IPSWICH’S youngest artists are being invited to put their own stamp on the festive season, with Mayor Teresa Harding launching her fifth annual Christmas Card Competition and adding a new prize for creative use of colour.
Open to primary school students based in Ipswich, the free competition asks children to capture what they love best about Christmas in their city.
Winning designs from two age groups will feature on the Mayor’s official 2026 Christmas card, sent to community leaders, organisations and businesses across Ipswich and beyond.
“I need some help to design my official Christmas card. I am asking Ipswich primary school children to create a card cover that captures what they love best about Christmas in Ipswich,” Mayor Harding said.
“This year, I am also very excited to announce a brand-new category, the Best Use of Colour Award. This special award will recognise an entry that demonstrates exceptional creativity through vibrant colour used in their design, allowing us to celebrate even more talented young artists across our city.”
From backyard barbecues to familiar Ipswich landmarks, previous entries have offered a glimpse of the people, places and traditions that make Christmas special for local children.
Mayor Harding said schools had embraced the competition, with hundreds of entries arriving each year.
Entries will be judged in two age categories: Prep to Year 2 and Year 3 to Year 6.
Entries close at 4pm on November 20, with entry forms available by emailing mayor@ipswich.qld.gov.au or from Mayor Harding’s Facebook page.
Completed entries can be posted to PO Box 191, Ipswich Q4305, or delivered directly to Council at 1 Nicholas St.
