Celebrate Art, Community and Creativity – with a sustainable twist!
Everyone is invited to join the festivities at the official opening of the 2025 Community Arts Exhibition: Upcycled! on Saturday 29 November at 2pm.
Be a part of this year's theme by dressing up, wearing something recycled, reimagined or op-shopped! There's a special door prize for the best outfit, and jazz-blues musician Corinne Nichols (Pickles) will be performing.
This popular annual community exhibition has encouraged artists to think sustainably and creatively this year, and to inspire upcycling in every way we live. Community artists have brought their interpretation with incredible works that are a must see.
Central Goldfields Shire Mayor Councillor Ben Green said the annual exhibition was an important part of our local culture in the arts.
"We have an amazing gallery which brings us works from across the world and across our nation, but every year we pause to take a close look at what our local artists are creating in our Community Arts exhibition."
"It's the reason regional galleries are so important, because they showcase our culture alongside the bigger picture from the art world. To see how our community artists interpret sustainability is inspiring."
Contributing artists are from across Central Goldfields Shire — also welcoming neighbouring Avoca — and have contributed alongside several school groups and a special, collaborative piece by artists from ASTERIA Disability Services.
Louise Turner, Coordinator of Healthy Environments, manages the tonnes of waste processed by Central Goldfields Shire every year. She said it was astounding what local artists can create from what many see as landfill.
"This exhibition reminds us that creativity can inspire change — showing how we can reimagine waste and find beauty and value in what might otherwise be discarded. It's about acting locally to create a more sustainable future,"
"The Upcycled! exhibition is a wonderful celebration of our community's imagination and commitment to sustainability. It's inspiring to see how local artists — from school students to experienced creators — are turning everyday materials into art that tells a story."
A range of prizes will be awarded, including:
- Upcycled Prize: $200, sponsored by Healthy Environments, Central Goldfields Shire
- Youth Awards: prizes of $50, $30 and $20, proudly sponsored by the Maryborough Craft Shop Inc.
There's no need to book – simply come along and see how creative our community is. Entry is free and refreshments are provided.
The Upcycled! exhibition invites us all to pause, look again, and discover new possibilities in the everyday — transforming the ordinary into something extraordinary.
The exhibition is on display until 22 February 2026.
Central Goldfields Art Gallery is in the Old Fire Station, 1 Neill Street, Maryborough.
The Gallery is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm, and entry is free.
