By Natalee Kerr
After more than 1000 entries from local photographers for Geelong’s annual calendar competition, 24 images have made the shortlist.
Council has now invited the community to decide which 13 shots will feature in the city’s official 2020 calendar.
Armstrong Creek’s Ash Hughes, who won the front page image for the 2019 calendar for his sunset shot of Eastern Beach, described the competition as “nice exposure”.
“It’s very humbling to think that my photo was chosen to be on the cover of something that showcases our region,” he said.
“To think that it’s hanging up in possibly every ratepayer’s home in Geelong is pretty surreal.”
The full-time accountant said photography acts as a “relaxation” to his day-to-day life.
“It gets me out of the office,” he said.
“I’ve really tried to make time to get out there and do more of it… living down in such a beautiful area, it would be silly not to.”
This year’s competition invited local photographers of all abilities to submit their photos showcasing the region’s landscapes, architecture, urban spaces, nature, events and people.
Ash encouraged residents to cast their vote.
“Pick the ones that are visually appealing to you,” he said.
“Everyone will have their own opinion on what they like and don’t like…that’s the great thing about photography.”
More than 100,000 households across Geelong will receive the free calendar from early December.
Voting closes on 14 October at www.geelongaustralia.com.au/calendar/vote/default.aspx.
