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All the artist winners of the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards Photo credit: Victoria Velton
Symone Welsh has won the 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards biggest prize for their outstanding piece, “Moon Whisperer”, which captivated judges with its creativity, technique and connection to Hinchinbrook’s birdlife.
More than 250 people gathered to celebrate Hinchinbrook Shire Council’s 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery on Friday night, 31 July 2026.
This event continues to celebrate the rich birdlife of the Hinchinbrook region through the eyes of talented artists from across Queensland and New South Wales. This year’s exhibition features 105 entries across a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media.
Community and Cultural Services Councillor Donna Marbelli said each piece showcases bird species found in Hinchinbrook, from the iconic TYTO Wetlands, home to more than 230 bird species, to the broader natural landscapes that inspire artists.
“The Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards are a wonderful celebration of both our region’s remarkable birdlife and the talented artists who bring it to life through their work,” Cr Marbelli said.
“The quality of this year’s exhibition was exceptional, and it was fantastic to see so many artists, visitors and community members come together to celebrate creativity, nature and community.”
“Congratulations to all entrants and award winners, and a heartfelt thank you to our sponsors and supporters who continue to make this event possible.”
The event is proudly supported by valued sponsors, each of whom has chosen a specific award category to sponsor.
Open Award – Symone Welsh: Moon Whisperer
Local Artist Award sponsored by Guidos Panel & Paint – Fran Nason: Jacana Wading
Youth Award sponsored by Bissons Electrical – Hamish Darveniza: Wompoo
Painting 2D – Reanna Emanouel: Remnants of an Ancient World
Watercolour sponsored by Nutrien Harcourts Ingham – Joanne Bingham: Can I help you?
Mixed Media – Megan Allford: Sahul Sunbird
Digital Media sponsored by COSCA – Norm Rains: Belle of the Bush
Works on Paper – Amy Venn: Celestial Magpie
Photography – Sharon Cislowski: Peekaboo
Ceramics – Sally Moroney: Rainbow Lorikeet Bowl
Sculptural Form sponsored by Sans Souci Apartments – Mark Bishop: A Sweeping Shadow
Cr Marbelli said Council was grateful to the sponsors and local businesses whose generous support helped bring the Birdlife Art Awards to life.
Voting for the People’s Choice Award sponsored by Ergon Energy Network will remain open until the close of the exhibition, with the winner of this category announced in September 2026.
To vote, please visit the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.
The 11th Hinchinbrook Birdlife Art Awards will be on display daily from 10.00am to 4.00pm until Saturday 29 August 2026.
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