The year 2025 provided a stunning visual tapestry of life in Western Australia, as captured through the lenses of The West Australian's award-winning photographers. From intimate family moments to scenes of historic political victory and elite sporting achievement, their work has documented the state's biggest stories.
A Year of Milestones and Celebration
Among the most heartwarming images of the year was that of Marie Sakalo celebrating her 103rd birthday in the Perth suburb of Mt Lawley in July. Surrounded by her loving family, the centenarian was assisted by her great-grandson, Josh, as she blew out the candles on her birthday cake. The photograph, taken by Michael Wilson, encapsulates a profound moment of intergenerational joy and longevity.
In a completely different arena, another significant milestone was recorded in March. The lens of photographer Kelsey Reid captured the moment Premier Roger Cook was greeted by ecstatic Labor Party supporters on State Election night. The image commemorated his leadership in securing the party a historic and emphatic third consecutive term in government, a defining moment in WA's political landscape.
Triumph on the Track and in the Community
The sporting prowess of Western Australia was also on full display. In April, the Australian Athletics Championships held in Perth saw a stunning performance from 17-year-old sprint sensation Gout Gout. Michael Wilson's photograph froze the exact moment the young athlete powered to victory in the Men's 200m final, signalling the rise of a new track star.
Community spirit and endurance were highlighted in February, as Daniel Wilkins photographed competitor Andrew Haak among thousands preparing for the Rottnest Channel Swim at Cottesloe Beach at 5am on a chilly morning. The annual swim to WA's favourite holiday island remains a beloved and gruelling test of fitness.
Innovation, Hope, and Future Stars
In the medical field, a groundbreaking global first at King Edward Memorial Hospital was documented by Ross Swanborough in November. The touching image shows the tiny hands of baby Iris wrapped around her mother's fingers, as doctors used cutting-edge technology to examine the fragile skin of preterm babies, offering new hope for their care.
Looking to the future of sport, Andrew Ritchie turned his camera on 11-year-old table tennis prodigy Samuel Win. After a year filled with medals and titles, the young athlete is poised to cement his reputation as one of Australia's top prospects in the sport.
These selected images represent just a fraction of the visual storytelling that has defined the year for Western Australians. They serve as a powerful reminder of the state's diversity, resilience, and capacity for both monumental achievement and simple, human connection.
