Melbourne South Bank at night for Treasure Tuesday

 

It has been several years since my last visit to South Bank. I was pleased to discover a newly erected Ferris wheel, accompanied by a series of luminous installations that greatly appeal to photography enthusiasts. Of particular note is the splendid illumination of the surrounding architecture, which lends the precinct an enchanting ambiance after dusk and offers ample opportunity for artistic expression.

South Bank, situated along the southern banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne, is one of the city’s most vibrant cultural and recreational precincts. Once an industrial area, it has undergone a remarkable transformation into a bustling hub of art, dining, and entertainment. The promenade is lined with world-class restaurants, lively cafés, and luxury hotels, drawing both locals and visitors who seek to experience Melbourne’s cosmopolitan charm. Notably, the Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria, both iconic institutions, contribute to the area’s reputation as a cultural heart of the city.

In recent years, South Bank has seen the addition of new attractions, further enhancing its appeal. A striking Ferris wheel now graces the skyline, offering panoramic views of Melbourne and the Yarra River. At night, the precinct comes alive with a symphony of light—installations and architectural lighting casting a glow upon the buildings and walkways, creating a picturesque setting ideal for evening strolls and photographic pursuits. The thoughtful illumination of structures such as the Eureka Tower and surrounding facades adds an elegant brilliance to the cityscape, reflecting beautifully on the river’s surface.

South Bank is more than a destination; it is an experience that seamlessly blends the arts, leisure, and modern urban design. Its well-maintained promenades, proximity to the Central Business District, and integration of natural and man-made beauty make it a cornerstone of Melbourne’s identity. Whether one visits to enjoy a theatrical performance, dine by the river, or capture the interplay of light and architecture through a camera lens, South Bank offers a timeless and ever-evolving canvas that embodies the spirit of Melbourne.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Central Signs for Sign2

 

Melbourne Central is more than just a shopping destination; it's a melting pot of culture, fashion, and urban life, right in the heart of Melbourne. Here’s why you should make it your next stop:

1. Diverse Shopping Experience: From high-end fashion boutiques to quirky independent stores, Melbourne Central offers an eclectic mix of retailers. You can find the latest trends, unique local designs, and everything in between.

2. Culinary Delights: Craving some delicious food? Melbourne Central boasts a plethora of dining options. Whether it's a quick coffee at a cozy café, a gourmet meal at a swanky restaurant, or street food from around the world, your taste buds are in for a treat.

3. Historical Significance: Did you know that Melbourne Central is home to the iconic Coop's Shot Tower? This historic landmark, encased in a modern glass dome, adds a touch of historical charm to the contemporary setting.

4. Art and Entertainment: Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene with the many public art installations and murals scattered throughout the center. Plus, with regular events, pop-up markets, and live performances, there's always something exciting happening.

5. Convenient Accessibility: Located in the CBD, Melbourne Central is easily accessible by public transport. Whether you're commuting by train, tram, or bus, getting there is a breeze.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign 2

Abandoned Papermill Factory in Fairfield, Melbourne for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Rise and Fall of the Fairfield Paper Mill: A Forgotten Industrial Giant in Melbourne

Situated in the northeastern suburb of Alphington—often associated with Fairfield—the abandoned paper mill stands as a silent monument to Melbourne’s industrial past. Officially known as the Alphington Paper Mill, this sprawling site once played a crucial role in Australia’s paper manufacturing industry. From its establishment in the early 20th century to its eventual decline and transformation, the paper mill reflects both the city’s economic evolution and the changing values of urban development.

Foundations of Industry

The origins of the Alphington Paper Mill date back to August 1918, when Australian Paper Manufacturers (APM) acquired a tract of land known as “Woodlands” in Alphington. Over the next two years, approximately 1.2 million bricks were laid to construct the facility, and in 1921, the mill officially opened its doors. It quickly became a centerpiece of industrial productivity, marking a new chapter in Australia’s ability to produce paper on a large scale.

