The diversity, beauty and inspirational qualities of the Daintree will be showcased this Friday at the inaugural Destination Daintree Art Prize.

Organised by Douglas Arts Studio Gallery (known as DAB), the inaugural art competition has received overwhelming support from the Daintree community with more than 40 pieces to be displayed during the six-day exhibition.

Doug Ryan, executive officer of Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree said the art community had banded together to organise one of the largest exhibitions of its kind to be held in Port Douglas.

“We see it as a fantastic initiative to raise the profile of the Daintree and the art community of the region,” he said.

“This is first class work all done by extremely talented local artists, and it will be a real highlight for those coming along to the exhibition.”

Organisers are expecting strong attendance for the opening this Friday with Australian TV and film actor Aaron Fa’aoso officiating proceedings on the night, including the announcement of the winning entries with a prize pool of more than $5000.

DAB president Alison Gotts said the diversity of the work entered showcased the depth of talent in this region.

“We have water colours, prints, pen and ink, acrylics, there is a whole mix, it should be a great exhibit.”

Prizes will be awarded for best overall winner sponsored by Destination Daintree, best Daintree landscapes and seascapes sponsored by Cape Trib Camping, best Daintree flora sponsored by Cape Trib Exotic Fruit Farm, best Daintree wildlife sponsored by Exemplar Coaches and Limousines and best photography sponsored by Heritage Lodge & Spa.

Three special commendation awards valued at $250 will be awarded in photography, sponsored by Sunrise Cafe, Mossman, Bolt Burchill Tranter and Perrin Clarke Photography.

Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours is sponsoring the Steve Walsh Peoples’ Choice award in honour of the founder of Jungle Surfing, who died tragically in 2010. Voting is now open for this award but be quick as it closes today.