The latest donation is proceeds from the Browne Gallery opening that attracted a big crowd of 150 people. Fundraising co-ordinator Fitz McKay said quotes were being sought for the installation of the new carpets.

“The Brownes offered proceeds from the opening to go to a charity, so we thank Peter and Amalia for their generosity as well as a wonderful opening night,” Mrs McKay said.

“The very kind one-off donation adds to the funds raised from the highly successful open garden day, with artist Jude Fleming also offering a percentage from paintings sold.

“Thanks also to my co-organiser Melissa Irving who also produced the brochures for the event.”

The Brownes gave Mrs McKay and Pauline Meers gifts of Tilleys Red-Bellied Black Merlot wine and Lindt chocolates for manning the door at the gallery opening.

They are already planning their next event, with ‘Atelier Des Nus’ scheduled for the beginning of August. Mr Browne is also set to take a brush to another project with a trademark Volkswagen his latest canvas. He said the ‘62 ½’ model VW sourced from Lightning Ridge was also donated.

“Billy Langby has been great; he organised a trailer and brought the car back and prepared it by bogging up the dents, making running boards, putting a motor back in, and painting the duco white. We normally have to do all that.

“The painted VWs are a fun way for people to enjoy artwork, so a big thank you to Bill.”

According to Mr Browne, “If you want something in this town, it happens.”