Waste 2 Art - 2026
Waste 2 Art 2026 - 'Shrink Your Footprint'
Waste 2 Art 2026 has now concluded as of August 2026.
A huge congratulations to local legend Mia Buckley, whose artwork ‘Rattlesnake’ was recognised as a regional winner at this year’s Waste 2 Art regional competition in Broken Hill.
A fantastic achievement and a great reflection of the creativity in our community!
Gilgandra Shire Council is excited to announce the return of Waste 2 Art for 2026! This fun and creative program invites residents of all ages to transform everyday waste materials into artworks under this year’s theme, 'Shrink Your Footprint'.
Waste 2 Art is a chance to get creative while learning more about the impact of waste and how small changes can make a big difference. By reusing and repurposing materials that might otherwise end up in landfill, our community can work together to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Who Can Enter
Entries are open to all members of the Gilgandra Region community, across the following categories:
- Preschool
- Primary School
- Secondary School
- Community
- Open
Artworks can be entered in these sections:
- Two-dimensional works
- Three-dimensional works
- Functional works
Artwork Requirements
All artworks must:
- Be created using reused or recycled materials
- Fit within the size of a shoebox
Materials might include soft plastics, tin cans, bottle tops, scrap metal, textiles, or other items that would otherwise go to landfill. Let your imagination run wild!
Key Dates
- Entries Close: 5pm, Wednesday, 6 May 2026
- Local Exhibition: 11 - 29 May 2026, at the Coo-ee Heritage & Visitor Information Centre
- Regional Showcase at Broken Hill: 10 August to 4 September 2026
Entry Form and Terms
All entrants must complete the Entry Form, which includes the competition terms and conditions, and submit it with their artwork before the closing date.
Workshop
Council will be hosting a Community Workshop to help participants explore ideas, learn tips for using recycled materials, and get creative with artist Ronda Sharpe attending to provide assistance and inspiration.
- Wednesday, 8 April 2026
- 10am - 12pm
- Gilgandra Youth Services, 4 Hall Street, Gilgandra
Free. All ages are welcome.
Exhibitions & Prizes
All submitted artworks will be showcased at the Local Waste 2 Art Exhibition in May. Local winners will receive Cooee Cash Cards, and one winner from each category will progress to the Regional Showcase for the next round of judging.
The 2026 Regional Showcase will be hosted by Broken Hill City Council at the Albert Kersten Mining and Minerals Museum (the GeoCentre) from 10 August to 4 September 2026, with the Opening Function and official announcement of winners on Saturday, 15 August 2026.
Prize money of $11,500 will be awarded across all categories at the Regional Showcase.
Getting Started
Start collecting materials from around your home, school or workplace. Household recycling, Op Shops, and everyday items can all be transformed into something amazing. Waste 2 Art is a great way to get creative, learn about sustainability, and have fun while reducing waste.
Follow Council and NetWaste's facebook pages for inspiration.
More Information
For further details, contact Council’s Planning and Development team on 6817 8800.