For Emerald photographer Michelle, there’s nothing more rewarding than capturing the bond between people and their pets. Now, for the third year in a row, she’s turning that passion into a way to give back with her “Pets of the Hills calendar”, showcasing much-loved local animals. Every dollar raised going directly to the Gembrook Wildlife Shelter – a cause that’s especially close to Michelle’s heart.
Since relocating from Ferntree Gully to Emerald a little over three years ago, Michelle has fallen in love with the Hills and the people who call it home – many of whom treat their pets as true family members.
“Being new to the area, I wanted to find a way to give back to this beautiful community while also getting to know the locals,” Michelle said.
“The idea for the calendar was something close to my heart – a way to connect, celebrate our pets, and support a cause that really matters.”
It was a casual conversation at Emerald Stockfeed that first sparked the idea into motion.
The staff there loved the concept and pointed Michelle in the direction of Gembrook Vet, where she learned about the tireless work of Helen, the quiet force behind Gembrook Wildlife Shelter.
“When I first spoke to Helen, her passion for wildlife was clear. She’s incredibly humble about the work she does, but when I visited the shelter, I was blown away. She’s turned her entire property into a haven for injured and orphaned animals. It’s her life’s work – and it’s all self-funded,” Michelle said.
That visit ignited Michelle’s determination to help – not with words, but with action.
Through Pets Of The Hills, local pet owners can donate $65 to have their furry, feathered or fluffy companion professionally photographed for a chance to be featured in the 2026 calendar.
The experience includes a 90-minute session, a printed calendar, a photo viewing session, and a $100 credit for photo purchases – with 5 per cent of sales also donated to the shelter.
“It’s not just a photo shoot. It’s a forever memory of their beloved pet and I love seeing the connection between pets and their people,” Michelle said.
“There’s always laughter – dogs jumping on me, alpacas spitting at me, – but also really touching moments. Last year, I photographed a five-year-old boy and his miniature schnauzer, Barkley. Listening to him talk about their adventures and then seeing his pride when he saw the photographs – it was just beautiful”
The calendar has quickly become a local favourite, with familiar furry faces like Fergus the ginger cat from Nookee Cafe, Marley the Fernlea House Boxer-cross, and Pippa the Whippet from Gembrook all making appearances.
But the heart of the project is always Gembrook Wildlife Shelter.
Helen’s dedication means countless native animals – kangaroos, wombats, possums, even an emu – get a second chance.
She and a small team of volunteers work around the clock, with her volunteers coming during the mornings and only Helen wakes through the night. But wildlife volunteers in general work around-the-clock attending to call outs.
“I think people forget what happens after a car hits a kangaroo,” Michelle said.
“Helen is there, day in, day out, doing the work most of us never see. I hope this calendar not only raises money but raises awareness, too. Every person who buys a calendar becomes part of that awareness.”
Local support has been nothing short of inspiring.
With the help of Bendigo Bank Emerald and Surrounds – who’ve provided community sponsorship for both the 2025 and 2026 calendars – and several local businesses, the project has raised around $4000 each year.
“Having the support of our local business sponsors means we can cover printing costs, and that ensures every calendar sold puts money straight into Helen’s hands to buy feed and supplies for the animals,” Michelle said.
Applications are now open for the 2026 Pets Of The Hills calendar.
Michelle is currently seeking a few final pets to complete the line-up – including two cats, two horses or ponies, and one unique pet (think alpaca, goat, parrot, or anything in between).
“It’s been a joy to bring this project to life each year. It fulfils something deep within me – that desire to help, to give back, and to celebrate the special role pets play in our lives,” Michelle said.
To learn more or apply to have your pet featured, visit: www.capturedheartsphotography.com.au/calendar
