Shellharbour City Council is inviting the community to celebrate the trees that make our city cooler and greener, with the return of the popular Wild About Shellharbour Nature Photography competition for 2026.
Entries open today, Monday 23 March, for National Eucalypt Day and close on Monday 11 May at 11.59pm.
Caption: Wild About Shellharbour: Tree Tales competition. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
This year's theme 'Tree Tales' encourages residents to share the stories behind the trees they value most. From shady backyard favourites to towering eucalypts in local bushland, the theme highlights the important roles trees play in supporting our climate, wildlife and neighbourhoods.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said the competition was a creative way for the community to appreciate and reflect on the natural environment around them.
"Trees make our city healthier and more resilient. They cool our streets, support our wildlife and help create neighbourhoods that people are proud to live in," Mayor Homer said.
"Tree Tales is a great opportunity for our community to share the stories behind the trees that matter to them, whether it's a favourite gum on a local bushwalk or a shady spot in the backyard. I'm always proud to see how connected our residents are to the natural spaces around them and this competition celebrates that."
The competition is open to Shellharbour residents and includes two main age categories along with a People's Choice award. Prizes include Visa gift cards and vouchers for the Shellharbour City Council Nursery.
Prizes
Ages 18 and over
First prize receives a $200 Visa gift card and a $100 Shellharbour City Council Nursery voucher. Second prize receives a $100 Visa gift card and a $50 Nursery voucher.
Under 18s
First prize receives a $200 Visa gift card and a $100 Nursery voucher. Second prize receives a $100 Visa gift card and a $50 Nursery voucher.
People's Choice
A People's Choice winner will be awarded for each age category through an online public vote. Each winner receives a $50 nursery voucher. One randomly selected public voter for the People's Choice prize will also receive a $50 nursery voucher.
Winners will be announced on World Environment Day on Friday 5 June.
Participants are encouraged to capture a tree within the Shellharbour region and share what it means to them. Entries can be submitted through Council's website.
