Picnic at Hanging Rock in Melbourne, Australia
My photograph was taken at Hanging Rock which is within an hour of Melbourne. I was so excited to visit here as we had to read the classic book and see the film ‘Picnic at Hanging Rock‘ at high school. The story, set in 1900, is about a group of school girls who go on a picnic at Hanging Rock. Some go insane and some just disappear never to return. While the story is fictitious the actual area is steeped in mystery and it is very easy to get lost amongst all the old volcanic rock formations. Even in this photograph there is some sort of weird light leak that has appeared. I love that somewhere as interesting and pristine as this is so close to Melbourne city.
Place you live: Melbourne, Australia
Place your photo was taken: Hanging Rock, which is only a short drive from Melbourne
Can you sum up Melbourne? I’m still trying to make up my mind about Melbourne as I only moved here 8 months ago. It’s a city that has a thriving arts scene, friendly people, cute terrace houses and the FOOD!! You can get everything and anything you want to eat here!
Occupation: Photographer
Preoccupation: Animal trainer! I’ve trained my cat Goshi to come, sit, stay, drop, roll, kiss, high five and say “Mama”! He’s been in the newspaper for his talents!
A perfect day in Melbourne? Have breakfast at the Auction Rooms in North Melbourne, then drop into Motto Melbourne to check out amazing selection of art books, after that it would be time for lunch at Dumplings Plus then perhaps visit the Queen Victoria Market to pick up some fresh produce.
If someone was visiting, what must they do? Take a day trip out of Melbourne and visit either the Yarra Valley (wine region), Kyneton (regional foodie hub) and the breathtaking Great Ocean Road.
A perfect meal in Melbourne? While I rarely ever go out to eat Italian one of the best meals I’ve had in Melbourne was at an italian restaurant called Lupino. Such beautiful flavours and impeccable service.
What is the best thing about your spot? I love living in such an urban city but then being within an hour of incredible beaches, vineyards, bushland and country towns.
What is the worst? The bloody public transport system. They have this silly travel card called a Myki that is meant to work like the Oyster does in London but clearly it does not. It is a total FAIL!!! It’s a shame that in a lot of Australian cities the public transport systems are useless and people really can’t get by without a car.
A little known fact about where you live? The weather’s not as bad as people make it out to be!
Where is your favorite place in the world? I think probably Santa Fe and New Mexico in general. The striking colours of the landscapes are just so awe-inspiring. I first picked up a camera there when I was 12 on a road trip with my Mum and brother. It’s really a photographer’s paradise and holds a special place in my heart.
I also, like many, have a soft spot for Paris. I could definitely see myself in a little apartment in the Marais!
Who are your three favorite photographers? Gosha Rubchinskiy, Nan Goldin and Eugene Richards.