Rone's Mural in Fitzroy Melbourne for Mural Monday

 

Rone: Street Artist of Elegance and Decay in Fitzroy, Melbourne

Rone, the pseudonym of Tyrone Wright, is one of Melbourne’s most renowned street artists, celebrated internationally for his hauntingly beautiful portraits of women that grace crumbling walls and forgotten spaces. His murals evoke a compelling contrast between beauty and decay—a central theme that has come to define his aesthetic. Nowhere is this more evocatively expressed than in the streets of Fitzroy, Melbourne’s cradle of bohemian culture and urban creativity.

In Fitzroy, Rone’s work is woven into the very fabric of the suburb. His large-scale murals typically depict elegant female faces rendered with painterly precision—eyes soft, melancholic, and distant, as though they belong to fading memories of another time. These portraits often occupy weathered surfaces, where peeling paint and exposed brick are not flaws but integral elements of the work, symbolising impermanence and the quiet erosion of beauty by time.

One of Rone’s most famous Fitzroy murals was painted on the side of the Young Husband Wool Store, and another memorable piece graced a wall along Napier Street. Though some of his Fitzroy works have since disappeared—painted over, demolished, or reclaimed by the environment—their spirit lingers in photos, archives, and in the visual memory of the community. These transient masterpieces underscore one of Rone’s key messages: beauty is fleeting, and so is the space it occupies.

Rone’s Fitzroy murals are more than art; they are monuments to emotion, atmosphere, and the tension between urban life and artistic stillness. In a city constantly changing, his work offers a quiet pause—inviting passersby to stop, feel, and remember.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Ink Caps at Mount Macedon for Sunday Best

 

This photograph was taken during one of my regular excursions to Mount Macedon, a place I frequent for contemplative walks through its verdant woodlands. These foraging wanderings are a source of quiet delight, offering both the invigorating freshness of the forest air and the opportunity to encounter nature’s hidden curiosities—among them, the delicate and often overlooked ink cap mushrooms.

The specimens depicted appear to belong to the Coprinopsis or Coprinellus genus, commonly known as ink caps. These fungi are distinguished by their slender stems and conical to bell-shaped caps, often bearing a dusky sheen when moist. They thrive on decaying wood and forest detritus, emerging in clusters after rain or during periods of high humidity. One of their most striking characteristics is their tendency to deliquesce: as the mushroom matures, the cap begins to liquefy, transforming into a dark, inky fluid—hence their common name.

Among the various species, Coprinopsis atramentaria, also known as the Common Ink Cap or Tippler’s Bane, is notable for its chemical interaction with alcohol; when consumed in conjunction with alcohol, it can cause adverse reactions due to the presence of coprine. Others, such as Coprinellus disseminatus, form large, fairy-tale-like colonies across mossy logs and stumps, yet do not deliquesce.

Though some ink caps are considered edible when young and properly identified, their ephemeral nature and potential for toxicity demand caution. For the mindful forager, however, they remain a fascinating subject of study—ephemeral, mysterious, and exquisitely transient.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm f2.8 Macro

Linking Sunday Best

Eastern Long Snake Necked Turtle for Saturday Critter

 

This photograph, too, hails from a bygone era—captured over thirty years ago at Healesville Sanctuary, by the edge of a tranquil pond. It is difficult to fathom that such richness of colour and remarkable clarity could be achieved with a digital SLR of such vintage. The image stands as a quiet testament to the enduring capabilities of early digital photography, as well as to the attentive eye behind the lens.

The true subject of the photograph is a native freshwater turtle, most likely the Eastern Long-necked Turtle (Chelodina longicollis), a species commonly found in the wetlands, rivers, and billabongs of southeastern Australia, including the sanctuary grounds at Healesville. With its distinctive serpentine neck—often as long as its shell—this turtle has long fascinated naturalists and casual observers alike. When threatened, it emits a pungent musk from its glands, earning it the colloquial name "stinker."

In this image, the turtle appears either basking or gliding just beneath the surface, its smooth carapace catching the light, revealing details lost to the hurried eye. These turtles are an essential part of the aquatic ecosystem, feeding on insects, small fish, and carrion, and contributing to the balance of the watery habitats they call home.

To think that this moment—quiet, ordinary, and now distant—was captured so vividly with the technology of the time is both humbling and wondrous. It reminds us of the enduring value of patient observation and the rich natural heritage preserved within sanctuaries such as Healesville.

