A walk in the city on Queen's birthday day

Photos would speak for themselves I think...

This building was recently made at Federation Square in the name of Earth hour... It looked sooo ugly that I doubt it was that environmentally friendly...

Here we go!

Looks very energy efficent by drawing some artificial lighting.

Now lets celebrate earth hour by using more electricity !!!!

So many people cared about earth hour... errrr...

If you are blinded by eye patches, sure you dont need electricity!

This is how I celebrate my earth hour lol

Yes, cooking is more fun using gas instead of electricity. Green house effect is a good distraction for us.

This guy supposed to teach us how to use the funnel and flask to distill coffee ... It turns out some chemical reactions undesirable!

Yeah, C grade class event today in city.

Mmmm I love coffee...

Little Collins St

Lets drink some soup.

Portugese chicken soup - A little too normal...

Smoked bacon pea and zuccini soup

Cafe life is very relaxing...

Long lasting melody

The end

Kang Rice Wine - famous in Qing Dynasty

 

Just like the modern days, Kang is the powerful family that controls sale of salt, wine and sugar. It plays a major role in SilkRoad trade too. His family home is bigger than the size of forbidden city. The whole city like mansion is preserved till this day.

The sign says "Kang Hudred Million Wine" 

The words on sides of the door reads "There are all sorts of wine in the world" "Nothing beats the wine from Kang"

Linking Tom's Sign2

Wulai Waterfall, Taipei, Taiwan for Water H2O Thursday

 

Wulai Waterfall, situated in the verdant mountains of northern Taiwan, is a popular destination for both locals and travelers seeking a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of Taipei. Wulai is just outside the Taipei district, with easy access by rapid transport, making it an ideal day trip for those looking to immerse themselves in nature without venturing too far from the city.

During my visit, the weather was rather disappointing. It should have been sunny, but instead, the skies turned stormy intermittently. Despite the unpredictable showers, the sight of the waterfall cascading down the cliffs, surrounded by mist and lush greenery, created an almost mystical atmosphere that made the trip worthwhile.

One of the highlights of the Wulai region is its charming old street, where vendors sell an array of local delicacies. Among them, I particularly enjoyed the mountain pig sausage — a savory and smoky treat that perfectly complemented the rustic setting. The flavors, unique to this region, added a special touch to the experience.

Beyond the culinary delights, what makes Wulai so special is the easy access to nature. The towering trees, rushing river, and distant calls of wildlife provide a welcome escape from urban noises. As you wander through the trails and listen to the waterfall’s roar, you are reminded of how refreshing it is to step away from city life and reconnect with the natural world.

Though the weather did not fully cooperate, Wulai still left me with lasting impressions — a blend of scenic beauty, cultural flavor, and peaceful solitude that’s hard to find so close to a major metropolis.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Near Flagstaff station for Sign2

 

I am preparing for war game on my mobile phone. Self indulgence. So no more photowalk in city

Sony a7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

Kilcunda panorama for Sky Watch Friday

 

Kilcunda Beach offers a serene and breathtaking escape for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Known for its stunning vistas, rugged coastline, and diverse marine life, this idyllic destination is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Kilcunda Beach, located approximately 115 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, boasts expansive sandy shores that invite visitors to relax and unwind. The gentle waves lapping against the shore create a soothing soundtrack, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach's unique combination of rocky outcrops and sandy stretches provides a picturesque backdrop for photographers and artists.

One of the highlights of Kilcunda Beach is the Kilcunda Rail Trail, a scenic walking and cycling path that offers panoramic views of the coastline. The trail, which follows the route of an old railway line, provides an opportunity to explore the area's rich history while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds it. The iconic Kilcunda Trestle Bridge, a historic landmark along the trail, is a popular spot for taking in the stunning vistas and capturing memorable photographs.

