PLATYPUS lovers and arts admirers alike are gearing up for this week’s springtime extravaganza, the Clearwater Sculpture Prize, now in its second year.

Although not in contention, as it’s been commissioned by the City Council, a large ‘Platypus’ sculpture made by Queanbeyan Artist Neil Dickinson will be one of the highlights, with Picton mosaic artist Freya Jobbins will be on hand to lead free mosaic workshops on site to complete the sculpture. Community members are welcome to come and participate in the creation of the city’s latest public artwork.

In a kind of ‘Sculpture by the River,’ 30 sculptures will be installed along the river bank on the eastern foreshore of the river – in front of the Riverbank Café via Trinculo Place or Waniassa Street. A handful will be installed in/on the river itself.

The Major Award of $5,000 and the Encouragement Award of $1,000 will be announced during the Queanbeyan River Festival at noon this Saturday, October 17, on the main stage.

The viewing public is welcome to have their say and vote for the ‘People’s Choice Award’ of $1,000 and the ‘Children’s Choice Award’ of $500.

The second annual Queanbeyan Clearwater Sculpture Prize, on the banks of the Queanbeyan River, Friday Oct. 16 – Sunday Oct, 18 October, part of the Queanbeyan River Festival, Saturday October 17.