mEYE World 2013 Launched
Macular Disease Foundation Australia CEO Julie Heraghty, ODMA Chairman Richard Grills and guest speaker Monica Trapaga at the launch of the third annual mEYE World Photographic Competition.
Iconic Australian entertainer Monica Trapaga launched the third annual mEYE World Photographic Competition at ODMA|2013 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre on 5 July.
An initiative of the Macular Disease Foundation Australia, the mEYE World Photographic Competition, sponsored by ODMA, is now in its third year and encourages Australians to harness their creativity and submit a photograph, along with 30-60 supporting words, showing their appreciation of the gift of vision.
It provides an opportunity for enthusiasts and budding photographers to showcase their talent, whilst raising awareness of macular degeneration, a disease that affects 1 million people or one in seven Australians over the age of 50.
Famous musician and entertainer Monica Trapaga officially launched the competition and spoke of her passion for eye health and the importance of having your eyes tested. Monica spoke of the significance of visual arts in her life especially in her work as an author, illustrator and media personality.
“Visuals have always been an integral part of my life in the creative arts – from the days of Play School to TV presenting and my career as an actor, entertainer, author and illustrator. I’m very excited to be a part of the mEYE World Photographic Competition launch. It encourages creativity, calling for Australians to find unique ways to celebrate the world through their eyes and capture that spirit in their photo,” said Trapaga.
Macular Disease Foundation Australia Chief Executive Officer, Julie Heraghty, welcomed guests to the launch and spoke on the importance of the mEYE World Photographic Competition in raising awareness of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia.
“This is an exciting project for the Foundation as our focus is your vision. We want Australians to use photography, a powerful and popular medium, to illustrate their appreciation of the gift of sight and at the same time spread the word to have your eyes tested and practise good preventative eye health. This is a fun and exciting way to help ensure we can all see a future,” said Ms Heraghty.
Ms Heraghty encourages all Australians to get involved in the competition. “I look forward to seeing the inspiring and creative photos submitted this year,” said Ms Heraghty.
Famous faces who will be judging this year’s entries include Australian of The Year 2013 and Patron of the Macular Disease Foundation Australia, Ita Buttrose. Ita will be joined by Ken Duncan, one of Australia’s most acclaimed landscape photographers.
Entries close 2 October 2013
To enter the competition visit www.meyephotocomp.com.au
8 July 2013