Tambellup local Debbie Cristinelli scores two winning photos in national Spirit of the Bush photography awards

Tambellup resident Debbie Cristinelli has beaten more than 300 entrants to claim two wins in the national Spirit of the Bush photography awards. Sales of the annual Rural Aid calendar raise funds for programs including Buy a Bale which supports farmers through floods, droughts and bushfires. “I was very delighted and it’s especially nice because it goes to a great cause in Rural Aid,” Mrs Cristinelli said. Rural Aid CEO John Warlters highlighted the competition’s variety in storytelling through images gathered from around Australia. “Each photo tells a compelling story, whether it be of a successful crop, sunset silhouette, or tender moment between a working dog and owner,” Mr Warlters said. Mr Warlters said all proceeds from calendar sales would be injected back into the community through various initiatives. “Any profits from the calendars’ sale are directed back into Rural Aid’s range of award-winning programs,” he said. Both winning photos were taken at the back of Mrs Cristinelli’s property, and blessed with a stroke of luck. “I wouldn’t say there was a lot of thought put into it,” Mrs Cristinelli said. “I liked the cloud formations at golden hour in the paddock picture, and the galahs were squabbling while I was hanging out the washing.” Two other fellow West Australians Anne Bell from Esperance and Jane Taylor of Carnarvon accompanied Mrs Cristinelli as winners for their entries. Calendars are available for pre-order through the Rural Aid website.