Chasing the Supermoon
From Lilly Hill, I watched the horizon breathe light — a red moon rising through smoke and silence.
There’s a certain pull to a moonrise — that slow, silent ascent that feels less like watching the sky and more like witnessing time itself unfold. When I saw the forecast for a supermoon over the Tomaree Headlands, I knew exactly where I wanted to be: Lilly Hill. It’s not the tallest peak, but it offers a clear line to the east, a perfect window to the horizon where the moon would lift itself from the sea.
By late afternoon, the air was thick with the faint tang of smoke. Somewhere beyond the bay, burn-offs had left a hazy veil hanging over the coast. The sky itself was restless — scattered clouds drifting westward, catching the warm tones of the setting sun. It was one of those evenings when the world feels suspended between two kinds of light.
I set up on the lookout, the bush below whispering in long, slow breaths. Nelson Bay township was beginning to settle in for the night- the lights had not yet turned on. The moon was due to rise just minutes before sunset — a rare overlap when the day and night share the same sky. As the sun sank behind me, the western clouds turned molten, washed in pinks and copper-reds that deepened by the minute. The smoke haze turned the horizon into a soft watercolor blur.
The sleepy town of Nelson Bay settles in for the night as the supermoon rises in the background through Tomaree Headlands.
Then, almost imperceptibly at first, the moon appeared. A dull orange disc, rising through the haze like an ember lifting from a dying fire. It swelled as it climbed — vast, luminous, impossibly still — threading itself through the folds of Tomaree’s dark silhouette.
For a while, everything was quiet. The birds had settled. The wind had eased- but thankfully kept the mossies at bay, those things are relentless up here. The light had equal weight on both sides of the sky — sun fading west, moon blooming east. The smoke gave it a strange beauty, muting the glare and painting the moon in tones of rose and rust.
Yacaaba with the moon rising to the south of it.
Standing there on Lilly Hill, watching the balance shift from day to night, I thought about how often we chase light — sunrises, sunsets, moonrises — as if they’re fleeting things to be captured. But moments like this remind me: they’re not trophies. They’re invitations. To pause. To notice. To remember that even through haze and imperfection, beauty finds its way through.
Author’s Note
The supermoon that night didn’t blaze gold or silver — it rose quiet and red, veiled by smoke and dusk. But maybe that’s the point. Sometimes the beauty isn’t in clarity, but in the soft blur that makes you linger a little longer before the light fades.
Between Darkness and Dawn
I climbed through webs and wind to find the sky on fire — a fleeting promise kept by morning light.
After clocking off from the factory at midnight, the world felt heavy with silence. Most would turn homeward, collapse into sleep, and let the night swallow the hours before dawn. But not me. The forecast whispered of a “colourbomb” sunrise, and the thought of that fleeting fire above the sea was enough to keep me awake.
By 3:30am my alarm was calling me back to life. Soon after, I was on the climb, the beam of my headlamp cutting through a shroud of darkness. Quarry Hill rose ahead, its outline sharp against the fading stars. Each step forward tangled me deeper into the night — through a maze of silver webs strung across the path, through the hush of the bush still holding its breath.
The rocks shifted beneath my boots, the climb uneven and uncertain. But fatigue fell away with each gust of cool air, each glimpse of the horizon widening above me. When I reached the top, the wind was waiting — strong, restless, tugging at my jacket, howling across the ridge like it wanted to carry me away.
Below, the sea murmured- waves crashing against the rocks of Wreck beach. And beyond it, the Point Stephens Lighthouse pulsed its rhythm into the dark — a slow, steady heartbeat against the sleeping world.
Then, at last, the first breath of dawn. A faint shimmer brushed the horizon, and the clouds — a dance of alto-cumulus and cirrus — caught fire. Gold spilled into pink, pink into orange, orange into the deep blue of retreating night. The familiar sound of the whip birds made the moment just perfect.
Box Beach just below with the Spit and Fingal Island in the distance. I timed the shot to pick up the lighthouse flashing.
