Again the Coventry Room of the Parkes Shire Library and Cultural Centre will be the venue for the weekend event.

Opening night is Friday, May 2, with the exhibition also open to the public on Saturday and Sunday May 3 and 4 between the hours of 10am and 4pm.

Guest artist is former Parkes resident Julie Hamilton, who all locals will recall as being one of the town’s best artists.

Her work is very popular and Parkes Painting Group members are keen to see what she will have on display this year.

This year’s theme is Australian Flora and Fauna.

With this in mind, members invited Reverend Brian Schmalkuche to officially open the exhibition.

“With his great knowledge of our flora, Rev Brian should prove to be a popular guest speaker during the official opening which will commence at 7.30pm,” Mrs Helen Huntly (Parkes Painting Group member) said.

“Join us at the opening where refreshments and nibbles will be served.”

Admission on opening night is $5 and $2 on Saturday and Sunday.

Mrs Huntly said the Coventry Room will be decorated with Australian flora from Greenparkes Nursery.

“This year we will be donating our proceeds to that wonderful group of pilots who are called Angel Flight.

“They operate from Queensland but fly people and medication all over Australia.

“Angel Flight depends on donations and we are looking forward to being able to hand-over this year’s profits to such a wonderful cause.”

Patrons will also be able to purchase tickets in the raffle where the first prize is dinner for two at one of Parkes newest restaurants IKon at Gracelands, value at $100.

A popular choice competition will again run throughout the three-day exhibition.

This is the 12th consecutive exhibition for the Parkes Painting Group which boasts 22 members.

“New members are always welcome to attend our Wednesday mornings in the club house at Northparkes Oval,” Mrs Huntly said.