The collected works of ScottyB

A beautiful Sunday, not a cloud in the sky. Crisp air and a warmth that belied the fact we are almost in Winter.

This was the Sunday past. Kate was in desperate need of more photos for her Uni assignment - and being the absolutely amazing boyfriend that I obviously am, I obliged to accompany her to Glenrock Lagoon again as her guide and chief photograph dude.

We arrived much earlier than our last afternoon visit, meaning we could explore much further and deeper into the forest. And wow - I’ve walked it before, but I forgot how truly amazing and dense the forest is down there.

Beginning along the pathway, we encountered a bunch of these little (or rather big) guys menacing our walk. The Bull Ant out and about on its evening food scavenge hunt.

And plenty of native flowers still blooming despite the proximity to Winter!

We made another quick visit to the falls…

And the view from the top of the falls to the walking track on the other side of the gully.

As you progress deeper, it feels immediately what I imagine the middle of a rainforest to be like. Dense forest at all sides and very little light seeping through the trees.

Hundreds of stairs take you down the side of the mountain…

Magnificent trees shoot up from the undergrowth and pierce the forest canopy.

Occasionally you encounter a tiny break in the canopy and the light falls to the ground - and the undergrowth goes wild. Ferns, vines and moss - bright, vivid greens as far as the eye can see.

Typically, the time just flew by. It was quickly getting dark, so once again, we had to abandon our trip into the deep. But we will return.

More stairs on the way out…

We decided to head out to Mereweather Beach for an ice cream and a walk (and more photos) before the Sunset.

As it was, we only just made it in time for the last light of the evening. And it was sooooo cold!

Footsteps..

My girl, looking mighty pleased with a fantastic day. And the last hint of light.

Living 20 minutes from was is literally thick rainforest - and 25 minutes from beautiful beaches.

I love Newcastle.