Photos go on show
The official opening of the Warragul Camera Club’s 45th National Photographic Exhibition on Sunday showcased a wonderfully curated exhibition of photographs selected from the 2018 competition.
The competition, held at the Warragul Downtowner over the weekend, is one of only three national competitions and exhibitions conducted in Victoria each year.
Instigated by Roy Berryman in conjunction with the Shire of Warragul in 1972, it attracts national exhibitors keen to have their work recognised in a jury process that demands high standards and is thus approved by the Australian Photographic Society.
Local photographer Louise Sedgman was MC for the official opening at which she welcomed Baw Baw Shire CEO Alison Leighton.
Ms Leighton believed the event was a testimony to the health of a community, acknowledging the growth in club membership and the fact that over 1600 entries had come from all states in Australia, except the Northern Territory.
Warragul and Drouin Gazette editor Carolyn Turner presented awards for the successful exhibitors in the long-running Gazette Readers’ Photographic Competition.
Ms Turner pointed out that this year was the first that a digital competition was conducted. She said 184 entries were received, eight of which received highly commended nominations in addition to first, second and third places.
Warragul Camera Club member Linda Keagle was winner of the most successful local exhibitor and Jake Trotman the most successful first time national entrant.
Local graphic designer Bruce Langdon spoke on behalf of the Melbourne Photographic Studies College that supported the return of the senior secondary school component.
Secondary schools were invited to submit student images portraying an aspect of school life. With the most acceptances, Warragul Regional College won a day in the Photographic Studies College’s professional studio.