Mount Alexander Photographic Society (formerly the Castlemaine Camera Club) is thrilled to be hosting the Victorian Association of Photographic Societies convention in Castlemaine this weekend, June 13-15.
This year marks the 71st year of the convention, which attracts photographers and visitors statewide.
At the convention there will be presentations by guest speakers, workshops, and photographic excursions. It is a great forum for exchanging ideas about the activities of other clubs.
The convention will also feature a free public exhibition at the Castlemaine Town Hall showcasing 614 prints from 43 different Victorian camera clubs.
MAPS president Harley Parker said the Castlemaine club hosted its first VAPS conference 60 years ago.
“Our last time hosting was back in 1986 so it is wonderful to be able to welcome members back for this weekend’s event,” he said.
On the Saturday afternoon the local camera club will conducting a guided history walk ‘A stroll through Castlemaine’s 19th Century Photographic Heritage’ based on photographers working in Castlemaine from 1855 to 1920.
The hour long walk will feature photographers such as Henry Glenny, Joesph Wheeler, George Rose, W. G. Cearns and Charles Wherrett, Frederick Henry Coldrey, Adolphus Verey and Max Pincus. It will also touch on the 123-year history of our own local camera club, and stop over at the locations of some of these photographers’ studios and/or sites of significance these many professional and amateur photographers captured.
“With visiting photographers attending, alongside local and regional visitors, this event offers a unique opportunity for photographers to gain visibility among a engaged, creative audience,” Harley said.
The free public exhibition will open this Friday June 13 from 3.30pm-5pm, Saturday June 14 from 9am-5pm, and Sunday June 15 from 9am-2pm.
The event is proudly supported by Australian Photography and Shedshaker Brewing at The Mill Castlemaine.
This incredible image by MAPS member Patrick Kavanagh will be among the works to feature in the exhibition. 
This stunning black and white image by MAPS president Harley Parker will be among the works to feature in the VAPS exhibition at Castlemaine Town Hall.
