Grantville Jetty Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Grantville lies not far from Tenby Point, and it was this proximity that led Joel and me to visit—drawn, curiously enough, by a singular souvlaki shop, notable for being operated by Greeks rather than the more common Chinese proprietors. The lamb served here is remarkably succulent, richly complemented by a garlicky parsley sauce that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Just behind the modest establishment stands the town's jetty, offering a quiet vista over the water. Thus, our visit served a dual purpose—culinary and contemplative—allowing us, as the saying goes, to kill two birds with one stone.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

West Gate Park Melbourne for Treasure Tuesday

 

We had initially set our sights on Sandridge Bridge, intending to capture the city skyline at sunset. Much to our surprise and disappointment, the entire area had been cordoned off, denying us access. Undeterred, we sought an alternative vantage point that might render the excursion worthwhile. We turned our course towards Westgate Park, only to discover that it too was undergoing extensive construction works—an added frustration.

Nonetheless, perseverance led us to a suitable spot from which to photograph the twilight. The gentle hues of dusk, softened by the encroaching night, provided some consolation.

Westgate Park itself, situated along the banks of the Yarra River beneath the West Gate Bridge, has long served as a haven for birdlife and city dwellers alike. Once a barren expanse of industrial wasteland, it was transformed during the 1980s as part of Melbourne’s urban greening initiatives. The park is especially known for its striking pink lake—a seasonal natural phenomenon caused by the proliferation of salt-loving algae under specific climatic conditions.

The current redevelopment seeks to enhance visitor access, restore native habitats, and improve ecological sustainability. Though temporarily inaccessible, it promises to return as an even more vibrant urban refuge.

Our evening concluded at a nearby Japanese restaurant, where we sought comfort in freshly pan-fried gyoza. Joel, in high spirits, treated himself to a small carafe of sake—rounding off a day that, though unplanned in its course, retained its moments of charm and reward.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Bay of Islands in Blairgowrie Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

There exist three distinct locations bearing the name Bay of Islands within the state of Victoria, Australia. I have had the pleasure of visiting each of them. Of these, the one situated closest to Melbourne holds a particular charm for me. Nestled along the Mornington Peninsula, this coastal enclave offers a striking interplay of sea cliffs, hidden inlets, and crystalline waters—ideal for moments of quiet reflection or aerial exploration.

When my companion Joel and I are not preoccupied with the pursuit of sunset landscapes, we often retreat to this locale to fly our drone and capture sweeping views of the coastline. The rugged contours and tranquil hues lend themselves beautifully to this form of observation.

The second Bay of Islands lies within the famed Great Ocean Road region, west of Peterborough. This is perhaps the most well-known of the three, celebrated for its dramatic limestone stacks rising from the Southern Ocean—remnants of a landscape carved by centuries of wind and wave.

The third, more remote and lesser known, is found near the shores of Corner Inlet in Gippsland. Here, coastal serenity and the subtle presence of birdlife create a setting marked by calm rather than spectacle. Each Bay of Islands bears its own character, yet all share the same elemental spirit—where land meets sea in timeless conversation.

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Bridgewater Bay, Mornington Peninsula Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

No foreground is discernible save for the advancing waves, their restless motion ever drawing the eye. Above, the golden sky is suffused with a deep, rich orange hue, casting a solemn glow upon the scene. Upon the distant horizon to the right, two ships are faintly discerned, their silhouettes a testament to the era when maritime vessels plied these waters, linking the burgeoning settlements of Melbourne with distant lands. The cliffs of Bridgewater Bay, steeped in history, stand guard nearby—once a silent witness to the passage of explorers and traders who shaped the destiny of this southern shore.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Sky Watch Friday

Montforts Beach Sunset Mornington Peninsula for Water H2O Thursday

 

Montforts Beach, nestled along the wild and windswept southern coast near Melbourne, remains one of the few coastal enclaves where photographers may still pursue the elusive golden hour even during the rise of high tides. This hidden gem, rarely frequented due to its seclusion, offers a dramatic tableau of nature’s enduring craftsmanship. Towering cliffs of ancient sandstone, layered with millennia of geological memory, descend into tessellated basalt formations—remnants of long-extinct volcanic activity that once shaped the Mornington Peninsula. The beach itself, a narrow strip of coarse golden sand, lies hemmed in by rock pools, tidal shelves, and kelp-strewn shallows, all bathed in the shifting hues of the setting sun.

Yet the approach to this remarkable place has grown increasingly difficult. What was once a discernible trail has, in recent seasons, been overtaken by vigorous coastal vegetation. Low-hanging tea-trees twist and arch over the track, their limbs heavy with salt-laden air, while dense undergrowth of banksia, bracken, and coastal wattle obscure the path beneath. The bush seems to reclaim the land with a quiet persistence, and each step forward requires both care and instinct.

On this most recent journey, Joel and I found ourselves disoriented amid the overgrowth. The once-familiar route seemed to vanish into the thicket, and we moved forward more by memory and determination than by sight. Despite the hardship of the passage—scratched limbs, uncertain footing, the whisper of the wind bearing no answer—we pressed on, compelled by the promise of what lay beyond. And at last, as the trail opened up to the vast, moody expanse of sea and stone, we were reminded why Montforts remains, for all its resistance, a sacred haunt of light and solitude.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Cape Schanck Sunset for Sky Watch Friday

 

Cape Schanck, situated on the southern tip of the Mornington Peninsula, is a place of remarkable natural beauty and a favored destination for photographers. While it is particularly renowned for its breathtaking sunrises, I must confess that, on the rare occasions I find respite from work, I struggle to rise at such an early hour. Nevertheless, the allure of the cape endures.

Joel holds a particular fondness for Cape Schanck, in no small part due to its convenient proximity to Melbourne—a mere 45-minute journey under favorable conditions. The walk down the rugged staircase, though physically demanding, offers invigorating exercise and rewards one with sweeping coastal vistas.

Rich in both natural splendor and historical significance, Cape Schanck has long captivated visitors. Its dramatic cliffs, shaped by millennia of wind and sea, stand as silent sentinels over the restless waters of Bass Strait. The iconic Cape Schanck Lighthouse, built in 1859, adds a further layer of charm, bearing witness to the maritime history that continues to define the region.

In all, it is a place where land, sea, and sky converge in a timeless dance—a setting that stirs the soul, whether viewed through the lens of a camera or the quiet contemplation of the heart.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday

I find myself experiencing a degree of muscle strain, the result of the many walks I undertook throughout Sydney’s central business district. Tomorrow, I shall return home to Melbourne.

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

Bridgewater Bay Sunset for Water H2O Thursday

 

Recently, Joel and I had the pleasure of visiting Bridgewater Bay, a locale of striking natural beauty nestled along the Mornington Peninsula near Melbourne. The bay, renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and sculpted rock formations, presents varied aspects of the coastline—each affording its own unique photographic character. The ebb and flow of the Southern Ocean have, over countless years, carved intricate features into the shore, rendering the landscape both wild and sublime.

Locum work that takes one away from home, however, proves to be a challenge. Such endeavors serve as a sober reminder not to accept such responsibilities without due consideration. In moments of solitude and fatigue, I find myself increasingly aware of the passage of time and the quiet insistence of age.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

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.

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

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

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

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.

Sony A7RV

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. 

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

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.

Sony A7RV

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

Childer's Cove for Sunday Best

 

Childers Cove is a small, crescent-shaped beach framed by rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations. The towering limestone cliffs, reaching up to 70 meters (230 feet) above the turquoise waters, create a natural amphitheater showcasing the raw beauty of the coastline. The beach itself is low and flat, with a shallow bay floor, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll or beachcombing.

The cove holds a poignant history as the site where the wooden barque "Children" was wrecked after striking reefs close to shore in 1839. Despite its somber past, the cove exudes a unique charm, inviting visitors to explore its untouched serenity.

Childers Cove is not just a beach; it's an ecosystem teeming with life. Keep an eye out for inquisitive penguins waddling on the shore, listen to the melodic calls of seabirds soaring overhead, and spot playful dolphins dancing in the waves. The diverse flora, including coastal shrubs, wildflowers, and native grasses, adds to the vibrant backdrop of this scenic sanctuary.

From the golden hues of sunrise painting the cliffs to the dramatic silhouettes at sunset, Childers Cove is a photographer's dream. Capture the raw power of the ocean crashing against the rocks, the playful frolicking of dolphins, or the serene atmosphere of the secluded beach.

Childers Cove is accessible via a well-maintained gravel road located off the Great Ocean Road, near Nullawarre. Limited parking is available near the beach, and toilet facilities can be found at the nearby Murnanes Bay car park. Remember to be sun-safe and bring appropriate footwear for exploring the rocky terrain.

Escape the crowds, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this unspoiled paradise. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing retreat, Childers Cove offers something for everyone

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best