On a chilly morning 16 walkers boarded the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo. As we sauntered along Bradleys Head Walking Trail, we took a small detour to have a peek at Athol Hall which is a beautifully restored heritage house dating back to 1850. Athol Hall is said to offer ‘idyllic scenery, expansive gardens and light filled interiors, creating the perfect backdrop for unforgettable weddings and events’.
Looking at Athol Hall On the track
Moving along, we soon reached Bradleys Head for morning tea. The wind was brisk at this exposed point with most people trying to find a sunny spot out of the wind. After checking out the HMAS Sydney Memorial Mast and the many plaques we ventured off along Taylors Bay Track very much appreciating the lush bush which protected us from the wind.
Some danced Some relaxed
Some sat out of the wind
Detail of the memorial The old GPO pillar
Most walkers agreed that this was the perfect walk with warm sunshine on our backs and the glistening harbour on our right.
The abandoned house is finally being rebuilt View across Chowder Bay
Soon we were at Chowder Bay where we stopped for lunch, some choosing tables in the sunshine and some choosing tables in the shade. The park had a large array of birds including 5 kookaburras, lots of brush turkeys, noisy minor birds and seagulls – all hanging around scavenging for food. We had to be careful with our food as those birds were very persistent.
After a casual lunch it was a short walk across the park to Café Le Mar for our traditional coffee. As the bus only came once an hour, we had a relaxing time sitting, drinking and chatting in the sunshine. Although this walk is relatively short there were many steps along the way to negotiate but everyone agreed it had been a perfect day.
At the appointed time we caught the bus to South Mosman Wharf just making it in time to hop on the ferry and return to Circular Quay.
Leaders: Anne R and Robyn Ma
Walkers: Carol, Claude de, Claude P, Lyn, Lyndy, Margaret P, Martin, Monique, Nick B, Robyn Mi, Ron, Suzanne plus two guests: John & Wendy.
First Aid: Lyndy
Tail Ender: RonPhotos: Claude de (3,4,6,16,17,18), Lyndy (1), Margaret P (8,9,11,15), Robyn Mi (2,5,7,9,10,12,13,14)