The 51st Rio Tinto Yarwun & QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards

The 51st Rio Tinto Yarwun & QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards

This highly anticipated annual exhibition presents the entries for the Hanson Awards 2026, showcasing the creativity and talent of established, emerging and amateur artists from across Australia.

In its fifty-first year, the Awards remain one of Queensland’s most respected regional art events, recognising artistic excellence and fostering cultural growth.

KEY DATES

Calling for Submissions
10am, Tuesday 6 October to 1pm, Saturday 10 October 2026

Official Opening and Awards Presentation
6pm, Saturday 31 October 2026

Judge's Floor Talk 
10.30am, Saturday 31 October 2026

Judge's Illustrated Lecture 
11.30am, Saturday 31 October 2026

Martin Hanson (1923-1976) was a popular and highly-respected local businessman who was Member for Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Port Curtis 1963-1976, and patron to the Gladstone Artists Club. As a tribute to his patronage, in conjunction with the Hanson family, the Gladstone Artists Club held the first Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards and Exhibition in 1976.

The Gladstone Regional Art Gallery & Museum became the custodian of the Hanson Awards in 1993.