‘Explore Boroondara’ is a photography exhibition featuring the winning entries in the 2024 Boroondara Photograph Competition.
Budding photographers of all ages and abilities were invited to submit past and present photographs celebrating the diversity and heritage of Boroondara’s places, spaces, natural environment, and people.
View the online gallery below.
About the exhibition
Judges considered photographs in 2 categories:
- Open Photograph Competition for people of all ages
- Young Photographers Competition for school-aged photographers.
Read about the winners and finalists on our Boroondara Photograph Competition page.
This exhibition is presented in collaboration with the Boroondara Library Service.
Image credit: submitted by Kaye Smith; photographer Leslie Blackman ‘Out for a Sunday Drive’, circa 1923, digital image, dimensions variable, image courtesy of the artist.
Open Photograph Competition, Historical – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 1800s to 2020
First Place: Stephanie Prowse, ‘Miss Oonagh Griffin’, 1978.
Artist Statement: Miss Oonagh Mary Griffin (18/4/1893-17/3/1989)
My Great Aunt, Oonagh Griffin lived with her sister Gert at 13 Currajong Rd, Camberwell for over 60 years until her death at 96 in 1989.
She was one of the early members of the MSO after the founder, Alberto Zelman Jr invited her to join the Orchestra in 1916. Following his untimely death in 1927, the MSO became a professional orchestra in 1933. In 1933, Oonagh, along with a number of musicians, decided to form the Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra in memory of their great teacher and conductor. Thus began a lifetime association for Oonagh with this amateur orchestra, where she played violin for many years and served as Honorary Secretary from September 1936 until 1981 – 50 years of continuous, dedicated service to the Orchestra. The Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra still gives a number of concerts in Melbourne and Victorian regional centres each year. I took this portrait in her home in the late 1970s whilst a photography student at the Photography Studies College in South Melbourne as part of my folio. It was shot using black and white 35 mm film in natural light. I have submitted this photograph in the Historical Open Section because I feel her life is worth celebrating. To me she represents the important role played by volunteers in our local arts community. They enrich our lives through commitment and dedication to their craft and in her case, supporting (along with many other like-minded musicians) the continued success of this great amateur Orchestra.
Judges’ comment: This exquisitely composed photograph evokes a sense of profound curiosity about its subject. The interplay of dramatic lighting accentuates her solemn expression, capturing a moment of deep introspection, perhaps before, during or after a private recital. What thoughts occupy her mind as she gazes into the distance? Truly captivating.
First Place: Stephanie Prowse, ‘Miss Oonagh Griffin’, 1978.
Artist Statement: Miss Oonagh Mary Griffin (18/4/1893-17/3/1989)
My Great Aunt, Oonagh Griffin lived with her sister Gert at 13 Currajong Rd, Camberwell for over 60 years until her death at 96 in 1989.
She was one of the early members of the MSO after the founder, Alberto Zelman Jr invited her to join the Orchestra in 1916. Following his untimely death in 1927, the MSO became a professional orchestra in 1933. In 1933, Oonagh, along with a number of musicians, decided to form the Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra in memory of their great teacher and conductor. Thus began a lifetime association for Oonagh with this amateur orchestra, where she played violin for many years and served as Honorary Secretary from September 1936 until 1981 – 50 years of continuous, dedicated service to the Orchestra. The Zelman Memorial Symphony Orchestra still gives a number of concerts in Melbourne and Victorian regional centres each year. I took this portrait in her home in the late 1970s whilst a photography student at the Photography Studies College in South Melbourne as part of my folio. It was shot using black and white 35 mm film in natural light. I have submitted this photograph in the Historical Open Section because I feel her life is worth celebrating. To me she represents the important role played by volunteers in our local arts community. They enrich our lives through commitment and dedication to their craft and in her case, supporting (along with many other like-minded musicians) the continued success of this great amateur Orchestra.
Judges’ comment: This exquisitely composed photograph evokes a sense of profound curiosity about its subject. The interplay of dramatic lighting accentuates her solemn expression, capturing a moment of deep introspection, perhaps before, during or after a private recital. What thoughts occupy her mind as she gazes into the distance? Truly captivating.
