Definition: a mystery tour is a short journey that people make for pleasure without knowing where they are going
Akari, my 2008 Mazda 3, specialises in magical mystery tours that feed the soul and the creative spirit. Akari knows all about duende, that raw, tempestuous creative energy that flamenco guitarists, gypsies and dancers are familiar with. Her inclusive tours take in all aspects of Central Victoria including: geology, the environment, culture, flora, fauna and history.
A mystery tour is all about anticipation! Those who come on one of Akari’s tours, especially visitors from other countries, are always surprised when Akari takes them to some out of the way place that reveals a different perspective of Australia. They are always inspired !
Today, with the smell of spring in the air, my dogs and I went out on an artistic date with Akari.
In Art Heals: How Creativity Heals The Soul, Shane McNiff says that ‘photography can help us become more aware of our environments. When we walk with a camera searching for images… this process helps us look more closely and deeply at our surroundings.” There is no doubt that the camera has the capacity to hold moments of our perception and help us to see the possibilities for perceptual awareness.
I took the time to receive the benefits of aesthetic contemplation and to look attentively. My perceptions were not all captured by the iPhone! Moliagul is almost a ghost town now yet it proudly boasts being the site where the Welcome Stranger Gold Nugget, found here by John Deason, changed Australian History. Moliagul also has an amazing monument to John Flynn who pioneered the Australian Inland Mission Aerial Medical Service in Cloncurry, Queensland (later to be renamed the Royal Flying Doctor Service). At one time he was the headmaster at the small iconic school I stopped to photograph.
This meditation brings a new energy and creativity into my life. The fruits of Waiting For Godot over the past three months are beginning to ripen. There are so many things I can do with the images I collected on this ‘tour’ with Akari! I look forward to a rich harvest.
Mcniff, S 2004, Art Heals: How Creativity Cures The Soul, Shambala, Boston
While Waiting For Godot 
Very cool
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It’s true about the Akari Tours. I’ve been privileged enough to have been taken on one of Heather and Akari’s tours. It was great.
I would like to make a comment about the photography too. When my relationship went to the dogs I used to take long walks and eventually I started taking my camera. I started to look at the “ordinary” things more closely and to take photographs. It was incredibly rewarding and it did push me outside of my self and my misery. When I look back over those photographs they still have the power to give pleasure.
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That was a fun day Kim! I have very fond memories of going out back of beyond with you :-). And yes! Walking and taking note of things that we often miss is healing.
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