The tender, poignant, and powerful moments captured in the photo festival are a testament to the human spirit. Among the many stories, one stands out: the portrait of Najah al-Rajabi tenderly caring for her grandson Awad, who has lived in a coma for six years. The family faces an uncertain future, with the threat of eviction looming over them. The photo, taken by the Herald's chief photographer, Kate Geraghty, has been recognized in Australia's largest photography festival, Head On, for its intimate portrayal of the grandmother and grandson. Geraghty's work highlights not only the family's struggle but also the plight of all Palestinians. The Head On Photo Festival, running throughout November, showcases a diverse range of images by 700 photographers worldwide, with exhibitions across Australia. The festival's most popular exhibition, along Bondi Beach promenade, features Walkley Award-winning sports photography, including a piece by Herald photographer Wolter Peeters. Additionally, the festival will screen the Australian premiere of the controversial documentary 'The Stringer', which questions the authenticity of a famous Vietnam War photograph. Founded by a photographer who felt excluded from exhibitions, Head On director Moshe Rosenzveig received thousands of anonymous submissions, with Geraghty's portrait standing out for its emotional depth and powerful portrayal of a tender moment.
