Journal Entry 15: The People of Tasmania

Is it possible to be homesick for a place that isn't home? As I sat on a plane returning to San Francisco from the island of Tasmania, I realized that I was experiencing the Frank Sinatra song in reverse. I'd left my heart in this land of magical forests, exotic wildlife and - more importantly - extraordinary people. In all my travels, I have never felt so safe, welcome, comforted and embraced. The Tasmanian people
accepted me without any suspicion, which is not always the case when you have a huge camera hanging around your neck and are trying to insert yourself into people's private moments. The Tasmanians were completely willing to share their lives with a curious guest. I have not encountered such a pure generosity anywhere else in the world, a pureness that is reflected in the dazzling landscape. That is a gift not easily forgotten, a gift that makes a place - however foreign - feel like home.

To view some of my imagery of local Tasmanian's please visit Catherine Hall drop down gallery. Additional images will posted by the beginning of May.