World-renowned photographer Martine Perret, who spent over a decade documenting United Nations peacekeeping missions and conflict zones, has shifted her focus to capturing the intimate stories of women living in Western Australia's remote Midwest region. Her latest project, "Women of the Hinterland," presents powerful portraits of 21 women from small rural towns, highlighting their deep connection to the land and their remarkable resilience.

Perret, who now makes her home in Western Australia's Southwest region, worked extensively between 2021 and 2024 with women from the towns of Morawa, Mingenew, Perenjori, and Carnamah. The project began with plans to photograph just six women but expanded as Perret became increasingly captivated by the diverse stories she encountered. "It was pretty extraordinary that all of these women were willing to share and reveal some aspects of their life," Perret explained.

The photographer spent countless hours with each subject, listening to their personal narratives and exploring the central themes of rural life and women's relationship with the Australian landscape. "They are really resilient and strong women. It's been such a pleasure to spend time with them," she said. The project showcases women from various backgrounds and locations, emphasizing the diversity of experiences within Australia's rural communities.

Among the most memorable portrait sessions was one with Giulia Censi at the Yarra Yarra Salt Lake, intended to symbolize her journey from Italy to Australia and capture themes of travel, resilience, and new beginnings. "She was beautifully dressed and had these beautiful shoes and then all of a sudden, her feet sank into the mud," Perret recalled. "I was really apologetic and thought we would have to stop the shoot, but Giulia just kicked off her shoes and continued barefoot. We had the biggest laugh. It was a really funny shoot."

Another particularly significant session featured Madeline Anderson in Dandaragan, who requested permission from her grandfather to incorporate white ash into her portrait as a culturally significant element. "It became spiritual, and I appreciated her revealing this and for letting me be involved," Perret said. The photographer emphasized how the openness and trust demonstrated by all the women made the project deeply rewarding and meaningful.

The exhibition features diverse subjects including wool classer Louisa Cole, Ella DeBruyn who grew up on a farm in Carnamah nearly 300 kilometers northeast of Perth, Cheryl Bell from Mingenew located 360 kilometers northeast of Perth, Anna Tran from the Midwest area of Mingenew, Madeline Anderson living 170 kilometers northeast of Perth in Moora, and Nyree-Jane Taylor from Piawaning, 155 kilometers northeast of Perth.

Perret is already developing her next project, "Saltwater Women," which will continue to spotlight rural women's stories but will be based in Geraldton. "It's early days, so I can't share too much, but it's a work in progress," she explained. Her ultimate vision involves combining both projects into a major exhibition that would serve as "a big celebration of women" within the next couple of years.

"Women of the Hinterland" was completed as part of a North Midlands Project residency and is currently on display at the Morawa Arts and Cultural Centre through November 15. The exhibition represents Perret's commitment to documenting the strength, diversity, and unique stories of women who call Australia's remote regions home, continuing her career-long dedication to giving voice to underrepresented communities through the power of photography.