There’s an intriguing contrast in announcing that a stunning slug has won the 2024 Underwater Photo Competition as many wouldn’t typically associate beauty with slugs; however, the verdict is in: underwater photographer Peter McGee has claimed the top prize with his captivating shot, Clown Doris Nudibranch and Ascidian.

As part of the Northern Beaches Council's 31st Ocean Festival, the competition showcased stunning underwater photography captured at the five Aquatic Reserves on the Northern Beaches. with a $4000 prize pool up for grabs. 

The competition highlights the talents of amateur and professional photographers, celebrating the vibrant life and ecosystems beneath the water. 

This year there was 8 competition categories, and a major prize, ‘The Valerie Taylor Underwater Photography Award for Excellence’ recognising a long-time Manly resident who has a lifelong passion for the ocean, ocean conservation and a love of underwater photography.  

Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said the exhibition is aimed to honour and promote awareness of the diverse flora and fauna found within the Aquatic Reserves. 

“Every year I am impressed by the unexpected elegance of the underwater that is captured by our community.” Mayor Heins said. 
“This competition showcases the incredible local talent in capturing the beauty and importance of marine life in our Aquatic Reserves. 

“Congratulations to all the winners for their outstanding contributions to this celebration of our ocean’s wonders.”

The competition's People's Choice award was won by Xina Hudson for her image, PJ Yin and Yang. Over a 1000 people voted online in this category.

This year over 250 images and 28 reels were submitted with the judges having their work cut out for them. 

The judges included Katherine Roberts - Senior Curator of the Manly Art Gallery & Museum, Nicolas Remy - a freelance underwater photographer and founder of The Underwater Club, an online photography school, and highly regarded photographer Scott McGale who owns photography school, the Photo Workshop Australia.

To view all the winners visit our website or visit the Manly Library from Monday 2 December – Sunday 8 December, 2024.

This year’s awards ceremony was held at Manly Art Gallery & Museum. The theme of Underwater Photography Competition ‘Life Below Water’ aligns this competition to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG 14.