Entertainment
20 September, 2026
Record-breaking art show
MISSION Arts marked a major milestone, celebrating its 15th Anniversary Awards Exhibition with a record breaking 107 entries and an impressive 189 guests filling the gallery for an evening of art, music and community spirit.
MISSION Arts marked a major milestone, celebrating its 15th Anniversary Awards Exhibition with a record breaking 107 entries and an impressive 189 guests filling the gallery for an evening of art, music and community spirit.
It was the organisation’s biggest opening night yet, a vibrant testament to how deeply Mission Arts has become woven into the cultural life of the Cassowary Coast.
Guests enjoyed listening to live jazz and blues from touring duo Out of Abingdon, along with raffles, a 100 club, lucky door prizes, bar service and a generous spread of sweet and savoury treats prepared by Mission Arts volunteers. The atmosphere was warm, lively and unmistakably celebratory.
Since opening in 2011, Mission Arts has championed local and regional artists and this year’s exhibition highlighted that commitment more than ever.
With a remarkable 98 artists represented, which included 44 emerging artists, this highlights the depth of creativity flourishing across the region.
Esteemed judge Alison McDonald presented the prestigious judge’s choice ward to Sarah Diessel for her evocative painting ‘Where Rivers Remember,’ adding further prestige to an exhibition already brimming with talent.
Mission Arts communications coordinator Diana Dade said the night was a standout success.
“Showcasing a record-breaking number of original artworks by talented local and regional artists made this year’s opening truly special,” she said.
“We are especially pleased with the quantity and quality of child, youth and emerging artist entries.
“With 17 children’s entries and 14 youth entries, the gallery is absolutely brimming with colourful, imaginative and intriguing artworks.
“It is wonderful to see these young artists seizing the opportunity to have their creativity on display in a gallery setting.”
Judge’s Choice winner Sarah Diessel said she was “incredibly thrilled” to receive the top award.
“A huge thank you to the judges, sponsors, volunteers and everyone at Mission Arts who made the exhibition possible. I am feeling incredibly grateful and still a little shocked.”
Photographer Susan Kelly echoed the sentiment, describing the night as “a wonderful celebration” filled with art, conversation and a powerful sense of community.
Award winners:
Judge’s Choice: Sarah Diesel – ‘Where Rivers Remember’
3D: Deanna Conti – ‘Transhuman AI’
3D Highly commended: Geoff Thomas – ‘Kintsugi Bowl No. 3’
2D: Rose Knight - ‘Little Mulgrave’
2D Highly commended: Ann Vardanega – ‘Mother Earth’
Ceramics: Robyn McDermott – ‘Night Forrest’
Ceramics highly commended: Marylyn Pett – ‘Birthed from Earth’s Living Layers’ Pot 7
Cassowary Coast artist: Mez Carle – Storm Watcher
FNQ tropical lifestyle: Dorte Colja – ‘In the Cane’
Emerging artist: Nikki Williams –‘Morning Laughter’
Youth (13-18 years): Mabel Shaw – ‘Ankylo’
Child (5-12 years): Lollo Lourigan – ‘The Sun’
Display team prize: Garry Willmott – ‘Reflection of Time’
For a complete listing of all award winners including award category, sponsor name, winning artist
name, artwork title, and artwork photo, visit the award winners’
online shop/webpage:
www.observer.s.gy/uKd73y
The exhibition remains open daily from 10am-2pm until 22 September, with visitors still able to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award.
Read More: Mission Beach