In 2011, I took a sunrise hot air balloon ride over Canberra that I’ll never forget. What started as a gift turned into the moment I captured my most loved photograph—an image that still draws crowds at markets and holds a rare, magical view of the city from above.

A quiet walk through Wright Park with my Labrador turned into an unforgettable encounter with one of Queanbeyan’s most iconic—and endangered—birds. Armed with my new Sigma 150-600mm lens and a bit of luck, I captured a rare moment with a pair of Gang Gang Cockatoos nestled high in the gum trees. This photo isn’t just a shot—it’s a story of timing, patience, and the beauty of local wildlife.