The Can Assist Southern Highland Botanical Art and Illustration Prize officially opened on July 17, at the Round Yard in Retford Park.

The prize is a new partnership between Can Assist Southern Highlands (CASH), and the Botanical Art Society of Australia (BASA).

"Can Assist ensures all people in the Southern Highlands have equitable access to cancer treatment and care by providing them with financial assistance and practical support," said CASH fundraising head Desmond Freeman.

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"BASA's generosity enables us to continue our local and important work, supporting individuals who are affected by cancer," said prize organiser Susan Brindle.

Botanical artist Angela Lober won first place for her watercolour piece Spear Lily, Doryanthes palmeri, and was presented with an award, and $2000 by Mr Freeman.

The judging panel said her work was "a stunningly accurate execution; it has a brilliant three-dimensional effect."

Botanical artist Susannah Blaxill from Bowral, was awarded second place for her piece Autumn Strawberry and Leaf, which was snapped up quickly by a buyer.

As part of her accolade, she received a $1000 cash prize.

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The award will become an annual event celebrating the change in seasons, where the charity will receive 25 per cent of the sales and other funds collected at the exhibition.

Retford Park property manager Ann Frederick announced the partnership between CASH and the National Trust during the opening.

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The exhibition can be viewed in the White Cottage gallery every Thursday to Sunday, until August 14.

It is open from 10am to 4pm.

It is a free event but any donations made upon entry will go directly to Can Assist.

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