Spring splendour

Posted on November 4, 2015 by kathy

Spring is marching on and the bulbs are just a memory. Despite the driest and warmest October on record, there are many new faces in the garden. The crocuses (or croci) pop up in surprising places

The California poppies and Oriental poppies feel free to wander

The fairy irises are scattered around the garden and flower though spring and summer

The rhododendron orbs add splashes of colour

The Geraldton Wax and Banksia do a great job of disguising the rainwater tank

I’m pleased to say the snowball tree has survived a severe pruning

After much searching, I managed to identify the Pieris (lily of the valley shrub)

The yellow Waratah is a late bloomer

as is the port wine Magnolia

A cosy nest has served it’s purpose

There are a few annuals I haven’t been able to identify

We are hoping for a fine crop of berries this year – the Sylvanberry blossoms are promising

Our very handsome North Wind Man keeps a protective eye on his domain

stunning Stanley

Posted on November 2, 2015 by kathy

One of our favourite places in Tasmania is the small fishing village of Stanley on the northwest coast. Only an hours drive away, it is a must to show off to visitors. The iconic landmark, The Nut, becomes visible from the highway

and as you get nearer, you can see the township snuggled in at the base. The Nut is an old volcanic plug, first named Circular Head when discovered in 1826.

Highfield House is a fine example of a home from the Regency period. Built over three years from 1832 to 1835 it is set on a hillside with magnificent views across Stanley and Bass Strait. Visit historic-highfield.com.au

The house has been beautifully restored and maintained.

A wander through the house and grounds connects you with the fascinating history of the area.

Convict labour was used at the estate and the remnants of the convict barracks can be found close by.

The old post and rail fencing has so much character.

A stroll along Godfrey’s Beach rewards with impressive scenery and a different perspective of The Nut.

A walk around the flat top of The Nut is the best way to view Stanley and surrounds.

There is a zig-zag walking path to the top but with a 143 metre climb, the chairlift ride up and walk down is an appealing option.

The town is very quaint, the terraced streets and heritage buildings have changed little since the first Europeans arrived in 1826.

Most of the buildings are now home to interesting shops, accommodation and cafés.

Spoilt for choice when it comes to meals, I don’t think you can do better than the Stanley Hotel.

If you are lucky, you will catch a rainbow at East Inlet on the way home.

Last year, Hollywood came to Stanley for the filming of “The Light Between the Oceans”. The streets were filled with gravel and the town was transformed to 1926. The movie will be released next year…..and maybe Stanley will become famous.

spectacular skies

Posted on October 30, 2015 by kathy

Our diverse weather patterns here in northwest Tassie bring some amazing cloud formations. Storm clouds on the horizon hold the promise of rain (much needed at the moment).

Early sunset still reflects the blue of the day.

Other sunsets are more dramatic

and a striking sunrise heralds a new day.

gorgeous gorge

Posted on October 16, 2015 by kathy

Last Sunday, we ventured to Launceston to catch up with our friends from Darwin. We spent a glorious spring morning at Cataract Gorge, a unique, natural formation close to the city centre.

Cataract Gorge Reserve covers 192 hectares at the lower section of the South Esk River.

The nesting swans have a spectacular home.

There are many walking tracks and lookouts offering fabulous views.

The Alexandra Suspension Bridge was built in 1940 to connect the two sides of the river.

A short pause midway rewarded us with a great view upstream.

The chairlift is a relaxing way to travel from First Basin to the Cliff Grounds. Built in 1972, it is the longest single-span chairlift in the world

and presents a different perspective from above.

The swimming pool, presumably empty for winter maintenance, is a very popular place in the warmer months.

The Cliff Grounds are serene, with sweeping lawns and variant displays of colour radiating from the many azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias and exotic plants

as well as ferns bursting forth with new fronds.

The Gorge Restaurant showcases Tasmania’s finest produce and wines

while the kiosk offers casual dining and the perfect terrace to enjoy a beverage.

The resident peacocks turn up in some surprising places.

Some are happy to quietly display their magnificent plumage

others feel the need to show off

and the girls just get on with it.

The wallabies are a little more bashful, especially with baby on board.

Don’t miss the experience of Cataract Gorge when you next visit Launceston.

rainforest reflections

Posted on October 10, 2015 by kathy

At first glance, our property has a nice, cedar clad house, surrounded by a large garden, surrounded by a few paddocks. What is not immediately obvious, is the other 40 acres of untouched rainforest. A short stroll through the western paddock finds a gateway to nature’s wonderland. The path should be taken slowly, not only because of the steep gradient but also to appreciate the expanse of manferns embracing the hillside.