President’s Report July 2025
Denise Keele-bedford
Since joining MSWPS almost twenty years ago, I’ve occasionally pondered the pronunciation of our benefactor’s name.
A recent visit to the home of Leo Brunier in Bendigo confirmed the correct pronunciation.
The Cohn family established a lemonade company in Bendigo in 1857 — this is Ola’s heritage.
Phonetically, the name was originally pronounced CON. However, over time, the family changed the pronunciation to CONE.
The MSWPS Bus Trip to celebrate 120 years since the first exhibition was rewarding.
We were hosted by Ola’s great-nephew Leo Brunier and his cousin Shelley. Shelley provided an in-depth insight into the life of the Cohn family and Ola’s contribution to the art world.
MSWPS members were delighted to receive copies of three publications by Ola. A set is now held in the archives and is accessible upon request.
Recently, the locked cupboards in the studio room at Ola Cohn House were opened by three committee members, and we discovered some wonderful gems.
With the upcoming Annual Exhibition, we will work with our archivists, Robyn and Helen, to create a display at the East Melbourne Library. Some of the items we found will be included in this display.
During the month, I received an email saying:
“I have so many email addresses for MSWPS, I don’t know which one to use.”
To clarify for everyone:
· The official email address for MSWPS is: info@mswps.com.au
(It is listed on the Contact page of the website and is the main address for all communications.)
· To send articles for The Bulletin, email: MSWPSbulletinnews@gmail.com
If you have a long list of MSWPS addresses saved, please take the time to delete any outdated ones. We are unable to do this on your behalf.
If you require a contact mobile, here is mine: 0408 599 423.
Due to some confusion and a late arrival during our recent bus trip, we are seeking permission from all members to record mobile numbers when attending scheduled events, such as bus trips.
We don’t want to leave anyone behind! Therefore, we request that you include your contact number when booking your place at future events.
Annual Exhibition entries open on 1 August. A notice is on the website and in The Bulletin.
I strongly advise that before this date, you check your access to the website portal, as you will enter your artworks via your portal. This is also a great opportunity to update your profile.
July Member Activities are designed to cater to a broader audience. We will have enjoyed camaraderie at the Winter Solstice Lunch on 3 July.
You have also received a notice to express your interest in attending the Australian Tapestry Workshop Guided Touron 25 July.
Mornington Peninsula members: please note that a casual Meet-Up for all members is on the calendar for Saturday, 26 July, from 11:00 AM – 1:30 PM at McClelland Gallery.
Bring yourself. Bring your friends. Come for coffee or stay for lunch. Meet and connect with other MSWPS members.
Email your interest to attend to: info@mswps.com.au
Please, include Casual Meet-Up in the subject line.
I look forward to catching up with you at any or all of these events.
Do you have a suggestion for a Member Meeting activity?
We are open to ideas — and remember, the 2026 calendar can be planned at any time.
To all our July-born members — Happy Birthday!