Central Coast Council would like to congratulate Mr Ian English, who took out first place in the 2016 annual EXPOSURE competition for his unique photograph Burnt toast.

Announced at a well-attended ceremony Friday night, the image displays a thoughtful juxtaposition of calm and disarray, encapsulating his audience into a world of wonder.

Council’s Grants and Events Coordinator Mrs Ashlee Abbott said with such a high calibre of entrants this year the judges were set the almost impossible task of selecting a winner.

“In our fourth year we received over 400 entries from amateur and emerging photographers from all over Australia as well as some international submissions,” Mrs Abbott said.

“The quality of images just keeps getting better, with more expressive, personal and imaginative photos received than ever before.

“We would like to congratulate all the winners and thank everyone who entered.”

Prize winners in the 2016 EXPOSURE competition are:

• First Prize overall – Ian English for Burnt toast
• Second Prize overall – Hayley Spindler for Little Murri Warrior (Wyong Creek)
• Third Prize overall – Amie Lambert for He fought
• Highly commended Postcards of The Shire – John Chapman for Aiming High
• Highly commended Through the Generations – Sarah Harris for A moment in time
• Highly commended A Picture Tells 1000 Words – Kimberly Starr for Soul Catcher
• Highly commended The Natural World – Patricia Smith for Silvereye on Pods

Mrs Abbott also made special mention to our local prize winners, Hayley Spindler and Amie Lambert.

“Their images truly demonstrate the outstanding talent we have in our own backyard, capable of competing on an international stage,” Mrs Abbott added.

“I would encourage everyone to come along and view the 145 exceptional short listed entries now on exhibition at the Entrance Gallery.

“There is such a diverse array of images on display, many of which reflect our beautiful Coast, you will be left talking about them for weeks.”

The exhibition will be open to the public until Sunday 26 June, 10am – 4pm weekdays and 10am – 3pm weekends. Entry is free.

Visit www.wyong.nsw.gov.au/exposure for more information.