Gallery shows its heritage

The Patonga Bakehouse Gallery is hosting an exhibition of paintings of two sisters, Willy and Maryke (nee Zwan) who came to Patonga from Holland in 1952 and with their father and brother Col Zwan, took over the Patonga Bakery.

The Patonga Bakery is now the Patonga Bakehouse Gallery.

"Willy married Charlie Peterson," artist Ms Joecelyn Maughan said.

"Their three sons Rick, PI and Brad all live and work in Patonga.

"Sadly, Willy died age 57 in 1996.

"Maryke married John Duell and later Hedley Pardoe but also died at the early age of 47 in Teimore in 1989.

"Both of these sisters, known for their exceptional good looks made a great contribution to the social life of Patonga and also as artists working in various media.

"Willy had a special interest in the aboriginal culture of Patonga (pre white man) and she worked with The Koori boys at Mt Penang.

"The 'Toggery' at Patonga was once owned by Charlie and Willy and, as well as a shop, it was Willy's studio.

"It is very appropriate that this exhibition is on display in the Toggery now, an extension of the Patonga Bakehouse Gallery and will remain on show until mid October."

Press release, September 15 Jocelyn and Robin, Patonga Bakehouse Gallery