For a brief moment, everything stilled. The wind eased, the ocean hushed, even the birds seemed to pause — as if the whole world was holding its breath to watch the light arrive.
My vantage point on the top of Quarry Hill. It was quite windy on the north face, but if you moved towards the southern side, it was a bit more protected from the north-westerly wind.
And standing there, after climbing through the quiet hours, I understood: the climb, the darkness, the waiting — they were all part of it. You don’t find colour like that without first walking through the black.
Looking down towards Wreck Beach. To the left is Shoal Bay, stretching out to Nelson Head. The mountains to the North are Stephens Peak, Tomaree and Yacaaba.
Author’s Note
Sometimes the best light is the one you have to fight to see. The kind that asks for sleepless hours, for cold winds and uncertain steps. But when it comes — spilling over the hills, setting the sea alight — you remember why you came. It’s not just about the sunrise; it’s about the climb through darkness that makes it burn so bright.
Welcome to storm season 2025
Chasing the First Storm of the Season
The first storm of the season rolled into the Bay on a Friday night — a full symphony of light and thunder. From the moment I saw it building on the horizon, I knew I couldn’t just watch it from home. I grabbed the camera and made for the top of Gan Gan Hill, my favourite vantage point for when the sky decides to put on a show.
The storm was slow-moving at first, crawling in from the west like it was testing its strength. The sky pulsed with flashes of distant lightning, each one a promise of what was to come. I could feel the tension building — that electric mix of humidity and anticipation that always comes before the first real storm of summer.
As it gathered pace, I moved with it, trying to stay one step ahead. My goal was clear: be in the right spot to capture the moment it hit Shoal Bay. By the time it reached the cooler waters of the coast, the storm had found its full voice. Bolts of lightning began crashing down in furious succession, the sky alive with energy. And then came the rain — heavy, relentless, blurring the horizon in sheets of silver.
It was both frightening and exhilarating. My heart raced as bolt after bolt struck the ground around me, the thunder cracking like gunfire and echoing across the water. Every flash illuminated the Bay in ghostly whites and purples, revealing a world caught between chaos and beauty.
There’s something raw about moments like this — when nature reminds you just how small you are, and yet, how alive. As the storm passed and the last rumbles faded into the distance, I stood there drenched and grinning, memory card full and spirit completely recharged.
The first storm of the season never disappoints
Mobile showroom this Sunday
Our next mobile showroom will be at Newcastle Farmers markets this Sunday 19 October from 7am - 1PM. Here’s your chance to see our product and find out more about how we make them.
When Removing an Old Splashback Is Necessary: Lessons from a Tough Installation
Why Sometimes You Can't Just Install Over Existing Tiles—and the Challenge of Tempered Glass.
In most kitchen renovations, installing a new splashback is a straightforward process. Typically, you don’t need to remove the old splashback or tiles; the new one can be fitted right over the existing surface, saving time, money, and a fair bit of mess. That’s especially true if you’re working with glass splashbacks, which can often be glued directly onto the previous layer with minimal fuss.
However, every so often, a unique situation crops up that forces you to take a different approach. In a recent installation, we encountered exactly that—a scenario where removing the old splashback was unavoidable. The reason? The client wanted to upgrade to a 6mm thick glass splashback behind the cooktop, but there simply wasn’t enough space to add that thickness on top of the existing tiles. Sometimes the dimensions of the kitchen or placement of appliances leave you no choice but to strip everything back to the wall.
Complexities of Splashback Removal
Removing an old splashback isn’t always as simple as it sounds, especially when you’re dealing with tricky materials and stubborn adhesives. In this case, the walls behind the splashback were solid concrete—already a tough canvas to work with. On top of that, the previous installer had used an excessive amount of silicone to fix the glass in place. Silicone is fantastic for waterproofing and flexibility, but it can be a nightmare when you need to pry something loose. There was no gentle way to get the splashback off; smashing was the only option.
How Tough Is Tempered Glass?
