Mardi Orlando is the recent recipient of the East Gippsland Shire Council Arts and Literature Grant and enjoyed her own extensive exhibition for her contribution to the arts. Mardi studied psychology and teaching and continues to teach art and music to children of all ages. Mardi also contributes to the community with her work at the Gippsland Libraries – Storytime being a favourite. She lives in Lakes Entrance with her husband of 15 years.