Tasmania’s South Arm Peninsula gave us a day to remember – relaxed, creative, and full of little surprises. Sue and Robert, now long-time friends as much as returning guests, joined me once again for a day of gentle photography and moments of wonder in nature.

Our day began in Hobart with a short drive to our first pause of the day at Lauderdale Beach. Stepping onto the sand, we observed as the waves of the incoming tide rolled in to meet the skeletal remains of a jetty that once was.

Sue and Robert are as fond of coffee as I am, so we found a local café to enjoy a tasty brew before collecting our picnic supplies for later in the day.

Recharged and ready, we set off again for a short drive to Cape Deslacs Nature Reserve where we wandered along a sandy trail onto the long stretch of Clifton Beach. With its pristine shoreline and sweeping views across Storm Bay to the Tasman Sea, it was a scene that reminded us to simply pause and take it all in.

Retracing our steps back to the car, we then travelled around to the western end of Clifton Beach where the rocky escarpment offered another perspective to photograph. Sue took the opportunity to experiment with different angles, frames, compositions, camera settings and techniques, including slower shutter speeds (hence the tripod).

We lingered here for a while as I shared some guidance with Sue, and Robert snapped a photo of the two of us at work (a favourite keepsake from the day!).

Potters Hill was our next pause – and what a place to pause it was. First, a steady walk up the hillside brought us to views that were truly extraordinary: 360 degrees of ocean, coastline and sky. At the top of Potters Hill lies a labyrinth – a creation of stones laid out in a single winding path that leads inward before spiralling gently back out again. Unlike a maze, which is designed to confuse with choices and dead ends, a labyrinth has only one way forward. Walking its path is a meditative experience: a chance to slow down, focus on each step, and reflect as you follow the gentle turns. Surrounded by expansive views and gnarly old trees that seem to hold stories of their own, it was the perfect setting – for reflection, with or without a camera in hand.

Then, just as we were soaking in the calm, a storm swept through. Rain came fast and heavy, sending us to the shelter of the trees. But nature had a gift waiting. As the rain eased, a brilliant rainbow arched across the sky, end to end – a breathtaking reminder of nature’s wonder.

We then made our way to Goat Bluff Lookout when blue skies and sunshine returned. Finding a spot to sit quietly, we unwrapped our picnic overlooking Betsey Island and Blackjack Rock. Cameras clicked again between bites of sandwiches, sweet treats and another coffee – the perfect blend of stunning scenery, nourishing food, friendship, conversation and photography.

Heading back toward Hobart, we wandered along Cremorne Beach to where the wreck of the SS Nubeena came to rest in 1910. Nowadays only the boiler remains as a prominent landmark that is partially visible as waves roll over it with the tide.

Our last stop for the day was Mortimer Bay. In the softening afternoon light, we meandered quietly along Gorringes Beach, letting the day slow to its natural close.

It was, as always with Sue and Robert, a day to savour. Gentle moments, creative photographs, and the joy of shared company. Our time together never feels rushed, and each year when they return, it’s like picking up with old friends. This South Arm adventure will be one we’ll all remember fondly – downpour and rainbow included.

Finishing back in Hobart, we bid farewell for another year... until Sue and Robert return for another dose of Tassie goodness and photo opportunities.