IT was an emotional moment for many as the Saltbush Country exhibition opened in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, on Saturday, 10 August.

For Narungga women Lynette Newchurch, of Port Victoria, and her sister Deanna Newchurch, of Point Pearce, it was the first time their award-winning works had been displayed on Country.

Lynette and Deanna are two of seven First Nations artists involved in Saltbush Country, which is touring the state from 2024 to 2026.

The exhibition features a wide range of art styles, and one highlight is a genuine possum-skin coat created by Lynette and Deanna, the first of its kind to be produced using traditional methods in over 100 years. Lynette has also contributed intricate shell necklaces, while other pieces range from paintings to sculptures and textiles.

Speaking at the official opening, Lynette said it meant a lot to have her art displayed on Narungga Country.

She and Deanna were joined at the opening by Saltbush Country artists Heather Shearer, of Port Augusta, and Josephine Lennon, of Ceduna. Also in attendance were curator Marika Davies and Chief Executive Anthony Peluso from Country Arts SA, which presents the exhibition tour, along with a range of invited guests.

Yorke Peninsula Council contacted Country Arts SA to bring Saltbush Country to Yorke Peninsula after staff discussed the possibility with Lynette. It just so happened that the one month when Saltbush Country was still available in 2025 was August, when Council holds its Grounded YP Art Festival.

“At Yorke Peninsula Council we were determined to bring Saltbush Country to Guuranda (Yorke Peninsula),” Manager Economic Development Nick Perry said.

“We did not have any gallery spaces that would meet the requirements to house such an important and valuable collection, so we are incredibly thankful to Copper Coast Council, Copper Country Keepsakes, the Copper Coast Art Group and Country Arts SA for working with us so positively toward this great outcome.

“Saltbush Country is being exhibited locally as part of the Grounded YP Art Festival, a 10-day festival with over 50 events spread right throughout the region.

“I strongly encourage everyone to check out Saltbush Country in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, and also to get involved with the many events, concerts and workshops happening for Grounded YP Art Festival from 15-24 August.”

Saltbush Country is in the Ascot Gallery, Kadina, and is open to the public 10am to 3.30pm weekdays throughout August.

For more information about Saltbush and all other events happening for Grounded Yorke Peninsula Art Festival, visit www.ypart.com.au.