The organizers of the Underwater Awards Australasia 2026—DPG, Underwater Australasia, and UW Images—are proud to announce the winners of the 3rd edition of the underwater imaging competition focused on Australasia. The competition called for passionate underwater shooters from around the world to submit their most captivating and compelling images and videos from the Australasian region. Shooters were invited to immerse themselves in the challenge of capturing the essence of this extraordinary realm, where every frame tells a story of the delicate balance and breathtaking beauty that characterises our oceans.
Entrants competed in nine categories for prizes worth almost A$70,000 in total, including dive trips with the world’s top resorts and liveaboards, and the latest underwater imaging equipment and dive gear. The prestigious judging panel comprised Tobias Friedrich, Matty Smith, Scott Portelli, Jayne Jenkins, and Ross Long. The special category judge was Ray Collins.
The overall winner of the competition—the “Best of Show”—is Kat dos Remedios, whose amazing short film Dragon takes the top spot in the Reels Showcase category. The other category winners are Annika Dahlberg (Conservation), Talia Greis (Sydney), Jake Wilton (Australian), Simone Caprodossi (International Waters), Giacomo Marchione (Portfolio), Enrico Somogyi (Smartphone/Action Cam), Qian Kun (Tough TG), and Tom Healy (Only Water).
The winning entries were revealed on September 5th, 2026, during an awards ceremony at Go Diving Show ANZ in Sydney, Australia. The show featured an exhibition of high-quality metal prints of the finalist entries in the photo categories. Made by the competition’s Printing Partner PhotoMart, the one-off prints were available for purchase at the show, with the generous permission of the photographers. Half of the proceeds will be donated to the contest’s Environmental Partners Australian Marine Conservation Society and Take 3 for the Sea. Winners will be published in the 2028 Australian Marine Conservation Society calendar, with proceeds from sales going to marine conservation. All entry fees from the Conservation category will be donated to the competition’s Environmental Partners.
The organizers would like to extend their congratulations to all the winners, runners-up and honorable mentions, as well as their thanks to everyone that entered the competition. The organizers would also like to express their immense gratitude to the contest’s esteemed judges and generous sponsors, without whom the competition would not have been possible.
The winners will be published by supporting media partners worldwide. You can enjoy the winning images and videos below. (For detailed location information, equipment and settings, and stories behind the entries, please view the announcement on DPG.)
Important note: Entries to the competition must have been shot in the Australasian region, with the exception of the categories “Sydney,” “Australian,” and “International Waters.” For the definition of “Australasia” for the purposes of the competition, please read the Rules & Guidelines.
PHOTO
Sydney
Any image captured in the waters of Metropolitan Sydney. This area is capped by Hornsby Shire and the Northern Beaches Council in the north and the Sutherland Shire in the south. It does not include areas in Greater Sydney like the Central Coast or Shellharbour. Both underwater and split images are permitted.
Conservation
Any image with a focus on marine or freshwater environment and conservation. The subject matter must address a marine or freshwater-related environmental issue, whether it be considered positive or negative. The goal of images in this category is to convey a real-world message.
Australian
Any image showcasing the beauty of Australian waters. Entries are allowed from all Australian states and internal territories. Submissions are not accepted from external territories such as Christmas Island, the Coral Sea Islands and the part of Antarctica claimed by Australia. Both underwater and split images are permitted.
International Waters
Any image shot anywhere around the world. Macro or wide angle, warm or cold water—all images captured by any camera are accepted. Both underwater and split images are permitted. Only exceptional, original images will stand a chance in this highly competitive category.
Tough TG
Any image captured with an OM System or Olympus Tough compact camera. All TG models (TG-1 through TG-7) can be used. Both underwater and split shots are permitted.
Portfolio
Any portfolio comprising six images. The portfolio may be made up of any six images (no more, no fewer), but entrants are encouraged to choose images either following a particular theme (e.g., species, location, color) or demonstrating a range of skills or interests (e.g., behaviors, environments, techniques). Both underwater and split images are permitted. For detailed instructions on submitting a portfolio entry, please see the competition Rules & Guidelines.
