I was once pulled aside at an industry event, and ever so gently reminded that the way the world should work is that those who benefit should also contribute back. It’s a concept I strongly believe in.
I guess at that stage I was honoured that someone felt that I had something to contribute. Awards were awesome, however, it never really changed the way that I viewed myself. I was always just in competition myself, and keeping myself accountable to my own goals.
So on this night, on the Marriot Brisbane rooftop in 1997, I bravely said… “Sure, I’d love to” Maybe I could just be an extra set of hands where required.
That night started a twenty-year journey on various councils, committees, national boards and various organisations and causes for Australian Photography. I’m proud of that history, I like to think that my efforts have somehow contributed to where we are now, in fact I know they have. So, after being the Queensland Chairman of Jurors for the AIPP Qld Professional Photography Awards since about 2011, I decided it was time to step down. I’m proud of my contributions, but the organization is changing, and it was time for a change.
It’s a lot of work, a lot of stress, and honestly comes at a huge financial and personal cost… it's not surprising that a lot of people have asked why I have done these roles for such a lengthy period. I guess the clearest response is… because of the people... and I would rather have done it, than not. It's not for acclaim, it's purely to contribute what I can, and to make the world somehow a slightly better place for someone. Its what we all do in our own way.
Melissa
