Unfortunately while a few from down-under made the shortlist, I think it was only Stefan (and Martin Pugh with a joint entry) who made the final-cut this year.
The fact Stefan made his own optics that took the image is even more remarkable IMHO.
As for the winning image...it's in keeping with the RGO "Arthouse" theme...which the Malin's, shall we say...puts more emphasis on technical accuracy over "interpretation"
BTW ROG's winning image reminded me of my own annular eclipse expedition
some years ago...but I chose to shoot it in h-alpha (attached)