The designs on the rhinos were created by students Jessica Betts, Will Hazzard, Belle Lordan and Zoe Monaro, through Dubbop Regional Council’s rhino sculpture competition.

Council administrator Michael Kneipp said the four entrance rhinos were the perfect way to showcase the superb talent of the city’s young residents.

“The work these students have produced, under the guidance of artist Jack Randell, is fantastic,” Mr Kneipp said.

“The unveiling of this sculptures just days before the beginning of the Artlands Conference is perfect timing as it gives delegates arriving for Artlands a taste of the depth of artistic talent we have here in Dubbo.”

The rhinos had to be bright, bold and vibrant, as well as reflective of Dubbo’s brand ‘time to smile’.

The entries were judged by a panel of representatives from Orana Arts, Dubbo Chamber of Commerce, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and Mr Randell.

The four winners were also given the opportunity to be mentored by the artist.

Mr Kneipp said the rhino sculptures first came to Dubbo as part of the Rhino Adventure campaign, and were now an iconic representation of the region.