Melbourne Daily Photo

Australia Day 2012

2012-01-26T22:03:00.002+11:00

What is Australia Day?
Once again it is the 26th of January - Australia Day ~ our national day. It is a day when we celebrate our country as a nation and join in festivities and ceremonies. It is a day when people get together and have a barbie, wear some Australiana and bend the elbow.

Above: The Australian flag and some of our native wildlife.

From the top left-hand corner going in a clock wise direction:
The Kookaburra, Bandicoot, Platypus, Koala, Leadbeater's Possum, Echidna, Wombat, Fairy Penguins, Kangaroo.

Why the 26th January?
It was the date of arrival of the "First Fleet" ~ In 1788, Captain Arthur Phillip landed in Sydney Cove and so began settlement. The First Fleet consisted of eleven ships - The Alexander, The Borrowdale, The Charlotte, The Fishburn The Friendship The Golden Grove, The Lady Penrhyn, The Prince of Wales, The Scarborough, H.M.S. Sirius and H.M.S. Supply.

Above: The Founding of Australia. By Capt. Arthur Phillip R.N. Sydney Cove, Jan. 26th 1788
Painted in 1937 by Algernon Talmage (1871 – 1939)

We Are Australian

Dream-Time: According to Aboriginal belief, long, long ago in the far distant past; the great spirit ancestors of the Dreamtime created everything living ~ the people, the birds, the animals and fish, the rivers and waterholes, hills and rocks. The Dreamtime is the story of creation.

Convict: A person found guilty of something - often as little as stealing a loaf of bread or a political prisoner sent to transportation to Australia.
Digger: Aussie soldier
Bushy: Person who lives in the outback, the "bush"
Battler: Someone who works hard and barely scrapes by and holds their head up high in the face of adversity
Albert Namatjira: Famous Aboriginal painter of Australian landscapes
Clancy: Drover immortalised in the Banjo's poem "Clancy of the Overflow"
Ned Kelly: Famous Australian bushranger
Matilda: Name given to a bushman's "swag"
The Rock: Ayers Rock/Uluru

THIS LAND OF OURS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This land of ours so red and vast
Doth stretch before the eye
And show unto me all the beauty
Of a far and distant past.

Of gums so tall
And eucalypt
They tower o'er me
And sweet their fragrance to inhale
Their beauty for to see.

Oh yes, this precious land of mine
With all your beauty free
And listen to the sweet carol
Of birds in fancy free.

My country you are more to me
Than earth of fire or sky
For I shall love this land of ours
Until the day I die.

Today's quote: Love your country. Your country is the land where your parents sleep, where is spoken that language in which the chosen of your heart, blushing, whispered the first word of love; it is the home that God has given you that by striving to perfect yourselves therein you may prepare to ascend to him. ~Giuseppe Mazzini

Theme Day: Photo of the year 2011

2012-01-01T08:15:00.000+11:00

Above: The Red Teapot
Photo taken December 2011 in Queen's Park. I chose this photo not because it is the best but because it represents the past (old year) and the present (new year).

The Cenotaph represents the past while the red teapot children's ride signifies the present.

To see photos of 2011 from other bloggers Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's quote: We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day ~ Edith Lovejoy Pierce

La Guillotine électriques...?

2011-06-10T16:34:00.000+10:00

Above: La Guillotine
This pylon does look a little like the (in)famous La Guillotine of the French Revolution only with a modern twist - powered by electricity!

Did you know
The guillotine was still in use in the 1930's! The last public guillotining was of Eugen Weidmann, who was convicted of six murders. He was beheaded on 17 June 1939, outside the prison Saint-Pierre rue Georges Clemenceau 5 at Versailles.

Click here to see other skies around the world

Today's quote: There is only one cure for gray hair. It was invented by a Frenchman. It is called the guillotine ~ P. G. Wodehouse.

The Statue

2011-06-09T19:52:00.000+10:00

Aphrodite washes her hair

Whereabouts is this - Greece? Italy? You could be forgiven for thinking you were somewhere in the warmth of the Mediterranean, with the warm hues and the statue of the goddess with the shapely limbs as she washes her hair..But no, you are not in the Mediterranean, for this photo was taken right here in Melbourne.

This classical artwork is the centrepiece of Milano serviced apartments in the heart of Melbourne's CBD in Franklin Street.

Today's quote: For every beauty there is an eye somewhere to see it. For every truth there is an ear somewhere to hear it. For every love there is a heart somewhere to receive it ~ Ivan Panin

The Wire

2011-06-08T17:46:00.000+10:00

The lines of modern living

Today's quote: The difference between utility and utility plus beauty is the difference between telephone wires and the spider web ~ Edwin Way Teale

Federation Square - Urban Garden Amphitheatre

2011-06-07T03:29:00.000+10:00

Above: Urban Garden Amphitheatre

A sign reads,
"Hi there, you're in the Urban Garden Amphitheatre.
Enjoy it. It's yours.
Stretch out on the grass.
Or pull up a seat."

Federation Square’s most intimate outdoor space - The Amphitheatre. Encircled by zinc-clad walls with views across Flinders Street onto St Paul’s Cathedral, this unique venue lets you get close to the action at events like the Comedy Festival, the Melbourne International Arts Festival and festivals celebrating the colourful and vibrant culture of those who have come from other lands.

Walking down the steps is the "Urban Garden"

Today's quote: No two gardens are the same, no two days are the same in one garden ~ Hugh Johnson

Theme Day - Under Construction

2011-06-01T00:10:00.001+10:00

Above: Redevelopment Project
Virtually everything here was destroyed or damaged when the Black Saturday bushfires of 7 February 2009 swept through and hit the falls reserve with such ferocity. The Steavenson Falls Recovery and Redevelopment estimated to cost around $3 million, has started. It is a massive job, and the only salvageable piece of infrastructure was the hydro-electric generator that powered the lighting system that lit up the falls at night. Before the fires, the reserve attracted up to 150,000 visitors a year and was a major regional tourist attraction.

Hazardous trees impacted by the fire are being removed as part of the recovery program - many of the trees are dead but could remain standing for several years as they decompose and eventually fall and if left unmanaged, the trees and limbs present a substantial risk to visitors and workers within the reserve.

Stage one of the redevelopment included reconstruction of Falls Road to allow visitor access, a new car park and bus parking area, a new viewing platform at the base of the falls, as well as significant underground drainage and service infrastructure.

The next stage of works will involve construction of toilet and visitor facilities, walking tracks and a spectacular viewing platform of the falls and is expected to be completed by winter 2011.

Above: Steavenson Falls Before Black Saturday
I took this photo a few short weeks before the fire swept through. Note the metal object on a pole on the left hand side in the foreground.

Above: Steavenson Falls After Black Saturday
This photo was taken November, 2010 - 21 months after the fire in almost the same place as the previous photo. The Falls were re-opened to the public eight weeks earlier.

Theme Day: Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's quote: Nature often holds up a mirror so we can see more clearly the ongoing processes of growth, renewal, and transformation in our lives.

Skywatch Friday

2011-05-20T06:56:00.000+10:00

Above: Sun on Water
Taken just after 5.00pm as the sun was slowly sinking.

Click here to see other skies around the world.

Today's quote: A person should go out on the water on a fine day to a small distance from a beautiful coast, if he would see Nature really smile. Never does she look so delightful, as when the sun is brightly reflected by the water, ~Augustus William Hare and Julius Charles Hare, Guesses at Truth, by Two Brothers, 1827

ANZAC Day

2011-04-25T23:55:00.003+10:00

Today, the 25th of April is Anzac Day. Ninety-six years ago today, Australian troops landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula.... It was dawn, Sunday the 25th April 1915 when they rushed from the beach up to Plugge's Plateau and into Australian military history, suffering many casualties on the way.
Troops from New Zealand landed at Gallipoli just after midday... Together the Australians and New Zealanders gave birth to the Anzac legend.

ANZAC TRIBUTE
I have put together a collection of original photoshots from the First World War, in honour of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who gave their yesterday for our tomorrow. Brave men who fought with courage, deternination and gave birth to the legend of the ANZACS. From them came the meaning of mateship and standing by your mates.

This tribute includes the first Anzac Day - the landing at Anzac Cove on Sunday 25th April 1915. Also included are shots of Passchendaele, Ypres, Voormezeele - names steeped in history - marches and photos taken by the soldiers.

The events on this first day set the course of the whole battle, and led to the evacuation of the Anzac troops in December 1915.

Our Diggers
The nickname "Digger" is said to be attributed to the number of ex-gold diggers in the early army units and to the trench digging activities of the Australian soldiers during World War I. The actual origin of the name has been lost in time but the Australian soldier is known affectionately around the world as the Digger.

Above: Anzacs

The legend of ANZAC was born on 25 April 1915, and was reaffirmed in eight months’ fighting on Gallipoli. Although there was no military victory, the Australians displayed great courage, endurance, initiative, discipline, and mateship. Such qualities came to be seen as the ANZAC spirit.

Many saw the ANZAC spirit as having been born of egalitarianism and mutual support. According to the stereotype, the ANZAC rejected unnecessary restrictions, possessed a sardonic sense of humour, was contemptuous of danger, and proved himself the equal of anyone on the battlefield.

Australians still invoke the ANZAC spirit in times of conflict, danger and hardship.

Above: The Last Anzac
Alexander William Campbell, known as Alec was our last surviving Anzac and our last living link with the Anzac landing at Gallipoli and the Aussies who began the Anzac legend. He died on 16th May, 2002 at the grand age of 103 years.

Alec, born in Launceston, Tassie on 26 February 1899, lied about his age when he was 16, so he could join the army without his parents permission. He was so young and hadn't even started shaving and the other men in his battalion knicknamed him "The Kid"

Today's quote: One is left with the horrible feeling now that war settles nothing; that to win a war is as disastrous as to lose one ~ Agathe Christie

Easter Sunday

2011-04-24T05:23:00.000+10:00

May this Easter bring you happiness, joy and love, and may you find new meaning in the world around you.

Above: The Resurrection
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Christ has died,
Christ is risen,
Christ will come again.
Alleluia.

Above: Antique Easter cards

The History of the Easter Card
We send cards for different celebrations, but do you know when the first Easter card appeared? The tradition began in the 19th century. In 1898, the first Easter cards were postcards - mail requirements for postcards stated one side was for an address and the other side was for a greeting which left little space for a long message. Mail requirements eventually changed to the familiar postcard design we see today.
Rabbits, lambs, flowers and bunnies were some of the first images to appear on Easter cards. Today, these postcards are now larger and folded in half with a picture appearing on the front and a greeting on the inside with room for the sender to write a message.

Above: The Easter egg
The egg is a symbol of the start of new life, just as new life emerges from an egg when the chicken hatches out. And so we give an "Easter" egg at Easter. The Easter eggs of old which were hard-boiled eggs painted with coloured paints and decorated have now been replaced with chocolate eggs.

Today's quote: The resurrection gives my life meaning and direction and the opportunity to start over no matter what my circumstances ~ Robert Flatt

Reflection in a Mirror

2011-04-17T10:10:00.001+10:00

Above: Floral Fantasy
On a recent trip, I wanted to photograph this floral arrangement at my accommodation place and received an unexpected result - me. I'd forgotten about the mirror.

Click here to see other weekend reflections.

Today's quote: I love mirrors, they let one pass through the surface of things ~ Claude Chabrol

Frogmore Road

2011-04-12T14:13:00.001+10:00

Above: Frogmore Road

This oil ochre artwork on linen was created by Australian artist Mandy Martin in 2005 and hangs in the rooms of the RACV Club in Melbourne. It is composed of three panels and measures 183 x 406 cm.

About the artist:
Mandy was born in Adelaide in 1952 and studied at the SA School of Art from 1972 - 1975. A lecturer at the School of Art, Australian National University from 1978 to 2003, she was a Fellow of Australian National University from 2003 to 2007.

Mandy Martin is a practicing artist who has held numerous exhibitions in Australia, Mexico and the USA. She has exhibited widely in curated exhibitions in Australia, France, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, USA, and Italy. Her works are in many public and private collections including the National Gallery of Australia and major state galleries and collections. In the USA she is represented in the Guggenheim Museum, New York; the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and many private collections. She lives in the Cowra region, New South Wales, Australia.

You can find out more about Mandy here.

Today's quote: I dream of painting and then I paint my dream ~ Vincent Van Gogh

Mirrored Reflections

2011-04-03T14:33:00.000+10:00

Above: The Maribyrnong
Another shot of the Afton Street pedestrian bridge over the Maribyrnong River.

