Working on the land, Moulamein farmer Nick McKindlay found farming gave him a great opportunity to explore his passion for birds.

“As a farmer, I spend most of the workday outdoors, and my passion for birds has naturally woven itself into my daily activities,” said Nick.

“With a camera always at hand, I seize every opportunity to capture the birdlife that inhabits the farm, turning everyday moments into a catalogue of diverse local birdlife.

“This practice has become more than a hobby; it serves as a welcome distraction from the stresses of everyday life, bringing focus back to the moment between bird and lens.”

While Nick’s work filters out to the world through Instagram (nickonmfarm), locals now have a chance to view an exhibition at the Moulamein Art Gallery, opening August 31 as part of the ACRE Project.

“My fascination with birds drives me to explore their behaviours and nuances, and I thrive on the challenge of trying to achieve the perfect shot, each photograph telling a story.

“I find joy in sharing these stories and inviting others to appreciate the incredible birdlife that enriches our area and which continues to inspire me every day.”

The ACRE Project is an initiative of Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery, in partnership with Regional Arts Victoria, South West Arts and Swan Hill Rural City Council, and has seen local communities host art residencies, seminars and events looking at ways that art and agriculture intercept with history, community resilience and future planning.

Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery director Ian Tully encouraged people to take this opportunity to immerse themselves in Nick’s work.

“This will be a wonderful opportunity to see these stunning photographs in real time. I can’t wait to see the printed photos up large and with what I know will be a sharpness and clarity that cannot be appreciated on a screen,” said Ian.

“Nick has an eye for capturing these birds, whether in flight, at rest or play, guarding their young ones, hunting or feeding. ‘Birds Through a Farmer’s Lens’ will bring a new level of appreciation to the remarkable birdlife of our region.

“The ACRE Project is all about celebrating the arts on farms, in small towns, districts, schools and in unusual places. This is another example of the arts ultimately enriching all of our lives.”

An opening will be held on August 31 from 4.30pm to 7pm, and the exhibition will run from August 31 to September 27. Gallery hours for viewing will be 10am-4pm Thursdays and Fridays.

This article appeared in The Koondrook and Barham Bridge Newspaper, 22 August 2024.