News
19 April, 2025
Regional talent on national stage
Toogoolawah artist Naomi McKenzie has been shortlisted for the 2025 Galah Regional Photography Prize, Australia’s richest photography competition for regional artists.
Selected from more than 1,100 entries across all corners of regional Australia, Ms McKenzie is among 37 contemporary photographers to be shortlisted for the competition that carries a total prize pool of $27,000.
Her work will be showcased alongside 42 standout images in a major exhibition at the New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) in Armidale, NSW, from April 11.
The winners will be revealed at a celebratory exhibition party at NERAM on Friday, May 2, 2025.
Ms McKenzie said she was “absolutely thrilled” to find out she was a finalist and have her work recognised amongst “the calibre of artists”, calling it “such a privilege”.
“My image ‘Audio Eyes’ was shot on medium format film and is a reminder of the wonderful diversities in regional communities,” she said.
“I can’t overstate the importance of these kinds of prizes for regional artists. The region’s are brimming with creativity and it’s this kind of support from organisations like Galah and regional councils that future proof arts in regional Australia.
“I am personally thankful also to Somerset Council and The Condensery for supporting local artists to thrive on a national stage.”
Galah founder Annabelle Hickson said the prize was created to celebrate the incredible talent thriving beyond metropolitan art hubs, showcasing the diversity, complexity, and beauty of regional Australia.
“The quality of work submitted this year is remarkable, and it’s a privilege to provide a platform where regional photographers can share their stories, perspectives, and technical brilliance with a wider audience,” she said.
All finalist works will be available for sale during the exhibition, with the option for photographers to offer limited edition print runs.
Recognising that the costs of printing, framing, and freight can often prevent regional artists from showcasing their work, Galah has launched an Artist Subsidy Fund.
This fund will be divided equally among the 40 finalists to help offset exhibition expenses.
