Drought and Dust hits home for Frensham student

The photograph, titled Drought and Dust, was third placed in the Your Health Link National Photographic Competition (High School division).

The purpose of the competition was to inform people, particularly youth, about the importance of healthy living, by taking pictures of what a healthy lifestyle looks like to them.

Miranda’s photograph speaks to the rural lifestyle during drought and resonated with the judges.

“The picture was taken late one afternoon as the sheep were mustered into the yards and shows the brown and red dust that created an aura over the landscape, and in that one moment it captured the harsh colours representing the presence of drought,” Miranda said.

“Yet it is the striking blue sky contrasting with the orange colours that give the image a sense of peace and hope, and the transition of the moving sheep symbolises the feeling of life.

“The thought of new beginnings follows them as they simultaneously move as one and battle the harsh reality of drought.

“The image also reflects what my family’s business is all about - producing profitable merino sheep.

“My Dad has worked tirelessly, like many others, to maintain stock and keep a positive attitude during such a harsh period.

“He does not see farming as work – he sees it as his passion.

“His determination and humble attitude to his achievements is what inspired me to take photos.

“These images are a reflection of his hard work and tireless dedication to the wool industry and family.” 

Agriculture, particularly the wool industry, is also Miranda’s passion and she plans to make it her career.

Miranda studies agriculture at Frensham and has been successful in sheep handling and wool classing as a member of the Frensham show team.

Through her photography, Miranda feels she can easily share her interest in agriculture with others.