Phillip Island

Phillip Island – A Tapestry of Nature, Heritage, and Adventure

A beloved day trip from Melbourne, Phillip Island comes to life in this detailed canvas that weaves together its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. At the heart of the painting is the island’s most iconic spectacle—the Penguin Parade—home to the world’s largest colony of Little Penguins, some 40,000 strong. For the first time in a painting of this scale, I’ve included not just one, but two bird species: the charming penguins alongside the stately Cape Barren Geese that also thrive on the island.

The composition journeys across the island’s dramatic coastline and secluded beaches, where Australian fur seals bask at Seal Rocks, best viewed from the rugged outcrop of The Nobbies. Adding depth to the narrative is a nod to the island’s recreational culture: a depiction of the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit captures its significance as a motorsport hub hosting global events like MotoGP and the Superbike World Championships.

Phillip Island’s layered history finds expression in elements such as the heritage-listed Churchill Island Farm, rustic chicory kilns that speak to a bygone era, and a sailboat gliding along the Bass Coast—symbolizing the region’s maritime soul. Look closely and you’ll spot the Pinnacles Lookout, a dramatic geological feature that captures the island’s raw beauty.