Explorations

An explanation and some explorations.

By Thomas Feng

February 22^nd, 2015

A new project

Before I begin writing about any actual event, allow me to explain why I’ve created “Indisposables” (this).

At the end of 2014, I realised that since 2007 my whole life has been documented quite exclusively on Facebook, in comparison to the plethora of photo albums documenting family trips and events prior.

Photos used to be something precious, a snapshot of time we could reminisce upon. I can’t ever recall attending a gathering prior to the smartphone revolution where people would spend more time taking photos of their food or selfies than actually talking to each other. And remember when people actually used their eyes to watch something? That was a good time.

“Indisposables” is my own exploration of the art of photography and the documentation of life through disposable cameras. Each month I will go through at least one disposable camera (24 photos), capturing little moments here and there. At the end of each month, I will print them all out, blog about my favourites, and keep a personal journal of all the photos - good and bad for the year. By the end of the year I hope to have a greater understanding of what I value, a greater appreciation for my relationships and a greater appreciation for the experiences and moments which shape my life.

These are my first prints.

Lentil as Anything - Abbotsford Convent
2015. Not 1985. — Lentil as Anything - Abbotsford Convent 2015. Not 1985.

An affinity for exploring

Call me a basic bitch but I simply cannot deny my love for brunch. It’s obviously the most important meal of the day because let’s be honest, who actually does anything before 10.30 in the morning?

The love stems from an affinity for exploring. To explore is to seek unknowns in even the most known of places. I love searching for quirky new environments to immerse myself in: a hidden lane-way connecting two parallel streets, the new cafe which just opened down the road, a rural town away from the city; there is a thrill in finding and cherishing those secret little spots which remain unbeknownst to the rest of humanity.

Not only is brunch a great excuse to explore new places, but it’s also a grand place to explore new foods. Breakfast Ramen? Alright. What’s that? Pomegranate with Fried Eggs are your specialty? Yes I will have some. Here’s to you brunch for being fucking amazing.

Vegie Bar - Brunswick St
A view from the left booths - this photo was almost ruined by a member of the public. — Vegie Bar - Brunswick St A view from the left booths - this photo was almost ruined by a member of the public.

Write your story here. (Optional)

The Grub Hole - Moor St
My all-time favourite Fitzroy discovery. — The Grub Hole - Moor St My all-time favourite Fitzroy discovery.

ANGLESEA & Lorne

All aboard the 11am train to Geelong. My friend Laura & I ventured on the V-Line down to Waurn Ponds (which you should get out of A$AP Rocky) to meet our friend Jaynaya whom was spending her summer days being an independent wild child in Anglesea & Lorne.

On our way from Waurn Ponds to Anglesea we stopped at The Farmer’s Place in Freshwater Creek. It’s a cafe in the middle of a farm which grows its own food sustainably and uses it to cook simple but scrumptious food. We could see the produce being grown in vegie patch boxes whilst we sipped on ginger beers on the deck out in the sun. Laura treated herself to a toasted sandwich which were sold in three varieties: “Cheese”, “Ham & Cheese”, “Ham, Cheese & Tomato”. How overwhelming.

Off we drove to the seaside at Point Addis Marine National Park (below on the right) afterwards where we watched surfers from the lookout, were sprayed with water despite being at least 20 metres on the cliffs above, and took in a picturesque view of the cliffs, beaches and waves for days. A venture down the gravel path towards the beach proved a windy affair as well as painful for those unaccustomed to the joys gravel brings to bare feet.

Some respite was sought in Anglesea in the form of chips and gravy and window shopping at the numerous beach-side boutiques. Once sufficiently satisfied we wandered to Lorne, parking right by the calm waters of the Erskine river. We walked past families teaching their children to skate which inspired Jaynaya to whip out the skateboard to roll alongside the river until we were beach side. Ignoring the incoming tide which would cut our path rejoining the mainland, we wandered adjacent to the overhanging cliff faces; with water rushing over our feet which made Laura and I regret our life choices of wearing pants; only to be taken aback by a beautiful red, black and gold mosaic created simply by fallen rock and water.