£2,000 and Two Brand New Cameras Awarded in Annual Marine Environmental Journal Competition
Stunning images and compelling storytelling about sailors’ adventures and their unique views of the marine environment took center stage this year in the Brian Black Memorial Award. Celebrated for its fifth edition, the contest once again partnered with antifouling specialist Coppercoat to honor journalism that illuminates critical stories of our oceans.
Celebrating ‘Our Changing Seas’
The theme for this year’s competition was ‘Our Changing Seas,’ reflecting the pressing issues facing marine ecosystems. This year marked a significant evolution for the award, as it introduced two photography competitions for both adults and juniors, with the latter coordinated alongside The Week Junior magazine.
Winners and Prizes
The main article competition boasted a £2,000 cash prize, publication in Yachting Monthly, and a beautifully crafted brass and wood engraved compass. Katherine Knight emerged victoriously with her heartfelt piece detailing her experience in Dunvullaig Bay, Scotland, during the Covid pandemic. While many were confined indoors, Katherine found inspiration in the natural world surrounding her.
Advocating for Seagrass Conservation
Katherine’s passion for the environment shone through her narrative. Initially concerned about the deteriorating condition of local seagrass, she decided to take action. Engaging in surveying, fundraising, and planting new seagrass meadows, she actively contributed to restoring the ecosystem. This initiative not only supports diverse marine life but also aids in carbon sequestration, emphasizing the vital role of healthy seas.
Katherine expressed her gratitude, stating, “I hope that this inspires people to get out, have adventures on their sailing boat, and also think about how they can bring positive action for conservation into what they’re doing.”
Photography Competition Winners
In the adult photography segment, Kirstin Jones captured a striking image of her boat entangled in discarded fishing gear while sailing in Barbuda, Caribbean. Despite the challenging circumstances of being caught in nets during tumultuous weather, she persevered and safely anchored her vessel. This stunning photograph, which elegantly depicts the dangers of ‘ghost gear,’ earned Kirstin a Canon R50 mirrorless camera kit.
Kirstin remarked, “It is a privilege to be offered such a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness of a very real threat to our oceans.” Her compelling visuals serve as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by marine life due to human activity.
The junior photography competition also made waves with 10-year-old Arabella Alexander winning with her beautifully composed shot of a driftwood log eroding on Charmouth beach. Commenting on her win, Arabella expressed disbelief and excitement at the chance to showcase the natural world through her new camera.
The Judges
A panel of judges, including Sarah Brown (daughter of Brian Black), his granddaughter Penny Black, conservation expert Dr. Bob Brown, and offshore racing sailor Mike Golding OBE, evaluated the entries. They praised Kirstin’s photograph for its rarity and composition, emphasizing its ability to convey a complex narrative quickly and effectively.
Honoring Legacy and Advocacy
The Brian Black Memorial Award, established in 2020, honors the legacy of Brian and Lesley Black. Brian was a dedicated journalist and filmmaker, well-known for his passion for naturalism and sailing. Lesley was a trailblazer in her own right, being the first female commodore of a Northern Irish yacht club. Their shared commitment to highlighting vital environmental issues continues to inspire new generations.
About Coppercoat
The successful execution of the award is made possible by the generous support of Coppercoat, an industry leader in antifouling solutions. For over three decades, Coppercoat has been offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional antifouling paints, which often release toxic substances into marine ecosystems. Their commitment to sustainability aligns perfectly with the values of the contest, reinforcing the importance of preserving our oceans.
The Role of Sea-Changers
Additionally, the ceremony included a contribution to charity, with £1,000 donated to Sea-Changers, a UK marine conservation charity dedicated to supporting marine projects. Through its efforts, Sea-Changers empowers individuals and organizations to engage in meaningful conservation initiatives, raising awareness and funding for marine research and protection.
The Importance of Storytelling
During the award presentation, Mike Golding emphasized the significance of education and storytelling in marine conservation. He stated, “The world’s oceans are all connected; the way we treat them has a global impact.” By sharing personal narratives and striking visuals, journalists and photographers play a crucial role in driving awareness and advocating for positive change.
The Brian Black Memorial Award continues to shine a spotlight on the urgent need for environmental conservation while celebrating creativity and passion in storytelling. Through this competition, the tradition of advocating for a healthier marine environment thrives, inspiring individuals to act and engage with the beauty of our oceans.