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14 walkers arrived by car and train for a 9am start from Brooklyn. Wendy C had kindly offered to step in as co-leader whilst Jenny attended a funeral today. Many thanks Wendy for great leading. Heading off at 9:10am up the Great North Walk track via the very steep concrete fire trail south of town, all seemed in high spirits with lots of energy as they climbed to the top. After a short drink stop, we headed along the now flat fire trail to meet our well-hidden turn off to the south. The only indication was a very small rock cairn. Following the now minor track was aided by rock cairns on the many rocky areas that others before us have placed in strategic spots. However, some areas of overgrown bush along the track (including lots of dead fallen low scrub), made it difficult at times to stay on this minor track. Navigation was however aided by following a GPS track recording Peter made a few years ago.
All walkers coped very well. It was a Plus walk after all where distance (only 8km) was not the determining factor of the experiences we were to encounter.
Encountering a steepish 3m climb up one ledge, Peter deployed his safety tape by tying it to a good, well-located tree. All seemed happy to have that peace of mind as they ascended the rock.
Ascending the rock 
Our First group photo
Once we climbed onto the high, rocky northern end of Porto Ridge, we opted for an early morning tea where we enjoyed extensive views over the Hawkesbury and our first group photo.
Following the ridge was easy at times with large expanses of sandstone.
Views of our lunch spot, to the east, as we continued south
Views of our lunch destination (Peak Hill) to our east, intrigued us as we continued south. We eventually turned to the east towards Peak Hill, descending into the valley that took us to the base of our hill climb. It looked high and steep but we all managed to ascend without any issues, reaching the top fairly quickly for an early, extended lunch.
Views from the top did not disappoint as they extended in every direction.
From the west looking at the freeway, the two Brooklyn bridges and the Hawkesbury River , to the north with parts of Brooklyn, the east end of Dangar Island across to Little Wobby and all hills beyond , then east looking down the Hawkesbury River with glimpses of Barrenjoey Lighthouse and the Bahai Temple .
From the west looking at the freeway, the two Brooklyn bridges and the Hawkesbury River
To the north with parts of Brooklyn, the east end of Dangar Island across to Little Wobby and all hills beyond 
... then east looking down the Hawkesbury River with glimpses of Barrenjoey Lighthouse and the Bahai Temple.
We also had clear views of the bays directly below us to the east with their Oyster leases, and did I mention hills everywhere. All agreed it was a fabulous place and well worth the climb to the top.
Most of the group
After another group photo (not all sorry), we started on our way back the way we came. Flowers were sparkling as Wendy C was keen to show.
Wendy C 
... flowers ... 
... and ... 
the same steep descent
As the bush was quite dense along the ridges, we did not attempt the shortcut across the deep valley.
On Porto Ridge, interesting rocks and a view to the west 
Close up
Porto Ridge offered some interesting rock and other views to our west as well as a good chance for posing shots.
Encountering the same steep 3m descent down the ledge, 
Peter deployed 
the safety tape.
Encountering the same steep 3m descent down the ledge, Peter deployed the safety tape once again to aid walkers on this little section.
Reaching the Great North Walk fire trail, we decided that the side trip to the aboriginal engravings towards Brooklyn Dam, could wait for another day. It had been quite a hot day for this time of year and all were very thirsty, so cool drinks and coffees at the pub beckoned. We finished the walk at 2:40pm, a 5.5hr day. Some planned to catch the 3:23pm train whilst others were offered lifts in cars.
Thanks all for doing so well today in sometimes difficult conditions.
Thanks to Trudy (Tail End Charlie) and First Aiders Leah and Polly.
Walkers: Peter T, Wendy C, Polly, Hazel, Janet, Trudy, Leah, Nick S, Pragati, Wendy LR, Alan O, Carolyn, Claud dL & Peter H (Visitor)
Leaders: Peter T & Wendy C
Words: Peter T
Photos: Peter T, Alan O, Nick S, Hazel.
