THE Derwent Valley Council’s photographic competition has attracted almost 300 entries. The best photos in each category have been chosen to be part of an exhibition at the New Norfolk Library which opens on Tuesday, October 25.

Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said she was thrilled to see the level of engagement from the community and the quality and breadth of the entries.

“The quality of the entries has been fabulous,’’ she said. “It’s been lovely to see our region through the eyes of residents and visitors, to see the beauty of the Valley in their everyday activities and showcase what they value about this beautiful place we call home.”

The exhibition will culminate in an awards event where the winner in each category will be announced, including a a newly created Youth Participation category. “We had such a great response from young people that we decided to create a youth category to showcase some of their best entries,’’ Mrs Dracoulis said.

“As a professional photographer myself, I’m extremely excited to meet our budding photographers and to celebrate all of our finalists’ entries.” The competition finalists between 9am and 5pm until Friday, November 11.

However, public voting closes on Octovber 31. A panel of industry and local personalities will judge the entries, with the public and judges’ votes being combined to determine the winners. The winner of each category will receive a professionally framed print of their entry and a photobook of the finalist entries.

Photobooks will also be available to buy on the night. The awards event will be held at the library at 6.30pm, Friday, November 11. The event is free but registration through eventbrite.com.au is required.