NAIYA LUCZYNSKI WINS 2024 BMA RIVER 2 REEF RIDE YOUTH ART COMPETITION!

Moranbah State High School artist Naiya Luczynski has emerged as the winner of the highly anticipated 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Youth Art Competition, capturing the hearts of event followers and the community with her breathtaking design.

After a week-long voting period, which saw more than 1,500 individual online votes cast, Naiya's design stood out as a true representation of the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay.

From Left: Linda Murry (General Manager of BMA’s Hay Point Coal Terminal), Youth Art Finalists Abbie Boulton (Sarina State High School) and Amelia Webber (Holy Spirit College Mackay).

Naiya was one of three finalists whose designs were recognised for their high standard. The other finalists included Amelia Webber from Holy Spirit College Mackay and Abbie Boulton from Sarina State High School.

Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, expressed her satisfaction with the competition, stating, "The competition has achieved its goal of unearthing the artistic talent of high school students in the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac Regions. We were blown away by the creativity and skill displayed by Naiya, Amelia, Abbie, and all the participants. We look forward to making this an annual competition and continuing to showcase the incredible talent in our region."

Our 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride Sponsors, Youth Artist Finalists and representatives from RACQ CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

 Linda Murry, General Manager of BMA’s (BHP Mitsubishi Alliance) Hay Point Coal Terminal, congratulated Naiya on her win, stating, "Naiya's design beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Mackay region, showcasing its natural beauty and sense of community. We are thrilled to see her talent recognised and are proud to have her design featured on this year's BMA River 2 Reef Ride Cycling Jersey."

Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride Event Director, echoed the sentiment, saying, "Naiya's artwork was impressive. Her design not only captures the essence of Mackay but also embodies the spirit of camaraderie and adventure that defines our event. We can't wait to see her vision come to life on the cycling jerseys at this year’s event."

Youth Art Finalist and Winner: Naiya Lucynski’s cycling jersey design.

In her artist statement, Naiya shared her inspiration behind the design, stating, "My design is inspired by the beauty and diverse landscapes of Mackay. 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 5:30 am event start. Sugar cane symbolises the 'Sugar City' and 2 riders symbolising mateship and community. The palette is inspired by Mackay and also sponsor BMA. I have taken inspiration from Mackay Harbour. The lighthouse represents where land meets reef, also symbolising 'lighting the way' in unity to raise funds for charity in community spirit."

Naiya's design perfectly encapsulates the essence of the BMA River 2 Reef Ride and celebrates the beauty of the Mackay region. Congratulations, Naiya, on this well-deserved achievement!