The Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition has become the cultural powerhouse of fine art in Mackay and Central Queensland! The Awards achieved record-breaking entries in 2023 and a strengthened reputation in 2025.

This historical and well-recognised event attracts entries from established and emerging artists across Australia. Judged by prominent figures from renowned galleries and museums like the Queensland Art Gallery and National Galleries of Victoria and NSW and the National Gallery of Australia, it’s no wonder that it has gained national recognition.

In late 2024, the Mackay Show Association handed over the running of the Woollam Art on Show Awards & Exhibition to the Mackay Art Society, a not-for-profit, incorporated and community focused organisation. Having run its own annual art competition and exhibition for over 40 years, the Art Society has the passion, expertise and experience to host a national exhibition of this significance.

There is a committee of 4 and many other volunteers working together to ensure its success. Mackay Art Society is most appreciative of the support and advocacy of Art Space Mackay and Mackay City Regional Council.

In its 20th year, the Art on Show Awards launches in the first week of August 2026. The five-day showcase aims to promote professionalism in the arts and engage young people in the spirit of competition and excellence. The Art on Show Awards & Exhibition will also form an integral part of Mackay’s Festival of the Arts program.

The principal goals of the Art on Show Awards are to:

• continue to seek and encourage a very significant level of participation from artists nation wide
• provide a high standard of presentation where art may be viewed and studied
• play an integral part in the cultural future of our region
• provide an educational role in raising awareness and participation within the Arts
• provide a high-profile arts prize that recognises diversity and excellence

Mackay Art Society is committed to ensure that the Art on Show Awards & Exhibition continues to provide a well-recognised event, celebrating excellence in fine art for Mackay and Central Queensland.