General News
17 August, 2026
Exhibit makes waves
BINGIL Bay Café was overflowing with locals and art lovers as Far North Queensland artist Ebb Harper launched her debut ‘Daughter of the Drift’ solo exhibition, a night filled with live music, coastal nostalgia and a packed crowd celebrating one of the region’s most distinctive creative voices.
The 31 July opening, hailed as a roaring success, featured live music by Stui Harcourt and the largest exhibition ever hosted at the venue.
Ms Harper’s collection showcased original works inspired by captains, vintage fishing lures, navigation, weathered typography, worn timber and nostalgic coastal symbols.
Many pieces featured layered textures, stitched details and aged surfaces, giving them the feel of discovered artefacts and inviting viewers to imagine their own stories.
Ms Harper said she was overwhelmed by the turnout.
“It was such an incredible night and I’m still lost for words. The venue was jam packed, the music was incredible and the door prize was won by a local lady, Madonna, who was so excited. She’s never seen whales before, so now she can experience it,” she said.
The exhibition struck a deep chord with coastal locals, with comments flowing in throughout the night and the following day: “It’s history on the walls.”
“Bingil Bay Café is perfect for this.”
“It suits the café so much as it all works together.”
“It reminds me of the early days of North Mission.”
“Sign me up for all future exhibitions.”
The strong response made it clear that Ms Harper’s work resonates closely with people who live by and love the coast.
Ms Harper expressed gratitude to local artist and curator Bernard KC, whose encouragement and passion for supporting emerging artists helped bring the exhibition to life.
His commitment to creating opportunities and authentic connections within the community played a key role in giving Ms Harper the confidence to share this body of work.
Bingil Bay Café owners Geoff and Donna Spratling have created far more than a café, they have built a vibrant community hub where local and regional artists, musicians, artisans, poets and makers are encouraged to share their talents and connect with others.
As parents of four and passionate supporters of the arts, their commitment to fostering creativity in the region is widely admired through the region.
Their support for local arts is extraordinary.
Through regular exhibitions, Poets’ Corner, weekly live music, Makers Markets, and pottery and weaving workshops, the Spratlings have established a welcoming space where creativity can flourish, and community spirit thrives.
From now through to December, the café will host a series of monthly solo exhibitions, including ‘Brushstrokes and Verses’, ‘Tropical Jen’ and several more exciting events still to be announced.
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