My Journey

Beauty in the natural world can be found everywhere.
Photographing it has been my life's path challenge.

New Zealand born, from an early age I have been passionate about animals. After moving to Melbourne in the late '80's, I furthered my studies in Photography, Freelance Journalism, Wildlife Care and Management, Natural Pet Therapy, Garden Design and Perfumery. To date I have self-published a series of books on Australian Wildlife, a series of Children's Stories, Photo Essay books, Keeping Chickens and Dog Treat Recipes. I am fortunate to have set up a self-sufficient property in the beautiful upper Yarra Valley, with my beloved menagerie.

a woman holding a bird of prey in her hand
a woman holding a bird of prey in her hand
AWARDS ACHIEVED

Two times winner 'Animals in the Wild' competition

Featured on Front Cover of Photography International Magazine Vol.12 #3

Winner 'Print of the Year' award (A Grade) at Melbourne Zoo Camera Club

Awarded First Place 'Print of the Month' in Photography International Magazine

Winner of International Photographic Awards in Gates International Calendar

'Merit Award' for photographic excellence from Olympus Vision Age International Colour Slide Contest

'Donna, you have a beautiful and exceptional gallery of fine images. I especially love your flower and wildlife images, subjects I also like to photograph, and you do it so very well!'. Kurt

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"Take nothing but photographs, leave nothing but footprints"
Donna Racheal 2025