The Great War

The loss of life in the First World War was catastrophic. From a population of fewer than five million, 60,000 Australians were killed, and 156,000 were wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner. The unimaginable scale of loss led to the creation of memorials across the country as a new way to express national grief. Shocked by the scale of death, historian and offical war correspondent Charles Bean proposed and advocated for a national memorial.

Charles Bean

Charles Bean was born in Bathurst, New South Wales on November 18, 1879. When he was ten, his family relocated to England, where he completed his education. Later, he returned to Australia and pursued a career in journalism. In 1914, the Journalists’ Association chose him as an official war correspondent.

Gallipoli

Bean arrived at Anzac Cove in Gallipoli at 10 a.m. on April 25, 1915, five and a half hours after the initial landing. Two weeks later, he joined two Australian brigades in a costly and failed attack at Cape Helles. For his assistance to the wounded soldiers under fire on the night of May 8, he was recommended for the Military Cross. However, as a civilian, he was not eligible for the award and was only mentioned in the dispatches. He was the only correspondent who stayed in Gallipoli from April to December.

On August 6, Bean was wounded in his right leg. Refusing to be taken off to a hospital ship, he hobbled to his dugout. Laying there and having the wound dressed daily until August 24, when he was well enough to again and observe the fighting. In 1916-18, Bean was in France to observe every engagement of the A.I.F. On his return to Australia he supervised the development of the 12-volume Official History of Australia in the War of 1914-1918. He also authored six volumes, finishing the final one in 1942.

A Legacy of Remembrance

On November 11, 1941, the Australian War Memorial was opened during World War II, on what is now known as Remembrance Day. This date holds immense importance as it marks the end of World War I, which significantly impacted Australia. Established to honour and preserve the memory of all Australians who have served in wars and conflicts, it acknowledges their sacrifices and ensures that their stories are remembered for generations to come.

John Treloar, who was from Melbourne, also landed on Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. Treloar was instrumental in making Bean’s vision a reality. In 1917, he became the head of the newly established Australian War Records Section (AWRS) in London. He was responsible for collecting records and relics for the future museum and assisting the official historian. Following the war, Treloar dedicated his life to the memorial, influencing almost every aspect of its development. He was appointed Director of the Memorial in 1920. Treloar held the position until his passing in 1952, except for a brief period during the Second World War when he was in charge of the Military History and Information Section (MHIS).

the Western Front

On July 19, 1916, the Australian Imperial Force (AIF) launched their first major attack on the Western Front in Fromelles, northern France. 7,000 Australian soldiers charged across open ground in broad daylight under heavy fire and direct observation from the German lines. By the next day, over 5,500 were wounded, and nearly 1,900 lay dead. These horrendous statistics made it the most devastating 24 hours in Australia’s history. In the following days, three Australian Divisions continued to attack German positions at Pozières. This resulted in an additional 23,000 casualties over six weeks.

‘The field of Pozières is more consecrated by Australian fighting and more hallowed by Australian blood than any field which has ever existed.

Charles Bean

Architectural marvel

The memorial’s design balanced the desire for an impressive monument to honour the fallen soldiers and a budget of only £250,000. In 1927, an architectural competition was held, but none of the designs submitted were satisfactory. However, two entrants, Emil Sodersteen and John Crust, were encouraged to combine their designs. Sodersteen’s vision for the building and Crust’s idea of cloisters to house the Roll of Honour with over 60,000 names were incorporated into the joint design. This was ultimately accepted, and the joint design serves as the foundation of the building we see today.

In the middle of the memorial site is a Commemorative Area surrounded by arched cloisters. Bronze panels hold the Roll of Honour, listing the names of those who have lost their lives. Beyond the cloisters stands the impressive Hall of Memory at the edge of the Pool of Reflection. The interior wall and dome of the hall are covered in a mosaic of six million pieces. Stunning stained-glass windows also line the walls. Within the Hall of Memory lies the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier.

Redevelopment

The Australian War Memorial received funding approval for a development project in 2018. The goal of the Memorial’s redevelopment is to acknowledge the service of our country’s veterans, both now and in the future. The project involves constructing a new southern entrance, a new Anzac Hall, and fitting out new galleries in the main building, which will create additional exhibition spaces. A new research center and reading room have been included in an extension to the CEW Bean Building. Parade Ground and landscaping works have also been carried out to accommodate increased attendance at events.

