A Tribute to Nugget – Honouring a Legend Through the Senior Horse Project

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Dec 3, 2025 | Behind the Lens, Equine Photography, Senior Horse Project

A Tribute to Nugget – Honouring a Legend Through the Senior Horse Project

There are moments in my career that stay with me forever — moments where the connection between human and horse runs so deep it feels almost sacred. Visiting Guy and Emily McLean at Nugget Rest in Queensland was one of those moments. From the moment I arrived, Guy and Emily opened their home and hearts to me. Their warmth, humility, and the deep respect they have for their horses reminded me exactly why I began the Senior Horse Project— to honour the horses who have given their all, shaping not just careers but lives.

As a fellow horse person — a breeder, trainer, and lifelong admirer of these incredible animals — I felt an instant kinship with Guy. His love of the Australian Stock Horse and my own years growing up with them in the Victorian High Country felt like a shared language. Later in life, my path led me to the beautiful Gypsy Cob, yet at the heart of both breeds lies the same truth: loyalty, intelligence, and a willingness to connect with people. This is the celebration of Nugget – A once-in-a-lifetime Horse through my lens.

Quietway Nugget was born in Queensland in 1994 — a striking blend of Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred bloodlines. From the very beginning, Guy saw something extraordinary in him. Through patience, partnership, and an unspoken trust, Guy trained Nugget into the horse that would carry him into arenas across Australia and an audience from around the world.

Together they performed bridleless and saddleless, telling stories of Australian horsemanship through poetry, whip-cracking, and pure harmony between man and horse. Nugget embodied the spirit of the Australian Stock Horse — brave, intelligent, and deeply loyal. He helped show the world what can be achieved when horses are trained with patience, love, and respect.

Now retired at Nuggets Rest, the property that bears his name, Nugget spends his days surrounded by the love of the people who owe him so much. There may be grey hairs now, but the light in his eyes remains the same — wise, knowing, and full of devotion to his lifelong partner. If you have a senior horse whose story deserves to be told, learn more about the Senior Horse Project.

As I photographed him for the Senior Horse Project, I could feel that bond between them — unbreakable, timeless, and built on years of shared trust. These portraits are more than photographs; they are living tributes to a partnership that shaped both their lives.

Pictured above Guy riding Nugget in his more youthful years. ©Guy McLean

“Some horses perform for the crowd. Others perform for the heart. Nugget did both”

Honouring the Senior Mares of Nuggets Rest

Alongside Nugget, I had the honour of photographing the senior mares who share his home — the matriarchs who have carried foals, taught lessons, and helped build the foundation of Guy and Emily’s breeding program. Each mare radiated grace, wisdom, and quiet strength — the kind of beauty that only comes with age and experience. These mares, much like Nugget, remind us that every stage of a horse’s life has purpose and meaning. Their gentle eyes and steady hearts tell stories of loyalty, resilience, and love.

Vale Bridie

When I photographed the beautiful horses of Nuggets rest, I didn’t know that I would be writing a paragraph in honour of the beautiful buckskin Mare – Bridie. A life lived to the fullest, yet cut short too soon. Her legend now lives on in her babies and the memories that Guy & Emily will hold dear. I am thankful that Emily decided to include the Mares in the Senior Horse Project so that they now have these beautiful photographs to treasure forever – my wish is they help bring healing to your hearts as you remember your beautiful girl – big hugs Guy & Emily.

“The older they become, the more precious every moment is. A portrait turns those moments into something we can hold forever.”

A Shared Love of the Horse

Working in the equestrian world has given me a life surrounded by horses — not only through photography but through years of breeding and training. Horses have taught me patience, humility, and joy. Being with Guy and Emily reminded me of why we do what we do — for the love of the horse, for the stories they hold, and for the lessons they continue to teach us. Spending time with them reaffirmed what connects all horse lovers: a shared understanding that our horses are not just animals, but partners who shape who we become.

Guy McLean & Rachel Flynn Geelong Royal Show IMG_4569

Words from Guy McLean

Every now and then an email
From an artist comes on by
With a request to capture our horses
From behind the artists eye

Now, even though we dance in the spotlight
We’re true introverts at heart
And we like to keep ourselves to us
When we’re not out playing our part

But one request had triggered our interest
To honour the king of our home
Our dear old Stallion Nugget
Who reigned every place that he roamed

He has captured the hearts of millions
From arena to stage and online
And now in his golden years
He still continues to shine

Rachel Flynn Photography
Had offered us a special chance
To capture our boy here at home
As he is, catch a glimmer, a glance…..