Today's quote: Rivers are roads which move, and which carry us whither we desire to go ~Blaise Pascal

Go to San Fransisco Bay Daily Photo to see other Sunday Bridges around the world

Go to Newtown Area Photo to see other weekend reflections around the world

The Birds

2011-04-02T02:18:00.001+11:00

Above: The Birds
You could be forgiven for thinking you have just stepped into an Alfred Hitchcock movie -
remember ..... "The Birds"?

What Is It?
This is actually part of the Scar Project which is located at Enterprize Park. Indigenous people would traditionally take pieces of bark from some trees to make canoes, shields or baby cradles and these 'scar trees' would serve as a signpost for other clans to let them know they had entered the land of another community. The "Scar Project" is representative of these scar trees and was constructed by Indigenous artists who used original wharf poles from Queens Bridge.

The Weekend In Black and White

Today's quote: Can I bring the lovebirds, Mitch? They haven't harmed anyone ~ Cathy Brenner.

Southern Cross Station, (Theme Day: Edges)

2011-04-01T03:11:00.001+11:00

Above: Southern Cross Railway Station
I've chosen this photo because I like the wavy edges of the roofline. I was standing on the edge of the road when I took this shot. The station is in Spencer Street from the corner of Collins Street to Little Collins Street to Bourke Street - that's a lotta station and a lotta roofline.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's quote: A border, the perimeter of a single massive or stretched-out use of territory forms the edge of an area of 'ordinary' city. Often borders are thought of as passive objects, or matter-of-factly just as edges. However, a border exerts an active influence ~ Jane Jacobs

Pigeon loft - Batman Park

2011-03-30T16:40:00.000+11:00

Walking along the northern side of the Yarra towards Spencer Street, I came upon this interesting structure. On taking a closer look, it turns out it is a pigeon loft, created to entice the pigeons away from the CBD.

This pigeon loft was placed here in Batman Park as part of the City of Melbourne's pigeon management programe and is intended as an alternative home for the city's pigeons especially those around the Town Hall, City Square and Bourke Street Mall.

Pigeons in the city have been a nuisance for decades and their droppings cause uncleanliness generally and also damage to city's buildings. Sitting in Federation Square you're surrounded by them.

The loft is painted with light coloured corrosion resistant to reflect the heat and minimise internal over-heating. It houses two hundred nesting boxes for pigeon breeding. Eggs laid will be replaced with artificial eggs intended as a humane way to control and reduce pigeon numbers.

Bird feeding around the loft base is permitted to attract birds out of the CBD to this area. Bird feeding is not permitted in any other area around the CBD.

I wonder if people had a problem in the old days when pigeons were used to carry messages? Perhaps governments could re-introduce this practise - think of the savings you'd make not having to buy postage stamps!

Today's quote: I don't mind being a symbol but I don't want to become a monument. There are monuments all over the Parliament Buildings and I've seen what the pigeons do to them ~ Tommy Douglas.

Gents Dress Instructions - Ruby Tuesday

2011-03-29T03:09:00.005+11:00

Gentlemen please...

Bistro signage
Gentlemen you have been warned! When attending please ensure that your dress is appropriate...'Twould be an interesting exercise to find out just what is considered appropriate attire for gents.

I love this sign don't you? It's in the bar of one of my favourite drinking places in the Melbourne CBD - the Mitre Tavern, which I posted about HERE.

Ladies Loo Limericks
And in the ladies loo, the walls are festooned with limericks. They have all been...laundered. Still, it's out of the ordinary, I mean to say - how many toilets do you know that have limericks written on the wall? And with pictures too!

Above: Ladies Loo

I love limericks, they're my favourite of all rhymes. Yes, I know they don't have the classiness of prose nor are they in the "blue-stocking" league, but limericks are short, easily remembered and most of all funny. Well, the "unlaundered" ones are!

Above: Limericks

Above: Limerick
As I said, the limericks on the walls have been "laundered"

The limerick packs laughs anotomical
In a spaced which is quite economical
But the good ones I've seen
So seldom are clean
And the clean ones so seldom are comical!

Click here to see all participants of My World Tuesday

This is my contribution for Ruby Tuesday

Today's quote: Laughter is the best medicine ~ old proverb.

Space Lights

2011-03-27T18:54:00.001+11:00

Metal in Motion

Above: "Space Lights"
I'm not too sure what this piece of metal artwork is supposed to represent, but to me it appears like something from an outer space or futuristic movie. The upturned sheets remind me of flower petals facing the sun. What do you think?

Above: The other side
This shot taken from around the other side. This artwork is near the RACV Club in Bourke Street in the Melbourne CBD.

Edit: I received a return phone call from David at the RACV Club who informed me this piece of sculpture is called "Shadow Form III" and was created by Western Australian artist Robert Juniper.

About the artist
Robert, born in Western Australia in the wheatbelt town of Merredin in 1929 studied industrial design and commercial art at the Beckenham School of Art in England before returning home to WA. He paints, teaches art and has held many exhibitions. In 1992, he designed the coat of arms for the Commonwealth Law Courts in Perth and his artwork is held in numerous collections including the Australian National Gallery, National Gallery of Victoria, Parliament House Canberra and art galleries in WA, Queensland and NSW.

In 2011, he was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to the visual arts. You can find out more about Robert Juniper HERE.

Today's quote: At some point we’ve got to stop asking ourselves what is the meaning of everything, maybe it’s not so very important what it means. It’s probably more important what the sense of it is.. they are two very basic and different things ~ Tony Cragg

The Cup

2011-03-27T05:02:00.000+11:00

Above: Self portrait?
It wasn't until afterwards thatI realised I could see myself reflected in the tea cup.

Click here to see reflections around the world.

Today's quote: O, happy the soul that saw its own faults ~ Mevlana Rumi

Children of Laos, Burma & Thailand

2011-03-26T15:20:00.004+11:00

Some have asked me to post some photos of my recent trip to SEA, so I give you today a photo of an Akha family and a video of some of the children I met, which I've set to a famous Chinese song called "Liang Zhu". Seeing temples and other attractions are nice, but I loved seeing the children and "talking" with them. They are so open and friendly although many are very shy. I just squatted down and spent time with them. It was heart-warming seeing their little faces light up when they smiled

Above: Akha Mother & Baby
The Akha are a hill tribe people known for their beautiful handcraft and artistry. You can read more about these people here.

The children of Laos, Thailand and Burma (Myanmar)

Some of the children I met live in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Luang Prabang, but most of these children live in villages. Some villages are very poor and have little in the way of modern conveniences, yet they have a closeness with each other that you can feel when on your first encounter. Temples and "attractions" are nice, but the time I spent with these children means more to me and it is this memory that I hold dear.

Today's quote: Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man ~ Rabindranath Tagore

Mekong Sunset

2011-03-25T10:20:00.001+11:00

Above: Sunset over the Mekong
This was taken after we'd docked at the slowboat landing and were trudging up the walkway to Luang Prabang.

To see other skies around the world click here.

Today's quote: Sunsets are so beautiful that they almost seem as if we were looking through the gates of Heaven ~ John Lubbock

Mitre Tavern - Melbourne's Oldest Building

2011-03-23T01:53:00.001+11:00

My favourite pub in the Melbourne CBD is the Mitre Tavern where the beer is good, the barmaids are pretty and the barmen are good-looking! (and flirtable). It has a great atmosphere and you feel like you've stepped back in time and you're in a country pub.

Above: Mitre Tavern
It's the oldest building in Melbourne and when it was first built in 1836 there were gum trees and paddocks all around. The place may be overshadowed by tall buildings and office blocks today, but this little pub remains a favourite and it's not just for the historical significance either.

Above: Timber shutters
As you can see here, there are (solid) timber shutters combined with window plants and brass nameplate. A double storey cement rendered brick building on a bluestone foundation.

A little bit of history
The Tavern was altered in 1868 and the first publican was Henry Thompson. Around 1900-1910, it was altered quite a bit more ~ Queen Anne style additions were constructed using Marseille pattern terra cotta tiles on a gable roof with half timbered gable ends. On the western side of the Tavern, a brick building was added and the windows have been altered. The Queen Anne style was very popular around the time of Federation. (Federation was 1901)

There are three bars and staff rooms on the ground floor and two dining rooms and service rooms upstairs on the first floor.
The Mitre Tavern is classified by the National Trust and is on the Victorian Heritage Register and is protected by state law.

Above: Al Fresco
These cane chairs not only look good, they're comfortable too. Just the spot for a quiet drink or tête-à-tête.

A Bit of Trivia
It is said that Sir Rupert Clarke's mistress Connie Waugh hung herself in the Mitre and her ghost haunts the halls and rooms of the tavern. Indeed, the last time I was at the Mitre (it was a Saturday) as night fell, a Ghost tour group came our way (we were sitting in the beer garden) and the guide proceeded to fill in all the grizzly details.

Above: Drinker's Corner
One thing about Melbourne - we know how to do things in style. This is the area I have dubbed "Drinker's Corner" - there's some serious drinking done here where suits rub shoulders with labourers and blokes from all walks of life stand and have a beer. Note the 'table' - a beer barrel.

Above: Beer Garden
This is the largest beer garden in the CBD and surrounded on three sides by buildings, it's sheltered by the wind. A good choice in winter and for the summer, you get a bit of a breeze from the laneway.

Mitre Tavern is located in one of Melbourne's laneways - Bank Place which runs between Collins and Little Collins Street. The beer garden is in Mitre Place which is off Bank Place. The Tavern is still in use today as it was originally - a Club/Hotel/Coffee Palace. So next time you're in Melbourne, make sure to pop in to the Mitre where you'll have a rip-roaring time where the beer flows, conversation keeps going and the pub grub is hearty and there are 34 different beers.

Today's quote: Beer is proof that God loves us, and wants us to be happy ~ Benjamin Franklin

An Op-Art Roof?

2011-03-21T22:42:00.000+11:00

Above: Domed Waves
The warm colours of the retail area coupled with a futuristic light-filled roof and trees growing in the centre make this a joy to shop. This is the "Paris end" of Chadstone Shopping Centre, aka Chaddy where you will find goods and fashion from the lower end of the scale to the very top. Think - Louis Vuitton, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Jimmy Choo, Tiffany... and you'll get an idea of just what lies under this gorgeous roofline.

Oh, and did I also say that "Chaddy" is the largest shopping centre in Australia!

Today's quote: If men liked shopping, they'd call it research ~ Cynthia Nelms

Bridge over the River Kwai

2011-03-20T23:41:00.000+11:00

Above: River Kwai Bridge
This black iron bridge was brought from Java by the Japanese supervision by Allied prisoner-of-war labour as part of the Death Railway linking Thailand with Burma.

The bridge is still in use today and was the target of frequent Allied bombing raids during World War II and was rebuild after war ended. The curved spans of the bridge are the original sections. A daily train still follows the historical route from Kanchanaburi to Nam Tok Station. Over 13,000 POW's died building the track work.

If you're interested in reading about the building of the train line and the most infamous cutting, Click here to read about it on my other blog.

Today's quote: There are no bridges in folk songs because the peasants died building them ~ Eugene Chadbourne

Thorn

2011-02-07T00:21:00.000+11:00

Above: "Thorn" by Richard Kloester

"Thorn" was born from the Earth in Chillagoe, Queensland, from a rather unusual looking marble boulder which took the shape of a thorn. Thousands of years of water passing over this marble boulder have sculpted it into what looked man-made. Hence, Thorn was carved to look back up into the sky from where its original sculptor came - rain.
This unique sculpture is made of Chillagoe marble and steel.

About the artist
"My background in scupture began at the age of 12, when I acquired my first set of carving tools. Since then I have pursued many different mediums such as wood, stone, clay and most recently bronze. Over the years I have improved on my skills by completing a degree in industrial design with distinction where I was placed on the Dean's list. I deviated from my art education into computer animation and three-dimensional modelling when I worked within television and flight simulation projects, and where attention to detail had to be flawless. I then came full circle back to sculpture in its true tangible form where raw emotion is transformed into sculpture that you can touch."
These are the words of the artist, Richard Kloester.

I never tire of looking at this it is so magnificent - just looking at that face and those eyes - eyes which are soulful with a hint of sadness in them. As if they have seen too much.The lines around the mouth and the lips themselves look as though they have known pain and suffering.

Today's quote ~ The eyes indicate the antiquity of the soul ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Weekend Reflections - The River

2011-02-06T17:16:00.000+11:00

Above: The Maribyrnong

Another shot of the Maribyrnong, taken at 12.30pm. Photo faces east. The left side is a popular route for walkers and cyclists which forms part of the Maribyrnong River Trail.

Click here to see other weekend reflections around the world.

