Welcome to the 1st Quarter of our 2008 Walking Year
Walk Reports and Photos

A large convoy of 29 eager bushwalkers completed a delightful 19.4 km bushwalk in perfect weather from the campground at Congo through to the rocks at Bingie and return on Thursday 17 April 2008. This walk largely followed the Bingie Dreaming Track and highlighted the wonderful coastline in our local area.

We followed the track behind the dunes for much of the way but also walked several of the beautiful beaches in the area. The tide was out and the beach walks were easy going. Keen eyes located several tiny native orchids growing by the track and a very large redbellied black snake lolling in the noonday sun on the edge of the track provided more than a little excitement.

We looked for any early whales going north from Meringo Headland but no luck! We all had a good look at the dramatic rock formations at Mullimburra Point.

Lunch was taken on the rocks near the old boiler at Bingie Point and then our trail led us back basically the same way with a final stop at the historic gravesite on the hill above the Congo campsite.

Our many thanks to Karen for a very fine walk.
Noel  

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The Castle
Sunday 13 April 2008

Long Gully Camp Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Bob, Betty, Len & Bob Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Drying out at lunchtime Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	The weather clears Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

8 intrepid souls, Bob M, Bob T, Barry and Carol, Noel, Betty and Ann and Kay joined our erstwhile and fearless leader, Len, and camped overnight beneath the towering peak of the Castle and set off at 6am Sunday morning, 13 April 2008, for the ascent.

An overnight southerly had produced just a few claps of thunder and some vivid lightning but nonetheless we were hoping for a clear day ahead as we left camp. Alas, this was not to be and at about 10am the skies opened and despite being pretty well covered in ponchos, most of us were soaked through fairly soon. However we did dry out quickly as the sun broke through the clouds, and we decided to press on for “ The Tunnel”, an aptly named fissure which necessitated some crawling and some pretty nifty footwork to scale down the rocks at the other end. We decided here to press on for the first lookout since the sun was out.

The walk so far had been up, up and up and so with very tired thigh muscles by this stage, we continued up and up, even winding ourselves around “Cuddle Rock” at one stage. A few steadying hands under bums here were required with an occasional push and shove. Several of the group with various knee injuries and even perhaps a little fear of the height found this section fairly scary going and so by the time we reached the First Lookout it was time for lunch.

It was at this point also that our walk leader decided that we simply did not have time to make the rest of the ascent without perhaps running into darkness at the end and so we turned back at this point and did the “down, down, down “ part of the walk with a change of environment which bypassed the tunnel.

Around 3pm the thunder, fierce lightning, hail and torrential rain left us fairly sodden and the sight of the Yadboro River at the base was indeed a welcome one.

Some of the group stayed a second night in camp whilst others drove out the same day to head for very welcome warm showers. Many thanks to Len for continuing to show our members one of the wonderful parts of our local area – this is a difficult and challenging walk and requires significant responsibility on Len’s part to ensure walkers’ safety. Our many thanks Len from everyone.
Noel  

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Kioloa State Forest and The Big Tree,
Saturday 12 April 2008

Big Tree, Little Lesley Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Another lovely autumn day and 23 walkers assembled for another day of great walking. We welcomed two visitors who were first time walkers with our Club. Cars & passengers sorted, we drove north up the Princes Highway to 18 Mile Peg Road which was the starting point for our walk.

After only a few minutes of walking, Heather spied a spectacular orchid specimen in the fork of a spotted gum, this was the first of many orchid plants seen along our walk. Continuing on we passed under power lines which stretch for kilometers following the contours of the hills. The track then narrowed and with the bush now closer we spotted the dainty yellow flowers of Persoonia mollis, the orange candles of Banksia spinulosa and the pale green bells of the climber, Billardiera scandens. Above our heads the flowers of Acacia terminalis made a pale creamy avenue. Still the track wound on, fallen trees made the track a bit of an obstacle course, over or under which will it be, then when crossing the remains of an old wooden log bridge it was single file, a bit like walking the plank. The track had now almost disappeared and we wound through the scrub - this was bushwalking.

Suddenly the track widened, we had completed our loop walk, now it was down the hill through the grass and bracken and back on the road. A few more metres following a narrow single file track and there in all its splendour, standing in a gully of Cabbage Tree palms was the BIG TREE. A magnificent Corymbia maculata or spotted gum, that had somehow escaped the early loggers.

