An entry from Germany has won an international video competition run by The University of Western Australia, just pipping local Perth entrant Bradley Curnow, who came second.

The UWA Machinima Challenge called for entrants from around the world to create videos that would capture the four main elements that make up the heart of the UWA presence in the virtual world of Second Life. These elements are architecture, teaching, research and the arts.

UWA launched its presence in Second Life in October last year to enable residents to interact via the Internet through avatars, or virtual representations of themselves. Since then, UWA has hosted a successful 3D art and architectural challenge, which led to the setting up of the UWA Machinima Challenge.

UWA School Manager of Physics Jay Jay Jegathesan said Machinima used real-time 3D graphics rendering engines to generate computer animation.

"We had a great response to the challenge, with 13 finalists shortlisted from the United States, Canada, Spain, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Australia," Mr Jegathesan said.

UWA Vice-Chancellor Professor Alan Robson, Chair of the 12-member international judging panel, said he was impressed by the ingenuity, clarity and beauty of the entries.

"I would like to congratulate all those who were involved in organising and participating in this event," Professor Robson said.
 

（www.eduwo.com, Anna）