DOZENS of talented young students submitted their artwork to the Wings over Wetlands art competition, signalling a renewed interest in the environment and our wetlands.
The competition organisers – Port Stephens Council, Port Stephens’ Sister Cities Committee, Port Stephens Community Arts Centre, and the Japanese city of Kushiro, with which Port Stephens holds a Sister Wetlands agreement – were delighted at the level of participation from local young people.
Hidenori Tsuruma, Mayor of Kushiro, said that it was very encouraging that 38 of the entries were from school students.
“Their participation reflects growing interest in wetlands and migratory birds among children and demonstrates how wetlands education is taking root in the community,” he said.
So it was no surprise that the overall winner, Emily Anderson, is a Year 9 Student at Tomaree High School.
Emily, who lives at Fingal Bay, has been painting since she was six.
She produced strikingly beautiful artwork of several of the migratory birds that fly for thousands of kilometres to reach our wetlands each year.
She described winning as “a little bit overwhelming, but so good,” before walking away with a cash prize of $2000.
No less impressive were the works of Madeline Phelps, who won the High School student category (but was not present at the ceremony), and runner-up Chloe Maguire.
A story that resonated with everyone was that of former Tomaree Public School student Logan Currie.
Logan came in first in the Primary School category, with an artwork depicting the migratory Latham’s Snipe created through a collage and marker drawings.
A double amputee due to complications from a previous medical condition, Logan only started his artistic career this year, but is determined to keep going and improve in the future.
“Everyone is proud of me,” he said.
After walking up to accept his prize, Logan was unfortunately affected by a bout of shyness.
Luckily Councillor Roz Armstrong, one of the judges of the event, was there to relay the celebratory speech that Logan had prepared: “Hot dog!”
By Nico LOMBARDO
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