Love what you do - Tree Stree Art Safari 2017

Some inspiration for you today and a look at the Tree Street Art Safari.

It's so important to love what you do, embrace your passions, and spend time doing what it is that moves you, what makes you uniquely you, and in doing so spread the joy. Your passion will show in your work. If we are happy in what we are doing, some of that will rub off on the people around us.
We only get one shot at each day, so make it a good one.

My photography is evolving into a different place. I'm following to see where it leads me. 
I hope you follow where your path beckons too.  

 Last Saturday I visited the Tree Street Art Safari which is centered around the beautiful heritage houses in what is known as the Tree Street area of Bunbury.  Artists and residents open their homes to display their own art work or host the art work of others. 
These artists are obviously following their own individual artistic paths and loving what they do.

 Unfortunately I wasn't able to get around to see all of the artists, but these are a few of those who I did visit.

 First off I visited Jeana Castelli who is an Australian landscape and seascape artist. Originally painting in oils, Jeana told me she has recently been painting with acrylics. She has been exploring and experimenting with various techniques and a variety of mediums and processes to create texture and outcomes in her work. 
You can see some of Jeana's work on her Facebook page - Jeana Castelli on Facebook

 Next on my list was Denise Gillies, from Lyndendale Gallery, and Lynne Mitchell who are printmakers and mixed media artists both from the Ferguson Valley and members of the South West Printmakers. Their work is influenced by the natural environment and landscapes and vary in styles from representational to abstract. 

Denise is a generous supporter of other artists through her Gallery on Crooked Brook Road in Dardanup. You can see more of Denise and Lynne's work at the Dardanup Art Trail later in April. 

 You can visit Denise and Lynne on their Facebook pages - Denise Gillies and Lyndendale Gallery and Lynne Mitchell  

 
Next I visited Neil Turner's art space. Neil was away at an exhibition in Brisbane but I had the opportunity to chat to his photographer wife, Sue-Ellen. 

Originally a farmer in the wheatbelt, Neil has been turning and sculpting timber for over 34 years.
Neil is well known internationally for his beautiful wood artistry, but also produces functional pieces from locally sourced woods that we all can enjoy. 

You can visit Neil, Sue-Ellen, and their daughter Kallie on Facebook at Turner + Turner
 and on the web at Neil Turner Artisan

 I was very pleased to be able to catch up with Deanna Mosca before she took her exhibition to Melbourne. 

I met Deanna recently at the Stirling Street Arts Centre where she works and tutors. Her work under the label D_Ranged, is in the style of pop and urban art, reflecting ideas on popular culture. 

This series of portraits which Deanna is taking to Melbourne are painted with acrylic ink on raw canvas and linen, with strategically drawn threads adding another dimension to her work. The eyes in these portraits draw you in, and they reflect a vulnerability and fragility. 

Here is an article in the Bunbury Mail newspaper about Deanna's Melbourne Exhibition - Local Artist on National Stage (Bunbury Mail)

You can visited Deanna on Facebook at - Deanna Mosca

 
Next up I visited Helena Sahm who I met at a Summer School workshop in January. Helena explores the built environment in her work, using a combination of recycled and new materials, particularly paper and cardboard, in three and two dimensional works. 

As part of her art practise Helena makes amazing sculptures from recycled cardboard boxes. 

You can see some of Helena's work on Art Finder - Helena_Sahm

I also visited my friend Jane Flower from Folios and Fibre. Jane is well known for her eco-dyeing and conducts workshops throughout the south west. I have attended several of her workshops in eco-dyeing, book making and Japanese Boro-bag making over the last couple of years. 
 

Jane practises the gentle art of eco-dyeing using Australian plants. There are no chemicals used in her dyeing process which is entirely natural and can be considered “slow” art.  Jane uses ecologically sustainable dyeing practices using the leaves and flowers of native plants to dye and print onto silk and other textiles.  The results are alchemic and individual – no two pieces are the same. I am really fascinated by the serendipitous nature of eco-dying and am looking forward to learning more from Jane.

