Entries have opened for the 2026 Daylesford Rotary Art Show, with organisers calling on local and regional artists to take part in what will mark the event’s 43rd year in 2026. You can enter via daylesfordartshow.com.au
This not-for-profit event runs from 29 October to 3 November 2026 at the Daylesford Town Hall in the heart of Daylesford. It is expected to draw thousands of visitors over the Melbourne Cup weekend period, reinforcing its status as one of regional Victoria’s most significant and enduring art events.
Presented by the Rotary Club of Daylesford, the annual show has built a strong reputation for showcasing a wide cross-section of artistic talent, from emerging regional artists through to established practitioners, while also providing a major fundraising platform for local and international community initiatives supported by Rotary.
Oil painting, acrylic, watercolour, drawing accepted. Photographs not accepted.
Major awards – open to all categories
Portrait
Nude
Seascape / Urbanscape / Landscape
Central Victorian Landscape
Still Life
Abstract
Animalia (Animals and wildlife)
Major prizes
$2000 The Carol White Best in Show Award
$1,500 That Bargain Place: Best Nude Award
$1,500 Lake House: The Allan Wolf-Tasker Memorial Central Victorian Award
$1,500 Daylesford District Community Bank Best Landscape Award
$1,000 Club Wyndham Bellinzona Hepburn Springs Daylesford Best Portrait Award
$500 Springs Medical Best Still Life Award
$500 Springs Medical Best Abstract Award
$500 Daylesford Meat Co Best Animalia Award
$500 Blooms the Chemist Best U18 in Show Award (1st prize $300, 2nd prize $200)
Organisers have confirmed that entries are now open, with submissions priced at $25 per artwork. All entries must comply with a maximum size restriction of 1.2 metres in any direction, and standard terms and conditions apply. Artists are encouraged to submit works across a broad range of categories, with the show continuing its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in artistic expression. All works submitted are also included in an online showcase component, further extending visibility beyond the physical exhibition
New, bigger and better
A number of new and expanded features have been introduced for the 2026 event, including increased prize pools across major categories and additional opportunities for artists to sell their work throughout the exhibition period. All exhibiting artists will also receive free entry to the official Opening Night event, held at the Daylesford Town Hall and hosted in partnership with Blooms the Chemist, which will take place from 6–8.30pm on Thursday 29 October 2026.
One of the largest regional art shows
The Daylesford Rotary Art Show has long been regarded as a cornerstone cultural event within the region, both for its contribution to the local arts community and for its broader role in fundraising for Rotary projects. Proceeds from the show support community initiatives locally, nationally and internationally, reinforcing the event’s dual purpose as both a cultural showcase and a charitable endeavour.
As preparations begin for the 2026 edition, organisers say the focus remains on celebrating artistic talent, strengthening community engagement, and continuing to grow one of Australia’s most respected regional art exhibitions.
