March 6, 2008

ROBERT BATEMAN CONTEST LAUNCHED AT THE VANCOUVER AQUARIUM

Vancouver, BC: The ninth annual Robert Bateman Writing and Art Contest launched today at the Vancouver Aquarium in the newly unveiled Frogs Forever? Exhibit. Grades 6 & 7 students from Burnaby’s Branford Elementary participating the Aquarium’s Chevron Aqua School program enjoyed a presentation of rare leopard frogs and American bullfrogs - Just a few of the new amphibians on display.

The contest encourages youth to make connections with their wildlife neighbours and become involved in protecting the future of our planet. Canadian wildlife artist Robert Bateman believes that caring begins with knowing and we need to experience nature.

First launched at the Aquarium in 2000, the contest has attracted hundreds of thousands of entries over the years from youth of all ages. This year's art contest invites youth to depict the wildlife they observe in their own backyards. With an eye on sustainability, the writing portion of the contest asks youth to describe in 40 words or less how they can protect the environment and what they are doing to ensure the future of the Earth.

The winning artwork will be selected for the 2009 Robert Bateman Contest calendar. Contest entries are due by Earth Day, April 22, 2008.

The Frogs Forever? Gallery is currently open to the Vancouver Aquariums visitors and all through Spring Break with presentations and feedings happening daily.

For more information regarding the Robert Bateman Get to Know contest, you can visit www.gettoknow.ca

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For further information, please contact:

Brenda Jones

Manager, Public Relations

publicrelations@vanaqua.org