The facility saw significant expansion in the 1930s. Notable developments included the installation of a 15-ton turbogenerator in 1932, which provided much-needed power to support growing operations. Additional investments in 1937 further solidified the mill’s position as a leader in Australian manufacturing. A particularly distinctive architectural addition came in 1954 with the construction of the Boiler House, designed by Mussen, Mackay, and Potter. Its curtain wall design was among the first of its kind in Melbourne, symbolizing a new era of modern industrial architecture.

Operations and Community Impact

The paper mill’s influence extended far beyond its towering structures. A dedicated railway siding—known as the APM Siding—was established in 1919, connecting the mill to regional and national rail networks. Coal was delivered daily to fuel the facility’s massive boilers, and finished paper products were efficiently shipped out, supporting industries and consumers across the country.

For decades, the mill provided stable employment for hundreds of local residents, embedding itself into the economic and social fabric of the Alphington and Fairfield communities. Families grew up around the hum of the mill’s machines, and its presence shaped the daily rhythms of life in the area.

Closure and Redevelopment

However, the new millennium brought with it winds of change. In 2008, Amcor—APM’s successor—announced plans to close the mill as part of a strategy to consolidate manufacturing operations in Sydney. The announcement marked the end of an era and signaled a significant loss for the local workforce, with around 90 employees affected by the closure.

Paper and board production ceased by 2012, and in 2013, the site was sold to a consortium of developers. Plans were set in motion to transform the disused industrial complex into a vibrant residential and commercial precinct. Today, the redevelopment envisions a mix of housing, shops, office spaces, and community facilities—an urban village rising from the mill’s industrial bones.

Heritage, Memory, and the Future

Despite its cultural and architectural significance, the Fairfield Paper Mill has not been immune to the pressures of modern development. Heritage advocates pushed to preserve structures like the Boiler House, but in 2017, the decision was made not to grant it official protection. The building was ultimately demolished, making way for new construction.

Still, the legacy of the Alphington Paper Mill lives on. For older residents, it remains a symbol of Melbourne’s industrious past. For newer generations, it serves as a case study in the balance between preservation and progress. While the physical remnants of the mill may have faded, its story continues to shape the character of the community and the land it once occupied.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Silver Eye for Saturday Critter

The silvereye (Zosterops lateralis), also known as the white-eye, is a small, distinctive bird with a ring of white feathers around its eyes, hence the name. This petite bird, measuring just 11 to 13 centimeters in length, is a common sight in Melbourne's gardens, parks, and bushlands. Its adaptability and varied diet make it a resilient and successful species in urban environments.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

The silvereye is native to Australia and New Zealand, with its presence widely noted across the southeastern regions of the Australian mainland, Tasmania, and the islands of the South Pacific. In Melbourne, the silvereye thrives in both natural and urban landscapes, from dense forests to suburban backyards. Their adaptability to different environments is key to their survival, allowing them to coexist alongside human populations.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior

Silvereyes are easily recognizable by their olive-green upperparts, grey underparts, and the conspicuous white ring around their eyes. They have a slender, slightly curved bill, which aids in their varied diet. These birds are highly sociable, often seen in flocks, which helps in foraging and protection against predators.

During the breeding season, which typically runs from August to January, silvereyes build small, cup-shaped nests in dense foliage. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks, which fledge about ten days after hatching. This collaborative approach ensures high survival rates for their offspring.

Diet and Foraging

The silvereye's diet is diverse, consisting of insects, fruit, nectar, and small seeds. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in the ecosystem, as they help in pollination and seed dispersal. In Melbourne, silvereyes are often seen flitting around gardens, feeding on native plants like eucalyptus and bottlebrush, as well as exotic species such as berry bushes and fruit trees.

Adaptability and Urban Living

One of the remarkable traits of the silvereye is its ability to adapt to urban environments. In Melbourne, they have adjusted well to changes brought about by human development. They are often observed in public parks, gardens, and even city centers, taking advantage of the food sources provided by ornamental plants and residential gardens.

The presence of silvereyes in urban areas also highlights the importance of creating bird-friendly environments in cities. Planting native flora, providing water sources, and ensuring safe nesting sites can help support these birds and enhance biodiversity within urban settings.

