This prize also honours the legacy of David Roche AM (1930-2013), a passionate advocate for pedigree dogs and the founder of the celebrated Fermoy Kennels in North Adelaide, whose dogs won numerous national and international Best in Show awards from the 1950s to the early 2010s.
The Best in Show 2025 aims to showcase the beauty, character, and joy dogs bring into our lives through the art of photography. Open to both amateur and professional photographers, the competition offers a fantastic first prize of $5,000. There are also categories for younger photographers (ages 12-18) with a $500 prize, and a $500 People’s Choice Award for the most popular image.
Finalists will have their work featured in a special exhibition at the David Roche Gallery from 30 August to 25 October 2025. Entrants can submit up to four photographs in any of the following categories: Dog Portrait, Dogs and Companions, Dogs in Action, and Puppies.
The judging panel for the Best in Show 2025 includes Robert Reason, Director of the David Roche Gallery, alongside internationally respected animal photographer Alex Cearns OAM. Alex commented, “I am thrilled to be part of the Best in Show 2025 judging panel. It’s an honour to help celebrate the creativity and passion of photographers who share my love of capturing the spirit of dogs.” I look forward to seeing the stunning entries that reflect this cherished bond.”
To be eligible for the competition, all entries must be original colour photographs taken in Australia after 19 May 2023. The prize is open to Australian citizens or residents of Australia until the end of 2025. Full details and entry instructions are available on the David Roche Gallery website at www.rochegallery.com.au/BisPrize/
Entries to David Roche Gallery’s Best in Show 2025: Australian Photographic Dog Prize is now open until 5pm (ACDT) on 19 May 2025.
