Ivor Rowe is probably the most naturally formed of all the ocean pools that dot the coastline of eastern Sydney. Technically a giant rock pool, Ivor Rowe could be called a "bogey hole" rather than an ocean bath. The term "bogey hole" is derived from local Indigenous language meaning "a place to swim or bathe".

The pool sits at the edge of a large rock shelf that protrudes from the base of the sandstone cliffs above it, and measures no more than a few metres in diameter and a little over a metre deep. The weathered timber posts that surround the eastern edge of the pool serve memory to a time of more frequented human use. I must admit, I have only seen locals rinsing their dogs here in recent years.

The rock shelf contains not only the pool itself, but also thousands of smaller rock pools that are home to a multitude of plant and animal life. I have visited Ivor Rowe pool many times over the past five years and have witnessed and photographed some spectacular sunrises from this location. I never tire of its complex simplicity, its abundance of texture and form, and the solitude afforded me as the chaos of city life buzzes on the sandstone cliffs above.

ivor rowe rockpool is AVAILABLE IN THE PRINT LAB

These photographic prints of Ivor Rowe Rockpool are now available through the
Print Lab in a range of sizes and finishes. Click on an image to get your own little piece of solitude today.