MARGHERITA Standing has won the Marnie Yeates Trophy for Nature Photography 2023 for the second year running with a captivating photo called ‘Moonlighting’.

The nineteenth C.ex Coffs Camera Club Nature Photo Competition celebrated opening night with an exhibition of the award winning and outstanding entries at the National Cartoon Gallery at The Bunker in Coffs Harbour.

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Event coordinator Michael Woltschenko told News Of The Area, “The opening night was very successful with over 80 people in attendance.”

The competition saw 97 images submitted by 42 entrants with birds, animals and landscapes being the most popular genres.

There were eighteen awards presented.

“The top images on display were able to convey the beauty of nature in its many forms ranging from small fungi right through to expansive landscapes,” said Michael.

“The natural world is angry at the moment with a changing climate and the continued loss of habitat.

“As an example, although I appreciate the necessity for a bypass of Coffs Harbour, I am still saddened to see the destruction caused to the local environment during the initial construction phase.

“Our Nature Photography exhibition is a reminder of the beauty that we have in our local environment.

“It is something we must never lose.

“I am hoping that the exhibition will attract a large audience over the coming month in support of our natural environment,” he said.

The competition judges were Steve Young, Mark Spencer and Helen Rushton.

Steve told NOTA, “I always look forward to the exhibition each year, so I can take in the majesty of the total event.

“Everyone who takes the time and effort to enter should be extremely proud of playing a part in making a very real and worthy exhibition.

‘Without them a handful of winners would not properly showcase the depth of talent we have here.

“As in previous years, we always have a tight field at the top with several standout images.

“But among the rest there are outstanding images also.

“The Baboon’s hand for example, was for me, one of the strongest stories with an emotional punch.

“I also think I am seeing a lift in photographers using light extremely well and this alone can add immeasurably for the viewer.”

Mark told NOTA, “Again, the creativity and technical ability of Coffs Coast photographers was beautifully demonstrated.

“The images were inspiring and a joy to look at.

“Anything with wings – birds and insects – can create a huge ‘wow’ factor for the judges.

“There were some dramatic black and white photos too.

“Well done contributors.”

Thanks go to the major sponsors Coffs C.ex Club, Camera House Coffs Harbour and to C.ex Coffs Camera Club members for assisting with organisation of this event.

“Particularly Annie Brauer who has been heavily involved in the organisation of the event since its inception in 2002,” said Michael.

“Thanks to the Bunker Gallery, coordinator Carolyn Roelofs and volunteer staff for hosting, preparing the display and supplying food and drinks.”

By Andrea FERRARI