After the heat and blazing sun last week, the cool overcast conditions this week made a welcome change, marred only by high humidity. However, the rain stayed away, the leeches were few and the conversation flowed readily.
The four walkers
From Gordon Station, a short street walk took us to the tall timbers of the Blackbutt Reserve. More street walking lead to Lane Cove National Park where we joined the Great North walk and followed it the rest of the day.
Tall timbers 
Under De Burgh's Bridge 
Graffitti on the bridge
The track varied from wide, level fire trail to washed out, rocky, narrow paths, keeping us on our toes.
Good conditions.... 
......not so good conditions
Rock carving 
Brown's Waterhole
We passed through lovely bush with many fine examples of Xanthorrhoeas, Angophoras and gum trees. A few wildflowers were spied.
Native violets in Blackbutt Reserve 
Persoonia levis in Lane Cove NP
Acacia linifola in abundance 
Banana palms - a surprise in the middle of the river!
Where the Lane Cove River narrowed to a creek, there was still enough water to keep everything green and the sound of trickling water was often heard. Items of interest included a pair of cockatoos seemingly setting up home and a fine specimen of a toadstool.
A glimpse of Lane Cove River 
Sulfur crested cockatoos 
Toadstool
Crossing Lane Cove River
A short detour to City View Lookout was worthwhile as it proved to be an excellent lunch spot with cooling breezes very welcome after the climb through Conscript Pass.
I spy with my little eye... 
The Big Smoke?
Coffee at the Monday Morning Coffee shop was good even on a Friday, and their iced chocolate was commendable.
Map of the route
Walkers: Wendy C, Rick, Hazel and Pragati.
Photos: Wendy C 2,3,5,9,10,11,14,15,17; Rick 7,13,18,19; Hazel 1,4,6,8,12,16