At the age of 94, Gordonvale photographer George Lisha has been awarded life membership of the Cairns Camera Club, a fitting tribute to a man who has spent more than eight decades behind the lens.
A Lifetime of Capturing Moments
George Lisha, a resident of Gordonvale, has been passionate about photography since his youth. His journey began in the 1940s when he first picked up a camera, and he has never looked back. Over the years, he has documented everything from family milestones to the changing landscapes of Far North Queensland.
The life membership was presented at a recent meeting of the Cairns Camera Club, where members gathered to honour Lisha's contributions. Club president John Smith said, 'George is an inspiration to us all. His dedication to photography and his willingness to share his knowledge with younger members is remarkable.'
A Humble Recipient
Despite the accolade, Lisha remains humble. 'I just love taking photos,' he said. 'It's a hobby that has kept me young. I never expected any recognition, so this is a wonderful surprise.' Lisha's work includes a vast collection of black-and-white prints from the mid-20th century, capturing the region's history.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Lisha has been an active member of the Cairns Camera Club for over 30 years, often mentoring newcomers. His advice to budding photographers is simple: 'Take your camera everywhere and never stop learning.' Club member Sarah Jones noted, 'George has a wealth of experience. He can look at a scene and instantly know how to capture its essence.'
The life membership is the club's highest honour, reserved for those who have made outstanding contributions. Lisha joins a select group of recipients, and his name will be added to the club's honour roll.
As Lisha continues to click away, his legacy serves as a reminder that passion knows no age. The Cairns Camera Club plans to display a selection of his works at their annual exhibition later this year.
