Hopetoun Waterfall Beech Forest for Water H2O Thursday

 

Hopetoun Falls, located within the verdant Beech Forest region of Victoria, Australia, is a remarkable natural landmark renowned for its single-span cascade, which makes it an exceptional subject for long-exposure photography. I first visited this magnificent waterfall over ten years ago, and since then, it has remained one of my most cherished photographic locations. The falls descend gracefully through a steep gorge, surrounded by lush temperate rainforest dominated by ancient myrtle beech trees (Nothofagus cunninghamii), which contribute to the forest’s rich biodiversity and striking beauty.

The approach to Hopetoun Falls requires a gentle 30-minute walk along a well-maintained trail, winding through dense ferns and towering tree trunks that evoke the area’s long geological and ecological history. Over the past two decades, I have documented the falls extensively, noting significant changes in the environment, such as the increased accumulation of large fallen logs at the base of the cascade—remnants of the forest’s natural cycles of growth and decay. My earliest photographs, taken before these changes became pronounced, reveal a clearer, more unobstructed view of the water’s powerful descent.

The Beech Forest itself holds great natural heritage significance, forming part of the Great Otway National Park, an area that preserves ancient ecosystems that have persisted for millions of years. This forest and waterfall not only offer stunning scenery but also represent a vital refuge for numerous native species, making Hopetoun Falls a site of both scenic and ecological importance. Despite its popularity and the increasing number of visitors, which sometimes detracts from the tranquil atmosphere, Hopetoun Falls remains a timeless and inspiring symbol of Australia’s unique natural heritage.

Pentax K10D

DA 14mm f2.8

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Loch Ard Gorge, Great Ocean Road for Treasure Tuesday

 

Loch Ard Gorge, situated along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, is one of the most captivating coastal landscapes in the country. I miss this spot very much. Though windy and rainy most times, the sea is a gift from nature—a powerful, ever-changing presence that both humbles and inspires.

Geologically, the gorge is a testament to the raw force of erosion. Formed from soft limestone laid down 15 to 20 million years ago during the Miocene epoch, the cliffs and sea stacks of this coastline have been sculpted by wind, rain, and relentless wave action. Loch Ard Gorge itself came into being when an underground cave collapsed, leaving behind a narrow inlet framed by towering limestone walls and a hidden sandy beach. This is part of a larger system that includes other famous landmarks like the Twelve Apostles and London Arch—all gradually shaped and reshaped by the sea.

But the gorge holds more than just natural beauty; it carries a poignant human story. In 1878, the clipper ship Loch Ard struck a reef near nearby Mutton-bird Island in heavy fog after a long voyage from England. Of the 54 passengers and crew on board, only two survived—Tom Pearce, a ship’s apprentice, and Eva Carmichael, a young Irishwoman. Their dramatic survival and rescue unfolded within the very gorge that now bears the ship’s name, turning it into a place of both natural wonder and quiet remembrance.

Today, visitors to Loch Ard Gorge can explore trails and lookouts that offer views of the dramatic coastline and read about the shipwreck that gave the site its name. The area also lies within the traditional lands of the Gunditjmara people, whose deep connection to this region stretches back tens of thousands of years.

Standing there, with the wind whipping through the gorge and waves crashing against the cliffs, it’s easy to feel both the immense power of nature and the layers of history it holds. Though often moody with weather, the sea remains a gift—timeless, untamed, and unforgettable.

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Mungo National Park sky for Sky Watch Friday

 

It was during one of those long, wind-swept nights beneath the vast, starlit expanse of the Australian outback that I attempted a panoramic photograph—an effort made while Joel and I waited patiently to capture the Milky Way in all its nocturnal splendor. In those youthful and impassioned days, we were possessed by a singular devotion to the art of photography. No hardship deterred us; we would endure scorching days and frigid nights, often in complete solitude, all for the hope of a single, perfect image that might capture the eternal.

Our vigil took place in the hauntingly beautiful Mungo National Park, a land steeped in both geological and human antiquity. The Park, part of the Willandra Lakes Region World Heritage Area, is home to the enigmatic formations known as the "Walls of China"—spectacular lunettes shaped by the elements over tens of thousands of years. These sculpted ridges, composed of eroded sand and clay, rise like the remnants of an ancient civilization, their strata whispering tales of climate shifts, vanished lakes, and the passage of deep time.

It was here, amidst the ghostly contours of this primeval terrain, that we lingered. The very ground beneath us bore the imprint of some of the earliest known human beings on the Australian continent. The remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Lady—buried with ceremonial care over 40,000 years ago—had been discovered not far from where we stood, lending our modern artistic pursuit a solemn sense of continuity with those who had gazed upon the same stars in an age unimaginably distant.

