Get your camera ready and put your photography skills to the test with entries now open for the annual Macarthur Nature Photography Competition.

The competition encourages amateur photographers to explore the Macarthur area and enter their most striking and enticing image taken in the local area, with winners sharing in a prize pool up to $3,000.

This year’s themes include:

• Flora - showcasing the diverse array of native flora found within the Macarthur region (i.e. plants, flowers, trees, leaves, bark);
• Fauna – celebrating the unique native fauna found within the Macarthur region (i.e. birds, mammals, invertebrates, reptiles, amphibians);
• Waterways - reflecting an aspect of the lakes, rivers and creeks of the Macarthur region (i.e. Thirlmere Lakes, Georges River, Nepean River and their tributaries);
• Landscapes of Macarthur - Panoramic images of characteristic landscapes and views of the Macarthur highlighting the unique features of the region (i.e. sunsets/sunrises, local nature reserves, and national parks); and
• Backyard Biodiversity (new category for 2020) - Images taken from your backyard, balcony or local park highlighting native plants or wildlife.

Mayor of Camden, Cr Theresa Fedeli, said the competition was a great opportunity for budding photographers to appreciate local beauty.

“We are lucky enough to be living in an area bustling with native flora and fauna, as well as beautiful waterways and views that take the breath away from us all,” Cr Fedeli said.

“All of these beauties make for wonderful photos and I am sure there will be many local photographers who may find a new location in the heart of the Camden area while snapping away for the competition.

“Cameras come in all shapes and forms these days, so I encourage everyone to get out and about safely to snap a shot on their smart phone, iPad or camera and enter their best photo into the annual competition.”

The Macarthur Nature Photography Competition is open to the following categories:

• Primary school aged (five to 12 years);
• High school aged (13-18 years); and
• Open (18 years and over).

For more information on the Macarthur Nature Photography Competition or to enter your photo, go to camden.nsw.gov.au/environment/biodiversity/mnpc/