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Nine walkers enjoyed excellent weather for our 13 km walk on 14th of May from Girrakool to Staples Lookout.
After a quick car shuffle, at 9am we headed down the scenic west side of Piles Creek as the east side is closed for track maintenance until 17th July. Two kilometres along the track we crossed the suspension bridge, took a few photos and then climbed back uphill to head South on the main route of the Great North Walk.
Crossing the bridge!
Reflections Crossing creeks Reflections
After a steady climb for 1.2km we stopped for a welcome morning tea at 10:45 on a sandstone slab with views across to the M1 and Mooney Mooney Bridge. A little further uphill we had views of the Gosford Rifle Range from the extensive sandstone slabs along the track. Skirting around the west side of Leochares Peak, we soon climbed Scopas Peak to find a small lookout with great views of the wider parts of Mooney Mooney Creek to our South.
Descending the saddle to the south for another kilometre, we met the fire trail that takes you to Wondabyne and Pindar Cave. In many places along our route today we were pleased to see many bright Banksia flowers in full bloom. Following the fire trail for 1.1km we turned off it to head east down the minor track towards Myron Brook for 1.5km descending 140m to the creek. Arriving at 1:10pm, we enjoyed our lunch on the sandstone base of this peaceful creek listening to the myriad of birds that surrounded us.
Hakea gibbosa Banksia spinulosa Styphelia tubifolia Unidentified seed pod
Heading along the wet track skirting the hill between Myron and Kariong Brooks, it was not long before we descended into Kariong Brook for some quick photos. The steep climb with big steps out of the creek took some effort but all accomplished the final big climb of the day. Reaching the fire trail, we quickly tackled the last 2.5km to Staples Lookout for a final group photo with views of Woy Woy below us.
Waterfalls, pools, and cliffs!
Rocky trails Lunch
Retreating to the Mount Penang Gardens for Coffees and cakes, we sat in good company, enjoying the late afternoon sun and views across the ponds before retrieving our cars from Girrakool and heading home.
Thanks to all that attended this very nice Plus walk.
Words: Peter Tuckwell
Walkers: Peter, Jenny C, Celia, Wendy C, Pragati, Guenter, Hazel, Wendy P and her sister Jil
Photos: Wendy C (3,5,6,7,8,9,14)); Peter (1,2,4,10,11,12,13,15).