Anzac Day, Storm at Dawn - oil on board - 70x122cm
On Anzac day 2020, in the middle of the first lockdown, we went over to Home Beach in the dark and lay down to look at the sky. There were meteor showers above and restless spirits circled around us. The world was sighing in frustration and sadness. The waves sang with their gentle hush. Before first light we lit a single candle – to remember our parents and their battles to keep us safe during other dangerous times. It flickered brightly in the sand and seemed to hold. So we rose and walked east towards the glow.
From the top of Cylinder Head we looked back West and there over 1000 metres away we could see our candle still holding against the breath of the ocean. So it is with memory. Some small moments burn and flicker with surprising intensity and last a lifetime . The storm at dawn on Anzac Day 2020 is such a moment for us.
The power of the candle reminded me of the words of many clever thinkers - about one small thing making a difference. One person or even just one gesture.
Several years ago a small group of people started a foundation to help preserve Moreton Bay. Simply called The Moreton Bay Foundation – it is facilitating scientific research and conservation activities within Quandamooka. If you love the Bay and it’s islands please consider supporting their efforts in any number of ways.
Ralph Wilson
May 2022