Ellen José Student Reconciliation Awards

The Ellen José Student Reconciliation Awards honour the life of Torres Strait Elder Ellen José (1951 - 2017). Ellen’s contribution to the arts and Bayside was outstanding and inspirational in raising awareness of reconciliation. Established in 2018, the Ellen José Student Reconciliation Awards are aimed at Bayside primary and secondary school students, bringing awareness of reconciliation to our young people, who are the future of Australia, through art and writing.

Entrants are asked to interpret "As a young person, what does reconciliation mean to you?" in their artwork or writing piece.

Up to $500 in prize money will be awarded in each category.

Important dates

Applications close on Friday 19 April 2024, 5pm
All applicants will be notified on the outcome of their application by 24 May 2024
The exhibition of 10 Finalist artworks and 10 Finalist written pieces will be held from 3 June to 28 July 2024 at Bayside City Council Corporate Centre, 76 Royal Ave, Sandringham VIC 3191
Winners will be announced at the Flag Raising Ceremony on Saturday 18 June 2024.

Writing and art award for secondary school students

Secondary school students are invited to create an artwork, write an essay or construct a poem that responds to ‘As a young person, what does Reconciliation mean to you?’

There are two categories: Years 7 to 10 and Years 11 to 12

The written piece can take the form of a poem or an essay and must be no longer than 500 words
Artworks must be completed on a single A3-sized piece of paper with no additional pieces hanging beyond the edges
Entries must be submitted as a Word document via our online application form by Friday 19 April, 5 pm
Students currently attending a secondary school within the Municipality of Bayside are eligible to enter
Maximum of 1 entry per student.

To enter follow this link: Enter writing piece or artwork for Ellen José Student Reconciliation Awards: secondary school division | Bayside City Council