In the Early Morning Light

Description

From storms to the quiet prelude of the morning. This painting was done in late October after the strict Victorian lockdown ended. We were able to journey more than 5km from home we visited the R J Hamer Arboretum at Olinda in the Dandenong Ranges. The R.J. Hamer Arboretum land is a small part of the original Dandenong and Woori Yallock State forest, proclaimed over 110 years ago. Over the years, a succession of fires destroyed the original and replanted eucalypt forest. In its place an exotic forest Arboretum to be used as part of a firebreak for the Olinda township. The flowering beauty of so many species in the R.J. Hamer Arboretum is worthy of many international arboreta, and it creates a kaleidoscope of colours at any time of the year. A rich array of autumn colours provides spectacular views, from the fiery red, oranges and crimsons of the liquid ambers and maples, to the subtle paling of the deciduous conifers. In winter, the tranquil resting of the deciduous trees contrasts with the early flowering species of rhododendrons and azaleas among a mystic lake of low hanging clouds.

The majestic gums and oaks and the ornamental willows and birches are at their best in the summer. A rich array of autumn colours provides spectacular views, from the fiery red, oranges and crimsons of the liquid ambers and maples, to the subtle paling of the deciduous conifers. In winter, the tranquil resting of the deciduous trees contrasting with the early flowering species among a mystic lake of low hanging clouds, offers viewing delight.