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Members of the public interested in joining the "2010 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Chinese white dolphin drawing competition" are welcome to submit entries from today (September 1) to November 1.
Jointly organised by the Oceanic and Fisheries Administration of Guangdong Province, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Civic and Municipal Affairs Bureau of the Macao Special Administrative Region and the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong, the competition encourages students and the public to portray the unique features and postures of Chinese white dolphins using their artistic and creative talent. The aim is to promote the message of conservation of dolphins and the marine environment.
Chinese white dolphins (Sousa chinensis) were first recorded in local waters as long ago as the 1600s, making them one of the true indigenous residents of Hong Kong. It is estimated that there are about 2,500 Chinese white dolphins living in the Pearl River Estuary. They are experiencing challenges in their living environment as a result of urbanisation and coastal development. To ensure that these spectacular dolphins coexist with us in harmony, cherishing our marine resources and protecting marine creatures are particularly important.
The competition is divided into three categories - primary, secondary and open. Entries must be two-dimensional and may be drawn with any materials. Computer-generated drawings will not be accepted. In addition to the champion, first runner-up and second runner-up, five entrants will be highly commended in each category. The champions of each group will compete with their counterparts from Guangdong and Macao for the overall championship.
The AFCD will organise three public seminars this month to give participants a better understanding of the Chinese white dolphin. Entry forms and details of the competition and seminars are available on the AFCD's website, www.afcd.gov.hk. For enquiries, please call 1823.
Entries with the completed forms should be submitted before November 1 by post or by delivery to the Marine Conservation Division (West), AFCD, 7/F, Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, 303 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon.
Winners will be invited to attend a prize presentation ceremony held on January 8, 2011, at Ocean Park, Hong Kong. Prizes include trophies, book coupons and other souvenirs.
Ends/Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Issued at HKT 11:36
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