Amanda Stuart, Our Survival Day (DOCO 2023)

I came to Australia at the age of 22 and was immediately fascinated by the indigenous culture, after experiencing only the anglo Saxon one in England. Over the years I have observed the local aboriginal groups in my area gaining in strength as their numbers increased and inspirational leaders and representatives found their voice. I have felt honoured to be able to take attend and take photos at Our Survival Day for the last few years. The photos I am submitting are intended to convey the jubilation of the occasion but also the determined, passionate conviction that it is : "Our Survival Day". The powerful presence of the adult speakers - the elder making the acknowledgment and welcome, and inspirational speaker Nartarsha Bamblett, both watched by impressionable young children. The little boy demanded his mother give him the microphone, and the little girl was in awe of the ceremony. In the final photo, men, women and children of many nationalities unite in celebration.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.