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On Friday, March 3, eleven walkers met novice leaders – Elizabeth and Keith - at Waverton Station to explore the Coal Loader and Ball’s Head.
Having done a head count and assigned members to specific jobs, the group set off. Luckily for the novice leaders, there were at least six walkers who had already led walks in the past (and, who were happy to give assistance and suggestions!).
The group had time to view the indigenous carvings and to read many of the interesting and informative boards giving the past history of the Coal Loader. In addition to these, many enjoyed the growing pods with a huge variety of vegetables, herbs and flowers run on an interesting aquaculture system. A great place for morning tea.
Some of us on the boardwalk across rock face with carvings Admin building amongst the greenery
Luckily for us, we were able to draw on walkers like Robyn Mickan and Rosie Howell to embellish the history of Ball’s Head and the Coal Loader in particular. Each was able to comment on her childhood spent in the surrounding area.
Mobile vegepods on the main level .................... ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and on the old loading platform
Coal loader platform - note the chutes now closed by grates. Morning tea beneath the glass solar cells
Choir singing for a handout Individual proposition Success!
Tunnel entrances Remains of the loading wharf
Having passed through the wet tunnel where coal was loaded into skips in the past, the walkers then ventured along the path around Ball’s Head which was closest to the seashore finally heading back to Waverton Station.
Walking around Balls Head Pause for a photo op
P&O cruise ship hiding behind the houses
Sydney hiding behind Goat Island
Lunch back at the Coal Loader, with rain anticipated
Everyone enjoyed themselves particularly as the little drops of rain experienced throughout the day became a huge deluge when we got to the coffee shop. AND the novice leaders ended the day still smiling!! (All the walkers, too! Ed.)
Leaders – Elizabeth Pike and Keith Hughes
Walkers – Sue B, Judy G, Rosie, Robyn Ma, John M, Anne R, Dennis S, Rosemary W, Robyn Mi, Fran, Don Wo.
Words - Elizabeth
Photos - Anne R (Magpie chorus), Don Wo