Kilcunda Beach is also renowned for its rich marine life, making it a popular destination for fishing and snorkeling. The rock pools along the shoreline are teeming with diverse marine species, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. For those who enjoy fishing, the beach's clear waters provide an excellent opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including salmon, snapper, and trevally.

Linking Skywatch Friday

Shishamo BBQ

This photo was captured in the middle of Japan - Honshu where local vendor sells various local produce from the region.

I just want to make a note regarding a list of places I want to visit over the next few weeks in Melbourne.

1. Soft Tacos Chingon Cantina y Tanqueria - 413 Swan St, Richmond Ph 94295695

2. Meyer Lemon Tart - Albert St Food & Wine 382 Sydney rd Brunswick Ph 83546600

3. Aylesbury Duck Wayside Inn - 446 City Rd, South Melbourne Ph 9682 9199

Hosier Lane, Melbourne for Mural Monday

 

It has become a considerable challenge to discover commendable murals upon Hosier Lane in Melbourne. Numerous vagrant individuals now inhabit the byways. The murals I encountered were swiftly besmirched by graffiti within a mere week. I frequently observed tours proceeding along Hosier Lane, yet the countenances of the participants often bore expressions of fatigue and disinterest.

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Monday is Invasion Day. I gonna head out to photograph violence in city streets. 

Melbourne Night at Birrarung Marr

 

Just too many people in the city. After that long gig 2 nights ago, I am binge watching Lord of the Rings on Netflix instead. Such a tragic story to watch. 

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Near exhibition centre, Melbourne

Melbourne city night view

Spider in the garden for Eileen's Saturday Critter

 

This week is raining nonstop. I ended up having with dining spree with my friends. Quite a bonding experience. 

Photographing in the backyard is very convenient lol. 

Pentax A200mm f4 macro

Linking Saturday's Critter

Last night, I had some fine food at a city Japanese restaurant. I did meet a friend but my whole focus was enjoying the dishes off Ala Carte menu. 

I will be heading out with Joel for his birthday dinner tomorrow night. 

Pesgrave Place for Sign2

 

Joel had a craving for Uncle Tetsu Souffle in city. So we took a stroll in this alley for snapping something.

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

Melbourne Night City View as Treasure Tuesday

This is taken during a low tide at Brighton's beach. The night scenery is not bad.

Sony A7RIV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Treasure Tuesday

 

Abandoned Old Gillies Pie Factory in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Old Gillies Pie Factory in Bendigo, Victoria, stands as a testament to the city's rich industrial and culinary heritage. Established in the mid-20th century, this factory was once the heart of a thriving pie-making enterprise that left an indelible mark on the local community.

Origins and Growth

The Gillies Pies brand was founded by three brothers—Les, Alan, and Norm Gillies—who relocated from Charlton to Bendigo following the 1940s drought. They began their venture with a modest bakery on Mitchell Street, gradually expanding their operations to meet the growing demand for their delectable pies. In 1958, the brothers acquired the Black Swan Hotel building, transforming it into a mass production facility. This site would later become known as the Old Gillies Pie Factory.

Community Impact

The factory wasn't just a production site; it became a local institution. The "pie window" at Gillies Corner, their second shop, often saw queues of eager customers winding down the street, drawn by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pies. At its peak, Gillies Pies employed around 200 people, with retail outlets spreading across Victoria and distribution reaching as far as Melbourne.

Decline and Closure

Despite its success, the company faced challenges in the latter part of the 20th century. Operations eventually ceased, and the factory fell into disrepair, becoming a canvas for graffiti and a spot for urban explorers. In 2016, the last link to the iconic brand was severed when the remaining factory operations in Bendigo were shut down, marking the end of an era.

Preservation Efforts

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve the legacy of the Old Gillies Pie Factory. Local history enthusiasts have lobbied for the site's restoration, aiming to maintain its "naturally decrepit" state as a nod to its historical significance. These endeavors highlight the community's desire to honour and remember the factory's role in Bendigo's history.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Treasure Tuesday