I have walked the paths of Granite Island (South Australia) many times before. A recent visit for my Mother’s family reunion brought me back here again. On this day the wind swept strongly off the Southern Ocean. It’s deafening, chilly wind is a regular event on this Island. Something the little local Fairy Penguins, hidden safely away in rock crevasses, would be very familiar with. On a hot Summers day this wind can be refreshing. In the middle of Winter it is truly bone chilling; a thick jacket, beanie and scarf is a must.

There is something about returning to a destination that you haven’t seen in many years. Despite visiting so many times in my childhood, seeing it with fresh eyes brought with it a new appreciation. The waves smashing against the base of the cliffs were powerfully mesmerizing. I was fascinated by the geometric-like cracks in the granite and the orange colours of the lichen. Despite being in such a harsh environment, the granite cliffs continue to stand firmly year after year. To me these highly weathered, but incredibly grand cliffs, are a symbol of resilience. The harshness hasn’t resulted in them losing their beauty, if anything it has revealed it. They stand as a reminder that beauty can come forth from even the most difficult moments of life; to not give up, to keep hoping.