Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A striking depiction of one of Australia’s most iconic birds earned Cairns-based artist Kevin Young the top honour in the Open category at the 2025 Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards.
His winning piece, Brolga, captured judges’ attention with its intricate detail and lifelike realism, reflecting a deep connection to the natural world.
“Nature is my main source of inspiration,” he said.
“I am particularly drawn to Australian wildlife and landscapes, and I enjoy capturing the character and detail of animals through careful observation.”
Born in South Africa, Mr Young moved to Australia in 1971 and his journey to recognition has been anything but conventional. Before dedicating more time to his art, he worked as a sail maker, balancing creativity with the demands of everyday life.
“In more recent years, after experiencing some health challenges, I made the decision to slow down and refocus on the things that truly matter to me,” he enthused.
“Creativity has always remained important to me and art stayed with me as a personal passion. Returning to drawing and painting became an important part of that process. Art has allowed me to reconnect with creativity, patience and the natural world.”
A self-taught realism artist, Mr Young works primarily with graphite, often combined with watercolour, to capture the fine detail and character of Australian wildlife.
“One of the things I value most about creating art is the opportunity to share moments from the natural environment with others,” he explained.
“Whether it is a bird, reptile or landscape, I enjoy the challenge of translating what I see into a piece that invites the viewer to pause and appreciate the subject.”
His work has been exhibited in galleries across the country and internationally, but he says the most rewarding aspect of art is sharing the beauty of the natural environment with others.
“Creating art has become both a passion and a deeply rewarding pursuit,” he said.
“I want my audience to see nature as I do, then be inspired to protect her as they would their own child.”
With Brolga now an award-winning piece, Mr Young continues to build a reputation for work that not only showcases artistic skill but also encourages appreciation and protection of the natural world.
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes. Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Life Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Life Publishing Group Ltd.
