Regional Development Australia Northern Rivers (RDA Northern Rivers) is proud to announce the winners of its regional photography competition, showcasing the beauty, character and diversity of the Northern Rivers.
The competition attracted an impressive 152 entries and 333 photographs, including 20 youth entrants, with submissions spanning the entire region, from Fingal Head to Yamba, Hastings Point to Dunoon.
Shortlisted locations also included Murwillumbah, Byron Bay, Lennox Head, Angourie, New Brighton Beach, Cudgen, Minnie Water and Maclean.
Reflecting the region’s natural appeal, 84 per cent of entries captured landscapes and nature, while 16 per cent highlighted people, working life and community events.
RDA Northern Rivers Chair Dr Susan Vinnicombe noted the high calibre of submissions and the strong regional representation. ‘This competition highlights not only the incredible talent across our communities, but also the unique environments, lifestyles and stories that make the Northern Rivers such a special place,’ she said.
A total of $1,500 in prizes was awarded, generously supported by local businesses.
2026 winners
Adult Category:
1st Prize – Renee Trezise ($500, Byron Photo Magic): ‘The Other Giant’s Causeway, Fingal Head’. Capturing the striking hexagonal basalt columns at Fingal Head against a soft sunset, with a long exposure framing Cook Island.
2nd Prize – Christine Evans ($300, Byron Photo Magic): ‘Holiday Fun, Yamba Sea Pool’. A vibrant moment at the Yamba sea pool, alive with activity and energy on a perfect holiday day.
3rd Prize – Rachel Avery ($200, Lismore Art & Framing): ‘Bath Time, Hastings Point’. An Eastern Osprey bathing in the creek after catching a large fish.
Youth Category:
1st Prize – Harry Gilbert ($250, Byron Photo Magic): ‘Glow Worms, Burringbar Tunnel’. A magical long-exposure image of glow worms illuminating the Burringbar Tunnel in blue light after dark.
2nd Prize – Xavier Allman ($150, Byron Photo Magic): ‘Defined by Water, North Wall Ballina’. A striking composition showing how water shapes the landscape along the Ballina breakwall.
3rd Prize – Reuven Taminiau ($100, Lismore Art & Framing): ‘Macadamia Sunset, Dunoon’. A wide-angle landscape capturing a vibrant sunset over rolling agricultural hills.
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