Din l-Art Helwa has announced the winners of the 2011 Photographic Competition for the Marine Environment awarding prizes for the two categories of photographic entries: ‘The Negative Effects of Human Activity on The Sea or The Coastline’ and ‘The Beauty and Unique Qualities of Underwater Life.’ Speaking on the occasion of the Notte Bianca, Ms. Simone Mizzi, Executive President of the organization stated that it had been difficult to choose amongst this year’s 23 entries as most photos displayed technical ability, originality and a kaleidoscope of colours.
By decision of a panel of experts, ‘Gun powder shells at 5m Depth at Reqqa Point’ by Sonia Silvio was awarded First prize in the Marine Pollution category, whilst the winner for the Beauty of Marine Life photo was Matthew Farrugia for his ‘Fan Worms on the Um El Faroud.’ Both winners received €250.00.’
This is the fifth consecutive year Din l-Art Helwa has organised a photographic competition for the marine environment in order to raise awareness about the importance and state of the coastline and surrounding waters of the Maltese islands. This initiative constitutes part of the Blue Campaign undertaken by the heritage and environmental organization and was open to all diving schools, clubs, students, lovers of the environment and the general public. The awards for this year’s event were made possible with the support of Avantech Ltd.
Photos – ‘Fan Worms on the Um El Faroud’ by Matthew Farrugia and below, Gun powder shells at 5m Depth at Reqqa Point’ by Sonia Silvio.