Media Release - Spirit of the Land Captures Top Honour at 47th Hinchin

Published on 16 November 2025

A photographic artist and academic who proudly calls Ingham home has taken out the Open Award at the 47th Hinchinbrook Art Awards at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery last Friday night.

Ann Vardanega claimed the Open Award with her “Spirit of the Land” from a field of 113 entries, showcasing the incredible depth of creativity and talent within our region and beyond.

Nearly 180 guests gathered to celebrate the arts and recognise outstanding achievements.

This annual event continues to provide a respected platform for artists of all levels to share their work in a professional gallery setting, reinforcing its place as one of North Queensland’s most valued cultural traditions.

Cr Donna Marbelli said the Hinchinbrook Art Awards showcase the incredible talent within our community and beyond.

“Each piece tells a story, and together they create a rich tapestry of creativity that we are proud to celebrate,” Cr Marbelli said.

“We extend our sincere thanks to the sponsors and local businesses whose support makes these Awards possible. Their contributions help foster creativity and ensure the continued success of this important cultural event.”

Below are the category winners:

Youth Award: “Sweetness of Decay” by Victoria Mingon (Entrant 35) Sponsored by : Wilmar Sugar and Renewables.
Section 1: Painting (2D) “Before the Rain” by Rose Knight (Entrant 28) Sponsored by : Former Member for Hinchinbrook Nick Dametto.
Section 2: Watercolour “Cairns in Motion” by Sahan Kulathunge (Entrant 41) Sponsored by : Herbert River Sub-Branch RSL Inc.
Section 3: Mixed Media “ICARUS now” by Ange Venardos (Entrant 45) Sponsored by : UP North.
Section 4: Digital Art “Cooling Off” by Elliot Altmann (Entrant 70) Sponsored by : Cosca.
Section 5: Works on Paper “Herberton Jacaranda” by Rose Watts (Entrant 87).
Section 6: Photography “Ripples” by Louise Torrisi (Entrant 97) Sponsored by : Ingham Family Medical Practice.
Section 7: Ceramics “Coral Cluster” by Sally Moroney (Entrant 102) Sponsored by : Ingham Art Action.
Section 8: Sculptural Form “Those Who Stand Long” by Alan Carpenter (Entrant 104) Sponsored by : San Souci Apartments.
Local Artist Award “The Weight of Water” by Kristina Fontana (Entrant 16).
Indigenous Award “Nywaigi Dreaming” by Gail Marbo (Entrant 12).
Open Award “Spirit of the Land” by Ann Vardanega (Entrant 92).

The exhibition will remain open to the public until Friday 19 December 2025, from 10.00am to 4.00pm daily at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the collection and cast their vote at the TYTO Regional Art Gallery for the People’s Choice Award sponsored by Bissons Electrical, which will be announced in early January 2026.