The call has gone out for printers to get ringside for the 31st National Print Awards, this year striking a decidedly pugilistic tone. The event Printing Industries have dubbed the final bout in the Print Championship of Australia promises ‘a no-holds barred battle’ looks set to go off in a white heat of toner and testosterone at the Westin in Sydney, Friday May 23.
The 2014 NPAs will spread across 33 printing ‘rounds’, with finalists culled from more than 1700 state contenders from the 2013 season of PICAs, as well as an evening of entertainment. John Wanless, chairman of promoters, declares that the judges will be some of the toughest in the industry and promises the show will pack a quite a punch.
“Those lining up in Sydney – whether they be the quick and nimble digital competitors, the quality offset performers with their stamina and endurance, of the true web and wide format heavyweights – have already been putting in the hard yards, day after day, week after week, honing their performance as they strive for excellence. In May, it will all pay off when the Champions take home the prize,” said Wanless.
Despite kicking off with a considerable amount of gusto, the 2014 Awards could well be the last NPA event under its current format. Running of the event was transferred wholly to the PIAA after the organising company, limited by guarantee, was wound up. With entrants numbers declining, the PIAA commissioned a review of the Awards system to ensure the event’s ongoing relevance, carried out late last year by former IPMG head Stephen Anstice.
Anstice has since delivered his report to the board, which is now considering how to implement the findings. If there is indeed a re-jig on the cards, it is set to come into effect for the 2015 NPAs.
To get in on the action of this year’s knock-out ‘night-of-nights’, download a booking form from www.nationalprintawards.com.au or contact the promoters directly at printawards@printnet.com.au