Coming to you by storm

WEATHER is the topic of conversation in all aspects, especially in recent weeks as heatwaves and severe thunderstorms have impacted communities across the North East sparking plenty of discussion from locals. Local weather enthusiasts on all levels have enjoyed sitting outside their home or going for a short drive to view the recent lightning displays, many using a phone or camera to capture the weather phenomenon. Now, a rare opportunity for keen amateur skywatchers is coming up next month for those who have a passion for weather and wanting to embark on a unique journey. Wangaratta Chronicle photographer and professional storm chaser Kurt Hickling has been chasing storms for three decades and is offering a one-off opportunity to join his workshop on Sunday, March 2 at the Wangaratta RSL to share all things weather and encourage more locals to jump on board and learn the tools of the trade. Over the years Kurt has worked alongside meteorologist and Seven News weather presenter Jane Bunn and former Seven News weather presenter and senior meteorologist David Brown who have both been mentors for Kurt, fostering his passion and dedication for storm chasing, photography and the collecting of data for the Bureau of Meteorology. Kurt said the upcoming workshop will cater for all levels of experience and he hopes to see more locals catch the weather bug and venture out to capture that perfect photo. “After 30 years as a professional storm chaser, it is time to pass on the secrets and tricks of the trade to those who will be attending the upcoming workshop,” Mr Hickling said. “Storm chasing and extreme storm chasing is exactly like what you see in the movies, you are up close and personal with the wind, rain and lightning as you follow storms across the region, with your sensors on full alert and your adrenaline pumping. “Weather science and weather dynamics have always been a passion of mine and they take you on a continuous journey where you never stop learning. “The time is now to pass on what I have learnt to locals who have an interest or passion for extreme weather and the workshop will provide that opportunity. “Weather is very important to many locals, and gaining an understanding of basic meteorology and basic storm photography can really make a difference. "By combining that meteorological knowledge with knowing how to best capture images of lightning or other weather phenomena, once you have completed the workshop, you will be able to spend hours of enjoyment experiencing the weather as you have never done before as well as creating a long lasting record to share with others." Numbers to the workshop are limited so to book your place, contact Kurt on 0419 442 420 or go to his Facebook page Hickling Photography and leave a message.

Coming to you by storm

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