2023 MAITLAND PORTRAIT PRIZE ORGANISED BY THE MAITLAND REGION SOCIETY OF ARTISTS INC.

Ms JENNY AITCHISON (Maitland—Minister for Regional Transport and Roads)—For the past six years the Maitland Region Society of Artists have awarded an annual Maitland Portrait Prize. The prize sees entrants paint a prominent local Maitland individual and this year the subject of the entries was former Tocal College Principal Dr Cameron Archer AM. Judged by Newcastle artist Pablo Tapia and exhibited at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery the works celebrate Cameron and his contribution to the local community and Tocal College. Congratulations to Josiecar Guterres, of Gillieston Heights who was announced as the winner for her work 'Wonder'. Second Prize was awarded to Rene Brager, for 'Cameron Archer: Looking Forward, Looking Back', and highly commended was awarded to Priya Joy. This year's prize also introduced a student's section which showcases exceptional youth artistic talent, the artistic future of Maitland is in good hands. Eadan Cook take out first prize, Jocelyn Mainey second and a high commendation for Carl Doroja. Congratulations to the Maitland Region Society of Artists and all the entrants.