Open Photograph Competition, Historical – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 1800s to 2020
Second Place: Michael Persin, ‘Is there anybody out there?’, 2017.
Artist Statement: The photo was taken in my house, with myself as a subject. Ironically, it was just a test shot taken while setting up the lighting, but I ended up quite liking it.
Judges’ comments: This photograph exudes a profound sense of noir ambiance. It skilfully captures the essence of isolation and paranoia. The interplay of light filtering through the blinds onto the subject’s face is strikingly evocative, masterfully enhancing the mood. A commendable use of line and light amplifies the overall impact of the composition.
Second Place: Michael Persin, ‘Is there anybody out there?’, 2017.
Artist Statement: The photo was taken in my house, with myself as a subject. Ironically, it was just a test shot taken while setting up the lighting, but I ended up quite liking it.
Judges’ comments: This photograph exudes a profound sense of noir ambiance. It skilfully captures the essence of isolation and paranoia. The interplay of light filtering through the blinds onto the subject’s face is strikingly evocative, masterfully enhancing the mood. A commendable use of line and light amplifies the overall impact of the composition.
Open Photograph Competition, Historical – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 1800s to 2020
Third place: Julia Faragher, ‘There’s a whole world out there’, 2020.
Artist Statement: During the first lockdown in 2020, my dad and I would use our allowed exercise time to walk around our neighbourhood. As walks like these were often the only time we could go outside, many people started placing teddy bears and signs inside their windows to entertain and enlighten passers-by during the gloom of the pandemic. My dad and I loved walking around and trying to spot all the teddy bears in the windows. Our regular 'bear hunts' became a highlight of the first lockdown.
I took this photo on a walk around my home suburb of Camberwell. It shows 2 teddy bears pressed up against the window of a house with the reflection of the outside green trees and blue sky in the window. One teddy is white and the other is brown.
Judges’ Comments: This image beautifully reflects the essence of community solidarity. It offers a creative interpretation of the competition's theme, echoing the sentiment of discovering such moments during daily walks, a hallmark of exploring Boroondara during that period. The sight of smiling teddy bears behind the window is simultaneously uplifting and tinged with melancholy, evoking a range of emotions.
Third place: Julia Faragher, ‘There’s a whole world out there’, 2020.
Artist Statement: During the first lockdown in 2020, my dad and I would use our allowed exercise time to walk around our neighbourhood. As walks like these were often the only time we could go outside, many people started placing teddy bears and signs inside their windows to entertain and enlighten passers-by during the gloom of the pandemic. My dad and I loved walking around and trying to spot all the teddy bears in the windows. Our regular 'bear hunts' became a highlight of the first lockdown.
I took this photo on a walk around my home suburb of Camberwell. It shows 2 teddy bears pressed up against the window of a house with the reflection of the outside green trees and blue sky in the window. One teddy is white and the other is brown.
Judges’ Comments: This image beautifully reflects the essence of community solidarity. It offers a creative interpretation of the competition's theme, echoing the sentiment of discovering such moments during daily walks, a hallmark of exploring Boroondara during that period. The sight of smiling teddy bears behind the window is simultaneously uplifting and tinged with melancholy, evoking a range of emotions.
Open Photograph Competition, Historical – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 1800s to 2020
Highly Commended: Ros Osborne, ‘Demolition of the Old Canterbury Baptist Church’, c. 1960.
Artist Statement: The photo was taken in Balwyn Road, Canterbury either in 1960 or 1961 when the old Canterbury Baptist Church was being demolished and replaced. The original was a 35mm slide that has been scanned into a digital format. Raimond Daniels (my father) was the builder contracted to demolish the old church and build the new one that exists today.
Judges’ comments: This historical image encapsulates the evolving architectural landscape of Boroondara. The sight of the gutted building’s weathered facade, adorned with years of creeping vines, evokes a poignant sense of time and transformation. As one’s gaze explores the scene, subtle details emerge, such as the lone figure captured in the bottom left corner, adding depth to the narrative. The composition is undeniably captivating, offering a compelling glimpse into the past.
