Dawn to Dusk
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Picking up a board to deliberately dive into a bitter cold body of water in the middle of winter is no easy feat. Nor is exposing oneself to turbulent waves and currents while hazarding the possibility of being pummeled into a rocky seabed. Yet nearly 2.5 million visitors are drawn to Australia’s Surf Coast Shire each year, relishing in the sport of world-class surfing.
The sport of surfing has existed and evolved for centuries – spreading its roots across the world and making its mark on the land down under. The progression of the sport is largely accredited to Australia, particularly along its Surf Coast Shire, establishing surfing as a profession and refining the boards that are used today. The culture of this region is heavily influenced by the sport, with locals shaping their days around the tides to catch a single wave. The ocean acts as a remedy, both physically and psychologically – inevitably drawing nearly 90% of Australians to the country’s coastlines, and alluring travelers like myself to do the same. The call to surf varies from person to person, yet the common thread remains – those who live by the sea are drawn into it.
The ebb and flow of the sport is symbolic of mankind’s connection to the sea – a constant give and take. It requires significant patience and drive to endure and finesse the elements until reaching a mutualistic relationship. The assimilation and profound understanding between nature and surfer is essential in perfecting the sport. The waves can provide a smooth, tranquil experience or an aggressive, dynamic ride – shifting after each set. The photographs reflect this relationship between surfer and sea – with moments the two blend harmoniously into the rich, blue scene or starkly contrast one another as separate entities.
At The Breakwater’s Edge
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In one of Melbourne’s busiest suburbs lives a colony of the world’s smallest penguins—the St. Kilda Little Penguins. Despite challenges like pollution, boat traffic, construction, and human activity, this resilient colony adapts and endures, nesting within rocky burrows of the breakwater.
At the heart of this story is Julia Morais, a dedicated marine conservationist and PhD student, who has visited this colony nearly every week for the past two years. This project not only highlights the perseverance of the colony but stresses the essential role human’s play in their future through Julia’s commitment to monitoring and protecting the penguins.
I aim to showcase the interdependence between the penguins and their urban surroundings - capturing what makes this colony unique through Julia’s perspective. This documentary series provides a glimpse into the colony’s lives by showcasing their environment and the dedication Julia demonstrates in determining their future. It serves as a reminder that while nature may be resilient, it is not invincible, and we bear a responsibility to advocate for the wildlife that shares our urban spaces.
Nostalgia in Exploration
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From my first road trip, sailing expedition, and cross-country flight, adventure has always been a cornerstone of my life. My parents, both passionate about exploring the world, instilled this value in me early on. My father sailed across the Atlantic with a small crew, while my mother volunteered with the Peace Corps in a remote village in West Africa. Their adventures shaped their independence and worldview, and I have followed their lead, living abroad and traveling to over a dozen countries.
Now, living in Melbourne, I’ve had the privilege of expanding my global network and forming meaningful connections. Each journey deepens my sense of belonging, not just in Australia, but within a shared passion for exploration. These experiences link me to my parents’ adventurous spirit while fostering new bonds with those I meet along the way. Road trips, in particular, have offered new memories while evoking a sense of nostalgia.
As I travel, I’ve made it my mission to capture the fleeting moments that leave an impression—whether it's the energy of my traveling companions, the view from the car window, the pull of a new destination, or the clarity of a cherished memory. These images allow me to reflect on my experiences and invite others to connect with their own travels, or perhaps inspire new journeys ahead.
No Space for Waste
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Being raised in the country, I gained an appreciation for the great outdoors at a young age. Much of my free time was spent outside playing sports after school or relaxing by the river with friends and family. This respect and appreciation for nature has seeped into my love for photography today, where many of my favorite photographers are those focused on environmental conservation.
With this value in mind, I chose to do my documentary on the Port Phillip EcoCentre and its community garden volunteers. Many of these volunteers were born in Melbourne and have witnessed the changes this suburb has faced due to tourism and pollution. As a result, the EcoCentre and its volunteers have made it their mission to create a more sustainable and cleaner environment within Saint Kilda. One way this is done is by practicing more eco-friendly methods of urban agriculture in small spaces. They reduce their plastic footprint by not buying packaged produce, all while creating a sense of community.
While all the volunteers share a passion for environmental conservation, their personalities are as diverse as the plants they grow. Wendy is a strong and confident woman who used to direct plays and act in dramas; while the quirky yet brilliant Allen collects crystals, he calls his “babies and wives,” and knows ample facts about the Egyptian queen Cleopatra. As they meet each Friday, they care for one another just as they do the garden. The EcoCentre is as unique, endearing, and inspiring as the ideas, passions, and characters it embodies.