In recognition of our 10 year anniversary, we are delighted to introduce a new category to celebrate the beauty and diversity of Australia. This category invites photographers to showcase the nation’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife, from rugged coastlines and vast deserts to iconic native species, capturing the spirit, scale, and natural wonder of Australia. Thank you to Tourism Australia for making this exciting new category a reality. Together, we’re proud to share these images of our spectacular country with the world.

Australia – Winning Image:

Winner: Michael Eastwell

‘Dance at Dawn’

Apart from its beauty, Cape Hillsborough is renowned for its resident kangaroos and wallabies. I visited the area for three consecutive sunrises, but it was on my final morning that I captured this beautiful spectacle, two wallabies playing on the beach as the sun burst through the surrounding clouds.

Image location: Cape Hillsborough, Queensland, Australia
Camera: Sony A7RIV with Sony 24-105 G OSS

Highly Commended: Conor Moore

‘Blue Anemone’

Blue Anemone captures a moment where two clownfish swim side by side above their rare blue anemone at the Frankland Islands. Captured in one of Australia’s most emblematic ecosystems, the Great Barrier Reef, this image is a reminder of the importance of protecting this UNESCO World Heritage Site in an era of global change.

Image location: Frankland Islands, Far North Queensland, Australia
Camera: Canon EOS 7D with Tokina 10-17mm F3.5-4.5 DX Fisheye Lens

Finalist: Chris Vanek

‘Tropical Chaos’

From walking through the amber sandstone gorges to driving alongside the vibrant green palms, the Mitchell Plateau is a place to be cherished. After departing the stunning Mitchell Falls area, we were stoked to encounter this terrific Frilled-neck Lizard crossing the road. A true icon of Australia.

Image location: Mitchell Plateau, Western Australia, Australia
Camera: Sony A7cii, Tamron 20mm f2.8 Di II OSD, Neewer TT560 Speedlite flash, Cygnustech diffuser

Finalist: Frazer Leal

‘Wings of Gold’

A male Regent Bowerbird displays his brilliant golden wings in flight, revealing the extraordinary colour normally hidden when perched. This striking bird was photographed in the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia. These ancient rainforests are rich in biodiversity, providing refuge for species found nowhere else in the world.

Image location: Lamington National Park, Queensland, Australia
Camera: Sony Alpha 1 with Sony FE 400mm F2.8 GM

Finalist: Jake Lee

‘The Sky Through Stone’

I had photographed Nature’s Window before during the day, but wanted to see how this iconic Western Australian landmark transformed after dark. Located in Kalbarri National Park, the natural arch was sculpted from sandstone over millions of years by the forces of weathering and erosion. Its distinctive opening created the perfect frame for the night sky.

Image location: Kalbarri National Park, Western Australia, Australia
Camera: Canon R6 Mark II with RF 15-35mm F2.8L IS USM