Today's quote: A river seems a magic thing. A magic, moving, living part of the very earth itself ~ Laura Gilpin

Skywatch Friday

2011-02-05T19:26:00.000+11:00

Above: Darkening shadows

Taken about 4.00PM facing west - suddenly the sky darkened as clouds appeared seemingly out of nowhere - it had been a brilliant blue most of the day.

To see skies around the world click here

Today's quote: God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars ~ Martin Luther.

"Time for Tea"

2011-02-04T06:18:00.002+11:00

Above: "Time for Tea" ~ Graeme Foote
Graeme has been a sculptor since the 1970's when he started an apprenticeship as a stonemason. He then transferred his career to jewellery and silver-smithing, which he pursued for 15 years. In 1984 he commenced a business as an architectural sculptor working in terra cotta, stoneware and bronze. He has also completed a number of major stonewear fountain installations for private, public and corporate interests. Graeme has exhibited in solo exhibitions as well as in a number of select group exhibitions in Australia and China.

His work is represented in private collections in Australia, the United Kingdom, Japan, Canada and France.

Said Graeme - I repeatedly heard from my mother that as women get older they become invisible to younger people and I had a strong feeling of injustice that this is not right for older women to be treated that way. As a sculptor I suddenly became aware that there are not many sculptures and tributes to the senior people in our community. This then inspired me to sculpt an older woman doing a favourite pastime - having a cup of tea. Time for Tea inspired me to exhibit "Six Influential Australian Women" which comprised of life size sculptures of Dame Elizabeth Murdoch, Janet Holmes a Court, Jeanne Pratt, Lowitja O'Donahue, Christine Nixon and Stephanie Alexander.

Today's quote: The key to successful aging is to pay as little attention to it as possible ~Judith Regan

Playing Footsies

2011-02-03T02:18:00.001+11:00

Above: The Sneaker Stretch

Federation Square is a popular meeting place, and sometimes when you are waiting a long time, it's more comfortable to do the "Sneaker Stretch" - sit on the ground arms stretched out behind and touch your toes with another.

You see people in lots of different poses and positions. This young lass was near me as I too waited for a friend.

Today's quote: This is the Zen approach: nothing is there to be done. There is nothing to do. One has just to be. Have a rest and be ordinary and be natural ~ Osho

Gayip

2011-02-02T01:31:00.005+11:00

The Travellers

Gayip is one of the figures of "The Travellers", an artwork across Sandridge Bridge which tells the story of our original Indigenous inhabitants and the emmigrants who came later. There are ten figures in all and each figures represents a period of migration to Australia.

There are more than 3.7 kms of stainless steel (4,455 pieces) in this artwork and the average weight of each figure is 2,307 kg. The heaviest figure weighs a mighty 7,701 kgs!

The First Figure - Gayip

Above: 1. Gayip – The Aboriginal Period
This amazing piece of sculptured artwork was designed with the assistance of Indigenous artist Mandy Nicholson.

Mandy was born in Healesville in 1975 and is of the Woi wurrrung language group of the Wurundjeri-willam clan of the Kulin Nation of people from Melbourne. When she was in Year 12 she started drawing what she termed "Aboriginal art". Her first solo exhibition was in 2001 and her work "Welcome to Melbourne" was projected around Manchester Stadium during the Closing Ceremony of the 2002 Manchester Commonwealth Games. YOu can read more about Mandy HERE.

The Aboriginal Period
Aboriginal people settled in Australia at times estimated as 50,000 to 70,000 years ago, although many claim to have always been here. Tasmania separated from the mainland about 12,000 years ago and Torres Strait Islanders came over from Paua about 3,000 years ago. Apart from the TSI who practiced garden agriculture, Aborigines were hunter gatherers. The Aboriginal population in 1788 has been estimated as being between 250,000 and 750,000. There were no permanent settlements but control over traditional lands was recognised.

The Meaning of Gayip
Gayip is the Woiwurrung word for "Corroboree". Corroboree is the English word for the Aboriginal word Caribberie.

In earlier times Gayip involved an inter-clan gathering of related Aboriginal groups who used this time to advance their own spirituality, peace and unity through such means as:
Initiation ceremonies, storytelling, dancing and singing, the rekindling of friendships and relationships formed, trading goods, arranging marriages, settling disputes and the offering of support in times of sorrow or adversity

Above: Gayip - front view

Gayip stands in Southbank, and you can see Queens Bridge (1889) in the background.

Today's quote: We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow, to love... and then we return home ~ Australian Aboriginal proverb.

Theme Day - Fountains ~ Walker Fountain

2011-02-01T00:08:00.002+11:00

Above: Walker Fountain
This lovely fountain is just off St Kilda Road on the corner of Lithgow Avenue next to the Royal Botanic Gardens in King's Domain. It is made of concrete and was created in 1981 by artist Mobelt, Digregorio & Associates.

The fountain was presented to the people of Victoria by former Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Ronald Walker and his wife, Barbara. There are 46 underwater lights and 144 seprate streams of water. It really is an awesome site standing here and feeling the coolness of the water as it sprays its lovely bubbles of refreshing frothiness.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's quote: Nothing in the world is as soft and yielding as the water from a fountain. Yet for dissolving the hard and inflexible, nothing can surpass the fountain ~ Lao-Tze, Ancient Chinese Philosopher.

Pyjama Party

2011-01-31T09:35:00.000+11:00

Above: Bananas in Pyjamas?
I don't think so, these "ladies" are certainly far more interesting than a couple of bananas dressed in blue and white striped peejays!

About Peter Alexander
Peter Alexander is an Australian designer whose signature sleepwear have become a byword for beauty and practicality. Starting out as a one man operation on the living room table, Peter Alexander Sleepwear is now an internationally recognised sleepwear business and brand name. His story really is a rag-to-riches story and you can read more about him here.

This photo was taken at Chadstone Shopping Centre which opened up in 1961. Here you will find top designer labels and the very best on offer. Chadstone is in Melbourne's south eastern suburbs.

Today's quote: Always wear cute pyjamas to bed, you'll never know who you will meet in your dreams ~ Joel Madden

Portsea Pier

2011-01-30T02:50:00.001+11:00

Above: Portsea Pier

Part of the Mornington Peninsula, Portsea Pier is about 125 metres long with a right-angle extension of another 80 metres or so. Built from timber, the right side is used by the many charter boats to pick up and drop off their clients. The beginning of the pier crosses over the sand about 15 metres before reaching the water.

Portsea is the hub of Melbourne's scuba diving and the pier is home to the Seahorse and the Weedy Seadragon, which is Victoria's marine faunal emblem. (Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria)

In January, Portsea hosts the Portsea Pro-Am Classic, the Pier to Pub Swim, the Melbourne to Hobart and Melbourne to Davenport Yacht Races and the Portsea Swim Classic.

To see other photos from Scenic Sunday, click here.

Today's quote: The waves of the sea help me get back to me ~ Jill Davis

Resting Place

2011-01-29T05:24:00.002+11:00

It has been some time since I was last here. Health problems had been plagueing me and as they started settling down, I have been staying with my daughter. I trust you all had a wonderful Christmas. Thank you for the good wishes and may the New Year bring good times ahead.

Above: A Chair on Swanston
We were on our way to see Mary Poppins when I spotted this lovely seat on the corner of Swanston and Little Lonsdale Streets and thought now there's something worthy of a photo. I was quite taken with the lovely filagree work and the four large sunflowers. Photo was taken on an angle to try and get most of the seat in the picture.

A search finds it was created by Bronwyn Snow in 1994 and is made from steel and jarrah. Below is the only available information I was able to find.

Bronwyn Snow's Resting Place is a sculpture that combines aesthetics and function. Commissioned through the City of Melbourne's Percent for Art Program, this double-sided seat of steel and jarrah offers the urban flâneur a place to rest, take stock and take in the urban environment. The decorative elements of the seat include two serpents-traditionally a symbol of healing, rebirth and female power-towering sunflowers, which watch over the seated, and ivy. Snow claims of the work that it is 'a stopping point, a resting place for the weary spiritual traveller'. Source eMelbourne

Today's quote: A chair is a very difficult object. A skyscraper is almost easier. That is why Chippendale is famous ~ Ludwig Mies van der Rohe

Christmas 2010

2010-12-25T00:10:00.000+11:00

I would like to wish everyone a happy and holy Christmas filled with joy and love. May your day and the days to follow be happy and fullfilled. I have not been very well and have not visited your lovely blogs but I will do so hopefully in a few days.

I wish for everyone a life of happy times and love.

Today's quote: Christmas is not a time nor a season, but a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas ~ Calvin Coolidge.

Ruby Tuesday ~ Morris Dancers

2010-12-21T03:10:00.001+11:00

Dancing at the fair
We went to a local fair in October and there were Morris dancers performing. I really love watching them - listening to the bells on the men's legs and all the handkerchief waving and the music. It's a real fun day and it's sort of like stepping back in time to the olden days. Quite a number of teams have fancy hats with lots and lots of flowers on them. The hats with the flowers are worn by the men. I saw several Morris dancing teams at a folk festival a couple of years ago, took heaps of photos and found I'd accidently deleted them. I was so disappointed. The men's hats were lovely.

Above: Let me drop everything and dance on your problem!
This is the motto of the Brittania Morris Men.

The history of Morris Dancing
Morris dancing has been around for a long, long time - much longer than you or I. Our great grandparents weren't even a twinkle in their parents eye. Go back to Shakespearian times - Shakespeare mentions Morris dancing in "All's Well that Ends Well", and makes it clear that the Morris dance was commonly performed on May Day (May 1).

It is believed that dancing formed part of the celebration of Celtic festivals, but somewhere in the mist of time, the origins of Morris dancing have become lost and today survives as a form of folk dance performed in the open air in villages in rural England by groups of specially chosen and trained men and women. Rather than being a social dance, it's more ritualistic. The dancers take their dances seriously and feel the dances have a magic power which serves to bring luck and ward of evil.

Above: Traditional set
The dancers here performed in the Cotswold style. The chap at the front left of the set is the Caller - the person who calls out the figures of the dance.

I videoed part of the dancing. The first is a Handkerchief dance, followed by one of the stick dances - the dancers have long sticks about a metre in length and tap the ground and cross sticks. Different dance teams have different versions and no two are exactly the same. Today's quote is the motto of the Tarka Morris Men of Bideford, England

Click here to see more photos around the world from Ruby Tuesday

Today's quote: Nemo Enim Fere Saltat Sobrius, Nisi Forte Insanit. (Hardly anyone dances sober, unless he's completely mad. Cicero 106 - 43 BC)

Vicolino Caffe

2010-12-20T02:22:00.000+11:00

May I take your order?
This great little cafe in Centre Place is a real nice, family run affair with a wonderfully friendly atmosphere where you feel comfortable just sitting over a cuppa, taking your time watching the world go by. Or in this case, watching the people go by.

For make no mistake, Centre Place is a funky, trendy narrow laneway made naturally dark by the tall, tall buildings on either side and a rich blend of Bohemia and decadence worthy of the most written about places in Europe.

They have these darling Bentwood chairs with tiny round tables and the menu is written in chalk on the blackboard on the right hand side. The place isn't very big but what it lacks in size is more than made up by the delicious home-cooked food. So if you're in Melbourne early, pop in and have a hot, hearty breakfast to get you going for the day.

Today's quote: Acting requires me to be very observant, which means being able to sit in cafes for hours and watch people ~ Keira Knightley.

Time On Flinders

2010-12-19T01:13:00.000+11:00

Above: Flinders Street Station
This is the Elizabeth Street entrance to Flinders Street station. The entrance is opposite a T intersection and the clock is visible from a fair distance - as you can see, it is 20 past 2 in the afternoon.

Today's quote: Time is free, but it's priceless. You can't own it, but you can use it. You can't keep it, but you can spend it. Once you've lost it you can never get it back ~ Harvey MacKay.

The Bicycle

2010-12-18T02:57:00.000+11:00

An old yellow bicycle propped up against a weeping willow - who put it there among the flowers? I see in my mind's eye a lady in a long, old-fashioned blue skirt, white blouse with small frills, a cameo at her neck, a straw boater with a red and blue ribbone and tan leather riding gloves to protect the delicate skin of her hands. With black leather boots she comes, places a small cane basket on the handle bars and with a ladylike movement, mounts her bicycle and rides off along the country road.

Today's quote: Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of riding a bike ~ John F. Kennedy

Flinders on the Yarra

2010-11-30T00:24:00.001+11:00

Above: Melbourne backdrop
Strolling along Southbank one fine morning I took this photo facing north/west. If you enlarge the photo, you can see small boats moored on the other side. You can walk along Flinders Walk beside the river under the trees behind which is the iconic Flinders Street Station.

