Balonne Shire Art Paint Out 2026
The Balonne Shire Art Paint Out 2026 is a community‑focused painting event hosted along the banks of the scenic Balonne River in St George, Queensland. The Watercolour Society of Queensland is proud to support this regional arts initiative funded by the Queensland Government and Balonne Shire Council.
This event is being delivered independently a group of members who are independent tutors, including Penelope Gilbert-Ng, Tony Walker, Szczepan Urbanowicz, Val Pettingill, Sandy Dunstan, and Marion Hughes and facilitated by Jenny Loveday, who is happy to answer any questions you may have. WSQ is supporting the event and managing the grant funds received for this initiative. All workshop arrangements, schedules, accommodation, and program details are coordinated directly by the organiser.
Follow Jenny's Facebook Feed for regular glimpses into the art and culture currently flourishing in the Balonne Shire.
24-27 April (Main Paint Out Day 26 April)
Come for a day or come for the full four-day event! Paint alone or in a group.
Main Contact: Jenny Loveday - jennylovedayjp@gmail.com
About the Event
The Balonne Shire ART Paint Out is a relaxed, shire-wide creative event welcoming artists of all levels and all mediums. Set on the banks of the Balonne River in St George, it is a celebration of place, people, and creativity.
The centrepiece is the ART Paint Out Day on Sunday 26 April, with artists painting and drawing in designated areas along the Balonne River, either individually or in groups, at their own pace. You may work from the landscape or use your own reference images. Guidance from established artists is available if desired.
The public is warmly invited to stroll the riverbank, watch artists at work, and contribute to a large-scale collaborative artwork. All proceeds support young artists in the Balonne Shire.
The Regional Arts Development Fund is a Queensland Government initiative through an Arts Queensland and Balonne Shire Council partnership in support of local arts and culture.
KEYDETAILS
WHEN
24-27 April
26 April - Main Day
WHERE
Balonne Shire
St George, QLD
WHO
All levels · All mediums
COST
$30 per day · $120 for the full experience
Excursion Overview
Day 1
Friday 24 April · Agricultural Landmarks
Start at the heritage-listed Anchorage Homestead and Woolshed, then venture out to St George's cotton fields and native eucalyptus groves. The day ends with a relaxed Meet & Greet at the Harmony Centre, with complimentary drinks and an informal exhibition.
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Day 3
Sunday 26 April · Main Paint Out Day
The heart of the event. From sunrise, artists spread out along the Balonne River between the Amphitheatre and ANZAC Park — painting at their own pace, in any medium, at any skill level. St George Rotary will be on site with a sausage sizzle, and a coffee van will keep you going. The public is welcome to join in a large-scale community artwork. Works may be donated or sold in support of young local artists.
Day 2
Saturday 25 April · ANZAC Day
Paint the iconic Walking Trees below Jack Taylor Weir — ancient specimens with dramatic root systems in a stunning riverside setting. In the afternoon, join a quiet reflective session at ANZAC Park, then wind down with the optional Sandytown Sunset River Cruise (approx. $45), complete with complimentary wine and nibbles.
Day 4
Monday 27 April · Local Culture
A leisurely final day exploring the region. Visit the Nindigully Rustic Pub on the Moonie River (established 1864), sketch and stroll at Riversands Winery, and browse the Unique Egg and New Creations Gallery before heading home.
Join Us Your Way
Pre-registration is recommended but you are welcome to sign-up on the day.
Option | Price |
|---|---|
Individual Days | $30 per day |
Main Paint Out Day only | $30 |
Full 4-Day Experience | $120 |
Mix and match days to suit your schedule — there's no wrong way to join in. Your registration supports event coordination and fundraising for young artists in the Balonne Shire.
What's Included & What's Not
Inclusions
Welcome bag, fully coordinated program with curated painting locations, on-the-ground support, artist demonstrations and mentoring, talks from local artists about their connection to Country, and the chance to contribute to the Paint Out fundraiser.
Exclusions
Accommodation, meals, personal art supplies, travel to/from St George, and optional activity fees (river cruise ~$45, bus transport ~$35/day, winery lunch ~$60).
Accommodation and Travel
Participants arrange their own accommodation and travel. Limited rooms are pre-reserved at a local caravan park and the Australian Hotel, St George — contact us for recommendations. A Brisbane–St George return bus may be available depending on demand; express your interest when registering.
What to Bring
Chair · Easel (optional) · Paints, brushes & water · Sketchbook or visual diary · Camera · Hat, sunscreen & insect repellent · Comfortable shoes
Registration Form
To securely register for the event, complete the registration form below or download an information pack and return the completed registration form as per the instructions.