Waste to Art

Entries are now open for the 2025 Waste to Art Competition!

The competition invites artists of all ages to reimagine waste by turning discarded items into meaningful works of art.

This year features a brand-new Wearable Art category and fashion parade, to highlight the growing issue of textile waste.

Whether it’s a striking gown made from old curtains and a lampshade, or a jacket fashioned from denim scraps, the goal is to inspire people to see value in things we usually throw away.

That could mean donating, reselling, repairing, upcycling, or recycling - Learn more here.

With a $5,000 prize pool on offer, the competition aims to promote a shift toward a circular economy, where waste is reduced and materials are kept in use for as long as possible.

The competition is open to individuals, schools, and community groups across the Wide Bay area.

With a maximum of one entry per person, and up to five entries per group.
All entries must be made primarily from waste materials - items that would otherwise end up in landfill, from op shops, tip shops, or second-hand sources.

Minimal use of new materials is allowed only where structurally necessary.

Please read the Terms and Conditions before entering.

Winners will receive Buy Local Gift Cards loaded to the values listed below.

Category 1 (18 years +) 1st Prize: $1,500 2nd Prize: $500 3rd Prize: $350	Category 2 (12–17 years) 1st Prize: $300 2nd Prize: $150 3rd Prize: $100
Category 3 (8–11 years) 1st Prize: $200 2nd Prize: $100 3rd Prize: $75	Category 4 (under 8’s) 1st Prize: $150 2nd Prize: $75 3rd Prize: $50
Wearable Art Category (18 years +) 1st Prize: $500 2nd Prize: $250	Wearable Art Category (Under 18’s) 1st Prize: $150 2nd Prize: $100
People’s choice award (18 years +) Prize: $300	People’s choice award (Under 18’s) Prize: $150

Entries will be judged on the following criteria:
- Demonstration of reuse and repurposing
- Creativity and innovation
- Durability and functionality
- Overall visual impact
Entrants will showcase their creations in a live fashion parade at the Exhibition Opening on Saturday 15 November, (4pm – 7pm).

You’ll need to provide your own model for the runway (fitting rooms will be available).

Prizes will be awarded for standout designs during the parade.

Further details will be provided to participants closer to the event.

Please read the Terms and Conditions before entering.