Kate Luke Photography

It's been an interesting couple of months, I've gone from someone who didn't even know who my MP was, to someone who's written to just about every member of parliament and senator they can get an address for and have met face to face with my MP. Unfortunately so far we don't seem to be getting through, so this is going to take an effort from everyone who is against cruelty, we all have to let the government know how we feel, things won't change unless we take action - it doesn't have to be much, just an email, phone call or letter shows your concern.

It's amazing how a particular issue can move you to take action. Live Exports has certainly been a turning point in my life, and I know my life won't be the same again - but in a good way - my eyes have been opened.

I headed down to the lawns of Parliament house today for the second rally against Live Animal Exports. There was a fantastic turn out from all sections of the society, and some amazing speakers including Compassion in World Farming Policy Advisor Peter Stevenson, RSPCA Australia Chief Scientist Dr Bidda Jones, and RSPCA ACT President Sue Gage. Hear the great speech by Lyn White here: http://vimeo.com/27681761

Parliament will be voting on the bills that have been tabled THIS THURSDAY (18th Aug) so it's SO important that your MP knows where you stand THIS WEEK so that they can represent your point of view. If you haven't already, or even if you have, please MAKE SURE they know where you stand on this issue, you can find out who your MP is and write to them here: http://banliveexport.com/where-does-your-MP-stand/

The animals don't get the chance to speak for themselves on this, it's up to us!

RSPCA ACT President Sue Gage

Compassion in World Farming Policy Advisor Peter Stevenson & RSPCA Australia Chief Scientist Dr Bidda Jones

Compassion in World Farming Policy Advisor Peter Stevenson

''When we think of Japan, we think of whaling, unfortunately when people think of Australia, we will think of live exports.''
Mr Stevenson, who is also chief policy adviser for Compassion in World Farming, said Europeans watched in horror as graphic footage of animal cruelty in Indonesia abattoirs surfaced.
''People in Europe couldn't understand how the government … could subject animals to such cruelty,'' he said. ''The government seems to be utterly uncaring of this country's good name.''

Compassion in World Farming Policy Advisor Peter Stevenson

RSPCA Australia Chief Scientist Dr Bidda Jones

Portrait number 7 from my personal portrait project is of Gerard. Gerard is an amazing fashion stylist whom I met when we were judging a fashion event. I’ve always had great appreciation of stylish people, the way they can so effortlessly, as if it’s second nature, create magnificently cool creations or combinations of clothes that make a statement. As one not gifted with such talents, I am always in awe seeing this kind of work in action!

In this portrait, I wanted to tell the story of Gerard in his “behind the scenes” role as stylist. Often working behind the scenes and out of the spotlight, I wanted to show the man behind the styling that most Canberrans have probably seen at some point without knowing it.

Thanks to Emma W for also appearing in this image.

Here it is! Gerard - Stylist

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Canberras Ban Live Export Rally

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Portrait 7 Gerard - Stylist