Photos shows region’s pain
A UNIVERSITY of Southern Queensland student is working with the community in one of Queensland’s hardest-hit drought regions on a project showcasing resilience in hard times.
USQ PhD candidate Anne Smith has joined photography hobbyists from the Barcaldine region highlighting the locals’ own images of the drought.
The community volunteers are participating in a USQ post-graduate project researching the potential impact of images in building resilience, wellbeing and capacity during crisis events.
The images and accompanying stories also form the foundation of the upcoming photo exhibition Our Strength During the Drought at The Globe in Barcaldine.
Ms Smith, a professional photographer, said the aim of the project was to highlight the personal impact of the drought to the individuals, their families and the broader community.
“Sharing these beautiful but often heart-breaking images can potentially connect and strengthen the community,” Ms Smith said.
The images and stories present the voices of the Barcaldine regional community and have been uploaded to the Facebook page, Our Strength During the Drought.
“People are asked to visit and comment on the images and share their own experiences,” Ms Smith said.
“Taking photos is relatively easy for most people especially considering how many mobile phones have built-in cameras. Their images can quickly and easily be uploaded and shared on social media platforms, thus connecting the community instantly to each other,” she said.
USQ research supervisor Associate Professor Janet McDonald said the aim was for the research to be used as a tool for coping mechanisms and connections during times of hardship.