We envisaged it as being a fantastic opportunity for students to practice and showcase their art skills whilst also giving them the opportunity to see the purpose of art within the business community.

Teachers were encouraged to incorporate the Tall Poppy competition into their art, photography and computing classes and to submit six of their most eye catching designs for judging. It was suggested that students try to convey visually Tall Poppy Art Framers and Gallery's business ethos and philosophy of "aiming to excel beyond common expectations and to stand high above the competition"

The former Minister for Education, Mr. Mark McGowan, a dedicated supporter of his local community, was on hand during the award ceremony night to present the winners with their prizes. Mr. McGowan said " the quality of the work on display is exemplary and the ideas presented are fresh, original and innovative. It was also a boost for students confidences to have their work on display in a proper art gallery for the public to view."

The overall winner was Gemma Milne from Safety Bay High School who was one of twenty five local Rockingham High School students to have their work chosen for the final judging. Gemma (15) said she has drawn since early childhood and loved to create anime and other Japanese inspired contemporary drawings. She cited her stepfather and Grandfather as inspirations and for encouraging her passion.

Maranatha Christian College student Linley Capps won second prize followed by joint 3rd place winners of Carley Rooney from Rockingham Senior High and Jake Ward of Warnbro Community High. A special Certificate of Merit was presented to Latasha Crosbie of Marantha Christian College.

The event was a huge success. Gemma Milne's design has gone on to be "fine-tuned" by a commercial designer and to be used as Tall Poppy Art Framers and Gallery's new logo. The image is now incorporated onto business cards, letterheads and invoices.