The colours of Busselton

Born and raised in Gosnells, south of Perth, Designer John Van Der Struyf has lived in the south-west for around 25 years. His photos were snapped by his partner, Tara. A nurse at Busselton Hospital, she captured the moment early one morning after coming off a night shift.

“A huge storm had been forecast for later in the day so she nipped down behind the hospital (which is virtually on the beach) and took the snaps after seeing the sky.

“She’s from a Narrogin sheep farming family and they have a saying, ‘Red sky in the morning, shepherd’s warning’, which was quite applicable at the time.

“We live one kilometre from where this was taken. I love the laid-back lifestyle; Perth is like a foreign country to me when I have to head up.

“During lunchtimes when it’s not winter, I head down there for a bit of a quiet reflection for a short while. The peace and serenity are quite cathartic.

“I have told Tara if I ever kick the bucket, I want my ashes spread here on a day just like this day in the photo.”