It is no secret that my heart lies within the Australian Outback. Particularly as a wedding photographer, sharing the love of newly weds in such a magnificent and varied landscape. If you have ever lived in a rural community you will appreciate the struggles, the joy and the uncertainty of making a living off this great land of ours. I was so blessed to travel nine hours to Western Queensland a couple of weeks ago and capture a magnificent wedding in Blackall. But this was far more than just a wedding. This was a community event that touched many and the excitement rippled far and wide.
In the same week of this day, Ingrid’s (the Bride) Family, destocked (sold all of their cattle) their property. A hard and heart wrenching decision to make based on the brutal realities of financial hardship with feeding their stock and the uncertainty of when a change in season was to come. Such a huge down, in a week of huge highs. Even with my connections to the land, I was deeply touched by the landscape and stories of Western Queensland. Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last three years, you will also have heard of the realities and the lack of rain. I am only an individual and I only, can’t do much. But I can do a little. I have personally pledged $14 922 (based on a commitment to donate $3 per share – that’s 4974 if you were wondering) I received from a 24 hour Social Media campaign to an outstanding and deserving committee called Tie Up The Black Dog and now it’s time for you to dig deep too.
This team of three extraordinary rural women started this committee to raise awareness about Depression and Mental Illness in 2007 as a response to prolonged and devastating drought. They have no overheads, no staff and no one takes home a salary. Every forum and event is organised on donated time by these magnificent ladies. A truly selfless group who give so much.
You can take a look at their great work here: https://tieuptheblackdog.wordpress.com/
If you too are inspired by this story, I challenge you to donate your own $3. Every cent helps.
To view the full love story please visit the blog here: http://edwinarobertson.com/ross-and-ingrid-married-blackall-qld/ or if you prefer facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edwinarobertsonphotography