May 15, 2008: An art project using disposable cameras to record Youth Week across the Bega Valley Shire has resulted in an exhibition of more than 500 photographs.

The Disposable Art Project was designed to give young people in the area the opportunity to represent Youth Week visually without having to be an artist.

During Youth Week in April, 100 disposable cameras were distributed across the shire from Bermagui to Eden for young people to document their activities.

"Young people really got behind the project during Youth Week, enjoying the opportunity to take some candid snaps of what they were doing during youth week," Council’s community development officer, Emma Benton, said.

"Everyone is welcome to come along to check out the images that were captured by the young photographers.

"We would like the community to come along and support this valuable youth initiative.

"The Disposable Art Project has been a great way of celebrating being a young person in the Bega Valley Shire.

"The project may have unearthed the odd talented photographers and with more than 500 photos on display the exhibition definitely will be worth checking out," Ms Benton said.

The Disposable Art exhibition opening will be held Friday, May 23, from 5pm to 7pm in the annexe room under the Bega Bowling Club in Gipps Street.

Local musician Kim Churchill will provide entertainment throughout the evening and the bowling club will cater for the event.

The exhibition will continue until May 27 from 11am to 2pm each day.

Prizes for best overall photo and the Bega Valley Shire Youth Council prize will be presented at the opening. There will also be a people’s choice award.

Everyone who took part in the Disposable Art Project will receive a certificate of recognition for their involvement.

The Disposable Art Project was made possible by the support of Fletchers Fotographics and Bega Valley Shire Council.

For more information phone Emma Benton at Bega Valley Shire Council on 6499 2317.