Local lens captures Geelong’s best view

AN OCEAN Grove photographer has taken top honours in the City of Greater Geelong’s 2026 calendar competition.

Fabian Reinelt’s sunrise photograph of Barwon Heads was selected as the cover image, rising above more than 830 entries submitted by community photographers from across the region.

The final calendar was determined by a public vote, with residents choosing from 28 images shortlisted by the city’s judging panel, resulting in 14 selected photographs for the monthly pages and the front and back covers.

Mr Reinelt, a self-taught photographer whose passion for the artform began during his childhood, said he was surprised and delighted to see his image selected for the cover.

“My daily commute is across the Barwon Heads Bridge to work, and I came for a sunrise walk in the morning and just happened to be at the right spot at the right time,” he said.

“The sunrise looked beautiful, and it just kept getting better and better. When I was just about to pack up, a guy came up and asked me if I got some good shots. I showed him my camera and he said, ‘Oh, this is an award-winning picture’.

“I didn’t really believe that, and I played it down and told him, ‘Yeah, it’s quite nice of this beautiful sunrise’. Fast forward six months later and I’m on the front page of the calendar.”

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the 2026 calendar reflected the identity and character of the region.

“There are many of Greater Geelong’s much-loved places featured [in] the calendar, which showcase the unique beauty and history of our region,” he said.

“The talent and creativity of our local photographers is very impressive, and the number of entries this year shows the passion of our community.

“Well done to all the selected photographers whose photos we will admire on our walls next year – something to be very proud of.”

Calendars can be collected from the city’s customer service centres, local swim sport and leisure centres, and libraries.