The image of Victoria's Mallee as a harsh and often unforgiving place is belied in a new book called 'The Mallee: A journey through north-west Victoria'.
Released at a time when the impact of the coronavirus and its attendant restrictions have seen many city folk wishing they were somewhere else, it provides some escape.
Taking two years to compile, the book was written by Adam McNicol, who grew up in Manangatang in the Mallee.
"Sharing stories that make this region so interesting, the photographers follow the historic train lines.," he said.
"They travelled through tiny towns, from Rainbow to Yaapeet; Beulah to Patchewollock; Morton Plains - near Birchip - and then headed north to Ouyen and west to Murrayville.
"Wycheproof, Kulwin, Barraport and Bannerton were not missed.
...Victoria's Mallee region is a truly fascinating place with a great story to tell
- Adam McNicol, author
"Also included are some of the silo art trails that pop-up through the desert and lush landscapes."
There are about 250 images in the book captured by photographers Andrew Chapman, Jaime Mercia, Melanie Faith Dove, Noel Butcher and Erin Jonasson.
It traverses through 75 towns and localities.
Mr McNicol said the book celebrated all things that make up the Mallee region.
He said it included a 'potted' history of the region, some of it's characters and the iconic landscapes and vistas that capture its essence
Now living in Ballarat, Mr McNicol was born and raised in the Mallee and - despite leaving for the bright lights of the city - says the region is still a key part of his identity.
His favorite place in the area remains his hometown of Manangatang.
The five photographers working on the book traveled individually to collect the images.
They followed the train lines, mostly going north-to-south like the sand hills that traverse that part of the state.
Photographer Erin Jonasson was born in suburban Melbourne and said it had been a privilege to take pictures of the red sand, salt lakes and never ending sky in the Mallee.
Photographer Noel Butcher said he was always an eastern suburbs boy, but his second favorite spot was Wycheproof in the Mallee because it had a 'mountain'.
The book is selling for $59.95 through www.tenbagpress.com.au
