Deb exhibition displays tradition

WIMMERA Mallee residents had an opportunity to step back in time at the weekend when Hopetoun hosted a unique exhibition depicting the history of the region’s debutante balls.

The collection featured photographs, ball gowns and other memorabilia dating back to the 1940s.

The exhibition was a labour of love for Susan Hogan (nee Thomas) who started working on the project in 2012.

“As a kid I was fascinated with mum’s deb ball photo,” Ms Hogan said.

It was her love of dancing, combined with fond memories of attending kitchen teas which encouraged her to divulge a little deeper into the history of debutante balls and the role they have played within rural communities.

When Ms Hogan set about her project she had a clear vision in mind.

“I wanted to take this local debutante history and make it relevant to today by identifying the people, the times and making this history accessible through a variety of mediums,” she said.

“I wanted to take the photos and paraphernalia out of the mothballs.”

Coinciding with the Women on Farms 2016 gathering at the weekend, Ms Hogan turned her vision into a reality, showcasing her exhibition for the first time.

For more on this story, pick up a copy of Monday’s Guardian (March 28, 2016).