General News
22 May, 2026
Georgie Sambell wins Warrnibald
A CROWD of more than 270 people enjoyed last Friday night’s official opening of the 2026 Warrnibald Festival of Arts.
Strong crowds continued through the opening days of the festival.
This year’s Warrnibald has attracted 120 artworks across the portrait prize, general art and photography sections, showcasing an impressive range of creativity and talent while proudly supporting South West Healthcare Hospice.
A highlight of opening night was the announcement of the major award winners, including overall winner Georgie Sambell with her artwork, ‘Jacinta.’
Congratulations to all winners:
Warrnibald Portaiture:
1st Georgie Sambell, ‘Jacinta’ (watercolour on paper);
2nd Helen Edwards, ‘Wendy,” (oil on board);
Highly commended – Jo Hickman (acrylic) and Vicky Hughson (photography).
Hospice General Art:
1st Tara Shackell, ‘Hopkins River’ (oil);
2nd Sarah Edwards, ‘Easter at the river mouth’ (acrylic);
Highly commended – Linda Hunter (ink and pen) and Sarah Mazur (acrylic).
Photography:
1st Marsh Smith, 2nd George El-Hage.
Real Colour Art:
1st Georgina Finnigan.
Junior Art:
1st Madison Edge, ‘My Dad, My Hero.’
Live Portraiture:
1st Sue Hope, ‘Tony Rae.’
The awards were judged by visiting artists Phil and Robyn Rolton from Noosa, who were joined by Susan Sutton from Lorne.
Since opening there has been a steady stream of visitors enjoying not only the exhibitions but also the festival’s interactive, community-focused program.
Festival-goers have enjoyed live portrait artist sessions with six talented local artists, children’s carving with Merran Koran, sip and paint sessions, a photography panel talk and talks by Colleen Hughson (Beach Patrol) and Anthea Rafferty (GreenPrint Project).
“The Warrnibald is about more than an exhibition, it proudly supports Warrnambool and District Community Hospice, a local not-for-profit organisation that helps people spend their end of life journey at home in comfort while also supporting their families and carers.
“Funds raised through the festival help cover the ongoing costs of delivering this compassionate service free of charge to people in our region.”
