Prepare to be inspired! The 2025 Mark Gunter Photo Awards have crowned their winners, and the results are nothing short of breathtaking. But here's where it gets emotional: these awards aren't just about stunning photography—they're a heartfelt tribute to Mark Gunter, a beloved Australian cycling photographer whose life was tragically cut short by oesophageal cancer. His legacy lives on through this annual competition, driven by his wife, Leeanne Gatien, whose dedication is nothing short of remarkable. Every year, we say it, and every year, we mean it: thank you, Leeanne, for keeping Mark's spirit alive.
If you’ve been following along, you’ve likely seen the weekly highlights and judges’ shortlists over the past month. Now, the moment you’ve been waiting for: the winners of the 2025 Mark Gunter Photographer of the Year Awards are here! This year marks the tenth anniversary of the competition, and it’s been more competitive than ever. With hundreds of entries across Professional, Amateur, and the returning Smartphone categories, the talent on display was truly exceptional. And this is the part most people miss: the awards also include a Fan’s Favourite category, where readers get to vote for their top pick (stay tuned for that announcement!), and three lucky Escape Collective members will also take home prizes.
Selecting the winners was no small feat. Our esteemed panel of judges—Léon van Bon (last year’s Pro category winner), Michael Blann, Twila Federica, and Chris Burkard—joined Leeanne in a rigorous judging call. They debated the merits of each shortlisted photo, weighing creativity, composition, and emotional impact. After much deliberation, they reached a consensus. To the judges: your time and expertise are deeply appreciated—this was no easy task!
But here's where it gets controversial: while the awards celebrate artistic excellence, they also serve a greater purpose. Entry fees—AU$10 per photo—are donated to cancer research through the Australian charity Tour de Cure. This dual mission of honoring Mark’s memory and supporting a critical cause is what sets these awards apart. If you’re moved by this initiative, you can also donate directly to the cause. It’s a powerful way to contribute to something bigger than photography.
Now, let’s dive into the winning photos! Each image tells a story, captures a moment, and showcases the incredible talent of this year’s entrants. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or just appreciate a good story, these shots are sure to leave you in awe.
Thought-provoking question for you: In a world where photography is increasingly digital and accessible, do competitions like this still hold the same value? Or is there something uniquely special about honoring a legacy while pushing artistic boundaries? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
