Create art from waste for a chance to win for your school or kindy

Published: 14th May 2025. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Kids and students to compete using recycled and repurposed materials
Winning entries displayed at popular Trash to Treasure event
$1,000 prize awarded in each school-age category

Art, Innovation, and Sustainability on Display

Children and students are invited to enter the ‘Reuse, Rethink, Repurpose’ competition by creating artworks or functional items from used and recycled materials. Eligible entries include sculptures, installations, image collages, wearable art, or upcycled furniture.

The competition will culminate at the Trash to Treasure event on Saturday 9 August at the Buy Back Shop in Portsmith, hosted by Cairns Regional Council.

Showcasing Youth Creativity

Last year’s event attracted more than 1,500 attendees and featured over 20 stalls, live entertainment, workshops, and competitions.

Mayor Amy Eden is encouraging early learning centres and schools to take part.

“The competition gets the next generation thinking about reusing and repurposing waste that would otherwise go to landfill,” Cr Eden said.
“It’s all about encouraging and empowering the community, particularly our younger generation to reuse, rethink, repurpose waste and make a positive difference.”

Prizes and Participation

Entries will be judged across three categories:

Early Learning Centres
Primary Schools
High Schools

Finalists will have their creations displayed at the event, where visitors can vote for their favourite. The most popular entry in each category will win a $1,000 cash prize.