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.

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FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Sunday Best

Balnarring Beach, Mornington Peninsula for Skywatch Friday

 

In the first photograph, Joel is visible in the distance, intently focused on photographing seaweed along the shoreline. The air has grown markedly cooler, and the sky bears the pale, steely blue that signals the quiet approach of winter. It is in such moments that the necessity of reconnecting with the natural world becomes most apparent—calming, grounding, and essential to the soul.

Balnarring Beach, located on the Mornington Peninsula southeast of Melbourne, stretches along the calm waters of Western Port Bay. Its gentle crescent shape and serene outlook toward Phillip Island make it a place of both quiet retreat and natural charm. The area is known for its safe swimming waters, expansive foreshore reserves, and the peaceful rhythm of tidal life.

The name “Balnarring” is thought to originate from Indigenous words meaning “little” and “gumtree,” a poetic nod to the native landscape. European settlement began in earnest in the 1840s when pastoral stations were established, and by the latter half of the 19th century, Balnarring had grown to include a post office, a school, and a church. The arrival of the railway in the early 20th century further connected the township with surrounding areas, allowing more visitors to discover its coastal beauty.

Balnarring Beach—once also known as Tulum Beach—has long held a quiet reputation as a haven for holidaymakers and nature lovers. In more recent times, it was honoured as one of Australia's cleanest beaches, a testament to the community's stewardship and respect for the land.

Even as seasons shift and the cold edges in, Balnarring Beach remains a place of stillness and reflection—a coastal landscape where history, nature, and memory meet in tranquil harmony.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

The past fortnight has been exceedingly busy for me. Despite the considerable amount of work I have undertaken, the returns have felt rather meagre. Joel and I have been diligently studying investments in the Japanese stock market, prompted by Warren Buffett’s decision to reallocate his wealth into Japanese equities.

Rabbit Rock, Blairgowrie for Water H2O Thursday

 

Rabbit Rock, located in Blairgowrie on the Mornington Peninsula near Melbourne, is a striking coastal formation renowned for its rugged beauty and natural charm. This rocky outcrop, shaped over time by the relentless force of the sea, offers a dramatic contrast to the surrounding sandy beaches and calm waters of Port Phillip Bay. At low tide, visitors can explore the exposed rock pools and fascinating marine life, while photographers are often drawn to its unique silhouette, especially at sunset when the light casts a warm glow across the coastline. A favorite spot for locals and tourists alike, Rabbit Rock embodies the raw, unspoiled allure of Victoria’s southern shores

Joel and I spent a pleasant weekend revisiting Rabbit Rock. Unfortunately, the tide was not sufficiently high, and as a result, we were unable to capture any foreground interest. The sunset, however, proved to be moderately satisfying.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

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.

Flinders Blowhole Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

This photograph was taken last weekend. The shutter speed was set slightly slow, producing an effect I found more appealing than that of a long exposure. The sky appeared particularly dramatic, and the waves crashing against the rocks were strikingly turbulent.

Wishing everyone a joyful Easter.

I have ordered a special cake from a boutique pâtisserie — a chocolate mousse delicately enrobed in pear cream — which I look forward to sharing with my mother.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Over the past fortnight, I have indulged in viewing all six seasons of Schitt’s Creek. At the outset, the series appeared somewhat clichéd, with a rather uninspired storyline. However, by the third season, it began to reveal a remarkable depth and charm. The romantic arc between Patrick and David, in particular, proved to be both refreshing and heartfelt. Each character was afforded the opportunity for full development, to the extent that, by the series’ conclusion, the actors and actresses felt like dear friends and cherished members of one’s own family. It was with a touch of melancholy that I bid farewell to the show as it drew to a close.

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

Flinders Blowhole seascape for Water H2O Thursday

 

I didn’t do much last weekend. This is an older photograph taken at Flinders Blowhole—I particularly like the way the water splashes onto the rocks.

I’ve resumed intermittent fasting in an effort to shed the extra weight I gained while in Taiwan. Work has been quite demanding. To make matters more difficult, I’ve received the unfortunate news that I will once again be losing my capable receptionist. It appears to be a recurring pattern within the corporate structure to dismiss competent staff within a two-year timeframe. One has to wonder—when things are functioning well, why is there a need to remove those who contribute positively?

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

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.

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FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Tenby Point Reverse Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Tenby Point is a small coastal village located in the Bass Coast Shire of Victoria, Australia, nestled along the eastern shoreline of Western Port Bay. Geographically, it lies east of Corinella, northeast of Coronet Bay, and southwest of Grantville. The village is characterized by its linear layout, comprising four main streets: Guy Road along the southern boundary, Bayview Avenue extending through the town, Marine Parade to the north, and Park Lane on the western side. As of the 2016 census, Tenby Point had a population of 184 residents.

The coastal landscape surrounding Tenby Point is notable for its alternating headlands and embayments, backed by active cliffs and bluffs formed from the Baxter Formation. This geological structure contributes to the area's dynamic shoreline, where headlands intercept the eastward drift of beach materials, leading to the formation of temporary cuspate forelands and recurving spits. These features highlight the ongoing processes of coastal erosion and sediment deposition that have shaped the region over time.

