EVERY year, from the distant islands of northern Japan, migratory birds fly an astounding 8500 km to Australia, only to end up in our very own Hunter Wetlands.
To celebrate the annual event and highlight the importance of maintaining our local biodiversity, Port Stephens Sister Cities Committee, alongside Port Stephens Council and the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre, organised the Wings Over Wetlands Art Competition, tasking local artists with depicting the migratory birds.
The competition was held in partnership with Kushiro, the sister city of Port Stephens in northern Hokkaido, where many of these birds, including the Latham’s Snipe, come from.
More than 100 entries were received from both adults and students, with the winners receiving cash prizes and the thrill of seeing their artwork turned into banners that will be displayed in Apex Park and Yacaaba Street in Nelson Bay, as well as in Raymond Terrace.
“The judges were blown away by the creativity, warm colours and deep understanding of shorebirds,” said Meryl Miller, from the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre.
“What really touched the panel was how well the young artists captured the story of migration, showing the connection between Japan, Port Stephens, and our local wetlands.”
The overall winner of the competition, the Year 9 student Emily Anderson, received a $2000 cash prize.
The Primary School category was dominated by Logan Currie in first place, with Isla Trott second; Madeline Phelps and Chloe Maguire were first and second place respectively in the High School category; Elena Leong won the Open division, with Amanda McDonald runner-up.
Hidenori Tsuruma, Mayor of Kushiro, sent a special message to all the participants and the residents of Port Stephens.
“The Latham’s Snipe, which migrates between Kushiro and Australia, is a symbol of the sister wetlands affiliation, connecting our two regions,” Mr Tsuruma said.
“I hope that this competition will inspire people to value and protect wetlands while passing on our long-standing friendships to future generations.”
All the artwork that was shortlisted in the competition will be displayed on the “Nellies” installation in Yacaaba Street, Nelson Bay, and it will also be available for viewing at Tomaree Library in Salamander Bay and at Raymond Terrace Library.
By Nico LOMBARDO
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