Clever walks programming resulted in an almost even split of walkers, following the AGM at Orchard Park, Bobbin Head. Twenty four walkers made their way across the cable bridge at the southern extremity of the picnic area, enjoying the picturesque jumble of boulders and waterholes as we followed Cockle Creek which, upstream of the tidal influence, was flowing strongly despite a long period of dry weather. People scattered for morning tea by the Creek with some hardy souls electing to scramble across slippery rocks and pools to snare a perch in the sun among the boulders and log debris.
Despite an early weather alert for damaging winds from the west, we were well up the long, slow climb to the North Turramurra ridge when the first strong wind gusts hit about 11:30 am. We were please to reach the relative shelter of the east-facing slope of The Sphinx where we huddled in a tight-knit group for lunch, retrieving wraps, bags, and belongings as they blew off in the wind.
Rested and refreshed, the pace quickened along the mainly downhill Sphinx and Warrimoo Tracks as we took in the scenic beauty of the upper reaches of Cowan Creek at mid-tide. Having followed different routes, with almost clock-like precision we met up with the Regular walkers at the Empire Marina Café where we enjoyed a well-earned coffee and exchanged tales of our adventures as we again entered the influence of the wild, westerly gale that had blown for most of the day, pleased however, that we had managed to dodge the worst of it.
Just as well it looks a strong bridge at the start of the walk at Cockle Creek
A spur-winged plover makes her feelings known as she guards her chick at Cockle Creek
Two groups of lizards enjoying the sun at morning tea at Cockle Creek
..............meanwhile morning tea on the right bank for a third group
Morning tea reflections on Cockle Creek
Rock hopping up Cockle Creek after morning tea
Three happy ladies stop for a chat at the top of the hill
A rather reflective group lunching at the Sphinx
Epacris on the Sphinx Track
Boronia on the Sphinx Track
Murrua Track Grevillea speciosa
Sunlight on Umbrella Fern (Sticherus flabellatus) 
Cliff overhangs along Cowan Creek
Peaceful beauty looking across Cowan Creek
Above and below -tranquil reflections on Cowan Creek
Ros G and Barbara led twenty two others: Nick, Clive, John B, Chris B, Susan C, Rhondda, Anne G, John G, Mary, Martin, Celia, John M, Claude, Pragati, Kurt, Deidre, Sue S, Lyn, Drina, Jill and two visitors
Pictures by: Barbara (3, 4, 5, 6,10,11,12,18), Drina (8), Susan C (2, 9,15,17) ), Sue S (1,7,13,14,16)
Words: Ros G