On Saturday 6 December, the Jubilee Art Prize’s final exhibition and prize-giving ceremony took place at St Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore. It was a joyful occasion where artists and families gathered to celebrate the talents displayed.
Bishop Greg Homeming OCD presented certificates to the winners and spoke warmly about the event. He expressed his admiration for the creativity and depth of meaning in the artworks.
“I have been very impressed with the standard of artwork and the way it has reflected the hope and faith of our community,” Bishop Greg said.
The winners
We are delighted to announce the winners of the respective categories. Each piece reflected the theme of Hope in its unique way, reminding us that art has a way of drawing us closer to the Lord.
0–5 Years
1st: Fletcher Don
2nd: Pippa Don
3rd: Lucy Polson
6–8 Years
1st: James Polson
2nd: Elizabeth Hadlow
3rd: August Sandwell
Highly Commended: Isaac Abel, Sianna Burford, Clare Polson
9–12 Years
1st: Bonnie Lindsay
2nd: Mia Durrington
3rd: Eddy Wadwick
Highly Commended: Johan Rajesh, Grace Cullen, John Rajesh, Hansel Alapatt
13–17 Years
1st: Stephanie Sharwood
2nd: Olivia Mae Gridley
3rd: Nava Ternan & Emma Patterson
Highly Commended: Raine Wallace
18+ Years
1st: Geraldine Loong
2nd: Frances Hunt
3rd: Trish Bazar
Highly Commended: Trish Bazar
Group award
1st: Year 6, St Joseph’s Primary School, Laurieton
2nd: 9A, McAuley College, Grafton
3rd: Year 2, St Brigid’s Primary School, Kyogle
Photography
17 and under: 1st – Macey Arkinstall
18+: 1st – Robert John Greenlaw
People’s Choice Awards
The People’s Choice Awards, voted by local communities at each Pilgrim Church, celebrated artwork that deeply resonated with parishioners:
- St Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore and final exhibition: Geraldine Loong for her stunning canvas portrait of Sr Mary Rose, created in partnership with the Carmelite Monastery in Goonellabah.
- St Augustine’s Parish, Coffs Harbour: Frances Hunt for Ocean Star, inspired by the hope and resilience of refugees and migrants.
- St Agnes’ Parish, Port Macquarie: Indy George for a hand-drawn piece reminding us that even in the darkest days, God opens doors to new opportunities.
- Sacred Heart Parish, Murwillumbah: Bonnie Lindsay for Hope in the Light, reflecting God’s presence in difficult times.
Next year’s theme
We are excited to announce that the theme for the 2026 Art Prize will be The Face of Compassion. More details about this will be released next year.
Thank you to all who entered and contributed to the Jubilee Art Prize. May we continue to walk together as Pilgrims of Hope, inspired by the beauty and faith shared through the art on display.
