UPY 2024

UPY  Save our Seas Foundation Marine Conservation - Highly Commended
'One more chance'
Damian Almua

While we were cleaning one of the beaches on the island, my friend called "There's a turtle trapped, I think it's dead." Rushing over we cold see the turtle trapped in fishing nets unable to breathe. In the midst of so much pain, anger and frustration, we realised that the turtle was still breathing. We got scissors and began to cut her free. We talked to her and encouraged her not to give up and gently and lovingly cut each piece of fishing net entangled in her body. I managed to portray the moment of greatest tension and care, in the release of the turtle so that it has a second chance to live and return to its home. Although I can't help wondering if she will remain free or if other fishing nets are waiting to catch her again.

Judge's comment: A very eye catching image compositionally with every part of the story clearly visible. Turtle, net, many hands, scissors and a good ending; but as the back story says what else is out there for this to happen again?
Peter Rowland