Presented by Nevetts Lawyers, the winner of the 2025 Open Program award is judged by a panel of industry experts and receives a $2,000 prize in memory of Dr Stephen Hennessy. Additional honours include the Ballarat Arts Alive Award and the Hygge Property Award.

Winner of the 2025 Open Program award in memory of Dr Stephen Hennessy: ELLI BARDAS for the exhibition Wild Things, located on the exterior of the Ballarat Mining Exchange. Viewing access via Lydiard Street North (Federation University Campus).

IAN KEMP: Winner of the Ballarat Arts Alive Award for the exhibition 1 in 4, presented at Mr Jones Dining, Main Road Ballarat.

SETAREH HOSSEINI: Winner of the Hygge Property Award for the exhibition Emigrabilia, presented at Roy Hammond, Armstrong Street North Ballarat.

Visit over 100 Open Program exhibitions by exploring Ballarat and beyond, and vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award.