We sat on logs eating our lunch and gazing in awe at this forest giant whose circumference was measured in eleven walkers holding hands around its girth. A lovely walk on a lovely day, thank you to Ian, our walk leader.
Karen C  

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Carriages Road, Kingiman Trail, Jindelara Trail, Northern Buffer Trail,
Wednesday 9 April 2008

Noel, Jan, Wendy, Ian and Len Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Wednesday 9 April, six Bushwalkers set out west of Milton to cross the saddle between Florance Head and Mount Kingiman, venturing into the Croobyar forest. Recent rain had the creeks muttering, and the clean air seemed to sharpen the details of the vegetation. From the soot-scarred trunks of the turpentine trees, to the delicate shapes of various ferns and moss-covered boulders, there seemed to be an abundance of delightful textures to please the eye. After passing the towering cliffs of Florance Head we descended through the forest where there appeared to be a territory dispute between numerous wombats, with their markers appearing frequently along the Jindelara trail. Although delayed by a posing pair of Glossy Cockatoos feeding on casuarina nuts, which had the photographers in knots, our leader Ian had us back at the cars within five minutes of his estimated arrival time, true to form.
Bob T  

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Tennis Social Event and BBQ,
Friday 4 April 2008

Bob, Jock and Paul cook up a storm at the BBQ Photo by Mike Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Mary and Stan relax after their efforts on court Photo by Mike Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Joan presents prizes to Tennis winners Andrew and Jean Photo by Mike Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

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Turlinjah Bike Tracks
Thursday 3 April 2008

An old wooden bridge Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Walk Leader Margaret Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Seventeen Batemans Bay Bushwalkers assembled at Turlinjah, south of Moruya for a 12 kilometre walk led by first time walk leader Margaret. Margaret had put together an entirely new walk for the Club which followed forest roads and motor bike tracks on a circuit through the Moruya State Forest. Forest roads tend to follow ridges, which in this area run through dry sclerophyll forest. The motor bike tracks cut between the forest roads and took us down through several gullies, at the bottom of which were mostly dry rocky creekbeds. We stopped for lunch in one of these cool, shady gullies among the ferns with the sun filtering through the grey myrtle.

As usual walkers remarked on the beautiful trunks of the Sydney red gums which grow in this area, as well as the red seeds of the burrawang fruit which had been plundered by possums. It was yet another opportunity for members to enjoy the remoteness and quiet of the bush, the exercise, and the company of fellow walkers.
Karen M  

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The Castle
Saturday 29 March 2008

Nearing the summit Photo by Barry Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Climbing the rope Photo by Barry Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	View of the Budawangs Photo by Barry Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	View from the summit Photo by Barry Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On the 29th March, 9 bushwalkers led by Castle veteran Len, took on the most challenging of bushwalks - The Castle.

After crossing the Yadboro River which was only shallow, it wasn’t long before the great views were to be seen. The further into the walk, the better the views, some of the best scenery in South East NSW.

The route was circuitous, the approach being along the western flank of the Castle, its summit not visible at that stage. So far the walk had been challenging but not particularly arduous. After the saddle the climb was not for the faint-hearted as ropes are needed in several places and a strong pair of hands.

After enjoying lunch and wonderful views from the summit, the descent was going well one of the group had an unlucky accident on one of the ropes and sustained a heavy blow to the chest, causing him much pain. Fortunately due to his fortitude and fitness he was eventually able to carry on, albeit with much pain and discomfort.

The party finally reached the cars by torchlight and our injured mate taken to hospital to discover that he had 3 cracked ribs.
Barry

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Monga National Park - Pinkwood Walk
Wednesday 26 2008

Marg, Denise and Anna Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Pinkwood blossoms Photo by Ian Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Wednesday 26th March, Batemans Bay Bushwalkers were led by Stan on a walk through the Monga National Park called the "Pinkwood Walk". Pinkwoods are a white flowered tree whose blossoms are falling at this time of the year, looking like snow when the wind blows, and covering the ground like snow, particularly under and around the tree ferns which are prolific in the area. This is a very pretty forest walk on the Canberra side of the Clyde Mountain, and has gas barbecues available at the picnic shelters where cars are parked.

The Club had 29 members and 6 visitors enjoying the easy 9 kilometre walking morning, followed by lunch.
Joan  

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Plot Road Circuit and Durras Lake
Thursday 20 March 2008

Leader Mike with Doug, Debbie, Ann & Jan Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Leader Ainslie with Ann, Bob and Doug Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

It was a warm sunny day when 11 walkers headed for Murramarang National Park. Our leaders Mike and Ainslie called the planned walk the ‘Pink Ribbon Walk’. We set off on an old logging track that led us into a shaded walk with trees towering over us. The tracks we followed were covered in a soft carpet of leaves and forest compost, with fallen logs and branches presenting some challenges.

The walk took us to the shores of Lake Durras for morning tea and again we were back again to the lake for a relaxing lunch break.

The circuit walk brought us back to our cars with some choosing to finish the day with an iced coffee at the Rainforest Galley. Highlights of the walk included, tall spotted gums, burrawangs, casuarinas, lake views, a sea eagle and a cool valley of tall blue gums, mahogany and green vines.
Heather  

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Blackbutts and Burrawangs behind Bengello Beach
Saturday 15 March 2008

A small number of bushwalkers set out from South Broulee Beach to walk to the mouth of the Moruya River along the beach at low tide and back via the sand tracks in the bush behind Bengello Beach. The temperature was predicted to be 30 degrees C and I’ve no doubt it did reach that temperature. There was a pleasant breeze off the ocean. We explored the breakwall at the mouth of the river and had lunch in the shade of a Coastal Banksia before setting off for the return trip.