…Of his truest self as he reigns on his throne
As King of our block ‘Nuggets Rest’
Now, I mainly allowed this for my wife
Cause from her presence, I’ve truly been blessed

And so has our dear old Nugget
For she dotes on him every day
And mixes him up his porridge
(Without teeth, it’s kind of hard to eat hay)

So I said “Yes dear, please welcome her in”

“I’ll just stay in the back ground and ride”
“But please don’t annoy him too much”
“Don’t fuss him and don’t overstride”

Well, Rachel was a blessing, an artist
To be sure, thats what she is
But she honoured our home and our wishes
As she got down to what is her biz

She captured our boy in his pasture
He was as relaxed and as calm as could be
As he postured and preened for his photos
As he let his true presence run free

Months later we witnessed her gifts
Right before I was ready to show
And her portraits brought a lump in my throat
And the tears they began to flow

She captured the essence of Nugget
His heart, and his wisdom from age
And now to his wonderful story
She has added another fine page

Professional, thoughtful and gifted
We’re so glad we accepted this chance
The ‘Senior Horse Project’ we thank you
For letting us share in this dance.

Guy McLean.

A Call to Celebrate the Seniors

This is my tribute to Nugget, and to the senior mares of Nugget Rest.

Horses like Nugget remind us that greatness isn’t just in the arena — it’s in the quiet moments, the lessons learned, and the bonds that stand the test of time.

If you have an older horse who has shaped your life, I would love to help you honour them through the Senior Horse Project.
Together, we can preserve their story and celebrate the bond that time can never diminish.

📸 Learn more or nominate your horse at The Senior Horse Project

✨ Honouring Life, Love & Legacy ✨

To view Rachel’s full equine portfolio or learn more about booking a session in West Gippsland, Victoria or Australia-wide, visit the Experience page or get in touch.

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PHOTOSHOOT EXPERIENCE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | GUY McLEAN HORSEMANSHIP

The Senior Dog Project

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Jun 8, 2025 | Equine Photography

The Senior Dog Project

The Senior Dog Project:
Honouring the Companions Who’ve Shared Our Journey

If you’ve been following my work for a while, you’ll already know how close the Senior Horse Project is to my heart. It began as a tribute to the noble senior horses who’ve carried us through years of memories — the quiet legends who’ve given us their trust, their strength, and their spirit. Through this project, I’ve had the honour of capturing their essence in timeless artwork, gifting their owners a tangible piece of the love they’ve shared.

Over time, another beautiful thread began to weave its way through my sessions.

The Senior Horse Project Rachel Flynn Equine Photography

A tribute to our beloved Senior Dogs

It started quietly, almost by accident — during equine shoots, I’d often notice a dog or two tagging along at the stables. Sometimes curled under a feed bin, other times trotting faithfully behind their person. As a lifelong dog lover, I simply couldn’t resist. One moment we’d be adjusting the bridle for a portrait, the next I’d be gently calling the dog over for a quick photo — a surprise addition that clients always adored.

In 2021, I officially opened up bookings for Pawtraits, and in the years to come I built a studio at home, nestled in the rolling green hills where my studio and outdoor backdrops create a truly special on-farm experience. It was a natural extension of the work I already loved, and these sessions brought me just as much joy and purpose as the equine ones.

Our Senior Dog Project has reached as far as Far North Queensland in Australia, USA, UK & N.Z

As more and more clients brought their dogs for portraits, I noticed a pattern — many of them were in their twilight years. Their faces were greying, their walks slower, but their eyes… still full of life, loyalty, and love. It became clear that people, like me, were realising the fleeting nature of time with our dogs. They wanted to honour them, to capture who they are now, before time took more from them.

And so, the Senior Dog Project was born — a sister to the Senior Horse Project, equally rooted in love, legacy, and gratitude.

As someone who shares life with senior animals, this project is deeply personal to me. There is something sacred in honouring the long companionship of a dog who has grown alongside you. To photograph a senior dog is to pause time — to preserve the softness in their eyes, the wisdom in their expression, and the irreplaceable bond they share with their person.

In today’s blog, I’m honoured to feature a few of the beautiful senior dogs I’ve had the privilege to photograph so far. Each one carries their own story, their own quirks, their own quiet magic. And each has left paw prints not just in the hearts of their humans, but on mine as well.

To all the dogs who’ve grown older by our side — thank you. This project is for you.

📣 Calling all Senior Dogs!

