Calling all photographers, swimmers, snorkellers and divers to get creative by entering this year’s Underwater Photography Competition as part of our Ocean Festival.

With a prize pool of $4,000, participants are invited to submit their underwater images from one of our 5 aquatic reserves on the Northern Beaches. The competition celebrates all skill levels and is open to amateur, professional and young photographers.

This year we are delighted to announce we have a new major award and trophy ‘The Valerie Taylor Underwater Photography Award for Excellence’ 2024.

This award honours Valerie Taylor, a long-time Manly resident with a lifelong passion for the ocean, decades-long commitment to ocean conservation and a love of underwater photography. This award recognizes Valerie and her enduring record of advocacy for the conservation of our oceans and their marine life. The award is dedicated in perpetuity.

Please note: The 'Valerie Taylor Underwater Photography for Excellence' will be judged from the category runners up and winners with the exception of the youth category.

How to enter

Step 1:  

Make sure you have read the Terms and Conditions of Entry and familiarise yourself with the requirements, including for each category.

Submissions close Sunday 15 September, midnight.

Step 2:

Take your winning photo or video reel.

Step 3:

Complete the entry form below.

You will receive a confirmation email on receipt of your submission.

If you need technical assistance to complete the form, please email website@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au

For any specific queries, please email robynne.millward@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au