long reef

One late afternoon we took dinner (take away sushi) up to Long Reef. It's magic up there- a shelf on the edge of the sea. We pretended we weren't in the city. Rain was threatening out at sea but a cool breeze was the only evidence of rough weather - and comfort from a typical muggy Sydney summers day.

Long Reef lends itself to exploring especially with young children. I have taken a number of classes out to the Long Reef rock pools where we've discovered blue-ringed octopuses, anemones, fish, crabs and all sorts of wildlife (including marine plants) living in the rock pools.

Long Reef Aquatic Reserve is a cheap (free) way to explore a marine ecosystem and provides a perfect opportunity to discuss wildlife preservation with little ones.

1. Long Reef Aquatic Reserve
2. North East out to Sea
3,4, 5. A carpet of seaweed
6. Quick getaway
7. North to Collaroy
8. Its beak can hold more than its belly can.