Tonight, the 20th of July, we embark on a four-minute drone flight from the Bastion Point car park, capturing the magic of a king tide evening. As the drone ascends, we leave behind the car park and glide out to sea, greeted by the gentle hues of twilight.
From above, the king tide reveals a dual mouth at the Mallacoota inlet, a rare sight made even more enchanting by the high tide. The drone circles around, offering a stunning panorama of the wide opening, where a small sandbar emerges in the centre, like a natural dividing line.
Flying towards the sandbar, we gaze into the heart of the sunset. The overcast skies are a canvas of greys, yet the setting sun paints the horizon with soft red tones, creating a serene and surreal atmosphere. The calm waters reflect the muted colours, adding to the tranquility of the scene.
With no wind to disturb the peace, the small surf rolls in from the east, a gentle reminder of the ocean's ever-present rhythm. This serene drone journey captures the unique beauty of Mallacoota's coastal landscape, a perfect blend of nature's elements on a peaceful king tide evening.
Turning around, the drone heads back from the mouth, now facing north towards the majestic Howe Ranges. Below, the slender spit of sand separating Mallacoota Lake from the vast Pacific Ocean stretches out expansively. In the distance, Gabo Island and its lighthouse come into view, the lighthouse's flash piercing the growing twilight as night falls.
As we spin towards the south, the Bastion Point boat ramp appears, lights shimmering at the water’s edge. At high tide, the water laps up to the very top of the boat ramp, an unusual and intriguing sight. We approach the boat ramp, where headlights from moving cars add a dynamic element to the darkening scene. The sun has now dipped below the horizon, casting the landscape into deepening shadows.
The drone finally returns to the car park and gently lands. Despite the encroaching darkness, the view remains stunning, with the beautiful ocean completing this twilight journey over Mallacoota.
On high tide’s breath, we drift away,
From Bastion Point where shadows play.
The sea’s calm kiss, the evening grey,
In twilight’s glow, we softly sway.
A sandbar rests in water’s hold,
The dual mouth’s story gently told.
With sunset’s brush, the skies unfold,
In overcast hues, so calm, so bold.
No wind to stir the tranquil air,
Just eastern waves that softly bear.
Mallacoota’s charm, beyond compare,
In king tide’s grace, we find our share.
Gabo’s light in twilight gleams,
Howe Ranges watch o’er lakes and streams.
Bastion’s lights in darkening beams,
A perfect end to day’s last dreams.