Walking in the sand dunes proved to be a bit more strenuous than was expected. The sand was dry and loose, having been churned over by 4 wheel drive vehicles. We accepted the challenge and pressed on. Thank you to our leader Jamie.
Margaret W  

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Durras Lake and Discovery Trail
Wednesday 12 March 2008

Jeanette on the Discovery Trail Photo by Gill Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Walk Leader Claudia with her troops Photo by Gill Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Wednesday 12 March a group of 15 from Batemans Bay Bushwalkers set out along the Northern edge of Durras Lake in fine, calm conditions. It was pleasant going on a good, shady and mostly flat track, with an Autumnal Lake providing a particularly fine setting. The objective of the Durras Discovery Trail was reached and traversed, although there was some disappointment at the continued poor repair of the boardwalks and signage.

Returning via the Lake edge, lunch was taken on log seats in a flat spot before returning to the cars on the Mt Agony Road.

Birds encountered on the walk included Eastern Spinebill, Eastern Whip-bird and a Heron. Thanks to Claudia for leading a most pleasant walk that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
John W  

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Maloneys Beach to North Head,
Sunday 9 March 2008

The Track to North Head Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Canoe Tree Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Noel enjoys the North Head Rockpool Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Sunday was a perfect weather day so 24 walkers set out in the Murramarang National Park. We started walking from the northern end of Maloneys Beach, following a bush track up on the headland. What a spectacular view over the Bay! A pod of dolphins close to the northern shore added to the scene.

We continued along the coastline sometimes walking on the sandy beach and over the headlands via bush tracks. Our morning tea stop was at the “Canoe Tree”.

When we looked down from the headland we could see the rocks below submerged, but showing fascinating colours and shape. Yellow Rocks, a well known landmark, were bathed in the bright sunlight beckoning to be explored, but not today. Our destination was North Head .

We reached our destination in time for lunch. A few brave souls took a swim in the rock pool before eating their lunch. The place chosen for lunch was at the foot of North Head. The eastern aspect of this headland is a sheer rock wall carved out by the sea and leaving the most amazing colourings and patterns in the rock. While sat on the rocks under this wall to eat, someone got their pants wet without going swimming. (Hmmmmm, let's hope it was just a leaky waterbottle - ed.)

Our return trip retraced our steps back to Maloneys Beach. All agreed we have the most wonderful walking spots right here in our backyard. Thanks to our leaders Bob and Joan.
Margaret W  

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Congo to Mullimburra Point
Thursday 6 March 2008

Overlooking Meringo Beach Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Honeymoon Bay Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Meringo Lagoon Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Mullimburra Point Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Thursday a group of 19 walkers set off for another coastal walk along part of the "Dreaming Track", Congo to Mullimburra Point. The day was fairly warm, but this did not deter anybody.

This part of the Coast is one of the most scenic areas imaginable, jagged rocks of basalt, granite and sandstone - luckily we had a visiting amateur geologist along to inform us all about the landscape and how it was formed many millions of years ago.

Along the way we passed several pristine beaches which can only be reached by foot, little islands, and Ron our guide even took us to a overhang and showed us the remains of an old bridge (a plank of wood) which fishermen with a death wish used to get closer to the water's edge.

The wildlife put on a show as well, we had seals wallowing offshore, sea eagles soaring along with the currents, a couple of not so timid Swamp Wallabies, and the few walkers up front even came across a sluggish black snake.

All in all a lovely day's outing, one everybody enjoyed and we thank our leaders Ron and Barbara wholeheartedly.
Denise  

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South Durras Lake and Coast
Saturday 1 March 2008

Walk Leader Mike with group Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Ann, Bev and Marilla Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Autumn is a great time for bushwalking, and Murramarang National Park is a great spot for stretching the legs. Nineteen walkers hit the sand at Cookies Beach and headed towards Wasp Head, where Mike, the Walk Leader, provided a geology lesson. So now, with heads down looking for fossils, we headed south around the rocks towards Emily Miller Beach. However, with big seas pounding the rocks we soon had to take to the bush. Taking a track winding up behind Dark Beach it wasn’t long before we reached the start of the Myrtle Beach Headland Walk.

After a short morning tea break on the cliff tops above Flat Rock Island, we returned to Cookies Beach for lunch. Following lunch we wandered through the village before heading into the forest to walk along the “old Benandarah Road”. On reaching the current Benandarah/Murramarang Rd we crossed the road and headed north along the edge of Durras Lake. The route here became a bit more difficult as we climbed over, under or around large fallen trees. This trip along the lake edge also provided some glimpses into the past as we came upon the old punt platform, as well as part of the old paddlewheel from the punt.

Soon it was time to leave the lake and head east, through a damp reedy flood plain area, towards the beach. After 12 kms we were now on the “home stretch”, the leaders' home that is, where we had all been promised “tea & cake”!
Mary M  

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Nargal Lake Area just south of Narooma
Wednesday 27 February 2008

Morning tea overlooking Montague Island Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Descending to the beach Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Ainslie, