tiabunna's photos

Stitched panorama. Mouse over left peak to see as large. Explored.

This Sulphur-crested Cockatoo (Cacatua galerita) sat near us and watched as we enjoyed an outdoors coffee in Halls Gap.

Like many Australian mountain areas, the Grampians rise abruptly from the surrounding flat terrain.

I was busily taking photos of the masses of birdlife which descended on our camp, but I was oblivious for some time to this large Eastern Grey kangaroo who had sidled up to within a metre of me and seemed fascinated by this photography business. So I stepped back and took his portrait: he was nearly as tall as me!

Looking across the Grampians National Park in western Victoria.

From an old slide. Scenes such as this are quite uncommon, though typically the east coast is calmer than the west. Usually the Southern Ocean is rough, the wind strong and accompanied by rain and/or fog, which makes the rare good sunrise feel absolutely magical. Slide taken with Minolta SR1 and Rokkor 35mm lens.

See note on main shot for second photo. It must be said that, in Australia at least, there are few job vacancies for Town Criers. But about two years ago, Alan found himself cast in that role. And I'd say it's one he thoroughly relishes. After seeing the position advertised he went for auditions and was an instant hit. So he was appointed by the Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory as the official ACT Town Crier. He is a member of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Australian Town Criers and also of the Australian Society for Creative Anachronism. Being probably the only Town Crier in the region, Alan told me that he is in demand most weekends for community events, not only in the ACT but also in neighbouring towns and villages such as Braidwood and Michelago, where I found him at the May Fair. For a fee, he also provides his services at weddings. It was great seeing you and work and meeting you Alan, thank you for your time and I hope you like the photos. This picture is 15 in my 100 strangers project. Find out more about the project and see pictures taken by other photographers at the 100 Strangers Flickr Group page

I'm fairly certain that these are the flowers of the Victorian "Common Heath" ( Epacris impressa Var. grandiflora ). In any case there was plenty growing among the rocky mountains of the Grampians.

Second photo with note. Pied Currawongs are similar to Magpies, but with less extensive white markings: essentially just underwing and tail trimmings. And those eyes!