Jo Capon

Welcome to the inaugural edition of our Heritage Spotlight series! These Spotlights offer an in-depth look into the remarkable individuals who make up the Heritage College community. Whether they are students, parents, staff, alumni, or connected to us in some other special way, we aim to celebrate their unique stories and achievements.

In this first edition, we are thrilled to introduce you to Jo Capon. Jo shares her enriching experiences at Heritage College and her passion for photography. But there’s one thing Jo didn’t mention—her award-winning photograph that graced the front page of the Warragul Drouin Gazette. Dive in to learn more about Jo’s journey and see the stunning photo that captured the community’s attention.

Personal Journey

Hi, my name is Jo Capon, and I’ve been part of the Heritage College family since 2007. I began my journey here teaching Year 2/3, and now, I am the School Coordinator and Learning and Teaching Coordinator for the Narre Campus. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching countless students grow and thrive, and I have been dedicated to supporting both teachers and students in their educational journeys. My role allows me to engage with the curriculum deeply, ensuring that our teaching methods are effective and enriching for all our students.

One of my favourite hobbies is photography and a special moment for me was capturing a photo of three young Welcome Swallows. These native Australian birds are quite common around our school, but getting a clear shot of them is a rare treat due to their swift movements. My husband and I were in Paynesville for a baby dedication ceremony when we spotted these adorable swallows resting on a rope. It was a beautiful opportunity I couldn’t resist. This experience was not just a chance encounter; it was a testament to the beauty and unpredictability of nature, which I find endlessly fascinating and inspiring.

Passion for Photography

Swallows are notoriously difficult to photograph because they’re always zipping around in the sky. Seeing them calmly sitting was a unique and irresistible opportunity for me. I dream of turning my passion for nature photography into a profession one day. I would love to have my own exhibition, particularly showcasing bird portraits, and perhaps even sell copies of my work. My passion for photography isn’t just about capturing images; it’s about capturing moments that tell a story and evoke emotions. Each photograph is a piece of art that reflects my perspective on the world.

Spiritual Connection

My faith significantly influences my work and achievements. Capturing the intricate details of God’s creation through photography brings me immense joy, and I strive to share His handiwork with everyone. One of my favourite Bible verses is Psalm 34:7, which says, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” This verse brings me a sense of safety and peace, knowing that God is always protecting me. Photography allows me to showcase the divine beauty in the world around us, highlighting the intricate designs and wonders of nature.

Another verse that resonates with my passion is 1 Peter 4:10, “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” I believe I’ve been given a gift to share God’s creation through photography, and I am committed to practising and sharing my talent with others. This scripture reminds me to use my abilities not just for personal fulfilment but to inspire and uplift others, showing them the beauty of God’s world through my lens.

Words of Wisdom

To the Heritage College community, my advice is simple: if you have a gift or talent that God has given you, use it and share it. Don’t shy away from hard work when learning something new. Keep experimenting, practising, and always looking to improve. Remember, never compare yourself to others—compete with yourself. Know that you are amazing because God made you. This mindset has guided me in both my professional and personal life, helping me to grow and achieve my goals while staying true to my values.

Jo Capon’s journey is a testament to the power of combining passion, faith, and perseverance. She continues to inspire those around her, not only through her work at Heritage College but also through her beautiful nature photography. Her story encourages us all to recognise and cultivate our talents, using them to make a positive impact in our communities.