Warrnambool and District Artists' Society's Annual Awards held at Merri View Gallery on June 24

Jenny Vick won the inaugural Judith Watson Trophy (best overall).

Titled Down Blackwood Road, judge Brett Jarrett said he "loved the textures, colour and tone of this single red gum, being mostly in shadow".

"It contrasts strongly with the warm background making the subject pop from the canvas," he said.

A new award was the Stephen Benham Memorial Award for best animal and bird art.

Robyn Ireland won with her piece Military Macaw.

Jarrett said Ireland put considerable effort into giving the bird's feathers a life-like effect.

Another new award was the Water East Timor Award for best scene with water, which went to Judy Rauert for her piece inspired by the Grampians.

The Maureen Healy Memorial Award for best flora painting went to Gwyn Taylor for her piece Bottlebrush.

The winners in the remaining categories in first, second and third place were: Acrylic: Bobbie Cox, Judy Rauert and Sharon Cox. Oil: Neil Griffin, Dianne Bowles and Murray Jennings. Watercolour: Lorraine Deppeler, Shirley Lindsay and Nola Golding. Pastel: Wilma Williams, Ricky Schembri and Michelle Morgan and Other: Susan Sambell, Robyn Lake and Val Ryan.

The works remain on display until July 10.

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