This installation provided a great example of just how strong tempered glass can be. Tempered glass is designed to withstand knocks, heat, and everyday abuse in the kitchen, so it’s not surprising that after several hours of hammering, the glass refused to break. It was both frustrating and impressive—just goes to show the quality you’re getting with a glass splashback!
Eventually, I found a weak spot and, with the help of a crowbar and a heavy hit, managed to break through. If you ever need to do something similar, make sure you’re prepared for a workout and have the right tools on hand. It’s certainly not a job for the faint-hearted.
Safety First
Whenever you’re dealing with glass, especially when breaking it, safety is paramount. In this case, I used a vinyl sticker to cover the glass before attempting to smash it. This simple precaution helped prevent shards from flying everywhere, making the clean-up much easier and reducing the risk of injury. Of course, safety goggles were a must as well—protecting your eyes from stray fragments is non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
While most splashback upgrades can be done without removing the old one, there are exceptions. If space is tight or there are structural concerns, removal might be the only way forward. When faced with tough materials like tempered glass and stubborn silicone, patience, the right equipment, and a focus on safety will get you through. And if you ever doubt the durability of your glass splashback, just remember—it might take hours of hammering before it finally gives in!
An Unforgettable Encounter with Black Cockatoos in Bargo
If you're looking for a truly unique and heartwarming wildlife experience just outside of Sydney, let me introduce you to something special: the Black Cockatoo Experience at Feathered Friends in Bargo, NSW. This remarkable sanctuary offers an intimate and educational encounter with some of Australia's most charismatic — and endangered — birds.
Photographing black cockatoos can be a challenge… This takes it to a new level
A Sanctuary with a Purpose
Tucked away in the peaceful surrounds of Bargo, Feathered Friends is far more than a bird sanctuary. It’s a haven dedicated to the preservation and care of native bird species, with a passionate focus on black cockatoos. The team here — many of whom are volunteers — work tirelessly to protect, rehabilitate, and advocate for these iconic Australian birds.
What makes this place truly special is their hands-on, conservation-driven approach. The Black Cockatoo Experience isn’t a zoo-like visit where you peer at birds from a distance. It’s immersive, interactive, and deeply personal.
red-tailed black cockatoo
Meet the Stars: Black Cockatoos
The 90-minute experience takes you up close and personal with several species of black cockatoos, each more fascinating than the last. You'll meet:
· Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos – Known for their haunting calls and gentle curiosity.
· Glossy Red-tailed Black Cockatoos – Vibrant and cheeky, they love to engage with visitors.
· White-tailed Black Cockatoos – Rare and majestic, with a unique personality and presence.
These birds are incredibly intelligent and social, and the experience is designed to let their natural behaviour shine through. You’ll learn about their individual stories, their distinct personalities, and the threats they face in the wild — primarily due to habitat loss and urban sprawl.
Black cockatoo
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Feathered Friends isn’t just offering an unforgettable wildlife encounter — they’re fostering a connection between people and birds that could very well be the key to the species’ survival. Every visit directly supports their conservation work, including habitat restoration, education programs, and breeding initiatives.
And trust me — the connection you’ll feel during this experience is profound. From the gentle weight of a cockatoo on your arm to the mischievous way they interact with guests, you’ll leave with more than just photos; you’ll take away a sense of awe and responsibility.
white-tailed black cockatoo
Planning Your Visit
Due to the intimate and interactive nature of the experience, spots are limited — and book out months in advance. So if this is on your bucket list (and it should be), make sure to plan ahead. The experience runs for about 90 minutes, and all ages are welcome, though younger children may need supervision.
Bargo is around a 90-minute drive from Sydney (3.5 hours for us from Port Stephens), making it perfect for a weekend adventure or a day trip with purpose. We travelled down and stayed the night at the Caballo retreat, which is a cosy cottage on a nearby horse farm and a great place to stay.
