Further to recent claims by ABC Radio celebrity artist Ian Campbell that Member for Bega Andrew Constance didn’t paint his own gnome, comes a counter-claim that Cr Taylor’s work should be closely examined.

While BDN editor Ben Smyth tries to remain an objective reporter – despite having clearly the best gnome of the bunch – there are questions that need answering ahead of this weekend’s Bega Show.

Questions like why is Cr Taylor’s gnome taking a different stance to those given to the rest of us?

Is there any truth to the rumour Cr Taylor “dropped” his first gnome in order to get a special second option?

Or who exactly leaked images of his painted garden statue to local media outlets?

These mysteries are in addition to the gnome and chicken who keep popping up at various locations around Bega, and the possibility of an eighth artist to be revealed only at the show this weekend.

GNOMES painted by eight “celebrity artists” will gather at the Bega Show in a quirky fundraiser for local volunteer organisations.

Garden gnomes have been painted and decorated by BDN editor Ben Smyth, ABC South East Radio’s Ian Campbell, Member for Bega Andrew Constance, Bega Valley Shire Mayor Bill Taylor, Bega Chamber of Commerce president Mal Barnes, River Cottage Australia host Paul West and entertainer Frankie J Holden.

There is also reportedly an eighth mystery artist.

Visitors to this weekend’s Far South Coast National Show can vote on their favourite gnome for a people’s choice award [Ed’s note: We all know which is best, don’t we valued readers?].

There will also be a silent auction running for the duration of the three-day Bega Show, culminating in public bidding prior to Sunday night’s demolition derby show finale.

All proceeds from the auction will be split between the Bega Valley Rural Fire Service and Volunteer Rescue Association.