Harry's Chooks - the Turkeys of Shelly Beach

Beautiful Shelly Beach at Port Macquarie had a self-appointed guardian, Harry, who squated for 40 years on the beach in his caravan. When the council tried to move him on, the locals defended his right to stay there.

Shelly Beach is also home to a large flock of native bush turkeys which Harry called his 'chooks'. These little characters like to roam about ferreting through unsupervised picnic baskets.

I'm attracted to the individuality of each turkey and how their continued presence keeps the memory of Harry and his community spirit alive.