The Charlton Courthouse Gallery was abuzz with visitors on Sunday, October 5, for the opening of Birds in Focus, the latest exhibition by local farmer and keen photographer, Stuart Giles.

A terrific turnout of community members and guests came to admire his remarkable bird photography.

Chairperson, Win Scott, officially opened the exhibition, noting how Stuart’s photographs capture birds so beautifully in their natural habitats, before handing over to the photographer himself.

Stuart shared insights to his process and the equipment and software he uses, explaining the importance of both patience and luck in capturing the perfect shot.

He remarked that he always carries his camera around the farm to make the most of every opportunity.

While he has long been interested in cameras, it was the ability to see the fine details of birds up close that truly drew him into bird photography.

Especially elusive

When asked if there was one bird he found especially elusive, Stuart pointed to the Red-capped Robin. Once a common sight in childhood, they are now far rarer. He recalled a moment this year when he spotted one perched on a fence – he dashed off to fetch his camera and, by good fortune, the robin was still there when he returned.

The photographs on display feature birds captured both locally and further afield, each image offering a glimpse into the delicate beauty and personality of Stuart’s feathered subjects. Visitors were in awe – not only of the quality of Stuart’s photographs, but of the birds themselves, presented in all their colour and character.

Although all present had their favourites, the little fairy wren, which also featured in the exhibition’s publicity, proved to be a clear crowd favourite.

Birds in Focus will be open again on Saturday and Sunday, October 11 and 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..

This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 7 October 2025.