Black cockatoo in the mating tree
More than just cockatoos - they have a few surprises in store…
The Black Cockatoo Experience with Feathered Friends isn’t just another wildlife tour — it’s an encounter that stays with you. It’s a moment of connection with creatures most people only glimpse in the treetops. And it's a powerful reminder of what we stand to lose if we don’t act to protect them.
So, if you love birds, conservation, or just meaningful travel experiences, put Bargo and Feathered Friends on your radar. You won’t regret it.
A macaw joins in on the show to the delight of the crowd
Chasing Shadows: Capturing the Lunar Eclipse Over Shoal BayMy Pre-Dawn Adventure on Stephens Peak
There’s something about a lunar eclipse that sparks a sense of adventure and awe, especially when the forecast promises clear skies over a spot as beautiful as Shoal Bay. With enthusiasm (and a hint of sleepiness), I decided that this eclipse deserved more than a casual glance from my backyard. I wanted a striking foreground to pair with the celestial show—so, Stephens Peak it was, and 4am became my time to shine.
Planning the Perfect Night
The ecliptic event was due to begin at 1:30am, but with the eclipse reaching its peak at around 4am, I wasn’t going to risk missing a moment. My alarm buzzed at midnight and, after a quick coffee, I packed my camera bag. I brought along a 16-35mm lens for sweeping wide shots, my trusty 24mm tilt-shift lens for stitched panoramas, and a hefty 100-500mm lens for detailed close-ups of the moon itself. That’s a fair bit of glass to lug uphill at that hour, but I figured it was better to have too much kit than not enough.
The Trek Up Stephens Peak
Shoal Bay was still and quiet as I made my way up the trail to a tiny ledge on Stephens Peak. The full moon lit up the track, casting long shadows and giving the whole scene a silver-blue glow. The ledge itself wasn’t much wider than my boots, and with a long drop on one side, I was glad for the bright moonlight to steady my nerves—and my footing.
Adjusting to the Unexpected
As the lunar eclipse began, I quickly realised that at a 60º elevation, the moon would be perched quite high in the sky. Shooting in portrait orientation became a necessity to capture enough of the sky and foreground. This meant that my 24mm tilt-shift lens, while great for panoramas, just couldn’t offer the height I needed. In hindsight, I could have left that lens at home and saved some weight for the climb. The 16mm portrait setup became my go-to for the wide compositions, and I made peace with the extra exercise—after all, who’s going to complain about a bit of a workout with views like this?
Dealing with the Dark
During totality, the moon’s light faded dramatically, and the world grew much darker than I anticipated. Before the eclipse, the full moon was a brilliant natural torch, illuminating the top of Stephens Peak and making it easy to move around. Once the show started, though, my trusty rechargeable lights became essential—until, of course, their batteries ran flat after a few hours. I ended up relying on my phone’s torch to avoid wandering too close to the edge while racing to change lenses and capture as many perspectives as possible. Mental note for next time: bring extra lighting for any prolonged astrophotography adventure. The final moments of the blood moon were perfect as the moon sank down towards Shoal Bay. Just as the red started to change back to the brilliant white of a full moon, it sank into a cloud bank so the final moments of the eclipse were lost- but I got the exciting bit of the red moon which was the memorable part.
Final Thoughts
Despite a few gear challenges and a brief encounter with total darkness, watching the lunar eclipse unfold over Shoal Bay from the heights of Stephens Peak was an unforgettable experience. The blend of natural drama and careful planning (with a side of improvisation) made for one of those rare nights that stick with you long after the moon has returned to its usual brilliance. Next time, I’ll be even better prepared—but for now, I’m grateful for the memories and the images captured beneath that ever-changing sky.
The lunar eclipse as it unfolded over Shoal Bay. the top moon image was at 3:30am, and the last image was at 5:10am, as the moon disappeared into a thick bank of cloud. The positions of the various stages of the moon are as they were positioned at their correct positions in the sky for that stage of the eclipse.
500mm shot of the moon in eclipse over Shoal Bay
Mobile showroom 6 September 2025
Join us for our Spring mobile showcase at the Newcastle Farmers Markets. 7am - 1PM at Newcastle Showgrounds Griffiths Road entrance.