Sony A7RV + FE 200-600mm f5.6-6.3

Linking Saturday Critter

Back Beach at Mornington Peninsula, Melbourne, Australia

 

Back beach is about 72km long along Mornington Peninsula. It is about 150km out of Melbourne but still getting classified as a Melbourne suburb. Some said Melbourne is similar to Los Angeles in US. It has a wide span really.

Love long exposure. Here we go, another "unnatural" photo. 

Sony A7RIV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Photos of Mornington Peninsula

Heliophorus epicles spotted in Melbourne for Saturday Critter

 

The Purple Sapphire butterfly (Heliophorus epicles), primarily found in Asia, has been recorded in regions such as the Himalayas, Myanmar, and southern Yunnan. In Australia, the subspecies Heliophorus epicles latilimbata has been noted, though sightings in Melbourne are rare and unusual, as this species typically inhabits tropical and subtropical forests at elevations between 600 to 2,100 meters. The butterfly's wings are dark brown with blue and red markings, with males showcasing blue patches on the forewings and females having orange-red zigzag lines on their hindwings. While Heliophorus epicles is not native to Melbourne, any confirmed sightings in the area would be of significant interest to entomologists.

Pentax K20D

A 200mm f4 Macro

This is linking Saturday Critter

South Melbourne Mural for Mural Monday

 

South Melbourne outside Port of Melbourne Market

Wok fire art

Panasonic G9 

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

Linking Mural Monday

Hyaline Grass Bug in Melbourne for Saturday Critter

 

📸 Macro Marvel: Liorhyssus Hyalinus in Melbourne! 🦟

Captured this stunning macro shot of the Liorhyssus hyalinus, also known as the Hyaline Grass Bug, on the wall in Melbourne. The intricate details of its body and the vibrant colors are truly mesmerizing. 

Liorhyssus hyalinus is a fascinating plant bug, often found on various grasses and plants. Its transparent wings and distinctive markings make it a favorite subject for macro photographers.

Pentax  K20D

Voigtlander 125mm f2.5 Macro

Linking Saturday Critter

Having completed the final season of Cobra Kai in one uninterrupted viewing session, I observed that the young characters' movements are rather slow, and the fight sequences appear somewhat amateurish. Nevertheless, the show possesses an undeniably captivating quality that renders it irresistibly addictive.

Melbourne North sunrise for Eileen's sky watch Friday

 

Just in time coming back to Melbourne stormy weather. A nice stormy weather before sunrise in Melbourne North. 

There are 1 giga of travel photos in my hard disc. I gonna process them gradually over time. Funny that I received a call from my good pal for a nice Japanese dinner in the city. It is true that friends are older the better. I miss the home feeling. 

Sony A7RIV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Abandoned Bradmill Factory, Yarraville, Melbourne for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Bradmill factory, located in Yarraville, Melbourne, has a storied history that spans over seven decades. Established in 1927 as Bradford Cotton Mills in Sydney, the company expanded its operations to Victoria in 19402. By the late 1950s, a new factory was built on Francis Street in Yarraville, and the company rebranded as Bradmill.

At its peak, Bradmill was the largest producer of textiles in Australia, known for its innovative denim production. The factory produced an astounding 36 million square meters of cotton denim annually, enough to wrap the globe. Bradmill's products were renowned for their durability and strength, finding their way into various products, from fire hoses and deck chairs to tents and tarpaulins.

The factory was a hub of ceaseless activity, employing thousands of workers and integrating cutting-edge technologies. Despite facing challenges such as increased competition and inflation in the 1980s, Bradmill thrived on innovation. The company ventured into new export markets and developed pioneering products, attracting global attention.

Bradmill's success was not just due to its technological advancements but also its inclusive and vibrant community. The factory employed a diverse workforce of over 30 nationalities, fostering a culture of unity and warmth. Employees shared lunches, participated in music, sports, and outings, creating cherished memories and lifelong friendships.

However, the rise of global competition and changing market dynamics eventually led to the factory's closure in 2001. Despite its closure, the legacy of Bradmill lives on through urban explorers, artists, and reunions that keep its spirit alive. The site has now been transformed into a new community, Bradmill Yarraville, built on the foundations of this iconic Australian institution.

