Sunday 14 July 2019

Going up

The tors

View of Wallaga Lake to the east

Looks pretty interesting

Photos by Tom

An early morning meeting at Moruya River was followed by a 60 km drive to Tilba where we disembarked and commenced our uphill trek to Gulaga (Mt Dromedary).  9 walkers started under the guidance of our leader but one walker exercised responsible behaviour and decided to return early as they assessed the walk may be too difficult.   This reinforces walkers’ need to exercise sensible judgement when undertaking walks and be mindful of their capabilities, as issues experienced later in walks can lead to unnecessary problems.

The recently graded track was in good condition and provided scenic viewing of the Bermagui coastline.  Alluvial gold was first discovered in this area in 1852 with mining continuing until around 1920.   A number of marker plaques along the track, installed by the ANU Geology Department, described the geology of the area.  While not much wildlife was spotted we did come across one Lyrebird, overseen by a Wallaby, foraging on the track.

Upon reaching the saddle, a rest area with toilet and picnic table, we diverted to the Tors, rather than ascend the summit of Gulaga.  This area is significant to the traditional Aboriginal people, the Yuin and reportedly a ‘secret women’s place’. It proved very interesting with unique rock formations and, due to the extremely clear weather, views all the way to Pigeon House mountain.  These Tors are the remains of the hardest granite left behind after this volcano eroded over millions of years ago.

Lunch in the sun, followed by a quick descent, ended a very pleasant Sunday walk.

Tom