Smartphone/Action Cam
Any image captured with a smartphone or action camera. Both underwater and split shots are permitted, as is the use of dome ports and attachments such as wet lenses, and artificial lighting.
Only Water
Any abstract ocean image, without the presence of humans or wildlife, capturing the natural beauty of the interaction between water and light and the ever-changing moods of the sea. Images must be shot from within the water using a water/underwater housing. Images can be shot above or below the water’s surface. The essence of the subject is the ocean in any shape, size, form or conditions.
VIDEO
Reels Showcase
Any Instagram Reel of 90 seconds or less. At least 50% of the Instagram Reel must consist of underwater video clips. Be as creative as possible and use text, filters and audio to create a fun and entertaining multi-clip video. Note: Submission requires you to first create your Instagram Reel and share it with us, and then finish the submissions process by paying for your entry. For detailed instructions, please see the competition Rules and Guidelines.
Judges
Jayne Jenkins
Jayne Jenkins was born and raised in Wales, and learned to dive in the chilly waters along the rugged Welsh coastline before moving to Australia in 1973. She has been actively involved in many facets of the diving industry for over four decades. Jayne is a regular editorial contributor to Scuba Diver Australia and New Zealand, and her underwater images have won her many awards. A proud Fellow International of the Explorers Club, Jayne is one of only three Australians to be inducted into the Women Divers Hall of Fame. Jayne has been a judge for numerous photo competitions, including the Photo Competition for World Oceans Day organised by the United Nations.
Matty Smith
Matty Smith is based in Newcastle, Australia, having emigrated from the UK in 2007. He has over 25 years of photography experience, with 17 of those underwater. He is a speaker and writer on various photographic techniques, but his biggest passion is teaching photography workshops in person to emerging students. He has been published by the likes of the BBC’s Blue Planet II documentary, National Geographic, BBC Wildlife magazine, Ocean Geographic, and many others. Matty has over 30 international awards to his name. An ambassador for Nikon Australia, he is sponsored by Aquatica Digital and is an Ocean Geographic Master Photographer.
Ray Collins
Ray Collins is an ocean photographer based in Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia. After a mining injury in 2007 led him to photography as therapy, Ray quickly found his eye for the ocean, landing international magazine covers within months of picking up a camera. He is best known for his moody, atmospheric seascapes—intimate studies of waves, water, and light that have earned him a global following and cemented his reputation as one of the world’s foremost ocean image-makers. Ray has partnered with major brands across automotive, technology, aviation, and fashion, while simultaneously working alongside NGOs, scientists, and environmental organisations to champion ocean conservation. His work has been exhibited internationally, and his images serve as both art and advocacy—a reminder of the ocean’s power, beauty, and fragility.
Ross Long
Ross Long is a multi-award-winning ocean, travel and lifestyle photographer and writer based in Byron Bay, Australia. Ross is a tenacious visionary with big ideas and a passionate artist and conservationist who truly loves his work. He is always creating, forever a student, and brimming with wanderlust. His purpose is to evoke emotion and inspire people to set out on their own adventures. He has worked with various tourist boards and high-profile brands, including Tourism Australia and GoPro.
Scott Portelli
Scott Portelli is a multi-award-winning wildlife, nature, aerial and underwater photographer. Scott has spent thousands of hours in remote locations across the globe filming and photographing nature, wildlife, and the underwater environment. Among his many accolades, he has received multiple awards at the Wildlife Photographer of the Year (2016, 2022) and has twice been crowned overall winner of the Australian Geographic Nature Photographer of the Year (2021, 2024). His conservation and nature documentaries have been honored at various film awards and festivals, including Nature’s Best Photography: Windland Smith Rice International Awards (2018) and the Sienna International Photography Awards (2021). Scott is known for his wildlife and photography workshops, tours and lectures, showing enthusiasts and experts alike the best way to get the most out of their photography, especially in challenging locations.