According to the Australian War Memorial’s website, the proposed development project is estimated to cost $498 million. However, the final cost of the project could be up to $527 million due to additional costs such as inflation, unforeseen circumstances, and additional work. The sandstone building’s iconic façade housing the Roll of Honour, Pool of Reflection, and Hall of Memory will remain unchanged.

Education and Commemoration

The AWM plays a crucial role in educating visitors about the country’s military history and the impact of war on humanity. This museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts. Item such as weapons, uniforms, diaries, and photographs, offer valuable insights into Australian service personnel’s lives. Through its permanent and temporary exhibitions, the memorial delves into different aspects of Australia’s involvement in conflicts. These reveal the bravery, perseverance, and selflessness of those who served.

Significantly, the Australian War Memorial is also a historical landmark and a place for commemorative ceremonies. These ceremonies are held on important days such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day. The Last Post ceremony is held every day at the memorial. The poignant tribute allows visitors to reflect on the personal stories of the fallen soldiers.

sculptural monument

The AWM houses a series called “As of Today” by Alex Seton. It is a sculptural tribute to Australian soldiers who were killed while serving in Afghanistan. The series particularly emphasizes the ceremonial folded flag that is draped over the casket during the military funeral and then presented to the fallen soldier’s family.

Each of the forty three flags are sculpted in Australian marble and represents a specific individual and a life lost. The name and details of the individual on a card in front of the flag.

Sacred Site

The Australian War Memorial is much more than a museum. It is a revered site representing remembrance of the sacrifices made by Australians during times of war. With its stunning architecture, educational initiatives, and commemorative events, it plays a crucial role in Australian society ensuring that past sacrifices are never forgotten. Additionally, it fosters a deeper understanding of the nation’s history and emphasises the importance of peace.

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Located on the southwestern coast of Phillip Island in Victoria, The Nobbies is a popular tourist destination that offers a breathtaking view of Bass Strait.

Geological Marvel

The Nobbies is a remarkable headland that displays awe-inspiring views from the clifftops. Its stunning rock formations result from millions of years of natural forces at work. The area comprises basalt formations shaped by the relentless pounding of the Southern Ocean, creating a mesmerising landscape of sea cliffs, caves, and rock stacks. This geological wonderland attracts visitors from all around the world who come to marvel at its stunning natural beauty.

Marine Life Extravaganza

The Nobbies is more than just a geological wonder. It also boasts a thriving marine ecosystem with various plants and animals. The chilly waters surrounding the headland offer an ideal home for seals, penguins, and many seabirds. Likewise, nearby Seal Rocks are home to a sizable population of Australian fur seals, which delight visitors with their playful behaviour and elegant dives. These charming creatures enhance The Nobbies’ appeal and emphasise the island’s important role in safeguarding marine biodiversity.

Penguin Parade

The Penguin Parade at The Nobbies is a significant draw for visitors. It’s an incredible sight at sunset as the hundreds of tiny penguins return to their burrows on Summerland Beach. Specially built viewing platforms allow visitors to watch these charming creatures waddle onto the shore after a day of hunting in the sea. This daily spectacle serves as a valuable educational experience, highlighting the importance of preserving the natural habitats of these vulnerable seabirds.

Please note that there is an entry fee for attending the penguin parade, and photography is prohibited. The reason provided for this rule is to avoid disturbing the birds, although some may argue that this is an exaggerated claim. Especially in light of there being numerous locations worldwide where penguins can be photographed without any negative impact on their well-being.

Conservation Efforts

The Nobbies and surrounding areas hold great ecological significance, and various conservation initiatives have been taken to protect and preserve this remarkable ecosystem. Parks Victoria has collaborated with local authorities and environmental organizations to implement strict regulations for site management. These measures include visitor guidelines, habitat restoration projects, and ongoing research to monitor the marine environment’s health. Phillip Island aims to balance tourism with conservation to maintain the delicate equilibrium between human enjoyment and preserving its natural treasures.

