Hidden Suburban Oasis

My Photo scholarship 2011 entry

Worldwide | Friday, November 4, 2011 | 5 photos

My name is Kristian Russell. I live in the City of Geelong, Victoria in order to study a Diploma of Conservation and Land Management. This is aimed at becoming a Park Ranger. I grew up in a tiny town of roughly 700 people called ‘Alma’ and was consistently surrounded by animals, some of which I had the pleasure of hand raising, and plants of both an indigenous and introduced nature. I have little knowledge about the cultures of other cities, as growing up I only knew people of European descent, let alone countries.
Growing up I was glued to documentaries. Never did I miss ‘The World Around Us’ or for that sake any other documentaries I stumbled upon. I loved anything where animals were a feature. Unfortunately this curiosity lead to countless occasions as a toddler where I attempted to free any caged animal.
Although not as rash as I once was; my passion for the environment, obtaining knowledge and seeing all that the world has to offer remains.
However I have always wished for more than just the viewing of the world’s wonders.
Upon viewing an add on the National Geographic Channel, with the use of a borrowed camera from a family member (I can’t afford a camera for myself), I spent hours outside searching for something over a few days. What I found was a rather quant lake just a stone’s throw away from my house that I had no knowledge of prior to this date. Although the indigenous animal inhabitants were somewhat common, I found great happiness in photographing them.
I have little experience with a camera. However I have great respect for people and animals alike, a passion for the environment, a thirst for adventure and most of all a want to learn more…