Announcing the 2024 Cycling Jersey Finalists

The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey competition has unveiled three talented youth artist finalists, marking an exciting milestone in showcasing the region's emerging artistic talent.

The 3 shortlisted designs for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Artist Competition.

With a remarkable influx of submissions from high school students across the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac Regional Council areas, the competition has been a testament to the abundance of creativity within our youth community.

Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her enthusiasm for the competition, stating, "We are excited to raise the profile of youth artists within our region, giving them the opportunity to have their artwork featured on about 1,000 cycling jerseys in 2024. This challenge is the perfect platform for young artists to kick-start their portfolio for a future career. There is so much talent in our region, and to showcase this on a larger scale with prize money is something we are very proud to be a part of."

Representing Sarina, Moranbah, and Mackay respectively, the three finalists have each captured the essence of the Mackay region in their unique designs, highlighting the beauty of the region and connection to the rivers, reef and community.

The artists’ local communities, schools, radio stations and families have rallied behind them on social media, showing incredible support and encouragement in this final stage.

Now, the public is invited to participate by casting their votes via the river2reefride.com.au website for their favourite design.

The winner will not only have their artwork featured on this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride jersey on Sunday 1st September but will also take home $500.

The runner up and 3rd place receive $250 and $100 respectively.

“We can’t wait to make this an annual competition for our local Youth Artists” says Event Director Nikki Giles.

“This has been the first year that we have run this competition. Our high school students are so talented, it’s such a privilege for us to be a part of their journey.”

Voting closes on Sunday 24th March.  The winner will be announced on Wednesday 3rd April. The winning jersey can be purchased as part of registering for this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival. All profits from the event and jerseys are distributed to RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

For more information about the Youth Design Challenge and the submission process, please visit https://www.river2reefride.com.au.