Groundbreaking macrophotography offers glimpse into Queensland’s prehistory

In deep regional Queensland, a retired commercial photographer is finding new life in macrophotography, focusing on ancient life.
Steve Young's macrophotography focuses on ancient life barely a micron in size. Here: the metatrichica floraformis. Image: Steve Young

When commercial photographer Steven Young began volunteering at the Eromanga Natural History Museum, he didn’t expect to call upon his creative background. The Museum, located 11 hours west of Brisbane, is home to Australia’s largest dinosaur fossil, and Young’s new research project, which sees him resurrecting prehistoric vegetation.

He is passionate about his work. “We sift through the soil,” he says, “looking for these microscopic traces. Once we find them, we send them to be formally identified by a paleontologist, and then attempt to grow them.” 

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David Burton is a writer from Meanjin, Brisbane. David also works as a playwright, director and author. He is the playwright of over 30 professionally produced plays. He holds a Doctorate in the Creative Industries.