Wednesday, 1 April 2026

DISTANT SEA VIEW

Port Phillip Bay viewed from a Southbank apartment. The view is quickly disappearing as new high rise buildings are coming up like toadstools...

This post is part of the Roentare’s Water Meme,
and also part of the Nature Notes meme


Tuesday, 31 March 2026

AGNES FALLS, GIPPSLAND

Tucked away within the green, hills of the Strzelecki Ranges, the meandering Agnes River cascades from a 59m height over rocks into a deep gorge, forming Agnes Falls. They are surrounded by protected pockets of old forest and native bushland.

With impressive views, cascading waterfalls, much native wildlife and its protected forest, Agnes Falls is a hidden patch of serenity near the Gippsland coastline. A short drive from Toora or Welshpool, it's also a beautiful, scenic stop on a day trip exploring South Gippsland.

A 200m walking track leads from the car park to the falls viewing area, where  the Agnes River can be seen tumbling over rocks and into the steep, sheltered gorge below. The falls are even more spectacular in wet seasons and after heavy rain.

The reserve protects a small remnant of the dense forests that once covered the Strzelecki Ranges, and the tall eucalypt canopy and diverse understorey of shrubs, ferns and trees are home to a range of birdlife. Keep an eye out for playful Grey Fantails and Eastern Yellow Robins darting through the low trees and shrubs, and listen for the calls of Kookaburras, Crimson Rosellas and Currawongs.

This post is part of the Travel Tuesday meme
and also part of the Roentare’s Water Meme




Saturday, 28 March 2026

HONEYBROWN BEETLE

This insect is a Honeybrown Beetle (specifically Ecnolagria grandis), also commonly known as a Brown Darkling Beetle.  These beetles are native to south-eastern mainland Australia and Tasmania. They are identified by their golden-brown bodies covered in very short hairs and a thorax that is noticeably narrower than their wing cases (elytra).

They typically have a golden-brown or coppery color, though some individuals may appear slightly more violet or metallic. Adults are slow fliers and are often found resting motionlessly on leaves or hiding among dry fallen leaves and grasses. They primarily feed on dead plant matter and fungi. These beetles are commonly found in forests, woodlands, heaths, and urban gardens.

This post is part of the Saturday Critters meme


Thursday, 26 March 2026

"TEDDY BEARS"

'Teddy Bear' sunflowers (Helianthus annuus), are a popular double-flowered cultivar known for their lush, fluffy, and rounded appearance. Unlike traditional sunflowers with a dark central disk, 'Teddy Bear' sunflowers have petals that cover the entire flower head, giving them a soft, pom-pom-like look.

They are typically a compact, dwarf variety, often growing between 60-100 cm tall, making them well-suited for pots, small garden spaces, or as a short hedge. They are frequently grown for their ornamental value and make excellent, cheerful cut flowers. Care: Like most sunflowers, they are sun-loving annuals that are relatively easy to grow and perform best with regular watering during their flowering period.

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme