Newport Lake Reserve & Cherry Lake

To help ensure we operate in a safe and inclusive manner we ask all members and guests to abide by the following guidelines
https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Tlklt2nqT-B8RnDaxvmZv8vsGXy3w8rVpiArNf_-f8/edit?usp=sharing
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We have made some changes to this event and will begin with Cherry Lake at sunrise, followed by breakfast and then move on to Newport Reserve for more photography. Given this is a weather dependent event, please check this page the day before the event in the event we need to postpone due to poor weather forecast.

If you are interested in attending only Newport Reserve and breakfast, you can join us at either 9am for breakfast or 10.30am at Newport Reserve. Otherwise we will see you at Cherry Lake at 7.30am.

Join us for a relaxed photography walk at Cherry Lake and Newport Lake Reserve on Saturday 18 July (weather permitting), We will start off with sunrise photography at Cherry Lake, followed by breakfast at a local café (details to be advised). We will then explore
Newport Lake Reserve after breakfast and this reserve offers a variety of photographic opportunities, from tranquil lake reflections and walking trails to abundant birdlife including ducks, swans, cormorants, pelicans and smaller native birds often found throughout the reserve. The surrounding bushland and open water also provide excellent landscape and nature photography opportunities.
Cherry Lake offers a different atmosphere, with wide open wetlands, boardwalks, expansive skies and additional opportunities for bird and landscape photography — particularly suited to those interested in wildlife, reflections and winter light.
Newport Lake Reserve is easily accessible by car or public transport. The nearest train station is Newport Station, approximately a 1.5km walk to the reserve.
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing and your favourite lens for nature and landscape photography.
Looking forward to a great day of photography, conversation and coffee with fellow enthusiasts!

DRAFT SCHEDULE

7:30 AM – Sunrise Photography at Cherry Lake
Meet at Cherry Lake Reserve (Entrance via Fresno Street, Altona) for an introduction and briefing.
We'll begin the day capturing the early morning light at Cherry Lake Reserve. The reserve features a scenic 3.5 km walking circuit which takes visitors around the western and northern sections of the lake. Along the way, photographers can explore a variety of landscapes, including the area's fascinating salt marsh habitats, which support a diverse range of water birds and other wildlife.
Photographic opportunities:
· Sunrise landscapes and reflections
· Water birds and wildlife
· Wetland and salt marsh environments
· Nature and environmental photography
8.50AM - re group at the entrance to drive to breakfast venue
9:00 AM – Breakfast & Social Catch-Up
Location: Pier 71
71 Pier St, Altona
https://www.pier71.com.au/
A chance to relax enjoy breakfast with fellow photographers before heading to our second location.
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10:30 AM – Nature Photography Walk at Newport Lake Reserve.
Meet at Newport Lake Reserve (Entrance via Mason Street, Newport)
Our second session will take place at the picturesque Newport Lake Reserve. The reserve offers several self-guided nature trail loops totalling approximately 2 km, which takes around 40 minutes to complete. The trails wind through dense stands of eucalyptus and acacia trees, providing excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife photography.
The reserve is home to more than 200 plant species and nearly 165 recorded bird species, including Black Swans, wrens, herons, and many other native birds.
Photographic opportunities:
· Bird and wildlife photography
· Native flora and macro photography
· Landscapes and lake reflections
· Environmental and nature photography

12.00PM - Event Ends

What to Bring
· Camera and lenses suitable for landscapes and wildlife
· Fully charged batteries and spare memory cards
· Comfortable walking shoes
· Weather-appropriate clothing
· Water bottle
· Tripod and ND filters (optional, but recommended for sunrise photography)

We look forward to a relaxed day of photography, nature, and good company while exploring two of Melbourne's beautiful western suburbs reserves.

Catherine and Rowan