An iconic landmark of the Victor Harbor/Encounter Bay region, The Bluff is a popular spot for hikers and those seeking breathtaking views of Petrel Cove and Encounter Bay. If you’re adventurous enough to go off the dirt track, you will be met with a steep stack of large rocks that line the cliffs and a 100m drop to the ocean below.

Off to the eastern side of Rosetta Head sits this striking hollow rock, which forms a small shelter that echoes the shape of the Remarkable Rocks on nearby Kangaroo Island. For a while I had a plan to climb down with my camera at night to capture the Milky Way above. When I heard that the International Space Station was set to orbit over Victor Harbor on the 19th of August, 2020, I knew I had to incorporate the ISS in my Milky Way shot.

After hiking up to this spot and climbing down to the hollow rock, I set up my camera and start dialling in my settings. Climbing down to this spot is not recommended for the average hiker and it is especially not recommended when it starts to rain. 5 minutes into my planned 10 minute exposure, heavy rain clouds start to blow over the left of the frame. As I started to feel rain drops, I knew I needed to cut the exposure short and pack up my camera ASAP. After a quick rush to keep my gear dry and a few slips trying to climb back up the now wet and incredibly slippery rocks, I eventually made it back up to the dirt trail where I could then safely hike back to the car park.