Tobias Friedrich
Tobias Friedrich first started taking pictures underwater with a DSLR in 2007. He is based in Wiesbaden, Germany, conveniently close to Frankfurt Airport, a major hub that facilitates his international travels for assignments around the globe. His images have been published in prestigious magazines and newspapers around the world, and numerous underwater photography competitions have honored his work, resulting in over 50 accolades, including 30 first-place awards. Notably, he was crowned “Underwater Photographer of the Year” in the prestigious UPY competition in 2018 and named “German Photographer of the Year” in the World Shootout contest in 2019.
Prizes
SPONSOR
7-night liveaboard trip with Dive Damai
Dive Damai has the most varied travel itineraries in the diving industry in the world’s best diving locations. The Dive Damai fleet sets a new standard for safety and comfort: Our vessels have been specifically designed for cruising and diving in the tropical waters of Indonesia with passenger well-being our top priority. We specialize in small groups receiving personalized service on purpose-built traditional wooden schooners with a dive-guide-to-guest ratio of 1 to 4. We started what will become the industry standard!
SPONSOR
7-night tiger shark dive package for two with Cozy Scuba Club, Fuvahmulah, Maldives, including accommodation at Cozy Roots
Cozy Scuba Club (formerly Fuvahmulah Scuba Club) is a established dive operator based in Fuvahmulah, Maldives, internationally recognized for its tiger shark diving, pelagic encounters, and professional dive operations. With years of operational experience in the region, our team is committed to safety, responsible diving practices, and consistent service standards, delivering memorable underwater experiences for divers from around the world. Fuvahmulah is internationally renowned for its resident population of tiger sharks, ranging from curious juveniles to fully grown adults, some reaching up to 16 feet in length. These sharks are encountered consistently year round, making the island a global reference point for reliable shark diving. In addition to tiger sharks, divers may encounter a wide variety of pelagic species, including thresher sharks, scalloped hammerheads, silky sharks, silvertips, oceanic whitetips, manta rays, and seasonal whale sharks. Schools of jacks, tuna, barracuda, and large reef fish create dynamic, action-filled dives in clear blue water.
SPONSOR
7-night dive package for two guests at Walindi Dive Resort, Papua New Guinea
Walindi Resort is a small dive resort, situated on the shores of Kimbe Bay, Northern New Britain, Papua New Guinea. New Britain is the largest of Papua New Guinea’s Islands. Walindi’s accommodation consists of 12 self contained, comfortable bure style bungalows spread along the beach front, and surrounded by rainforest gardens. The bungalows are constructed of local materials and timbers, with thatched roofs. They are all fully screened, with private bathroom, a kitchenette with tea and coffee making facilities, and ceiling fans. Laundry service daily is included in the tariff.
SPONSOR
Fotocore GT-Pro strobes (pair)
Fotocore is specialized in designing and manufacturing underwater lighting equipment. The company is committed to providing high-end, precise, safe, and functional diving lights. New models are developed based on the feedback of professional divers and underwater photographers around the world, ensuring that all products are safe and user-friendly. All Fotocore products are rigorously tested up to a depth of 100 meters (330 feet). Fotocore’s mission is to provide the very best quality products and become the most trusted brand in the field of underwater photography equipment.
10-night dive resort package with 5 nights at Lembeh Resort and 5 nights at Murex Bangka, Sulawesi, Indonesia
Lembeh Resort is a spectacular boutique style resort situated on Lembeh Island and perched above the beautiful Strait. The property is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and blends perfectly into the landscape. All guest cottages boast spacious verandas for perfect views of glorious North Sulawesi sunsets and an intimate connection with nature.
