The tranquil foreshore of Lake Jindabyne transformed into a dazzling promenade as the Lake Light Sculpture 2025 closed its curtains on what has been an extraordinary event. Attracting nearly 22,000 attendees, the festival made a remarkable comeback after years of challenges, including adverse weather and event relocations.
Over the span of four illuminated nights, visitors were treated to the spectacle of 70 large-scale sculptures accompanied by over 30 smaller works housed at Horizons, Jindabyne. The impeccable weather worked its magic, drawing in visitors to revel in the festivities, particularly the much-loved ‘Light It Up’ nights that showcased sculptures in their glowing grandeur against the backdrop of a starry night sky.
PHOTO: Sian Watson’s “Gathered Skylark” CREDIT: Raglan Gallery Cooma
The festival not only enchanted visitors but also celebrated local and emerging artists, with $43,500 in prize money awarded across 13 categories. The experienced eyes of Rebel Penfold-Russell, Denise Ferris, and Anwen Keeling evaluated the entries. Sian Watson took home the Major Award with her piece “Gathered Skylark,” while the People’s Choice Award went to Madelaine Last for her work “Conspiracy at Copper Tom.”
PHOTO: Madelaine Last’s “Conspiracy at Copper Tom” CREDIT: Madelaine Last
In a memorable twist, “The Big Chairlift” by Darragh Walsh, a much-adored piece, will remain permanently in Jindabyne following a successful community fundraising campaign. Supported by local organisations and individuals, the fundraiser, which included a significant contribution from Doppelmayr, exceeded $25,000. Snowy Monaro Regional Council Mayor Chris Hanna and the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce were among the enthusiastic supporters who rallied to keep this local favourite.
PHOTO: Darragh Walsh with his Big Chairlift piece CREDIT: Darragh Walsh
“The organising committee, volunteers, and the entire community deserve immense credit,” said Dani Kel, Chair of the event committee. “Twenty-five years is a huge milestone, and we’re already gearing up for a spectacular celebration in 2026.”
The dedication of more than 70 sponsors and tireless volunteers played a crucial role in bringing this year’s event to life. Visitors and organisers alike heralded the event’s success. Ingrid Solomons remarked, “Well done to all the artists, volunteers and organisers – it’s so great to see Lake Light back.”
As anticipation grows for its 25th anniversary in 2026, the committee is calling on artists, schools, and sponsors to begin planning for what promises to be an unforgettable milestone. Feedback is being actively sought to further enhance the event, with everyone encouraged to share their thoughts via a post-event survey.
For further updates and to follow the journey to 2026, enthusiasts can connect through Instagram @lakelightsculpture or visit the festival’s website at lakelightsculpture.com.au.
Award Winners:
– Major Award: Sian Watson – Gathered Skylark (#52)
– People’s Choice Award: Madelaine Last – Conspiracy at Copper Tom (#12)
– Illumination Award: Jordan Tarlinton – Clarity (#13)
– Clean Energy Environment Award: Ulan Murray & Rachel Burns – Echo of the Ribbon Gums (#62)
– Emerging Artist: Tom Buckland – Flock (#42)
– Youth Award: Jessica Hellyar – The Everlasting Whoops-a-Daisy (#31)
– Waste to Art Award: Madelaine Last – Conspiracy at Copper Tom (#12)
– Secondary School Award: Snowy Mountains Grammar School – We Live Among the Stars (#29)
– Primary School Award: Jindabyne Public School Year 1 – Joyful Jingling Jellyfish (#30)
– Early Childhood Award: Gidgillys Childcare – In the Night Garden (#48)
– Community Award: TS Orion – Navy Cadets – TS Scrapwave (#45)
– Newcomer Award: Michael Ferris – Framework of Growth (#17)
– Smalls Exhibition Major Award: Maria Zylinski – Cocoon
– Smalls People’s Choice Award: Alexander Dalton – Patch and Mum (#96)