Lauren Small graduated from BDC in 2001 after commencing in Year 7 and still remembers how some PE class used to be spent picking up rocks on the oval. 

After high school Lauren studied at the University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, being awarded a high distinction Diploma of Applied Science (Equine Studies). In 2003 she travelled around Australia for 12 months with her parents and 3 younger brothers (all BDC graduates) and shortly after returning from these travels suffered two major horse-riding accidents and a fractured spine which ended her career working with horses. After travelling to the UK and Ireland Lauren began focusing on her freelance illustration business, having had a passion for drawing and painting since childhood. 

She now runs a surface pattern design and handmade business under the label 'Thistle and Fox' and still creates freelance illustration work under the name 'Ginger Kelly' for various publishing projects around the world. Lauren lives in the Orara Valley and works part time as a vet nurse at Pacific Vetcare in Coramba and Coffs Harbour. 

You can find Lauren's artwork at Ginger Kelly Studio via www.artbygingerkelly.com and www.thistleandfox.com

Her huge portfolio of over 2000 fabric designs are used in handmade products by small businesses around Australia, the USA and Canada. 

She doesn't get much sleep.

Another BDC success – congratulations Lauren!