Three Queensland photographers have secured a spot in Rural Aid’s new calendar, showcasing the beauty of rural life.
Allora-based Carla Pidgeon won a spot in the calendar for a photo taken on her farm.
Carla said finding out she had been included in the calendar was exciting.
“I had to pinch myself,” she joked.
She said it was “very cool” to think her photo would be admired around the country and described the other entries as “just brilliant”.
“They have a good lineup,” she said.
Carla said she saw the competition on social media and decided to enter.
“I’ve just started using social media to post photos of the farm,” she said.
Carla’s family farms sheep, cattle and grain.
You can find her on Instagram @arolla4362 or Allora spelt backwards with the postcode.
“I just take photos for a hobby, just taking photos along the way,” she said.
Carla said while she has had limited association with Rural Aid in the past, she thought they were “a great organisation”.
“What they do for people on the land is great,” she said. “They’re a great organisation to support.”
When asked what she would do with her $250 in prize money, Carla said she has “no idea”.
“I might splurge on myself,” she joked. “I haven’t thought that far ahead.”
Of the other 12 calendar spots, two more were secured by Queenslanders.
Brisbane photographer Neil Kendall will have a photo featured, taken in Warwick.
His photo was taken at the Warwick Rodeo during the Ladies Silver Cup Campdraft.
“In extremely wet conditions,” he joked.
While previously Neil has travelled around the world taking photos, the Covid pandemic forced him to look within his home state.
“It’s amazing how much goes on in rural Queensland when you go looking for it,” he said.
Wanting to keep his skills sharp, he had to go find photo opportunities.
Neil has previously been featured by Canon and has taken photos at the Boonah Show and Millmerran Show.
He said he’ll travel anywhere within a few hours of Brisbane.
“I enjoy the nature and life in country Queensland,” he said.
“It’s pretty lively, there’s lots going on.”
Neil would love to get in contact with the woman in the photo, as he was unable to at the event. You can find Neil on Instagram @bucketlisttravelphotos.
Jasmine Newton’s photo, taken in Mitchell on the Western Downs, will also be featured in the calendar.
More than 1100 photographic entries were received from farms right across the country, a record for the Spirt of the Bush competition.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said it was heartening to see so many quality captures.
“The Spirit of the Bush competition attracts photos from every corner of the country and reflects every part of life on the land,” Mr Warlters said.
“It’s mesmerising to see the highs and lows of farm life reflected in action shots, sweeping horizons and moments of quiet reflection.
“It’s great to see a theme of hope emerge from our images this year.
“The winning photos tell a story of both work and play. Events like harvest and planting are featured, as well as moments of rest, relaxation, and recreation.
“It’s fantastic to see so many jaw-dropping entries from West Australia in particular. Queensland and New South Wales’ snappers also feature heavily in the winners’ circle.
“A huge congratulations to our talented winners who will now have their photos used in Rural Aid’s 2023 calendar.”
Mr Warlters also reflected on the huge jump in entries from last year.
“It gets harder to pick the winners every year!” he said.
“Last year, Rural Aid received 720 entries. This year, more than 1100 were submitted!”
The Rural Aid 2023 calendar will be available for purchase and pre-order later this year. Supporters are encouraged to keep an eye on the Rural Aid social media pages for more information.
Proceeds will directly support Rural Aid’s range of programs to help farmers and their families.
