Experience nature through the eyes of young artists

This summer, the Wild HeART Student Art Prize Finalists’ Exhibition Trail will see Maroochy Bushland Botanic Garden come alive with vibrant artworks created by local children and young people.

The free exhibition trail invites you to wander among 22 incredible art pieces by talented nature-lovers, aged 5 to 18 years.

As you explore the larger-than-life outdoor gallery, you will encounter graceful whale sharks, shy bandicoots, colourful butterflies, birds galore and more, each piece showcases our youngest residents’ love of nature and native Australian species.

This year, visitors can vote for their favourite artwork in the People’s Choice award which will be announced on 21 January.

Sunshine Coast Council Environment and Liveability Portfolio Councillor Maria Suarez invited the community to share in this celebration of creativity and care for nature at the 2025 Wild HeART Finalists’ Exhibition Trail.

"Congratulations to the 22 creative and passionate finalists, and to all the children who entered - from across our region and neighbouring areas,” Cr Suarez said.

“Each piece showcases more than just skill, they reflect these young artists curiosity, love for native species and the special places they explore across the Sunshine Coast and beyond.

"Thank you to all the young artists who entered the art prize. Your creativity and talent is truly inspiring.

“I can’t wait to explore the trail and cast my People’s Choice vote.”

Come and see the finalists

8 years and under: Congratulations Bailee, Mikayla, Ruth and Anouka.

13 years and under: Congratulations Aimee, Sonam, Ronen, Gabe, Henry, Josie, John, Alyssa, Mia and Sophie.

18 years and under: Congratulations Keahi, Natasha, Emma, Luka, Serenity, Kaiya and Angelica.

The Wild HeART Finalists’ Exhibition Trail is open until February 6, 2026, in the lower Maroochy Regional Bushland Botanic Garden during daylight hours. Entry is free. Artworks are accessible via gravel and sealed paths, and open lawn grass. Search ‘WildHeart’ on the Maroochy Bushland Botanic Gardens website for more details.

The Botanic Garden is centrally located in the Sunshine Coast region at Palm Creek Road, Tanawha. Accessible by car, coach and bicycle. There is plenty of parking available, including accessible parking. The gardens are open 7.00am to 6.00pm November – March.