Reeflections Student Art Competition Reopens To Year 9–12 Students In 2026

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The Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays is proud to announce the return of the Reeflections Student Art Competition in 2026, now expanded to include Year 9–12 students from across the region.

Reeflections celebrates the creativity, talent, and environmental connection of young people, inviting students to produce artworks inspired by the Whitsundays, the Great Barrier Reef, and the natural world that surrounds them. Entries may include painting, drawing, or sculpture.

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As part of the region’s growing cultural calendar, Reeflections also contributes to the creative energy surrounding the Great Barrier Reef Festival, which celebrates the Reef through art, storytelling, and community events. By nurturing young artists, the competition strengthens the festival’s broader mission of inspiring environmental appreciation through creativity.

“Reeflections began as a small but meaningful opportunity for young artists,” said Nicole Campbell, Director of Sales and Marketing.  

“As we enter our second year and open entries to Years 9–12, we’re building on those early foundations and working toward establishing Reeflections as an annual creative event for local students.”

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Finalists will have their work professionally exhibited in the Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays throughout August, with winners recognised at a community awards event later in the year.

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The competition aims to:

• Encourage youth engagement with the arts

• Strengthen local connection to the Reef and regional identity

• Provide a professional exhibition opportunity for emerging artists

• Celebrate creativity within Whitsunday schools and communities

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Dates, eligibly and submission requirements can be found on the 2026 Reeflections Art Competition Website, www.athotelgroup.com/2026-reeflections-student-art-competition-whitsunday.

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