Award-Winning Photographer, Educator, and Conservationist
THEIR STORY
Matt Cornish is an award-winning wildlife photographer, guide, and educator based in Far North Queensland. With over 20 years’ experience, he has inspired countless people through close encounters with crocodiles, snakes, rare rainforest birds, and marsupials. From reptile keeper to leading tours across the Daintree and Atherton Tablelands, his work blends photography, storytelling, and conservation, earning recognition in major photography awards and through his own Wild Guide.
What is one bird encounter you will never forget?
This question is one that has been bouncing around in my head for way too long, I am not saying this was my favourite encounter (I could never answer that question) but definitely one that has burnt a place in my brain.
In early 2025 I was fortunate enough to spend some time in the American West including Yellowstone National Park. One morning while driving the northern end of the park I stopped to check out a place called Blacktail ponds. At this time of the year the ponds were frozen and inside was a deceased bison with its back arching out of the frozen water. On top of the carcass was a Bald Eagle feeding on its frozen flesh.
For me, that was a moment in time that was not only brutally impressive but also so iconic.
You’ve got a golden ticket to go anywhere in the world to see a bird? Where would you go and why?
I have been fortunate enough over the years to undertake some incredible domestic and international wildlife travel opportunities and have seen some of the most phenomenal and iconic birds of the world.
In saying that, one place I am excited to visit is Antarctica and the Falkland Islands for its mass penguin colonies. The striking colours of the penguins against the intense landscape is something my eyeballs are dying to witness and my camera keen to photograph.
How is birding part of your life today?
As an Australian based Expedition Leader and Photo guide, birds play a significant part of my everyday existence. When showcasing the natural beauty of our continent, the bird life of Australia is front and centre. From a secretive Golden Bowerbird creating its extravagant bower to the marvellous call of the Gang-Gang Cockatoo as it flies through the Grampians, the Birds of Australia are its beating heart.
Not only do birds play a huge part in my professional life they also hold a place of relaxation in my personal life. Living in the rainforest of Far North Queensland, the bird calls of 'home' help rejuvenate me after a long tour around Australia.
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