I have to say, there isn’t a lot to inspire me in Port Augusta itself so I thought I’d seek out a couple of the locals to see if they could suggest anything. I saw an old, rutty looking bloke sitting with one leg crossed over the other on a bench nearby and I immediately pigeon holed him as an old cockie. He certainly looked the part as he had deep, deep crevices in his face from being out in the sun all day, a “rollie” hanging out of his mouth ( I don’t even think it was lit). His hands resembled leather and his hat, well, it was threadbare, shaggy and certainly well worn. As I approached him, he slowly looked up at me as if I had interrupted something important. After asking him the question, he looked back down at the pavement and eventually, he slowly nodded his head and eventually said, “The Ghan, mate…………….. yeahhhhh, The Ghan”. In my mind, I recall saying to myself that it wasn’t what I had in mind but I thanked him anyway and as I walked away, the thought of photographing The Ghan started to appeal to me.

The Ghan is a more of a tourist type passenger train that operates between Adelaide and Darwin and is described as one of the world’s great passenger trains. I’ve never been on it nor have I seen it. Hmmmm, I liked the idea. After a bit more research, it is known to regularly leave Port Augusta quite a few hours late. Still, I had to find a suitable location and just wait for it.

I found myself on an old dirt track and after setting up my camera, all I had to do now is wait……. and wait for that train. To be honest, when it comes to photography, I’m not all that patient. (I’d make a hopeless wildlife photographer). I started picking up rocks and throwing them at various targets just to help pass the time. It started to get quite late and my initial intention of carrying out the old cockie’s suggestion of photographing The Ghan was quickly slipping by.

I picked up another rock and turned around ready to throw it in the opposite direction. What I saw literally stopped me in my tracks (excuse the pun). I dropped the rock and quickly picked up my tripod and camera. I ran about 20 metres from where I originally stood but facing the other direction. The setting sun had briefly lit up the Flinders Ranges which made a perfect backdrop to the gum trees which seemed to strike a pose just for a few moments.

Train ???? What train…………….. ( I quietly thanked the ole bloke )

Prints:

Print Paper:
Canson Infinity – Photosatin Premium RC Inkjet Fine Art & Photo Paper 270 gms

Print Size Options are Available:
Please contact me for more information about your selection

Also, please review our Print Information regarding products, shipping, and other general enquiries.