MILLICENT Arts and Crafts Group potters are a step closer to buying a new kiln thanks to a $1000 donation from South East Property Sales and Management.
“We have been fundraising for the past two years and we have also received donations from service clubs,” craft group secretary and potter representative Lyn Bowering said.
She said the group has also received donations from individuals.
The current kiln is estimated to be 24 years old, operating long past its expected 10-year lifespan.
Without a kiln working to its full capacity, the group struggles to raise funds as most of its club money comes from the sale of ceramics, vases and bowls.
The group also displays its work at events such as the Wattle Range Art Show and the Geltwood Festival.
As well as serving a practical purpose, Ms Bowering said the kiln provides community members with a unique social opportunity.
“We invite people with disabilities into the club to work with pottery and it acts as a creative outlet for them,” she said.
“We also host school kids in the holidays.
“We get people from all walks of life and so we also function as a sort of mental health group.”
South East Property Sales and Management donated the money through its Community Funnel, with money from every property sale going back into the community.
Along with the donation to the arts and group, donations have been made to the Millicent United Soccer Club to purchase a new freezer and Imagine Millicent art group to paint a mural on the Millicent Skate Park.
The Millicent Arts and Crafts Group still needs $7500 to replace the old kiln.
