To raise public awareness and promote concern about the need to protect Victoria Harbour, the Society for the Protection of the Harbour (SPH) has promoted the idea of setting aside a day in the year for Hong Kong people to enjoy the Harbour. The date for 2005 will be on 13 November. SPH believes other organizations will also be willing to organize their own events to celebrate Habour Day.
As Harbour Day approaches, a number of events will be launched. These include the Victoria Harbour and I Photo Competition and Exhibition. The title, “Victoria Harbour and I”, reflects the organiser’s desire for Hong Kong photographers to adopt a personal view of the Harbour. By exhibiting harbour view photos SPH hopes to deliver a strong message that Hong Kong people are ultimately responsible for protecting this unique natural asset so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.
Christine Loh, the Chairperson of SPH said, “There are special days set aside each year to remind us of important things. The Harbour is our most beautiful natural asset and we should cherish it. SPH hopes Hong Kong citizens will turn out on the day to celebrate Hong Kong’s good fortune to have one of the most beautiful harbours in the world”.
The photo competition is scheduled to run from 10 September to 12 October 2005. Prizes will be presented to award winning photos on 6 November, and a special exhibition of the best and most interesting photos will be on display from 6 November to 13 November 2005.
The Photo Competition will comprise of an open section and for full-time students. In addition to the above, SPH is arranging a section featuring photos taken by professional photographers (by invitation only) so that the exhibition will have rich variety of perspectives.
SPH has the support of several prominent professional photographic associations to serve on the Panel of Judges and advisers. These include the Hong Kong Press Photographers Association (HKPPA); Hkphotographers.com (HKPHK); Hong Kong Institute of Professional Photographers (HKIPP); and the EyePress, a photography agency based in Hong Kong. The famous photographer, Mr. Water Poon, has also agreed to serve on the panel.
Besides, with support from various sponsors, we are proud to give out attractive prizes for all prize winners. These include Nikon D70s or D50 camera with lens and other digital cameras. Winners from Student Section can also enjoy a free helicopter ride over Victoria Harbour sponsored by Heliservices.
A good photo tells a story. A photo is a witness to time and change. SPH wants to deliver a strong visual message by documenting the existing harbour view through this photographic competition and exhibition. Recently taken photos, as well as historical photos to be shown at the exhibition, will present a valuable witness to change.
For the brief, guidelines and application form of "Victoria Harbour and I - Photo Competition", please go to SPH's website www.harbourprotection.org/html/all_page_b_eng.htm |