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

Sony A7RV

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

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Castle Hill New Zealand for Sunday Best

I love this place very much

Sony A7RV

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

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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

Different corner of Cape Schanck for Water H2O Thursday

 

The purple hue is the problem with Sony lenses in general. I did not want to bother colour correction.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

The seascape at Kilcunda Gippsland for Water H2O Thursday

 

Joel identified the spot, and I quickly took over after he finished the shot. 

Sony A7RV

Sigma 14-24mm f2.8 

Linking Water H2O Thursday

just got off the phone with Joel. We might scout another spot near this place on the weekend. 

Kilcunda rock arch Gippsland for Treasure Sunday

 

I have been here a few times over the years. It was a lowest tide ever while everywhere on the back beach of Mornington Peninsula was actually high tide. 

This is probably the moodiest shot I have taken this winter.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 14-24mm f2.8

Linking Treasure Tuesday