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Haiku Project

Discover the 32 Haiku decorating the streetlights in the village.

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Walk the Haiku Trail

Wander the streets, looking for the colourful painted units under the light poles. These whimsical poems often interplay with location or natural surroundings.

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Haiku

Originating in Japan, haiku is an unrhymed form of poetry arranged in three lines of no more than 17 syllables. The form expresses much and suggests more in the fewest possible words, inviting the reader to share in a unique and sometimes intimate moment observed or felt by the writer.

Haiku encourage us to slow down and observe, to see in a deeper sense. To immerse ourselves in our surroundings, not only in the broad landscapes and minutest details of nature, but in the giving and receiving of shared moments which help build community.

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The Poet

Local resident and writer Di Adams set herself the challenge of writing one haiku per day for two years, the second year of which became an online Haiku Diary. The haiku featured on the streetlights are a small selection from that time, as well as others created specifically to reflect the location of the streetlight within the village. To read more visit Di's blogspot.​​​​

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The Streetlights

​On the cutting edge of hydro-electricity in the 1950’s this community was the first in Australia to receive its household power via underground cables instead of overhead lines.  The hub for these cables is found at the bottom of the light poles which also provide the canvas for each haiku. Sharnee Torrents’ artistic flair gave each one their finishing touch.

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While You’re Here…

When you’ve finished the Haiku Trail here are some other things you can try in Poatina:

  • Visit the Poatina Tree Art Gallery (Fri - Sun) to see a range of glass, and other art created here in Poatina and around Australia.

  • Enjoy Poatina’s Tiers Tea Lounge (Fri - Sun) for a cuppa or a bite to eat.

  • Visit the General Store, Gift Shop and Op Shop offering groceries, local and unique gifts, cards, books, souvenirs, pre-loved clothing and other items.

  • Enjoy Poatina’s Labyrinth – for those seeking some peace. 

  • Walk one of the short Reflection Trails that take you outside the village to reflect and admire the views.  Available from the General Store.

  • Take one of the bush walks in the vicinity. Maps available at the General Store.

  • Poatina Golf Course – a scenic 9 hole/18 tee course, visitors welcome. Green fees payable at the club.

  • Arts Residencies across various disciplines are welcome - link

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