Click here to see other worlds

Today's quote: If you are seeking creative ideas, go out walking. Angels whisper to a man when he goes for a walk ~ Raymond Inmon

Amorous Apples

2010-11-29T00:52:00.000+11:00

Did you know that in ancient Greece, the apple was considered to be sacred to Aphrodite and if you threw an apple at someone it meant you were declaring your love and likewise, if you caught it, it showed your acceptance of that love? Imagine it that were the case today, I wonder how many apples would be caught? No doubt there would be many a young swain hoping his lady love was good at ball games!

Today's quote: I throw the apple at you, and if you are willing to love me, take it and share your girlhood with me; but if your thoughts are what I pray they are not, even then take it, and consider how short-lived is beauty ~ Plato.

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Federation Reflective

2010-11-28T06:04:00.000+11:00

Above: Two Gentlemen of Verona
A sunny day down at Federation Square when I snapped these two gents partaking of morning tea.

Click here to see other weekend reflections around the world.

Today's Quote: Seeing is deceiving. It's eating that's believing ~ James Thurber

Pellegrinis - A Melbourne Institution

2010-11-27T13:14:00.000+11:00

Pellegrini's is a Melbourne institution which has operated in the heart of the CBD for several decades. Paul, the owner, migrated from Southern Italy and started the business in the 1950's. Noted for its hearty meals, great coffee and delectable Italian desserts, this is a place where everyone should come - at least once in their life.
The food's delicious and so are the waiters!

Above: Waiters
How about a coffee? They use a special Vittoria blend which gives a great flavour.

Above: Memorabilia line the walls
There's a fantastic collection of 50's and 60's memorabilia - handsome dudes on motor bikes, saucy actresses with hour-glass figures, old postcards and assorted knick-knacks. There's even an old 78 record!

Above: Dining Italian style
The place is always packed and you either sit on a stool at the bar or a stool at the wall - Italiano style.

The food is what might be called plain fare - unpretentious, not fancy stuff topped with wilted greens in un-natural poses. Just good old-fashioned Italian fare.

I did hear of a lady who asked for a garden salad to which the waiter replied something like "we do not have a garden"

Above: Cannelloni Ripieni Di Vitello e Spinaci
My lunch. Home cooked and delicious, large serves and meals only $14.00.

Above: Delectable Deserts and Goody Num Nums
Don't they just take your breath away if you're a sweet tooth? I put on weight just looking at them!

Today's Quote: Making coffee has become the great compromise of the decade. It's the only thing "real" men do that doesn't seem to threaten their masculinity. To women, it's on the same domestic entry level as putting the spring back into the toilet-tissue holder or taking a chicken out of the freezer to thaw ~ Erma Louise Bombeck

Remembrance Day 2010

2010-11-11T23:42:00.002+11:00

On the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month, in 1918, at the signing of the Armistice, the guns in Europe fell silent. And so, every year on the same day at the same time, we remember those who have fallen in all wars, and made the ultimate sacrifice.

These photos were taken today at the Remembrance Day Service at my local RSL.

Above: Commemorative plaque

Above: Memorial Cross

Above: Flag bearers

I filmed the service which is in three parts.

Click here to see Part 2
and
Click here to see Part 3

Above: Paying respects

Above: Two diggers

The Ode
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years contemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.

From 'For The Fallen' by Laurence Binyon

Above: Lest We Forget

Today's Quote: In war, there are no unwounded soldiers ~ Jose Narosky.

Theme Day - Transportation ~ The Farmyard Express

2010-11-01T23:53:00.000+11:00

Farmyard Express
All aboard, the farmyard express stopping all paddocks. How much is the ticket? Two apples and one banana!

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's Quote: I have come to believe that there are infinite passageways out of the shadows, infinite vehicles to transport us into the light ~ Martha Beck

His Majesty the Baby

2010-10-12T14:07:00.000+11:00

Yesterday I went to the hospital to see the newest addition. Mum wasn't there but the little man was fast asleep and I couldn't resist taking a few snaps. They came home a couple of hours later. It is a very busy time at the moment, between baby-sitting active 4 year olds, cooking their meals, jostling work hours and helping out, I don't know whether I'm Arthur or Martha! Everything else seems to be in a state of limbo.

The Little Man

A Little Bundle of Joy

His Majesty the Baby

Sleeping peacefully

Today's Quote: It is the nature of babies to be in bliss ~ Deepak Chopra

Reflections on the Yarra

2010-10-10T01:46:00.000+11:00

Tall Stories
Have you ever noticed the reflections in the water? How some of them are perfectly straight, yet others are curved and squiggly? Although I might have wished the "lines" were straight, they do make for interesting patterns don't they?

Click here to see reflections around the world, brought to you by Newton Daily Photo

Today's quote: No one can see their reflection in running water. It is only in still water that we can see ~ Taoist proverb

Oriental Arcade

2010-10-07T00:42:00.002+11:00

Above: Oriental Arcade
Tucked away on the right-hand side of Beach Road in Sorrento, is this lovely little arcade with an air of mystery about it. As you walk down the narrow alley way to the back so's you can access the shops, you are greeted with an Italian waiter, or is that a Greek wearing a toga? statue on one side, and beautiful and delicate fernery plants on the other.

Racks of clothing are hanging around outsisde and as you ascend the stairs your eyes are filled with visions of a riot of colour. A great place to spend buying or just browsing.

Today's Quote: Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping ~ Bo Derek

Blowhole - Art on the Waterfront

2010-10-06T02:26:00.000+11:00

Blowhole
This 15 metre high wind-powered sculpture was created in November 2005 by Australian artist Duncan Stemler who has an interest in kinetic and public sculpture. Blowhole is a large scale public art commission (won through competition) for Vic Urban in Docklands. The armature and cups interact with each other to form patterns, colours and shadows. The cups are arranged to pick up the wind like an anemometer on the top of a yacht’s mast and spin in a clockwise or anti-clockwise direction with the rotation speed dependent on the prevailing wind.

Ian Potter Museum of Art director Chris McAuliffe said of Blowhole, it was sensitive to the location and shows a sense of history, which is to say it has something of a maritime, waterfront promenade feel.

Below is a short vidoe of Blowhole in action -

It is fascinating to watch it in action - see the cups how they spin and turn as they are propelled forever forward in motion by the wind.

Usually, the images you see of Blowhole are of the two up top. Below are two not often shown.

Above: Blowhole with rings
The rings are strategically placed around the Blowhole.

Above: Close-up
The rings came up to about waist high.

Today's Quote: Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine and at last you create what you will ~ George Bernard Shaw

Tesselaar's Tulip Festival

2010-10-05T03:37:00.008+11:00

Every year from mid September to mid October Tesselaar's Tulip Festival is held. There are over 100 different types in all sizes and colours.

Above: Tulip Time

Tesselaar's Tulip Farm is in Silvan, in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges about an hour's drive from Melbourne.

Did you know
Tulip images are found as far back as the 12th century where they were used to decorate a Bible. The three petal image of the tulip was and still is used as a symbol of the Holy Trinity.

Above: Windmill
There is more than just tulips to see, although the flowers are the main focus. Various windmills are to be found.

Above: A shady spot
This chap looked like he had had enough.

Above: Tip-toe through the tulips
Everyone likes to walk among the tulips.

Tulipomania
Tulipomania began in the Netherlands and the tulip became a status symbol for the rich. The gamble of creating a new colour break was an exciting game to play. Much experimentation was done trying to get the best effects. Wall plaster and powdered paints were mixed into the soil. Bulbs of various colour were spliced and joined together. Rare colours and streaks were also created - later with the discovery of the microscope these variations were revealed to be caused by a virus.

During tulipomania exorbitant amounts of money were spent on the frenzied purchasing of bulbs - houses were mortgaged and people joined syndicates to try the bulbs. Tulips were literally worth their weight in gold. A single bulb like 'Sempus Augustus' was worth more than a house in Amsterdam's best district.

Above: Tulips as far as the eye can see
The first famous tulips in the Netherlands were planted by Carolus Clusias, the curator of Leiden's botanical gardens. He was approached to sell them, but refused. Later they were stolen from his garden. It was these stolen bulbs that created the stock for the booming tulip trade throughout the Netherlands. The Dutch named their tulips after Admirals and Generals in the spirit of the times.

Nurseries were established in the 17th century and as the stocks grew so did the market. The new colour breaks were the most popular and helped maintain the aura and mystery of the tulip.

Above: Tulip Fantasy
It was cheaper to have a tulip painted by the masters of the time than it was to purchase a single bulb. Master painters were commissioned to paint a momento of the tulips grown, these became treasured possessions.
Bulb farms were worked by hand, fields were tilled, drainage trench ditches dug, bulbs planted and dead headed after flowering. The work was labour intensive.

Did you know
The tulip motif has been used extensively in art, as crystal etchings and the shape has been a feature in gold and silver work.

Above: Stall holders
Most all of the stall holders and people working here were dressed in Dutch costumes. There are twelve provinces in the Netherlands and "traditional" Dutch clothing is therefore different in each area.

Above: Traditional costumes
The young lad was working at the bulb buying marquee and was quite happy to pose. The centre couple are members of the Folk Dancers and the lady on the right I just happened to see walking around.

The Beginning
Read how Tesselaar's began over 60 years ago.

Above: Windmill girl
Another windmill. After this I had lunch. The cafe provided light foods etc., but I wanted Dutch food, so went to the stalls on the other side and had Frikandellen and Reifkoek. Frikandellen are Dutch sausages - like a minced-meat hot dog and Reifkoek are potato cakes. The potato is grated and mixed with onion then fried - very greasy and very fattening! Later in the day I indulged in one of my favourites - Poffertjes. Dutch pancakes. Miniature pancakes - you get 19 of them and I went for jam and cream. Lashings of creams, smothered in icing sugar. Mmmm....heavenly.

Above: Folk Dancers
While eating my lunch, just as I was finishing, I heard an announcement that there was to be Dutch folk dancing in the centre bit near the souvenir shop. Wasting no time, I walked there - there was a very large circle of chairs placed around, and I espied two empty chairs. Needless to say, I made my way quick smart to the appropriate empty chair(s) and sat down on one. Lucky for me that I did - soon there were many, many people standing in rows behind.

Below is a video I took with my camera. I didn't capture all of it and alas stopped in mid-air so to speak - before a dance ended. (I wasn't sure how long the battery would last, plus my arms were tired from holding them up to film)

Above: Melbourne Tukkers
The group is called the Melbourne Tukkers and I thouroughly enjoyed watching and listening to the music.
I found my toe a-tapping for most of the performance.

Above: Dutch Beauties
These lovely ladies were part of the folk group - as you can see they are all smiling and happy.

Above: Under the willow
After lining up for about 45 minutes to buy poffertjes, I saw this lovely old willow and was quite taken with the serenity of the scene.

Click here to see other worlds.

Today's Quote: Dutch tulips from their beds flaunted their stately heads ~ James Montgomery

Springtime in Melbourne

2010-10-04T00:09:00.016+11:00

Spring has finally come to Melbourne!
After a cool four weeks, Spring has arrived. The skies are blue, the flowers are out and it's short sleeves and 3/4 leggings. The gardens are blooming, it makes you feel happy, you could shout with joy at the fragrance of roses so sweet, the scent you inhale as you take time to wander around your neighbourhood and local parks.

It's Springtime now
The flowers are out
The trackies have gone
We're gadding about
In cool summer cottons
And hats on our heads
It's welcome to Spring
In our pinks, greens and reds

To see more Yellow Mellow Monday posts click here

Today's quote: I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden ~ Ruth Stout

Theme Day - Graffiti...Dining With Dinosaurs

2010-10-01T00:09:00.003+10:00

Dining with Dinosaurs?
I just love this wonderful piece of glorious graffiti don't you? I noticed it while on one of my Melbourne Walks. They say art imitates life, well imgaine if art came to life - think of the mad scramble there'd be!
I don't think many would want to be din-dins for this fellow! Look at those teeth...

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

I am going to my daughter's for a day or two and will visit on my return. May you all have a lovely Friday and a safe weekend. God Bless.

Today's quote: Dinosaurs may be extinct from the face of the planet, but they are alive and well in our imaginations ~ Steve Miller, Freaks!

Mad Hatter's Tea Party

2010-09-30T03:32:00.002+10:00

I'm late, I'm late for a very important date
You don't have to be in Alice In Wonderland to attend the Mad Hatter's Tea Party - just come to Melbourne. This darling display of beautiful hats by various Australian Milliners was in the Block Arcade during Melbourne Spring Fashion Week.
We promenaded along Collins Street and viewed the "Hats Off To The Races" exhibition. After voting for your favourite display, you received a gift bag of samples and vouchers.

