Gatepost Sculpture Competition 2026

Bruny Island Bird Festival | 20–22 March 2026

Friends of North Bruny (FONB) is delighted to sponsor the Gatepost Sculpture Competition as part of the 2026 Bruny Island Bird Festival.

This much-loved island tradition celebrates creativity, sustainability and community spirit. Sculptures are displayed near gateposts or along fence lines across the island, creating a unique art trail for locals and visitors to enjoy.

Categories & Awards

A prize of $100 will be awarded to the winner of each section.  Sculptures may be entered in one of the following categories:

• Junior (12 years & under)
• Teen / Adult
• Business/Organisation/Group

In addition, all sculptures are automatically eligible for:

• People’s Choice Award
• Friends of North Bruny Marine Debris Award

Your entry may qualify for more than one award.

All new sculptures must incorporate recycled or upcycled materials. To be eligible for the FONB Marine Debris Award, sculptures must creatively incorporate marine debris as part of their design.

From the Archives

This year, we are also inviting past participants to “dust off” previous entries, your special piece of ‘Island’ art, and display them once more as part of our “From the Archives” collection.

These archival sculptures will not be judged but will add to the richness and history of the festival trail.

ENTRY FORM LINK

Key Dates & FAQs

When do entries close?

March 11 – This is the final date to submit your entry form. You do not need to have completed your sculpture by this date — but you must have lodged your application form.

When do you need a photo?

By March 15 – Please email a photograph of your sculpture. It does not need to be in its final position (although that is helpful if possible). The photo will be used by the judges and included on the official festival map, so please take it from a flattering angle that shows it at its very best.

Where should I position my sculpture?

The aim is to display your sculpture near your gatepost, as part of the island-wide trail.

However, if you feel it is:

• safer for cars to pull over slightly away from your entry gate, or
• preferable for privacy reasons

you may position it nearby or along your fence line. When sending your photo, please include a brief description of its exact location so judges and festival attendees can find it easily.

When will judging take place?

March 16 – Our Judges will drive around the island to view and judge sculptures. Your sculpture must be in its final position by this date. You do not need to be at home, judges will observe from the road.

When is the festival?

March 20-22 is The Bird Festival takes place over the weekend of 20-22 March 2026. A Gatepost Sculpture Map will be available so visitors can follow the trail around the island. Winners of all categories will be announced just prior to the Sunday evening ‘feast’. If you are not present, we will contact you to arrange your prize.

A friendly reminder

With increased traffic slowing and stopping to admire sculptures during festival weekend, you may wish to let neighbours know what’s happening.