Though our lenses sought the ephemeral beauty of the heavens, it was the timeless silence of the land that truly left its mark. In that moment, as the night wrapped us in stillness and the ancient rocks glowed faintly in the starlight, our dedication to photography seemed not merely an artistic endeavor, but a dialogue—one between past and present, between the eternal sky and the ever-changing earth.

Sony A7RV 

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Sky watch Friday

London Bridge Remains, Portsea, Mornington Peninsula for Sunday Best

 

Situated upon the windswept coast of Portsea, at the southernmost tip of the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria, Australia, the site known as London Bridge was once crowned by a magnificent natural arch—an enduring testament to the erosive power and artistry of the sea. Fashioned over countless centuries, the arch stood as both a geological marvel and a cherished local landmark, drawing visitors to behold its stark beauty and the thunderous majesty of the ocean that sculpted it.

The great arch succumbed to the inevitable work of time and tide, collapsing in the early twenty-first century and thus altering the visage of the coastline forever. Yet the place remains imbued with a kind of solemn grandeur. Where once stone spanned sky, now only remnants of its former glory stand—weathered, noble, and quiet.

I used to frequent this place often, long before I began to spend my weekends in the company of Joel. In those days, I found in the solitude of London Bridge a peculiar and profound kind of solace. Though the arch itself has long since fallen, the sea, ever faithful to its art, continues its delicate work. At high tide, waters surge into the heart of what remains—a rocky cavernous bowl—filling it with a shimmering pool of seawater that dances and glistens in the sunlight. It is a sight of singular, haunting beauty.

Joel, however, regarded the place with far less affection. To him, it was barren and uninspiring, its charms too subtle, its colours too subdued. I suppose we all have our own preferences. Where I perceived wild poetry, he found only a muted coast. And yet, I cannot help but feel that therein lies its power: in the understated, in the stripped-down silence of land and sea at meeting point.

Though the bridge itself is no more, the spirit of London Bridge endures—etched not only in the weathered stone and the tides that whisper through its remains, but also in the hearts of those who once stood before it and felt, if only for a moment, the immensity of the earth’s quiet grandeur.

Sony A7RIV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Sunday Best

Granite Island, Victor Harbour, South Australia for Water H2O Thursday

 

These photographs showcase areas of Granite Island that were not included in my earlier publications. The striking red mosses adorning the granite rocks are a distinctive and captivating feature of the island’s natural landscape. Granite Island, located just off the coast of Victor Harbor in South Australia, is famed for its extensive granite outcrops formed millions of years ago, which have shaped its unique terrain and ecosystem. The island boasts a rich history, having been inhabited by the Ngarrindjeri people for thousands of years before European settlement, and today serves as a protected reserve supporting diverse native flora and fauna, including the well-known little penguin colony. I find great enjoyment and solace in experiencing the island’s remarkable natural beauty and the opportunity to immerse myself in its serene environment.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Byron Bay Sky for Sky Watch Friday

 

During a period of locum work, I had the opportunity to practice in Byron Bay and its surrounding districts, including Lismore and Ballina. My principal motive for undertaking this engagement was to ascertain the allure that has, in recent years, drawn numerous Hollywood celebrities to the region. Though Byron Bay is often extolled for its natural beauty and purported lifestyle benefits, my experience led me to conclude that the area is, in many respects, somewhat overrated.

Historically, Byron Bay was known to the Bundjalung people, the traditional custodians of the land, long before European settlement. The town later developed as a hub for dairy production, whaling, and sand mining during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In more recent decades, it has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving into a fashionable coastal retreat famed for its beaches, alternative culture, and wellness tourism. Despite these developments, I found that the modern veneer of celebrity glamour sits somewhat uncomfortably atop a town whose charm lies more in its history and natural surroundings than in its current reputation.

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

Linking Skywatch Friday

I am enjoying the series of Peacemaker on Max. Joel strongly recommended to me last evening. 

Nasu Mountain, Itamuro, Japan for Sunday Best

 

During my visit to Japan several years ago, I had the privilege of exploring the renowned Nasu Mountain, a remarkable destination steeped in both natural beauty and historical significance. On that fortunate day, the sky was adorned with a perfect blend of clouds and blue, enhancing the allure of the landscape. It was a serene and captivating scene, despite the absence of the autumn foliage, which had already fallen by the time of my visit.