Highly Commended: Ros Osborne, ‘Demolition of the Old Canterbury Baptist Church’, c. 1960.
Artist Statement: The photo was taken in Balwyn Road, Canterbury either in 1960 or 1961 when the old Canterbury Baptist Church was being demolished and replaced. The original was a 35mm slide that has been scanned into a digital format. Raimond Daniels (my father) was the builder contracted to demolish the old church and build the new one that exists today.
Judges’ comments: This historical image encapsulates the evolving architectural landscape of Boroondara. The sight of the gutted building’s weathered facade, adorned with years of creeping vines, evokes a poignant sense of time and transformation. As one’s gaze explores the scene, subtle details emerge, such as the lone figure captured in the bottom left corner, adding depth to the narrative. The composition is undeniably captivating, offering a compelling glimpse into the past.
Open Photograph Competition, Boroondara today – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 2021 to 2024
First Place and Best in Competition: David Bignell, ‘Oom Pa Pa’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken on Glenferrie Rd at Glenferrie Festival depicting the Glenferrie Brass band.
Judges’ comments: This photograph is truly engaging. It transports you to the very moment, almost as if you're on the brink of being drawn into the tuba yourself. With impeccable timing, vibrant colours and a harmoniously balanced composition, it vividly encapsulates the energy and essence of the event. It stands as a testament to the pulsating vibrancy of everyday life in Boroondara.
First Place and Best in Competition: David Bignell, ‘Oom Pa Pa’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken on Glenferrie Rd at Glenferrie Festival depicting the Glenferrie Brass band.
Judges’ comments: This photograph is truly engaging. It transports you to the very moment, almost as if you're on the brink of being drawn into the tuba yourself. With impeccable timing, vibrant colours and a harmoniously balanced composition, it vividly encapsulates the energy and essence of the event. It stands as a testament to the pulsating vibrancy of everyday life in Boroondara.
Open Photograph Competition, Boroondara today - Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 2021 to 2024
Second Place: Yuxin Yang, ‘Thursday night in Hawthorn’, 2024.
Artist Statement: This was taken in Lido Cinemas while waiting for my session. A bit of buzz in the street.
Judges’ comments: Excellent framing captures the vibrant nightlife scene through the window. The voyeuristic allure draws viewers in, sparking curiosity about the individuals below. It prompts contemplation about their respective evenings and what circumstances have brought these 2 groups to McDonalds. The stark contrast between the serene interior and the lively socialising on the street is utterly captivating.
Second Place: Yuxin Yang, ‘Thursday night in Hawthorn’, 2024.
Artist Statement: This was taken in Lido Cinemas while waiting for my session. A bit of buzz in the street.
Judges’ comments: Excellent framing captures the vibrant nightlife scene through the window. The voyeuristic allure draws viewers in, sparking curiosity about the individuals below. It prompts contemplation about their respective evenings and what circumstances have brought these 2 groups to McDonalds. The stark contrast between the serene interior and the lively socialising on the street is utterly captivating.
Open Photograph Competition, Boroondara today – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 2021 to 2024
Third Place: Uyen Nguyen, ‘Cosmos sensation’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Cosmos under the clear blue sky in Balwyn North.
Judges’ Comments: This photograph exudes a captivating sense of Surrealism. From its distinctive perspective, the flowers appear colossal and majestic, creating a sense of towering glory. The contrast of the vibrant pink blooms against the vivid blue sky further enhances the otherworldly ambiance, transporting the viewer to a realm of surreal beauty.
Third Place: Uyen Nguyen, ‘Cosmos sensation’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Cosmos under the clear blue sky in Balwyn North.
Judges’ Comments: This photograph exudes a captivating sense of Surrealism. From its distinctive perspective, the flowers appear colossal and majestic, creating a sense of towering glory. The contrast of the vibrant pink blooms against the vivid blue sky further enhances the otherworldly ambiance, transporting the viewer to a realm of surreal beauty.
