Cyan and I are off to South West Tasmania again in January. We are going to Fly into Melaleuca, perhaps wander out to Port Davey for look then take our time walking on out on the South Coast Track.

We are looking forward to it so much. I even bought a pair of scales to weigh everything. Getting our pack weights down has had its rewards. I have been really enjoying walking with lighter packs. It is amazing what the ultralight bushwalking equipment available is. Gone is the sleeping bag and now I’m under an ultra lite quilt made in Sydney by underclingmike. The process of removing things is fascinating. Very similar to framing your photography. Can I leave it out and still be comfortable enough for the ten days we will be out there. Last year I gave up my precious milky tea for a week. Started drinking hot water instead. Milk powder is actually quite heavy when you need enough for a week. You probably think I am a bit mad. Well you should know that I am already. Trying to live a creative life is reason enough to believe me.

If any of my seasoned bushwalking friends wants to come there’s some seats on the flight in. Walking it slowly means stopping for an extra day whenever we feel like it, spending time stopping and taking photographs.

We fly in on the ninth of January 2021. Fingers crossed that the borders stay open and we can get the ferry there from Melbourne.

This little iris looking flower was from the Western Arthur’s from earlier this year. That was the best walk I have ever done. I might have to do it again one day.

Photograph and text copyright © Len Metcalf 2020