The winners of the 2026 Lord Mayor’s Photographic Awards have been crowned, showcasing everything from rainy city streets and backyard summers to local wildlife and river views.
This year’s theme, Everyday Brisbane, invited anyone who lives, works or studies in the city to share their view of Brisbane life — from familiar landmarks and suburban streets to wildlife, cultural traditions and quiet moments with family and friends.
Gordon Park photographer Tyler Sharman won the Open Category for Rush Hour, showing a lone pedestrian racing to escape a downpour at the corner of Edward and Adelaide streets.
Wynnum’s Nigel Wesley placed second with Shooting the Breeze, capturing neighbours enjoying an afternoon chat, while Bulimba’s Jonathan Wood placed third with Australia — a nostalgic image of a child enjoying a sprinkler and a trampoline on a summer day.
Maria Pena won the Student Category for Quiet Mornings, while Lewis Bin Doraho received the Lavonne Bobongie Award for Flying Low, featuring a Super Hornet during a Riverfire practice run.
The Green Heart Category went to Nicolas Willemsen for a colourful portrait of two sulphur-crested cockatoos, while Alex Harding won the Social Media Category with When the Fountains Sleep, showing two friends walking outside the Queensland Art Gallery at night.
Three photographs were also chosen for the new Brisbane Postcards Collection including:
• Laurie McDonnell’s Colours of the City, featuring the Kangaroo Point Bridge lit for Brisbane Festival,
• Wendy Klein’s sunset skyline Brisbane Afterglow,
• and Nicola Laidlow’s Brisbane Festival, celebrating the city’s love of outdoor events.
Twenty-three People’s Choice finalists will now compete for the public vote.
Voting opens at 10am on Monday 3 August via the Council website.
People can see the winning photographs and People’s Choice finalists at free exhibitions across Brisbane:
• Museum of Brisbane: 1 August to 1 November
• Brisbane Square: 3 August to 28 August
• Brisbane Airport Domestic Terminal: 3 August to 31 August
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner
“The best thing about Brisbane isn’t just our skyline or river. It’s the lifestyle we enjoy every day.
“These images capture the moments that make people fall in love with our city, from sunrise on the river to afternoons in our suburbs.
“With more than 2,200 entries, it’s clear Brisbane residents love where they live and are proud to share the moments that make our city unique.
“I encourage everyone to visit the free exhibition, discover a new perspective on Brisbane and vote for their favourite People’s Choice photo.”
