From War Zones to Wheatfields: A Photographer's Journey into the Heart of Australian Outback Women. Martine Perret, a celebrated photographer, has traded the intensity of United Nations peacekeeping missions for the serene landscapes of Western Australia's Midwest. Her project, Women of the Hinterlands, is a powerful testament to the strength and resilience of rural women.
After more than a decade documenting conflict zones, Perret, now based in WA's South West, shifted her focus to the outback, exploring the deep connection women have with the land.
Between 2021 and 2024, Perret immersed herself in the lives of women across Morawa, Mingenew, Perenjori, and Carnamah, culminating in the Women of the Hinterland exhibition. "It was pretty extraordinary that all of these women were willing to share and reveal some aspects of their life," she shared.
Perret spent countless hours with each woman, listening to their stories and exploring the themes of her hinterland project. "They are really resilient and strong women. It's been such a pleasure to spend time with them," she said. Initially planning to photograph just six women, her ambition grew to include 21 portraits. "We wanted to highlight women from different places," she explained. "It was really important to showcase the diversity we have here in terms of stories and to show how important women are."
One shoot, in particular, stands out: the session with Giulia Censi on the Yarra Yarra Salt Lake. The portrait was meant to symbolize her move from Italy to Australia, capturing travel, resilience, and new beginnings. But here's where it gets controversial... "She was beautifully dressed and had these beautiful shoes and then all of a sudden, her feet sank into the mud," Perret recalled. Despite the mishap, Giulia kicked off her shoes and continued barefoot, turning the situation into a moment of laughter and connection.
Another memorable session was with Madeline Anderson in Dandaragan. Before the shoot, Madeline sought her grandfather's permission to use white ash, a culturally significant element. "It became spiritual, and I appreciated her revealing this and for letting me be involved," Perret said. She emphasizes the openness and trust the women showed, making the project incredibly rewarding. "I'm super grateful that these women were willing to reveal their stories to me. It's always such a privilege and honour to be trusted."
Perret's next project, Saltwater Women, will continue to highlight the stories of rural women, this time focusing on women in the Geraldton area. And this is the part most people miss... Her ultimate goal is to bring Saltwater Women and Women of the Hinterland together for a major exhibition, a grand celebration of women in a couple of years. Women of the Hinterland was completed as part of a North Midlands Project residency and is on display at the Morawa Arts and Cultural Centre until November 15.
What do you think? Does Perret's shift in focus from conflict zones to the Australian outback resonate with you? Do you think the stories of rural women are often overlooked? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