Fast Facts

• Entry toThe Nobbies is free
• Distance/Time – 800 metres return / 20 minutes return
• The easy, primarily flat timber boardwalk around the headland; however, the lower section has steps
• Ample parking at Nobbies Centre (sealed) car park
• Designated Accessible Parking and toilets available
• Suitable for Wheelchairs for approx first 800m of timber boardwalk in the upper-level Pram friendly
• Bicycles and Dogs not permitted

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Autumn colours

During the autumn months, many trees undergo a process called leaf senescence, in which they lose their chlorophyll, and their leaves change colour before falling off the tree.  The exact process that causes the leaves to change colour varies depending on the tree species, but it is usually caused by decreasing daylight hours and temperatures.

The most common colours in autumn leaves are red, orange and yellow.  However, as the chlorophyll breaks down, other pigments in the leaves, such as carotenoids, which produce yellow and orange hues, and anthocyanins which produce red, purple and blue hues,, become more visible.  This process creates a beautiful display of fall foliage lasting for several weeks.  Some of the most popular trees known for their autumn leaves are maple, oak, aspen, and dogwood.

Spring

During the spring months, the gardens in Mount Wilson come to life with vibrant colours as the flowers bloom.  The gardens in Mount Wilson offer a wide variety of flowering trees, shrubs and perennials, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.  The village is also a popular destination for tourists during spring, as many visitors come to see the gardens in full bloom.

Autumn

The gardens in Mount Wilson also offer a different view during autumn, where the fall colours of the leaves and flowers are on full display, making it an ideal place for photography enthusiasts.

Private Gardens

All the gardens at Mount Wilson are private; consequently, not all are open year-round, nor do they offer free entry.  The cost varies from garden to garden but on average, it’s around $10 pp.

Breenhold Gardens

One of the best gardens, if not the best, at Mount Wilson is the heritage-listed Breenhold Gardens.   The garden was established in the early 1900s and covers an area of about 45 hectares.  It is known for its extensive collection of azaleas, rhododendrons, and camellias.  The garden is also home to many other exotic and native plants, including an extensive collection of ferns, a rock garden, and a lily pond.

Breenhold Garden is open to the public during spring and autumn, when the garden is at its best and most plants bloom.  The garden has won several awards for its beauty and has been featured in many gardening magazines.  Breenhold Garden is also a well-known wedding venue in NSW.

An autumn favourite for us when we visited Breenhold was the Laburnum steps and the row of conifers near the entrance.

Featured on better homes and gardens show

29 The Avenue, Mount Wilson NSW 2786, open 10 am to 4 pm daily during autumn and spring

Autumn and spring gardens

Merry Garth: Along Davies Lane to Galwey Lane, Mount Wilson
Open Wednesdays and weekends during April

Nooroo: Church Lane, Mount Wilson 

Sefton Cottage: 21 Church Lane, Mount Wilson

Yengo Sculpture Garden:  11 Queens Ave, Mount Wilson

Open most of the year is Bebeah (with the famous little red gate) at The Avenue, Mt Wilson and Windyridge in Queens Ave, Mt Wilson.   The Cathedral Reserve is also worth a visit with rows of plane trees, limes, elms, beeches, liquid ambers and pink cherries.

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History

Narooma takes its name from the Aboriginal language meaning “clear blue waters”, and with the intense blues and greens of the area’s waters, it’s not hard to see why. After discovering gold in nearby Central Tilba, the town sprung up in 1883. A school was added in 1886, and the post office followed in 1889. The oyster industry was established in 1900. The Narooma Oyster Festival is held in May each year – celebrating the heart of Rock Oyster country.

Getting There

From Sydney, it’s a pleasant 350km drive to Narooma, following the coast along the Princes Highway. The route is 220km via the Kings and Princes Highways from Canberra or 684kms from Melbourne via the Princes Hwy. While the journey from Melbourne is longer, you get to drive through Lakes Entrance, Eden, and Bermagui. All are great seaside towns and deserving of an overnight visit.

Attractions and Landmarks

While we were there for the photography, Narooma had plenty to keep everyone happy.

• Cycle or stroll along the Mill Bay Boardwalk and spot the stingrays, dolphins or seals
• Hit a few balls at the Narooma Golf Club and the famous Hogans Hole.
• A stroll along the surf beach will take you to Glasshouse Rocks
• At Bar Beach, you can enjoy a swim or snorkel in its sheltered waters where NZ and Australian fur seals also enjoy a sunbake
• Forsters Bay is perfect for kayaking around the oyster farms on the western side of town
• Bermagui – Camel Rock and Horse Head rock – only 30 mins away
• Montague Island. It boasts a historic lighthouse and nature reserve. If only we could have gone there. Because there is no bridge, you have to take a ferry – and none were running that day due to a heavy swell, so we missed out. Tours are available from Montague Island Tours or Narooma Charters

Accommodation

We stayed at the Narooma Golfers Lodge, which was very good. While not golfers, we picked it for its views, price and the easy walk to the Golf Club Bistro. They offer clean and comfortable one and two-bedroom apartments at very reasonable prices. Airbnb also has loads of accommodation options in the area, and there are plenty of hotels and motels.

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Hydraulic Sluicing

Hydraulic sluicing is a mining method that employs high-pressure jets of water to blast away large areas of earth and wash it down and through a sluice box. Gold gets caught in the sluice, with the remaining slurry washed away. This mining method is extremely effective but causes significant environmental damage and impacts waterways and agricultural operations. Hydraulic sluicing at the Pink Cliffs Geological Reserve was halted in 1890 due to such damage being wrought on the local landscape.

Miners

The goldfields of Heathcote rang to the sounds of 1270 working miners in 1865. Of these, 1200 were European and 70 Chinese. Miners came to the goldfields from across the globe – from Great Britain, Europe, South Africa, China and Chile. Sailors left ships; farmers walked off farms. Wives accompanied many of the men and set themselves up as bar owners, washerwomen or cooks. As the surface gold became scarce, miners moved onto other goldfields, returned to the farms or obtained jobs with the growing deep mining operators.

The ‘cliffs’ themselves are small hills of the remaining granite, riddled with reddish-brown cracks filled with quartz. The quartz became stained with iron-rich solutions, and erosion has led to the moonscape type appearance.

The Colours

The colours of the cliffs change during the day depending on the type of light. There are two lookouts; according to Parks Victoria, the scenic circuit walk takes 30 mins and takes you past both the upper and lower lookouts. Allow a good hour or more if you have a camera in hand 😉 We visited in the middle of the day, but I would love to go back and see them around sunset.

Location

Park in the carpark opposite 68 Pink Cliffs Road, Heathcote and walk in.

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Aradale

Aradale was designed to hold 250 patients. However, within its sprawling gothic complex of 70 buildings, it housed up to 1000 patients and around 500 staff.

Construction began in 1860, along with two other asylums, Mayday Hills at Beechworth and Willsmere at Kew. The government of the day commissioned the asylums to house the growing number of “lunatics” in Victoria. Aradale opened to its first patients in 1865, sitting high on the hill, looming over Ararat. The large complex was a town within a town. Furthermore, it had its own fire station, workshops, hospital, morgue, market gardens, orchards, vineyards, piggery, and cattle, making it largely self-sufficient from the nearby town. Overcrowding was soon a problem as the building was designed to hold 250 patients. But within 12 months of opening, it exceeded that by 20. By 1876 it housed 400, and extra beds lined the corridors.

The medical thinking was that mental illness was a disease that could be cured by fresh air. Therefore, all three asylums were situated on a hill where the air was cleaner. However, the Victorians also thought that ‘madness’ was contagious. Thus the location of the asylums above and away from the town protected the townfolk.

Ha Ha Walls

Ha Ha walls ringed the asylum preventing escape. A ha-ha wall is a low wall with a steep trench in front of it. This makes it impossible to climb up and out from the inside. However, it remains an attractive low wall that doesn’t give the impression of confinement on the outside.

Committed to Aradale

It wasn’t hard to be diagnosed with a mental illness in Victorian times. while it only two required signatures to be committed eight to be needed to be deemed sane enough to leave. The weekly cost of keeping a patient at Aradale was 14 shillings and 11 pence.

