Acrobatics by the Beach

After a swim at Coogee Beach yesterday, we had some lunch at one of the nearby picnic tables. While we ate we watched some people practising acrobatics. This pair were amazing together. 

Rail Trail

Today we did the Parramatta to Liverpool Rail Trail - a bike ride beside the train track. It has become a bit of a tradition and something we try to squeeze into the holidays.

We always stop off at Holroyd Park for the great bike track they have there, with stop signs, roundabouts and give way signs. The big kids zoom around while the little ones are happy to “Toot, toot!”

As we ate our celebratory ice blocks at the end of the trail, I spotted this guy hanging out waiting for his friend at Liverpool station.

Around the Sydney Opera House

On Monday we went to a show at the Playhouse at the Sydney Opera House. Looking around it was obvious that we were in a tourist zone. I loved how dolled up this lady was for her trip to the harbour.

I also wanted to show how the area is enjoyed by locals. Who are the locals around the Sydney Opera House? The runners of course!

And the suited-up office workers who take a quick break from business or talk business on the go.

And then there were these guys. From what I could pick up, they were alien robots or something in a kids program. They rushed out, ran around the poles and then back into the Playhouse!

Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre

We headed out to Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on Saturday afternoon to cool off at the pool. We weren't the only ones with that in mind! This pool is always crowded, but has the drawcard of slides, a whirlpool and other activities for kids. One of the favourite parts is the tipping bucket. It gets filled up, little by little, and as it gets close to tipping, it makes a ticking sound that gets faster and faster until the bucket gets so full that it tips and the wave of water splashes down on those below. Once the ticking sound starts, people rush from all around the pool to get a position below the bucket. I captured that moment, and if you zoom in on the faces of those around, you can see the range of emotion. I love the huge smile on the little girl on the left. Her mother just pulled her off the red slide moments before the water came crashing down.

Day 2

Today we went looking for a new car at some dealerships in Rosebery, and found ourselves in amongst a "2017 Plate Clearance Sale". They were putting on free food, drinks and entertainment for the kids. The sun was pelting down and we spent more time out in the sun than I had first anticipated. All that to say, here is someone who was working on the kiddy ride, yet still in good spirits despite the heat, and with a positive attitude and sense of fun...

Taking to the Streets

During the holidays I have been looking through the amazing photographs in Brandon Stanton's "Humans of New York". Like Brandon, I was fascinated by the people I saw when I was living in New York City. I too snapped many a photo, and turned a few of these into simple oil paintings.

Now, living in Sydney, I would like to create my own collection of what it means to be Human in Sydney. Quite a different place to New York City, but still with many faces, feelings and experiences. I would like to begin to capture these, and to share these with the world.

A photographer at heart, yet incredibly introverted, this will also be a journey outside of my comfort zone, to begin to speak to those around me, and hopefully capture more than just a photograph.

My journey today began in Wendy's Secret Garden (Milsons Point), just a short walk from the northern side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Luna Park. While strolling through the lush garden, with its winding paths and surprising treasures, I came upon these two enjoying a bread roll and jar of Nutella. The moment spoke to me of friendship, and the joy of finding a special secret place to enjoy an indulgence.

Caught up in the hustle and bustle of Luna Park I then found these two, looking at their reflections in the crazy mirrors. I loved that they dressed so cool, yet were not too cool for a bit of fun.

Heading back to the train, I spotted a hair dressing salon with fantastic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Inside a mother was getting her hair done, while her toddler sat wearing a fairy dress beside her.


Back in the city, on George Street, I spotted this guy taking a break and loved the sight of his socks and the unusual place he chose to sit.

Finally, in Redfern, I captured this photograph of Roger, who has been repairing shoes for 52 years. "Cheapest in Sydney," he boasts. And I collect my favourite red heels which have been repaired for only $10.

Not bad for my first day of photographs. Apologies to all photographed for my nervous beginnings!