Situated on a palm-fringed white sand beach, Murex Bangka offers a pristine tropical island experience. Drift away in a hammock while listening to the waves lapping on the shore, swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters in front of the resort, explore the ocean by sea kayak or enjoy a sundowner while watching the glowing sunset over the ocean. If you’ve been dreaming of a remote island escape, Bangka Island is a must.
At both resorts, modern amenities including air-conditioning, mini bar, Wi-Fi Internet and spa treatments ensure your comfort and relaxation.
SPONSOR
7-night package at Silver Reef Dive Resort, Dumaguete, Philippines
Nestled in the breathtaking coastal town of Dumaguete, Philippines, Silver Reef Dive Resort, offers a serene and idyllic retreat for those seeking a tranquil escape. With its stunning ocean views, world-class diving opportunities, and impeccable service, this resort is the perfect destination for both adventure enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike. Silver Reef Dive Resort boasts a range of well-appointed rooms to suit every traveler’s needs. From spacious deluxe rooms to luxurious suites, each accommodation is tastefully designed with a harmonious blend of contemporary elements and local touches. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant marine life through exhilarating dives, unwinding by the poolside, or indulging in a soothing massage treatment, Silver Reef Dive Resort promises an experience that will leave you longing to return.
SPONSOR
QYSEA Fifish V-EVO underwater drone kit 4K
Established in 2016, QYSEA is committed to delivering high-quality R&D, manufacturing, and sales of underwater robots. It has broken industrial barriers to establish a leading market position with its innovative underwater drone technology. Most importantly, QYSEA is focused on bringing the public a greater ability to connect on with the underwater world along with its inhabitants and ecosystems, as well as to generate greater awareness on various ocean-related issues and topics. At QYSEA, we have a passion for discovery in all things nature. It is our life-long goal to drive innovation, help others develop greater ocean knowledge, rebuild the marine industry, and bring the 2.0 Age of Discovery to the world. Here at QYSEA, you will find a product that will fit your profession, hobby, sport, passion for the oceans!
7-night package at Lissenung Island Resort, Papua New Guinea
Lissenung Island Resort is a 20-minute boat ride from Kavieng, the capital of Papua New Guinea’s New Ireland province. The resort is situated on a small private island with a white sandy beach surrounded by colorful reefs. Eight oceanfront rooms in four duplex bungalows, furnished with hardwood floors and spacious verandahs, are spread out over the island. The main house, or “haus win”, offers comfortable chairs on a sandy floor, and it is here where cold drinks and delicious meals await guests. Fresh seafood such as fish, crabs and lobster feature high on a daily-changing menu. Special dietary requirements can be catered for on request.
SPONSOR
SUBLUE Navbow+ scooter with photographic platform
SUBLUE is the world’s first company to launch a portable underwater scooter. As an innovative enterprise dedicated to the independent research, development, manufacturing, and sales of underwater technology products, SUBLUE holds numerous patents for inventions and designs, establishing itself as the pioneer and leader in portable underwater scooter products. Over the years, SUBLUE has continuously pursued technological innovation and craftsmanship improvement, leading the industry in areas such as sealing and corrosion resistance, power control, underwater energy, and underwater propulsion. SUBLUE is committed to creating high-quality and reliable products, supported by a comprehensive quality management system. Significant investments are made in testing instruments, equipment, and facilities, ensuring that every product undergoes rigorous testing before leaving the factory to ensure it reaches consumers in optimal condition.
AquaTech EDGE Pro water housing for mirrorless camera of choice
AquaTech has been at the forefront of the design and manufacture of professional photographic accessories since 1998. Our Sport Housings are used in several different genres of photography such as advertising, surfing, sailing, documentary, ocean seascape art, fashion, fishing, Olympic water sports, and more. The introduction of our Sport Shield in 2001 helped us to expand our areas of focus into other fields of photography that exist outside of water, such as wildlife and outdoor sports. In 2017, we released the AxisGO range. Bringing everything we learned from our Sport Housings, we were able to offer a high-quality professional water housing system for the world’s most famous modern-day camera, the iPhone. Our products are designed to protect against the harshest environments while allowing for incredible images and stunning video to be captured.
