The Way West

See LARGE.

On the 28th May 1813, Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson and William Charles Wentworth stood at this point at Mt York, having become the first European settlers to peer west into the interior of New South Wales - beyond the Blue Mountains. In a few days we will be celebrating the 200th anniversary of that first "crossing".

Right now an actual re-enactment is taking place. A party of men and horses and dogs, corresponding exactly to the make up of that first exhibition, is walking day by day (covering the same ground to the same schedule as that first event) toward this spot. They will be met by the present day Governor of NSW along with a host of other dignitaries and guests. It'll be on the news and all.

Today there was a giant fly over. 70 odd aeroplanes traced the explorers' route to Mt York. As I strolled around, taking pictures of the freshly tarted up heritage site, the official aerobatics team of the Royal Australian Air Force arrived and swooped low (and very noisily) over my head.

Today marks the debut of my new Olympus OMD EM5. I am impressed to say the least. Take it from me. This thing represents the way ahead for serious camera design. More to come in the days to follow.