Common diagnoses that would cause being committed during this time period included – Delusional insanity, Dementia, Epilepsy, General paralysis of the insane – A neuropsychiatric disorder brought on by late-stage syphilis, Idiocy, Inebriation, Melancholia, Puerperal mania – Puerperal refers to the postpartum period, usually lasting 6 weeks after the birth of a child (now known as postnatal depression)

Find My Past

Up until the 1880s, Aradale housed child inmates in the same wards as adults. Children accounted for one-quarter of all inmates across the three main asylums in Victoria (Ararat, Beechworth, and Kew). While it is often reported that 13,000 died at Aradale, official sources put the number is closer to 3,000 patients and staff. It is, however, considered one of Australia’s most haunted places, and regular ‘ghost tours’ are held at night.

Treatments

Patient ‘treatment’ included restraint bags, strapped in chairs, isolation boxes, immobilised in hot and cold baths, and, from the 1900s to 1950s, electroshock treatments and drugs such as lithium. However, a shift occurred in thinking to non-institutionalising those with mental illness. As patients were transferred elsewhere, numbers declined. This led to Aradale closing in 1993.

Tours:

Guided tours of Aradale are available every Wednesday and Sunday.

• Tours run for approx 2 hours.
• Tickets from Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre, 91 High Street, Ararat.
• Adults $22, Concession $18, Child 16 and under $5

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1. The Great Ocean Road

Probably the most famous Victorian landscape photography locations is the Great Ocean Road. Rated one of the best cliff-hugging drives in the world the Great Ocean Road was built back in the 1930s by returned servicemen. It starts at the beautiful seaside town of Lorne and hugs the cliff along the Southern Ocean to Apollo Bay before heading inland and winding its way through rolling, green hills to Nelson. Along the way, you will find spectacular views around every corner, beautiful rainforests, epic surf locations including the world-famous Bells Beach, waterfalls, wildlife, redwood forests, and epic hikes.

2. Princes Pier, Port Melbourne

Princes Pier is a 580 metre long, historic pier in Port Melbourne that was built between 1912 – 1915. It was the major arrival port for migrants to Australia during the post-war period. Its use declined over the years and in the early 1990s, it was closed due to its poor condition. Between 1990 and 2004 fourteen fires occurred caused by squatters or vandals. The State Government announced a $14m refurbishment in 2006, restoring the first 196 metres. The remaining decking was removed and the original pylons restored. It reopened in 2007 and is now a favourite haunt of photographers and anglers.

3. Dragon Head Rock

Situated at 16th Beach, one of the Rye back beaches, Dragon Head Rock is a rock formation just off the beach and accessible at low tide. From the front, it’s just a rock, but move to the side and it takes on its distinct shape. If you are a fan of long exposure, smooth water shots – it’s a fabulous location to hone your skills.

4. The Grampians

The heritage-listed Grampians, traditionally known as Gariwerd in aboriginal culture is a mountainous area close to Halls Gap and around 3 hours from Melbourne. It boasts world-famous hiking trails from gentle to challenging, waterfalls, wildlife and mountain panoramas.

5.Warburton

Warburton could be Melbourne’s best-kept secret. While it’s well known to Melbournites it rarely features on any list for tourism. Its set among the hills of the beautiful Yarra Valley and is an easy 90-minute drive from Melbourne. Down by cement creek you will find the Californian Redwood forest. Thousands of towering Redwoods set in rows with a carpet of leaf litter and dotted with mysterious forest art, and a fern gully along the creek at the back make it a magical place. Not far from the Redwood Forest is the Rainforest Gallery – a stunning, easy walk through the forest over bridges above the forest floor and down along streams with tumbling cascades.

Well, there you go, my favourite five, which is not to say there isn’t loads more epic locations. What are your favourite locations in Victoria? love to hear your thoughts.

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The Great Pandemic

I love history and find it fascinating. I like to read about it and watch documentaries. However, I do not enjoy being part of it. We are living through the ‘Great Pandemic of 2020/21’ and, in the future, will probably feature in a school curriculum.

A small silver lining

On Facebook and Instagram, along with many others, I have been sharing previous travel photography as “armchair travels”. One silver lining of armchair travel is, inspired by the locations others are sharing; I am now compiling a list of places to see – for when we can all start moving again.