You can see some of Jane’s work on Facebook - Folios and Fibre and on the web at Folios and Fibre 

Also part of the Art Safari was an Architectural Tour with architect Kent Lyon around the Tree Street area, exploring the history of the area, and discussing the changes and highlights of a century of design. 

At St Boniface Cathedral you could take time out by listening to the Canto Belles and Silver Tones, and at "Nana's House" you could sit and chat and enjoy a cup of tea in the Interactive Tea Tent, constructed from salvaged knitted and crocheted blankets.  

I only managed to scratch the surface of the Art Safari which was on from 11am till 5pm. I heard from one of the artists yesterday that 600 people came through her art space, which shows how popular the initiative is. The Tree Street Art Safari is a wonderful opportunity for artisans in Bunbury to display their work. You can read more on Facebook here - Tree Street Art Safari on Facebook


The next local art event in our area is the Ferguson Valley Art Spectacular and Art Trail from Saturday April 29 till  Sunday May 7, 2017. For more information Dardanup Art Spectacular 

I will be exhibiting at Lyndendale Gallery where I will have a range of my images for sale, as well as greeting cards and my images printed on cushions and tote bags.  

This is a new part of my photography art practise. I invite you to stop over at Red Bubble to see what is currently on offer - Life Images by Jill on Red Bubble

 Thanks for stopping by. Have a great week!
 And like the message on one of my new range of greeting cards says - be true to yourself. 

 Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you enjoyed my little look at the Tree Street Art Safari. I value your comments and look forward to hearing from you. I will try to visit your blogs in return. Have a wonderful week.

I am linking up to the link-ups below. Please click on the links to see fabulous contributions from around the world - virtual touring at its best!
 

Mosaic Monday 
Life Thru the Lens 

Our World Tuesday
Through My Lens 
Image-in-ing
Wednesday Around the World at Communal Global
Travel Photo Thursday 
The Lovin' Life Team over at Lifestyle Fifty
The Weekly Postcard 
Sky Watch Friday

The Old Timberline Trail, St John Brook, Nannup

Autumn is creeping in to our corner of Western Australia. Whilst the days are still warm, they are without the brutal burning heat of summer, and the mornings and evenings have a crisp coolness to them. I welcome this coolness and cloudy days as it signals to me the start of bush-walking season. 

A couple of weekends ago we revisited the Old Timberline Trail in the St John Brook Conservation Park near Nannup in Western Australia's south west. As we walked we were enveloped by eucalyptus perfume.

 Walking along the Old Timberline Trail it is hard to imagine its past. The echoes of axes and saws, the thud of falling trees, the shouts of work men, and the rumbling of the timber trains over the lines have all gone. Now only birdsong or the rustling of a kangaroo in the bushes breaks the silence. Wildflowers brighten the undergrowth beneath the jarrah trees, and the flash of blue and red of a tiny wren lands and then is gone in an instant. 

First settled by Europeans in 1857, Nannup’s history revolves around the timber industry and the opening of the railway line in 1909.  

The Timberline Trail is a moderately easy 20 kilometre walk and cycle trail between Nannup and Cambray Siding, following part of an extensive network of disused forestry railway lines which once transported timber hauled by wood fired steam driven locomotives from bush camps to Barrabup Timber Mill and then to Busselton Jetty for export during the early 20^th Century.  

The Trail, which can be broken into sections making it ideal for day or overnight walks, is marked by white triangular signs displaying an axe.  Interpretive signage along the way gives walkers a historical insight into the timber industry and the life of the timber cutters.  The majority of the railway sleepers have been removed but a few can still be seen along the Trail.  

The first 10 kilometre section starts at the old railway bridge in Nannup, crossing the Blackwood River near the caravan park and winding its way to the Workman’s Pool campsite. From here it is 1.2 kilometres to Barrabup Pool where there are camp sites higher up away from the water.  Then 4 kilometres to Sleeper Hewer’s camp where there is a timber overnight hut. From there it is 4.8 kilometres to Cambray Siding. 

