I headed a few hours south of Perth to tick another spot off my notes-app “places to go” list: the Karri Lake Trail in Quinninup. It’s about 4km and I expected a cruisy hour-and-a-half loop, but (as usual) I got way too excited, scoffed breakfast, and started walking with my tea in hand. The morning was magic—sunlight spilling through towering karri forest, still water, birds everywhere (including black cockatoos), and honestly one of the most beautiful walks I’ve done. I was also being mindful with the drone because there was so much wildlife around the lake. Partway through, the mood shifted. I came across a sign and a huge pile of felled trees that appeared to be illegal clearing of native forest—potentially for someone’s view. It genuinely upset me, because cutting down hundreds-of-years-old trees for a view “gets my goat,” especially when those trees are habitat. After the hike, I rang the Shire of Manjimup and the woman I spoke to immediately knew what I was talking about, but couldn’t confirm details—likely because legal action is underway. The hike is still stunning and I highly recommend it, but it’s also a reminder of the contrast out here: breathtaking nature, and the constant need to protect it.