One Milton local is using her passions to do her part for Anzac Day.
Miltonian artist Sara Gillies, who owns business Round 2 Arts, is in her second year of creating Anzac-inspired art to sell and raise funds for the Milton Bruce RSA welfare fund.
Last year she made a donation of about $430 to the welfare fund and aims to achieve the same goal if not more this year.
Mrs Gillies is the welfare officer in Milton and has taken photos at each Anzac service for many years.
She said she ‘‘enjoyed’’ creating the art and making it had a deeper meaning than just creating it.
‘‘My husband Keith and I both have family members that have served before, so we feel a strong connection and I feel I can express that connection through the art,’’ Mrs Gillies said.
‘‘On 25 April 1915, the Australian and New Zealand army Corps known as the Anzacs landed in Gallipoli. Many never made it home. We appreciate the sacrifice made for us, so New Zealand can live in peace.’’
Her role as the welfare officer means she assists in supporting members, returned servicemen, Poppy Day appeals and more.
‘‘I’ve always been an artist, and the feeling of doing something that is so meaningful to so many people is heartwarming,’’ Mrs Gillies said.
‘‘This year I’ve had a theme of making Maori Battalion themed art, and next year I hope to include the navy as well.’’
The art is only sold for the month of April and she uses recycled items including taps and bowls for her artwork.
She is excited for Milton local Councillor Dean McCrostie to be the speaker at their service and Councillor Bruce Graham speaking at the Lovell’s Flat service, and said it was an honouring thing to do for the communities.
‘‘Anzac Day is getting stronger and stronger and people’s respect and acknowledgement for what was sacrificed for us. It’s lovely to see children, marking respect for a lost great-grandparent or family member,’’ Mrs Gillies said.
‘‘Truthfully, this day means a lot to me. It’s just as important to me as Christmas, if not more.’’
Mrs Gillies has a Facebook page Round 2 Arts to check out, or call her on 0272520345 for art inquiries.
