In 2005 as part of a book project I had the opportunity to explore and photograph many of Bendigo’s historic properties. Early one morning I drove up to Bendigo to photograph sunrise over the inner city from the roof of the Hotel Shamrock, a grand 19th century building that is very much a part of region’s gold rush history.

To get to the small square section of roof where the flagpole stands I had to pass through the vacant fifth floor which had an eerie vibe. Heading back down after sunrise I noticed a series of doorways, the dark and the light, the cracked and peeling grubby walls, the colors, and the word ESCAPE with an arrow pointing down.

Apart from being a fun visual puzzle to enjoy, the scene reminded me of my own life and life generally. It’s not the type of image I’d usually take but one I still enjoy looking at.