Young creatives are invited to design the official jersey for September’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride with the launch of the 2025 Youth Artist Competition.
The competition gives youth artists in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Council postcode areas the chance to showcase their talent on a grand scale, designing the jersey for the annual ride that will be worn by over 500 riders at the 2025 River 2 Reef Ride event.
Naiya Lucynski from Moranbah State High School won the 2024 Youth Artist Competition with a design that perfectly encapsulated the essence of the event and celebrated the beauty of the Mackay region.
“Winning the 2024 Youth Artist Competition was an amazing experience. Seeing my design on over 500 riders at the event was unforgettable, it was such a proud moment! It’s such a special opportunity to have your art showcased in such a big way.
“My design was inspired by the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay. Where community seeks connection, not only to others but also nature. Where people, including our cyclists seek adventure and get immersed in local beauty.
“Inspired by the stunning Mackay sunrise, representing a 5:30am event start, the sugar cane symbolises the ‘Sugar City’ and two riders symbolised mateship and community.”
Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal said the competition showcased some incredible talent when it launched in 2024.
“I was amazed by the creativity and skill of last year’s entrants. Naiya Luczynski’s winning design was a standout, and seeing it come to life on hundreds of riders at the event was simply inspiring. I can’t wait to see what this year’s talented youth artists create and encourage them to seize this opportunity to share their vision with the community.”
The competition offers fantastic prizes, with the winner taking home $500 and the prestige of having their design featured at one of Mackay’s most celebrated events. Second and third-place winners will receive $250 and $100 respectively.
Youth artists wishing to enter can download the jersey template from the official BMA River 2 Reef Ride website and start designing.
The competition is open to current high school students in the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday Regional Council postcodes. Submissions close on 3 March 2025 and public voting opens on 16 March with the winner being announced on 3 April 2025.
| Full competition details available on BMA River 2 Reef Ride website: www.river2reefride.com.au |
