Well this week has been a weird rollercoaster ride. But I still managed to squeeze in some nature journaling, up at the lovely Binna Burra. A mystery plant, a bird list, and a view into the forest.

All completed while being filmed for TV! Yes, you read that correctly. On Thursday, the lovely Ray and I were visited by a very hardworking film crew from the ABC TV’s Gardening Australia program. Ray talked plant fossils and I raved about nature journaling and wildlife illustration. I have no idea how the segment will turn out (but we seemed to be in safe hands), or when it will air, but I will let you know when I do, dear blog reader. 🙂

The next day, this placard and I went to Brisbane for the School Strike for Climate. I wanted to support the kids, but I think they supported me more. These kids break my heart, but they also give me immense hope.

Coloured markers on recycled coreflute – what fun!

Before the strike I recharged at The Library Cafe. A young woman wanted to know the story behind my sign. On my way across town, people smiled and gave me the thumbs up. Throughout the whole day I only got three negative responses, all from older men (one told me I was old enough to have more sense. Ha – the irony!). I’d like to think that public attitudes to climate change are shifting, for the better.

View from my table at the Library Cafe, State Library of Queensland

Then the buoyant mood was darkened by the terrible news from New Zealand. The next day was one of rain and reflection. Pictures of the bright and defiant kid’s faces mingled discordantly with those of grief and consolation. But the rain pattered down, and the mist cured the mountains. Yellow robins flew stealthily about the garden, glowing softly through the grey.

Today was the Beechmont Market.

View of the BBQ, and a couple of new doggy friends, at the Beechmont market today

It seemed that people wanted to escape the gloom, with plenty of laughter, conversation, patting of dogs, eating, browsing and a fair bit of purchasing too.

Lastly, I’d like to share with you a sneak preview of another Pollinator Link illustration that I also completed last week.

Willy wagtail with bungwall fern, nardoo and wavy marshwort

Bright and beautiful things are all around us, if you know where to look. And together we can defeat the darkness.

Until next time, happy nature-loving!