Thursday 21 September 2017
Photos by Shirley, Carol & Denise
The promise of seeing Rock Orchids blooming in the wild enticed 21 Batemans Bay Bushwalkers to embark on an 11 km hike, starting 3 km west of Misons Road south of Mogo.
The lack of rainfall over the past few months made tracks very dusty and the bush lacked the usual profusion of Spring wild flowers. Our walk leader, Betty led us westward, up steeper and steeper inclines with granite boulders and interesting rocky formations that, at times helped to divert our attention from the physical exertion of our climb. As the track curved south we stopped for morning tea and noticed that the rock orchids at that site had been eaten by wildlife seeking moisture and nutrition. Bird song was ever present on our hike and the calls of Noisy Friarbirds, Golden Whistlers and Pardalote were identified.
Upon reaching the top of the crest our group was rewarded by the sight of Rock Orchids blooming atop of a granite prominence. Many cameras came out of backpacks to capture the sight.
The return journey was mostly down hill and an understorey of Burrawangs gave the bush a lusher appearance.
Thank you Betty, for an enjoyable walk.
Denise