Diversity in focus

Cranbourne Chamber of Commerce president Mark Carusi congratulates the Best in Show winner Rhonda Dumicich. Pictures: DONNA OATES

By BRIDGET COOK

THE winning photos and entries of the Balla Balla Community Centre’s photography competition are now on display, giving snapshot of Casey’s diversity.
The centre ran a photography competition that called on the community to submit entries on the theme of Celebrating Diversity and Culture in Casey.
The winning photos, in four categories, were announced at the Passport to Casey’s Cultural Heritage Showcase Australia Day event in Cranbourne on Sunday.
The Best in Show was awarded to Rhonda Dumicich, who also won the open section, for her photo ‘Reflections on Water and Life’, which was taken at the Yun Yang Temple Grounds in Narre Warren North.
Competition organiser Vanessa Santvoort said Ms Dumicich was a worthy winner and her photo captured a peaceful scene of water and reflection.
Rajeswary Marathan was second in the open section and Ewan Arnolda, third.
The junior section was won by Samudra Pathmasiri and Kaaviyan Pathmasiri was named second.
Nithiya Pathmasiri took out the intermediate category, while Caitlin Van Uyen was runner-up.
The winner of the senior section was Meg Hamilton, Lynn Brayshaw was second and Judy Stephenson, third.
Ms Santvoort said the calibre of entries in this year’s competition was very high.
“I was very pleased with the entries received,” she said.
“It reflected how people in Casey see the diversity and culture all around them.
“I am looking forward to the next competition.”
All entries are now on display in an exhibition at the Balla Balla Community Centre until 28 March.