Pentax K10D 

Pentax 300mm f2.8 

Linking Saturday Critter

Pulpit Rock in cloudy sky for Skywatch Friday

 

I have shared numerous photographs from this region. Pulpit Rock, a striking natural formation at Cape Schanck on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, bears a resemblance to a phallic symbol. This prominent geological feature is composed primarily of basalt, formed from ancient volcanic activity approximately 20 million years ago during the Miocene epoch. The rock stands as a testament to the region’s turbulent geological past, where successive lava flows cooled and solidified, creating the rugged coastline that defines Cape Schanck today.

In this particular image, the golden hour’s enchanting light is absent, replaced instead by an overcast sky. The green algae carpeting the foreground emerges as the principal feature, adding a vibrant contrast against the dark basalt. These algae thrive in the intertidal zones of the rocky shore, contributing to the complex coastal ecosystem by providing nourishment and habitat for a variety of marine life.

The air was chill, and Joel was unwilling to remain for long. During our visit, we observed a young boy of Indian descent nearly swept from the precarious rocks and into the sea—a stark reminder of the power of the ocean at this exposed headland. Pulpit Rock and its surrounding cliffs are constantly shaped by relentless waves and winds, making it a site of both breathtaking beauty and inherent natural danger.

Sony A7RV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Sky watch Friday

Bridgewater Bay Blairgowrie for Water H2O Thursday

 

There has been scarcely any significant low tide in recent months along this stretch of coast. Thus, I seized a brief moment to capture a photograph from the stairway, looking down toward the shore. Nearby, one of the sand cliffs has given way, its collapse engulfing the entire shoreline beneath a shroud of earth and debris.

This took place at Bridgewater Bay, situated in Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula, south of Melbourne. Renowned for its rugged coastal beauty, Bridgewater Bay features sweeping limestone cliffs, secluded rock pools, and crescent-shaped sands that are accessible only during favourable tides. In calmer times, its natural amphitheatre and tidal platforms attract walkers and beachcombers alike. Yet nature’s forces here are ever at play — carving, shaping, and at times overwhelming the very landscape they adorn.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Hay St Market Signs for Sign2

 

Hay Street Market, once a bustling hub of local trade and cultural exchange, now bears more resemblance to a modern-day food court. Situated in the heart of Sydney's Chinatown, the area was historically known for its vibrant produce stalls, specialty grocers, and merchants who reflected the multicultural tapestry of the city. It was a place where fresh goods, traditional herbs, and authentic Asian delicacies brought the community together.

In contemporary times, however, the market has undergone a notable transformation. Surrounding the precinct are an array of souvenir shops, many offering mass-produced trinkets—magnets, toys, and keepsakes bearing the ubiquitous stamp of "Made in China." The once-proud market stalls now compete with the encroaching tide of commercial tourism.

And so, with a touch of irony and nostalgia, we remark: Here they are—the signs. A subtle nod to the market’s evolution, marking a shift from local authenticity to a more touristic fare.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

JimmyRum Distillery visit in Mornington Peninsula for Treasure Tuesday

 

During an outing arranged by Joel, we visited the JimmyRum distillery—a distinctive venue in Dromana on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula, known as the region’s first dedicated craft rum distillery. Established with the vision of introducing Australians to a refined appreciation of rum, JimmyRum has since gained a reputation for its inventive small-batch creations and a relaxed coastal ambience.

Upon our arrival, however, we found ourselves unattended for nearly half an hour, seemingly overlooked amidst the flurry of larger rum-tasting tour groups. We very nearly departed in disappointment, until a courteous gentleman eventually welcomed us and offered us a seat, inviting us to wait a little longer.

We partook in their curated rum tastings—Joel selected the extravagant set, while I opted for the fruit-based selection. Despite our differing preferences, we curiously settled on the same bottle to take home: a coffee-flavoured rum, which was not at all what we had initially anticipated. Regrettably, the finer expressions we truly desired proved beyond our budget. Nevertheless, the accompanying cheese balls were delightfully paired, their richness harmonising beautifully with the spiced warmth of the rum.

What began with some hesitation concluded in a most spirited and memorable experience, a testament to the allure and conviviality that JimmyRum has come to embody.

Sony A7RV

FE 16mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Bar Mural in St Kilda Melbourne for Mural Monday

 

The magnificent mural depicting a giant bat with richly textured wings and dreamlike imagery is most assuredly Release the Bats, a work by the accomplished Australian artist Hayden Dewar. Completed in August 2023 under the commission of the Port Phillip Council, the mural adorns the wall at 6 Belford Street in St Kilda, Melbourne. Dewar, known for his vivid visual storytelling and imaginative use of colour and form, has here rendered a surreal grey-headed flying fox soaring through a vibrant landscape interwoven with motifs drawn from the local environment—native flora, references to Luna Park, the surrounding live music culture, and the coastal charm of St Kilda.

