The Finley photographer established the not-for-profit association ‘Just One Drop’, and has encouraged 24 local farmers to pose for the calendar - one featuring men and the other featuring women.
Nicknamed the ‘Murray Darlings’ and the ‘Blokes of the Basin’, they where photographed in the raw at a number of local venues including Finley Saleyards and the Doohans’ Finley.
“The photo shoots went well, all of the models got involved and were supportive of each other with their individual shots,” Miss McDonald said.
“The women's shoot was interesting as it took place on a day that saw most of the shoot done in the rain. We joked about bringing the rain with us.
“I think it's important for our farmers and everyone in Australia to know just how bad the drought is, and starting a Facebook page and doing the calendar is just the first step in bringing this to peoples’ attention.”
When she's not behind the camera, Miss McDonald cares for her one year-old son Rhuairidh and studied law and criminology course through a University of New England correspondence course.
Her partner Sandy Haddow is a shearer, and it is his experiences which inspired her to do something.
“We slowly noticed that Sandy was doing less shearing, I have worked at the shed as well and it let us see just how many industries in our region are being affected by this drought,” Miss McDonald said.
“The money raised will be used to help buy water for those who are in desperate need of it, this includes the basic living essentials of drinking and shower water as well as stock water.
“We know because it is our first year we will not be able to contribute a large amount to the cause but, as we say, Just One Drop can start a ripple of change.”
Miss McDonald said she's received support from local businesses in her efforts, including from the Finley Bakery, Ashley Haynes Butchery and Finley IGA who provided food and refreshments during the photo shoots.
“We also had monetary help from Greg McNamara for shirts for the calendar participants, and Landmark Finley donated $100 towards the creation of the calendar as well.”
For more information about the project or to purchase a calendar, go to http://justonedrop.webstarts.com/.