Sarina’s inspiration to artists

Sarina Shire is fast becoming a leading regional town for recognised professional artists from a wide variety of artistic fields. 

Recent art and craft exhibits at the Sarina Tourists Art & Craft Centre are testament to the fact that Sarina artists have talent that is equivalent to their internationally recognised colleagues. 

There are over 40 professional artists in Sarina alone, who specialise in art and craft works ranging from wood turning, silk creations, acrylic and oil painting, doll and bear creations, wearable art, crocheting, weaving, applique, pottery, quilting, fibre arts and jewellery to name a few.

The growing number of artists residing in Sarina and displaying their work to visitors of the region, combined with the inspirational natural surrounds of the coast and fauna, appear to have branded Sarina as the new “Maleny” for Queensland with visitors looking for unique artistic presentations and inspiration in natural surrounds.

One of the region’s acclaimed artists, Mrs Ruth Osborne, has been recognised at the Australian Wool Awards in 2004 and continues to receive accolades from local and national art organisations for her wearable art. 

Mrs Osborne said ‘The reason for the high number of artists in the regions was the keen interest in local youth and residents to learn about arts and crafts, and the fact that Sarina itself provides inspiration to artists with its beautiful natural surrounds, scenic beaches and close community atmosphere.’

A further example of Sarina’s resident interest in the arts and crafts is the beautiful Sarina Fibre Arts Pictorial Quilt.  Toowoomba quilt designer, Pauline Rodgers instructed and guided more than 30 Sarina Fibre Arts members in designing the quilt.  Over two years, the Sarina artists produced this historical record of Sarina town and district and it is currently on display for visitors at the Sarina Library.

Located in the foothills of the Connors Range, Sarina has a population of over 3,900 with a total shire population of approximately 10,000. The town is situated on the Bruce Highway, 37 km south of Mackay and 307 km north of Rockhampton, and is noted for its wide main street with shady lawned centre plantations. 

Right on the doorstep of Sarina lies a host of picturesque sandy beaches, as well as many offshore islands. Mountain ranges provide an exciting contrast, boasting spectacular views of the surrounding area.