The Bradmill factory's history is a testament to the power of innovation, community, and resilience. It remains a cherished part of Melbourne's industrial heritage, inspiring future generations with its story of excellence and togetherness.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Treasure Tuesday

The rest of the photographs are in this album Abandoned Bradmill

After enduring several hectic days at the clinic, Joel, too, faced a particularly challenging Monday. Consequently, we engaged in an extended conversation before retiring for the night, which proved to be an excellent opportunity to alleviate our frustrations.

Hofbräuhaus Melbourne - German pub in city CBD

 

Hofbräuhaus Melbourne is the iconic location that serves black beer and pork sausages. My Jewish pal loves the location very much that I always get dragged here for his feast. 

The vibe at night is always something special. Maybe it is because the place carries so much memory in it.

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

Other Melbourne posts

Sydney Lunar Park at night for Treasure Tuesday

 

I have visited Sydney on numerous occasions, as is common for many Australians. My travels to the city have largely been for professional purposes, primarily attending conferences. In earlier years, I would often confine myself to the sterile interiors of hotel rooms, sustaining myself on provisions purchased from nearby supermarkets, venturing little into the urban sprawl beyond.

However, my perspective on cities such as Sydney and Melbourne—so often dismissed as soulless concrete jungles—began to shift a few years ago. I came to appreciate them not merely as landscapes of steel and stone, but as living theatres of culture. I developed a fondness for photographing their architecture, their people, and the fleeting moments that give life to the metropolis.

On a recent visit during the Vivid Sydney festival, I made a point to attend Luna Park—an iconic amusement park that dates back to 1935, nestled at the foot of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. This historic park, with its whimsical Art Deco facade and famous smiling face entrance, has long been a fixture of Sydney’s shoreline. Though it had often been closed during my previous visits, its gates were open on weekend evenings for the duration of the festival. Encouraged by the opportunity, I purchased my ticket in advance and resolved to explore its grounds.

Regrettably, my experience at the entrance was far from pleasant. The staff tasked with managing entry proved disorganised, and their conduct was discourteous and inattentive. The queue stretched the entire length of the wharf, winding beside the harbour. Upon finally entering the park, I found myself captivated not by the amusements, but by the sight of young performers dressed in resplendent carnival fashion—evocative of an era I have only seen through the lens of old cinema. There was a glamour to their attire that delighted me as a photographer and observer of human expression.

I chose to forgo the rides, many of which appeared both uninspiring and, frankly, of questionable safety. However, my visit took an unfortunate turn when I was abruptly approached by security personnel demanding a wrist identification band—an item I had not received at the gate, despite possessing a valid ticket with barcode. Their accusatory tone and my subsequent escort to the front gate to rectify the error left me feeling humiliated and unjustly treated. It was a sobering reminder of how poorly systems of order and hospitality can sometimes serve paying guests.

Despite this, a moment of joy emerged as I passed through a corridor ominously referred to as the "clown lane." The clowns—grotesque in design, with a macabre charm—might have unsettled others, but I found the absurdity delightful. I laughed aloud as I snapped photographs, grateful for having brought my 14mm f/1.8 lens, which allowed me to capture vivid images even in low light.

Joel, for his part, does not share my enthusiasm for such spectacles (he decided not to come from Melbourne), and so I ventured to Luna Park alone. In hindsight, while the experience was marred by poor management, it nonetheless offered a glimpse into the layered strangeness and splendour of Sydney’s cultural life—a city more nuanced than its concrete shell might suggest.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Jail Ceiling

This is Melbourne Jail taken a while back. Fish eye view can add some interest to the frame.

Pesgrave Place Signs at Melbourne for Sign2

 

Some more Melbourne Street scenes

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

p.s. Joel and I are heading interstate to Adelaide from tomorrow til Sunday. So there may be hit and miss with posting and commenting

Altona house abandoned, Melbourne

 

I am planning to post a series of abandoned urbex photos around Melbourne. It is not everyone's cup of tea; it is something to document my journey in this genre. 

Sony A7RIV

Laowa 9mm f5.6 

This is linking to Sunday Best

Abandoned in Castlemaine