The Spring mobile showcase at Newcastle Farmers Markets.
For this market we will have limited stocks of StacknPots available.
Quarry Hill Sunrise: Off the Beaten
TrackChasing Light, Finding Adventure
panorama from a hidden ledge on Quarry Hill
Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones that don’t go to plan.
Recently, I set out for Quarry Hill with dreams of capturing a perfect sunrise. The shoot itself didn’t quite work out how I’d hoped, but instead of heading home, I decided to explore a little further—and what a decision that was.
After a couple of hours wandering through the wild, I stumbled upon an incredible ledge perched above a sheer drop, offering a view too beautiful to pass up. The catch? The spot was way off the beaten path, buried behind thick scrub and impossible to navigate in the dark.
Determined not to let this location slip away, I spent a few hours hauling rocks to set up small markers along the route and rehearsed the trek until I could find my way back—no matter the light. It wasn’t all smooth sailing; at one point, I took a tumble (nothing broken, just pride!).
With a good weather window lined up and my health insurance double-checked (just in case!), I set out at 4am, fuelled by the anticipation of photographing a sunrise from a spot that, as far as I know, has never been shot before.
I captured the journey on video and have included a clip of the final stage, navigating my way to the ledge as the first light crept in.
Mobile Showrooms for July
We have two mobile showrooms coming up this week at Medowie and Newcastle.
Markets are subject to weather - please check our socials on the day before
Markets on rain, hail or shine.
Mobile showroom 29 June at Bimbadgen Estate
See our display of printed scenic glass splashbacks in our marquee
This week’s mobile showroom
The mobile showroom will be at Speers Point Park Sunday 15 June from 10am to 2 pm.
mobile showroom details for 15 June 2025
Southern Aurora lights up Boat Harbour sky
First day of Winter 2025 - The Aurora Australis becomes visible from Boat Harbour.
On the first day of winter 2025, Boat Harbour was abuzz with anticipation as nature promised a rare spectacle—the Aurora Australis, ignited by a substantial coronal mass ejection from the sun. This celestial event, a shimmering dance of lights across the southern horizon, was a direct result of heightened solar activity as the sun neared the peak of its 11-year solar cycle 25, an awe-inspiring phenomenon where the sun's magnetic poles flip.
Arriving at the Whale platform around 5:30 PM, I braced myself against the brisk winter air, with only the rhythmic lapping of waves breaking the eerie silence. This vantage point, renowned for its unobstructed southern view, was poised to offer a front-row seat to the show. As the evening deepened, the sky's inky canvas was punctuated by the ethereal glow of the Milky Way, setting the stage for the aurora's grand entrance.
As the clock neared 8PM, and my hopes of seeing something fading, the first hints of red began to ripple across the sky, delicate veils of light that quickly bloomed into vibrant curtains. The polar lights wove through the stars, their luminescent hues mingling with the celestial band of the Milky Way, creating a breathtaking tableau that seemed almost otherworldly. In the stillness of Boat Harbour, this symphony of light and colour served as a humbling reminder of our small place in the vast, dynamic universe. As the aurora wavered and danced, it was a moment of pure magic, a celestial gift that I was fortunate enough to witness and share with the many lucky onlookers who started to gather at this serene spot.
Transform Your Small Kitchen: The Magic of Scenic Splashbacks and Mirror Returns
Enhancing Space and Style With a Creative Twist
A small kitchen can often feel cramped, limiting not only your movements but also your creativity in the culinary arts. However, with thoughtful design choices, you can turn even the tiniest of spaces into a haven of style and functionality. One of the most transformative upgrades you can make is adding a scenic splashback paired with a mirror return. This clever combination not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen but also creates the illusion of a much larger space. As an added bonus, the scenic element of the splashback cleverly masks cooking splashes, bringing both beauty and practicality to your kitchen.
