Fitzroy Melbourne Murals for Mural Monday

 

Fitzroy is a vibrant and eclectic suburb. Over the weekend, Joel and I dined in the area, evoking a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of our university years.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Late Cherry Blossom at Tian Yuan Temple in Taipei for Sunday Best

 

After an arduous and fatiguing journey home, I was able to secure only two hours of sleep in total. The upcoming weekend will require significant adjustment before I officially resume work.

February marks the season of cherry blossoms in Taiwan, with the Yoshino cherry (Prunus yedoensis) blooming slightly later. This exquisite variety, characterised by its pale pink petals that fade to white, is renowned for its delicate beauty and ephemeral nature, symbolising both renewal and the fleeting passage of time.

My visit to Wuji Tianyuan Temple in Tamsui, Taipei, was primarily to witness this floral spectacle. This revered temple, known for its magnificent five-story pagoda and serene atmosphere, becomes a favored destination during cherry blossom season. The harmonious blend of traditional architecture and cascading blooms transforms the temple grounds into an ethereal landscape, drawing visitors seeking both spiritual solace and natural splendor.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Rodeo Wrangler for Saturday Critter

 

I recently revisited some of my earlier work, which was featured in a local Melbourne newspaper. I still recall the protestors gathered outside the main entrance, hurling accusations of murder and animal cruelty at me as I walked through the gates.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Saturday Critter

Lake Aoraki, New Zealand for Skywatch Friday

 

Reflecting on the journey to New Zealand, the sky appears as a vast canvas, adorned by the ever-changing hand of the capricious weather.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

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

Taipei Signs for Sign2

 

Hot Dog shop

Don Don Donki shop sign says "Welcome"

A traditional shop that sells simple carbohydrates 

Life has become considerably more tranquil of late. With but a few days remaining in my hometown, I now choose to take my leisure, reclining and occupying myself with various shows. The humidity here has grown quite oppressive, and the rising temperatures only add to the discomfort. It has, as a result, become increasingly difficult to venture outdoors.

Sony A7RV + FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sign2

Lung Shan Temple, Taipei, Taiwan for Treasure Tuesday

 

Lungshan Temple, one of Taipei's most venerated and historic sanctuaries, still bears the vestiges of the recent Lantern Festival, with vibrant lanterns swaying gently in the breeze even as spring advances. Founded in 1738 during the Qing Dynasty by settlers from Fujian, this sacred site has long stood as a testament to the resilience and devotion of the local people, having endured earthquakes, fires, and even wartime bombardments.

In my younger days, I often wandered these hallowed grounds, capturing candid images of life unfolding amid the temple's intricate carvings and incense-laden air. These excursions were frequently shared with my friend Darren, a Canadian who, like me, found himself drawn time and again to the timeless atmosphere of Lungshan Temple. Together, we sought to preserve fleeting moments through the lens, amidst a setting where history, faith, and community converge.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Woomelang Murals Victoria for Mural Monday

 

Woomelang, a small town situated in the Mallee region of Victoria, Australia, has become an unexpected but captivating destination for travelers and art enthusiasts alike, thanks to its contribution to the growing phenomenon of silo art. Like many rural towns in Australia, Woomelang has embraced the use of large grain silos as canvases for monumental public art. The Woomelang silo murals, completed in 2019, are part of the larger "Silo Art Trail" in Victoria’s northwest, which has transformed the landscape of the Australian outback and revitalized interest in these remote communities.

The Woomelang murals are the work of renowned street artist Jimmy Dvate, who is celebrated for his focus on Australian native flora and fauna. The artwork on the silos highlights local wildlife, particularly species that are significant to the Mallee region. Prominently featured are the malleefowl, a threatened ground-dwelling bird native to the area, and the plains-wanderer, an endangered bird species that has become a symbol of conservation efforts in the region. These images are more than just artistic expressions; they serve as reminders of the fragility of the local ecosystem and the importance of environmental stewardship.

The murals also celebrate the rural identity and heritage of Woomelang. By focusing on local fauna, Dvate’s artwork pays homage to the deep connection between the community and its surrounding environment. The vivid and lifelike depictions of these birds, set against the muted tones of the Mallee’s iconic dry landscape, create a striking visual contrast that draws visitors’ attention from afar. The use of large silos as the canvas not only maximizes visibility but also blends contemporary art with the agricultural legacy of the region.

The impact of the Woomelang silo murals has been significant. Once a quiet and relatively isolated town, Woomelang has seen an increase in tourism and local engagement since the completion of the artwork. Travelers exploring the Silo Art Trail often stop in Woomelang, bringing much-needed economic benefits to local businesses such as the general store, cafes, and accommodation providers. Moreover, the murals have fostered a sense of pride among residents, uniting the community around a shared cultural landmark.

Sony A7RV

FE 24mm f1.4 GM

This is linking Mural Monday

Pulpit Rock, Cape Schanck, Mornington Peninsula for Sunday Best

 

I just returned from a whole day's trip around Taipei. This shot was from one of the adventures I had with Joel. The photo did look better now than the time I clicked the shutter. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Some of the dumplings I had: Soup dumpling and Wen zhou Wontons. 

Linking Sunday Best

Red Browed Finches in Wonthaggi Gippsland for Saturday Critter

 

Red-browed Finches (Neochmia temporalis)

The Red-browed Finch, also known as the Red-browed Firetail, is a small, colorful bird native to eastern and southeastern Australia. These finches are popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts due to their distinctive appearance and social behavior.

