'On a magnificent winter’s day 28 walkers braved the morning chill to embark on the first walk after the Covid restrictions.
There was much to talk about. The walkers were divided into two groups and the plan was for the first group to go ahead,
and free up the tea and lunch spots for the second group.'
Chatting in small groups as the walkers assemble... then Leader Drina commands attention, seconded by Nick B. The goose lurks.
Not much interest from nearby birds. Until Drina begins to talk. The goose bottom right had a lot to say. Drina prevailed.
'Group 1 (led by Drina) headed up the Nature Trail Path and, after the long break from weekly walks, found that more breathing breaks
than usual were necessary.
Along the path we enjoyed the many rocky outcrops, trees and winter flowers. The view of the dam from the high spot was beautiful.'
'When we got to the Wildflower turnoff, we were surprised by being hailed by Group 2 (led by Nick) from below, on the road. They had decided to take the ‘low road’.
Luckily there were plenty of picnic areas available so the two groups were able to sit separately for morning tea.'
'After morning tea, Group 2 took the lead on the Circuit Path around the dam.'
On the left: Grasstree Xanthorrhoea
and above: Native Iris Patersonia sericea and Orange Fungus.
'The path crossed several footbridges and was surprisingly wet in many areas. The creek featured many interesting rocky platforms with water cascading across them.
The main waterfall tempted photographers but the sun was not in a favourable position.'
'Group 2 chose the creek crossing as a lunch spot and Group 1 went ahead till we found some convenient poles erected as barriers on the side of the road to sit on.'
'The walk proceeded along the road, which we shared with bikes, for a way before turning back onto a dedicated walking track. On this section there has been a lot of erosion of the paths and, combined with the wet clayey soil, made for slower walking.'
Ferns beside the water. A Darter drying its wings
'Unfortunately, the boardwalk section along the water’s edge is under repair so it was necessary to take a detour up near the residential area before turning onto a path back down to cross the dam wall. Group 2 again chose a different route. Nick said something about looking for mermaids?' [The mermaids date back to the last depression in 1930's when there was a camp nearby for people who had no permanent homes.]
The weather was perfect for walking and everyone seemed to enjoy this first outing. People split up for the afternoon coffee as most cafes cater for a maximum of ten people and many are closing early during this period.'
For the record:
Group 1: Leader: Drina, Tail end charlies: Sue and Michael, Female first aid: Anne G, Male first aid: Claude.
Group 2: Leader: Nick B, Tail end charlie : Helen A, First aid: Sue K.
Walkers: Helen A, Nick B, Sue B, David C, Rhonda, Elaine, Michael and Sue, Anne G, Ros, Sue K, Lilian, Helen L, Bill McD, Claude and Margaret, Bella and Pete, Barbara R, David R, Guenter, Anne R, Dennis, Bill T, Drina, Don Wa, Don Wo and visitor Darrell.
Words: Drina
Photos: Pete(1,3-5,11,16,19), Ros(2), Don Wo (6), Helen A(7,12), Drina(8,9,13-15,17,18,20), Lilian(10).