OM Digital Solutions announced the change of brand name from “Olympus” to “OM System” in October 2021. “OM” represents our origin and identity, embodying the attitude of always “challenging convention and creating new things.” It is also a declaration that we will continue to evolve and take on new challenges as a new company, while respecting the history and spirit of Olympus. OM Digital Solutions is driven by the desire to “challenge ourselves to create new products that did not exist in the world and bring joy to our customers.”
Kraken Sports originally started as a dive torch company with the aim of providing quality dive torches at great prices, with excellent customer service. The company now also produces imaging tools and photography products, including camera housings and strobes. Kraken Sports is located in London, Ontario, Canada.
5-day, 4-night diving package with Aquatica Dive Resort, Timor-Leste
Aquatica Dive Resort is a PADI 5 Star dive resort located in Dili, Timor-Leste. Aquatica is an Australian owned and run business established in 2013. Owners Desmond and Jennifer, along with their team of dedicated, hard-working staff, ensure guests are looked after as they explore the natural beauty of the country. Part of the Coral Triangle, Timor-Leste has some of the best shore diving in the world, with more than 30 dive sites to choose from and many more yet to be explored and discovered.
SPONSOR
SeaLife SportDiver Ultra smartphone housing with 6in/15cm Wide Angle Dome Lens
SeaLife offers a wide array of popular digital underwater cameras, exciting LED lighing systems, and camera accessories. SeaLife was established in the early 1990s to offer a simple and fun way to capture undersea wildlife and underwater memories in an easy, uncomplicated way. Today, this is still the standard that SeaLife sets. SeaLife developed the world’s first commercially available underwater digital camera and is the only imaging and lighting brand that focuses entirely on diving, snorkeling and water sports. This specialized approach assures the highest degree of satisfaction with our extensive base of users. SeaLife is constantly evaluating their products to ensure that their equipment delivers the most consistent results, even in extreme and difficult conditions.
Backscatter Atom Flash package (strobe, batteries, charger and diffusers)
The world’s leading retailer of underwater imaging equipment, Backscatter has been serving underwater photographers and videographers of every skill level, from point-and-shoot to professional, for over 30 years. Headquartered in Monterey, California, Backscatter lives by the philosophy, “We dive, shoot and service everything we sell,” and has created some of the most essential gear used by underwater shooters, including the FLIP filter system for GoPro and the Mini Flash and Optical Snoot. The company also offers comprehensive gear reviews and other educational online content as well as specialized underwater photo and video trips. Every purchase from Backscatter always includes free lifetime tech support.
Isotta housing for action camera of choice (with tray, handles and ball mounts)
Since 1967 Isotta’s family has marketed high-end equipment for underwater video, photography and lighting, starting its own production in 1980. In four decades of development, the company has always offered its customers cutting-edge signature red products that are fully manufactured in Italy. With extensive industry experience, we strive to build the highest-quality products to keep photographers around the world comfortable when shooting underwater and their cameras protected from the elements, empowering them to frame memorable moments in water.
Garmin is a global technology company specializing in GPS navigation, wearable technology, and smart devices for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and fitness markets. Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Olathe, Kansas, Garmin is recognized for developing innovative products that combine advanced navigation, health monitoring, and communication capabilities. Its product portfolio includes smartwatches, dive computers, fishfinders, avionics, and in-car navigation systems. Garmin’s commitment to quality, durability, and user-focused design has made it a trusted brand among athletes, adventurers, pilots, and everyday consumers worldwide. The company continues to expand through technological innovation and strong global market presence.
Fourth Element is dedicated to creating the highest performing equipment for your adventures, from scuba diving to freediving, snorkeling and swimming. Fourth Element understands the unique challenges divers face and their range of products is designed to meet the needs of divers of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. Fourth Element’s commitment to innovation ensures that you always have access to the latest advancements in diving equipment.