The St John Brook Conservation Park helps to preserve the riverine ecosystem and biodiversity of sheoak, bull banksia, jarrah and marri trees, swamp peppermint and wonnich scrub which supports around 38 bird species, eleven mammals and many other creatures.  You will notice the changes in vegetation as you walk along the trail. Although spring is the best time for wildflowers, there is always something flowering in the Australian bush. In June look for Banded Greenhood Orchids growing in an old stumps by the track.

Below you can see pineapple bush, dryandra, coral fungi, banded greenhood orchid, eucalyptus, and banksia

Between Workman’s Pool and Barrabup Pool, the Trail follows the ridge line above the Brook and then down through stands of wattle trees.

Barrabup Mill was built in this area in 1908, employing 150 men and producing 75 square metres of timber per day.  The mill and township ceased to exist when the mill was moved to Nannup in 1925.

A picnic area and platform overlooks tranquil Barrabup Pool. This pool was once for the exclusive use of the Mill Manager’s family, while the workers used Workman’s Pool.  It is now a popular swimming, recreation and picnic area. There is a path suitable for wheelchairs and prams, and also toilet facilities. 

Barrabup Pool

From Barrabup Pool a bridge crosses St John’s Brook and climbs up through jarrah and banksia trees to join the old railway track on the ridge line above the Brook.  It is a shady easy walk.  Not far along the track deviates towards the Brook before looping back to the Potato Patch where vegetables were once grown and transported to the Barrabup Mill Store by horse and cart. 

The Potato Patch

 After walking through an area of dryandra and a section dominated by tall pineapple bushes, the track deviates to the right off the main trail and goes steeply down to the Brook leading you to a disused timber railway bridge spanning the gully.  The bridge was constructed by manual labour over 80 years ago. The huge beams were hewn from trees at the site and the bridge built following rough plans that were revised as the bridge progressed.  Please be aware of caution signs and do not venture out onto the bridge.

disused timber railway bridge

From here the trail passes through an old rail cutting and brings you to Sleeper Hewer's camp situated above two wide pools of the Brook. The fully enclosed overnight hut can accommodate 4-6 people on wooden bunks, and there are also tent sites. There is a water tank at the hut, but I would recommend carrying water with you.

As the railways expanded, so did the demand for railway sleepers. Prior to World War 1 there were around 800 sleeper cutters working in the bush along the railway line between Nannup and Busselton.  A sleeper cutter would be away from home a week at a time, living on basic food supplies and sleeping in canvas tents or simple wooden shelters in the bush. 

The camp is a tranquil place where bird watchers will enjoy the variety of bird life. If you stay overnight you may spot Brushtail Possums and hear the Tawny Frogmouth and Banjo frogs. 

Sleeper Hewer's Hut

From the hut it is as easy walk to Cambray Siding. Whilst little remains at Cambray Siding, you can see where the “navvy gangs” who travelled the railway lines repairing the tracks once lived.

You can also see evidence of how the timber fellers worked, felling 30 metres high and two metres wide trees by axe and saw whilst standing on a plank inserted above the base of the tree. This required strength, skill and fearlessness, making the timber fellers the glamour men of the industry.

Tree stump showing cuts where planks were inserted

From here it is only a couple of minutes to the parking area and the intersection with the old Nannup to Wonnerup railway line and the Sidings Rail Trail. Part of the Munda Biddi bike trail from Perth to Albany, this dual use cycle and walking trail runs from Jarrahwood to Nannup.

It is approximately 15 kilometres from here back to Nannup along the Sidings Trail, or you could arrange transport to pick you up at Cambray for your return to Nannup. 

disused railway near old Cambray siding

St John’s Brook is thought to have been a travel route for the Aboriginal Noongar people. It is believed that Nannup means ‘a place to stop and rest’. You can certainly still do that today in Nannup. Nestled on the banks of the Blackwood River surrounded by forests and rolling farmland, Nannup is a quiet place to take time out.

The Nannup Visitor Centre can give you details of other walks in the area, several of which start near the Visitor Centre, including the Heritage Town Walk and Kondil Wildflower Walk. You can also canoeing and fish in the Blackwood River or just relax with a book and a glass of local wine. Well known for its gardens, the annual Nannup Flower and Garden Festival featuring tulips and daffodils, bring visitors to Nannup every year. 

