Waste to Art encourages artists – including children – to take waste products like ordinary household items destined for the rubbish, and make creative art pieces on the theme of “light”.

The winner of the open community section was Warren Barwick, who impressed judge Anne Knight with his entry of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Mayor Owen Hasler said many talented people started their life in Gunnedah, including sculptor Tanya Bartlett who council had talked to during the week about her idea for bronze koala statues in Conadilly Street.

Cr Hasler said he also would like to see an artwork of a soaring eagle on Pensioner’s Hill.

The project was co-ordinated by council’s exhibitions and cultural programs co-ordinator Fonda Blackwell, senior environmental health officer Sue Cox and youth development officer Sewa Emojong.

“Engaging with schools has been really important to the success of this project and all were invited to exhibit works, with many already promoting the concept of ‘reduce, re-use and recycle’ in their curriculum,” Ms Cox said.

“This project has been another fun way to encourage our youth to become ‘environmental warriors.”

Mrs Knight said all entrants needed to be congratulated for “having a go”.

Winners were announced across four categories – early childhood, preschools, primary schools, secondary schools and open community, with a People’s Choice Award. The category winners each won $100 in prize money.

The exhibition will be on display at the Creative Arts Gallery in Chandos Street until Friday, November 20.