Lilac Luscious
Wondering what to buy for that special lady in your life? Then look no further ~ imagine the admiring looks she would receive wearing this beautiful creation of midnight blue adorned with mauve flowers around the crown and a dark violet organza ribbon bow. The perfect accessory for a Sunday afternoon stroll.

Lemon Fantasy
What lady wouldn't want to be seen in this gorgeous piece of millinery confectionery? Featuring a gun-metal grey straw crown overlaid with chartreuse tulle and a silk band, finished with a large silk rose and feather.

Midsummer's Night
For that special occasion ~ a darling little confection of organza beaded swirled ribbon overlayed with butterflies of pastel and the palest of gold satin flowers with diamante centres.

The Cheesemaker
And for every day wear, this practical pink straw with magenta single flower and a swirl of delicate azure netting.

The Milliner
One of the milliners next to her array of hats. The Guest Judges were the Lady Mayoress, Emma Page Campbell; Deputy Lord Mayor, Susan Riley; and Millinery Master Peter Jago.
At the conclusion of the exhibition, the Hatters High Tea Party was held in the Hopetoun Tea Rooms.

Today's Quote: A hat is a flag, a shield, a bit of armour, and the badge of femininity. A hat is the difference between wearing clothing and wearing a costume; it's the difference between being dressed and being dressed up; it's the difference between looking adequate and looking your best. A hat is to be stylish in, to glow under, to flirt beneath, to make all others seem jealous over, and to make all men feel masculine about. A piece of magic is a hat ~ Martha Sliter

Beyond the Ocean of Existence

2010-09-29T03:16:00.001+10:00

On the corner of Swanston Street and Flinders Lane is a beautiful piece of art work. Titled Beyond the Ocean of Existence, this patinated bronze sculpture was created by Loretta Quinn in 1993. It comprises a single large ball surrounded by eight bronze coils and a series of smaller balls and lengths of column, both triangular and circular in cross-section, surmount these coils. At the sculpture's top is a stylised angel. The work is a mounted on a granite plinth of dressed and polished blocks.

About the artist
Loretta Quinn was born in Hobart and studied sculpture at the Tasmanian School of Art and the Victorian College of the Arts. She was commssioned by The City of Melbourne in 1992 to create Beyond the Ocean of Existence as part of the Swanston Walk redevelopment. The sculpture was unveiled the following year. The city also commissioned Quinn's Within Three Worlds, located in Princes Park

Beyond the Ocean of Existence demonstrates Quinn's reflective approach, and it is a work replete with religious references. There is a sense of 'folk religion' in much of her art, and whether the symbols derive from the mystery of a Latin mass or the animist universe, a Celtic myth or a Japanese garden, she says they are 'visual references to which others will relate'.
Further information about Loretta Quinn can be found at the Harrison Galleries.

In the background
The tall Gothic building in the background is the Manchester Unity building built in the 1932 and designed by Marcus Barlow which was once Melbourne's tallest building, the modern piece of architecture slightly to the left and in front is Wales Corner (Bank of NSW) 1973 by Wolfgang Sievers. And if you look very carefully through the trees, you can see the Painted Poles in City Square.

Today's Quote: It is not known precisely where angels dwell - whether in the air, the void, or the planets. It has not been God's pleasure that we should be informed of their abode ~Voltaire

Mingary - the quiet place

2010-09-28T00:09:00.000+10:00

Mingary ~ A peaceful sanctuary for people of all cultures and religions. Mingary is a Gaelic word meaning 'the quiet place'

Here, rocks, water and light have been brought together in harmony. These elements are the ancient and contemporary symbols of life, strength and spiritual elevation.

Mingary has been developed as a place for quiet reflection and offers an escape from the hectic demands of city life. It is a place for solitary contemplation. Mingary is dedicated to healing, restoration, inspiration, vision and empowerment.

The feature light which is 2 metres across and wall lights were designed by Stephen Hennessy Art & Design and made in 1999.

Water
On entering the gates, you will see a rough-hewn rock. Water falls down it from above reminding us of the gift of life coming to us, unsought. At the base, are numerouse small stones representing us as individuals.

Mingary
The lighting is subtle and unobtrusive, providing a relaxing glow in the room. The small candle lights define the edges of the space, and the large feature light, situated directly above the sculpture, illuminates the scultpure without drawing too much attention within the room.

Bowl of Welcome
As you enter the sanctuary, you see the Bowl of Welcome - it is set on two stones. One, a fragment of green marble from the island of Iona, the other, a gift from the Aboriginal Mia Mia tribe who it is believed once lived on this sacred site.

Water flows down the table-rock and into the Bowl of Quietness and Peace.

Seating
Plain chairs are placed around the room close to the walls.

Enter in silence ~ leave in silence.

Garden
Part of the garden around Mingary. Mingary is part of St. Michael's Uniting Church 120 Collins Street, and you enter from Russell Street.

I found this place quite by accident on one of my city walks. The place was empty when I arrived, thus I was able to take photos. Other people came and sat down. It was a very peaceful experience and it's really wonderful that Melbourne has such a place to offer for those just wanting some time out from their busy lives.

About the artist

The sculpture was created by the Japanese artist, Akira Takizawa and called in Japanese, Seinaru-ishi - sacred rock. It is composed of three large rocks, a surge of white marble, and the magnificent water bowl at the base. He was born in Japan and has been resident in Australia since 1978. He has responded to many commissions in Melbourne and Osaka, Japan and has participated in many solo and group exhibitions. (Photo from State Library of Victoria)

Today's Quote: If you reflect within yourself and find nothing to be ashamed of, how could you have anxiety or fear ~ Confucius

The Guardians

2010-09-27T00:20:00.001+10:00

These two large sculptures are carved from Italian statuary marble and clad with ceramic tiles by a then, local artist, Simon Rigg. The square based mounting of the larger statue depicts the four elements. The smaller Guardian reveals a woman's head looking through the hole of the larger sculpture, and hints at the source of all images, beyond our plane of vision.

Facing south
The Guardians, by Simon Rigg were unveiled in November at Melbourne's Southgate precinct near the Crown Casino, the commissioning body. Information from Artlink

Facing north
Another side to the Four Elements - Earth, Water, Air and Fire.

You can see the Crown Entertainment Complex in the rear. The Guardians stand at Yarra Promenade just past Queens Bridge. There is seating nearby - and a nice area with trees. A quiet place to sit in front of the river and enjoy a coffee or read a book.

Today's Quote: The advancement and diffusion of knowledge is the only guardian of true liberty ~ James Madison

Webb Bridge

2010-09-26T07:15:00.004+10:00

Webb Bridge
This spectacular bridge is a showmanship of technical design and elegance. Connecting Southbank Promenade to Docklands and panning 110 metres across the Yarra River, it is user friendly - wheelchair access is provided - pedestrians and cyclists use this bridge every day. Designed by Melbourne artist Robert Owen with Architects Denton Corker Marshall, the design is an analogy of Koorie fishing traps, drums, baskets and the gestural flow of the river below.

On the bridge
Ever seen a snake's skin once it has been shed? Well this is what this bridege reminds me of - the delicate and intricate curves all connecting in one beautiful pattern.
Webb Dock Rail Bridge was the original bridge and this pedestrian/cycle bridge over the Yarra river, as part of a public art project re-uses the remaining sections. The bridge comprises two distinct sections: the 145m long existing structure and a new curved 80m long ramped link.

Metallic Arches
The hoops vary in width from 5 – 8.7m and in height from 4 – 8.9m high. They are constructed from steel sections 15 x 150mm, occurring at varying centres along the bridge. These are interconnected by a series of steel straps 150mm wide. The steelwork was made in prefabricated sections and then assembled on a barge that was floated in at high tide. At the northern bank it starts as a series of plain hoops that grow further apart towards the middle of the span. As you approach the south bank, the hoops regain their intensity and evolve into a filigree cocoon.

A Spaceship? No, it's the bridge!
Webb Bridge appears as a delineated structure, a sensuous volume, light and linear. Space is seen as atmospheric, dynamic and transitional.

Bridge with a View
You can truly appreciate the surrounding views and activities along the river. Here I was facing east - you can see part of Spencer Street Bridge with its cream uprights and red. And of course the Eureka Tower which stands out like a beacon.

Click here to view all participants of Sunday Bridges
Click here to view all participants of Scenic Sunday

Today's Quote:
I am seeking for the bridge which leans from the visible to the invisible through reality ~ Max Beckmann

(I am out all day today but will visit all the other lovely bridges tonight, Have a good day everyone.)

Weekend Reflections - Grossi Florentino

2010-09-25T01:05:00.002+10:00

A Collins Street Classic - Romance at its Best
Said by some to be the most romantic restaurant in Melbourne, this beautiful Italian restaurnat at 80 Bourke Street is a master of perfection. If you wish to impress, this is where you go.

Only the best when only the best will do - from the Florentine wall murals to the gleaming chandeliers, with a wall of mirrors on one side. White tablecloths, starched table napkins, cutlery polished so brightly you can see your reflection, opulent and luxurious timber panelling, leatherbound menus and accented waiters who are as efficient as they are charming.

And a wine list that is as extensive as it is expensive - this is the place to take that special someone. Owner and executive chef Guy Grossi and Chef De Cuisine Chris Rodriguez make this one of the best restaurants in Melbourne.
Check out Grossi Florentino and read about their beginning, fascinating murals, menu, wine lists.

James Weekend Reflections Newtown Area Photo

Today's Quote: Some people ask the secret of our long marriage. We take time to go to a restaurant two times a week. A little candlelight, dinner, soft music and dancing. She goes Tuesdays, I go Fridays ~ Henry Youngman

Skywatch Friday - Under Sorrento Skies

2010-09-24T00:02:00.002+10:00

Street with a view
This is the scene you see when standing on the roundabout at the intersection of Point Nepean Road and Ocean Beach Road facing the sea. If you were to walk down the hill and turn left at the Esplanade you would be at the Sorrento Queenscliff ferry wharf.

Click here to see other skies around the world.

Today's Quote: Clouds symbolise the veils that shroud God ~ Honore De Balzac

The Pathfinder (Aka the Hammer Thrower)

2010-09-21T00:03:00.002+10:00

Above: The Pathfinder
Photo taken facing west.
The Pathfinder (aka The Hammer Thrower), is a bronze sculpture created by John Edward Robinson in 1974 and stands proudly in the Queen Victoria Gardens. The hammer held by the figure has been stolen several times and duly returned or replaced by another.

About the artist
John Robinson was born in London on 4 May 1935 and died on 6 April 2007. He was evacuated to Australia as a child during WWII to escape the Blitz. Returning to Australia in 1952, he lived in South Australia until his return to England in 1969, where he devoted himself to sculpture full time. His major commissions include four sculptures for the Australian Institute of Sport, Canberra, Gymnast for the New Olympic Museum, Lausanne, and The Pathfinder and Water Children, now with the City of Melbourne.

Above: Facing east
This shows the garden bed in which The Pathfinder stands.

A bit of trivia
The Pathfinder was initially commissioned by mining giant Conzinc Riotinto (now known as Rio Tinto) which they planned to have on display in their proposed new building, but when it (the building) failed to go ahead, the statue was placed on long-term loan with the City of Melbourne. The Pathfinder was unveiled by Lord Mayor Councillor Whalley in April 1974. Information taken from eMelbourne

Some other works by Robinson
For those interested in art, I have included some of his other works.

Above: Bonds of Friendship
Bronze sculpture, 1979 and is 45 x 25 cm.

Above: Abstraction, sculpture pyramidale
Brass 1983. Stands 91 cm high.
You can find more of Robinson's works here.

Today's Quote: Sculpture and painting have the effect of teaching us manners and abolishing hurry ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Moon

2010-09-17T11:24:00.001+10:00

Moon at Night
Taken on the back balcony late at night.

I will be away for a couple of days and will visit other lovely skies on my return. May you all have a happy weekend.☺

To see other skies around the world click here

Today's Quote: The night walked down the sky with the moon in her hand ~ Frederic Lawrence Knowles

Unplugged

2010-09-16T00:02:00.001+10:00

The Guitarist
This handsome hunk had the ladies on the edges of their seats with his artistic musical display of his 6 string.

Today's Quote: My guitar is not a thing. It is an extension of myself. It is who I am ~ Joan Jett

Garden Urns

2010-09-15T12:15:00.001+10:00

Grecian or Roman?
Don't you just love the warm earthy tones with a touch of the rustic about them? I do and these wonderful examples are at our local nursery. And yes, that is water springing forth from the urn in the right foreground. I tried for a better shot but as there is a high wire fence around this section, I had to hold the camera between the wire "squares".

