Greg Barnett runs an earth moving business in Brisbane but his passion for photography has led to a special P&O Cruises’ photographic assignment in the South Pacific, according to a statement from the cruise line.

The combination of wet weather in Brisbane stopping earth moving work earlier this year and a spontaneous decision to have an impromptu family holiday in Sydney led to him capturing this amazing image of Pacific Explorer passing Pacific Jewel. (above)

There was only one thing for it after P&O Cruises President Sture Myrmell saw Greg’s iconic image.

“We decided immediately to send Greg and his camera on a cruise as our guest to capture his signature view of some wonderful destinations in the South Pacific,” Myrmell said. “We can’t wait to see the results.”

Barnett and his wife Carol will leave Brisbane on August 19 onboard Pacific Dawn for a seven-night cruise from Brisbane to Noumea, Lifou and Port Vila.

Barnett explained that he happened to be in Sydney with his family for the Vivid when he noticed Pacific Explorer sailing under the Sydney Harbour Bridge with Pacific Jewel berthed nearby at the Overseas Passenger Terminal.

“We were down in Sydney for the weekend staying in an apartment overlooking the harbour,” Barnett said. “My son wanted to go for an early morning swim in the rooftop pool and it was then that I saw the two P&O ships. I thought it would make a fantastic photograph and I grabbed my camera.

“Over the years, I have purchased some very good camera equipment because I love photography but I never imagined it would lead to a photographic assignment. We are really looking forward to the cruise and capturing some great images.”