People’s choice winners announced for Waste to Art
A CARDBOARD paper dog and a sunflower artwork created from discarded
fabric have been crowned the People’s Choice Award winners for the 2025 Waste to Art competition.
Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the People’s Choice awards highlighted the creativity and imagination shown across the exhibition.
“Last year’s Waste to Art competition attracted 114 creative entries, including 23 incredible works in the new Wearable Art category,” Cr Seymour said.
“Waste to Art is all about celebrating creativity, sustainability and innovative reuse and recycling, and that was clearly reflected in every entry.
“The Waste to Art exhibition launched in November 2025 and has now wrapped up, with the public voting to decide their favourite artworks across the Junior and Senior exhibitions.
Cr Seymour said the Junior Exhibition People’s Choice Award was won by McCartney Petersen for her artwork Kardboard Keeshond, receiving $150 Buy Local Gift Card.
“The sculptured dog, made entirely from cardboard and paper, was inspired by McCartney’s own pet.
“The Senior Exhibition People’s Choice Award was won by Ruth Muller for her artwork Second Bloom, receiving $300 Buy Local Gift Card.
“The artwork began with a broken canvas, which Ruth layered with discarded fabrics, clothing and tablecloths to create a striking sunflower design.
Cr Seymour said while judges selected winners across six categories in November, the People’s Choice awards were particularly meaningful because they reflected the views of the community.
“These awards are chosen by the public, which makes them extra special for the artists,” he said.
“This year the exhibition attracted 1,296 visitors and received 656 public votes, highlighting its growing popularity.”
“The exhibition grows in popularity each year, challenging perceptions of waste while encouraging creative reuse and innovative recycling with entries for 2026 opening soon.”
Gatakers Artspace is open Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am to 3.30pm, and weekends from 9.30am to 2.00pm. Weekend collections require an appointment by calling 07 4190 5818.