Today's Quote: Oh, tenderly the haughty day fills his blue urn with fire ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Queenscliff - Sorrento Ferry

2010-09-14T03:26:00.000+10:00

The Queenscliff-Sorrento car and passenger ferry links two attractive seaside destinations - the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. There are two vessels, the "M.V. Queenscliff" and the "M.V.Sorrento" and they depart Sorrento Pier and Queenslciff Harbour every hour between 7am and 6pm, every day of the year. An adult one way fare is $10 for foot passengers and from $55.50 for a car and one adult. Sorrento is a nice day trip and you could drive to Sorrento, spend a couple of hours, catch the ferry to Queenscliff then drive back to Melbourne via Geelong.

The M.V. Queenscliff was put into service on the 22 December 1993. Traffic using the ferry service continued to grow though the 1990s, carrying about 110,000 cars/trucks/coaches/motorcycles and 600,000 passengers each year so by 2000, a second ferry was needed. The MV Sorrento was built in Launceston, Tasmania, Australia at a cost of $12 million.

A Bit of Trivia
On 12 October 2005 the Australian Defence Force staged an anti-terrorism exercise on the MV Queenscliff. Two Black Hawk helicopters were used to fast rope members of the Tactical Assault Group onto the roof of the ferry, and members of the Boat Assault Force boarded the ferry from inflatable dingies

The M.V. J.J. Farnsworth
There was another, smaller ferry which plied these waters for many years and carried passengers only. The M.V. J.J. Farnsworth which travelled Sorrento-Portsea-Queenscliff, closed down in the early 2000's due to the increased frequency of the two larger vessels.

The photo below was taken in the late 1990's. I didn't have a digital camera then and this was taken with an instamatic ($29.95 from the local chemist) I used my digital camera and took a photo of a photo so the quality isn't all that good.

The old ferry
Photo taken at Sorrento pier, one April late 1990's. It was really fun riding in this - if you stood near the front of the boat, as the swell of the water rose, the boat dipped so low you almost touched the water! Great fun but it did make you feel a little giddy.

Today's Quote: The water is the same on both sides of the boat ~ Finnish proverb.

Aix Café Creperie Salon

2010-09-13T12:14:00.001+10:00

A touch of France in Melbourne - Parlez-Vous Français?

Aix Café Creperie Salon, a popular French Café in busy Centre Place is one of those tiny-perch-on-the-pavement places boasting tables just large enough for a plate, pepper grinder and a wee bowl of sugar cubes.

The raison d'etre for its popularity is the high quality of the delicious crepes - from savoury to sweet. Try an orange blossom honey crepes for breakfast or the Peking duck crepe filled with duck, cucumber, lettuce and plum sauce. Also in the menu are such yummy epicuran delights such as home made soup (great for winter) and baguettes with fillings of every imaginable variety.

Open for breakfast and lunch six days a week, you can't go past this tiny cafe for a delicious meal or snack and at a very reasonable price. With prices ranging from around $4.00 to $9.00, you'll be laughing all the way to the bank!

Today's Quote: Of all the items on the menu, soup is that which exacts the most delicate perfection and the strictest attention ~ Auguste Escoffier

Seafarers Bridge, South Wharf

2010-09-12T08:00:00.005+10:00

"Seafarers Bridge" reflects rich maritime history.

Looking through the arches

This beautifully arched pedestrian bridge built at a cost of $15 million dollars opened to the public in January 2009, but remained unnamed until December 2009. (People just called it the "Big white bridge"!) Melbourne City Council invited Melbournians to suggest fitting names for the bridge - there were 539 submissions and from these the name "Seafarers Bridge" was chosen and approval was obtained from the State government to officially christen the bridge. (Remember the "good old days" when a person of note would cut a satin ribbon and smash a champagne bottle against it?)!

Acting Lord Mayor Susan Riley said “The name draws on the rich maritime history of the area and is a fitting connection to the nearby ‘Mission to Seafarers’ centre located at the bridge’s northern landing.”
This photo and the one above are facing north.

Facing north east

Chief executive of the Mission to Seafarers Andrea Fleming said she was delighted with the decision. Ms Fleming went on to say “Since 1857 seafarers have strolled the banks of the Yarra River whilst taking shore leave in the Port of Melbourne. We are thrilled with the naming of the bridge which contributes to the significance of the maritime precinct, the work of the Mission to Seafarers Victoria and the seafarers whom the organisation serves.”

Mission to Seafarers
The Mission to Seafarers is an international organisation which cares for the practical and spiritual welfare of seafarers of all nationalities and faiths. The Melbourne Mission, created in 1905, is a volunteer-managed facility providing a home away from home for approximately 12,000 seafarers visiting the Port of Melbourne annually. See Australian locations of the Mission.

Facing north west
The bridge crosses from near the newly constructed world-class Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, in the South Wharf precinct and forms a vital connection between the river-front and the city’s waterfront at Docklands. It is very popular with pedestrians and cyclists.

Click here to view other participants of Louis La Vache's Sunday Bridges
Click here to view other participants of Scenic Sunday

Today's Quote: Sometimes, if you stand on the bottom rail of a bridge and lean over to watch the river slipping slowly away beneath you, you will suddenly know everything there is to be known ~ Winnie the Pooh

Weekend Reflections - Pelligrinis

2010-09-11T02:13:00.002+10:00

Tto see other reflections around the world click here

Today's Quote: Originality houses many rooms, and the views from the windows are all different ~ Guy Davenport

Skywatch Friday - Early Morning Walk

2010-09-10T07:23:00.003+10:00

City Skyscape
I was doing an early morning waterfront walk in the city of Melbourne last Friday. this was taken on the pedestrian bridge which runs alongside Sandridge Bridge. Shot taken facing east.

Click here to see other skies around the world.

Today's Quote: In the sky, there is no distinction of east and west; people create distinctions out of their own minds and then believe them to be true ~ Buddha

Hurstbridge Wattle Festival

2010-09-09T05:24:00.004+10:00

The last Sunday in August is the annual Wattle Festival and I went with two gentlemen - Master Five and Master Four to witness the glorious wattle that abounds in the lovely town of Hurstbridge. It is a fun family day with free horse, bus and train rides. Driving through Diamond Creek and along Heidelberg Kinglake Rd is one of my favourtie drives with the sound of birdsong and the fresh smell of trees and flowers playing imaginitive dreams with your senses.

Horse and Buggy
The horse and coach rides must be the most popular because the biggest queue was here. The boys loved riding on the carriage.

Double Decker Bus Rides
The double decker bus was the second favourite and after we had waited patiently, it was our turn but they wanted to ride "on the top" so we waited for the next one. Everyone wants to ride on the top!

Tongan Dancers
The Tongan dancers were wonderful and we sat entranced listening to Tongan music and watched various traditional dances. The ladies were a little cold in the strapless Tapa.

The Hupmobile
A display of vintage cars saw many people having a good look. Here we see Master Five and Master Four sitting in one of them. There were many more things to see and do, but alas we ran out of time. You can read more about them here.

The Wattle Girls
These lovely girls willingly posed for me - aren't they pretty in their wattle clothes?

Miss Wattle 2010
Here we see Miss Wattle 2010 graciously posing before hitching a ride with the horses. She was dressed in a lovely ballgown of green and yellow and sprigged with wattle. She said ballgowns and horses don't go well together and gave us a demonstration of how to fix this problem by tucking her gown into her purple satin bloomers!

Wattle
And of course - the wattle. Did you know there are over 600 different species throughout Australia? One species of wattle, Acacia pycnantha, is the floral emblem of Australia and is featured on our coat-of-arms.

Today's Quote: You are invited to the festival of this world and your life is blessed ~ Rabindranath Tagore

Three Businessmen who brought their own lunch: Batman, Swanston and Hoddle

2010-09-08T03:50:00.001+10:00

Three Businessmen Who Brought Their Own Lunch: Batman, Swanston And Hoddle

Nicknamed the Metal Men, this sculpture is one of the most popular pieces of public art in Melbourne and must have the longest public art name in the world!

The whimsical, life-size bronze sculpture of three businessmen carrying lunchboxes, is located in the heart of Melbourne, on the corner of Swanston and Bourke Streets. Artist Alison Weaver claims that while the men are named and motionless, they are also intended to be anonymous and to represent being 'trapped in the perpetual motion of consumerism'. Weaver figures these three Melbourne pioneers as 'pedestrians of vast time' who have returned to the city streets, and says her interpretation of them is driven by humour rather than by iconoclasm.

The Businessmen looking East

Created by Alison Weaver and Paul Quin, "Three Businessmen Who Brought Their Own Lunch: Batman, Swanston and Hoddle" was commissioned in 1993 as part of the Swanston Street Art Works Program, and was a gift to the City of Melbourne from the Republic of Nauru to celebrate the City's 150th Anniversary and unveiled on 20th April 1994 by His Excellency, the President of Nauru, Hon. Bernard Dowiyogo M.P.

This life-sized sculpture pays homage to Melbourne’s three pioneers, returning them to the city’s streets as pedestrians observing Melbourne’s development throughout time.

Whenever I see this sculpture, I am reminded of the short poem about businessmen -

She was Susie up in Sydney, she was Penny down in Perth,
She was Betty up in Brisbane the greatest gal on earth,
She was Molly down in Melbourne, the best of all the bunch,
But down on his expenses, she was petrol, oil and lunch!

Today's Quote: All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them ~ Walt Disney

The Queen Victoria Gardens' Floral Clock

2010-09-07T00:01:00.002+10:00

Floral Time-Keeper
Opposite the Victorian Arts Centre and National Gallery of Victoria are the Queen Victoria Gardens - Melbourne's memorial to Queen Victoria.

This huge floral clock which is opposite the National Gallery of Victoria, has over 7,000 flowering and bedding plants which are changed twice yearly. The clock was donated in 1966 to the City of Melbourne by a group of Swiss watchmakers. Behind the clock stands a bronze equestrian statue, a memorial to King Edward VII - Queen Victoria's successor. The statue, by Melbourne born sculptor Bertram Mackennal, was unveiled on July 21, 1920.

Today's Quote: Do not squander time for that is the stuff life is made of ~ Benjamin Franklin

Mushrooms or Toadstools?

2010-09-06T00:01:00.003+10:00

Have a seat
These bright, fun "mushrooms" can be found at Docklands Park between Collins Street and Bourke Street. The park is part of a city parkland in Victoria Harbour. There's BBQ’s and a new interactive Play Journey with soft ground so if kiddies fall off the swings or other gadgets they don't hurt themselves. It's a really nice place to have a picnic or sit and read a book. The free City Tourist tram stops at the front at Waterview Walk and there are public toilets as well.

City map
The map above shows the location of Docklands Park.

Today's Quote: French painter Rousseau was once asked why he put a naked woman on a red sofa in the middle of his jungle pictures. He answered, "I needed a bit of red there" ~ Jean Jacques Rousseau

Queens Bridge...and... Harry Houdini

2010-09-05T07:40:00.004+10:00

An historic road bridge, Queens Bridge was built in 1899 replacing an earlier wooden footbridge built in 1860 and is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register.

Queens Bridge

On the north side of Queens Bridge is Queens Wharf and Enterprize Wharf with Banana Alley to the right. Heading south over the Yarra, the bridge is near the Crown Entertainment Complex at Southbank, and lies between Yarra Promenade and Southbank Promenade. The bridge is an an important traffic link connecting the north of Melbourne with the south. Tram No 55 runs from North Coburg and crosses over Queens Bridge to South Melbourne terminating at Domain Interchange.
This photo was taken from Yarra Promenade and is facing north.

Close up of decorative artwork
Built by constructor David Munro, the bridge is a very flat arch, and has five spans constructed of wrought iron plate girders. The bridge rests on iron cylinders filled with concrete, in groups of eight, with arched bracing between.

Wrought iron plate girder span
This photo shows one of the wrought iron plate girder spans. Photo taken from Batman Park and is facing south west.

Lacework on Queens Bridge
At each end of the bridge is decorative iron lacework, so beloved by the Victorians.

Queens Bridge circa 1900
Melbourne certainly has grown since this photo was taken. (Photo courtesy of the National Library)

SOME FASCINATING HISTORY:
Are you aware that the famous Harry Houdini jumped off the Queens Bridge Melbourne one hundred years ago?

