The Age photos of the week, August 22, 2026

A series of photographs captured during the week of August 22, 2026, highlight diverse moments across Australia, ranging from personal tributes to community concerns and scientific breakthroughs. Among the images is a shot of swimmers Marilyn Crump and 16-year-old Amy Hodson using the only public pool in the Bass Coast Shire at Wonthaggi. The photograph, taken by Simon Schluter, underscores the significance of such recreational spaces in rural areas. In the realm of sports, Alice O’Loughlin of North Melbourne made a notable play during Round 23 of the AFLW, as documented by Ruby Alexander. Her effort contributed to her team's pursuit of victory against Geelong. Meanwhile, in Alice Springs, Telirah and Tamarni Lockyer were seen enjoying sparkly balloons at the night market, a moment of joy captured by Justin McManus. Natalie James, formerly the Fair Work Ombudsman, is depicted in a photograph by Joe Armao, showing her advocating for the removal of anti-Israel graffiti from her local council area. This image reflects broader societal tensions and individual efforts to address them. Another poignant moment features Naveena Nekkalapudi, who survived breast cancer but faces ongoing health challenges. She is shown in a photograph by Wayne Taylor, expressing her desire for systemic changes in cancer care. At home in Melbourne, Lady Primrose Potter is captured by Eddie Jim, offering a glimpse into the lives of prominent figures. A solemn scene unfolds at the funeral of five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby, held at Desert Life Church outside Alice Springs. The image, also by Justin McManus, shows family and friends mourning the child, who was allegedly murdered by Jefferson Lewis in early May. International violinist Patrick Savage is pictured with the instrument given to him by his mentor Donald Scotts, according to Chris Hopkins. This image highlights the legacy of musical instruction and its impact on artists. In Brighton, concerns over the future of the Wilson Recreation reserve are evident as Brighton Grammar School seeks to lease the land for facility upgrades, a move opposed by residents like Kevin Howard, whose dogs Isla and Luther are seen at the site, per Wayne Taylor. Associate Professor Justin Boddey, a malaria researcher at WEHI, and his colleagues may have discovered a method to transform mosquito bites into an immune-boosting experience, as noted by Jason South. This potential medical advancement could significantly alter approaches to disease prevention. Superstat co-founders Sam Hung, Cordelia King, and Kai Bloomfield are featured using AI technology to provide professional-level statistical analysis for amateur athletes, as captured by Eddie Jim. Josie van Doren, who worked at 1800 Lasagne for approximately two years, is photographed by Simon Schluter, highlighting the contributions of individuals in everyday roles. Mark Trengove, Michael Dragt, Mandy Cocks, Kristy Vasils, and their children Ollie and Savannah are shown at Staughton Vale Road, near the Bacchus Marsh Grammar School’s farm campus. They express concern over the school's direct approach to the planning minister regarding the construction of a primary school on the site, as detailed by Penny Stephens. Jon Martin and Peter Toms, leaders of the Brighton Beach Bowls Club, are seen alongside Bayside Council officials considering the termination of the club's lease to accommodate a new pavilion development, according to Joe Armao. Film director Chouwa Liang is featured at a MIFF screening of her film Replica, which explores the use of AI chatbots by women in China to combat loneliness, as captured by Simon Schluter. Lynne Moore and her son Craig honor Lynne’s late husband Ray, who died in action in 1969, at a commemorative service leading up to Vietnam Veterans Day, photographed by Chris Hopkins. Helen Redmond, suffering from dementia, is seen with her son-in-law Kelsey Brookes, emphasizing her struggle with memory loss and the withdrawal of aged care support, as recorded by Justin McManus. Al Siraat College’s co-founder and deputy principal, Ms. Rahat Arain Eppings, is highlighted in a photograph by Ruby Alexander, noting the rapid growth of Islamic schools in Melbourne. Finally, Daniel and Steve Hombsch are shown with a picture of Jenny Hombsch, who tragically died in August 2024 after being struck by a vehicle near her Baxter home.