There’s a new gallery opening in Kempsey Shire with a spotlight on local artists

The “New Beginnings” exhibition will run from April 10 to May 8 at the Old Cheese Factory in Frederickton.

Author

Ellie Chamberlain
April 10, 2026

The Mid North Coast has a strong community art scene, from galleries to art prizes and festivals. Now, there’s a new space to add to the evergrowing list.

What’s happening: The BlackDuck Gallery, housed in the Old Cheese Factory in Frederickton near Kempsey, will open its doors with an exhibition on April 10 beginning at 7pm. 

Nine local artists will showcase various mediums from sculpture to painting and photography.

  • The New Beginnings exhibition includes artists Ali Haigh, Steve Williams, Michelle Pressley, Andy Snelgar, Elizabeth Mawhinney, Julie Slavin, Winston Walford, Dave Collins and Ross McClennan and will run until May 8.

Artwork by Dave Collins. Image supplied.

Who’s behind it: Owner Jody Duck says the gallery will showcase local, First Nations, emerging and established artists, and has hopes of hosting workshops, artist residencies and art prizes in the near future.

“I’d like the space to become a creative regional hub,” Duck told the Mid North Coaster.

  • For the past three decades, Duck has taught Art, digital and analogue photography at secondary schools, TAFE and university.

Thumbnail L-R BlackDuck studio space and artwork detail by Ali Haig. Images supplied Jody Duck