Joel and I had come to the area that day for an Italian luncheon and, by happy fortune, managed to secure a rare parking space nearby. The artwork, set against the bright tones of the streetscape, provided an unexpected and captivating visual delight—its fantastical scale and layered symbolism leaving a lasting impression.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Mushroom at Lake Sanitarium in Mount Macedon for Sunday Best

 

Returning to the same spot each year yields the familiar sight of mushrooms—unchanged in form, yet ever transformed by the shifting light and atmosphere. It is a quiet pleasure to observe and capture their delicate textures through the lens of a macro camera, where each detail is magnified and newly appreciated. At Mount Macedon, where the air is almost perpetually damp and the mists linger among the trees, the forest floor remains a fertile haven for fungi. The endemic weather—cool, wet, and cloaked in a veil of fog—imbues the landscape with a subdued beauty, making each photographic outing a contemplative and rewarding pursuit.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm f2.8 Macro

Linking Sunday Best

Of late, I have been viewing the series Naked and Afraid: Last One Standing, which piqued my curiosity regarding the distinction between the nyala and the impala, both of which are frequently mentioned or encountered in such wilderness settings. Compelled by this interest, I sought further understanding through study and inquiry.

The impala is a slender, graceful antelope renowned for its agility and speed, commonly found across the savannas and light woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. It bears a reddish-brown coat, with males distinguished by their lyre-shaped, ridged horns. Social in nature, impalas are often seen in large herds and rely on their swiftness to evade predators.

In contrast, the nyala is a more reclusive and strikingly patterned antelope, typically inhabiting dense bushlands and thickets, particularly in southern Africa. Males are darker in colour—deep brown to slate grey—with prominent vertical white stripes, spiral horns, and a shaggy appearance marked by a mane and white facial markings. Females and juveniles, by contrast, are lighter in hue and more modestly adorned.

Thus, while both species are antelopes of the African wild, they differ notably in habitat, temperament, and physical characteristics—the impala embodying fleet elegance in open terrain, and the nyala exuding quiet dignity in the shelter of the bush.

Jungle Babbler (Argya striata) for Saturday Critter

 

The image, captured many years ago with an early-generation digital camera, may well have been part of an informal experiment with my cherished collection of Pentax lenses. At the time, I was testing their optical clarity and rendering in natural light. The subject—serendipitously chosen or perhaps fatefully encountered—was none other than the Jungle Babbler (Argya striata), a bird of considerable charm and quiet dignity.

Native to the Indian subcontinent, the Jungle Babbler is most often observed in sociable clusters, earning it the endearing epithet of “Seven Sisters.” Its plumage, a soft and subtly variegated grey-brown, carries a fine, layered texture reminiscent of brushed velvet. The bird’s eye, pale and unblinking, holds a gaze both inquisitive and reserved, while its slightly decurved bill—sturdy and dark—is well-suited to its foraging habits among leaf litter and low shrubs.

Though common in its range, the Jungle Babbler possesses an understated beauty, particularly evident in close observation. The photograph, though unassuming in origin, managed to capture the delicacy of its feather arrangement and the quiet expressiveness of its face. It stands now as a quiet testament to the capabilities of those fine Pentax optics—and to the enduring grace of this often-overlooked avian companion.

Pentax K10D

A 300mm f2.8 

Linking Saturday Critter

Grantville Jetty Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Grantville lies not far from Tenby Point, and it was this proximity that led Joel and me to visit—drawn, curiously enough, by a singular souvlaki shop, notable for being operated by Greeks rather than the more common Chinese proprietors. The lamb served here is remarkably succulent, richly complemented by a garlicky parsley sauce that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Just behind the modest establishment stands the town's jetty, offering a quiet vista over the water. Thus, our visit served a dual purpose—culinary and contemplative—allowing us, as the saying goes, to kill two birds with one stone.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Tenby Point, Gippsland for Water H2O Thursday

 

Tenby Point is but a modest township situated on the fringe of metropolitan Melbourne. Access to the beach lies discreetly beside the rear gate of a local residence, with space for merely two vehicles. The area is best approached during low tide, for the path leads across muddy flats rather than firm sand. The seabed itself is composed entirely of soft, viscous sludge—mud that I invariably carry into Joel’s car. For this reason, we seldom visit during summer. Instead, we favour the winter months, when the weather deters us from venturing far afield, and proximity becomes a comfort.

