Photographs of the Milky Way starburst reflecting in a river, wandering emus and paw prints in the sand have been announced as the winners of the 2026 Bloom Festival photography competition.

Rob Evans’s stunning shot titled Astro on the River took out the 18+ category of the Shire of Broomehill-Tambellup’s Bloom Where We Live Photo Competition.

Taken in Tambellup, the photo depicts a glorious cluster of stars over the Gordon River, framed by the silhouettes of trees and shrubbery surrounding.

The under-18 winner was Tracks by L.G, who focused on two paw prints embedded in the sand of the Sorrento Road Creek.

A picture of a trio of elegant emus roaming a pristine paddock with the panorama of the Stirling Range in the background was the people’s choice winner.

Titled Emu Meanderings, it was taken by Lex Porebski in the North Toolbrunup area, just north of Lake Anderson.

Photos the judges decided were worthy of special mentions included both Canola Tracks and Spring Blossoms by Debbie Cristinelli, taken on a farm in Cashel Park in Tambellup, and Before the Darkness Falls by K.T from Great Southern Highway.

“A huge thank you to everyone who entered and shared their incredible photographs,” wrote the Shire of Broomhill-Tambellup in a social media post.

“Your images showcase the landscapes, wildlife, people, and moments that make our community such a special place to live.

“We’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to our judges Jo Kempin and Jenny Feast, who generously donated their time and expertise, and to everyone who took the time to vote and support the competition.”