How many times can you say that you eye-balled a snake, witnessed some amazing aerial acrobatics, and shared a coffee with a toddler all in the space of a couple of minutes?

We'll that's just a mere snapshot of the experiences people who visited the Best Photo Competition page received in January.

As they say, however, there can only be one winner...or can there?

Top of the judges list in January came Darryl Kirk's beautiful shot of a brilliant blue Ulysses butterfly. The more you look at this shot the more detail can be discovered so well done to Darryl who has won a $100 voucher PLUS $50 in cash thanks to Garricks Camera House.

Just pipped for the top honour, but not without reward thanks to Image Bank Australia, is Joel Van Kalken who will have his stunning 'Warrmbu Creek' image immortalised on a stretched canvas valued at $75.

In third place, and being rewarded with a lovely bottle of wine, comes the inform Tod Parker for his 'Baby Clam.' The colours are mesmerising we're sure you'll agree.

300 votes were cast in the Most Popular Photo category and coming out on top with 99 was Richard Hopper with his 'Simply Pink.' Glenda Cornwill was moved to comment on this photo saying "Love Richard Hopper's "Simply Pink" as its colour is stunning and it really stands out."

We couldn't have put it better, Glenda. Richard has won himself a $50 voucher from our brand new Most Popular Photo sponsor, Coles Supermarket. Welcome aboard guys.

But in recognition of all our photographers who took the time to send in their favourite pics in January, we're giving everyone who entered a stylish MasterChef apron which can be collected at from our office in Owen Street (opposite the Post Office). Just look for our brand new bright red signage.

Again, thank you to Coles for providing these as prizes, and thank you to Garricks Camera House and Image Bank Australia for their ongoing support of the Best Photo Competition.

Major prize winners please contact Mathew at The Newsport on 4099 5122 to arrange collection.

Thank you also to our expert judges, Ali George from Catseye Productions and Perrin Clarke from Image Bank Australia.

Entries are flowing in fast for February (there's more F's in there than my report card) so don't miss out. Send your pics to editor@thenewsport.com.au.

Have you checked out the region's best photo competition?

Editor's Comments: It must be said that the photo that received many positive comments from within the office was Hayley Close's 'Kids view, Rex Smeal Park'. This is probably of little consequence to Hayley but well done for your creativeness.