A significant historical landmark in Tenby Point is the remnants of an old jetty, visible along the beach. While specific historical records detailing the jetty's construction and usage are limited, such structures were commonly built in coastal Australian towns during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to facilitate maritime activities, including transportation of goods and fishing. The presence of these remnants offers a tangible connection to the village's past interactions with maritime trade and local industry.

The broader region encompassing Tenby Point has a rich history tied to early European exploration and settlement. The adjacent town of Corinella, for instance, was established in 1826 as a military outpost, serving as one of Victoria's earliest European settlements. This outpost aimed to deter French territorial claims and to establish a strategic presence in the area. Although the settlement was short-lived, it marked the beginning of European interest and subsequent development in the region.

Today, Tenby Point remains a serene residential area, appreciated for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. The village's coastal setting and proximity to other towns in the Bass Coast Shire make it a modest yet integral part of the region's tapestry, reflecting both its historical roots and ongoing connection to the maritime landscape.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday and Blau - die Farbe des Monats März

No 16 Beach, Rye for Skywatch Friday

 

Joel has never been fond of this place, yet I insisted that he accompany me. The site is well known for its Dragon Head rock, which I have shared photographs of on several occasions. This remarkable formation is only visible at the lowest tide of 0.1 meters. Unfortunately, I misread the tide charts online, and by the time we arrived, the tide was already at a medium level, steadily rising towards full tide.

To make matters worse, we unexpectedly encountered a photography group led by an individual with whom Joel had previously clashed. This unfortunate coincidence greatly aggravated his temper. However, we still maintained amiable relations with some members of the group, allowing for a few pleasant exchanges despite the otherwise tense situation.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

During time away, I will not be active on commenting and posting. 

Seagulls at Stingray Bay, Warrnambool for Saturday Critter

 

I am uncertain as to why a flock of seagulls has gathered, seemingly intent on feasting, despite the absence of fish in the shallow waters. I am simply awaiting the sunset, yet these creatures have chosen to accompany me in this moment.

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FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Saturday Critter

Flinders Blowhole Sunset, Mornington Peninsula for Sky watch Friday

 

One might find it peculiar that recent posts lack actual images of the blowhole jet. This absence stems from the jet’s current lack of impressiveness or photogenic qualities. Given the coastline's name, it is not feasible to use an alternative title for the post.

The attached image was captured after Joel ascended the stairs and headed back to the car, intending to procure chicken nuggets en route homeward.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

I recently viewed the Netflix documentary chronicling the fraudulent activities of Belle Gibson. The narrative was, indeed, profoundly disturbing. When faced with a diagnosis of cancer, one finds that a regimen of natural diet and exercise often proves insufficient in altering the course of the disease. Truly, the unpredictability of human behavior remains a constant source of astonishment.

Flinders Blowhole Sunset for Sky Watch Friday

 

The suggestion to capture the splash against the backdrop of the sunset was Joel's, given the paucity of intriguing foreground elements at our location

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Nearly all the time, it falls upon me to devise new photographic destinations during the weekends. Joel, however, anticipates that I shall undertake the arduous tasks. Nonetheless, he consistently volunteers to drive, thus achieving a semblance of equilibrium in our efforts.

Joel tells me that he is a bit sick of seaside adventures in the heat. So, we will be changing our efforts to metropolitan locations. 

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

Kilcunda panorama for Sky Watch Friday

 

Kilcunda Beach offers a serene and breathtaking escape for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Known for its stunning vistas, rugged coastline, and diverse marine life, this idyllic destination is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Kilcunda Beach, located approximately 115 kilometers southeast of Melbourne, boasts expansive sandy shores that invite visitors to relax and unwind. The gentle waves lapping against the shore create a soothing soundtrack, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The beach's unique combination of rocky outcrops and sandy stretches provides a picturesque backdrop for photographers and artists.

One of the highlights of Kilcunda Beach is the Kilcunda Rail Trail, a scenic walking and cycling path that offers panoramic views of the coastline. The trail, which follows the route of an old railway line, provides an opportunity to explore the area's rich history while enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds it. The iconic Kilcunda Trestle Bridge, a historic landmark along the trail, is a popular spot for taking in the stunning vistas and capturing memorable photographs.

Kilcunda Beach is also renowned for its rich marine life, making it a popular destination for fishing and snorkeling. The rock pools along the shoreline are teeming with diverse marine species, offering a fascinating glimpse into the underwater world. For those who enjoy fishing, the beach's clear waters provide an excellent opportunity to catch a variety of fish, including salmon, snapper, and trevally.

Linking Skywatch Friday

St Kilda Pier Sunset for Sunday Best

 

As the sun descended towards the horizon, casting its final golden hues across the sky, Joel and I found ourselves in search of a place to empty our bladders. In the distance, the timeless silhouette of a classic kiosk café stood, a silent witness to our quest.

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FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Balnarring Jetty for Skywatch Friday

 

This picturesque spot is perfect for anyone looking to connect with nature, breathe in fresh sea air, and soak up the tranquil vibes.

During sunrise and sunset, the jetty transforms into a canvas of breathtaking colors, reflected beautifully on the calm waters below. It's a haven for photographers, artists, and anyone who appreciates the simple beauty of nature. The jetty is also a fantastic spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering a peaceful setting to cast a line and potentially catch a variety of local fish.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

Bridgewater Bay Sunset for Sunday Best

 

I've often frequented this bay. The composition I consistently find myself capturing varies only by the light and the movement of the water within the frame.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best