UCOL Manawatū photography lecturers Gerry le Roux and Tricia Falkner have proven that excellence in teaching goes hand-in-hand with excellence in practice, achieving prestigious honours at the 2025 NZIPP Iris Professional Photography Awards.
Tricia Falkner was awarded both a Gold Distinction and a Gold in the Creative category, while Gerry le Roux earned a Gold Distinction in Portraiture, three Silver awards across Landscape, Portraiture and Documentary, and a Bronze in Landscape.
Gerry le Roux says the results are a special moment for both lecturers.
“The results achieved by us as lecturers — being awarded a Gold, not to mention a Gold Distinction — at these awards is quite a rare achievement that definitely doesn’t come around every year, if ever. The fact that both Tricia and I gained this standard this year is quite special.”
Stephanie West, Academic Portfolio Manager – Creative, Development & Transition, says the success of UCOL’s kaimahi reinforces the strength of photography within our creative programmes.
“Our lecturers don’t just teach photography — they live it. Gerry and Tricia’s achievements show that our students are learning from professionals who are recognised at the highest level in Aotearoa. It’s inspiring, and it’s part of what makes UCOL a great choice to study photography in New Zealand.”
The Iris Awards, run by the New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography (NZIPP), is the country’s most prestigious photography competition. Judged by panels of respected national and international experts, the awards celebrate technical excellence, originality, and creative vision.
“When our lecturers are winning Gold Distinctions, and our students are sweeping the awards, it sends a clear message: UCOL is where photographic talent is nurtured, challenged, and celebrated.”
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