Talented young creatives have been recognised at the City of Greater Bendigo’s 2026 RAW Arts Awards at a special presentation held at The Capital last night.
The RAW Arts Awards showcase and foster the talents and artistic pursuits of young people in the region 25 years of age and under, with this year’s awards attracting 105 entries. The average age of applicants was 17 years old.
The winner and a highly commended entry are recognised in four categories: Visual Arts, Literature, Performing Arts, and Short Film.
Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the RAW Arts Awards evening, and exhibition created a fantastic platform for young people across the region to share their creative work.
“RAW Arts Awards continues to be a highlight of the year, offering young artists an invaluable opportunity to showcase their talents to a broader audience and receive well-earned recognition,” Cr Prince said.
“It’s incredibly encouraging to see how the program supports emerging creatives, helping them build confidence and further develop their artistic ambitions.
“We are fortunate to have such inspiring young talent here in Greater Bendigo, and I extend my congratulations to this year’s winners, and everyone involved in RAW who has shared their creativity, ideas and stories.”
Winners in each category received a $1,500 cash prize and a $500 cash prize was awarded to highly commended creatives.
The announcement of winners was interspersed with a showcase of Performing Arts entrants and screening of films submitted in the Short Film category.
The 2026 RAW Arts Awards winners and highly commended applicants are as follows:
Visual arts:
- Winner: Isabella Hocking for Grumpy old Lady – pencil on paper
- Highly commended: Clementine Gray for The Hidden Truth – found Objects
Literature:
- Winner: Yasmin Russell for Empty Nest
- Highly commended: Grace Barter for Silence
Performing Arts
- Winner: Matilda Wilby – music/voice
- Highly commended: Zac Baumann – music theatre
Short Film:
- Winner: Jordan Spencer for Dagon
- Highly commended: Sara Hancock for Magenta
The 2026 RAW Arts exhibition features this year’s visual arts entries at Dudley House, 60 View Street. Entry is free and open to the public. The opening times are 11am to 3pm on Saturday June 6 to Monday June 8.
