rainspotting: the Powerhouse Museum International Photo Competition 2012 is proudly presented by the Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, commonly known as the Powerhouse Museum, Sydney, Australia. The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences also includes the Sydney Observatory and the Powerhouse Discovery Centre and is Australias leading cultural institution dedicated to celebrating human ingenuity. Now in its third year the Trainspotting competition attracts entrants, both amateur and professional, from around the world. From casual observers to avid railway photographers, the competition draws an impressive range of entries.

Known internationally for its significant rail and steam collection, the Museum is also a major supporter of the Hunter Valley Steamfest, the largest annual steam festival in NSW. Steamfest 2012 will provide another wonderful opportunity for the Museum to showcase some of its unique engineering exhibits. The 2012 event will also host a selection of images from the 2011 Trainspotting competition.

A selection of the competition entries received will be showcased on the Museums Photo of the Day blog and posted on the Museums website. Following judging, the winners and highly commended entries will be displayed in either print or digital format at the Museum. After the exhibition closes at the Museum it may travel to selected venues in NSW and other states in Australia.