If you have a beloved senior dog and would love to create beautiful, lasting portraits, I would be honoured to photograph them as part of The Senior Dog Project.

Sessions are available:
🐾 At my peaceful on-farm studio in Neerim South, with both indoor and outdoor backdrops
🐾 Or at dog-friendly parks in regional towns across Australia when I’m travelling
🐾 Available mid-week and most weekends in Gippsland, Victoria

Whether your dog is slowing down or still full of beans, these sessions are gentle, relaxed, and tailored to your pet’s comfort.

📸 Let’s capture the legacy of your best friend — get in touch to book a spot or join the waitlist for my next visit to your town.

Because every senior dog deserves to be celebrated. 🐶💛

Get in touch here: EMAIL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Capturing a Legacy — The Senior Horses of Victoria Police Mounted Branch

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Jun 23, 2023 | Behind the Lens, Equine Photography, Events & Features, Senior Horse Project

Capturing a Legacy — The Senior Horses of Victoria Police Mounted Branch

THE SENIOR HORSE PROJECT

The Senior Horse Project was first showcased as a Pop-Up Photography Gallery display at Equitana 2022 in Melbourne, where many senior horses I have had the privilege of photographing to-date were showcased.

The display garnered great interest amongst horse people who related with having a much-loved horse now entering the later stages of their lives and who had yet to have invaluable photos documenting their legacy — photographed by Rachel Flynn, fine art equine photographer based in West Gippsland, Victoria.

During the Equitana event we had the chance to meet Senior Constable Renee Gietman, who was there showcasing the Mounted Branch and explaining the role for those who may be interested in joining, or for people who may have a horse suitable for the required work.

I began the Senior Horse Project some two years ago as an endeavor to give something back to the many senior horses in our lives. It is a photographic documentation of these wise old souls in all of their majestic glory and capturing their unique personality and beauty in a photograph for their loved ones to treasure forever.

Early one Autumn sunrise, I was spending time with one of my Senior horses. I reflected on our time together throughout the years and had an immense feeling of how grateful I was for the journey we shared – there was love and respect and I recognised the significant role Horses played in shaping my life. I felt a strong calling to celebrate their legacy.

The Mounted Branch has been operating since 1838 and is the longest serving unit in Victoria Police. This included a breeding program to purpose breed their very own horses for the job. A lengthy dedication goes into planning a breeding program of this nature. Foaling down, growing young-stock and then the slow and steady training and assessment program that will inevitably set them up for success as a valuable member of the branch.

This program now operates differently, with the Branch either buying horses from the open market, or accepting horses through donations. They are trialed and assessed over a 90-day period before it’s decided whether or not they will join the branch. Though still an integral part of the team the Mounted Branch has slowly gotten smaller as other modes of transport have become more frequently utilised. As it sits now, they currently have 28 members to cover the whole of the state of Victoria, with trainers having an older horse and a younger upcoming horse in work.

Pictured above: Unity

At Equitana, Renee resonated with our Senior horse project, and told us of the senior horses of the Mounted Branch who were vast approaching their retirement. Three warmblood mares Xacara (19), Willow (20) and Unity (22) who are the main features of this blog. They do still have one last gelding working, who is homebred and is Xacara’s half brother; but they are the last of the purpose bred horses for the Victoria Police-Mounted Branch.

Pictured above: Xacara

Pictured above: Willow

Acting Sergeant-Samantha Christian, told us of the amazing contribution these, and all of their horses provided and how much they meant to their team. Xacara, Willow and Unity were all allocated as Sergeants horses meaning they lead the troop in large scale jobs thanks to their reliability and obvious bravery. According to Samantha they were incredibly versatile partners. Their gamut ranging from training new horses to working high-level protests to ceremonial jobs.

These incredible mounted police horses are the perfect example of the importance these animals can play in our lives and the beauty in getting to document them. When asked why she chose to participate in the Senior Horse Project Samantha said:

“I really like the idea of the senior horse project as it gives a memory of the horses at their retirement from their job (in our horses case) or their ridden life, and we are able to remember them for all they were while they were working.”

Pictured above & below: Xacara & Acting Sergeant Sam Christian

Showcase the Victorian Police Mounted Branch

Having the opportunity to document the final homebred legacy of the senior horses at the Mounted Branch in Attwood, Melbourne, Victoria (where the stables were purpose built in 2016), was a great honour and privilege and is undoubtedly a career highlight thus far.

A heartfelt thank you to the following people for your assistance in The Senior Horse Project and for their service at the Mounted Branch ~ Senior Constable Renee Gietman | Senior Sergeant Jayne Hanson | Acting Sergeant Sam Christian, and helpers within the Victoria Police for our photoshoot.