Open Photograph Competition, Boroondara today – Celebrate Boroondara photograph taken 2021 to 2024
Highly Commended: Andy Burkitt, ‘Cine Doggos’, 2023.
Artist Statement: Taken at the Rivoli Cinema in Camberwell. A couple of local dogs enjoying a film and some popcorn.
Judges’ comments: Magnificently staged with a delightful touch of whimsy and character. The regal elegance of the Rivoli is joyfully juxtaposed with the unexpected and utterly charming presence of its unique (and undeniably adorable) guests.
Highly Commended: Andy Burkitt, ‘Cine Doggos’, 2023.
Artist Statement: Taken at the Rivoli Cinema in Camberwell. A couple of local dogs enjoying a film and some popcorn.
Judges’ comments: Magnificently staged with a delightful touch of whimsy and character. The regal elegance of the Rivoli is joyfully juxtaposed with the unexpected and utterly charming presence of its unique (and undeniably adorable) guests.
Young Photographers Competition, Secondary Photographers
First Place: Bach Tran, ‘Reflection under the bridge(s)’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Located under Glenferrie Road and Melbourne's Monash Freeway, a tranquil body of water streams under the 2 bridges, reflecting both.
Judges’ comments: This image is not only utterly captivating but also beautifully embodies the essence of exploring Boroondara. Its composition skilfully accentuates the beautiful curves and lines of the location, further enhanced by the mesmerising reflection in the water, making it a perfect fit for the theme.
First Place: Bach Tran, ‘Reflection under the bridge(s)’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Located under Glenferrie Road and Melbourne's Monash Freeway, a tranquil body of water streams under the 2 bridges, reflecting both.
Judges’ comments: This image is not only utterly captivating but also beautifully embodies the essence of exploring Boroondara. Its composition skilfully accentuates the beautiful curves and lines of the location, further enhanced by the mesmerising reflection in the water, making it a perfect fit for the theme.
Young Photographers Competition, Secondary Photographers
Second Place: Charlie Macpherson, ‘Eyes on the Game’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken at Patterson Reserve overlooking the Hockey Field.
Judges’ comments: Showcasing highly creative perspectives and sophisticated techniques, this photograph offers a captivating exploration of its subject. The bird's-eye-view perspective masterfully captures both the scale of the environment and the fluid movement of the players. Enhanced by wonderful complementary colours and expertly manipulated light, it presents a visually stunning image.
Second Place: Charlie Macpherson, ‘Eyes on the Game’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken at Patterson Reserve overlooking the Hockey Field.
Judges’ comments: Showcasing highly creative perspectives and sophisticated techniques, this photograph offers a captivating exploration of its subject. The bird's-eye-view perspective masterfully captures both the scale of the environment and the fluid movement of the players. Enhanced by wonderful complementary colours and expertly manipulated light, it presents a visually stunning image.
Young Photographers Competition, Secondary Photographers
Third Place: Saria Ratnam, ‘Breakfast at Barton’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in Barton Milk Bar, Hawthorn, this photo captures a friend of mine reading Breakfast at Tiffany's. The image seeks to reflect the intersection of old and new that defines Hawthorn – the ageing cafe with its period fireplace, mid-century furniture and peeling wallpaper – with the modern fusion menu board in the foreground. Similarly, my friend's interest in a piece of classic literature mirrors the youth of Boroondara's interest in the preservation of the past and coexistence with the heritage of the area. On a broader level, this photo was taken on a circa-1970s SLR camera, once again reconciling the past with the present via the timeless craft of photography.
Judges’ comments: Exuding a sense of serene contemplation, this image beautifully encapsulates the tranquillity found within ordinary moments. The application of black and white photography aptly communicates the mood, enhancing the overall emotional resonance. Noteworthy for its exceptional texture, the photograph offers a creative interpretation of exploration, both in the context of a physical place and the immersive experience of delving into a good book.
