Minke Whales migrating past Captain Cook Lookout

Minke Whales in close

Minke whales close to shore in Copacabana bay motivated Dave and I to go up to Captain Cook Lookout with the binoculars this morning to get a better look. We saw 6-8 whales. Some were further out and more difficult to see/identify. They were traveling north swiftly on this brisk winter morning. The ones closest to the Lookout were Minke whales. They seemed to be traveling in pairs. I managed to get a couple of snaps with my Iphone camera.

The Rip Bridge over Brisbane Water

This picture shows the "blow" -  which is what we look for

Five Lands Walk 2014 - Photography Contest

5 Lands Walk Photography Contest
Secondary Student Winner
Clara Smith

Please allow me my bragging rights as I announce to the world that my daughter, Clara won the 5 Lands Walk photography competition in the Secondary School category.  This year's theme was "Dreaming" which Clara's photo captured according to the judges.

Clara with Federal Senator Deborah O'Neill
& her photo

It was a stunner of a day for the annual Five Lands Walk on Saturday 21 June.  Sunny winter day, perfect temperature.   The walkers were energized and moving well from MacMasters Beach to Copcabana when Neo and I walked with them.

Neo with his Chinese fish

Copacabana Primary School students performing
at 5 Lands Walk

Neo found his art work on display along the way.  Artwork created by students from Copacabana PS and Kincumber PS lined the beach walk.
There were 2 dance performances by students from Copacabana Primary School, and Neo took part in both.  Zoe was at her soccer game so could not join in.

In addition to the photograph at MacMasters Beach surf club, Clara had artwork on display at both Copacabana Surf club and North Avoca surf club.  Clara and her friends walked to North Avoca Beach (and back) to see her art.  Along the way they enjoyed the beach art on display in Avoca Beach and the kites flying over North Avoca.

Breaching whale

In the water, moving along with the walkers, were numerous whales - at the height of their annual migration to warmer waters.  

Kites over North Avoca

Blackwall Mountain Reserve Lookout

On a gorgeous Saturday in autumn, the kids and I went to the top of Blackwall Mountain.  It was a nice trek, and great views.  Here's a panoramic video

Filtered views of Brisbane Water

The kids having a break

Towards Sydney with Lion Island in the foreground, and Ettalong Beach below.
Views of Lion Island from Mount Ettalong Lookout here.

Another view of Lion Island -
also check out Lion Island from the Box Head Trail off Sydney's Northern Beaches

The Rip Bridge over Brisbane Water