Hand-Painted Masterpiece Turns Heads At Flemington

By Hannah McNamara

Mackay creatives are making their mark across the nation, and Kylie Ferriday is one of them.

At this year’s Derby Day at Flemington, the local artist turned a custom couture gown into a breathtaking canvas celebrating nature and individuality. Amanda Katsadoros, brought the dress to life on the runway, crafted by Anna Dutton Couture and perfectly complemented by a striking millinery piece from Rebecca Share.

The gown, designed in black and white to suit the Derby Day theme, became a statement of artistry, painstakingly hand-painted with intricate bird motifs.

“Birds are my favourite animals. I love cockatoos. They’re just so calming, free, and beautiful,” Kylie said.

“All those intricate details and feathers are what I loved about that dress... painting a horse just wouldn’t have been authentic for me.”

The collaboration began more than a year ago when Kylie was approached to work on the custom gown. Initially apprehensive, she decided to take the leap, embracing the challenge.

“You can’t make mistakes on something like this,” she said.

“I think it’s sometimes good to do things that scare you. Sometimes it pays off, and this was one of those times.”

The final piece is a true showcase of regional talent and creativity, with its delicate black, white, and grey palette highlighting Kylie’s meticulous layering. The gown demanded over 50 hours of work, with each stroke carefully applied to bring the birds to life. The collaboration also included local millinery and couture expertise, further emphasising the depth of talent in Mackay and beyond.

Kylie says the project reflects a lifelong dedication to creativity. Born in Mackay and raised in Cairns before studying in Brisbane, she always gravitated toward art. She honed her skills at Cairns High’s Centre of Artistic Development and later at Queensland University of Technology.

Today, she shares that passion through Art Haus, a space dedicated to nurturing local young artists.

“Not all kids want to do sport after school. Some want to sit down and paint. I created Art Haus because I wanted them to feel like they can belong,” she said.

“It’s a safe space. Everyone is welcome, no matter their level or background. I’ve watched students flourish into amazing artists over the years,” Kylie said.

The Derby gown project has also brought wider recognition.

“It’s humbling to have it noticed down south,” she said. “I’m proud it’s come from a regional town, and I love that our community embraces the arts.”

For aspiring artists, Kylie advises to “Just start.”

“Being creative and sharing it is brave, but it’s also how we grow.”

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Mackay artist Kylie Ferriday hand-painted a custom gown for Flemington’s Derby Day, bringing intricate birds to life. Photo source: Kylie Ferriday Art

Kylie Ferriday hopes her hand-painted Derby gown, brought to life with the collaboration of local talent Amanda Katsadoros, Anna Dutton Couture, and Rebecca Share, inspires regional creativity on the national stage. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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