Kookaburras have always been part of my world. Growing up, they were everywhere. Even now, when we're bushwalking they'll often follow us along, moving from tree to tree as though they're keeping an eye on things. I've come to think of them as the neighbourhood watch of the bush.

But they mean something more to me now. After Dad died in 2024, a kookaburra appeared at a moment when I needed it, and I took it as a sign he was still around. Since then, birds seem to turn up at just the right time. I don't question it anymore.

Kev feels like an old friend checking in, keeping watch — just to make sure everything's okay.

Acrylic and oil on canvas · 20 × 25 cm (8 × 10") · Original

Painted from a reference photograph from Shutterstock.