Roma on Bungil Gallery Named Finalist in State Gallery Awards

Published on 06 October 2026

Maranoa Regional Council is proud to announce that the Roma on Bungil Gallery has been named a finalist in the 2026 Gallery and Museum Achievement Awards (GAMAA), presented by Museums & Galleries Queensland.

The gallery has been shortlisted in the Volunteer Museum/Gallery of the Year category for The Wealth: Portraits of Maranoa Locals, a collaborative exhibition between Roma on Bungil Gallery and Creative Injune. The project featured portraits of 30 Maranoa residents painted by Archibald Prize finalist Daniel Butterworth, capturing the stories, personalities and contributions of local people. Through this powerful collection, the exhibition celebrated the rich character, diversity and community spirit of the Maranoa region.

The Gallery and Museum Achievement Awards recognise excellence across Queensland's museums and galleries, celebrating outstanding achievements in exhibitions, programs, collections, volunteer contributions and community engagement.

Maranoa Regional Council Portfolio Chair for Arts and Culture, Councillor Meryl Brumpton, said the finalist recognition was a significant achievement for both the gallery and the wider community.

"Being named a finalist in these prestigious state awards is a wonderful recognition of the passion, dedication and creativity of everyone involved in bringing The Wealth to life," Cr Brumpton said.

"This exhibition highlighted what makes our region special, our people. Through sharing their stories and portraits, the gallery created a meaningful connection between our community, its history and its future."

"Our gallery volunteers, artists and participants should be incredibly proud of this achievement. It demonstrates that regional galleries can deliver projects of outstanding quality and cultural significance."

The judging panel recognised the gallery's strong volunteer contribution and community impact, placing the nomination in the Volunteer Museum/Gallery of the Year category.

The winners of the 2026 Museum and Gallery Achievement Awards will be announced at a presentation event at the Ipswich Art Gallery on Thursday, 8 October 2026.

Maranoa Regional Council congratulates the Roma on Bungil Gallery team and all those who contributed to the success of The Wealth: Portraits of Maranoa Locals.