Wednesday 18 February 2009

Extraordinary response to Clutha Country photo competition

Judges of the 2009 Clutha Country Photographic Competition will soon begin the difficult task of selecting winners, following a huge number of quality entries.

Council’s Communications Coordinator Jamie Shaw said more than 500 photographs from 60 different entrants were received across the three categories – ‘Living’, ‘Playing’ and ‘Working’ in Clutha Country.

Mr Shaw said the quality and variety of the photos submitted was incredible, with entries received from all over the district.

He said it was also pleasing to hear numerous positive comments about the beauty of Clutha Country from many of those who entered.

“Several entrants remarked they had such a great time travelling around the district looking for potential photo opportunities. The scenic beauty, as well as the enthusiasm and vibrancy of people in Clutha Country really shines through in these photographs and this is exactly what we were after when we launched this competition.”

The three competition judges – Otago Daily Times Illustrations Editor Stephen Jaquiery, District Development Board Chairman Jeff Seymour and local photographer Ivan Coutts – will shortly begun the unenviable task of deciding on the winners.  

The photograph judged best for each category will receive $500, while runner-ups will each receive $200. There is also a $1,000 prize for the best overall portfolio (minimum three photographs in each category).

The winners will be announced in early March, while the general public will have the chance to view all the entries once they have been uploaded to the Clutha District Council website next month.

The photos will be used in a range of publications and promotional material produced by Council, the District Development Board and other associated organisations. Local community groups and organisations will also be able to use the images on request.

ENDS