It has been a very busy start to the year! I returned from mat leave and through myself into prepping not one, but two new online courses. Plus two lots of travel interstate to teach workshops, my usual assortment of Torquay workshops, a couple of licensing jobs and squeezing in a bit of painting time of course too!

My wonderful partner gifted me a trip to King Island for my birthday. It completely snuck up on me, but was so perfectly timed. It was time to take a little break and a wild, rugged island sounded heavenly (I know, I know, this idea isn't for everyone, but I LOVE it). We went there over Easter. It was quiet, wet and windy and we had a ball. Ate all the cheese, had steak and seafood and explored all the sights.

The first thing I noticed when we landed were the curious trees. Paperbarks, really tall and spindly in great dense stands everywhere. I imagine this is what the island was like all over before it became inhabited.

 

Martha Lavinia beach was spectacular. I can't remember the last time I walked such a pristine beach and not a soul in sight. The shoreline was scattered with incredible shells and treasures from the sea. This was a highlight for me!

 

 

 

 

 

Stokes Point was another highlight. The most southerly point on the island, it was so rugged and the surf was huge. There were also a lot of birds to spot, a huge variety and so many of them!

 

The calcified forest.

 

Porkys Beach, after gorging on too much cheese at the King Island Dairy.

 

Needless to say, have returned home with a very full cup and am excited to create some painting inspired by this rugged little island!