Harry Houdini jumping off Queens Bridge

In 1910 Harry Houdini jumped off Queens Bridge bound in 25 pounds of chains and irons to a crowd of some 20,000 very excited onlookers. Crowds had started gathering early, it was a stinking hot day, so hot you could fry an egg on the footpath, (Melbourne was in the middle of a heatwave) and people from all walks of life lined the bridge and the banks of the Yarra to watch this amazing feat.

Harry arrived by car dressed in navy blue neck-to-knees (bathers), he then had handcuffs attached to his wrists, heavy chains wrapped and padlocked around his head and body and his arms immobilised. After diving into the water, the crowd held its breath. After what seemed an eternity, but was in actual fact only a few minutes, Harry's head surfaced and he triumphantly waved the chains around in his hand. You can read more about it here. (Photo courtesy of the State Library of Victoria)

Today's Quote: The easiest way to attract a crowd is to let it be known that at a given time and a given place someone is going to attempt something that in the event of failure will mean sudden death ~ Harry Houdini

For more Sunday Bridges, visit San Fransisco Daily Photo

Weekends Reflections - Fish Out Of Water

2010-09-04T12:50:00.005+10:00

Like a fish out of water?
Taken in front of the Melbourne Aquarium along the banks of the Yarra.

To see other Weekend Reflections click here.

Today's Quote: A circle is the reflection of eternity. It has no beginning and it has no end ~ Maynard James Keenan

The Painted Poles in City Square

2010-09-02T04:21:00.000+10:00

Poles or jousting sticks?
You could be forgiven for mistaking this tall pole of considerable height for a jousting stick reminiscent of the days of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table!

This sculpture by Indigenous artists Maree Clarke and Sonja Hodge is one of three poles that have been painted with the Rainbow Serpent design and with native Australian animals. The work references Jennifer McCarthy's similar three poles (which I posted about in March) sited outside the State Library of Victoria. The work was part of the Swanston Street Walk Public Art Project and is not considered permanent.

About the artists
Maree Clarke is a Mutti Mutti, Wamba Wamba and Yorta Yorta woman who has been working to revive the Koori art of possum skin cloak-making. Her designs are influenced by the patterns of the landscape and the stories told by her ancestors.

Sonja Hodge is a Mildura-based artist and helped create the Yuyu cloak for the Possum-Skin Cloak project and worn during the opening ceremony of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Today's Quote: Every artist dips his brush in his own soul, and paints his own nature into his pictures ~ Henry Ward Beecher

Theme Day - Open Air Market

2010-09-01T01:19:00.003+10:00

Sunday Market
I love going to Open Air Markets, or Farmers Markets as we say. There's something about stepping out into the fresh air, inhaling the sweet smell of Mother Nature with a gentle breeze blowing softly on your face as you stroll along the stalls looking for a bargain, or some fresh produce. Then sitting down later under a shady tree with a picnic lunch and a nice hot cuppa. Mmmm...heavenly

I usually make a day of it and go to one of the country bakeries for afternoon tea and stop off and wander around a country town on the way home.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's Quote: As a community gathering place, the farmers market will become a location to discover all of the uniqueness that a farmers market has to offer ~ Victoria Laise Jonas

Melbourne Day - 175 Years

2010-08-31T11:06:00.005+10:00

It was on this day 30th August, 1835 that the city of Melbourne was founded - the day the first European settlers landed on the north bank of the Yarra River from the schooner Enterprize in 1835.

This pioneering group was led by Captain John Lancey with Launceston builder George Evans and his servant Evan Evans, carpenters William Jackson and Robert Hay Marr, ploughman Charles Wise and blacksmith James Gilbert and his wife Mary making up the party.

It was on 30 August 1835 that these first settlers landed and commenced with the building of a thatched storage hut and the clearing of land along the north bank of the Yarra River. This location today is known as Enterprize Park where Williams Street and Flinders Street meet near the old Customs House.

And so we say Happy Birthday Melbourne - 175 Years.
The City of Melbourne had several events and attractions to mark this auspicious occasion.

Traditional Owners
The people of the Kulin nation are the traditional owners of the land that became Melbourne, including the Boonwurrung, Woiwurrung, Taungurung and Djadjawurrung people, who gathered in this place for ceremonies and cultural activities.

At City Square on the corner of Swantson and Collins Streets, was the birthday cake and entertainment.
Below is a photo of Wurundjeri dancers preparing to perform a traditional dance -

The Story of Creation - Bunjil the Creator

I took this with my camera yesterday - it is the story of creation and tells of Bunjil. This is part of the Dreamtime.

Melbourne Day celebrates more than just the day the city was founded. It represents the point at which the proud community of Melbourne began.
And it is a day to celebrate all that makes Melbourne one of the world's most liveable cities.

Melbourne Day Song 30 August 2010
A special song was written to mark 175 years. This is the first public performance and is sung by Melbourne school children from various primary schools.

When I made this video yesterday, I tried to get all the children in the choir on here. Steven Spielberg I am not, but hopefully I will get better with practice.☺

Lyrics
Under blue skies
Southern Blue Skies
Melburnians always meet together
Under grey skies,
Southern Grey skies,
Melburnians meet in any weather.
The Wurundjeri
And the Boonerwrung
People of the Kulin Nation
We've had settlers here,
Welcomed migrants here,
People from all destinations.
More people who care!
More people who come
To share this day!

Melbourne then and now

The city has changed a great deal in the last 100 years or so. Today, Melbourne is a great city with a passion for life, a zest for living and the best place in Australia for fashion, dining, cultural and theatre events, sport and recreation. So come on down to Melbourne and enjoy a day in one of the most convivial of cities.

Today's Quote: When you look at a city, it's like reading the hopes, aspirations and pride of everyone who built it ~ Hugh Newell Jacobsen

Election 2010

2010-08-23T07:41:00.002+10:00

Heads or Tails?
It has been a very nail-biting weekend here in not just Melbourne, but all over Australia. The Federal election took place on Saturday the results being what looks like a hung Parliament with the two major parties (Labor and the Coalition) each having 70 seats.

The results so far are Labor - 70, Coalition - 70, Greens - 1, Independants - 3, undecided - 6. Whoever governs Australia will do so with a minority government. Both leaders, Julia Gillard and Tony Abbott will be courting the Independant candidates.

Melbourne Daily Photo is a non-political blog so I will not be taking political "sides", however, if I was Prime Minister, here's what I think -

If I was Prime MInister
Of all the Aussie states,
I'd live on chocolate truffles
And swing on all the gates.

I'd have lots of money
What I wanted I would get
I'd buy me a brand new car
And then a Lear jet.

I wouldn't have to worry
When the water bill fell due,
Or phone, or gas, or SEC
They'd all be paid by you. (The tax-payer)

I'd be living like a king
Rub shoulders with the best
And then I could look down my nose
At all the poor in jest.

And so you see dear people
As dear old Malcolm said,
"Life wasn't meant to be easy"
You elected me instead.

Note: Malcolm Fraser was a former PM from 1975 - 1983.
SEC - State Electricity Commission

Today's Quote: The best argument against democracy was a five minute conversation with the average voter ~ Winston Churchill.

Skywatch Friday - Backyard Sunrise

2010-08-13T10:06:00.000+10:00

This was taken in my backyard.

Today's quote: There was never a night or a problem that could defeat sunrise or hope ~ Bern Williams

To see more skies around the world, click here.

Flinders Street Station

2010-08-12T11:49:00.000+10:00

The old and the new
This was taken at Flinders Street Station from Platform 5 and is facing south west. The tall modern buildings in the backdrop and the warm red brick of the old - there's a big difference in building styles.

The buildings are from L to R - Eureka Tower, PWC tower (Price Waterhouse Coopers), Freshwater Place and part of Crown Towers. The building on the far left of which only part is visible is the Langham Hotel.

The view of the platform is of the "other" end - the ramp leads down to the Elizabeth Street exit which is on your right. If however you should decide to turn left you will find yourself going along a walkway which will lead you to Southbank and the Yarra - see photo below.

Today's quote: Railway termini are our gates to the glorious and the unknown. Through them we pass out into adventure and sunshine, to them, alas! we return ~ E. M. Forster

Telstra Corporate Centre

2010-08-11T19:06:00.000+10:00

In the city of Melbourne is the Telstra Corporate Centre. Built in 1992 and standing at 219m high with 47 floors, it's in our top ten tallest list. It was designed by Perrot Lyon Matheison, the architect of Rialto Towers and is the world headquarters for Telstra. It is also a Melbourne landmark.

Of interest is the lift core - it is exposed through the middle of the building and used as a tower feature.

The Telstra building is located at 242 Exhibition Street.

Above: Telstra Corporate Centre

Below is the building in front of this modern glass skyscraper.

Above: In front of the Telstra building
Note the difference in design, height, medium and architecture. I was facing east taking both photos.

Today's Quote: We shape our buildings; thereafter they shape us ~ Winston Churchill

Sweet and Sour

2010-08-10T02:05:00.001+10:00

Are they real?
Yes, indeed they are. These bright and colourful fruits and chillies are at the Queen Vic. (Queen Victoria market) I wouldn't mind eating some of them, although I think I might give the chillies a miss.☺

Today's Quote: Next to jazz music, there is nothing that lifts the spirit and strengthens the soul more than a good bowl of chili ~ Harry James.

Spend a Penny?

2010-08-09T12:33:00.002+10:00

Tinkle Town
On the corner of Collins and Swanston Streets, these underground toilets are on the southern side of the Melbourne Town Hall. The female loos were installed in 1914, but the chaps had to wait a bit longer - male loos were installed in 1960. They are open 24 hours and an attendant is present from 7am - 7pm. Baby change facilities are available during these hours.

Note the impressive wrought iron gates and art deco lighting.

Did you know the City of Melbourne, which manages 54 public toilets, promises no person will have to walk more than 250 metres to find a "throne room" in the CBD? This photo was taken in Collins Street facing east.

Today's Quote: Psychiatry's chief contribution to philosophy is the discovery that the toilet is the seat of the soul ~ Alexander Chase

Scenic Sunday - Autumn Aurora

2010-08-08T02:17:00.000+10:00

Autumn Leaves
Don't you just love walking down a street filled with glorious autumn colour?

To see other Scenic Sundays, click here.

Today's Quote: Autumn is a second spring when every leaf's a flower ~ Albert Camus

Southgate Bridge

2010-08-07T08:25:00.000+10:00

Across the Yarra
Another view of our Southgate Footbridge across the Yarra which connects Southgate with Flinders Street. This shot was taken from the banks of Southbank and you can see the city buildings - our famous red brick of Flinders Street Station with it's iconic dome, the spire of St. Paul's Cathedral, and modern day sky scrapers with their mirrored windows.

Today's Quote: The bridges that you cross before you come to them are over rivers that aren't there - Gene Brown

Red Flower Graffiti

2010-07-21T20:31:00.004+10:00

Splish Splash
I was walking from the car park towards Main Street in Croydon when I spotted this beautiful art on the brick wall of a shop.

Today's quote: The holy grail is to spend less time making the picture than it takes people to look at it ~ Banksy

It's A Dog's Life

2010-07-20T19:54:00.002+10:00

That's telling you!
No dog owners can give the excuse they didn't know the rules - there can be no mistaking the instructions with this sign!
Seen down at Portsea near the pier. This small park is on the main street near Weroona Bay near the pier which is a popular fishing spot and also a good place to catch the sunset.

Today's quote: Dogs are animals that poop in public and you're supposed to pick it up. After a week of doing this, you've got to ask yourself, "Who's the real master in this relationship?" ~ Anthony Griffin

Thank you to Autumn Belle of Klang Malaysia Daily Photo for giving me this award. Please visit her lovely blog about Malaysia.

Coffee on Collins

2010-07-19T14:34:00.001+10:00

Coffee, Tea or Bonox?
Melbourne's city streets are a mecca for dining al fresco and even in the midst of winter, we Melbournians still enjoy sipping a coffee or sampling fine tea outdoors. Walking up Collins Street between Swanston and Russell Streets just past the Athenaeum Theatre after a day of shopping, you can sit and rest your feet under the lovely old trees in one of Melbourne's premier streets renowned for its style and glamour.

Today's quote: The powers of a man's mind are directly proportioned to the quantity of coffee he drinks ~ Sir James Mackintosh

What's The Time Mister Wolf?

2010-07-15T02:11:00.000+10:00

Tick tock tick tock
Or should that be tock tick tock tick? This arty clock is on the roof of the Woolworth's Supermarket at Croydon, an outer Melbourne suburb. Note the metal "leaves" and how they have been incorporating bringing a garden feel to the design. This is reflected in the choice of colours too.

