Victoria

Love My Town: Harrow in the spotlight 

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Harrow is a vibrant town and community, way out west in Victoria, Australia, rich in history and character. I moved here a few years ago when I fell in love with a hand-made house (I tell people I moved here for an amazing house, and stayed for the wonderful community), and have never had a moment’s regret. Coming here felt like coming home. In the time I have lived here I have volunteered for community service for the first time, been the editor of the local newsletter, edited a book as part of a five-year community project, learned to contribute to something bigger than my own life, made forever-friends, and become the best version of myself so far. Harrow – where volunteerism has become a fine art – is filled with people with similar stories.

Tonight, Harrow’s people crowded into the local pub to watch the screening of the Harrow episode of ABC TV’s Back Roads, though it was hard to hear it over all the hooting, laughing and congratulating of various folks as they came on screen. It was a crazy, happy night, and one that will be remembered as part of Harrow’s continuing folklore – from 1800s pioneer town to the little village that punches above its weight to remain relevant when other towns are giving up the ghost.

God bless you Harrow, you’ve got a lot to be proud of.

Lake Wallace, Edenhope: pier at dusk, early summer 

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Like many who moved, or were born, here after the drought turned the lake into a puddle (at most), I have never seen Lake Wallace full. But, while the lake itself is lovely, what amazed me most the evening this shot was taken was the foreshore atmosphere: family groups spread along the banks, enjoying a meal and activities with friends and dogs; motor boats on the water; people cruising by; it felt pretty great to among them. 

The locals who grew up here remember it being fuller than it is now, with yachting another favourite pastime. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for a good follow-up season to keep the lake in good health, and bring visitors to this special part of Victoria. 

Postcard From Portarlington: Melbourne across the bay 

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A change of plans has created an opportunity to visit the seaside during turbulent spring weather conditions, and it’s good to be back in the city of Geelong, which I’ve come to really enjoy. 

Fujifilm X30 at full telephoto; mild edits and border applied in Snapseed app. 

Harrow, Western Victoria: most irresistible town!

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According to a recent list published in a leading newspaper, my town of Harrow, in southwest Victoria, Australia, is one of Australia’s top 50 “most irresistible, exotic, historic and postcard-worthy small towns in Australia”. The list has caused a stir by many who are disappointed their favourite town wasn’t mentioned. While I understand that such a list is ultimately very subjective, I am very proud of my village and its community. Last night I paid $3 to attend a yin yoga class at the bush nursing centre, and today I wandered around the street and river in gumboots, feeling very much a part. Congratulations, Harrow – this recognition is well-earned. 

Yallakar State Forest: the first GREENHOODS 

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I went for a ramble into Yallakar, west of Harrow, a few days ago and was rewarded with finding my first sighting of greenhood orchids of the wildflower season. As with much in life, it was only when I stopped looking that I saw them! 

Panasonic Lumix GX7, Panasonic Leica 45mm macro lens. Cropped and border applied in Snapseed app. 

Overlook and Overlooked: admiring an abandoned homestead 

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Several times I have driven past this lovely, lonesome homestead, with its enviable pastoral views, promising to one day stop. When I finally did stop, it was only to gaze longingly up at it from the padlocked gate, wishing I could get permission for a closer look. 

Fujifilm X30 with in-camera B&W(Red) filter; adjustments and border applied in Snapseed app.