You can read more about the Senior Horse Project HERE

Do you have a special Senior horse in your life? Contact Rachel HERE today to discuss a unique photoshoot experience of your own.

Interested in booking your own fine art equine photography session? Learn more about the experience or browse Rachel’s equine portfolio.

Stay in touch with Rachel Flynn Photography: EMAIL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Capturing a Legacy — Introducing the Senior Horse Project

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Dec 22, 2022 | Behind the Lens, Equine Photography, Senior Horse Project

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Senior Horse Project Manolo Mendez Dressage Diniamico XII PRE Stallion

Capturing a Legacy — Introducing the Senior Horse Project

THE SENIOR HORSE PROJECT

I was first introduced to horses at a very young age. In truth, I don’t really remember my life before them; without them. They have always been there, an integral part of our farming life for mustering or weekend competition; but perhaps even more importantly as forever friends, trusted confidants and incomparable companions. I am Rachel Flynn, fine art equine and pet photographer based in Neerim South, West Gippsland, Victoria.

Having spent nearly my entire life around horses, I have been given the opportunity to witness first hand the different stages of their lives, and I have come to greatly appreciate and moreover love the Senior Horse.

The beauty of the senior horse is often overlooked in a world that tends to focus on youth and vitality. But in the eyes of an experienced person, horses age like fine wine and often with age comes a calmness and serenity that is hard to find in more youthful horses. Senior horses seem to demonstrate a demeanor of calm, exuding an acceptance of their surroundings and those who surround them.

But the real beauty of the senior horse is the shared journey you have taken. The road you have quite literally traveled together.

These stoic and learned animals may no longer buck as wildly as their more youthful counterparts, but they more than make up for it with their wisdom, grace and solidarity.

Senior Horse Project wisdom of a horse eye

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography The Senior Horse Project

I have had many amazing horses throughout my life, from the youthful to the wise and all that is in between. They have each held such a special place in my heart. It was our very own senior pony Max, that led me to finally making the announcement (which had been on my to-do list for some time) that we needed to document these very special horses in a way that captured who they are – their Legacy. Then one crisp May morning in 2020, I decided to do a spontaneous Live on social media, showcasing to my viewers just how beautiful the light was dancing through the valley and trees of our property; and I knew then there was no better moment to announce my most important project to date; The Senior Horse Project-Capturing a Legacy.

I am passionate about capturing the unique essence of each horse I photograph as I endeavor to bring them to life in the form of Art that can be treasured forever. Given my supreme appreciation for the Senior Horse, it seemed only fitting that I capture them through my lens in a way that grasps their true essence and tells their story. A final nod to them for their trusted service and a treasured memory for us.

One of my most memorable senior horse sessions was with a strapping grey stallion named Dinamico XII, a well-known PRE stallion of the Manolo Mendez Dressage Stables.

Manolo was thrilled to have some beautiful photographs of his most beautiful horses saying “Rachel is very passionate, kind; and made the entire experience a pleasure. She appreciates and honours each individual horse’s beauty and spirit. I definitely recommend a photoshoot experience with Rachel.”

“They [photographs] are very important. When we reflect on our past and what we have done they help enrich our memories.”

Rachel Flynn Equine Photography The Senior Horse Project Manolo Mendez Dressage Dinamico XII

Unfortunately Dinamico XII [above & below] has passed onto greener pastures over the rainbow bridge and his legacy remains in those precious photographs.

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography The Senior Horse Project Manolo Mendez Dressage

I think we all have that one special horse (perhaps more), who we feel a particular and often difficult to articulate relationship with. A recent client of mine, Sky Royal, [above] really brought this to life for me when she said “I don’t really know how to put into words how much Swish means to me. He has taught me kindness, humility and courage. He has been a constant presence in my life, even through times that felt empty. It was a match thrown out of heaven when 10-year-old, headstrong me, met the equally headstrong Swish and navigated the world together. It has been one hell of adventure, from the high country to the coast, through laughter, tears and tantrums. How blessed am I that this little pony has so faithfully carried my heart through the last 20 years and became my soulmate.”

Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Senior Horse Project Nadine O'Sullivan

The Legacy of a Horse.
Rachel Flynn Equine Photography

The bond we create with a horse is something that needs to be documented and celebrated. Our Equestrian lifestyle. Our love.

