More than 180 entries have been received for the show which boasts increased prizemoney, new mediums and the inclusion of a landmark award.

Artists from across the state are hopeful of taking out the top prize at the club’s 36^th annual event, with $500 prizemoney up for grabs for best in show. 

The artist who wins best local landmark will win $300, and the work which is voted most popular will receive $200. 

Organising committee member Chris Thompson said he was pleased with the number of entries. 

“It’s certainly up on last year,” Mr Thompson said.

“The numbers are up there around where we have had them in the past which is good to see.

“Last year there was a bit of a dip and we were a bit worried but it’s good that they’re back up there where they normally are.”

Local artist and long-time show supporter Susan Sambell will judge the two prizes with entries received from the south-west, Ballarat, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. 

Mr Thompson said a significant number of artists had entered the new landmark section. “We said it can be any landmark as long as it’s in south-west Victoria,” he said. 

“If the artists wanted to nominate a painting, they ticked a box on their entry form if they want to go in for that prize.” 

Committee member Blake Allan said that as well as paint, pastels and lino prints, patrons could expect to see pottery, sculptures and photographs this year.

“It’s always been for paintings but what we’ve decided to do is to open the art show up a bit more to newer things like photographs and promote more modern artwork,” Mr Allan said. 

“We had sculptures about 10 years ago and stopped it about five years ago, which I thought was a bit of a shame, so we’ve brought it back.

“It opens it up to more of what people might like. 

“Not everyone is a fan of paintings, some people would prefer a sculpture, some people do love photographs, especially when we’re in a very photogenic region.

“There’s some great options there for different mediums and new enjoyment.”

Artist Trevor Holder has entered two pieces featuring local landmarks in the new section including the Warrnambool Breakwater and historic Port Fairy homestead Woodbine.

He has nominated for both works to be included in the new landscape section.

He said the show attracted recognised local artists including Susan Sambell, Judy Rauert and Wilma Williams. “It’s an honour if you win it and it builds your profile,” he said.  

Mr Holder encouraged the public to attend the show and said it was a great chance to purchase unique works of south-west scenes at an affordable price. 

It also raises money for the Lions club. “The entry fee’s really a donation. If people are doing nothing on the long weekend it’s a great thing to go to because the money goes back into the community. 

“You can have a great morning tea, put on by the CWA, and have a walk around and see about 200 paintings. It’s a great place for people to go and spend a few hours.” 

Money raised will go into local projects, schools and organisations that the Koroit Lions Club supports including national and international Lions programs.  

The art show is on at the Koroit Theatre, Commercial Road, Koroit on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm and on Monday from 10am to 3pm. Entry is $5 for adults.