Australia Cries » Beautiful Moments Photography

Australia Cries

Sunday, February 8, 2009 at 10:28pm

Today brings such sadness for thousands of Australians. We have just experienced the worst fires in Australian history with over 750 homes lost and sadly, over 130 lives taken. Over the coming days these numbers are sure to rise, just the thought of this brings me to tears. Unbelievably it now appears that the majority of these fires have been deliberately lit, which makes me sick to my stomach.

Watching the news today just about every person I saw being interviewed was upset that they lost their precious family photographs. Family photos are always the first things that people think of taking from their homes, because every other material possession can be replaced except these pieces of paper imprinted with the tales of family history.

As I watch the news today I feel helpless, but I so desperately want to help in some way. So, I thought that perhaps I can help with the gift of photography to a few special families who have lost the lot, including their family photos. I will be in the Riverina area of NSW in early April for a Wedding and I have decided that I am going to set aside some time to travel across the border to Victoria and spend some time with a few families and couples who now have no memories to hand down to their children and create some new memories for them to treasure. I will donate my time and will also supply these people with lots of photos. I know it won’t bring back the past but hopefully it will help their future

If you know someone who has been effected by these fires and would appreciate the gift of photography please get in touch with me by sending me an email to info@beautifulmoments.com.au

Please respect this generous offer by only contacting me with genuine cases of hardship.

Cathy xxx

family photographer melbourne picture

I thought this family photo with the Aussie Flag was fitting for this post

*****If any other Photographers are willing to help out with this project please contact me directly******

UPDATE 10/02/09: I’m pleased to say that I have had a number of calls and emails from other photographer friends who are willing to donate their time and

talent so it looks like we will also be doing a group event in a few months time. Thank you everyone for getting on board with this. It’s been overwhelming.

Also, taking inspiration from my post Kris Leigh has been inspired to donate money to the Salvos from her sessions and has in turn inspired others to do the same. How fantastic is that! I am so proud

by Cathy

25 comments

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renee bell - what a generous offer Cathy.... The tragedy of the last few days is horrid and I sincerely hope that it is over and no more lives are lost...

Lauri - Oh wow, how devastating for those poor families. Such a horrible tragedy. :-( This is such a kind thing that you're doing Cathy. You are so generous to offer this and I hope many families get to benefit from your beautiful gift!

natt - it is such a tragedy and it makes me angry too...thinking about all those lives that have been stolen... your offer is very kind and generous cathy

Jen Olsen - I am saddened reading this post, yet feel inspired by your generous and heartfelt response to the horrible tragedy. You have a huge heart Cathy, and I am definite God is smiling upon you right now. God bless!

Mark Hayes - My heart goes out to those who have lost so much during this tragedy. Your generous offer brings tears of pride to my eyes, the offer to begin building keepsakes again is such a great gift from a photographer.

Jen Olsen - oh! btw, I love the colors in this photo and how cool is that little shack!

Brandi - Wow that is terrible! It makes me think of how people lost so many precious memories when Katrina came around Nola and related areas as well. That is a wonderful offer to try and create new memories for people who have been affected!

kellie - Cathy, i echo your post! I don't know how but i hope they find the people who started them. I can't watch any more news bulletins, it's too sad... the number keeps rising, 108 now, and still 10 fires burning out of control. I pray for the families, those injured, and those affected by this terrible situation. Thanks for offering your services for these families! you're a Gem!

Kris Leigh - My heart and thoughts are with the families as well Cathy! It's absolutely devastating and my heart just aches for the lives and properties that have been lost. This is such a beautiful offer and a wonderful image! :-)

kirk - Cathy that is such a lovely idea, I cant imagine how awlful it would be to loose everything. You have a very kind heart cathy and I am sure you will bring some happiness back into these families lives.

Val McCormick - Wow Cathy, what a touching post. You have such a beautiful heart. I am saddened by the bad news in your post. How awful. A fire is my worst nightmare; I can't imagine what those families are going through. Much love and hugs to Australia. ~Val :-)

Paula Herko - Cathy, that is a fantastic and thoughtful idea! When i heard about the fires, i just couldn't believe my eyes... such devastation! my thoughts and prayers are with your beautiful country- Blessings!

Melissa Koehler - This makes me SOO sad too!! Maybe when I come out to visit we could team up and offer something? You are doing a wonderful thing! xo

ricki ford - AMAZING! You have a beautiful heart!

ohana photographers - david & kimi - we are so sad to hear this. our prayers are with all those families that have experienced loss :( we're so happy to hear you are ok. this is such an awesome and kind thing you are doing. what a blessing you are. hopefully it will bring some happiness to these families.

george roth - what a great gesture Cath - it is so typical of how all Australians go out of their way to help not only their mates but even complete strangers in troubled times. I hope you will get some other photographers to join you.

Elkie - Good on your Cathy, what a great gesture ... and yes I always cannot emphasis enough how important family photos is! I would love to help if I will be in Victoria! :-)

Sofie - I'm so sorry to hear about the fires in Australia and for the loss that so many people have experienced but it's heartwarming to read about your positive and thoughtful gesture and I'm sure it will be appreciated by the families you photograph.

ruby - cathy, so sorry to hear about the fires in australia. i think what you and other photographers are doing to help the families shows you have a big heart. i look so forward to meeting you next week. ruby

Adrienne Gunde - What an amazing thing that you're doing! What I've been hearing of fires has been so devastating but it's so wonderful to hear of how you'll be helping out with your talents.

Erika McCauley - That is so generous and kind Cathy! What an amazing gift you are giving to people who are going to appreciate it SO much!

Lauren - Good work! I think its great that all us photographers are donating our time to this cause. Makes me feel all warm & fuzzy!! :)

Rebecca - Hey Cathy, you might like to get in touch with the AIPP National Office. They are organising something similar on a national scale and asking for photographers to volunteer.

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