Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026: Discover the Creative Heart of the Hinterland

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Sat 06 Jun 2026 - Sun 28 Jun 2026

This June, the Samford Valley and its neighbouring communities will once again transform into a vibrant open-air gallery, as the Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026 returns for four inspiring weekends of creativity, connection and discovery.

Spanning more than 30 venues and showcasing the work of 73 local artists, the self-guided trail invites visitors to step behind the studio door, meet the makers and experience art where it’s created.

Image Credit (L-R): Bruce Ellem: Dinosaur Capers, Pencil on Paper, 2021; Colleen Lavender: Unbridled Freedom, Steel, 2025; Renuka-Russell-Vincent's World in Vietnam - Oils on Canvas, 2024; Maggie Moore: Raku Fired Clay, 2025

A month-long celebration of creativity

Running across 6–7, 13–14, 20–21 and 27–28 June 2026, with venues open from 10am to 3pm, the Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail stretches across:
• Samford and surrounds
• Dayboro and surrounds
• Eatons Hill
• Bunya

From leafy backyards and purpose-built studios to village galleries and pop-up spaces, each stop on the trail offers something different, creating a rich and diverse arts experience suitable for all ages.

73 artists, 30+ venues, endless inspiration
Visitors can explore an impressive range of artistic practices, including:
• Painting and illustration
• Ceramics and pottery
• Sculpture
• Jewellery
• Printmaking
• Textiles and fibre art
• Mixed media and experimental works

Many venues will host live demonstrations, artist talks and interactive experiences, offering a rare glimpse into the creative process. Watch a painting come to life, see clay transformed into beautiful forms, or chat with artists about their inspiration, techniques and materials.

Trails Organiser Cindy Werchon says this year’s trail is set to be the biggest and most exciting yet.

"This year is going to be our biggest yet with over 30 venues and 73 artists, and the standard of art this year is amazing. We have a huge range of artists that the public will enjoy, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to meet local creatives, explore studios and discover the incredible artistic talent within our region."

Image Credit (L-R): Cindy Werchon: Gang Gang, Coloured Pencil, 2025; Daniella D Cruz: A Good Day. Starts Here, Acrylic on Canvas, 2025; Glen Pacholke: Emus and a Murder, Acrylic on Board, 2025; Phil Cawthan: Sheds, Watercolour, 2026

New central hub in the heart of Samford

A major highlight of the 2026 trail is a new central venue in the heart of Samford, bringing together 20 artists in one location - The Shed (Samford Community Church) 44 Mount Glorious Road Samford Village.

Perfect as a starting point for your trail adventure, this dynamic hub will feature:
• A curated showcase of work from 20 artists
• Daily demonstrations and artist talks
• A coffee van on-site, making it an ideal meeting and rest point between venues

Whether you're planning a full day of exploring or a relaxed few hours of browsing, the central hub makes it easy to dive into the trail and discover new favourites.

Image Credit (L-R): Ian North: Kaleidoscope of Colour, Watercolour, 2026; Pia Robinson: Buttons - Necklaces, 2025; Stella Danalis: Interaction Variant (in frame); Wendy Bailye: Felt, 2026

Roll up your sleeves: hands-on workshops

The 2026 program goes beyond viewing art, inviting visitors to get creative themselves through a range of hands-on workshops led by local artists.

Workshop experiences include:
•Felt pot making
• Paint and sip sessions
• Solarplate etching
• Watercolour for beginners
• Miniature terrarium garden making

These sessions are perfect for anyone wanting to try something new, develop their skills or simply enjoy a fun and memorable day out with friends and family.

Image Credit (L-R): Deb Pettigrew: First Light, Mixed Media, 2026; Ruth Ellington, Falling Flowers 2, Soft Sculpture, 2025

Community pride and creative placemaking

The Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail is proudly presented by Creative Samford, a volunteer-run organisation dedicated to supporting and showcasing local artists. The trail continues to grow each year as a celebration of the region’s vibrant creative community.

City of Moreton Bay is once again a major supporter of the event. Mayor Peter Flannery says the trail plays an important role in strengthening the region’s cultural identity.

“City of Moreton Bay recognises the importance of supporting community activities that foster participation in arts and cultural experiences, while also advancing the work of our local creative practitioners.

Supporting the 2026 Samford and Hinterland Arts Trail through our Community Activities Grant is just another way we can showcase the City’s diverse and unique arts landscape.

With more than 73 artists opening their creative spaces, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in interactive workshops and hands-on experiences, strengthening our City’s connection to the local arts scene.”

The event is made possible through the dedication of Creative Samford’s volunteer committee, including Pia Robinson (President), Cindy Werchon (Secretary and Trails Organiser), Carolyn Hohnke (Treasurer), Pam Taylor and Ian North (Event Committee Members), and Lana de Jager (Social Media).

Creative Samford gratefully acknowledges the support of its major sponsors, including City of Moreton Bay, Samford Hotel and Eckersley’s Art & Craft, whose backing helps nurture local creativity and ensure the trail’s ongoing success.

Image Credit (L-R): Lana de Jager: Repose, Solarplate Etching, 2023; Peter Campbell: Point Cartwrighr, Oil on Canvas, 2024

Win while you wander: Trail Prize Draw

As you explore the trail, you’ll also have the chance to win a share of a prize pool valued at approximately $1000 in the Trail Prize Draw.

Prizes include:
• A two-night stay at Elm House Studio (valued at approximately $600)
• $250 voucher from Samford Jewellers
• $50 Ocean View Estate gift card
• $50 Samford Patisserie gift card
• $50 Baffies Oan Books gift card

An additional prize will be awarded to visitors who complete the Trail feedback survey after visiting one of the venues, so be sure to share your thoughts and help shape future events.

Image Credit - (L-R): Helen Evans: Cabbage Patch Lemons, 40x40x4cm, Acrylic on Cradled Wood Panel; Gabi Mika-McNaughton, Unbribied Passion, Oil on Linen, 2017; Kate Warby: Bangles, Resin, Sterling Silver 2, 2025; Margaret Turner: Early Morning Light in Maleny, Pastel, 2025

Plan your visit

Whether you’re an art collector, a casual browser, a weekend adventurer or a family looking for an engaging day out, the Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026 offers an inspiring and accessible way to connect with local creativity.

Event Details

What: Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026
When: 6–7, 13–14, 20–21, 27–28 June 2026
Time: 10am – 3pm each day
Where: Samford and surrounds; Dayboro and surrounds; Eatons Hill; Bunya

For artist listings, workshop bookings and trail information, visit:
Creative Samford presents ‘Samford and Hinterland Arts Trail 2026’ I Facebook I Instagram

Mark your calendar, gather your friends and family, and set out to explore the studios, galleries and hidden creative spaces of the Samford hinterland. The Samford & Hinterland Arts Trail 2026 is your invitation to experience art, meet the makers and discover the stories behind the work - all in the stunning surrounds of one of the region’s most picturesque communities.

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