Winning snap, snapper announced

Brad Donaldson is the winner of our 2013 Great Southern Snapshots competition, which has been running for the past three months in conjunction with Albany Retravision.

Mr Donaldson wins the top prize, a Fujifilm X-E1 digital camera valued at $1399 courtesy of Retravision, for his self-portrait on top of Bluff Knoll.

Judges were unanimous the picture was the best depiction of the Great Southern from the many outstanding finalists.

The picture showed the Stirling Range National Park, synonymous with the Great Southern region and a popular tourist destination, on a picture-perfect clear day.

Lex Porebski was a close runner-up for his shot of a sunrise over Mt Clarence and the iconic Brig Amity replica, while another Stirling Range shot with rolled hay bales in the foreground was third for Tambellup’s Debbie Cristinelli.

Mr Donaldson was surprised to win.

“I’ve entered many competitions over the years, but this is the first time I’ve won anything,” he said.

Mr Donaldson said his winning entry was snapped after an exhilarating climb to the top of Bluff Knoll on a Sunday in May.

“I’ve lived in Albany for over 30 years and this was my first time climbing Bluff Knoll, something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said.

“I couldn’t have chosen a better day because the weather was perfect and the views absolutely breathtaking.”

Albany Advertiser editor Nathan Watson thanked all who entered photos in this year’s competition.

“The Great Southern region is an amazing playground for photographers and there were so many stunning pictures entered,” he said.

“Thanks to everyone who took part and there will be another chance to win next year.”