24 November 2023
Wildlife Queensland is delighted to announce Wayne Reinke as the winner of the 2023 Wayne Lawler Nature Conservation Photography Grant. Mr Reinke’s passion for nature conservation and photography earned him this inaugural grant to help support his photographic journey.
The grant, named in honour of Wayne Lawler’s contributions to nature photography, aims to empower Australian amateur photographers to support community-led conservation projects that help make a difference. Wildlife Queensland is honoured to manage this grant program, funded by a trust established by Wayne Lawler.
Glenwood Wildlife Awareness Group partnership raises awareness of local wildlife
For his conservation project, Mr Reinke chose to work with the Glenwood Wildlife Awareness Group (GWA), an organisation whose primary objective is to raise awareness about the wildlife in the Glenwood region, South East Queensland. GWA aims to promote the conservation, protection, or regeneration of vital habitats by fostering understanding among residents, developers, and authorities.
GWA is aware of current developments in the Glenwood area, which pose significant threats to the local wildlife by clearing vast areas of forest and habitat. Developments include the Four Lane Gympie Bypass, Lake Borumba Pumped Hydro Project, Forest Wind Project, and Bruce Highway upgrade.
Mr Reinke’s contribution to the project will involve capturing compelling photographs that not only document local wildlife but also raise awareness about threatened species. His work has already led to significant milestones, including the identification and protection of critical habitats for the regent honeyeater and glossy black-cockatoo.
Wayner Lawler’s inspirational legacy
Mr Reinke expressed his deepest gratitude for the grant and looks forward to contributing to the ongoing efforts protecting the diverse wildlife and ecosystems in the Glenwood region.
“Since learning more about Wayne Lawler and his legacy, the grant has inspired me, giving me confidence that I can do so much more for conservation and advocate for wildlife than I previously thought possible,” said Reinke.
“The grant will enable me to share my passion for photographing birds and wildlife and to reach out through more channels to educate people about our local wildlife.”
Mr Reinke also pointed out a couple of coincidences too. Not only does he share his first name with Wayne Lawler, but he also lives just a kilometre from Lawler’s property.
His dedication to nature extends beyond the grant project, as he plans to donate his extensive collection of wildlife photographs to GWA to create a calendar and a book. Mr Reinke hopes to inspire the residents of Glenwood to appreciate and actively participate in conserving their local biodiversity.
“Thank you to everyone who submitted applications for the 2023 grant; the standard was excellent,” said Des Boyland, Wildlife Queensland Policies & Campaigns Manager.
Wildlife Queensland congratulates Wayne Reinke on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to the continued success of the Wayne Lawler Nature Conservation Photography Grant.
*Images L-R: critically endangered regent honeyeater (Anthochaera Phrygia), vulnerable glossy black-cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus lathami), white-bellied sea eagle (Haliaeetus leucogaster), scarlet honeyeater (Myzomela sanguinolenta).
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