Mrs Whitham, who shares her time between Moulamein and Deniliquin, was awarded Edward River Council’s 2020 Art and Culture Award at the Australia Day ceremony on Sunday.
In 2019, she received the same award for the Murray River Council region.
It was in 2011 that Mrs Whitham discovered the power of art in helping to manage her own mental health and other health problems.
Years later she developed Art Relief, and started small by teaching art to school children in Moulamein.
Its popularity grow in the last half of 2018, resulting in 40 workshops being held in Deniliquin and Moulamein between August and December of 2018.
Adults and children alike are now enjoying the sessions.
Art Relief has created an art wellness platform for the drought affected farming community where there are limited resources and facilities available.
Mrs Whitham worked with art suppliers, seeking donations of time and materials to help support the mental health and wellbeing of families and friends that were struggling with the impacts.
In addition to her work with Art Relief, Narelle also volunteers once a fortnight with Deniliquin’s Riding for the Disabled Association.
She assists in a variety of ways, but predominantly as the committee’s photographer.
■ Anyone requiring crisis support can contact NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
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