With the changes to the B2B route, 2020 has presented itself as the perfect year to expand the traditional Hay Bale Art Challenge which has previously coincided with the timing and route of the B2B.

The Blayney Council have introduced two new categories all falling under the banner of a new brand ‘Sculptures by the Bush.’ A broad ‘Farm Art Challenge’ will allow for farmers with limited hay a chance to participate and the Scarecrow Competition will allow for residents with smaller residential proprieties a chance to get involved. The traditional Hay Bale Art Challenge will continue with residents across all of Blayney Shire encouraged to participate.

With the display period inclusive of the April School Holidays, the Sculptures by the Bush campaign will encourage visitors to the Blayney Shire. A digital map will be created of all registrations as well as places along the route encouraging tourists to stop for lunch, browse through local shops or visit local attractions in the Blayney Shire.

Blayney Shire Mayor, Scott Ferguson said, following the tremendous success of previous Hay Bale Art Challenges, the expanded event is expected to continue to grow in popularity and support from local residents, businesses and school groups who see the event as a great way to showcase the picturesque country landscape and celebrate Blayney Shire’s traditional agricultural heritage.

“It’s estimated that previously more than 5,000 visitors and locals travelled to the area to see previous Blayney Hay Bale Art Challenges and I’m sure they will be surprised at the creative art displays, decorated hay bales and sculptures that are expected to pop up in paddocks from early April,” Cr Ferguson said.

“We would love to see residents working together towards creating routes between the villages by groups of neighbouring residents all getting involved together,” said Cr Ferguson.

Sculptures will be on display from Monday 6 April – Monday 27 April with registrations now open on the Blayney Shire Council website. Entries close at midday on Thursday April 2.

We cannot wait to see what the community come up with!