Hobby sports photographer crowned Ipswich’s best

After a neck and neck race to the end, one Ipswich photographer, who works his days with Queensland Rail, has been crowned the best. Here’s his story.

Some of Darren McCabe's favourite works. Photos: Darren J McCabe Photography

One local sportster and talented hobby photographer has been crowned Ipswich’s best, in an intense battle for top spot.

Darren J McCabe Photography was overwhelmingly voted as Ipswich’s best and the man behind the lens says the title has given him a renewed confidence in his work, which he does a weekend hobby outside his job with Queensland Rail.

The man behind the lens, Darren McCabe.

“I started my hobby business just over five years ago by combining my interests in photography and local sport,” Mr McCabe said.

“I was filled with self doubt when I started my business – who will be interested in my photography? So this win vindicates my decision to start my business.”

Some of Darren McCabe's favourite works. Photos: Darren J McCabe Photography

“I have a full time job with Queensland Rail. My photography is a weekend thing.”

Mr McCabe’s business received hundreds of nominations on our social media call-out for the region’s best photographer.

“The thing I’m most proud of is getting feedback from local families on how much they appreciate the work I do to capture local sporting moments,” he said.

Some of Darren McCabe's favourite works. Photos: Darren J McCabe Photography

“I love taking photos at all levels of sport. From the Hook In2 Hockey program and the Ipswich Knights Under 6 and 7 teams, to the Ipswich Hornets in the Premier Grade cricket.

“One of the most inspiring aspects of what I do is being told one of my photos was given to someone‘s grandparent as a gift.”

Some of Darren McCabe's favourite works. Photos: Darren J McCabe Photography