Bunya Buzz

Been at the Bunya Mountains again, for what has become an annual pilgrimage. We were there for a week which was peaceful and blessed, but woefully short, I have to say. Not even close to being ready to re-enter the fray.

Anyway, lots of wildlife encounters as usual - pics below; including a bandicoot, countless different species of birds and one that I could have done without. I was reclining under a tree, struggling to care about the aesthetic philosophies I was reading, and I heard a noise behind me. Assuming it was a wallaby (which are everywhere all the time) I didn't investigate. When I did turn around it was to discover a pair of amorous brown snakes a few metres away - both of them a metre and a half at least. Fortunately for me, their minds were elsewhere, and I managed to control my urge to flee long enough to get a couple of good photos. On reflection, they are quite beautiful, really. When they had enough of each other, both went to ground.

I also got in a spot of painting. Nothing major, but below is something I dabbled with during the week. Now that I am back, it is right back into study and other less desirable tasks, so bird watching is pretty much off the agenda. Oh well.

Bunya Art

Been back three weeks now and feels like three months. The last few weeks have been stupidly busy and pretty crap, really. So it is nice to revisit the photos from the Bunyas and here are a couple more. They take me to another 'happy' place, wish I could be there in reality.

How cute is this little emerald dotted frog?

And, half his luck, this is the kind of little mini-Eden he calls home:

Speaking of which, the following is the digital piece I will be putting in the Moreton Bay Awards this year (opening this month). It is titled 'Self-portrait as Ophelia'. It features a number of Bunya creatures as well as me and the kitty. Even though it is a bit dark (given that Ophelia killed herself), I think it is a lovely peaceful resting place.

Finally, the following is a watercolour 'doodle' that 'happened' while I was relaxing up there and communing with nature. Heavy sigh.

Back from the Bunyas (again)

Just returned from what has become a yearly trek to the Bunya Mountains. Well, actually it was a week ago, and in the ensuing week back at the grindstone, the trip has faded into a distant memory. I could swear it was at least a month ago. The break was heavenly as usual. I have put in some pics below and more will follow when I get my act together and get them off my hard disk. Can't say I am thrilled to be back. Still, it was a boost to the ailing batteries and I got to hang out with some of my favourite people - of the avian variety.

There's this gorgeous young man (Satin Bower Bird) - I also got some good pictures of his harem members:

The little fellas are hard to catch with a camera - they're little teases, actually, showing up and posing then flitting off just when you get your focus right. Anyway, managed to catch this Eastern Spinebill after his bath.

Meanwhile, blogger has a 'new look' - some more change for the sake of it. I'm all for progress, but can't they leave stuff alone for 5 minutes? If it ain't broke...

Back from the Bunyas

Been away at the Bunya Mountains for a week or so on a much needed break. The place is truly a patch of paradise on earth, with its magical forests and many fabulous creatures. Definitely what my soul was hankering for. The only down side is coming back to the 'rat race' at the end of it all. Anyway, the following pics should show you why it is one of my favourite places to be: