[Rob_K]

Yes, I think I agree that ultimately it should be the photo, and the last thing I’d like to see is a ‘level playing field’ where through the creation of obscure categories my sad photos had as much chance of picking up an award or honourable mention as, say, Strongmanmike’s. A comp is a comp and the organisers set the rules. You enter or you don’t. The comp will live or die as Australia’s premier amateur astrophotography awards according to the strength of the entries, which is something the organisers do need to be aware of in setting the rules. But it seems to be doing pretty well at the moment, and time will tell as to its continued ranking.

I must say I was a bit surprised to learn that Dr Malin is the sole judge (for some reason I thought the awards were judged by a panel and named in honour of Dr Malin), but again, even if it is just ‘excellence’ seen through the eyes of one man, so be it.

Well done to all the winners & honourable mentions!

Cheers -