Photography and travel planning are all we can do now, and I happily spent hours researching destinations and planning itineraries. Costing is something that can’t be done yet as we have no idea what hotels and airlines etc., will charge once they re-open for business. But whilst we can’t travel, we can plan, research, learn, and be ready for when restrictions are lifted, and we can finally head off on a trip.

Location vs Gear

Many people who are into photography subscribe to the theory that they need a better camera or lens to get a great shot. And it’s partly true. But travelling to new destinations or locations is more important than gear. There is no point in having a whizz-bang $5000 camera if you then can’t afford to stray far from home once you have bought it. You may live in a fabulous spot – but you can only photograph the Wanaka Tree so many times.

Planning is everything

Plan your trips. Learn about where you are going and when is the best time to go. Even if it’s a “family” holiday, you can still do travel photography on your trip without spoiling it for them. It’s your holiday too.

1. Research areas, read books, and google the locations. Get as much info as you can before you pick a location. The family will have fun on just about any beach, but if it’s just a stretch of boring white sand, will you?
2. Seasons matter! If somewhere is awesome in autumn for the trees or fantastic in spring for the waterfalls, you are shortchanging yourself being there in summer. Match your destination to the season you are travelling.
3. Plan your road trip stopovers around scenic locations. Ok, you have to sleep somewhere on a road trip, but if one hour further down the road or one hour closer has a fabulous sunrise or sunset spot, that’s the place to lay your head.
4. Take the road less travelled. A secondary highway going through small towns is much more interesting and scenic than mile after mile of main highways. A case in point is the painted silos and water tanks popping up all across Australia. You’ll find them in the towns, not the highway.
5. Slow down and look around as you go through the small towns. Small towns often have quirky old buildings.
6. Pick your accommodation handy to scenic spots. If doing a sunrise or sunset, you are far better off being close to your location rather than looking at a one-hour drive in the dark or getting up at extra stupid o’clock to be there for sunrise
7. Try for a balcony or patio when booking your accommodation. I have gotten some of my best bird shots in the early morning, just sitting on my veranda in my ‘jammies’. It helps to travel with a bag of wild bird seed 😉
8. Talk to the locals and ask for location suggestions But be mindful that they aren’t necessarily photographers. What is a pretty spot to them for a sunrise doesn’t mean it’s ‘worth a shot’. Scout out the location before you want to shoot it. While we found a great spot in Nagambie thanks to a local’s suggestion, we totally failed with a “great sunrise spot”, as suggested by the manager at Mungo Lodge. It was a great spot to see the sunrise, but a terrible location, with no foreground interest, regarding photographing it.
9. Return to locations at least once. You may have got a nice pic – but next time, you may get an even better one, going back in a different season, or if the conditions are just right
10. The early bird gets the worm. The light is soft at sunrise and sunset, but there are fewer people around at sunrise, and you stand a better chance of having the place to yourself. At iconic locations – where even at sunrise there will be a row of tripods and keen photographers, make a thermos of coffee and get there a good hour before sunrise. Find your perfect spot, set up your tripod and camera, and enjoy your coffee while everyone else arrives late and rushes to set up. (again, this is where scouting out the day before helps)

Safety Matters

Early morning starts, and travelling to places for ‘that shot’ is part and parcel of the landscape or travel photographer’s life. But you need to consider your safety and avoid risk where possible. For example, you can’t take that great photo from a coffin or hospital bed.

