Painting helps save pets

A recent exhibition at Berninneit by Indigenous artist Vegas Fitzmaurice has had an added bonus - helping save beloved pets of pensioners in crisis.

The exhibition "Millowl - A Mother's Element", ran at Berninneit from November 1 to December 6 last year, inspired by the island's landscapes and ocean, and the artist's late mother.

Vegas' work supports Pet Medical Crisis (PMC), a registered Public Benevolent Institution assisting pensioners struggling with the cost of living and loneliness, for whom their pets are vital.

The charity primarily supports pensioners who have no assets, rely solely on their Centrelink pensions and are renting. For these individuals, pets are essential to their wellbeing, social connection and protection against isolation.

As part of last year's exhibition, one painting was available to bid on, with all the auction proceeds donated to Pet Medical Crisis.

The auction was won by local resident Athea Iva for $3000, and was formally presented to her last week.

The presentation took place at Berninneit, with Vegas presenting "Horizon of Hope" to Anthea and her husband Brad, with the CEO of Pet Medical Crisis also attending.

The new owners of "Horizon of Hope" said the artwork would hold pride of place on Phillip Island for themselves and others to enjoy.

"Phillip Island, or Millowl, has been part of our lives for more than 40 years, so learning that 'Horizon of Hope' was inspired by the island and the artist's late mother immediately interested us," Anthea said.

"Being able to welcome a meaningful piece of Indigenous art into our lives, while helping make a real difference for families and their pets, makes it incredibly special."

Jennifer Hunt OAM, Founder and CEO of Pet Medical Crisis said "by keeping people and their pets together, we reduce suffering and distress for vulnerable owners, four-legged family members, vets and the community".

Ms Hunt said the money raised by the painting auction would directly assist four to five aged or disability pensioners who are renting and living fortnight to fortnight barely scraping through.

"By easing the strain from a crisis payment for veterinary care, they can still pay their rent, afford food and have their lifelines returned to health and back by their side to continue supporting their family," she said.

Since 2010, Pet Medical Crisis has provided more than $2.7 million in subsidised veterinary care and has helped more than 7500 families access life-saving treatment for pets who would otherwise continue to suffer, be economically euthanised or surrendered.

"The charity currently receives between 30 and 58 applications each week from desperate pensioners unable to afford veterinary care," said Ms Hunt.

Donations over $2 to Pet Medical Crisis are tax deductible and can be made via www.petmedicalcrisis.com.au