If you have a special senior horse in your life and are interested in learning more about a fine art equine photography session with me, please get in touch. Based in Neerim South, West Gippsland, Victoria, I travel Australia-wide and find no greater joy than capturing the legacy of your most beloved companions. Learn more about the Senior Horse Project or get in touch today.

Register your interest here : EMAIL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Stay in touch with Rachel Flynn Equine Photography: FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE & BLOG

Equine Portrait Specialist — Fine Art Horse Photography at Cristogracia Spanish Horse Stud

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Sep 18, 2022 | Behind the Lens, Destination Sessions, Equine Photography

Cristogracia Spanish Horse Australia, Rachel Flynn Equine Photography, Welsh A cob, unicorn pony, equine portrait specialists

Equine Portrait Specialist — Fine Art Horse Photography at Cristogracia Spanish Horse Stud

Elegant equine portraiture is one of my favourite specialties in photography. I am Rachel Flynn, fine art equine and pet photographer based in Neerim South, West Gippsland, Victoria, and I bring the beauty I see in every horse through my lens to capture timeless fine art portraits so that your horses can be honoured and remembered, always.

There is something truly special about equine portrait photography. Every horse has a presence, a unique personality, a way of holding themselves, an expression in their eyes that tells you everything about who they are. My role as an equine portrait specialist is to capture that essence. Not just a photograph of a horse, but a portrait that tells their story and preserves their spirit forever in fine art.

A Destination Session at Cristogracia Spanish Horse Stud

During one of my destination sessions to Far North Queensland, I had the opportunity to photograph the beautiful horses of Cristogracia Spanish Horse stud and training facility in Tarzali. As a West Gippsland based equine photographer, I regularly travel Australia-wide to bring fine art horse portraiture to horse owners and breeders wherever they are, and this session was one I will never forget.

It was an absolute pleasure to meet Chris, Grant, and their extraordinary team of horses. The property was breathtaking and the horses themselves were simply stunning, each one with a presence and elegance that made my job a true joy.

One of the most elegant mares I have ever had the privilege of photographing was Cristogracia Son Risa, a beautiful Andalusian mare whose poise and grace in front of the lens was extraordinary. She was one of those horses who simply knows she is beautiful, and the camera absolutely loved her.

Cristogracia Son Risa, Cristogracia Spanish Horse Australia, Rachel Flynn Equine Photography, Australian Andalusian, equine portrait specialists

The beauty of your Horse immortialised forever in Equine Art.

The Beauty of the Spanish Horse

The Spanish horse, the PRE or Andalusian, is one of the most photographed breeds in the world for good reason. Their naturally arched necks, expressive eyes, flowing manes and innate elegance make them extraordinary subjects for fine art equine portraiture.

Photographing Son Risa and the horses of Cristogracia reminded me of just how powerful equine portrait photography can be when the horse truly embodies the art form.

Little Fudge — The Star of the Show

Not every star of a photoshoot is the tallest horse in the paddock. Cristogracia Fudge, a beautiful Welsh A pony, quickly proved that character knows no height restriction. Little Fudge stole the show from the very first moment, his cute looks and enormous personality filling the frame with every shot. He has a very special role at Cristogracia, assisting children as they learn to ride, and Chris tells me he is loved by absolutely everyone who meets him. It is not hard to see why.

Cristogracia Seriosa

The third horse I had the privilege of photographing was the beautiful Cristogracia Seriosa, an elegant mare who showed us her tricks and reminded me that horses, when they are comfortable and confident, will always give you something unexpected and magical through the lens.

Fine Art Equine Portraiture — Your Horse, Your Legacy

Every horse deserves to be photographed at their finest. Whether you have a competition horse, a beloved paddock companion, a senior horse entering their twilight years, or a stunning stallion at the height of his prime, fine art equine portrait photography creates something that will outlast us all.

Based in Neerim South, West Gippsland, Victoria, I offer on-farm indoor and outdoor studio sessions as well as on-location sessions across some of Victoria and Australia’s most beautiful settings. I travel Australia-wide for destination sessions and would love to bring this experience to you and your horses wherever you are.

Each session is calm, unhurried, and guided entirely by the horse. The very best equine portraits are never forced. They happen in the quiet moments, the unguarded glances, the natural expressions that only patience and trust can unlock.

Cristogracia Spanish Horse Australia, Rachel Flynn Equine Photography, Welsh A cob, unicorn pony

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Cristogracia Spanish Horse Stud QLD Insta 0D5_2615

The Project

My creative vision for that year’s calendar was to place a white horse on the cover, and the moment I captured this image of Cristogracia Son Risa, I knew she was the one. My goal has always been to showcase the beauty of the horse in a way that is artistic, timeless, and genuinely worth hanging on a wall.

