Saturday 26 November 2016
Photos by Ruth and Karen M
13 Batemans Bay Bushwalkers enjoyed a 9 km stroll along the coast between Barlings Beach and Guerilla Bay on the weekend. The weather was mild with a cool breeze which was fortunate as the track is relatively hilly.
The walk initially passes through land owned by a private bush retreat, and we had previously gained their permission for access. This bushland is dominated by large Bangalay gum trees (Eucalyptus botryoides) with reddish bark and dense green canopy. Due to their location near the coast, many spread huge branches close to the ground. We spotted an echidna trying to hide from our curious gazes and a large goanna who thought he was sufficiently camouflaged by stretching out on a fallen log.
We passed through a deserted sandy cove known as Frank’s Beach accessible only by foot, where we paused for a refreshment break. The track then took us high on the headlands to Burrewarra Point with continuous views back towards Broulee Island and further south. The track around the Point goes through great stands of Old Man Banksia (Banksia serrata) and we checked out the working lighthouse and WWII radar bunker along the way.
Lunch was on Guerilla Bay Beach among some of the oldest rock formations on the east coast, enjoying the view north to Jimmies Island and beyond.
Karen M