Need a Lift?

Need a lift? Youth Photography Competition runs every year in the lead up to Mental Health Month.

The competition invites young people aged 12-24 years who live, work or study in the Northern Sydney area to submit a photo that they find uplifting.

Images of finalists are showcased all over Northern Sydney during October to help uplift our communities during Mental Health Month.

Previous winners

Check out local winners from previous years below.

Two Eastern Grey kangaroos fighting in the bush — 2025 Need a Lift Competition Winner - Ayush, 24. Winner of the 19-24 years category. While walking through the bush, I spotted these kangaroos mid-play. Their carefree energy and freedom lifted my spirits, reminding me that even in nature’s wildest places, there’s always time for joy, laughter, and connection.

Winner of 19-24 years category. There is peace that is found when surrounded by rolling valleys, vast plains and towering mountains. More than a memento of this trek, this photo serves a reminder that the world is so much bigger than myself – there is always something new to explore, to see, to learn. — 2024 Need a Lift Competition Winner - Cindy, 24. Winner of 19-24 years category. There is peace that is found when surrounded by rolling valleys, vast plains and towering mountains. More than a memento of this trek, this photo serves a reminder that the world is so much bigger than myself – there is always something new to explore, to see, to learn.

Overall Winner. Nothing is more uplifting and peaceful than a glorious sunset and just sitting back and letting play out. That is what I like to think this photo represents in that it shows the true beauty of sunsets. — 2023 Need a Lift Competition Winner - James, 24. Overall Winner. Nothing is more uplifting and peaceful than a glorious sunset and just sitting back and letting play out. That is what I like to think this photo represents in that it shows the true beauty of sunsets.

Winner of 19-24 years category. The unique wildlife of the Australian bush uplifts me and always finds wonderful ways to surprise me. Here, a wallaby embraces her albino joey. I love the expression knowing it is safe in its mothers arms. A rare and heart-warming sight indeed! — 2022 Need a Lift Competition Winner - Kevin, 24. Winner of 19-24 years category. The unique wildlife of the Australian bush uplifts me and always finds wonderful ways to surprise me. Here, a wallaby embraces her albino joey. I love the expression knowing it is safe in its mothers arms. A rare and heart-warming sight indeed!

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