Today's quote: Time is what prevents everything from happening at once ~ John Archibald Wheeler

Weekend Reflections - Mirror Image

2010-07-11T00:58:00.002+10:00

A river, a tree and a bridge
There's something rather inviting about a bridge over a river don't you think? Doesn't it just beg to "Walk on me" and cross over to the other side and see what's there - a ramble through a woodland patch or a stroll among the palms. To just walk and enjoy the visual sounds and sights of greenery with the abandon and innocence of a child.

This is the Maribyrnong and the Afton Bridge

Today's Quote: The trees reflected in the river - they are unconscious of a spiritual world so near to them, so are we ~ Nathaniel Hawthorne

To enjoy other reflections around the world, click here.

A Tall Story

2010-07-06T10:56:00.000+10:00

Able to leap tall buildings at a single bound
Yes, I bet Superman would have a field day with this one. This is Big Sky, a Credit Union. Located at 607 Bourke Street, this imposing looking ediface almost gave me a crick in my neck as I stood trying to get off a decent shot. While I'm not sure just how tall it is, it reminded me of the song, "When I was small and Christmas trees were tall"

Today's Quote: A skyscraper is a boast in glass and steel ~ Mason Cooley.

Autumn Glory

2010-07-04T17:23:00.000+10:00

The fiery reds of Autumn
I love the glorious colours of Autumn and was so taken with the beauty and colour of these trees when I was driving down a local street visiting a family member, I just had to stop and get out. The silver bit in the bottom right hand corner is my car. The Acer Palmatum (Japanese Maple) is one of the most beautiful trees, especially in Autumn when the leaves turn a rich, fiery orange-red. Unfortunately, the tree was so large, I wasn't able to get the whole tree in the photo. But here's another shot below -

Above: Acer Palmatum
These streets are in one of our outer suburbs not far from the Dandenongs - you can see the Dangenong Ranges in the distance at the top of this street near the main road. Photos taken 16th May this year.

Click here to see other Scenic Sundays

Today's Quote: God is the experience of looking at a tree and saying, "Ah!" ~ Joseph Campbell

Theme Day - Reflections. Maribyrnong River

2010-07-01T17:56:00.001+10:00

The Maribyrnong River

Cool, clear water
The Maribyrnong at 9.30am. The Maribyrnong is popular with joggers and walkers and many people use the shared path for trails walks and general fresh air walks. Further up is a BBQ area with rotunda and playground.

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Today's quote: What makes a river so restful to people is that it doesn't have any doubt - it is sure to get where it is going, and it doesn't want to go anywhere else ~ Hal Boyle.

Ruby Tuesday - The Red Chevy

2010-06-22T04:08:00.004+10:00

A grand ole classic
I was meeting friends in town recently one Saturday when I espied this beautiful old car. Gleaming red paint work, original tyres the chrome like a shining beacon and best of all - there were three of them. The male members of the wedding party were in tow but the bride I couldn't see. There's something about a red car - sexy and it turns heads.

Click here to see other Ruby Tuesday photos.

Today's Quote: If your wife wants to learn to drive, don't stand in her way - Sam Levenson.

Scenic Sunday - Geraniums

2010-06-20T04:30:00.003+10:00

Just the spot for a cup of tea
Imagine sitting here among the potted plants with a cuppa, perhaps a book to read, or just to sit and inhale the freshness of the greenery. This little corner is at the end of the verandah of a country winery with rolling hills in the distance.

Click here to see other Scenic Sundays

Today's Quote: The greatest gift of the garden is the restoration of the five senses ~ Hanna Rion.

Skywatch Friday - Ships That Pass In The Night

2010-06-18T10:23:00.002+10:00

Time to say goodbye
Down on the Mornington Peninsula, the ferry runs between Sorrento and Queenscliff across Port Phillip Bay connecting it (Sorrento) with the Bellarine (Peninsula). The trip takes around 40 minutes and is much faster than driving back to Melbourne, then heading west down the Princes Highway.

This photo was taken not long before sunset from the Portsea pier. In the first photo, the boat on the left is heading back to Sorrento and the one on the right is on its way to Queenscliff. As you can see in the second photo, they have passed each other. After taking these shots, I went back to my car and drove back to Sorrento to wait for the ferry to pull in where I took some more photos.

To see other skies around the world click here.

Today's quote: Like two doomed ships that pass in storm we had crossed each other's way: but we made no sign, we said no word, we had no word to say ~ Oscar Wilde.

My World Tuesday - Melbourne's Block Arcade

2010-06-15T12:18:00.002+10:00

Melbourne's equally famous Block Arcade is an impressive and historical shopping arcade noted for its beautiful etched-glass roof and highly decorative wrought iron and timber supports and having the largest mosaic floor area in Australia. The Block's French Rennaissance-revival design was inspired by the Galleria Vittorio in Milan (with which Melbourne is now a sister city) and is one of the finest examples of a 19th Century shopping arcade.

Some early history:
From 1856 to 1883 the site was occupied by Briscoe's Grain Bulk Store. This later became the site for George & Georges Drapers until 14th September 1889 when a fire swept through the building. Three firemen died fighting the fire which caused 200,000 pounds ($100,000) worth of damage.

Like many Melbourne buildings, the previous grain store was built on bluestone foundations and because of this Melbourne is often called 'the bluestone city'. The disastrous fire could not destroy the bluestone foundations, and the lavish new arcade grew on top of the old foundations.

Above: Block Arcade's etched glass roof
The Block Arcade was constructed in two sections in 1891 and 1893 and derived its name from the tradition of "doing the block", or parading around Melbourne's fashionable shopping streets. Designed by David C. Askew for the financier Benjamin Fink, with instructions to produce something similar to the Galleria Vittoria in Milan, the end result was one of Melbourne's most richly decorated interior spaces, complete with mosaic tiled flooring, glass canopy, wrought iron and carved stone finishings.

Above: Mosaic floor
The mosaic floor runs through the entire complex framed with beautiful timber shop fronts adding to the air of elegance and olde worlde charm. The complex is classified by the National Trust and is on the register of the National Estate.

Above: Victorian weighing machine
One of the many scales that are to be found in Melbourne's arcades and shopping malls. For only a dollar you can check your weight - pay to weigh! Many of these were imported from Britain at the turn of the century.

Royal Letters Patent
The sign above the scales reads "By Royal Letters Patent" - On 25th June, 1847, Melbourne was declared by letters patent of Queen Victoria to be a city.

Above: Central Atrium
The Block derived its name from the tradition of "doing the block". In the 1880s and 1890s, fashionable Melbournians would parade in their finest dresses, suits, hats and accessories along Collins Street and Elizabeth Street and around "The Block", chatting and socialising with friends before retiring for a cup of tea.

It was fashionable to "do the block" between 2.30 and 4.30, especially if you were on the lookout for an eligible beau!

Above: Block Arcade - looking south towards Collins Street
Situated between Collins and Little Collins and Elizabeth Streets, the Block Arcade is our grandest arcade and houses some of Melbourne's most exclusive retailers offering jewellery as well as handmade toys, leather goods, lingerie, cosmetics and shoes, fashion and giftware.

Above: Haigh's Chocolates
Haigh's was founded in 1915 by Alfred E. Haigh, who was born in Adelaide in 1877. The first Haigh's store in Melbourne opened in the 1960's. Their hand-made chocolates and truffles are a delight for all chocaholics as the chocolate has that deliciously decadent melt-in-your-mouth feel which only truly first class chocolate can give.

Above: Hopetoun Tea Rooms - 1892
The Victorian Ladies' Work Association ran a tea room in the Block Arcade until 1907. The association was disbanded but the tea rooms continued under a new name, Hopetoun Tea Rooms, named after the association's founder, Lady Hopetoun.

Upon entering, you could be forgiven for thinking you had stepped back in time over 100 years, for the vintage decor remains the same. Inside, the marble-topped tables sit beneath walls swathed in glorious wallpaper shot with green, white and black triffid-like flowers and is adorned with a double-etched mirror dated 1891. Serving such delights as pinwheel sandwiches, lamingtons, vanilla slices, home made scones and tarts, asparagus rolls and Welsh rarebits.

A selection of the finest teas is available. If you come in for a light luncheon or afternoon tea, don't forget to raise your pinkie as you partake of the fragrant Earl Grey.

Above: Block Arcade - Collins Street entrance
The arcade was restored and refurbished in the late 1980's by the Buchan Group, which upgraded the complex to modern retail and commercial standards while remaining faithful to the original Victorian vision. The work involved the reinstatement of original timber shopfronts, the repairing, cleaning, painting and illuminating of the upper facades to Collins and Elizabeth Streets, and the design of a new entry canopy for Elizabeth Street.

Above: The Golden Mile
Like the Royal Arcade, the Block Arcade is part of the Golden Mile heritage trail.

Today's Quote: If men liked shopping, they'd call it research ~ Cynthia Nelms

Click here to see other photos from My World Tuesday

Geppetto's Toy Shop

2010-06-14T14:54:00.001+10:00

Return to childhood?
The brightly coloured toys and kites outside drew me in and as I stood in Geppetto's toy shop, I was transported back to childhood. Forget the latest X Box and battery operated gizmos with bells and whistles - here are the true toys. When toys were made to last and a child's play ran rampant with his imagination. Puppets and marionettes, puzzles, games, kaleidoscopes and spinning tops - all the toys of yesterday that kept children enthralled for hours.
The next time you're down in Sorrento, pop into Geppetto's and see for yourself. They also have shops in Sassafras and Olinda.

Today's Quote: Growing up, I didn't have a lot of toys, and personal entertainment depended on individual ingenuity and imagination - think up a story and go live it for an afternoon ~ Terry Brooks

Melbourne's Royal Arcade

2010-06-12T18:07:00.003+10:00

Australia's oldest arcade is Melbourne's Royal Arcade with its timeless beauty and Renaissance Revival architecture. This beautiful piece of history draws admiration from locals and tourists alike.

Above: The Royal Arcade facing south

In 1837 Joseph Moore bought the land on which the Royal Arcade stands for 20 pounds ($10)and later sold it to Simon Staughton for 650 pounds ($325). Charles Webb won a competition held in 1868 to design the arcade and construction began the following year in June. It was completed by May 1870 and was officially opened by Lord Mayor Charles Amess.

Above: Gog and Magog
Gaunt's Clock is one of the most drawing features of the arcade which is flanked by two giant statues of the mythical figures Gog and Magog which have struck chimes every hour since 1892 and can be heard resounding throughout the arcade.

The sign 'neath the clock reads as follows:
(Left side) These two 7-feet giants have been striking the time on Gaunt's clock since 1842. They were carved from clear pine and modelled on the figures erected in Guildhall, London, in 1708 to symbolise the conflict between the ancient Britons and the Trojan invaders.

(Right side) Mythology tells of the giants Gog and Magog (also known as Corineus and Gogmagog) having been captured in battle by the Trojans and made to serve as porters at the gateway of an ancient palace on a site later occupied by the Guildhall. It is traditional for Gog to stand to the north and Magog to the south.

The statues were carved by Mortimer Godfrey and were modelled on statues in London’s Guildhall which were built in 1708 to replace those lost in the Great Fire a generation earlier.

Above: The Royal Arcade facing north
Melbourne's arcades are indoor shopping streets and were built wide to accommodate the gently swaying voluminous crinolines of the Victorian ladies who shopped the lanes in the late 1800's, their maids behind them to carry their purchases.

Above: Stained glass
Facing north towards the Bourke Street entrance, you can see the natural light that streams through the glassed roof supported by graceful Victorian lacework.

Above: Barbie, Babushkas and Boards
Some colourful wares caught our eye as we strolled around the arcade. My friends and I had had a ladies lunch earlier and as we stood in front of the Barbie poster we all sucked our muscles in and wished for a figure like that!

Above: The Royal Logo
The Royal Arcade along with Melbourne's Block Arcade is on the Victorian Heritage Register and like our lanes is a tourist icon.

Today's Quote: Whoever said money can't buy happiness simply didn't know where to go shopping ~ Bo Derek

The Butterfly

2010-06-11T00:50:00.000+10:00

Flutterbies and Flowers
This brilliantly bright mural is painted on the side wall of the Lord Mayor's country children's holiday camp in Portsea. The camp was established to provide holidays for children of the outback areas. Portsea is a seaside town on the Mornington Peninsula across Port Philip Bay.

When I saw this I was reminded of the song "Butterfly" written by the French singer-songwriter, Danyel Gérard. Click here to listen to the song. This is the English version I remember. This is the German version sung by Gérard.

Today's Quote: The butterfly is a flying flower, the flower a tethered butterfly ~Ponce Denis Écouchard Lebrun.