In late 2015, I had the privilege of travelling to the towns of Port Hedland and Exmouth to produce a documentary about the history of an area in Western Australia, known as "Cyclone Alley" - one of the most cyclone prone areas in the world.

After living and working in the north, I can understand why people choose to live along this dangerous stretch of coast. There is something truly spectacular about this unique landscape, with its outcrops of granite and sandstone, cast against the turquoise and gin-coloured ocean.

Photography copyright Kate Ferguson Media

Just as unique, are the people attracted to this part of the world - they carry a hardy charisma, sense of humour and adventure, which is a pleasure to document.

One such character is 88-year-old Arnold Carter, who has experienced 27 cyclones while living in Port Hedland including Cyclone Joan, a Category Five cyclone, which crossed the town in 1975. TC Joan still remains the most severe cyclone to hit the northwest town.

88-year-old Arnold Carter Photography copyright Kate Ferguson Media — 88-year-old Arnold Carter
Photography copyright Kate Ferguson Media

The documentary was produced over a two-week period in conjunction with DFES (Department of Fire and Emergency Services), BoM (Bureau of Meteorology) and the SES (State Emergency Service).

It features essential information regarding cyclone awareness and preparation.

Please feel free to share the link with friends and family living in the north of Australia.