The aim behind launching the art prize was to encourage artists to capture the landscapes of the Bathurst region.

Organised by Tremain’s Mill owner Stephen Birrell, the prize has already attracted entries from across the Central West.

“We’ve already received a number from Orange, Lithgow and Bathurst, and it does seem to be a lot of regional artists which has been great,” he said. “We just thought we’d like to encourage artists to start recording what they thought was important.”

And, thanks to recent local sponsorship, prize money has now been doubled.

First prize in the open category is now $4000, the Young Artist Prize is $2000 and the Peoples’ Choice Award $2000.

Judging will be conducted by a panel of four judges.

Entries have now been extended until February 28, while works must be submitted up to March 31.