Entertainment
2 October, 2026
Star ratings for every artist
BINGIL Bay Café was buzzing with energy earlier this month as more than 20 local artists and over 200 art lovers packed the venue for the opening of Mission Beach All Stars, a vibrant collective exhibition celebrating the creative talent of the Cassowary Coast.
Despite wet and windy weather, the atmosphere was electric as the café transformed into a glowing gallery filled with colour, music and community spirit.
The opening night featured live music by Paul Brennan.
The exhibition showcases an impressive line-up of artists such as Hamish Darveniza, Ebb Harber, Hilary Tredgett, Gary Lee, Jennifer Payne, Judy Brady, Pauline Roberts, Sally Moroney, Stuart Lloyd, Yvonne Frizzo, Kim Rayner, Sanita, Bernard KC, James Mercer, Viv Cassady, Cass Cataldo, Benny Cashman, Jenni Holmes, Angelika, Maria Girgenti and many more.
Their works spanning painting, sculpture, pottery and photography filled every corner of the café.
Suspended above the crowd were handcrafted driftwood stars, each bearing the name of an exhibiting artist.
The installation created a symbolic “room full of stars,” giving the venue a warm, celebratory feel and highlighting the region’s artistic identity.
Curator and fashion photographer Bernard KC said the turn-out showed how deeply the community valued its artists.
“Despite the damp weather, the opening night was very well supported by locals,” he said.
“It provided a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors to meet most of the artists, catch up with familiar faces and support our region’s creative community.
“I am committed to supporting emerging and unconventional artists, giving opportunities to creators who may never have imagined exhibiting their work.”
Café owners Geoff and Donna Spratling have long championed the arts, transforming their café into a cultural hub. Through regular exhibitions, Poets’ Corner, weekly live music, Makers Markets and creative workshops, they have built a space where artists, musicians and makers can connect and thrive. Their dedication to fostering creativity is widely admired across the region.
Mission Beach All Stars runs until 30 October, followed by the next monthly solo exhibition, ‘Paradise Painted by Jenn Payne’, opening on 30 October and featuring her vibrant tropical artworks.
Read More: Mission Beach