My Photo scholarship 2011 entry
Australia | Tuesday, November 8, 2011 | 4 photos
When I was 19 I moved from the city lights of Brisbane, Australia, 1000km inland to the small town of BlackalI to work on a newspaper for my first job. Going in, I knew nothing about primary production or farming. So what I experienced and learnt in the 18 months I was there has changed the course of my life – dramatic as that sounds! – and now I can’t imagine living the ‘city life’ again.
Blackall, in central west Queensland, was once a burgeoning sheep and wool region. The area was founded on the sheep’s back and is home to the infamous shearer Jackie Howe who is known for hand shearing 321 sheep in seven hours and 40 minutes; a record that still stands. But over time, the largest operations have closed, the wool scours are now great tourist attractions or in ruins, and the remaining sheep stations are, primarily, run in conjunction with cattle. This is an important time for the sheep and wool industry in this area.
Before I left Blackall, I was fortunate to be invited to witness the annual sheep shearing at a property north-west of the town. I selected these four photographs as I believe they intricately show the behind-the-scenes and action in the wool shed. Despite the flurry of activity, the scene was calming and orderly, and not at all chaotic. I deliberately chose not to reveal the faces of the shearers, instead focusing on the process and the work.
I enjoy taking photographs that are slightly different to what might otherwise be taken. I am confident with a camera in my hand, but have a lot to learn about the workings of my camera, and the opportunity to learn on the job with a professional is one I would grab with both hands, eyes and ears.
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