Nannup on a quiet Sunday afternoon

Whilst in Nannup, be on the look out for the famed Nannup Tiger – the Thylacine – the largest known carnivorous marsupial, it is now officially extinct, although stories still abound of its existence in the forests around Nannup.  Perhaps you may see one along the Timberline Trail. 

INFORMATION BOX          

                                                         
Where is it: Nannup is located approximately 60 kilometres south-east of Busselton on the Vasse Highway.

The “Old Timberline Trail” is a 20 kilometre walk and cycle trail which commences from the old railway bridge at the end of Brockman Street near the Nannup Visitor Centre, travels through St John’s Conservation Park and ends at Cambray Siding.

Camping: Camping is allowed at Workman’s Pool and Barrabup Pool: fees apply.

The hut Sleeper Hewer’s Camp can accommodated 4-6 people – nil fees.  Plus tent sites.

Nights can be very cold so bring warm clothing and bedding.

Accommodation in Nannup: Nannup Caravan Park is situated adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre in Brockman Street.  There are also various cottages and farm stays in the Nannup area. 

For more information click on the links below - 

Everything Nannup

DPAW-St John's Brook information 

DPAW-St John's Brook brochure

Thank you so much for stopping by. I hope you have enjoyed this walk down the old Timberline Trail. I value your comments and look forward to hearing from you. I will try to visit your blogs in return. Have a wonderful week.

I am linking up to the link-ups below. Please click on the links to see fabulous contributions from around the world - virtual touring at its best!
 

Mosaic Monday 
Life Thru the Lens 

Our World Tuesday
Through My Lens 
Image-in-ing
Wednesday Around the World at Communal Global
Travel Photo Thursday 
The Lovin' Life Team over at Lifestyle Fifty
The Weekly Postcard 
Sky Watch Friday

International Women's Day - 8 March 2017

 Hi girlfriends! Did you do anything for International Women's Day last week?

Last Wednesday I went to a fabulous International Women's Day morning tea and presentation held by the South West Women's Health and Information Centre.  

What a wonderful vibe there was in the room with all these women connecting, reconnecting, meeting, chatting, exchanging. At one point the lady who was sitting next to me, who I had just met said, "is this what you call a gaggle of women?" - it certainly sounded like it - in a good way!

 So today, in recognition of International Women's Day I thought I would share with you some of the positive thoughts the five speakers gifted us with during the morning. The  focal themes for me which I received from the morning were - It is never too late to start.... and.... life is too short not to follow your passions - and a message which follows my own mantra - be true to yourself.... and..... only you can make your dreams come true.

 Please click here to keep reading more - 

4WDriving on Bob's Track to Hamelin Bay Beach

Last weekend our eldest son took as along a 4-wheel-drive only track to Hamelin Bay beach, which lies north of Augusta and south of Margaret River in the Capes area of south west Western Australia.

We weren't sure of what we were getting ourselves into, but our son enjoys his 4-wheel-driving, and we decided to tag along for a family day at the beach at Hamelin Bay. We left home at about 7am, and headed first down the South West Highway, onto Sues Road, and Brockman Highway, popping out onto the Bussell Highway at Karridale. From here we headed west on Bushey Road to Caves Road and then onto Bob's Track. 

It became immediately apparent to our son that the track had degraded quite a bit since his last trip here a couple of years ago. The guys took a short walk up the track to check it out, and then let their tyre pressures down before attempting the track. Reducing tyre pressure, and putting your vehicle in low range, is important for 4WDriving on tracks, over rocky ground, and through soft sand.  It helps your vehicle crawl over the rocks, reduces your chances of becoming bogged, and saves the track from further degradation. There are a lot of factors that come into play when considering what tyre pressure is best. My son recommended about 15psi.  If you are towing, reduce the tyre pressures on whatever you are towing too.

Please click here to keep reading more....

Making Scones with Yoda

A slightly different post for you this week....

