Paula Walland, Goannas of Fire-scarred Country (ANIMAL & NATURE 2025)

This series of four images captures the presence and resilience of goannas living in Gippsland’s bushland after fire. From the close detail of a watchful eye to the power of claws and the flick of a tongue, each photo reveals a different perspective of these reptiles in motion. Framed against both fresh and burnt bark, the images highlight the contrast of renewal and survival, telling a story of wildlife enduring within a scarred yet recovering landscape.

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