Residents, school and community groups are getting ready to again take part in the Blayney Hay Bale Art Challenge.

The annual challenge – supported by Blayney Shire Council, the Blayney Town Association and the progress associations at Barry, Newbridge and Hobbys Yards – is set to impress the visitors and cyclists who will travel to the area to participate in the annual Blayney 2 Bathurst (B2B) Cycling event.

The B2B is now part of the Bathurst Cycling Classic.

Organisers are encouraging locals along the B2B cycling route from Blayney to Bathurst to nominate their interest to build a hay bale sculpture.

“It’s estimated more than 5000 visitors and locals will travel to the area to see this year’s Blayney Hay Bale Art Challenge,” Blayney mayor Scott Ferguson said.

“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 Monday,  April 16 in a Tour de France-style warm welcome.”

The challenge will be held from April 16-23 and artworks will be judged and winners announced on Tuesday, April 17. There will also be a People’s Choice Award.

Expressions of interest to build a hay bale sculpture should be submitted by April 2 by email to events@blayney.nsw.gov.au.