The Early Bird for WSJ

Sometimes I’m free to interpret a story and subject as I see fit, but more often than not, I work to a strict creative brief, layout and turnaround time. Nurturing great relationships with editors is all-important. All those I work with know I am someone they can count on to produce a great photo without fail and reinforce the publication’s editorial values, no matter what I’m up against. A recent assignment for the Wall Street Journal started as a 7.30 pm brief from Hong Kong. They needed a Syndey photographer to take a ferry trip up the Hawkesbury River at 6.00 am the following morning. Obviously, being flexible is what counts when it comes to meeting strict editorial deadlines.

I was asked to shoot a photo story to support an article on Australia’s only remaining postal ferry that delivers the mail to remote locations on the Hawkesbury River in NSW. Amazingly, this is just one hour north of Sydney. It was a great trip, and I met with some terrific characters along the way.

Click here to read the Wall Street Journal article and photo story.

A Mail-Boat Trip Up the Hawkesbury River: A Journey Through History and Nature

The Hawkesbury River, located in New South Wales, Australia, is a captivating waterway rich in history and natural beauty. A mail-boat trip up the river offers a unique experience, combining stunning landscapes, an insight into the region’s past, and the essential service of delivering mail to the remote communities along the riverbanks. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey up the Hawkesbury River, exploring its fascinating history, picturesque scenery, and the unforgettable experience of a mail-boat trip.

History of the Hawkesbury River

The Hawkesbury River, named after Charles Jenkinson, the first Earl of Liverpool and Baron Hawkesbury, has a storied history that dates back thousands of years. The river was home to the Indigenous Australian peoples, the Darug, Darkinjung, and Eora nations, long before European settlers arrived. These indigenous communities relied on the river for food, transportation, and cultural practices.

The arrival of European settlers in the late 18th century brought significant changes to the region. The fertile lands along the riverbanks became the site of early agricultural endeavors, and the Hawkesbury River played a crucial role in the development of the surrounding settlements.

The Mail-Boat Trip Experience

Today, the mail-boat trip up the Hawkesbury River provides a fascinating and leisurely journey through this historic waterway. The trip typically begins at Brooklyn, a small town on the southern bank of the river, and makes its way upstream, delivering mail to the remote communities that are inaccessible by road.

Aboard the mail-boat, passengers can enjoy the stunning views of the river as it meanders through lush forests, towering sandstone cliffs, and quaint riverside villages. The boat stops at various locations along the way, giving passengers a glimpse into the lives of the locals who depend on the river for their livelihoods and daily necessities.

As the boat navigates the river, the crew shares stories and anecdotes about the history and culture of the area, offering insight into the lives of the Indigenous peoples, the European settlers, and the communities that continue to rely on the river today.

Points of Interest

Along the mail-boat trip, passengers will have the opportunity to witness several points of interest, including:

1. Dangar Island: A small island community with a rich history dating back to the early days of European settlement. The island is home to around 300 residents, and the mail-boat service is a vital link for the community.
2. Bar Island: An island steeped in indigenous history, with evidence of Aboriginal occupation in the form of rock engravings and middens. The island also features the remnants of a historic church and cemetery.
3. Milson Island: A picturesque island that has served various purposes over the years, including a quarantine station, a prison farm, and a hospital. Today, it is home to a sports and recreation center.
4. Wisemans Ferry: A historic crossing point on the river, established in 1827 by Solomon Wiseman, an ex-convict who became a prosperous businessman. The area offers beautiful scenery and a glimpse into the early days of European settlement.

A mail-boat trip up the Hawkesbury River offers a unique and memorable experience, combining the region’s captivating history, stunning natural beauty, and the enduring tradition of mail delivery by boat. For those seeking a leisurely and informative journey through one of Australia’s most fascinating waterways, a trip aboard the Hawkesbury River mail-boat is an experience not to be missed.