After the surge

From this angle and distance it looks small.

This day it is the only familiar thing on this strand of beach which was ravaged by a recent storm surge. The gray sky and the muted January light of early afternoon add drama to the scene. A walk on the beach was not possible.

I have never been to this beach in winter. My husband and I usually visit spring to autumn.

However, the January thaw invited me outdoors after what has felt like months avoiding the bitter cold. It was good to be there in spite of my inability to walk along the strand.

An ice wall lines the shoreline now and salt water is trapped inside that wall. 

The combination of the water/ice and the pieces of ice from the bay thrown ashore by the storm, make walking treacherous. I wouldn’t walk on the Marram grass further in shore as it destroys the grass which helps prevent erosion.

This inlet is usually busy with fishing boats making their way to the fish plant and back to port. 

Boats are all ashore now as the bays, inlets and harbours are frozen. 

I will be eager to see the condition of the beach after the remainder of the winter. Meanwhile, the old lighthouse stands her ground, nestled behind the sand dunes. It is a comfort to see her in pristine condition, standing guard as usual.