The aged pylons that rise solemnly from the tide are favoured subjects for photography. There is, I believe, a quiet significance to our collective urge to document them—perhaps a longing to preserve a vestige of a bygone era, or a reverence for the passage of time made manifest in timber and tide.

Presently, I am soon to commence another locum shift in regional Victoria—a favour rendered to a friend. Consequently, my blog may, on occasion, fall silent for a day or two, owing to the unpredictable demands of being on call at a country hospital. I only hope this venture does not once again lead me down the path of indulgence and weight gain, as such postings sometimes do.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Martin Place Sydney Signs for Sign2

 

Many of the buildings and interiors bore a striking resemblance to those found in Melbourne. At times, I found myself reflecting on how modern cities, despite their geographic distances and cultural distinctions, often share a uniformity in design and atmosphere. The steel and glass façades, the sleek minimalist interiors, and the ubiquitous presence of international retail chains contribute to a certain sameness that transcends borders. It is as though the identity of place is increasingly shaped by global architectural trends rather than local character. One might wander from one metropolis to another and, for a fleeting moment, forget which city they are truly in.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

West Gate Park Melbourne for Treasure Tuesday

 

We had initially set our sights on Sandridge Bridge, intending to capture the city skyline at sunset. Much to our surprise and disappointment, the entire area had been cordoned off, denying us access. Undeterred, we sought an alternative vantage point that might render the excursion worthwhile. We turned our course towards Westgate Park, only to discover that it too was undergoing extensive construction works—an added frustration.

Nonetheless, perseverance led us to a suitable spot from which to photograph the twilight. The gentle hues of dusk, softened by the encroaching night, provided some consolation.

Westgate Park itself, situated along the banks of the Yarra River beneath the West Gate Bridge, has long served as a haven for birdlife and city dwellers alike. Once a barren expanse of industrial wasteland, it was transformed during the 1980s as part of Melbourne’s urban greening initiatives. The park is especially known for its striking pink lake—a seasonal natural phenomenon caused by the proliferation of salt-loving algae under specific climatic conditions.

The current redevelopment seeks to enhance visitor access, restore native habitats, and improve ecological sustainability. Though temporarily inaccessible, it promises to return as an even more vibrant urban refuge.

Our evening concluded at a nearby Japanese restaurant, where we sought comfort in freshly pan-fried gyoza. Joel, in high spirits, treated himself to a small carafe of sake—rounding off a day that, though unplanned in its course, retained its moments of charm and reward.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Fitzroy Mural in Melbourne for Mural Monday

 

This mural is situated within a narrow laneway in Fitzroy, Melbourne, now heavily adorned with layers of graffiti and street art. Once a standalone piece, it has since become part of the ever-evolving urban tapestry for which Fitzroy is renowned.

Fitzroy, established in 1839, holds the distinction of being Melbourne's first suburb. Originally developed for the working class, it soon became known for its row houses, bluestone laneways, and bustling community life. By the mid-20th century, Fitzroy had evolved into a melting pot of cultures, attracting waves of immigrants and fostering a rich tradition of activism, creativity, and bohemian spirit.

In recent decades, the suburb has become a vibrant centre for the arts, with its walls serving as open-air galleries for muralists and street artists from around the world. Though once associated with countercultural resistance, the area now walks a fine line between gentrification and artistic preservation. This mural, layered with the marks of many hands, is emblematic of Fitzroy’s ongoing dialogue between history, community, and expression.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Chinese Friendship Garden in Sydney for Sunday Best

 

The Garden of Friendship, located beside the hotel at which I was lodging, was conveniently within walking distance, thus meriting a brief but deliberate visit. Though the entrance fee of twenty-four Australian dollars seemed somewhat steep—indeed, one might argue that such a public cultural space ought to be freely accessible—the experience nevertheless offered a serene and aesthetically rich retreat.

Designed in the classical style of traditional Chinese gardens, the Garden of Friendship is a harmonious composition of stone, water, and plant life, arranged in accordance with Taoist principles. The architecture and décor reflect the elegance and symbolism characteristic of Ming Dynasty landscapes: curved bridges, ornamental pavilions, koi-filled ponds, and intricately carved woodwork, all working together to evoke balance and contemplation.