Appearance

Red-browed Finches are small birds, measuring around 11-12 cm in length. They are most recognizable by their striking red markings: a bright red stripe (or "brow") running from the beak through the eye, a vivid red beak, and a red rump and tail. The rest of their plumage is a soft olive-green on the back and wings, with grey underparts. The red accents make them easy to identify, especially when they are foraging on the ground or flitting through dense vegetation.

Habitat and Distribution

These finches are widely distributed across eastern Australia, from Queensland down to Victoria and South Australia, often found in woodlands, forest edges, grasslands, and along watercourses. They are especially common in areas with thick undergrowth and are often seen in urban gardens and parks. Their ability to adapt to disturbed and human-altered landscapes has contributed to their stable population.

Diet

Red-browed Finches primarily feed on seeds, particularly grass seeds, but they will also eat small insects and fruits when available. They are ground feeders and are frequently seen hopping around in groups, feeding on seeds fallen to the ground. Their short, conical beak is perfectly adapted for cracking seeds.

Behaviour

Highly social, Red-browed Finches are often observed in flocks, sometimes numbering up to 30 or more birds. They exhibit cooperative behaviors, such as communal roosting and allopreening (grooming each other). Pairs form strong bonds and can often be seen perched closely together, engaging in mutual preening, as seen in your photo.

These finches are also known for their quiet and sweet-sounding calls, a series of high-pitched "tseet-tseet" notes that help flock members stay in contact while foraging or flying.

Breeding

The breeding season generally occurs from August to April but can vary depending on food availability and location. Red-browed Finches build dome-shaped nests made from grass and other fine plant materials, typically located in dense shrubs or trees. Both male and female participate in building the nest and feeding the chicks. Clutches usually consist of 4 to 6 eggs, and the young fledge after about three weeks.

I still remembered this lucky shot when the trip went to Wantage for some nice hay bale sceneries

Linking Saturday Critter 

TowerHill for Skywatch Friday

 

Tower Hill is always windy. The central island is quite special acting as a good foreground for the shot

Linking Skywatch Friday

Shi Fen Waterfall for Water H2O Thursday

 

Shi Fen Waterfall holds a special place in my heart, as I have visited it over the span of 25 years—first a quarter-century ago, then a decade ago, and now once more. Over time, the site has undergone numerous changes, including periods when access to the foothill of the falls was prohibited.

During my visit, I took great pleasure in strolling through the surrounding landscape, immersing myself in its beauty, and observing the majestic cascade of the waterfall. However, on this occasion, I did not bring a tripod, which prevented me from capturing proper long-exposure photographs.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Wai Xi Street Signs at night for Sign2

 

That sign reads dumpling

"Shaved Ice shop"

Apart from attending to unresolved family matters, I did not visit many scenic locations. Instead, I spent my time strolling and dining according to recommendations from various culinary magazines. The thunderstorms arrived and departed frequently, characteristic of the unpredictable weather typical of an island.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

This is linking Sign2

Bo Pi Liao Heritage buildings with graffiti for Treasure Tuesday

 

Bo Pi Liao, located in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Taiwan, is a historical and cultural gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich past. This preserved area, known for its well-maintained Qing Dynasty architecture and Japanese colonial influences, stands as a testament to Taipei’s transformation from a trade hub to a modern metropolis. Bo Pi Liao is not only a place of historical significance but also a center for cultural education and artistic expression.

Historical Significance

Bo Pi Liao’s history dates back over 200 years to the Qing Dynasty, when it was a bustling commercial district. The area flourished due to its strategic location along trade routes, serving as a marketplace for merchants and craftsmen. During the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945), the district underwent significant changes, with the introduction of new architectural styles and infrastructure developments that blended traditional Chinese and Western influences. Later, during the post-World War II era, Bo Pi Liao saw urbanization, but many of its historical buildings were preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate its unique heritage.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

One of Bo Pi Liao’s most striking features is its architecture. The buildings, constructed using red bricks, wooden beams, and stone carvings, reflect a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural styles. The narrow alleys, arched corridors, and preserved shopfronts transport visitors back in time, showcasing Taipei’s commercial history.

Bo Pi Liao is also home to the Heritage and Culture Education Center of Taipei, which provides exhibits and interactive displays about the city’s history. Through these exhibits, visitors can learn about Taipei’s evolution from a traditional market town to a modern urban center. The area often hosts cultural events, including art exhibitions, traditional performances, and educational workshops, further enhancing its role as a cultural hotspot.

While waiting in line for what was reputedly the finest congee in Taipei, as praised in various magazine reviews, I unexpectedly wandered into this historic district. Though the congee itself did not prove to be particularly remarkable, the accompanying dishes were quite delightful.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Murals for Mural Monday

 

Certain murals indeed evoke deep emotions, and exploring different painting styles allows me to appreciate and learn from them.

Regarding my time in Taipei, I am finally overcoming the effects of jet lag. However, I find myself feeling less adept at adjusting to new environments. Additionally, I have been inundated with a considerable number of work-related emails, which has been rather distressing. The constant demands of others can be quite overwhelming.

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

This is linking Mural Monday

Cape Woolamai for Sunday Best

 

I have visited this place numerous times, and this particular visit is from the past. Each time I come here, I inevitably acquire a new injury.

The Pinnacles of Phillip Island are a striking natural rock formation located within the Cape Woolamai region, one of the island's most scenic and rugged landscapes. These towering granite structures, sculpted by centuries of wind and ocean erosion, rise dramatically along the coastline, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset when the rocks are bathed in golden light.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sunday Best

Frankston Pier Gull for Saturday Critter

 

The rented portal Wi-Fi is suboptimal, hindered by the thick concrete walls of the apartment, which obstruct signal transmission. As a result, accessing the unreliable Blogspot platform remains inconsistent.

The seagull, in turn, met my gaze.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Saturday Critter