Community Recognition Statement

I’m so excited to share some incredible news I received late last year and haven’t told anyone about it until now.

As you know, Neal and I were climbing up a mountain of grief during the first half of this year when we lost our beautiful senior furkids, Harvey and Luna. Just before this time and at the crazy tail end of 2023, a Community Recognition Statement and Honourable Mention to NSW Parliament was made unbeknownst to me.

New South Wales Legislative Assembly

I received a letter from Tanya Thompson MP, our local member for Myall Lakes, telling me she had the opportunity to speak in the New South Wales Legislative Assembly about my success in the 2023 International Pet Photographer of the Year awards and my fundraising project for Aussie Ark.

Being recognised in Parliament for my awards was a significant moment for me. It celebrated my work and highlighted the importance of dog photography and its impact on our community.

This recognition from such a prestigious platform reaffirms my dedication to capturing the beauty and essence of dogs and all animals, and I am grateful for this acknowledgement.

I am pleased to display a copy of the extract from the NSW Legislative Assembly Hansard and Papers below.

I responded, thanking Tanya and asking who had told her about the work I’d been doing. However, I have yet to receive a response. So, whoever it was, thank you!

INTERNATIONAL PET PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

In 2023, of 2,299 entries submitted by photographers from 32 countries, I received a silver and four bronze awards. It’s been a fantastic journey, especially with 16 esteemed judges – all renowned animal photographers worldwide, including some of my mentors!

TAILS OF BARRINGTON COAST BOOK PROJECT FUNDRAISER BENEFITTING AUSSIE ARK

What makes this even more special is that all my bronze award-winning photographs of local dogs are from my ‘Tails of Barrington Coast’ book. This was a fundraising project celebrating dogs of all kinds, their stories and the places they love to spend time within the collector’s edition coffee table book. Through this project, I’m so proud that I’ve donated $2,677 to Aussie Ark, an organisation dedicated to preserving Australia’s endangered wildlife. Every participant in that project helped me achieve this goal, and I couldn’t be happier about that.

I want to thank all of you who bought the book, for your support and encouragement. It means the world to me to share these stories and moments with you. Capturing the beauty and essence of our local dogs at iconic locations in our region for a noble cause like Aussie Ark has been a true honour.

THE SILVER AWARD

I achieved this award with this beautiful image of Claire Mathews and her heart dog, an American Golden Retriever named Oakley. It was taken at sunset in the dunes at the northern end of One Mile Beach in Forster.

Claire Mathews recently shared her thoughts about Jo Lyons Photography in a Google review, and her words truly warmed my heart:

“I was over the moon with how it turned out! Jo creates an amazing experience throughout the entire process. She knows her stuff. She took the time to meet Oakley and learn about him, his personality, and the things he enjoys doing, and she perfectly captured them in all her images. The artwork Jo creates is absolutely breathtaking. 5 Stars isn’t enough!!!”

Claire’s testimonial captures the essence of what makes my approach so unique. When Claire introduced me to Oakley, it was clear I had the opportunity to create something extraordinary. Understanding Oakley’s personality, his favourite activities, and the little quirks that make him who he is allowed me to capture his beyond-handsome physical features and his spirit in every frame.

For me, dog photography is a deeply personal experience. It’s about more than just snapping pictures – it’s about forming connections, discovering each dog’s unique story, and translating that into stunning artwork families cherish forever.

While awards and recognition are lovely, my real reward lies in the joy and satisfaction of our clients like Claire. Each dog I photograph becomes part of my extended family, and I’m committed to delivering beautiful artwork and unforgettable experiences.

My recent success in the International Pet Photographer of the Year Awards is a testament to my dedication, but your trust and appreciation drive me forward daily. I’m here to capture your dog’s personality in ways that will leave you speechless.

If you are interested in chatting with me about photographing your dog and you can be included in the photos, please get in touch so we can schedule an appointment via Zoom or phone. If you are fortunate enough to live in our beautiful region, you can come to our studio in Wootton for an obligation-free studio tour and consultation with your dog.