Gatakers Artspace sets new visitor record in 2025
Published on 08 January 2026
Gatakers Artspace in Maryborough has recorded its biggest year yet, welcoming 15,000 visitors who explored 28 exhibitions across the Gallery and Studio during 2025.
Deputy Mayor and Arts spokesperson Cr Sara Diana Faraj said the milestone reflected the strength and growing appeal of the Fraser Coast’s arts and cultural scene.
“It’s fantastic to see so many locals and visitors enjoying Gatakers Artspace, from major exhibitions and artist showcases to school visits, talks and hands-on creative experiences,” Cr Faraj said.
“During 2025, Gatakers Artspace hosted 28 exhibitions, including 11 solo exhibitions and 17 group exhibitions, along with five school visits designed to inspire the next generation of artists.
“The Studio hosted the 3rd International Art Textile Biennale presented by Fibre Arts Australia. This stunning showcase featured works by 42 artists from across Australia and around the world.
“Each piece explored diverse techniques and materials, resulting in a collection that celebrates innovation, craftsmanship, and the limitless possibilities of textile art.
“The gallery and studio also featured works from the Maryborough Regional Art Society Exhibition, the Hervey Bay Art Society Annual Exhibition and St Mary’s Twenty 25 Exhibition.
Cr Faraj said the Fraser Coast boasts a rich and diverse creative community, and Gatakers Artspace provides the perfect platform to showcase the talents of local artists, art groups and students.
“A highlight of the year was the introduction of a new Wearable Art category within the Waste to Art exhibition, showcasing recycled fashion with a creative twist,” she said.
“We were thrilled to receive 23 Wearable Art entries in its first year and look forward to growing and expanding the category even further in 2026.
“Throughout the year, Gatakers Artspace also delivered a wide range of cultural experiences, hosting visiting groups such as the Australian Scout Jamboree and Citroën Car Rally, along with community events including Relish, Cardboard City for the Mary Poppins Festival and the Community Tea Set Project.
“In addition, the gallery hosted 16 artist talks and 25 creative workshops across drawing, printmaking, ceramics, watercolour and professional development.
“We’re incredibly proud of what Gatakers Artspace achieved in 2025 and are excited to build on that momentum with an even bigger and more diverse program in 2026,” Cr Faraj said.
Four new exhibitions open this Saturday, 10 January, from 6pm, showcasing a range of artistic styles, stories and perspectives.
A layered journey through shifting landscapes by Kate Websdale and Julie Barker uses layered mixed-media works to explore the natural environments, shorelines and ecosystems of the Cooloola Coast.
Dear Diary by Shanay Manitzky is an immersive exhibition of coloured pencil drawings and installations that share everyday thoughts, emotions and unspoken moments, like a public visual diary.
Daze of Summer by the Childers Visual Arts Group reflects on personal interpretations and experiences of summer.
Coastal by Kim Osburn draws inspiration from her daily walks along the beaches and foreshore of Hervey Bay, capturing changing coastal landscapes and marine and bird life.
Cr Faraj said entry to Gatakers Artspace is free, with the new exhibitions on display from Saturday 10 January to 21 February 2026.
“I encourage residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the gallery experience this year and discover the creativity and inspiration on offer through our 2026 exhibition program,” Cr Faraj said.
Gatakers Artspace is located at 311 Kent Street, Maryborough, and is open from 9.30am to 3.30pm Tuesday to Friday and 9.30am to 2pm on weekends and public holidays.
More information about current and upcoming exhibitions is available at https://www.ourfrasercoast.com.au/Gatakers-Artspace