The resilience, beauty, and spirit of rural Australia have been captured in the winning entries of Rural Aid’s sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photography Competition.
This year’s competition drew a record-breaking response, with 201 entrants submitting 429 photos – almost double the number received in 2024. The powerful images tell stories of life on the land, from moments of quiet reflection to the vastness and challenges of the Australian landscape.
Ten winners were each awarded a $250 prepaid Visa card for photos that judges said reflected the realities of rural life – its struggles, its triumphs, and the deep connection people share with country and community.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the competition continues to highlight stories that might otherwise go unseen.
“This year’s photos are a moving tribute to life outside the city limits. They tell stories of perseverance, pride and connection,” Mr Warlters said.
“There’s an authenticity to these images that resonates. Whether it’s a family working through drought, or a breathtaking sunrise over a remote property, the spirit of the bush shines through.”
Among the winners was Calliope’s Amy Ahchay, a first-time entrant, whose candid photograph of countrymen Rob and Gordon sharing a laugh over a cuppa in the paddock struck a chord with judges.
“I spotted Rob and Gordon deep in conversation across the paddock and just had to capture the moment. It was the perfect snapshot of bush life, two country larrikins, their horses, a cuppa, and a good laugh,” Amy said.
“To me, this is what the spirit of the bush is all about. It’s raw, it’s real, but it’s also full of heart. Mateship, storytelling, and that unshakable sense of connection that ties rural communities together.”
The winning images will feature across Rural Aid’s campaigns, publications and social media, helping to raise awareness of life in the bush and the people who call it home.
Rural Aid is also encouraging photographers to consider becoming volunteer content creators by donating images to support its fundraising and awareness work.
Since 2015, Rural Aid has provided vital support to farmers and rural communities, from hay and drinking water to mental health counselling and community-building initiatives. Now celebrating its 10th year, the charity continues to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with rural Australians, ensuring their stories – and their resilience – are never forgotten.
2025 Spirit of the Bush Photos (Photo Supplied)
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2024 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
