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Poh Ling Yeow Stuns in the Northern Territory for Iconic Australian Women’s Weekly Christmas Cover

The Australian Women’s Weekly has unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 Christmas issue, featuring the ever-inspiring Poh Ling Yeow gracing the cover in a dazzling photoshoot set against the breathtaking landscapes of the Northern Territory’s Red Centre.

Shot at the picturesque Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve and Simpsons Gap in Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, just outside Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the cover marks the first time the magazine has ventured to the Outback for its festive edition. The result? A visual masterpiece that captures the spirit of Australia’s iconic landscapes.

A Personal Journey for Poh

For Poh, the experience was profoundly moving. Reflecting on the shoot, she said, “It was a real pinch-me moment to be shooting the cover of such an iconic magazine – one that I grew up loving – in such a beautiful and unique setting. I love the Northern Territory, and to shoot in two Red Centre locations that I’d never been to before really was the stuff of dreams.”

The shoot also carried emotional significance for Poh, who wore her late mother’s jewelry during the session at Rainbow Valley. “You have such visceral, spiritual reactions to so many locations in the Northern Territory that extend beyond its incredible natural beauty. When we shot at Rainbow Valley, I felt really close to her. She loved fashion and would have been thrilled to see me doing such an amazing shoot for her favorite magazine.”

Bringing the Vision to Life

Sophie Tedmanson, Editor of The Australian Women’s Weekly, described the project as a bold endeavor that exceeded expectations.

“Our Christmas issue is always a highlight, but this year’s NT shoot was truly something special. Taking the cover to such an extraordinary location was ambitious, but the stunning Red Centre landscapes, vibrant colors, and Poh’s incredible energy brought our vision to life beautifully,” she said.

Transporting over 250kg of gear and exquisite gowns to the remote Red Centre was no small feat. “The team embraced the challenge to create something unforgettable. It’s a celebration of Australia’s diverse communities and breathtaking landscapes,” Tedmanson added.

The shoot also honored the Traditional Owners of the land, with special thanks to the Upper Southern Arrernte people of Wurre (Rainbow Valley) and Central Arrernte people of Rungutjirpa (Simpsons Gap), who supported the project.

The Perfect Backdrops

Rainbow Valley’s striking sandstone cliffs and Simpsons Gap’s majestic rock formations bathed in golden sunlight provided the ideal settings for the festive shoot. Seasonal wildflowers added an extra touch of magic to the already awe-inspiring locations. Both locations are easily accessible from Alice Springs, with Rainbow Valley an hour’s drive and Simpsons Gap just 20 minutes away.

Showcasing Local Talent and Craftsmanship

The shoot also spotlighted the work of local artists, with Poh wearing stunning red inniti seed earrings by Ann Cleary-Farrell from Alice Springs-based Tjanpi Desert Weavers.

“We’re so proud to see Ann Cleary-Farrell’s incredible earrings featured alongside Poh in this shoot. It’s a celebration of Anangu women’s talent and creativity,” said the Tjanpi Desert Weavers.

A Festive TV Special

The magic of the shoot extends beyond the pages of the magazine. Scenes were also filmed for the upcoming Christmas with The Australian Women’s Weekly TV special, airing on 10 and 10 Play on Tuesday, 10 December at 7.30pm. Hosted by Sarah Harris from The Project, the show will feature Poh alongside The Weekly’s team, including Sophie Tedmanson, and a special MasterChef Australia reunion with Poh and Julie Goodwin.

A Festive Celebration of the Northern Territory

Tourism NT played a key role in supporting the project, with Chief Marketing Officer Tony Quarmby highlighting the synergy between Poh, The Weekly, and the Red Centre’s epic landscapes.

“We were thrilled to collaborate with The Weekly for this special cover. Poh’s passion for the Northern Territory shines through, and this shoot beautifully showcases the region’s natural beauty,” Quarmby said.

Available Now

The Australian Women’s Weekly 2024 Christmas issue, featuring Poh Ling Yeow’s stunning Red Centre shoot, is available on newsstands now. For more information about Rainbow Valley, Simpsons Gap, and the Northern Territory’s Red Centre, visit northernterritory.com.

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