Inon UCL-G55 close-up lens for action cameras with accessories
Inon, a renowned underwater photography brand hailing from Japan, has carved a niche for itself in the realm of aquatic imaging with its unparalleled innovation and dedication to excellence. With roots deeply embedded in the rich maritime culture of Japan, Inon has emerged as a leading force in the underwater photography industry, captivating enthusiasts and professionals alike with its cutting-edge equipment and advanced technology. From compact cameras to sophisticated lighting systems and accessories, Inon’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of underwater imaging has earned it a reputation for delivering exceptional quality and performance in the most challenging aquatic environments. With a legacy built on precision engineering and a relentless pursuit of perfection, Inon continues to inspire photographers worldwide to explore the depths and capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the underwater world.
OrcaTorch is a brand that specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality dive lights for underwater enthusiasts. The brand’s name, OrcaTorch, was inspired by the orca, a powerful and intelligent marine predator, and the torch, a symbol of light and illumination. Since its inception in 2014, OrcaTorch has been dedicated to innovation and quality. OrcaTorch invests heavily in research and development to create dive lights that are not only powerful and durable but also user-friendly and easy to operate. Today, OrcaTorch is recognized as one of the leading brands in the diving industry. Its products are used by professional divers and underwater photographers around the world. OrcaTorch continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with underwater lighting technology.
2-day PADI Freediving course with Abyss Scuba Diving, Sydney
Abyss Scuba Diving is Sydney’s most convenient PADI 5-star dive shop for those looking to explore the city’s best scuba diving. Abyss offers both boat dives and complimentary guided shore dives, as well as trips to different dive spots around New South Wales. On average, Abyss offers upwards of 50 diving activities monthly. Abyss also offers various freediving courses, including PADI Freediver, PADI Advanced Freediver, and PADI Mermaid. All our instructors are highly qualified, insured, and trained in emergency first response, oxygen administration, and rescue scenarios.
SPONSOR
One-year membership to The Underwater Club online underwater photography school and club
The Underwater Club is the world’s first online underwater photography school and community, bringing together passionate image-makers from 26 countries—and counting. Its mission is to make underwater photography easier to learn, while connecting underwater photographers from around the world—helping them share ideas and have fun as they grow together. The Club offers a comprehensive learning experience through 40 structured modules, 46 quizzes, and over 16 hours of video-based training. The curriculum spans both foundational techniques and advanced creative skills, all designed for self-paced learning. Every month, members connect through at least three live online events, which may include expert-led masterclasses, image critique sessions, and interactive Q&As, where founder Nicolas Remy shares his knowledge and answers member questions. The learning continues on the Club’s private forums, where members get constructive feedback on their images, advice on gear, and guidance on photo competitions. The Underwater Club also runs a limited number of in-person photo workshops each year, where Club members get priority registration.
One-year membership to The Underwater Club includes access to all previous webinar recordings as well as photo coach support on the club forums and during monthly live Q&A meetings
SPONSOR
SAGA +10 diopter achromatic macro lens
SAGA has been making high-quality accessories for underwater photographers since 2006. They are particularly well known for their unique lenses for creating artistic effects, the Magic Ball and the Magic Tube. The company produces a range of wet lenses for macro photography, including +5, +10, +15, +20 and +25 diopters.
Double Dive at Nguthungulli Julian Rocks with Sundive Byron Bay
Established in 1988, Sundive is the only dive center located in Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia. Sundive has a 5 Star PADI rating, representing the company’s commitment to quality, safety and service. Their two custom rigid hull inflatable boats are some of the fastest in the Bay, perfect for the 10-minute ride out to the area’s dive and snorkeling sites. Sundive’s team consist of the most experienced and highly qualified instructors, guides and boat captains, ensuring that each and every trip is a truly enjoyable and memorable experience.
