2026 Brigalow Arts Festival Award Winners Announced
Published on 21 October 2026
The Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery came alive with creativity, celebration and community spirit as artists, sponsors, volunteers and art enthusiasts gathered for the official opening of the 2026 Brigalow Arts Festival, marking the festival's significant 30th anniversary.
One of Banana Shire's most anticipated annual cultural events, the festival continues to showcase outstanding artistic talent while providing opportunities for artists of all experience levels to exhibit their work, connect with audiences and celebrate the arts.
This year's exhibition attracted 107 artists and 166 entries from more than 35 towns and suburbs across Queensland and interstate, showcasing an impressive range of artistic talent across painting, drawing, photography, digital media, sculpture and mixed media.
Banana Shire Mayor Nev Ferrier said reaching the 30-year milestone was a remarkable achievement for the festival and the community.
"Thirty years on, what stands out most is how the festival continues to evolve while staying true to its purpose of supporting artists and building community through creativity," Mayor Ferrier said.
"To see works arriving from across Queensland and interstate, alongside entries from local artists exhibiting for the very first time, is a reminder of just how special the Brigalow Arts Festival has become."
"The festival creates opportunities for artists to showcase their work, learn from experienced practitioners and connect with fellow creatives, while giving our community the chance to experience an extraordinary range of artistic talent."
The exhibition was judged by acclaimed artists Sabrina-Rose Toby and Kathryn Neilsen, who praised the exceptional standard of entries and the diversity of work on display.
Speaking at the official opening, Ms Toby reflected on the importance of regional arts events in nurturing creativity, supporting artists and bringing communities together through a shared appreciation of the arts.
"Thirty years is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the artists, organisers, volunteers and community members who have supported this festival over the years," Ms Toby said.
"As an artist myself, I understand the time, dedication and courage that goes into creating something and putting it out into the world for others to experience. Exhibitions like this are so important in recognising, encouraging and celebrating the incredible creative talent we have throughout our regions."
Ms Neilsen said the quality of entries made judging a challenging task, with artists demonstrating strong technical skills, professional presentation and creative vision across all categories.
"It really was hard to judge such a high level of work," she said.
The festival's highest honour, the Brigalow Art Award, was awarded to Carmen Beezley-Drake for Lilies in the Swamp.
The judges described the work as a captivating interpretation of the wetlands, praising its beautiful composition, soft pastel tones and dreamlike atmosphere.
"There is a real sense of atmosphere in this piece. It invites you to pause, look a little closer and immerse yourself in the landscape."
The artwork also received the QNP Acquisition Award, making it one of the standout works of the exhibition.
Other major award winners included:
• Banana Shire Council Acquisition Award – Paula Blundell, In Tandem
• Moore Australia Acquisition Award – Elena Churilova, Hurry to Live
• Emerging Artist Award – Sally North, Fragments of Flight – Where to Now
• Local Artist Award – Sarah Larsen, The River Flows
• Movement Theme Award – Denis Harrold, Egrets Fishing, Black Duck Creek
• Youth Brigalow Art Award – Mia Clapham, Hooked
• Youth Encouragement Award – Dakota Gaw, Life in a Basket
Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery Coordinator Katrina Elliott said the festival's 30th year had been a fitting celebration of the creative talent found throughout the region and beyond.
"The response to this year's festival has been fantastic," Ms Elliott said.
"The quality and diversity of entries on display has been exceptional, and it has been wonderful to see artists from across Queensland and interstate exhibiting alongside local artists and first-time entrants."
"Our judges were incredibly generous in sharing their knowledge and experience with artists throughout the festival."
"The Judges' Floor Talk was a real highlight, providing artists with practical advice and insights into the judging process. From discussing artistic concepts and presentation through to framing, materials and technical execution, the session gave artists a valuable understanding of what judges look for when assessing artworks."
"The sold-out weaving workshop with Sabrina-Rose Toby and the strong attendance across festival events demonstrate the enthusiasm for arts and creative learning opportunities within our region."
"One of the most rewarding aspects of the Brigalow Arts Festival is seeing artists connect with one another, share experiences and build confidence in their creative practice. It's those connections, alongside the exceptional artwork on display, that have helped the festival thrive for 30 years and made this anniversary year so special."
Banana Shire Council extends its congratulations to all award winners and exhibitors and thanks the judges, sponsors, volunteers and community members whose ongoing support continues to make the Brigalow Arts Festival a highlight of the regional arts calendar.
The 2026 Brigalow Arts Festival exhibition remains open to the public at the Banana Shire Regional Art Gallery until 11 December 2026, with visitors encouraged to view the award-winning works and cast their vote in the People's Choice Award.
Major Award Winners
Brigalow Art Award Carmen Beezley-Drake, Lilies in the Swamp
Banana Shire Council Acquisition Award Paula Blundell, In Tandem
Moore Australia Acquisition Award Elena Churilova, Hurry to Live
QNP Acquisition Award Carmen Beezley-Drake, Lilies in the Swamp
Local Artist Award Sarah Larsen, The River Flows
Emerging Artist Award Sally North, Fragments of Flight - Where to Now
Movement Theme Award Denis Harrold, Egrets Fishing, Black Duck Creek
Youth Brigalow Art Award Mia Clapham, Hooked
Youth Encouragement Award Dakota Gaw, Life in a Basket
Category 1 - Burnie Smith Memorial
2D Works on Paper-Based Supports
First Place Ping Carlyon, Bloom in Motion
Second Place Rose Knight, Scribbly Secrets
Category 2 - Easel Works
2D Works on Non Paper-Based Supports
First Place Joanne Kerr, The Lost Ball
Second Place Tracey Hewitt, Balcony Bird
Category 3 - Photography and Digital Works
First Place James Mergard, Banana Sunset
Second Place Lyn Eather, More than Meets the Eye
Category 4 - 3D Works
First Place Simon Locke, The Golden Thread
Second Place Carol Forster, Ocean, Earth & Fire
Category 5 - Youth Photography
First Place Courtney Krafft, Naturally Manmade
Second Place Alexis Lower, The Creek's Quiet Journey
Category 6 - Youth Open (Senior)
First Place Zaylee Wilkinson, Intertwined
Second Place Avaih Pratt, A Blossoming Family
Category 7 - Youth Open (Junior)
First Place Harlan Graham, Soaring Bird
Second Place Hannah Brough, Tidal