Third Place: Saria Ratnam, ‘Breakfast at Barton’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in Barton Milk Bar, Hawthorn, this photo captures a friend of mine reading Breakfast at Tiffany's. The image seeks to reflect the intersection of old and new that defines Hawthorn – the ageing cafe with its period fireplace, mid-century furniture and peeling wallpaper – with the modern fusion menu board in the foreground. Similarly, my friend's interest in a piece of classic literature mirrors the youth of Boroondara's interest in the preservation of the past and coexistence with the heritage of the area. On a broader level, this photo was taken on a circa-1970s SLR camera, once again reconciling the past with the present via the timeless craft of photography.
Judges’ comments: Exuding a sense of serene contemplation, this image beautifully encapsulates the tranquillity found within ordinary moments. The application of black and white photography aptly communicates the mood, enhancing the overall emotional resonance. Noteworthy for its exceptional texture, the photograph offers a creative interpretation of exploration, both in the context of a physical place and the immersive experience of delving into a good book.
Young Photographers Competition, Secondary Photographers
Highly Commended: Leah Ried, ‘Pumpkin Preyer’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in an Ashburton backyard, this photo encapsulates the sheer biodiversity that can be experienced by simply stepping outside – here depicting a praying mantis hunting for prey on top of a pumpkin.
Judges’ comments: What a fascinating display of personality in a single creature! This photograph skilfully captures the inherent drama in the mantis's pose, with precise focus on its features, all against the striking backdrop of vibrant green contrasting the dark background.
Highly Commended: Leah Ried, ‘Pumpkin Preyer’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in an Ashburton backyard, this photo encapsulates the sheer biodiversity that can be experienced by simply stepping outside – here depicting a praying mantis hunting for prey on top of a pumpkin.
Judges’ comments: What a fascinating display of personality in a single creature! This photograph skilfully captures the inherent drama in the mantis's pose, with precise focus on its features, all against the striking backdrop of vibrant green contrasting the dark background.
Young Photographers Competition, Secondary Photographers
Highly Commended: Kate Zhang, ‘A Lazy Autumn Evening’, 2024.
Artist Statement: This photo was taken in my backyard, located at Union Road, Surrey Hills.
The photo captures my cat Milu, who was having a restful evening nap on the stairs of our deck. The autumn leaves which spread out next to her and her demeanour capture idleness. This photo summarises the feeling of a slow evening after a long day of school and work.
Judges’ comments: What a wonderful moment. The photographer took great care to capture their weary subject. It captures the mood of the cat wonderfully and relateably, with excellent lighting, autumnal colouring and composition.
Highly Commended: Kate Zhang, ‘A Lazy Autumn Evening’, 2024.
Artist Statement: This photo was taken in my backyard, located at Union Road, Surrey Hills.
The photo captures my cat Milu, who was having a restful evening nap on the stairs of our deck. The autumn leaves which spread out next to her and her demeanour capture idleness. This photo summarises the feeling of a slow evening after a long day of school and work.
Judges’ comments: What a wonderful moment. The photographer took great care to capture their weary subject. It captures the mood of the cat wonderfully and relateably, with excellent lighting, autumnal colouring and composition.
Young Photographers Competition, Junior Photographers
First Place: Mason Cumming, ‘Pollination’, 2023.
Artist Statement: Bee pollination – keeps humans alive.
Took a picture of my Mum’s friends' sunflowers in their backyard in Boroondara. I wanted to capture the bees pollinating the flowers. I am autistic and attend a special school and love photography.
Judges’ comments: This photograph showcases an exceptional level of detail and depth of field, captivating the viewer with its intricacies. The delightful interplay of brightness and saturation adds vibrancy to the imagery. The photographer's remarkable skill is evident in the sharp focus on the bee and its sunflower landing pad.
First Place: Mason Cumming, ‘Pollination’, 2023.
Artist Statement: Bee pollination – keeps humans alive.
Took a picture of my Mum’s friends' sunflowers in their backyard in Boroondara. I wanted to capture the bees pollinating the flowers. I am autistic and attend a special school and love photography.
Judges’ comments: This photograph showcases an exceptional level of detail and depth of field, captivating the viewer with its intricacies. The delightful interplay of brightness and saturation adds vibrancy to the imagery. The photographer's remarkable skill is evident in the sharp focus on the bee and its sunflower landing pad.
