A Victorian artist has won the top award at Sydney's annual Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi.
James Parrett's work M-forty six won the Aqualand Award, worth $70,000, over 76 other artworks.
The artwork was described by Parrett as "an examination of circles and how they work together".
It will now be installed permanently in a public park in Mosman.
Independent federal politician Kerryn Phelps, who is expected to replace Malcolm Turnbull in the seat of Wentworth, announced the prize on Monday.
"It's a wonderful exhibition … it's the richest award in the Southern Hemisphere for sculpture," Dr Phelps told the crowd.
Two weeks of heavy rain in Sydney delayed installation and judging of the award, which is normally announced on the opening day.
An elated Mr Parrett said it was worth the wait.
"It's such an amazing prize," he said.
"Everyone talks about the rain, but when we turned up from Melbourne it was a sight to be seen."
He encouraged other artists to "keep on going and keep on making work that you love".
The iconic exhibition is now in its 22nd year and features 107 sculptures by artists from 21 countries.
Sculpture by the Sea closes on Sunday.
