Wednesday 15 August 2018

Lesley, Leader Carol, Elaine, Bob and Bev.

Donna on the track to the beach.

Donna, Lesley, Elaine and Bob climb steps from the beach.

Rock garden on the track.

Donna hugs a tree.

Photos by Carol and Donna

As we gathered at the meeting place, the forecast westerly winds were blowing strongly.   With some doubt about the safety aspect, we discussed alternatives, but decided to proceed, prepared for possible problems.

However, on arrival at our start point, we found conditions to be acceptable, and relaxed by counting the many kangaroos & wallabies lounging around the village. They were untroubled as we set off, walking past & through mobs that were relaxing in the sun. A pair of rare hooded plovers were foraging at the edge of the estuary, and also a pair of pied oyster catchers, further on, but not another human was to be seen on the long stretch of unmarked beach on the way to Point Upright.

Instead of our usual route around the rock platform, we climbed the track to the lookout, and found a new platform had been built, with fencing, to keep people away from the dangerous edge of the cliff.   The sea was flat, due to the westerly wind, but no whales were to be seen. After walking along the top of this prominent headland, we descended into Depot Beach, and found more kangaroos lounging on the grassy flats above the beach.  Before settling into lunch, we explored the groves of ancient rainforest on the slopes of the escarpment, protected & nourished by the slopes above.

Lunch overlooking this beautiful cove was a millionaire’s view, but we could see much smoke further up the coast, which we learned later was a major fire near Burrill Lake. Apart from that ominous sight, the walk was very enjoyable, and we returned to the cars satisfied with the excursion.

Bob