A rather large group of 24 people met up to walk in perfect Spring weather. Fortunately for us, low tide was at 9:30am so we followed the track close to harbourside and did not need to take the high tide street diversions.
 
2024 10 25 Reg BarbaraR 1 309 foreshore at clontarfWalk along the foreshore at Clontarf on low tide2024 10 25 Reg Pauline 1 water dragonA water dragon unfazed by the walkers
 
The many steep steps along the way gave our legs, hearts and lungs a great workout. We paused often for a breather and drink break. 
 
Before we knew it we'd reached our morning tea stop at Clontarf Reserve. The many shady trees, picnic benches (and toilets) create a very pleasant way point along the track.
 
2024 10 25 Reg BarbaraR 2 310 crystal clear coveA crystal clear cove on the walk to Dobroyd Point
 
The next section of the walk took us up and over Dobroyd Head. Walkers were delighted by the many wildflowers and spectacular harbour views. The Grotto Point Aboriginal Rock Engravings were of interest, particularly for those new to this track.  
 
2024 10 25 Reg Deidre 1 views towards the headsBlueberry ash in flower2024 10 25 Reg Pauline 2 aboriginal artAboriginal engravings
 
2024 10 25 Reg BarbaraR 4 321 bark shedding angophorasBark shedding angophoras
above North Harbour Reserve
2024 10 25 Reg Colleen 110739 kunzeaThe beauty of a
flowering Kunzea
 
Lunch was enjoyed at Forty Baskets Beach, where we made use of the metal garden chairs placed under shady trees (courtesy of the local residents?) and boats.
 
2024 10 25 Reg Deidre 1 views towards the headsView towards the heads with shacks on the left hand side2024 10 25 Reg Deidre 2 lunchLunch
 
Once everyone was refreshed we completed the final leg ending at Manly. The group then headed to the hotel on Manly Wharf for coffee and conversation.
 
2024 10 25 Reg Louis 12024 10 25 Reg Louis 22024 10 25 Reg Colleen 131508 spooky
 
Many thanks to Mary for 1st Aid and Clive for being tail-end.
 
Leaders: Phyllis and Colleen
Walkers: Clive, Claude de L, Tim, Annette Ell, Anne G, Mary, Lyndy, Kas, Robyn Ma, Claude P, Elizabeth, Barbara R, Christine S, Dorin, Ineke, Nick S, Deidre, Cleona, Louis, Pauline
Visitors: Elena and Giridharan
First Aid: Mary
Tail Ender: Clive
Photos: Barbara R (1, 3, 4, 6), Colleen (7, 12), Deidre (8, 9), Louis (10, 11), Pauline (2, 5)
Words by: Phyllis