Rachel Flynn Photography’s limited edition equine calendars make wonderful gifts for any horse lover, featuring twelve months of fine art horse photography to grace any home or office. View the current calendar in the Rachel Flynn Photography Shop.

2023 Horses Equine Calendar, Australian Horse Photography, Horse Calendar Australia, Horse Calendar

Book Your Equine Portrait Session

Would you love your horse captured in an elegant fine art portraiture session in West Gippsland, Victoria or at your property Australia-wide? Whether you are a horse breeder, an equestrian competitor, or simply someone who loves their horse and wants to honour them through art, I would love to hear from you.

Stay in touch with Rachel Flynn Photography: EMAIL | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

Stay in touch with Rachel Flynn Equine Photography: FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE & BLOG

The Equine Lifestyle — Photographing Multi Australian Cowgirl Champion Shianne O’Donoghue

by Rachel Flynn Photography | Jun 17, 2022 | Behind the Lens, Destination Sessions, Equine Photography, Horse and Rider

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 2095

The Equine Lifestyle — Photographing Multi Australian Cowgirl Champion Shianne O’Donoghue

As a travelling fine art equine and pet photographer based in Neerim South, West Gippsland, Victoria, I am fortunate to meet the most interesting people who share a passion and love for horses. I am Rachel Flynn and through my lens I get to document the extraordinary stories that exist between horses and the people who love them.

Every person’s journey with their horse is individual and unique, whether our horses are paddock companions, used for work, high level competition or maybe just a fun weekend hobby. The bond you create with your horse is very special, and it deserves to be captured and treasured forever.

Photography is the beauty of life captured

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 1737

I was recently privileged to photograph Shianne O’Donoghue, multi Cowgirl Champion of Australia, on her family farm in Bunyip, Victoria. Having the opportunity to photograph Shianne and her horses doing what they love was an absolute pleasure, and the photographs really tell the story of the diversity of Shianne’s horses and her extraordinary talent.

Shianne has successfully competed since age 3 and comes from a family of competitive riders. Shianne’s wins to date are 2015 & 2016 APRA Pro Tour Barrel Racing & all-around champion; 2015 APRA all-around Rookie champion of Australia; 2015 APRA Rookie Barrel Racing champion of Australia; 2016 APRA all-around champion cowgirl of Australia; 2016 APRA Barrel Racing champion of Australia with multiple State Barrel racing and all-around champion titles.

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 2-1542

“I have so many circumstances I wished there was a camera for, mainly the hard times – the training in grass paddocks, the 2am walking horses who are sick or all the late-night drives to and from rodeos where it’s just you, your horse and the road. Those are the things I wish I had more recollection of, the times where you feel like you have nothing but your horses and you just go and ride to clear your mind or compete to feel something.

When I won the 2016 titles I was in a very dim place. I didn’t feel like I had much at all apart from my horse, Cool. I was lost and barrel racing was the only thing I felt I had. Winning those titles did so much more for me than just another title. It gave me hope and let me trust in the process just enough to keep pursuing a career in the equine industry.” Shianne said.

All the late nights and early mornings will pay off.

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Barrel Racing

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta-1777

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta-1868

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta-1882

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 1539

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta-1946

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 2101

©Rachel Flynn Equine Photography Final Dust Barrel Racing, Rodeo Australia, Cowgirl, Shianne O'Donoghue Insta 2-2042

Why I am so passionate about learning & capturing ***Your* *Story***

As a horse rider and breeder myself, I have learned over the years that the journey we have with our own horse is exceptionally unique to the two of us. Having owned more than one horse, I was quick to learn that every horse has a different personality and the opportunity for a new journey unlike any other develops.

Over time we build a relationship that becomes our bond, and our story is built on the journey and love we share. Photographing my own horses has always been a passion because I know that one day when all I have left are photographs, I will treasure them dearly. Now I get to give that same gift to my clients across Victoria, Australia and beyond, so they too can treasure their beautiful memories forever.

Unique photoshoot experience with Rachel Flynn

Would you love your story captured in a fine art equine photography session in West Gippsland, Victoria or at your property Australia-wide? Whether you ride for pleasure, compete at the highest level, or simply share an unbreakable bond with your horse, I would love to photograph your story.

GET IN TOUCH | VIEW THE EXPERIENCE | BOOK NOW | Shianne O’Donoghue INSTAGRAM

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