Backing Mackay’s Next Generation Of Artists

Mayor Greg Williamson, centre, presented the 2025 Jack Sturgeon Bursary to Jaxon Anderson, accepted on his behalf by Kyra Geoghegan, the Foundation Families Bursary to Nerida Hansen, second from left, and the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary to Ashling Scanlon. Also pictured is Artspace Mackay Foundation bursary judge Leonie Wood. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council  

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Aspiring artists in the Mackay Region have the opportunity to receive support towards their studies, with applications now open for four visual and performing arts bursaries supported by council.

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The bursaries aim to help support the next generation of local artists as they pursue further study and careers in the arts.

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Among the opportunities is the Rick Wood Bursary, which honours the legacy of celebrated Mackay potter Rick Wood, as well as the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary, supporting students looking to take their tertiary studies to the next level.

The Jack Sturgeon Bursary, supported by the MECC and Friends of the MECC, is also open, alongside the Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said the bursaries played an important role in supporting young people pursuing careers in the arts.

“Choosing to follow your creative passion through tertiary education takes real courage, especially when it means moving away from home,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“These students deserve our support, and we’re proud to help ease some of the financial pressures they face,” he said.

He also acknowledged the contribution of the Friends of the MECC in supporting the $3000 Jack Sturgeon Bursary and the $1500 Foundation Families Bursary.

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“The Friends of the MECC are tireless advocates for the performing arts in our region, and their support for these bursaries is a wonderful example of grassroots investment in local talent,” he said.

“The bursaries are available to performing arts students who have been accepted into tertiary studies in any aspect of the performing arts, including on-stage roles and behind-the-scenes disciplines such as directing and production.”

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Artspace Mackay Director Lauren Turton said the Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursary contributed $3000 to help students undertake special projects and access study opportunities that enriched their tertiary education experience.

“Past recipients have used the bursary to help with everyday living and study costs and pursuing extra opportunities like attending specialist classes or studying abroad,” Mrs Turton said.

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“The $1000 Rick Wood Bursary assists graduating high school students to continue their studies of visual arts at university level,” she said.

“It can be used for tuition fees, textbooks, equipment or expenses required by the student.”

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All four bursaries are now open and will close on Wednesday, November 18, 2026. Recipients will be announced in December.

To apply or learn more about the Rick Wood and Artspace Mackay Foundation Bursaries, visit: artspacemackay.com.au/learn/Art-Bursaries

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To apply or learn more about the Jack Sturgeon Bursary and Friends of the MECC Foundation Families Bursary, visit: themecc.com.au/Get-involved/Supporting-the-next-generation

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