Entries open for one of Queensland’s most sought-after art prizes
Published on 18 May 2026
Artists from across Australia are being invited to compete in one of Queensland’s premier regional art competitions, with entries now open for the prestigious Du Rietz Art Awards at the Gympie Regional Gallery.
Since its inception in 2019, the Du Rietz Art Awards has grown into one of Queensland’s leading contemporary art prizes, showcasing exceptional 2D and 3D works from artists across the Gympie region and Australia. More than $15,000 in prize money is up for grabs this year.
Gympie Mayor Glen Hartwig said the competition had grown significantly in recent years and had become a respected platform for artists to showcase their work and gain national recognition.
“The Gympie Regional Gallery plays a vital role in showcasing both local and national talent and supporting a vibrant arts and culture scene. It is part of the everyday services Council provides to connect the community, foster creativity and enhance liveability across the region,” Cr Hartwig said.
“The Du Rietz Art Awards have gained real momentum in recent years, with a record 230 entries received from across Australia in last year’s competition.
“We’re grateful for the ongoing support of local businesses that have sponsored the awards over the past seven years. This support has helped ensure the awards continue to attract high-calibre work and evolve year after year.
“If you're an artist, especially from the Gympie Region, I’d really encourage you to submit an entry. Have a go and be part of a competition that puts your creativity on show alongside some of the best in the country.”
Award categories include:
- 2D Acquisitive Award - $6,500
- 3D Acquisitive Award - $3,500
- 2D Highly Commended Award - $1,500
- People’s Choice Award - $1,000
Entries for the 2026 Du Rietz Art Awards close at 5pm on Tuesday, 30 June.
The Du Rietz Art Awards exhibition will run from Saturday 5 September to Friday 9 October 2026, with the Exhibition Opening and Awards Announcement evening to be held on Friday 11 September, from 6pm to 8.30pm.
The 2026 Du Rietz Art Awards are proudly sponsored by Countrywide Metals, Budget Steel, CAA Consulting, Dr Heinke Butt, David and Sally Gartshore, Annette Reilly, and Drs Calin and Mihaela Negru-Radu.
The Gympie Regional Gallery, located at 39 Nash Street, Gympie, is free to enter and is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am–4pm, and Saturday, 10am–2pm.
To find our more visit: Du Rietz Art Awards | Gympie Regional Council