Mr Jarvis spent months painting 85 artworks depicting scenes from around Australia for his Life on the Land - Our Farming Heroes exhibition, which was officially opened by Greater Bendigo mayor, Margaret O'Rourke.

He said he drew inspiration for the initiative from his partner's daughter who was working on a farm near Lake Boga in northern Victoria.

"What's happening in the bush is really drastic at the moment, and it needs some help.

"The best way you can help is to do what you do."

If you can do that - each one of us, then that's what community is all about. It's about looking after your mates and making sure they're okay."

He said proceeds from the exhibition will be distributed via Rotary to affected communities throughout Australia.

Former Bendigo region MP and now Member for Nicholls Damian Drum paid tribute to Mr Jarvis and praised him for his community spirit and passion to put together such a substantial exhibition.

"Terry is a phenomenal person who I have know for a long time and and I have an enormous amount of respect for him and his work."

Matt Gollan from the Australian Horizons Foundation presented a cheque for $20,000 on opening night, and guests also heard from Lake Boga dairy farmer Sally Bethune about the hardships posed to the farming community during tough times.

More than 500 people viewed the exhibition across the weekend. Donations in support of Life on the Land - Our Farming Heroes and drought affected farming communities can still be made via the Bendigo Bank,

Donations can be made directly at BSB - 633 000 and account number 168 069 532.