2024 CQ in Focus Nature Photography Competition – Coming Soon!

Posted on March 7th, 2024

Get your cameras ready, it’s nearly time for this year’s CQ in Focus Nature Photography Competition.

Open to anyone in central Queensland, this years competition will have $8,000 worth of prizes up for grabs.

FBA is looking for the best images of the region’s natural assets, to celebrate the environment that sustains one of the most productive regions in Australia.

Categories include soil, air, groundwater, coastal and marine ecosystems, freshwater rivers and wetlands, land-based ecosystems and people/communities.

For Michael Loader, entering FBA’s annual CQ in Focus nature photography competition was a way to push his creativity and show his appreciation for the central Queensland environment.

The Keppel Sands man said photography was a life-long passion that brings him a sense of calm.

Starting with film photography and gradually transitioning to digital, Michael said he enjoyed the mindfulness that came with capturing nature.

“Engaging in nature photography can be a mindful activity, allowing you to disconnect from daily stresses and anxieties,” Michael said.

“Focusing on composition, capturing the perfect shot, and simply being present in the natural environment can offer a sense of peace.”

The CQ in Focus Nature competition asks entrants to capture one or more of the Fitzroy region’s six major natural assets and/or the people or communities caring for them.

Michael was one of the seven major category winners in the 2023 competition.

He won the Coastal and Marine Ecosystems category with a drone image of a small side creek running off Pumpkin Creek at Keppel Sands.

I was first drawn to the S-shape which acts as a visual guide, inviting the viewer to explore the winding path of the creek and imagine the life it sustains,” Michael said.

“Trying to capture the perfect image, especially in challenging environments, can provide a strong sense of accomplishment. Seeing your vision come to life through the lens can be incredibly rewarding.”

FBA’s Engagement and Impact Officer Richa Neupane is the competition coordinator and said it’s a time for the community to appreciate the beauty of central Queensland’s natural assets through the lens.

“We all have a role to play in building a more sustainable future and the CQ in Focus Nature Photography competition offers a fun and meaningful opportunity to get involved,” Richa said.

“We hope the competition also inspires the community to care for the natural environment around them.”

“We’d love to see entries from both amateur and professional photographers, of any age, who live, work, play or study in the Fitzroy region.

“In previous years we’ve seen fantastic entries from those who generously and creatively shared their personal connection to the region and desire to protect its natural assets. We are excited to see what the people of CQ submit this year.”

Annette Ross
John McGrath
Alison Kajewski
Isabel White
Nicole Thornton
Jamie Meyer
The 2023 CQ in Focus Nature photography competition major prize winners.

As an avid photographer and former winner, Michael is urging the community to get involved.

“Share your passion for the region, this is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Fitzroy Region through your lens.

“It’s a chance to share your passion for this special place with others!

“This competition also offers a platform to showcase your work to a wider audience and potentially win excellent prizes. Recognition and exposure can be a great boost for any passionate photographer.”

Prizes include

  • Two nights accommodation at GKI Hideaway for four people
  • Capricorn Caves Adventure Cave Tour for four people + one night accommodation at Hedlow Retreat
  • Great Keppel Island & Capricorn Coast Scenic 45 minute helicopter flight for up to three passengers
  • Carnarvon Gorge day and night tours for four people + two nights accommodation at Big4 Breeze Holiday Parks
  • Two nights accommodation at Ferns Hideaway for four people + Waterpark Farm ecotour
  • Sunset cruise on the Fitzroy River + one night accommodation at the Empire Hotel Rockhampton for four people
  • 40 minute bush helicopter scenic flight over Central Highlands for three people + one night accommodation for three people at Clermont Motor Country Inn
  • Two day tickets to the St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend Event including entry, lunch and glamping for two people

The competition opens Friday 15 March and closes 9am Monday, 15 April.

Enter here: https://cqss2030.com.au/2024-nature-photography-competition/

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