The Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse stands as a jagged white sentinel at Australia's southwestern tip, where the Indian and Southern Oceans collide in perpetual battle. Built from local limestone in 1895, its 39-meter tower projects light visible 48 kilometres out to sea—a necessity given the graveyard of shipwrecks lurking beneath its gaze. **Function & Structure** - Active light station operated by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority - The original first-order Fresnel lens still rotates, amplified by modern electric lamps - Fog horn blasts low-frequency warnings during thick swells (audible 5km inland) **Surrounds & Significance** - Built atop ancient granite where Dutch navigator Leeuwin charted the coast in 1622 - Windswept heathland dotted with salt-tolerant banksias and carnivorous sundews - Visitor centre displays artifacts from shipwrecks: SS *Perth* (1882) lies just offshore - Historic cottages house volunteer lighthouse keepers maintaining traditions

Little sign left of what would have once been a vibrant meeting place.

The Arno Bay jetty stretches like a weathered finger into the turquoise shallows. Fishermen lean against splintered rails, their lines vanishing into the shimmer. Below, silver flashes dart through swaying seaweed. The air tastes of salt and diesel. At dusk, pelicans perch on creaking pylons, silhouetted against a molten sunset. Locals know this rhythm—the groan of timber, the cry of gulls, the slow pulse of tides reclaiming the shore.

The Cape Leeuin Lighthouse is an iconic structure situated at the most south-westerly point of mainland Australia, in the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park of Western Australia. It was built in the 19th century and has been operational since 1896, playing a crucial role in maritime navigation and safety. The lighthouse stands proudly atop a series of cliffs, with the powerful beacon reaching out over 25 nautical miles to guide ships through the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean. The surrounding area is a haven for wildlife, including whales, seals, and various bird species, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts. The lighthouse itself is open for tours, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the lighthouse keepers and the history of the region. The rugged beauty of the landscape, combined with the rich marine life and the significance of the lighthouse, make Cape Leeuin a must-see attraction for anyone exploring the west coast of Australia.

Sleaford, a charming locality nestled in the heart of South Australia's Eyre Peninsula, is a tranquil gem that captivates visitors with its serene beauty. This rural haven is a tapestry of fertile farmlands and pristine coastal vistas, offering a delightful blend of agricultural charm and outdoor adventure. The community's welcoming spirit is palpable in the quaint streets lined with historic buildings, while the nearby beaches whisper secrets of the Southern Ocean. Sleaford is an idyllic escape, where the scent of the sea intertwines with the rustic allure of the countryside, inviting exploration of its hidden treasures and the creation of unforgettable memories amidst its peaceful embrace.

Lake Tyrell, an awe-inspiring natural salt pan located in Victoria, Australia, serves as a mesmerizing stage for the intricate dance of salt production. Here, under the vast, open sky, salt crystals emerge from the briny depths, sculpting a landscape that mirrors the sky's mood. As the sun kisses the earth, evaporation orchestrates a symphony of transformation, leaving behind a gleaming, white canvas of pure mineral wealth. The lake's saline ballet is a testament to nature's alchemy, where brine is artfully harvested, purified, and crystallized to enrich human lives with this essential mineral, while the surrounding area whispers tales of ancient seas and timeless beauty. After dark the stars come out to play without being hidden by city lights.

On a recent houseboat trip along the Murray River we tied up overnight at this long abandoned camp site.