Noble efforts for breast cancer

Australind artist Judy Noble is using her talents to raise much-needed funds and awareness for a disease which affects one in nine women before the age of 85.

Mrs Noble has been using her artistic flair to raise money for breast cancer research for the past six years.

Two of her most recent donations were offered at a Breast Cancer Afternoon Tea in Gelorup, which raised $10,000 to help patients in the South West.

Abreast cancer battler herself, Noble started to donate her paintings, which include a range of watercolours, inks and pastels, before she was diagnosed.

After surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, Noble learnt first-hand of the great support that organisations such as the Cancer Council WA provide.

‘‘They were just so good to me, so it’s not an effort (to donate the paintings),’’ Mrs Noble said.

Noble, who has been painting for 25 years, is also a tutor at the Australind Art Club as well as at the Stirling Street Arts Centre.

During her time teaching, she spoke about her own experience with breast cancer which prompted some of the students in her class to get themselves checked.

‘‘It is really important to talk about it,’’ she said.

‘‘We all say it’s not going to be me.’’

Noble said painting helped her to relax and being part of the Australind Art Club had given her a great support network.

The Australind Art Club recently exhibited at Australind Shopping Centre.

Five per cent of all profits made from the sale of the paintings were donated to a local charity.