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

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

Twelve Apostles Great Ocean Road for Skywatch Friday

 

The Twelve Apostles, located along the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Australia, are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country. These towering limestone stacks have captivated visitors for centuries, standing as a testament to the immense geological forces that have shaped Australia’s southern coastline. The formation, composition, and ongoing erosion of the Twelve Apostles reveal a fascinating geological history that continues to evolve over time.

Formation and Composition

The Twelve Apostles were formed approximately 10 to 20 million years ago during the Miocene epoch. They are composed primarily of limestone, which is a sedimentary rock formed from the accumulation of marine organisms such as coral, shells, and microscopic plankton. Over millions of years, these organic materials were compacted and cemented together, creating the limestone formations seen today.

Erosional Processes

The striking stacks of the Twelve Apostles are a direct result of erosion processes driven by the powerful forces of the Southern Ocean. The relentless action of wind and waves gradually carved into the soft limestone cliffs, forming caves that eventually deepened into arches. As the arches collapsed, they left behind the isolated rock stacks known as the Twelve Apostles.

Erosion continues to shape the landscape, with the relentless ocean wearing away at the bases of these limestone stacks. This process not only reduces the size of the existing formations but also contributes to the formation of new stacks as sections of the mainland erode and become isolated.

Changes Over Time

Despite the name, there have never been exactly twelve rock stacks. At the time of European exploration, nine stacks were visible, and as of today, only eight remain due to natural erosion. One of the formations collapsed in 2005, demonstrating the ongoing geological changes in the region. The rapid pace of erosion, estimated at approximately 2 cm per year, suggests that more stacks may collapse in the future, while new ones may emerge as sections of the coastline break away.

Geological Significance

The Twelve Apostles provide valuable insights into past marine environments and climate conditions. By studying the limestone formations, geologists can reconstruct historical sea levels, climate fluctuations, and the evolution of coastal landscapes. Additionally, the site serves as an excellent example of coastal erosion and sedimentary rock formation, making it an important location for scientific research and education.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

I shall be traveling abroad next week and shall post only intermittently, as time permits.

Cape Woolamai long exposure in Phillip Island for Sunday Best

 

At the time leading up to the setting of the sun, the atmosphere remained tranquil. The hues of the sky were devoid of sophistication, displaying an unsophisticated dullness typical of the summer season. Joel, exasperated by the mundane appearance of the sky, threw a bit of tantrum. In his wanderings, he discovered the sizable carcass of a seal amidst the rocky shore. I refrained from hastening to his aid, perceiving the shore as perilous and not worth the risk.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Upon reflecting on those moments, I began to gather photographs featuring Joel, who masterfully juggled the cherished memories. These images vividly capture the essence of our experiences, highlighting the diverse shots we took together

Safety Beach Melbourne for Water H2O Thursday

 

On the eve of Australia Day, Joel and I embarked on an exploration of Safety Bay. There remain a few corners of the area that are relatively unknown to visitors. This particular location holds promise as one of the few points of interest that might be explored in the near future. Upon our arrival, we discovered a significant gap between two landing platforms, thus hindering our access to the lower waters for extended observation. Consequently, we perched ourselves upon the cliff's edge, where we gazed upon the setting sun. It was, indeed, a most delightful experience.

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Indeed, recent reports have confirmed that Dimboola is currently engulfed in flames, necessitating the evacuation of all its residents. My visits to that quaint town during my locum tenens assignments in Horsham, Victoria, remain vivid in my memory. It is almost inconceivable that such a locale, with its once serene yet now desolate Pink Lake, is capable of being overtaken by fire.

