Imagine a community’s visual storytellers, the ones who’ve captured its essence for over two decades, suddenly stepping away from the lens. That’s exactly what’s happening with Colin and Laurie Rouse, the dynamic duo behind countless cherished photos in Dubbo Photo News. For more than 20 years, their images of local faces, places, and events have become the heartbeat of our publication, connecting readers to the pulse of their community. But now, as they embrace retirement, their focus shifts from the viewfinder to their own well-deserved chapter of rest and family.
At 70 and 66 respectively, Colin and Laurie are no strangers to the grind. Their journey with Dubbo Photo News has been a labor of love, but it’s time to slow down. Health considerations now take center stage, allowing them to prioritize what matters most: spending quality time with their five adult children and 10 grandchildren, most of whom are nearby. It’s a bittersweet transition, leaving behind their long-standing partnership with the region’s beloved free newspaper, but one they’re ready to embrace.
Colin’s passion for photography ignited at 19, when he first peered through a camera lens and fell head over heels for the art. Alongside Laurie, he built a thriving photography and videography business in Dubbo, supporting their family of seven solely through his craft—a rarity in an industry often dominated by side hustles. Laurie, the unsung hero behind the scenes, managed the business’s backbone, ensuring its smooth operation. Together, they were a powerhouse team.
But here’s where it gets controversial: as the digital age dawned, their once-flourishing business faced unprecedented challenges. The shift from film to digital wasn’t just a technological leap—it was a financial one. Investing in a $250,000 digital processing machine to stay competitive, they became pioneers in their region, offering digital printing before most. Yet, the rise of cheap photo processing by big chains dealt a crushing blow, ultimately forcing their business to close. Is innovation always a blessing, or can it leave small businesses in the dust? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
The early 2000s were tough. With limited equipment and financial strain, Colin pivoted to videography, specializing in eisteddfods—a niche that kept them afloat. Laurie recalls the sheer volume of Colin’s work, often snapping 60,000 photos at a single event, capturing every dancer, actor, and musician in motion. Their resilience during this period is a testament to their dedication.
In 2004, they joined forces with Dubbo Photo News at its Wingewarra St location, marking the beginning of a partnership that would define their later careers. Colin’s social photos became a staple, and making the front page was always a highlight. Eleven years ago, they moved to Wellington, initially drawn by affordable housing but quickly falling in love with the community. They’ve since become cherished locals, contributing photos and even delivering the newspaper to outlets—a physically demanding task now ended with their retirement.
And this is the part most people miss: while Colin and Laurie’s professional photography defined them, they also juggled other roles, balancing their business, RSVP Rouse Studio of Video and Photography, with evolving commitments. Technological advancements, coupled with health challenges, ultimately sealed their decision to retire. As Laurie aptly puts it, ‘Everyone’s got a phone in their hand, and photography and videography has become a very different game.’
Now, with cameras set aside professionally, they’ll enjoy casual photography and perhaps continue their eisteddfod involvement. They’ll remain loyal readers of Dubbo Photo News, a publication they’ve enriched immeasurably. From all of us at Dubbo Photo News, Colin and Laurie, thank you for the memories, the laughter, and the moments frozen in time. Here’s to your retirement, your health, and the legacy you leave behind. It’s only fitting that this week’s front page is dedicated to you. Cheers to the next chapter!
