2026 Finalists

Entries are shown in year group categories, ordered alphabetically by artist’s first name.
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Years 7/8

Charlotte

Wiradjuri

Wiradjuri Dreaming
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
My painting reflects the spirit of Wiradjuri Country at night, surrounded by stars and flowing pathways. Emus and goannas travel across the land while groups of people move together, gathering to share stories, culture, and connection. The patterns and tracks symbolise journeys, community, and the strong bond between people, animals, and Country.

Filled with movement and life, this work captures the interconnection of land, creature and ceremony with beautiful technique and use of colour. The work encompasses both the scale of Country and a sense of ‘the whole’ sitting within the infinite vastness of the night sky.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

I feel like I’m looking into the stars, well done!

Mr Tom Venning MP

Ellcie

Wakka Wakka

Lyrebird
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
My Aboriginal-inspired artwork of Wiritjiribin or Wiridjiribin (Lyrebird) was created by using native local Mahram (Bottlebrush) leaves as feathers to show a strong connection between nature, animals, and the land. I used my creativity to transform ordinary leaves into the lyrebird’s flowing tail, carefully layering different shapes, colours, and textures to make the bird look alive and full of movement. The natural patterns on the leaves reminded me of traditional Aboriginal art styles that celebrate the environment and storytelling. I wanted the artwork to represent harmony with nature, so every leaf was chosen to reflect the beauty of the bush and the uniqueness of the lyrebird. By combining natural materials with imaginative design, I created an artwork that is both meaningful and visually powerful.

Beautifully balanced and visually wonderful, the layering of different materials with paint has created interesting textures, and depth of meaning. The composition of patterns, and use of natural materials not only matches a lyrebird’s majestic tale, but it also shows the inter-connection between animal and environment.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

You’ve done a great job capturing the beauty of the lyrebird.

Mr Tom Venning MP

Hailah

Wambaya

My connection to Country
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
This artwork shows my personal journey through life on Country. I’m represented in the middle by my handprint proudly displaying the Aboriginal flag. 2 Galahs can be seen as a symbol of loyalty and to represent the animals of the sky. An Echidna can be seen as a symbol of resilience and representing the animals of the land. A turtle can be seen as a symbol of protection and creation and representing the animals of the sea. Symbols in the background include waterholes, rocks, stars, animal tracks, hills, mountain, valleys, rivers, tribes connecting, meeting circles and people. These are all the things I see when I’m on Country. My family and I enjoy travelling, bushwalking and hiking and these help me have a deep connection and respect for Country. It allows me to see the land through a different perspective without buildings just all natural areas. Indigenous people have cared for Country for thousands of years and have managed to be self sufficient and resourceful only taking what’s needed and moving on to different areas. I try to do the same by not littering, being kind and respectful to animals and insects and being aware of the impact this will have for future generations. Country and connection go hand in hand and I feel most relaxed, calm and inspired when I’m on Country. I’m so proud to be me and part of the longest surviving, continuing culture in the world.

A thoughtful, powerful piece that flows through careful design, use of colour and line – it is busting with energy and a strong sense of belonging. The work feels alive, imbued with meaning and memories and connection to land and sky… personal and powerful.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

Amazing detail and colours. I enjoyed reading your journey and seeing it come to life in your artwork.

Mr Tom Venning MP

2026 Years 7/8 Winner

Jaide

Kalkadoon Country – Mount Isa area

Ajarku Muruu – All One Country
Artwork
Theme: Reconciliation

Description
My name is Jaide, I’m a proud Kalkadoon girl and a contemporary Indigenous artist. This painting tells the story of reconciliation and how we are all part of One Country even though we all come from different places and backgrounds.

The large community symbol in the centre of my painting represents Australia and all Australians coming together. I painted it in blue to represent the Australian flag and placed the Southern Cross in the middle to show that we are all united under the same stars. Around it are lots of different coloured people and people symbols to represent the many cultures, nationalities and communities that make up our country.

