Welcome back to our series titled “On Location” which explores surfing hotspots around the world through the lens of a photographer that is renowned for shooting that area.
Each photographer will share some of their favourite surfing and lifestyle shots from that spot. They will also be giving the back story behind their relationship with the place and share travel tips and advice to help anyone whose thinking of heading there.
In the fourth feature of the series, we caught up with Russell Ord whose close relationship with Western Australia and the Margeret River Region has led to some of the best in water shots of the heaviest slabs on the planet.
Russell was deeply involved in playing Rugby League, surfing, and working as a firefighter. He began taking photography seriously in the early 2000s and quickly gained recognition for his intense and dramatic images of big-wave surfing and ocean landscapes.
Russell is a contributor to our Tracks print store and you can purchase some of the images featured in this piece, as well as others, here.
What originally brought you to this location? Tell us a bit about your history and relationship with the area.
RO: Like many folks in Margs, I was lured here by the surf. The consistent, powerful swells have been a part of my life for years, coming down the coast as groms in beat-up old Holdens. The chance to bring up the kids in a tight-knit community that loves a healthy, outdoor lifestyle was a major drawcard. When I landed a spot at the Bunbury Fire Station in 2001, moving from Perth to this stunning spot was a no-brainer. This personal connection to the area has had a massive impact on my surf photography career, and I love how people have built their lives around the sea.
How long have you been shooting here and what makes it so special for you?
RO: My journey into surf photography began with a twist of fate. A knee injury while surfing in 2001 could have left me idle, but instead, I picked up a camera and started capturing moments of my friends and the local boardriders. This unexpected turn of events sparked a passion for photography that continues to grow to this day. Margaret River is a goldmine for surf photography with its consistent, powerful waves, stunning coastal landscapes, and diverse surf breaks. Plus, the quality of surfers, mainly hard-charging tradies, out there daily keeps the stoke alive and endless opportunities for pushing boundaries in surf photography.
What are your favourite waves to shoot here and why?
RO: I love to shoot out at The Box; it’s heavy, and if shooting wide can be highly challenging. Hollow, powerful barrels breaking over a shallow shelf make for dramatic moments that keep you on your toes. It’s never a leisurely swim; other photographers can limit positioning, especially if the WSL is in town and there’s always strong currents and turbulent water. When caught out of position, it can be hazardous for the body. Just ask Spence Hornby about his little tangle with the reef.
Other than the surf, what are your favourite things about the area?
RO: Exploring the Cape to Cape Track is a great way to experience the Indian Ocean coastline. The track stretches approximately 123 kilometres from Cape Naturaliste to Cape Leeuwin along renowned surf breaks and through the Boranup Forest. It has endless photographic opportunities, so ditch the phone and everyday so-called commitments. It’s a perfect escape.
Recommendations for travel? Best way to get there, favourite places to stay or eat?
RO: Margs is roughly a three-hour drive from Perth, baring the never-ending roadworks. I highly recommend having wheels around here; public transport is low to non-existent. Direct flights to Busselton from Sydney/Melbourne is another option if coming from the East Coast.
As a tourist town, it’s set up to cater to most accommodation needs, including resorts, hotels, Airbnbs, caravan parks, and camping (free camping options are limited); however, during peak seasons the tourists swell and accommodation is at a premium (book early during these times). Sleeping in a van in undesignated carparks you can expect a knock on the window early by rangers or the occasional disgruntled local.
Like accommodation, Margs caters to everyone’s needs and preferences with its diverse food offerings. I am pretty simple and like to see bang for your buck when out eating, so the Tavern is a go-to for us as a family night out. There are 300 places to get coffee (a little exaggeration), a couple of notable spots: Redfeather / Combi Coffee at River (good after early Marg’s surf), Bottom Bakery, and Prev store; they are all pretty good because if you don’t make a good brew here it’s a quick business death.