The Benefits of Scenic Splashbacks
Visual Illusion of Depth
Scenic splashbacks are a design marvel, often featuring picturesque landscapes, cityscapes, or abstract art. When installed in a small kitchen, these splashbacks act as a window to another world, giving your space a sense of depth and openness. A carefully chosen image, such as a serene forest or a crystal-clear seascape, can draw the eye outward, making your kitchen feel less confined.
A Pop of Personality
A scenic splashback allows you to inject your personal style into your kitchen design. Whether you opt for a modern skyline, a calming nature scene, or even a custom design that speaks to your tastes, this feature becomes the focal point of the room. It’s an opportunity to turn an otherwise utilitarian space into an inspiring one.
Practical Functionality
Cooking can be a messy chore, with splashes from bubbling pots and sizzling pans finding their way onto your walls. A scenic splashback, made from durable tempered low-iron glass, is easy to wipe clean and resistant to stains. The printed image further helps to camouflage splashes, ensuring your kitchen stays visually appealing even during the busiest cooking sessions.
The Magic of Mirror Returns
Expanding the Space
Mirror returns are the unsung heroes of small kitchen design. Used to frame the splashback or installed on adjacent walls, mirrors reflect light and scenery, creating the illusion of a larger space. They amplify the brightness in the room, making your kitchen feel airy and welcoming. When paired with a scenic splashback, the mirror return doubles the impact by reflecting the image, immersing the space in its beauty.
Brightening the Room
Natural or artificial lighting is essential in small spaces, and mirrors enhance this light effortlessly. A mirror return strategically placed in your kitchen can bounce both sunlight and electric light, eliminating shadows and dark corners that make a room feel smaller.
Combining Scenic Splashbacks and Mirror Returns
The synergy between scenic splashbacks and mirror returns is where the true magic happens. Together, they create a dynamic visual experience that tricks the eye into seeing a space much larger than it really is. For example, imagine a splashback featuring a tranquil beach scene: the mirror returns on either side reflect the waves and shoreline, making your kitchen appear endless.
Choosing the Right Design
To maximize the effect, choose a splashback image with a strong sense of perspective, such as a long road stretching into the horizon or a pathway through a lush forest. The mirrors will enhance this perspective, amplifying the illusion of depth. For contrast and balance, pair the splashback and mirrors with neutral cabinetry and countertops to let the design elements shine.
Installation Tips
Installing a scenic splashback with mirror returns requires precision. Ensure the splashback is securely mounted and properly sealed to prevent moisture damage. The mirrors should be positioned to catch the maximum amount of light while seamlessly aligning with the splashback for a cohesive look. Consulting a professional installer can guarantee the best results.
Additional Benefits
A Stress-Free Cleaning Experience
Beyond their visual appeal, both the splashback and mirrors are low-maintenance. Wiping them down with a damp cloth and mild cleaner keeps them looking pristine. This is particularly useful in a small kitchen where every element needs to multitask.
Enhancing Market Value
A well-designed kitchen can significantly boost the value of your home. Scenic splashbacks and mirror returns are unique features that prospective buyers or renters will appreciate. Their ability to transform a compact space into an impressive one makes them a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
Designing a small kitchen doesn’t mean sacrificing style or functionality. Scenic splashbacks and mirror returns offer a perfect solution for expanding the visual boundaries of your space while adding a touch of elegance. Whether you’re looking to brighten your kitchen, create a standout feature, or simply make cooking more enjoyable, this duo is a game-changer. So go ahead—embrace this creative design trend and watch your small kitchen transform into a masterpiece of spaciousness and charm.
Stephens Peak sunrise 26 May 2025
Two climbs in as many days—couldn’t resist. This morning marked the second 3:30am wake-up in a row, and I was headed back to Stephens Peak, a spot I haven’t visited in a few months. With upper-level clouds rolling in overnight, there was a buzz of anticipation that we might be in for an epic sunrise.
And it delivered.
As I reached the summit, the sky blossomed into an eclectic menagerie of pinks and greys, kissed with a touch of gold. The colours reminiscent of a flock of galahs. It felt like standing in the middle of a moving painting—each minute a different brushstroke across the horizon. The air was cool and crisp, charged with the quiet energy of early morning.