The four community symbols around the painting represent the different landscapes and places that people call home all across Australia. The green community symbol represents the rainforest and bush, which is surrounded by leaves and flowers. The blue community symbol represents the islands and coasts, it is surrounded by lines and waterholes representing the ocean. The red community symbol represents the desert and outback, with red mountains around it. Lastly the aqua community symbol represents the rivers and waterways that flow through Country. All of these places are connected to the centre by travelling lines, showing people travelling from their own communities and coming together as one.

The kangaroo and emu represent Australia’s coat of arms, with their footprints symbolising us always moving forwards towards reconciliation and never backwards. The people footprints leading towards the centre represent each person’s own journey through life and the path we all walk together.

The handprints represent our connection to Country, community and each other. The sun at the top of the painting represents hope and the brighter future we can create together through reconciliation, respect and unity.

Tremendously vibrant work is expansive, radiant and shining with humanity, unity and belonging. Depicting many peoples and pathways coming together using incredible colour and pattern, there is a powerful sense of hope, pride and togetherness under the Southern Cross. Rich with shared identity and a true celebration of reconciliation.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

Thank you for sharing your story of reconciliation so beautifully.

Mr Tom Venning MP

Years 9/10

Chanae

Gugu Yimithirr

Bubu (land)
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
The image painted shows two Cockatoos, which are the two main totems at home—one of which is mine. The white cockatoo. Both black and white both mean different things but they make up my community, Hope Vale. I painted them flying amongst the ocean which meets Elim beach; a main part of my community’s identity and history. It also highlights my connection to the beach as growing up it was a main part of my childhood, fishing, hanging out with family or even going down just for the weekend.

The image represents the two birds as people (having they are the two main totems of home) showing how we used the ocean for centuries—either for food, connection or celebration. The turtle represents our traditional food source but also as an animal of harmony. Showing the clear connection between survival and balance. The sunset highlights the underlying beauty of the beach alone while having the coloured sands in the back, a main attraction but also natural wonder of my home.

An ambitious composition, full of energy and a sense of wonder. The use of colour – from the expressive pink sky to the cool blue waters – creates warmth and interest. Playful use of scale and perspective shows courage to experiment with different ideas, and the small ecosystem pictured speaks to the theme of connection between species and the land.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

Your community ‘Hope Vale’ looks beautiful, well done!

Mr Tom Venning MP

2026 Years 9/10 Winner

Charlotte

Wiradjuri/Australia

Roots of Connection
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
My art expresses the valuable relationship between people and their connection to Country. These important relationships create a strong sense of identity, belonging, and individuality. The tree can be perceived as a human standing firm and tall on the land, whereas the dotted lines represent roots, which grow through the whole of Country. The roots keep the tree stable and give it strength, much like how the roots of our ancestors help us grow and guide us. I intentionally made the roots visible above the ground since this connection should not be buried, it should be shown with pride for all to see. The dotted pathways express travels and stories, and demonstrates that connection runs far and deep through the land.

The sun represents life, warmth, hope, and guidance, as though the sun is watching over and showing protection. I used bright yellow and orange colours to create a feeling of warmth and strength, demonstrating the comfort and healing that can come from connection to Country and community. The sun also represents the passing of knowledge and stories from older generations to younger generations, like light being shared across the land.

Through this artwork, I wanted to express that Country is more than just land. It holds spirit, history, stories, and identity, similar to how the roots of a tree run deep beneath the Earth. The connection between people and Country continues to support, guide, and strengthen future generations.

Does the tree represent people or a place? Perhaps both. A strikingly elegant work beautifully expressing time, strength, Country and identity. The glowing sun draws us into the full emotion of the work, with the roots reminding us we are grounded by story and place. A restrained use of colour communicates profound ideas with clarity. A quiet, powerful piece.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

A visually striking and colourful picture, well done!

