Glenreagh Memorial Museum's Annual Art and Photo Exhibition

“Art is the most beautiful of all lies—it is a letter the soul writes to the world.” — Unknown

'Origins of Cedar and Steam'

In late 2006, a car full of enthusiastic historians was returning home after an inspiring museum chapter meeting in Yamba. During the drive, we were encouraged to think of ways to promote our museum to a wider audience. By the time we arrived back in Glenreagh, we had settled on a bold idea: to host an art exhibition.

We had no idea how to achieve this lofty goal and even considered running it alongside the newly established Timber Festival. But reality soon set in—we realized we couldn’t safely display artworks in a tent, especially given the weather and security challenges.

Glenreagh’s largest building, the School of Arts (known locally as the Glenreagh Hall), was chosen as the venue. And so, we muddled along and managed to hold our first exhibition in March 2007. Five categories of artistic expression were selected: Photography, Painting, Drawing, Fibre, and Sculpture. Primary schools from the Orara Valley and surrounding hinterland were also invited to participate, with school entries taking up a third of the Hall. Another third was dedicated to the general exhibition, while the remaining space was reserved for three accomplished guest artists.

The exhibition was eventually given its official name: Cedar and Steam. The red cedar trees were vital to the early development of our community, and the steam train was once a cherished means of transport to Dorrigo.

Each year, we feel a little less “muddled” as more people lend a hand. We’ve installed a gallery hanging system in the Hall, streamlined the running of the event, and received generous sponsorship and grants that allow us to offer prize money to winning entries.

Last year, for the first time, the exhibition raised money for the Museum—more than just breaking even.

Cedar and Steam has undoubtedly succeeded in its mission to bring attention to Glenreagh’s Museum and share our rich history with a wider audience.

🎨 18th Annual Cedar and Steam Art Exhibition 🚂
🗓️ 27th – 28th June 2025
📍 Glenreagh Hall (School of Arts)
2025 Theme: MAILBOXES 📬

Let your creativity deliver something special! This year’s Cedar and Steam celebrates the humble mailbox—symbol of connection, surprise, and everyday art.

🏆 PRIZES – Open Section:
• 1st Prize – $100 per category
• 2nd Prize – $50 per category

🧒 Youth Section:
• 1st Prize – $50 per category
• 2nd Prize – $25 per category

✨ NEW for 2025 – GRAND CHAMPION AWARDS!
• $200 – Open Section Grand Champion
• $100 – Youth Section Grand Champion
(Awarded to the standout work across all categories!)

So while the rain taps on the roof, grab a brush, a lens, some yarn, or a pencil—and start crafting your entry for one of the Orara Valley’s most loved community events.

📞 For entry forms are linked below and for any info please contact:
Wilma Towells – (02) 6649 2136
📧 Honi Reifler – honireifler51@gmail.com

Come be part of Cedar and Steam—where art, heritage, and heart come together.