The coastal city of Darwin—capital of the Top End of Australia’s Northern Territory—is the backdrop to Melbourne-based photographer Abigail Varney’s ongoing series, “The Build-Up”.

"The term Build up refers to the transitional period between dry and wet seasons in Northern Australia. The coastal city of Darwin is the Capital of the Top End; the crocodiles are the Government-in-Waiting. Darwin’s warm wet tropical climate contrasts with the trademark hotter and drier to its south. Locals also refer to the Build-Up as Mango Madness. As the sunset fruit ripens Territorians experience emotional lability and mood swings, induced by an inexorable rise in heat and humidity. Global warming has possibly intensified these atmospheric conditions. Dark heavy clouds enhance and reflect the sombre mood; there is pessimism and melancholy towards our shared global future. The festive season carries on through this climatic and emotional flux. In sweaty resignation, the build-up: it comes with the Territory."