Mr Tom Venning MP

Maverick

Wiradjuri

For The Future
Artwork
Theme: Identity and Culture

Description
As an Indigenous man, my identity is shaped through experiences, traditions and stories that teach me what it’s like to be Aboriginal. This piece of art is called ‘For The Future’.

Hi, my name is Maverick, I’m a proud Wiradjuri boy from Dubbo. My culture means everything to me and having a culture with such significance is great. My artwork not only represents my culture but it represents who I am as a person. I named my artwork this because I am the next generation of the Indigenous population and this artwork portrays what it looks like in my eyes as an Aboriginal boy.

My artwork is called ‘For The Future’ and is a self portrait that has many meanings. This is portrayed through the symbols I used. The first symbol I used is the gum tree plant. I chose this plant as it is native to Australia and represents the country I live in and the land I’m on. It also represents being resilient, as the gum tree is known for survival and resilience during harsh conditions and tough terrain. The gum tree also is known throughout Aboriginal culture to be a sacred medicine, food and materials for tools, relating back to my culture. The next symbol I used is the ochre across my face. The self portrait is related to a photo taken at a corroboree I did in the previous years. This is a symbol of culture and identity through the ochre spread across my face. Ochre connects one to the land, ancestors and the dreaming. It is part of the identity shown throughout Indigenous culture and is a trademark in Aboriginal ceremonies. Another symbol is the footy posts. This represents my personal hobbies and what I enjoy doing. What I’ve learnt from Rugby League is that pushing yourself that little bit more can help you in the long run. It has taught me to never give up and just do a little bit better than the day before. It has taught me teamwork, and has shown me how to be a leader, use my voice and help others. My last symbol is the quote. As a nation, no matter what colour, race or ethnicity you are, we can’t sit and dwell on the past. As we are all humans, we can push together, work together and become one despite our differences and flaws. If we let the past control our lives we won’t be able to move forward as one.

Thoughtful, courageous self-portrait that weaves personal story with traditional symbolism shown combining native flora and ochre alongside sport. The work feels intimate as well as out-ward looking, expressing pride in culture, and imagining a future of hope, strength and optimism. A clear voice and sense of self, make this a deeply personal, resonant work.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

A thoughtful artwork showing pride in your culture, well done!

Mr Tom Venning MP

Ruby

Wiradjuri/Dharug

Yandhai Dreaming
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
Yandhai Dreaming is a representation of the vibrant, Nepean (Yandhai) river and its local Dharug and Dharawal flora and fauna, rich in symbolism and cultural significance. Yandhai also means “to walk in the past and present”.

Depictions of our circular ancestors guiding us in spirit, community and connection, U shaped symbols of people and children gathered around the campsites telling stories and passing on traditional knowledge.

Tracks of the local totems the four clawed brushtail possum representing resilience and adaptability and the symbol of peace and reconciliation the lyrebird celebrate the relationship between indigenous people and the land.

The bush Tucker reminds us to only take what we need and the beautiful Banksia and Billy buttons give us sweet things to look forward to.

A captivating work beautifully honouring Country, culture and continuity. Full of vibrant, intricate detail, the work invites us to look closely at each element, that when combined, shows us a bigger narrative of connection, and belonging. The use of colour and depiction of totems, gathering places, and food, demonstrates skilful and thoughtful storytelling – this ancient river, moving through time.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

A vibrant and meaningful reflection of Yandhai Dreaming.

Mr Tom Venning MP

Years 11/12

Audrey

Gamilaroi, Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung

Riverbank
Artwork
Theme: Country and Connection

Description
This artwork represents the deep spiritual connection and interdependent relationship between Aboriginal peoples, the land, waterways and animals of Country. The animal tracks represent the important cultural responsibility that Aboriginal peoples carry to care for the land and all of its inhabitants, viewing themselves not as more important than any other living thing, but as equals who are part of an ecosystem of life where every part is valued as much as any other.

