From the Mayor - 29 July 2026
Mosman with its rich and longstanding artistic and creative history is rightfully placed as one of Australia’s premier arts and cultural communities. This has been reaffirmed, with a record-breaking 1,550 entries received for the 2026 Mosman Art Prize. The exceptional number of submissions is a testament to the strength and diversity of Australia’s artistic community and the outstanding quality of work being produced. It also presents a significant challenge for our Arts and Culture team in shortlisting the finalists. This year’s judge, Blair French, arts leader, curator, writer and CEO of Murray Art Museum Albury, will then face the difficult task of selecting the winners, including the prestigious $70,000 acquisitive prize, to be announced on the opening night, Thursday 20 August.
The Mosman Art Gallery is also investing in the next generation of artists through its new Art Club - After School program. Designed for students in Years 9 to 11, the eight-week course will help young artists build their skills, confidence and creative practice while learning from experienced tutors and connecting with like-minded peers. The program begins on Wednesday 5 August. For information, visit mosmanartgallery.org.au.
Our Library is also nurturing young minds with a fantastic line-up of activities for aspiring scientists and writers. As part of National Science Week, primary school students can enjoy an entertaining Liquid Nitrogen Show on Wednesday 12 August, followed by a special science-themed Storytime for preschoolers on Thursday 20 August.
Young writers will also take centre stage when the Mosman Youth Awards in Literature are announced on Friday 14 August. Established in 1993 and growing in popularity and prominence every year, this is always one of my favourite events. Come along and join me in hearing their stories and celebrating the creativity, inspiration and imagination of our local area students.
What an extraordinary line up of creative events and the perfect time to recognise and acknowledge the work of Council’s dedicated Community and Culture team members.
Following last month’s Extraordinary Council Meeting, work to refine the Mosman Masterplan is progressing at pace. I encourage everyone to stay informed and remain involved as the process continues. While there is a formal planning process we must follow, our focus remains on achieving the best possible outcome for the Mosman community. If you haven’t already, I encourage you to register for updates via yourvoicemosman.com.au/masterplan.
Thank you to our fantastic residents and school students who tended to our natural environment by participating in National Tree Day and Schools Tree Day last week.
It is therefore so distressing to advise that the recently planted ficus tree at Balmoral has been wantonly vandalised and staff believe it will have to eventually be replaced. More information will follow in the coming months.