Winner: Christopher Hopkins, The Age, “Riot”

Judges’ citation:

Christopher Hopkins’ winning image is a well thought out composition. It is a skilful image taken in the middle of a moment of mayhem. This beautifully balanced image conveys the chaotic situation and at the same time captures a very human moment. In the centre of the frame, is a man wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh. Hands reach for him as a police horse, its nostrils flaring, mouth open, towers overhead. The combination of the white and black scarf, the white horse, the dark police uniforms and the density of the crowd draw us in. Shot from above, the angle further emphasises the intensity of the moment.

Highly Commended:

N/A

Shortlisted:

Kate Geraghty, The Age, “October 7 anniversary”

Justin McManus, The Age, “Land Forces Protest”

Jake Nowakowski, Herald Sun and The Australian, “Land Forces”