26/11/2024

At the November meeting of Council, it was a great honour to recognise two photojournalists who profoundly enriched our community: John Veage and Chris Lane. Their contributions, spanning decades, have made an indelible mark on the history and spirit of the Georges River area, capturing its heartbeat and documenting our stories with skill, dedication, and artistry. 

True legends of the lens, John and Chris have each captured so many important moments through their reporting and images, covering community campaigns like Carss Park Pool, NAIDOC week celebrations, and Anzac Day Services.   

John has dedicated nearly 40 years to capturing the life of our community through his work. A familiar face at local events and sporting sidelines, John’s passion and expertise have made him an icon in his own right. From the break of dawn on the surf to the intensity of community events, John has consistently captured the moments that make our community unique. 

John's work goes beyond just photography; it is a celebration of the people and places that define Georges River. His images capture stories of resilience, triumph, and the quiet strength of our residents. John’s commitment extended beyond photography for The Leader, as he also served as the official photographer for Cycling Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia. His legacy as a mentor to aspiring photographers continues to inspire and guide the next generation. 

Chris Lane, whose career at The Leader spans nearly 25 years, has been an equally vital presence. Known for his calm demeanour and dedication, Chris joined John’s team with an eagerness that quickly turned into mastery. 

His love of photography and his commitment to the craft have brought our community’s most dramatic and heartfelt moments to life—from capturing the fury of the 2015 Kurnell tornado to the celebratory highs of the Sharks’ 2016 Grand Final win. Chris’ images have become integral to our collective memory, blending technical precision with an eye for humanity. His work speaks not only of events but also of the people who shape them.

Together, John and Chris have done more than document history; they have preserved the character of our community. Their photos are a testament to the power of local journalism, ensuring that every story, no matter how big or small, finds its place in our shared narrative. Through their lenses, they have given us the gift of reflection—of seeing ourselves, our triumphs, and even our struggles. 

As they both close this chapter of their lives, we offer our deepest thanks and best wishes for their future endeavours. John and Chris, thank you for capturing our history, our spirit, and our community with such dedication and care. You are both, in every sense, our local legends.