Photojournalism nominee

Australia was once said to ride on the sheep's back. The nation relied on sheep for its buoyant wool and meat industries. Australia has the largest population of sheep in the world but professional sheep shearing as occupation is slowly dying out as farming families seek work in the cities and some flocks are now being replaced by fast growing self shedding breeds. Despite, this the sport of shearing at agricultural shows continues to be a popular attraction.

Tailai Obrien is an animal trainer with more than 20 years experience. Her eclectic collection of heritage livestock breeds and domestic pets feature regularly in her imaginative style of photography.
Tailai was recently recognised in several categories at the Tokyo International Foto Awards, The Australian Mono Awards and Australian Photographer of the year as well as winning the Federation Photo Award in the animals category in 2020.