28th August 2008
Some of Wyndham’s brightest visual and performing arts stars have been recognised with the 3AW 693 Cultural Encouragement Awards winners announced last week.
More than 200 young Wyndham residents showcased their artistic talents during the Awards, which were sponsored by 3AW 693, the Sanctuary Lakes Foundation and the Combined Werribee Chapters of Beta Sigma Phi.
From August 18-24 a visual arts exhibition was held in the Upper Gallery of the Wyndham Cultural Centre, with an awards presentation night held on Thursday 21 August where the winners were announced. Prizes and trophies were awarded for entrants in the 5 – 12 age group and the 13 – 18 age group. The awards this year were judged by local Wyndham artist, Monika Schott.
On Saturday 23 August 2008, more than 170 entrants participated in a showcase event at the Wyndham Cultural Centre’s Tattersall’s Theatre. With over four hours of talent on display, the showcase saw entrants compete in vocal, dance and musical instrument categories and were judged by Mayor Councillor Kim McAliney and Wolf Heidecker, Wyndham Community Arts Alliance.
Five groups performed in the Community Group category which was sponsored by the Combined Werribee Chapters of Beta Sigma Phi.
Iramoo Ward Councillor Peter Ross said entries for the Cultural Encouragement Awards increased dramatically this year proving the ongoing popularity of the Awards which are now in their 18th year.
“Over 200 residents participating in this event is testament to the fact that Wyndham is home to a vibrant arts community,” Cr Ross said.
“The Awards attract a diverse array of entries including artists using photography and sculpture to singers and dancers. The Awards give entrants the opportunity to showcase their talents and encourage young artists to further develop their skills.”
“The Cultural Encouragement Awards are a great way to recognise the work of Wyndham’s young artists and are a highlight of August Arts.”
The prize winners are:
VISUAL ARTS
5 - 12 years (sponsored by the Sanctuary Lakes Foundation)
Highly Commended (Collection of artworks) - Madison Spiteri
Highly Commended (Single artwork) - Dylan Momirovski
Encouragement Award - Georgia Stafford
13 - 18 years (sponsored by 3AW 693)
Highly Commended (Collection of artworks) - Melanie Deroon
Highly Commended (Single artwork) - Emmaline Terry
Encouragement Award - Tess Haveaux
PERFORMING ARTS
5 - 12 years (sponsored by the Sanctuary Lakes Foundation)
Vocal - Brigitte Yoseski
Musical Instrument - Alexander Gilham
Dance - Ashlea Ephraums
13 - 18 years (sponsored by 3AW 693)
Vocal - Emylee Ephraums
Musical Instrument - Sameer Sharma
Dance - Cassandra Dosen
BETA SIGMA PHI COMMUNITY GROUP AWARDS (Sponsored By Beta Sigma Phi)
Winner - City West Taekwondo Demonstration Team
Runner - up - Dance 4 All
Encouragement - Good News Lutheran School Choir