We set off into the Wyrrabalong NP by ascending the Red Gum Trail to a lookout providing views down to Tuggerah Lake, where we stopped for morning tea. Red Gums and Angophra were the order of the day followed by Cabbage Tree Palms and Lillypillys as we traversed the Lillypilly trail and headed via the Link and Burrawang tracks down to Pelican Beach for lunch. Hunger pangs relieved, we then walked up the beach sighting some interesting creatures en route including a sea snake. Further investigation by Pete after the walk revealed that this was quite probably a venemous yellow bellied sea snake several of which have been found washed up on beaches of the NSW South Coast after the recent storms. They are more prevelant in tropical waters. We then arrived at Soldiers Beach and after traversing, climbed up the steps and headed for our much anticipated coffee.
Pausing for a break on the Red Gum Trail
Where have we got to now, leaders?
Fungae in all colours, shapes and sizes were the order of the day
Rain Forest Fruit and Old Man Banksia
Acacia and Climbing Guinea Flower -Hibertia scandens(right)
On through the forest on the Lillypilly Trail
and down past coastal Banksia on the track to Pelican Beach
At lunch on Pelican Beach
A red capped plover on Pelican Beach
Striding out along Pelican Beach
A stranded sea snake was a source of great interest to the group.(refer report)
Ready to climb up the steps off Soldiers Beach and on to coffee.
"Birthday Boy" Don Wo, one of our "star" octogenarian walkers, relaxes at the coffee shop
Walkers: Chris B and Vreni led sixteen others, Nick, Elaine, Mary, Dawn, Bert, Steve, Pragati, Pete and Bella, Barbara, Anne R, Kurt, Sue S, Lyn, Don Wo and a visitor.
Photos: Anne (11,15,17, 20), Barbara (1, 3, 4), Don Wo (9), Pete (2, 5, 13, 14, 16, 18), Sue S (6, 7, 8, 10, 12), Visitor (19)