Young Photographers Competition, Junior Photographers
Second Place: Aryan Shali, ‘Adventures on the trail’, 2024.
Artist Statement: The Anniversary Trail holds a special place in my heart because during the COVID-19 lockdowns, my mum and I walked along this trail every day when I couldn't see my friends. Though our walks there have become less frequent, we still go when we can. This photo was taken on one such walk, near Victoria Park, where the winding trail looked amazing in the sun.
Judges’ comments: The balanced, ground-level perspective captured in this photograph thoroughly impressed the judges. Its creative vantage point invites viewers to perceive paths from a fresh angle, offering a new lens through which to explore familiar landscapes. The photographer's attention to the competition's theme is evident in both the setting and the spirit of exploration within the image, ultimately reshaping our perception of everyday surroundings.
Second Place: Aryan Shali, ‘Adventures on the trail’, 2024.
Artist Statement: The Anniversary Trail holds a special place in my heart because during the COVID-19 lockdowns, my mum and I walked along this trail every day when I couldn't see my friends. Though our walks there have become less frequent, we still go when we can. This photo was taken on one such walk, near Victoria Park, where the winding trail looked amazing in the sun.
Judges’ comments: The balanced, ground-level perspective captured in this photograph thoroughly impressed the judges. Its creative vantage point invites viewers to perceive paths from a fresh angle, offering a new lens through which to explore familiar landscapes. The photographer's attention to the competition's theme is evident in both the setting and the spirit of exploration within the image, ultimately reshaping our perception of everyday surroundings.
Young Photographers Competition, Junior Photographers
Third Place: Frederick Adamo, ‘The Graffiti Corridor’, 2023.
Artist Statement: This is a photo of the corridor that goes from the alley behind the Don Arcade and leads into the Glenferrie Centre at 674 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. The alley that leads to this corridor is near the Glenferrie Crepe Cafe in the Don Arcade.
Judges’ comments: The high contrast, saturation and colouring artfully complement the gritty atmosphere of the scene. This photograph exemplifies experimental and deliberate editing techniques, coupled with a thoughtfully chosen angle that wonderfully aligns with the setting's ambiance.
Third Place: Frederick Adamo, ‘The Graffiti Corridor’, 2023.
Artist Statement: This is a photo of the corridor that goes from the alley behind the Don Arcade and leads into the Glenferrie Centre at 674 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn. The alley that leads to this corridor is near the Glenferrie Crepe Cafe in the Don Arcade.
Judges’ comments: The high contrast, saturation and colouring artfully complement the gritty atmosphere of the scene. This photograph exemplifies experimental and deliberate editing techniques, coupled with a thoughtfully chosen angle that wonderfully aligns with the setting's ambiance.
Young Photographers Competition, Junior Photographers
Highly Commended: Tim Cai, ‘The Shot’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in the Balwyn Park basketball courts. It’s a photo of a ball going into the hoop. I had to experiment with the different angles the ball was thrown at, the shutter speed and the light sensitivity.
Judges’ Comments: Bathed in the gentle glow of a beautiful afternoon, this photograph captures a stunning moment. Its composition exudes a sense of motion, drawing the viewer into the scene. The vibrant oranges of the basketball and rooftop set against the cool, steely greys of the backboard, clouds and dusky sky, enhances the visual impact, creating a truly mesmerising image.
Highly Commended: Tim Cai, ‘The Shot’, 2024.
Artist Statement: Taken in the Balwyn Park basketball courts. It’s a photo of a ball going into the hoop. I had to experiment with the different angles the ball was thrown at, the shutter speed and the light sensitivity.
Judges’ Comments: Bathed in the gentle glow of a beautiful afternoon, this photograph captures a stunning moment. Its composition exudes a sense of motion, drawing the viewer into the scene. The vibrant oranges of the basketball and rooftop set against the cool, steely greys of the backboard, clouds and dusky sky, enhances the visual impact, creating a truly mesmerising image.