A picture of Rocky Bay customer Blake as he is holding his camera up to his face like he is taking a photo of the photographer.

Blake

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Rocky Bay customer Blake always had a natural curiosity for technology from a young age.

Now, thanks to Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree, Blake has been gifted his own camera, allowing him to pursue his creative passions, an important part of his identity.

Blake’s Mum Janelle said she thought introducing Blake to photography when he was younger would help his busy mind slow down.

“Blake’s mind is constantly racing, always eager to learn and explore… and I thought introducing him to photography might help him slow down, focus and become more present with the world around him,” Janelle said.

Janelle had bought a camera for her and Blake to share, and it quickly became clear Blake had developed a strong love for photography, much like his mother.

While it was evident Blake had found a passion for photography, purchasing another camera just for him wasn’t financially viable for the family at the time.

Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree would be the answer.

The Wishing Tree is funded entirely by donations and grants wishes to our customers when no other funding options are available.

There was plenty of excitement and gratitude from Blake upon receiving his brand-new  Canon EOS R50  with Twin Lens Kit from the Wishing Tree.

“It gave him a huge boost of confidence and a real sense of pride that someone believed in his passion enough to make this happen for him,” Janelle said.

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A new camera has allowed photography to become part of his routine.

“It’s given Blake a creative outlet that helps him slow down and express himself in a way that feels natural and fulfilling,” Janelle said.

“He now carries his camera almost everywhere and finds beauty in the smallest details.

“Photography has become part of his routine, something he genuinely looks forward to,” Janelle said.

How we helped

When asked what he loves so much about photography, his answer is simple.

“I want people to see the world through my eyes,” Blake said.

Importantly, photography is a way for Blake to connect with others without needing words.

“It’s his way of translating his thoughts and emotions into something visual and lasting,” Janelle said.

Janelle said it was emotional to see her child given an opportunity like this.

“The Wishing Tree made something possible we couldn’t have done ourselves, and for that, we’ll always be incredibly grateful,” Janelle said.

“It’s opened new possibilities, and we’ve already seen the benefit in the deeper connections he’s making through photography.

“The Wishing Tree is a reminder there are people and organisations who truly care about making a positive impact in the lives of individuals with unique needs and goals.

“That’s to the Rocky Bay Wishing Tree for the opportunity to support Blake’s passion,” Janelle said.

Find out more about the Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree here: https://www.rockybay.org.au/donate/wishing-tree/

A few words

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The Wishing Tree made something possible we couldn’t have done ourselves, and for that, we’ll always be incredibly grateful.

- Janelle, Blake's Mum

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