Talented young shutterbugs' photo finish

Talented young photographers Bailey Cannell (13yrs) and Freya Porter (8yrs) have taken top honours in Noosa Council’s Landscape and Wildlife Junior Photography Competition.

Bailey’s picture of a rain soaked spider web earned him a $250 voucher from Camera House – first prize in the 12-17 year age group.

Freya won first prize in the under-12s category – a $200 voucher from Camera House – for her picture depicting the view from Mt Tinbeerwah.

Noosa Council Sustainability Project Officer Emma Menzies congratulated the two winners, adding that the judges were impressed with the quality of all of the entries received.

“With so many stunning images from budding young photographers across the shire our judges have had a tough task choosing just two winners.”

Second-place-getters Jade Clarke (13yrs) and Lexie Ladd (9yrs) will each receive a 20-Visit Family Swim Pass for the Noosa Aquatic Centre valued at $225, and third-place-getters Kate Knowles (12yrs) and James Harding (10yrs) each received two photography books and $20 go cards.

All entries are on display at the Noosaville Library. The competition aims to encourage young people to take an interest in the natural environment.

Cr Tony Wellington, himself a keen photographer, was on hand on Friday to congratulate the winners and present them with their prizes. Cr Wellington said the images would undoubtedly inspire others.

"The images by these clever young photographers will help remind others of the significant natural beauty with which we are surrounded. It doesn't hurt any of us to stop and count our blessings every now and then," he said.

Entrants were asked to submit a picture of native local flora and fauna, insects and spiders, natural landscapes, or images that show the connection between people and the natural environment.

The Noosa Library exhibition will run until 19 June.

Ms Menzies thanked Camera House Noosa for its support of the competition.

10 June 2015