Pirate Bay Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Having captured this photograph, Joel and I found ourselves nearly swallowed by the encroaching darkness, standing upon the shallow seabed revealed by the lowest tide. We had ventured nearly a kilometre into the sea on this exposed platform. While capturing sunsets has become a customary practice for me, Joel's thoughts were fixed upon the prospect of indulging in the fried prawns at a nearby fish and chips establishment following our photographic endeavor.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Second Valley Beach, South Australia for Sunday Best

 

Second Valley Beach is frequently promoted as an ideal family-friendly destination. Upon our arrival, Joel's immediate observation was its diminutive size, referring to it as a "small, tiny, puny beach!" Nevertheless, the area was teeming with visitors, seemingly more people than sand. The beach featured an abandoned jetty and a distinctive belt of unusual rock formations extending away from the shoreline. Fortunately, the tide was low, allowing us to safely traverse the narrow, stony trail leading to the rocky outcroppings.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

In the past few days, I have completed viewing the second season of "House of Dragons," watched two horror films while exercising on the elliptical machine, and watched the movie "Sleeping Dogs." As a result, I feel thoroughly entertained.

Hanging Rock, Macedon for Treasure Tuesday

 

Just an hour's drive northwest of Melbourne, lies the enigmatic Hanging Rock. This awe-inspiring geological formation, rising majestically from the Macedon Ranges, has captivated the imagination of visitors for centuries.

A Geological Marvel

Hanging Rock, or Mount Diogenes as it is formally known, is an extraordinary rock formation made up of volcanic magma that solidified around 6.25 million years ago. Its unique pinnacles and sheer cliffs create an otherworldly landscape that is perfect for exploration and adventure. The rock stands 718 meters above sea level and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Cultural Significance

Hanging Rock holds a special place in the hearts of the local Indigenous Wurundjeri people, who regard it as a sacred site. The area is steeped in rich cultural history and tradition, making it a meaningful destination for those interested in Australia's Indigenous heritage.

Picnic at Hanging Rock

The mystery and allure of Hanging Rock were immortalized in Joan Lindsay's 1967 novel "Picnic at Hanging Rock," and the subsequent 1975 film adaptation directed by Peter Weir. The story, centered around the unexplained disappearance of a group of schoolgirls and their teacher, has added an air of intrigue and mystique to the site, drawing countless visitors keen to experience the setting of the iconic tale.

On New Year's Day, finding ourselves rather bored, Joel and I decided to explore this area, while everyone else frolicked at the beach.

DJ MiniPro4 

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Granite Island, Victor Harbour for Sunday Best

 

Granite Island, located off the coast of Victor Harbor in South Australia, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was originally home to the Ngarrindjeri people, who called it "Nukalilla." The island's striking granite formations were later discovered by European settlers in the early 1800s. In the 19th century, Granite Island became a key site for early European exploration and settlement. Today, it's a popular destination for tourists, known for its stunning coastal views, wildlife, including the famous little penguins, and its historical significance.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Cape Schanck Sunset for Sky Watch Friday

 

This view was via a staircase on the walk down to Pulpit Rock

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Sky Watch Friday 

Sierra Nevada Rocks for Treasure Tuesday

 

It was great to hang out with Joel again. More trips to come before Xmas

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6 

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Sierra Nevada Rocks Portsea for Water H2O Thursday

 

It is the first time re-visiting this location this year. It was a good walk around the area.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Bridgewater Bay Sunset sky for Sky watch Friday

 

Here is the sky for the Friday event

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FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Bridgewater Bay for Treasure Tuesday

 

I did not get a sun star out of this view.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Bridgewater Bay Long Exposure for Water H2O Thursday

 

Another visit to the region. Joel and I had fun snapping here

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FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Castle Hill New Zealand for Sunday Best

I love this place very much

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FE 20-70mm f4 G

Sunday Best

Portsea Melbourne for Sunday Best

 

The beautiful cave 

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Sunday Best

Cape Schanck Long exposure for Water H2O Thursday

 

I have many captures of the region in different light here

Sony A7RV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Pulpit Rock Cape Schanck for Skywatch Friday

 

Another long exposure shot from a while back

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Pinnacles Cape Woolamai for Sunday Best

 

I have been playing the game from midnight til 6 am almost in the last 3 consecutive weekends. It is so addictive.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best