Historically, the garden stands as a gesture of goodwill and diplomatic kinship. It was opened in 1988 as part of Sydney’s Bicentennial Celebrations, a gift from the people of Guangdong Province in southern China to the people of New South Wales. Its very name, the Garden of Friendship, underscores its role as a living monument to the enduring ties between Australia and China. Located in the heart of Darling Harbour, the garden serves not only as a cultural showcase but also as a space for quiet reflection amidst the city’s bustle—a tranquil haven that bridges two worlds.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Joel and I went out to visit a cheese factory. No photography but it was really nice to taste a variety of them. 

Red Browed Finches in Mount Baw Baw for Saturday Critter

 

This was taken a long time ago. I did not know this was meant to be rare and protected species. Red Browed Finches do look so lovely. I used to hike in Mount Baw Baw quite a bit.

Red-browed Finches (Neochmia temporalis) are small, vibrant birds commonly found in Victoria, Australia. Easily recognizable by their striking red eyebrow stripe, red bill, and chestnut flanks, these finches thrive in a variety of habitats including open woodlands, shrublands, gardens, and parks. They are often seen in small, social flocks feeding on grass seeds and occasionally insects. Red-browed Finches prefer areas with dense undergrowth or shrubs where they can seek shelter and nest, typically building their nests close to the ground. Their cheerful chirping and lively behavior make them a charming and familiar sight in many parts of Victoria.

Linking Saturday Critter

Piangil Night Sky with light painting for Skywatch Friday

 

Piangil lies approximately half an hour’s drive beyond Swan Hill in Victoria, situated near the threshold of the Australian outback. A modest rural locality surrounded by flat open farmland and distant horizon lines, it offers a profound stillness, especially under the vast dome of the night sky. This particular photograph was taken several years ago, during a period when I was deeply passionate about the art of light painting. At that time, I did not hesitate to rise in the small hours of the night, load the car with equipment, and make the journey into such remote reaches for the sake of a single frame of long-exposure magic.

How times have changed. These days, I find myself lacking the same energy or will to embark on such nocturnal expeditions. Age, it seems, makes its presence known not with fanfare but with small surrenders.

The lens I used then—a Laowa 12mm f/2.8, prized for its rectilinear precision and remarkable field of view—was sold a year later at a price that exceeded its original retail value. I remain mystified by the ways of eBay buyers; why one would pay more for a secondhand item than simply purchase it new from a reputable dealer escapes my understanding. Yet such are the strange economies of online marketplaces.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 12mm f2.8 

Linking Skywatch Friday

Bay of Islands in Blairgowrie Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

There exist three distinct locations bearing the name Bay of Islands within the state of Victoria, Australia. I have had the pleasure of visiting each of them. Of these, the one situated closest to Melbourne holds a particular charm for me. Nestled along the Mornington Peninsula, this coastal enclave offers a striking interplay of sea cliffs, hidden inlets, and crystalline waters—ideal for moments of quiet reflection or aerial exploration.

When my companion Joel and I are not preoccupied with the pursuit of sunset landscapes, we often retreat to this locale to fly our drone and capture sweeping views of the coastline. The rugged contours and tranquil hues lend themselves beautifully to this form of observation.

The second Bay of Islands lies within the famed Great Ocean Road region, west of Peterborough. This is perhaps the most well-known of the three, celebrated for its dramatic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean—remnants of a landscape carved by centuries of wind and wave.

The third, more remote and lesser known, is found near the shores of Corner Inlet in Gippsland. Here, coastal serenity and the subtle presence of birdlife create a setting marked by calm rather than spectacle. Each Bay of Islands bears its own character, yet all share the same elemental spirit—where land meets sea in timeless conversation.

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Martin Place Signs for Sign2

 

In the vicinity of Martin Place, Sydney, I have observed numerous signs newly installed in alignment with this week's theme.

I am feeling somewhat unwell at present and have endeavoured to perform additional sit-ups in order to strengthen my abdominal muscles. Muscles release good hormones.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Angel Place, Sydney for Treasure Tuesday

 

I paid a visit to Angel Place, a discreet and evocative laneway nestled near Martin Place in the heart of Sydney. My chief desire was to behold the suspended birdcages that grace the alleyway—a haunting and poetic installation known as Forgotten Songs. Conceived by artist Michael Thomas Hill and first installed in 2009 as part of the City of Sydney’s Laneways revitalisation program, this artwork commemorates the songs of fifty bird species once heard in the city before urbanisation drove them away. The empty cages, hanging above the narrow lane, evoke both memory and absence, as recordings of birdsong filter gently through the space, varying between day and night to reflect the natural calls of diurnal and nocturnal species. The experience was as moving as it was visually arresting—a poignant tribute to lost nature amidst the city's towering architecture.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday