Adelaide Hills Winery

 

Joel and I embarked on a journey through the renowned wine region, celebrated for its exquisite vintages. Enchanted by the picturesque scenery, we paused at several vantage points to capture the elegant rows of vines, ensuring we framed the idyllic views to perfection.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

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

Galah for Saturday Critter

 

The Galah, also known as the rose-breasted cockatoo, is one of Australia's most beloved and recognizable birds. With its striking pink and grey plumage and playful personality, the Galah captures the hearts of bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Galahs are easily identified by their bright pink chests, pale pink crowns, and grey wings and backs. These medium-sized cockatoos are known for their strong, curved beaks and expressive crests, which they raise and lower depending on their mood. Galahs are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks, and are known for their acrobatic flying and playful antics.

Galahs are widespread across Australia, inhabiting a variety of environments including woodlands, grasslands, and urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both rural and suburban settings. Their ability to find food and shelter in diverse habitats has contributed to their success and widespread presence.

These birds have a varied diet that includes seeds, nuts, berries, and insects. They are often seen foraging on the ground in open spaces or in trees, using their strong beaks to crack open tough shells and extract seeds. In urban areas, Galahs may also visit bird feeders and parks, where they enjoy a range of treats provided by human admirers.

Galahs are known for their strong pair bonds and often form lifelong partnerships. They nest in tree hollows, where they raise their young together. Outside of the breeding season, they gather in large, noisy flocks that can be seen and heard across the Australian landscape. Their playful nature and social interactions make them a delight to watch.

Linking Saturday Critter

Rapid Bay South Australia for Skywatch Friday

 

Rapid Bay is a hidden gem just 105 kilometers south of Adelaide. This tranquil seaside town is known for its stunning coastal scenery, including long sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

One of the highlights of Rapid Bay is its historic jetty, which offers breathtaking views of the bay and is a popular spot for fishing and relaxation. The bay is also a haven for divers and snorkelers, with dramatic shipwrecks and vibrant marine life, including the elusive Leafy Sea Dragon.

For those who love exploring, Rapid Bay's coastal caves and scenic hiking trails provide endless opportunities for adventure. The area is perfect for a peaceful getaway, whether you're camping under the stars or enjoying a picnic by the shore.

DJ Mini Pro4

Linking Skywatch Friday

Safety Beach Sunset for Water H2O Thursday

 

Safety Beach is a serene seaside suburb just 56 km (35 miles) south of Melbourne's Central Business District. Known for its calm, sandy bay and family-friendly atmosphere, Safety Beach is a perfect spot for a relaxing day by the water.

A Beach for Everyone Safety Beach offers a safe swimming environment, making it ideal for families with young children. The beach is protected by a cove, ensuring calm waters and a gentle surf. There's also a small sandy dog beach, so you can bring your furry friend along for some fun in the sun.

Activities and Amenities The foreshore reserve features an attractive children's playground, BBQ areas with shading, and plenty of picnic spots. For those who enjoy boating, Martha Cove, a large inland harbour, provides excellent facilities and scenic views. The Safety Beach Sailing Club, established in 1967, hosts numerous state and national titles, showcasing the area's vibrant sailing community.

Scenic Surroundings Safety Beach is surrounded by natural beauty, with views of Mount Martha to the north and Arthurs Seat to the south. The coastal road of Marine Drive separates the housing and commercial areas from the beach, offering a scenic drive with stunning ocean views.

Historical Tidbits Interestingly, Safety Beach was once humorously referred to as "Shark Bay" due to shark sightings attracted by an old abattoir's waste. However, the area has since been cleaned up, and the name "Safety Beach" remains

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Birrarung Marr Carnival for Melbourne Street Signs

 

My recent photo series included many candid shots, with various signs appearing in the frames. It was an enjoyable challenge to limit myself to just a 35mm f/1.4 lens. Despite the constraints, it required creative thinking to capture unique moments.

On Christmas Day, Joel and I are planning to visit an inland area to fly our drone, after enjoying some festive feasting with family, of course. I've noticed that there aren't many photography lenses on sale this year, so it's probably wise to save the money for next year.

I hope you have a wonderful holiday season and enjoy your photography adventures!

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

Merry Christmas to all my blogger friends!

 

As we gather around the twinkling lights and festive decorations, let's take a moment to cherish the beauty of this magical season. May your hearts be filled with joy, your homes with laughter, and your days with love. Thank you for being a part of our journey this year. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a bright, prosperous New Year!

Cheers to capturing more wonderful memories together in the coming year! 📸🎅🎁

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Treasure Tuesday

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

Sierra Nevada Rock for Sunday Best

 

Situated in the picturesque Mornington Peninsula, the Sierra Nevada Rocks in Portsea offer a stunning coastal experience. Located at the end of London Bridge Road, this natural wonder is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

As you make your way down the steep path to the beach, you'll be greeted by the iconic London Bridge rock formation, known for its arched shape. The Sierra Nevada Rocks, with their rugged beauty, create a dramatic seascape that's perfect for photography and exploration.

During low tide, the area reveals a vast expanse of glittery turquoise rockpools, making it a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding trails, including the Wilsons Folly walking track, offer scenic views and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region

Last night, I spent four hours waiting for it to get dark enough to photograph the amusement rides at Birrarung Marr.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sunday Best

Gonna catch up with Joel tonight for another trip down the coast. 

Gecko for Saturday Critter

 

On my trip to Traralgon several years ago

Panasonic G9

FA 100mm f2.8 macro

Linking Saturday Critter

Reed's Look Out for Skywatch Friday

 

Ashok fellow blogger is so good with minimalism. I am browsing my collection of images over the years and find this one to do the trick

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

Skywatch Friday

Granite Island seascape for Water H2O Thursday

 

I spent the last four months playing an online game and became too addicted to it, spending over 40k AUD in the process. Joel tried several interventions with me. Finally, his persistence paid off when he encouraged me to take this trip. I now realize that what I was dealing with was essentially an addiction.

I’ve always been there for Joel, and now it feels great to know I have someone to count on. I'm finally back to my photography hobby and blogging again. You can't get rid of me that easily, lol.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Hahndorf Signs for Sign2

 

Hahndorf, located in the Adelaide Hills of South Australia, is Australia's oldest surviving German settlement. Founded in 1839 by German Lutheran migrants fleeing religious persecution in Prussia, the town was initially named after Dirk Meinerts Hahn, the captain of the ship Zebra, which brought the first settlers.

The town's layout was designed in a traditional German village style, with the Lutheran Church at its center. Over the years, Hahndorf has retained much of its German heritage, evident in its architecture, cuisine, and cultural festivals. During World War I, the town was temporarily renamed Ambleside due to anti-German sentiment, but it reverted to Hahndorf in 1935.

Joel enjoys his tea as usual. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Sign2

Granite Island trail for Treasure Tuesday

 

This was part of granite island walk we took on. The stairs are great photography opportunities for us but we did have to wait almost 20 minutes for the kids to vanish out of our view finders.

Joel is probably my last close friend that I can rely on these days. Literally there are no secrets among us. The trip was rather literally so spontaneous that we decided to take a great road trip for a few days while he visited a friend's wedding. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Lismore Mural for Mural Monday

 

There are not many murals in Lismore NSW. However, I manage to get all the ones there in one go. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

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

Lake Entrance Cormorant for Saturday Critter

 

The ocean is nice in the bokeh

That was taken on a summer day when Joel and I tried to test out a new Pentax zoom. It ended up being a 5 hour drive one way to this boring town lol 

Linking Saturday Critter

Pink Lake, Ashville for Skywatch Friday

 

Joel and I took a long drive to reach this destination. Not much else is there apart from droning.

The Geology of Pink Lake

Pink Lake’s iconic pink color and its unusual salt crust have sparked scientific interest, and its geology is just as captivating as its history.

The Formation of the Lake

Pink Lake is a saline lake, which means it is highly concentrated with dissolved salts. The lake itself is part of the Eyre Basin, a large endorheic basin in South Australia. Endorheic basins are unique because they don’t drain into the sea, which results in the accumulation of water, salts, and minerals over time. The lake was formed through a combination of ancient geological processes, including the movement of tectonic plates, as well as climatic factors such as evaporation and rainfall patterns.

Over millions of years, the region's climate has fluctuated, with periods of both wetter and drier conditions. During drier times, the lake has dried up, leaving behind a thick layer of salt. When filled with water, the lake remains highly saline due to the evaporation that occurs in the hot, dry conditions of South Australia. This process of evaporation leads to a concentration of salts, and the lake’s high salinity is what supports the formation of salt crusts on its surface.

The Pink Color Phenomenon

The stunning pink hue of Pink Lake is one of its most distinctive features. The color of the lake can vary in intensity, from pale pink to deep fuchsia, and is influenced by several factors, most notably the presence of specific microorganisms in the water. A key contributor to this coloration is a type of algae known as Dunaliella salina, which thrives in highly saline environments. This algae produces a red pigment called beta-carotene, which is responsible for the lake's signature pink appearance.

In addition to the algae, the lake’s unique chemistry also plays a role in the color change. High levels of salt in the water create an environment where certain types of bacteria and microorganisms flourish, leading to the vivid color shifts. The lake's color can also be affected by the time of year, temperature, and the water’s salt content, which explains why the lake’s appearance can change from one season to another.

Salt Production and Mining

Over the years, salt mining has been a significant part of the lake's economic history. The salt extracted from Pink Lake is high in quality, and it was used in a variety of applications, from table salt to industrial and agricultural uses. In the past, large-scale mining operations have extracted salt using evaporation techniques, where water from the lake was allowed to evaporate, leaving behind a thick, white salt crust.

Today, salt production at the lake has mostly ceased, but remnants of the industry remain. The area is still an important site for scientific study, particularly concerning its saline ecosystem and the unique microorganisms that call the lake home.

Linking Skywatch Friday

The latest Aldi commercial is quite amusing

Xmas Turkey

Rapid Bay Cove South Australia for Water H2O Thursday

 

Joel and I already finished the trip in SA. It was nice and sweet.

Rapid Bay is such a gem. We actually went into a cave near that coast. It was rather fun. 

Rapid Bay is a perfect blend of natural wonders, with its azure waters, sandy beaches, and towering cliffs creating a picturesque landscape. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply someone who enjoys a peaceful retreat, the area offers ample opportunities for exploration. The shallow waters of the bay are home to a rich marine ecosystem, making it a popular spot for snorkelers and divers eager to see the diverse underwater life. It’s also a great spot for swimming and relaxing on the beach while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Surrounded by the dramatic hills of the peninsula, the bay is a haven for wildlife. The surrounding hills and cliffs provide an excellent backdrop for those keen on walking or hiking, with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline stretching all the way to the horizon.

The most striking feature of Rapid Bay is its abandoned mine and jetty, remnants of the area’s industrial past. The Rapid Bay Jetty, once a bustling port, was originally built in the late 1800s to support the mining and export of limestone, a key resource for cement production. The jetty itself, with its weathered planks and rusting metal supports, now stands as a haunting reminder of a time long past. Once a vital lifeline for shipping limestone to Adelaide, the jetty is now a quiet monument to the region’s industrial heritage.

The abandoned mine at Rapid Bay has an equally intriguing history. The mine, which operated primarily during the 20th century, extracted limestone from the surrounding cliffs. The industry that flourished here brought life to the small town of Rapid Bay, but over time, it waned, and the mine was eventually closed. Today, the old mine site and its remnants offer a glimpse into the hard work and ingenuity that defined the area’s past.

For those with an interest in history or industrial archeology, the mine and jetty provide a fascinating look into the once-thriving limestone industry. The juxtaposition of natural beauty with the eerie, forgotten structures of the mine makes for a truly unique and memorable visit.

Linking Water H2O Thursday

We were in a secret cellar enjoying the drink

Melbourne Signs for Sign2

 

More signs on my casual walk around CBD

Sony A7RV

FE 50mm f1.2 GM

Linking Sign2

Murray Bridge in South Australia for Treasure Tuesday

 

Nestled along the banks of the Murray River, the Murray Bridge stands as a testament to both South Australia’s rich history and its modern-day infrastructure. Opened in 1879, this vital crossing connects the town of Murray Bridge to the rest of the state, serving as a key transport route for locals and visitors alike. With its distinctive steel structure, the bridge spans nearly 600 meters and remains one of the longest and oldest in the region.

The aerial view offers a unique perspective of the bridge’s scale and the surrounding landscape. From the tranquil waters of the river to the sprawling farmland, it’s a reminder of how this impressive feat of engineering has helped shape the community for over a century. Today, the Murray Bridge continues to stand as both a historical landmark and a symbol of progress in South Australia.

DJ Mini Pro4 

Linking Treasure Tuesday

We had the best chili cheesy Kranski here

Lismore Mural for Mural Monday

 

This is rather disturbing to look at

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Mural Monday

Mount Lofty summit in Adelaide Hills for Sunday Best

 

I was dining at the manor in the middle of the frame.

3 hat restaurant. Fine food. Joel and I have enjoyed the 4-hour 9 courses degustation 

DJ Mini Pro4 

Linking Sunday Best

Long neck turtle for Saturday Critter

 

Around Murray River, they are seen everywhere lately

Linking Saturday Critter

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 

Portsea seascape for Water H2O Thursday

 

This year, most Saturday is windy and overcast. So not many opportunities to get wonderful golden hour magic. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Pesgrave Place Signs at Melbourne for Sign2

 

Some more Melbourne Street scenes

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Linking Sign2

p.s. Joel and I are heading interstate to Adelaide from tomorrow til Sunday. So there may be hit and miss with posting and commenting