Nasu Mountain, located in the Itamuro region of Tochigi Prefecture, is a revered landmark with a rich history. Known for its striking peaks and hot springs, it has long been a place of spiritual significance, with its natural hot springs once believed to have healing properties. The region's volcanic activity and scenic beauty have made it a beloved destination for travelers and pilgrims alike.

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

Linking Sunday Best

Over the weekend, I accompanied Joel on a foraging excursion for mushrooms upon Mount Macedon. There were but few to be found, for the weather has remained unseasonably warm, unfavourable to the flourishing of fungi. In the end, we made our way to the establishment in Hawthorn and partook of a meal of ramen.

Staircase and Egg Rock at Granite Island, South Australia for Sunday Best

 

Staircase of Granite Island:
The staircase of Granite Island in South Australia is a striking man-made feature that winds its way up the rugged granite terrain of the island, offering visitors an accessible path to panoramic views of the surrounding seascape. Carefully integrated into the natural environment, the staircase allows for a gradual ascent, making it easier for tourists to explore the elevated areas without disturbing the island’s delicate ecosystem. Along the way, travelers are treated to breathtaking vistas of Encounter Bay and the dramatic Southern Ocean, as well as opportunities to spot local wildlife, including seabirds and the island’s famous little penguins.

Egg Rock of Granite Island:
Egg Rock is one of the intriguing natural formations on Granite Island, named for its smooth, rounded shape that resembles a large egg perched amid the jagged granite boulders. This geological feature, sculpted over millennia by wind and sea erosion, stands as a testament to the island’s dynamic natural history. Egg Rock is a popular point of interest for visitors exploring the walking trails, as it provides not only a unique photo opportunity but also a moment of wonder at the forces of nature that have shaped the island’s landscape. The formation adds to the island’s mystique and complements its other natural and cultural attractions.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking to Sunday Best

Lake Tyrrell Sky Mirror for Skywatch Friday

 

In the fleeting minutes of twilight, just before Lake Tyrrell succumbs to complete darkness, there occurs a moment of rare and ethereal beauty. Beneath a cloudless sky, the lake’s surface reflects a magnificent wash of pink and violet hues, as if the heavens themselves have descended to meet the earth. This phenomenon—revered by many and often referred to as the "sky mirror"—is among the lake’s most iconic and mesmerising scenes.

I have been fortunate to capture numerous such moments, preserving in photographs the tranquil majesty of this place. There exist a few secret vantage points just off the Salts Road track, where the reflections are particularly vivid and the view unobstructed. Yet, the terrain here can be unforgiving. Vehicles often find themselves marooned, their wheels sunk deep into the treacherous mud that lies hidden beneath the salt-encrusted surface.

Lake Tyrrell, whose name derives from the Boorong word for “sky,” is not only a site of visual splendour but also of profound cultural heritage. The Boorong people, part of the Wergaia nation, have long regarded this lake as a sacred space. For millennia, they have observed the stars and mapped the heavens from its shores, embedding the night sky into their stories, ceremonies, and understanding of the world.

Thus, as twilight falls and the lake is transformed into a mirror of the cosmos, one senses not only nature’s grandeur but also the enduring legacy of those who first understood its deeper meaning. In that stillness, history and beauty are one.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Note to Self,

5 Hindrances to Self-Mastery

1. Sensual desire (sight/touch/taste/smell/hearing) = Am I addicted?

2. Ill will / aversion = Am I feeling a negative emotion?

3. Dullness / heaviness = Am I unmotivated?

4. Restlessness = Is my mind jumping from thought to thought?

5. Sceptical doubt = Am I indecisive?

RAIN (is the solution)

Recognise which one you're experiencing

Accept that's what you're experiencing

Investigate why you're experiencing it 

Non-identify with that experience.

Lake Tyrrell Pastels for Water H2O Thursday

 

Each time I undertake the journey from Melbourne to the more remote regions of Victoria for rural engagements, I find myself invariably drawn to Lake Tyrrell. Situated near the modest township of Sea Lake, this ancient salt lake never ceases to captivate me, particularly at dusk.

Over the years, I have amassed an extensive collection of photographs—sunsets captured in their full splendour, each image a testament to the lake’s ever-changing disposition. The sky, in its myriad hues of violet, gold, and crimson, reflects upon the mirror-like surface of the salt flats, transforming the landscape into a vast and luminous tableau. It is as though nature has claimed Lake Tyrrell as its canvas, rendering a new masterpiece with every setting sun.

