I don’t know any budding photographers who couldn’t do with a five-grand cash injection or a bunch of vouchers from Canon. Lucky for them, all they have to do for a chance to win this stuff is what they do best – taking photos. The Heart of Gold International Film Festival is branching out and hosting the 2008 Heart Of Gold International Photographic Awards. They are calling for entries now and until January 15th next year. For all the competition details or to enter, head here.

Today is a big day for General Pants Co and for the people of Melbourne. GP’s will open their first flagship store on Bourke Street. It’s a total GREEN store complete with a vertical garden and lots of pretty installations from creative types like Natalie Wood from Something will decorate the space. There will also be a denim expert instore all day every day. On their first day of trade they are celebrating – with a carnival day of activity, performances and loads of gifts. 

Everyone loves a good old sale! 'A Good Old Day Vintage Clothing Sale' starts today and features a huge range of high quality vintage clothing, shoes and accesories, ranging from late Victorian, designer to 90's; mens, womens and childrenswear. The sale runs until Saturday 2nd August and opening hours are from 10am till 10pm each day. The Von Haus Room is the place to be, 1A Crossley St, Melbourne. Upstairs, above Von Haus, between Bourke and Little Bourke streets. PS. Sadly there will be no eftpos facilities so strap yourself with cash.

Visionary local label Artechoke presents Made in Melbourne towards the end of this week, a celebration of Melbourne’s independent fashion and video art scene. Featuring 8 emerging street-wear designers, this not-for-profit runway show will include a first glimpse into Spring/Summer 2009. Featured designers are Artechoke (pictured below), Limedrop, Lenko, Rest in Peace, Who Am Eye, Kosi Kosi, Die Pretty and Serena van der Woodsen. All proceeds will be donated to the Reach Foundation, which helps young Australians fulfil their potential through interactive and experiential programs. Oh, what a good cause! Date: Thursday July 24th 2008. Location: Order of Melbourne, Level 2/401 Swanston St, Melbourne 3000. Time: Doors open 7:30pm. Tickets on sale now at www.madeinmelbourne.org.au ($10 + booking fee).

We are proud as punch to be involved with an awesome little exhibition in Canberra called Murmur, showcasing graphic and fine art from students and staff at the University of Canberra. There’s an opening do tomorrow night (Thursday 17th) with live music, lots of pretty things to look at and limited edition prints, original art and other goodies for sale. But for the eager beavers who just cannot wait, the show is actually on from today, Wednesday 16th till Tuesday 22nd July at The Front Gallery and Cafe, Wattle Street, Lyneham. It’s gold coin entry and what’s more, all profits go to the uni’s graphic design graduate exhibition so merely turning up will make you a patron of the arts. Such cuteness in the capital!