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

Feature image
'The 51st Rio Tinto Yarwun & QAL Martin Hanson Memorial Art Awards' Mike Richards Photography

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.

 

QAL People’s Choice Awards
Voting is now open!
  • Visit the exhibition, select a voting form
  • Choose your favourite in sections one to four
  • Record the unique identifier number from the wall label, onto the voting form.
The QAL People’s Choice Awards will be announced at the conclusion of the exhibition. One artist in each of the four sections will receive $500. By casting your vote you also go in the draw to win a $2,000 travel voucher, all thanks to our sponsors, Queensland Alumina Limited (QAL).
Voting closes 1pm, Saturday, 23 January 2027. Click here for Terms and Conditions.

 

KEY DATES

Calling for Submissions
10am-4pm, Tuesday to Friday, 6-9 October and 10am-1pm, Saturday, 10 October 2026

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

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

For more information on the awards Click here

 

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.

Attachments
What's On
LIKE TO BOOK A GROUP TOUR? It's easy! Click to find out how

Volunteering Opportunities

Career & Volunteering Opportunities