For my writing homework for yesterday's meeting of my writing group, the South Side Quills, we had to write instructions for something in the voice of a well known person, writer, poet, personality.  An example we were given was writing in the voice of Shakespeare, but failing in my ability to write something of that caliber I chose Yoda, Jedi Master from Star Wars.  There was much laughter in the group as I read it. I thought I'd share it here for your amusement. Those that "know" Yoda will know that he says many things backwards. The words in "apostrophes" are his actual quotes from Star Wars. 

Enjoy you will I hope.

 Please click here to learn how to make scones with Yoda....

Being grateful for life in the retirement fast lane

 Whoever said life in retirement was boring certainly wasn't getting out and making the most of all there is to offer. Seriously? I was amazed when a retiree I knew advised me not to stop work because she was so bored in retirement she went back to work!  Like many other recent retirees I know, life for me has never been so busy, I haven't regretted retiring for a minute, and I don't know how I had time to work. Do any of my retiree readers feel like that? What do your retirement years look like?

When I was given redundancy back in April 2015, I took it as a positive and called it early retirement. An exciting new future had opened its doors for me where I could explore interests in my life which working had kept on the back burner. 

So because life is running so full at the moment, I only have time this week to bring you just a small snapshot of the last couple of months ....

Last week I was exploring Sydney - more pics and stories to come!

  Please click here to read more...

26th January is Australia Day - How Australian Are You?

26th January was Australia Day, the day when we celebrate what it is to be Australian, enjoying time with family and friends, and celebrating multi-culturalism, and everything that makes Australia the wonderful place it is to live.  

On Australia Day lots of Aussies celebrate with barbecue (BBQs), go to the beach, play sport, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy fireworks if they are being held in their city.  The Australia Day Awards are also presented to Australians and groups who have contributed significantly to our country and communities, and there are also Citizenship ceremonies for those migrants who are wishing to become Australian citizens today.

 Surrounded by ocean we live in a landscape that is very diverse from snow capped mountains to deserts. We also have unique plants and wildlife. And we live in relative safety and can enjoy fresh air and wide open spaces, whilst enjoying everything that a mix of cultures brings with it.

 Please click here to discover how Australia you are....

How to make a simple paper flower

  It is January and while the Northern Hemisphere is in the depths of winter, the Southern Hemisphere (where I live} is in the depths of summer. In both cases the best place to stay warm or cool and out of the elements is indoors. And whilst I would like to just sit down with a book, I need to keep busy. So I have a project for you that you might like to try - how to make simple paper flowers.

Back in December I shared with you how to make a paper wreath out of old book pages - if you missed it you can check it out by clicking here - How to make a paper wreath

 At the same time I made paper flowers - some were made out of old book pages and some from craft paper.  So easy! Would you like to give it a go? 
If you don't like the idea of cutting up old books think of it as up-cycling and giving them a new lease on life. 

 Please click here for instructions on how to make paper flowers...
 

Hello 2017!

As so here we are 2017 already! amazing. I wonder what 2017 will bring.  

Before I start this post I want to share a little pic of what many Australians do on New Years Day - go to the beach of course! Yesterday we spent the day with our extended family at my sister's summer beach house.  How did you spend your New Years Day?

 
Do you make New Year resolutions? I'm not going to make any outlandish New Year resolutions. But I do hope to travel more, photograph more, write more, exercise more, eat more healthy, listen, be still, spend more time with family and friends, and be brave to put "myself out there". This last one probably means being brave to take new opportunities that come along which may test me and take me out of my comfort zone. It might also mean taking a risk and exposing myself to critique by entering a few photography competitions.

But for today I send a prayer for PEACE throughout our troubled world, and a prayer that people will be kinder and more tolerant of others despite their race, creed, abilities, looks, financial status.... whatever. We all have a story, and we don't know all of the story of those around us. As they say, we can't walk in the shoes of others. So please don't judge, don't try to push your beliefs onto others. Just try to be a good person, listen, be open, and try to understand. 

The last couple of days I've been playing around with what I hesitantly call "fine art photography". I know it isn't for everyone, and I know I have a long way to go. But I hope to experiment more with fine art photography in 2017. 

Please click here to see my slant on fine art...