Student Diary Artwork Competition

Diary Entry #5

Introducing your winning artwork...

The piece was designed by Ella Elton, a fourth year Occupational Therapy student based at Coffs Harbour.

"The design for this year’s diary is inspired by the rich, earthy colours of the Australian landscape and the vibrant tones of the Southern Cross University logo. It draws on elements of Indigenous art to tell a story of connection, place, and growth. The symbols on the cover represent the Gold Coast, Lismore, and Coffs Harbour campuses, and together they reflect a connected community, one where students, staff, and Country are all part of something bigger. The yellow dotted pathway are traces of the east coast of Australia, grounding the design in place and reminding us of the land SCU is built on..."

"...The red flowering gum, a native plant symbolising resilience and beauty. Just like this flower, students often bloom in unexpected ways, even in tough conditions. Its presence on the cover is a reminder of how we can grow, adapt, and thrive during our time at university."

The student diary artwork competition will be returning in 2026!

Keep an eye on this page for more information to be included at a later date.