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On a chilly winter’s morning, thirty five walkers including two visitors, assembled at the Banksia parking area in Strickland Forest. Setting off first on the Stoney Creek track we followed the winding downhill track through the forest for about fifty minutes to arrive at our morning tea spot at the shady Stoney Creek parking area. We then joined the relatively level Arboretum track, the site of the first NSW Government forest nursery (1886-1890) and site of the first national forestry training school (1920-1927). Proceeding through the arboretum a variety of trees could be identified from aging signs such as Hoop Pine, Tallowood, Bunya and Australian Red Cedar.
Following the decision of the leaders to walk the Bellbird Track - yes we heard them calling - in reverse due to previous problems identifying the track entry on the recce, we had to cross the same suspension bridge three times giving rise to the nickname of the three bridges walk by one walker.
It was then time to climb back up to the Banksia parking area via the Ridge to Rainforest Track, with more than fifty percent of the walkers opting to do the extra one kilometre plus, along the circuitous Cabbage Tree Track to return to the parking area and lunch.
Leaders' briefing - it was still chilly!
A view from the heights A long single file Two bods discuss a birdsnest
Lovely light in the forest Morning tea conversations
Walking in the forest One at a time on the bridge!
Waiting for the tail to cross the bridge and catch up The Arboretum. It all happened between 1887 and 1927
Plenty of tall trees! Angophora Tallowood Bluegum
It was just a lovely place to be!
Bert and Kurt were followed by Wendy P, Pete and Bella, Guenter, Deidre, Sue S, Lyn, Don Wa, Don Wo, Chris B, Don B, Sue B, Maurice and Susan, Sue and Michael, Steve and Jan, Helen A, Anne G, Ros and John, Mary, Lyndy, Chris McA, John M, Marilyn, Barbara, Martin, Lilian, David C and 2 visitors.
Words by Bert.
Photos by Susan C (1,17); Sue S (2,5,11,16); Don Wo (4,6,7,10,14,15);Chris McA (3,9);Barbara (8,12,13)