While a plethora of websites and apps have popped up to predict when you're likely to see the Aurora Australis, the reality is the timing is still largely unknown.

This is because these colourful lights occur just like their northern counterparts: when fully charged particles burst from the sun, creating a solar wind that's then drawn to the earth's north and south poles. As the particles interact with these magnetic fields they produce energy that's released in the form of auroras.

Here, Mother Nature is very much in control, but when she puts on her show, the results are truly spectacular.

While you can certainly catch this dramatic display throughout the year, it's the depths of winter, when the sky is inky and clear that you're likely to catch the best shows.

The trick is to find a place away from artificial light, and the further south you go the better the results.

While it's possible to see the lights with the naked eye, it's using a camera that the full spectacular is on display.

Seen with the naked eye the light appears to be flickering white across the sky; however, using a camera set on a long exposure you'll capture the full breadth of the colour that we can't see.

Here, the sky comes to life, all swirling blues and purples, wild strokes of pink and intermingling greens. Watching the light dance across Tasmania's inky sky is a sight worth chasing out during any winter adventure.