Off in the distance, I could see a steady procession of headlamps winding their way up Tomaree Mountain—other early risers drawn by the same irresistible promise of first light. There’s something communal about those pre-dawn climbs, even when you’re walking alone. You’re part of a shared pursuit: to be there when the world wakes up and the light cracks open the day.
Every sunrise is different, but this one reminded me—again—why I keep doing this. Why I set the alarm, lace up in the dark, and chase that fleeting moment when nature puts on her finest show.
#StephensPeak #SunriseChasers #EarlyMorningMagic #NatureFix #TomareeHeadlamps #BackOnTheTrail
Our next mobile showroom
Our next mobile showroom will be at Newcastle City Farmers Markets at Newcastle Showgrounds (Griffiths Road entrance) on Sunday 1 June 7am - 1PM. There will be a display of some glass panels with various prints highlighting the quality that goes into our production process. Find out first-hand how we make them and how our unique Direct to glass printing method ensures a lifelong product. Bring your measurements and we can give you a quote on the spot, so that you can see how our superior quality is very affordable.
It’s a fun day out, with local Farmers selling their produce direct to the public. We are honoured to be part of this long-standing Newcastle tradition.
Due to health regulations with the fresh produce, Newcastle Farmers Markets requests that you refrain from bringing your dogs along.
Quarry Hill climb at silly o’ clock
The last week shows just how brutal and beautiful nature can be. As the greyness of the past week slowly transcends into a fading memory, I took the opportunity to experience the awe-inspiring beauty that nature has to offer. It's not everybody's cup of tea to get up at stupid o'clock and climb the side of a mountain to watch the sun come up - but if you ever wondered what it's like, I made a little video clip of the trip up Quarry Hill this morning in time to witness nature's beauty arise from beyond my tiny perch a million miles away from the memories of the past week... It's just so nice to see some colour besides grey again.
The sun rises after a week of rain from the East Coast low of 2025.
Mother’s Day Mobile Showcase
The Medowie Lions Markets has been cancelled for this month due to rain affected grounds.
However, we will be at the Newcastle City Farmers Markets on Sunday morning from 7am to 1PM
Newcastle Showgrounds Griffiths Rd Broadmeadow
Get ready for the skyshow spectacular!
A spectacular celestial event is currently unfolding in our early morning skies.
The event, known as the Eta Aquariids meteor shower will be at its peak over the next few days, so I took advantage of the clear skies and headed up to Quarry Hill at 1:30am to witness the start of the meteor shower, but also to capture the Milky Way lining up with Tomaree. Normally, I would do this from Zenith Beach as I have done for many years, but I thought a change of scenery might be worth exploring, so off I went fumbling my way up Quarry Hill at stupid o’clock.
I saw my first shooting star just before 3am, just as the Milky Way had aligned itself. They seemed to be shooting in all directions and it was a bit of a guessing game as to where they would appear from. Armed with my bucket list of wishes, I saw about 30 meteors whizzing through the brisk night sky. I didn’t get to see any big ones as I did last year, but it’s still a great experience to witness this annual event.
The Eta Aquariids are debris from Halley’s comet, mostly ice and rock, that the Earth passes through every year around this time. This week is the peak viewing time for the meteor shower, and you can expect up to fifty shooting stars in an hour. The best time is between 3am and 5:30am to view them.
The best place to look is the northern sky, ideally in a place with minimal light. Zenith Beach is ideal for this, but you can also see it from any of the beaches that face north such as Baggies, parts of Soldiers Point, and Halifax (northern end of Shoaly) are a few spots.
Wednesday and Thursday this week are peak times and fortunately, there are clear(ish) skies to enjoy the spectacle. Grab a picnic blanket and a few snacks and enjoy this amazing light show while it’s at its peak. You don’t need binoculars to view it.
Here’s a shot from 3:30am this morning.
