By Dominique Tassell
A local photographer has secured a spot in Rural Aid’s new calendar.
Carla Pidgeon from Allora won a spot in the calendar for her photo taken on her farm in Allora.
Carla said finding out she’d been included in the calendar was very exciting.
“I had to pinch myself,” she joked.
She said it’s very cool to think her photo will be up around the country, and thinks the “other entries are 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.
They farm 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 hasn’t had much to do with Rural Aid in the past, she thinks they’re 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’ll do with her $250 in prize money, Carla said she has “no idea”.
“I might splurge on myself,” she joked. “haven’t thought that far ahead.”
Of the other twelve calendar spots, two more were secured by Queenslanders.
Brisbane photographer Neil Kendall will have a photo taken in Warwick featured.
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 mesmerizing 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,” he said.
“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 winner’s circle.
“A huge congratulations to our talented winners who will now have their photos used in Rural Aid’s 2023 calendar,” Mr Warlters said.
Mr Warlters also reflected on the huge jump in entries from last year.
“It gets harder to pick the winners every year!” Mr Warlters 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.
