The ROAR awards open

Russell Hanly, chief executive of Media24 Digital, the principal sponsor,says: "The online and digital marketing arena hasn't received the lion's share of exposure in the mix of reputable industry awards. Last year saw an overwhelming response with a high standard of entries. If this is anything to go by, the market is clearly ready to be rewarded for its digital endeavours."

With a primary focus on groundbreaking creativity, a multi-disciplinary panel of judges will assess entries submitted according to criteria including concept and execution, brand relevance, design and branding, originality, call to action and best use of online media to meet campaign objectives.

"We're looking to reward online advertising that breaks new ground and that capitalises on the uniquely interactive nature of the medium," says Hanly.

Entrants are asked to point their web browsers to www.roar.co.za for entry details and have been urged to note the deadline of 31 October 2005. Entries will be accepted across all forms of online advertising, including banner advertising, rich media and email marketing campaigns. Winners will be announced end-November 2005.

The ROAR 2005 panel of judges include: Adam Whitehouse (Stonewall), Gerry Human (Ogilvy), Quintin Mills (Kitsch Designs), Renato Quaroni (Digerati) and Russell Hanly (Media24 Digital).