The R & M McGivern Prize was named after Reg and Muriel McGivern and is one of Australia’s most prestigious art prizes, with the winning entry receiving $15,000 and included within Maroonah’s Art Collection.

Muriel, who lived in Maroondah since her birth, established the prize when she passed away on the 29th of January 2000. Muriel was born on the 1st of October 1904 and attended the Ringwood State School, in what is now Maroondah Federation Estate and Art Gallery. Muriel studied writing, drawing and cooking at Swinburne College and while she desired to become an artist her parents dissuaded her and she chose instead a career as a fashion designer. Muriel founded the Croydon Historical Society and Museum in 1963 and had a passion for the arts and local history.

The prize is awarded every three years, with a theme chosen by judges who assess the entries. This year’s theme was ‘I paint because…’ and encouraged a breadth of talent, as well as an insight into the creative process.

This year the Prize received almost 300 entries, demonstrating the prominence of the prize and the lasting gesture of Muriel McGivern’s commitment to both the community and the arts.