Star Swamp Reserve...

Star Swamp Reserve is a fantastic 96 hectares of virgin bushland. There are several trails that wind through the pristine reserve.

There's also a environmental centre, which unfortunately was closed the day I visited in August. 

It's due to reopen this month.

Although there's 80 bird species found here, I only caught site of a couple of honeyeaters. 

I noticed two bee hives and was fascinated by seeing a caterpillars that were only targeting one particular plant species.  

Further on I came across a tiny skink which was basking in the warmth of the sun.

I could feel the ancient energy of this land immediately my feet touched the ground.

I felt seen.

Humbled and in awe in the presence of these ancient grass trees and eucalyptus trees that surrounded me on all sides.

I can't really explain how I feel in the company of a forest, but it's a sense so profound I am grateful for being intuitive enough to register it.

Finding the grandmother tree in such places can be overwhelming. 

For the grandmother tree is the most powerful one of all. 

Although I caught glimpses of larger trees encircled by the forest virtually swallowed by the foliage, I don't think I caught sight of the grandmother tree.

Perhaps next time I might find her.

I may take another walk here before summer arrives, taking a different route and visiting the environmental centre...