Cash prizes on offer for aspiring young creatives

ENTRIES are now open for the 2025 RAW Arts Awards for people aged 25 and under living, studying, or working primarily in Greater Bendigo.

The awards are offered across four categories – visual arts, literature, performing arts and short film, with prizes of $1500 for winners and $500 for highly commended entries.

Works submitted will also be featured in an exhibition and showcase.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the awards, which were established 28 years ago, illustrate the City’s commitment to fostering the talents and artistic pursuits of young people in the region.

“RAW is a great platform to encourage and support artmaking so that talented young artists, writers, performers and filmmakers can explore and grow their creativity,” she said.

“Many past winners are now practising professionals in the creative arts industries.”

Last year’s RAW Awards attracted 88 entries from artists aged 7 to 25, with over 200 people attending the presentation and showcase at The Capital, and 270 people visiting the exhibition at Dudley House.

Entrants must be 25 years and under as of 5 June 2025 and can make one submission per category.

Entries close on Monday 5 May, with the awards to be announced and presented on Thursday 5 June at The Capital.

For any questions about the application process, email [email protected].

Work that doesn’t meet the guidelines may not be included in the judging or presentation and the judges’ decision is final.

Submissions can be made on the Bendigo Region website at bendigoregion.com.au/arts-culture-theatres/form/raw-arts-awards-2025.