As people fish and hunt to feed their community, they make sure to only take what they need to thrive in order to sustain the health and resources of the land. The story centres around this circular balance and harmony between people and nature – a way of living that respects our intrinsic interconnectedness with, and responsibility to, all things.

A beautifully balanced, elegant work that feels timeless and is deeply moving. Flowing waterways and circular forms creating rhythms and interconnectedness. The careful choice of colours reinforces the ideas of balance, sustainability, and shared responsibility. This artist expresses with clarity and grace their profound understanding of reciprocity in nature.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

Great use of colour and portrayal of connection between people, land, animals and waterways.

Mr Tom Venning MP

Larni

Wiradjuri

Generations
Artwork
Theme: Identity and Culture

Description
This artwork explores how traditional Indigenous art has evolved over generations. The snake is 3D made from natural clay. This artwork shows memories from past storytelling from an elder. This shows my identity as an young Aboriginal woman, being able to share and connect my story and beliefs through art.

A striking, imaginative work that pushes together tradition and contemporary expression, with the 3D clay snake adding wonderful dimension, presence and texture to the work. Rich with symbolism, this work feels confident, and thoughtful as the artist expresses their connection to Elders and Country, plus hope and pride and commitment to carrying forward cultural traditions in her own distinctive way.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

That snake is amazing! Very creative and colourful.

Mr Tom Venning MP

2026 Years 11/12 Winner

Lyla

Gumbaynggir

My Family
Artwork
Theme: Family and Community

Description
My family Coolamon (dhiyaan bin.guwi) portrays my mother and her children. She is the centre because in my eyes, she is the centre of the world, followed by my siblings from oldest to youngest being the last colour of the artwork. I remember when I was finding something to weave, I had no idea what to do or what gave me meaning in life. It took me around two weeks to figure out that the artwork was in my everyday life, my family. When this came to me, there was an instant relief because my family means a lot to me, and I knew I would keep this Coolamon for a very long time. I sat down and planned out how I was going to represent my family. Once I figured it out, I could use natural raffia for the base and paper raffia to represent each member of my family. There were no set colours for each member, but I focused on how each colour meets with the next, showing a connection. After completing the family Coolamon, I found a true meaning in it, symbolising the connection we will have even from afar and the protection my mum will provide.

A deeply personal and beautifully made work that transforms weaving into a story of love, protection and belonging. The wonderful choices of colour and form to represent family connection is beautifully crafted and moving, given a handmade Coolamon carries such deep, emotional meaning. The symbolism of the mother at the centre creates a touching focal point, expressing care, strength, and continuity. This is a heartfelt artwork that honours family as both anchor and home.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

I like the journey you went on to create this beautiful artwork representing your family.

Mr Tom Venning MP

Shontae

Whadjuk, Perth Western Australia

Moort Boodja Kaartdijin. Family/Community and Knowledge
Artwork
Theme: Family and Community

Description
Our community represents our Family — the people around us here in Baldivis who share our cultural roots and walk this journey with us. Over time, we’ve built something broad, bright, and deeply connected.

The future ahead of us is full of possibility. We’ve come so far from where we began — from having limited support, limited teachers, and limited spaces to learn about our culture, to now having opportunities, guidance, and a safe environment where we can come together and grow.

There is still more work to do. More growing, more expanding, and more supporting those around us. But with the right guidance and the strength of our community, we will continue to rise.

We must always be proud of who we are, where we come from, and what makes us unique. A strong community and a strong environment help us stay connected. When you find yourself, you find your people — and through that connection, we all become stronger.

An uplifting work that beautifully celebrates community, cultural identity, and collective strength. The intricate patterning and radiant use of colour to create a sense of energy, movement, and connection. This is a picture celebrating community and feels grounded, pointing towards a confident future. The layered composition show people, stories, and pathways coming together to form something larger and stronger together. Especially moving is the artwork’s sense of optimism-honouring the progress made while understanding the journey is still ahead.

Ms Kate Chaney MP

A vibrant celebration of your family and community, well done!

Mr Tom Venning MP

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