Yet the lake's significance extends far beyond its aesthetic allure. Its name, Tyrrell, is derived from the language of the Boorong people, a clan of the Wergaia nation and the traditional custodians of this land. For thousands of years, they have lived in harmony with this environment, drawing upon the stars for navigation and storytelling, and regarding the lake as a place of spiritual and cultural importance. In their tongue, Tyrrell signifies “sky,” an appellation most fitting for a place where the heavens seem to meet the earth.

With each visit, I am reminded that Lake Tyrrell is not merely a picturesque stop along my route—it is a place steeped in antiquity, serenity, and meaning. It welcomes quietly, yet profoundly, with its timeless beauty and enduring stories.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Amidst the recent flurry of news concerning tariff disputes, Joel and I have exchanged numerous messages, keeping a vigilant eye on the fluctuations of the stock market. Joel, in particular, finds himself especially unsettled, having made a somewhat premature investment in certain ETFs tied to the U.S. markets. We are both, in essence, enduring a veritable catecholaminergic storm.

Da Xi Japanese architecture for Treasure Tuesday

 

Dàxī, a township in Taiwan, is renowned for its longstanding tradition of soy production. Beyond its culinary significance, the area is distinguished by a remarkable preservation of Japanese-era architecture—residences and structures that date back to the period of Japanese colonial rule from 1895 to 1945. These wooden houses, with their delicate carpentry, tiled roofs, and modest elegance, evoke a quiet nostalgia and stand as enduring symbols of a bygone era.

Curiously, unlike many post-colonial societies where resentment often lingers toward former occupiers, Taiwan exhibits a notably different sentiment. There exists, particularly among older generations, a sense of admiration and even fondness for the period of Japanese rule—often in contrast to the more complex and strained relationship with mainland China. This enduring affection is reflected not only in the preservation of architecture but in aspects of culture, infrastructure, and education that were shaped during the colonial era.

For me, these Japanese-era dwellings possess a certain wistful charm. Their presence stirs reflections on history, identity, and the nuanced nature of collective memory—a testament to how architecture can quietly narrate the legacy of a place and its people.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Intimacy may be defined as the state in which one feels no fear in revealing one's true self before another, untroubled by the prospect of judgment or estrangement.

Flinders Blowhole, Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

Over the weekend, Joel and I made another visit to Flinders Blowhole. We chose this destination due to its relatively short driving distance and our desire to explore a different side of the location. The outcome was satisfactory; I managed to capture several seascapes that I found quite pleasing.

With the Easter holidays approaching, the weather forecast predicts rain and storms. Joel and I had intended to go birdwatching in several nature reserves around Melbourne, but given the conditions, it is unlikely to go as planned. I may simply remain at home and follow the news from the United States.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

After enduring a total of eight hours of travel merely to deliver a four-hour lecture, the return journey to Melbourne proved even more exhausting, not least due to an unsettling encounter on the road. I became the target of a distressing incident of road rage: a truck followed me closely for approximately one-third of the journey, only to overtake me abruptly and then proceed to slow down significantly, seemingly with the intent of making my drive as uncomfortable as possible. One is left to wonder—what has become of civility among people?

Kilcunda Trestle Bridge Gippsland for Skywatch Friday

 

This weekend, Joel has expressed a desire to return to the Kilcunda coastline, a place rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. I believe we may seize the opportunity to venture further into the deeper reaches of the sea during low tide, perhaps uncovering aspects of the shoreline previously unexplored.

It is worth noting that Kilcunda is home to the iconic Trestle Bridge, a striking relic of Australia’s early railway era. Constructed in the early 20th century as part of the Wonthaggi railway line, the bridge once served as a vital artery for coal transport, linking the thriving mining town of Wonthaggi to Melbourne. Though no longer in service, the structure remains a testament to the region's industrious past, standing proudly above the Bass Coast as a reminder of Gippsland’s role in shaping Victoria’s economic history.

In returning, we not only revisit a beloved coastal spot but also walk in the shadow of history itself.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 14-24mm f2.8

Linking Skywatch Friday

Pulpit Rock twilight for Skywatch Friday

 

This is the perspective I prefer to reach, as the view aligns with the principles of classic photography in terms of composition.

I eagerly anticipate joining Joel for a trip to Pinnacles this weekend, where I hope to capture stunning sunset shots once more.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

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

Granite Island in Victor Harbour in South Australia for Treasure Tuesday

 

The walk around Granite Island is quite a delightful experience. Despite the strong winds, I find great enjoyment in the stroll, pausing to capture photographs along the way. Regrettably, I did not remember to bring my tripod for the journey. Consequently, I have relied upon Joel’s shoulder to achieve the necessary steadiness for certain shots.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Treasure Tuesday