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

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

Abandoned Old Gillies Pie Factory in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Old Gillies Pie Factory in Bendigo, Victoria, stands as a testament to the city's rich industrial and culinary heritage. Established in the mid-20th century, this factory was once the heart of a thriving pie-making enterprise that left an indelible mark on the local community.

Origins and Growth

The Gillies Pies brand was founded by three brothers—Les, Alan, and Norm Gillies—who relocated from Charlton to Bendigo following the 1940s drought. They began their venture with a modest bakery on Mitchell Street, gradually expanding their operations to meet the growing demand for their delectable pies. In 1958, the brothers acquired the Black Swan Hotel building, transforming it into a mass production facility. This site would later become known as the Old Gillies Pie Factory.

Community Impact

The factory wasn't just a production site; it became a local institution. The "pie window" at Gillies Corner, their second shop, often saw queues of eager customers winding down the street, drawn by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pies. At its peak, Gillies Pies employed around 200 people, with retail outlets spreading across Victoria and distribution reaching as far as Melbourne.

Decline and Closure

Despite its success, the company faced challenges in the latter part of the 20th century. Operations eventually ceased, and the factory fell into disrepair, becoming a canvas for graffiti and a spot for urban explorers. In 2016, the last link to the iconic brand was severed when the remaining factory operations in Bendigo were shut down, marking the end of an era.

Preservation Efforts

In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve the legacy of the Old Gillies Pie Factory. Local history enthusiasts have lobbied for the site's restoration, aiming to maintain its "naturally decrepit" state as a nod to its historical significance. These endeavors highlight the community's desire to honour and remember the factory's role in Bendigo's history.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Heavenly Queen Temple, Footscray for Treasure Tuesday

 

The Heavenly Queen Temple suffered damage during the flood two years prior. When we visited, the majority of the structures were still under construction. Situated on the bend of the Yarra River, just near the border of Melbourne City, the temple remains secluded from the surrounding urban environment.

Joel, desiring to sample the Pho in Footscray, selected this destination for us to explore with our prime lenses.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6 

Linking Treasure Tuesday 

Silver Eye for Saturday Critter

The silvereye (Zosterops lateralis), also known as the white-eye, is a small, distinctive bird with a ring of white feathers around its eyes, hence the name. This petite bird, measuring just 11 to 13 centimeters in length, is a common sight in Melbourne's gardens, parks, and bushlands. Its adaptability and varied diet make it a resilient and successful species in urban environments.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

The silvereye is native to Australia and New Zealand, with its presence widely noted across the southeastern regions of the Australian mainland, Tasmania, and the islands of the South Pacific. In Melbourne, the silvereye thrives in both natural and urban landscapes, from dense forests to suburban backyards. Their adaptability to different environments is key to their survival, allowing them to coexist alongside human populations.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior

Silvereyes are easily recognizable by their olive-green upperparts, grey underparts, and the conspicuous white ring around their eyes. They have a slender, slightly curved bill, which aids in their varied diet. These birds are highly sociable, often seen in flocks, which helps in foraging and protection against predators.

During the breeding season, which typically runs from August to January, silvereyes build small, cup-shaped nests in dense foliage. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks, which fledge about ten days after hatching. This collaborative approach ensures high survival rates for their offspring.

Diet and Foraging

The silvereye's diet is diverse, consisting of insects, fruit, nectar, and small seeds. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in the ecosystem, as they help in pollination and seed dispersal. In Melbourne, silvereyes are often seen flitting around gardens, feeding on native plants like eucalyptus and bottlebrush, as well as exotic species such as berry bushes and fruit trees.

Adaptability and Urban Living

One of the remarkable traits of the silvereye is its ability to adapt to urban environments. In Melbourne, they have adjusted well to changes brought about by human development. They are often observed in public parks, gardens, and even city centers, taking advantage of the food sources provided by ornamental plants and residential gardens.

The presence of silvereyes in urban areas also highlights the importance of creating bird-friendly environments in cities. Planting native flora, providing water sources, and ensuring safe nesting sites can help support these birds and enhance biodiversity within urban settings.

Sony A7RV + FE 200-600mm f5.6-6.3

Linking Saturday Critter

Hosier Lane, Melbourne for Mural Monday

 

It has become a considerable challenge to discover commendable murals upon Hosier Lane in Melbourne. Numerous vagrant individuals now inhabit the byways. The murals I encountered were swiftly besmirched by graffiti within a mere week. I frequently observed tours proceeding along Hosier Lane, yet the countenances of the participants often bore expressions of fatigue and disinterest.

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Mural Monday

Monday is Invasion Day. I gonna head out to photograph violence in city streets. 

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

Lake Tyrrell for Skywatch Friday

 

Lake Tyrrell is a breathtaking, shallow Salt Lake that's more than just a geological wonder. This ancient Salt Lake spans an impressive 20,860 hectares, making it Victoria's largest Salt Lake. But what truly makes Lake Tyrrell an Instagram-worthy marvel is its stunning reflective surface that mirrors the sky, creating otherworldly visuals that seem straight out of a dream

Over the years, I have amassed a collection of photographs of this lake, capturing its various lights and weathers. Although I haven't visited the lake monthly this year, each visit has offered a unique experience.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

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Last evening, Joel and I planned to explore an inner-city beach along the Mornington Peninsula. We aimed to discover a few hidden corners of the rocky coast, perfect for long exposure photography. However, the weather turned completely overcast, contrary to the sunny forecast. We decided to detour to St Kilda Pier, which had recently reopened after three years of construction (Australia is notoriously slow with major construction projects).

Joel introduced me to the peculiar "no-no" dance from Sweden. He showed me an official video clip on TikTok, where the government requested Finnish women to perform this dance just before their rape in the country. It was bizarre to hear about this news. We ended up discussing world events in a rather dismal 24/7 China bar, consuming terrible carbs and eating deep-fried food

That is so bizarre right? 

Linking Skywatch Friday

Melbourne Night at Birrarung Marr

 

Just too many people in the city. After that long gig 2 nights ago, I am binge watching Lord of the Rings on Netflix instead. Such a tragic story to watch. 

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Melbourne City signs for Sign2

 

This restaurant was recently in trouble on news

A very nice restaurant 

Rather gothic 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Signs 2

Melbourne High Riser in CBD for Treasure Tuesday

 

I did not realise there were so many new tall buildings in city these days

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Street Signs for Sign2

 

There are different sorts of architecture in the city

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign 2

Near Flagstaff station for Sign2

 

I am preparing for war game on my mobile phone. Self indulgence. So no more photowalk in city

Sony a7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2