By Sarah Myers

SOUTH Gippsland local, Olivia O’Connor, is known for her handmade rocking horses, antique rocking horse restoration, and wood carving skills. This winter, she has been working on a special project for the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA). 

Olivia was recognised by ALIA for her beautiful wood-carving work and asked to design and make a perpetual trophy for the upcoming Victorian Library and Information Award. This award was presented for the first time on August 22 of this year. The award aims to recognise ‘Excellence in Victoria’s library and information sector’ through leadership, sustainable innovation, and significant contributions to the field. 

Olivia says she was flattered to be offered this commission and relates the experience as a ‘once in a career’ opportunity. 

Carved from Huon pine, given to Olivia by another South Gippsland artist, the trophy features Victoria’s fauna and flora emblems, the Leadbeater’s Possum and Common Pink Heath. Two weeks of hard work have seen Olivia produce a spectacular final product that reflects the natural wildlife of our state and the efforts of individuals within the library sector, as well as Olivia’s own love of animal carving and woodcraft.