We warmly invite you to join us in celebrating the return of one of Australia’s most loved and richest awards for realistic portraiture - the biennial Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award. The $50,000 award celebrates portraiture in memory of the dedicated arts patron and supporter, Shirley Hannan and attracts hundreds of entries from many of Australia’s most respected artists.

Come along and enjoy the exhibition with a complementary exclusive new North of Eden Gin cocktail on arrival (for registered attendees), music will be laid down by DJ Cayce, and get creative at life sculpting in clay with artist Erica Watson in the Shirley Hannan Project Space.

The 2024 Judges are acclaimed artist Jude Rae, and independent curator, Dr Sarah Engledow.

We thank the generosity of our Award patrons Peter Hannan, David Hannan, and Lisa Herbert.

Exhibition opening event and Winner announcement: Fri 29 Nov, 6-8pm.

To be announced by guest speaker and award judge, Dr Sarah Engledow.

This event will also celebrate and announce the inaugural winners of the Sherbies Kids Portrait Prize at 6pm.

FREE event, all welcome. Bookings essential.

We open our doors from 5.30 pm, with the official opening at 6.00 pm.

Find out more about the Shirley Hannan National Portrait Award visit here. For more information about SECCA or the Opening Event, please email us at secca@begavalley.nsw.gov.au or call 02 6499 2201.

Proudly supported by Bega Valley Shire Council. With thanks to our event sponsors North of Eden Gin.