The Ballito Photo Club etched its name into the history books with a landmark victory in the 2025 KZN Inter-club Photo Competition.

Local photographer Deborah du Plessis claimed top honours in the Nature category with her captivating image “Fixed Stare” – a night-time shot of a caracal drinking water. This marks the first time a local photographer has won a category at the prestigious provincial event, which pits clubs affiliated with the Photographic Society of South Africa against each other.

Each club submits up to 20 photos across three categories, with no more than three images per photographer per category. The results were announced at the KZN Regional Congress.

While the Ballito Photo Club only secured one category win, it was still the Simbithi-based club’s best year ever in the competition, with strong showings across the board.

June and July proved to be a whirlwind for the club’s members, who also participated in the National Salon, hosted virtually and directed by Rung Button. As Salon director, Button oversaw the judging process and ensured compliance with competition rules.

“We had in excess of 4 100 entries from all over the country – and some from abroad,” said Rung.

“Being able to host such a big competition successfully was another great win for the club.”

The club capped off the season with its annual “Oscars” Awards, celebrating the best photographs submitted over the past 12 months. In the Senior Photographer of the Year category, Manie Combrink and John Roux shared the title in a rare tie, with their standout images “Argus Reed Frog” and “Landing Gear Down” respectively.

Meanwhile, Pamela White took home the Junior Photographer of the Year award for her striking image Big Stretch, featuring an elephant mid-meal.

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