1. Your car needs to be reliable. Don’t do 4WD roads in a 2WD car. And if you are doing 4wd roads, travel in a convoy. Nothing is worse than breaking down in the middle of nowhere, especially if you are alone. Which leads to #2
2. Don’t go to unsafe or risky areas alone. Early morning shots of the city with empty streets are fabulous. Not if you come across an aggressive or drug-impaired person. No judgment on them, but from experience, it’s scary. Luckily we were in a group. Find a fellow photographer to go out with or join a group.
3. Stay on designated paths and behind the fence. I know there is a great shot to be had by climbing the barrier. But it’s there for a reason. Too many times have I seen on the news where photographers climbed the barrier for a shot, and it ended up a rescue or body retrieval
4. Dress for where you are going. Flip Flops are not recommended footwear for scrub or bush. Snakes, insects, and rocks all love exposed feet. Long sleeves, sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat for summer. Warm clothes, and even better yet, tactical gear that’s windproof, splash-proof, and a down coat with a minimum 650 loft for winter. Like they say in Norway, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing”
5. Buy a rain jacket. Keep a rain jacket in your camera bag. They roll up small and are handy for the unexpected shower, sitting on when the ground is wet, or putting your bag on.
6. Always carry water.
7. Invest in two-way radios If you and your travel buddy are likely to be going off the beaten path with no phone reception. It helps to keep in touch if you are out of sight of each other. If travelling in a convoy, keep one in each car.
8. Put your phone in a ziplock bag. If you are walking with it in your pocket, it could make all the difference if it falls out on a muddy trail
9. Keep spare shoes in the car. It’s no fun driving for hours in wet shoes and socks. Or bare freezing feet. I stopped for some shots once, and my shoes were sodden by the time I got back to the car. Luckily, I had a spare pair in my luggage because we were off for the weekend. Lesson learned.

Camera Bag essentials

I always have a small ’emergency’ kit in my camera bag, which comes in handy on more than one occasion. They take up very little room – but make all the difference if you need them and are an hour’s walk from the car. You’ll thank yourself for packing them in your camera bag.

• Small tubes of sunscreen and insect repellant
• Painkillers
• Torch and/or headlamp (check that it’s working and carry spare batteries)
• Mosquito/fly net for your hat
• A few bandaids and a small container of antiseptic
• A small bag of salt is also handy to have if you are going into a damp or rainforest area known for leeches and you don’t have a smoker in your group. Your insect repellant will also work if it’s DEET.
• Allen key for your tripod if it takes one
• Chocolate or protein bar. Breakfast biscuits are good, too, to fill you up if hunger strikes.

This, too, shall pass

Stay positive. Lockdown won’t last forever. And hopefully, before too much longer, we will be back on the road. Meanwhile, take a landscape course, watch YouTube tutorials, start planning where you will go, and work out what you want to shoot while there.

In the meantime.. stay safe.

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Whale Cruise

We left the apartment around 8.30 am (virtually mid-afternoon to a Queenslander) and headed to Seaworld, which was only about 13mins away.  Massive queue when we got there after queueing for about 20mins we found we were in the wrong queue and were sent to a smaller building for Whale watching/Seaworld tickets.  You can’t buy a combo ticket for that at Seaworld. You have to buy it from the Marina.  I know. It makes no sense to me either.  Queenslanders defy logic.  We wandered over, bought our tickets, and boarded the whale watching vessel.  Very nice, new, and comfy.

Just as we were heading out, we came across a mother and calf in the estuary, which is unusual, so the boat took on the task of herding them back out to sea.

Once out on, we went hunting for whales in earnest and had quite a successful day of sightings. Sadly, whales turned out to be as hard to shoot as birds. They’d be breaching and have a grand old time; the boat would race over, and nothing, nada. Whales gone. Then we’d see them off in the distance again and repeat the process.  Another pod would swim past us a few times as we floated there, waiting for the original show-offs to emerge.  Overall we saw three breachings and many tail flips. Quite a few mothers and calves. And a mother and calf being escorted by a ‘bodyguard’ whale. 

Seaworld

At the end of our cruise, we headed into Seaworld, grabbed lunch and went for a wander around.  The Dolphin and Seal shows were later in the afternoon. And by now, it was hot, and we’d had enough of lugging the massive lenses around, so we headed straight for the polar bear enclosure.

Seaworld had been on our list to visit once we heard that a baby polar bear had been born, and the timing of our holiday coincided with him going on display.  Unfortunately, I think he was asleep in the cave cause we only saw Mumma Bear, and she kept going back to the cave, possibly checking on the cub.  Who remained a no-show sigh  But we did see Mumma Bear. Seaworld is the only place in Australia that still has a polar bear display.

Passing the Dolphin enclosure on the way out, we added a few more tails to our day haul of Tails. It was now 30C in the shade, and we headed back to the car and our apartment for a shower and cold wines.

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