Signed and delivered
PROSERPINE has earned its place on the map in more ways than one of late, and adding to that is the now signed portrait of seven Maroons players painted by local artist Jacinta Beatts.
Ms Beatts, founder of Whitsunday Regional Gallery, said when the gallery members heard of the Maroons' visit they wanted to help out.
"This is a community gallery," she said.
"We want to do our bit for the community and this is what we were able to do."
The artwork has now been donated to the Proserpine Whitsunday Junior Rugby League Club.
"I really just wanted to do something for the football club," Ms Beatts said.
"There was never any thought of it coming back to us once it was signed."
The painting proved a hit with townsfolk and Maroons players alike, even making an appearance on the NRL Footy Show.
Maroons heavy-hitter Sam Thaiday spoke to star playmaker Johnathan Thurston, remarking about his apparent endowment.
"Your package mate, what's doing?" Mr Thaiday quipped on the show.
"I've seen the nude calendar, but it's (definitely) not that big."
Mr Thurston replied with equal good humour.
"I've got a bit of chest hair there too mate, I like the chest," he said.
Ms Beatts said she got a good giggle out of Mr Thaiday's remarks.
"Now that was priceless," she laughed.
"That made my day."
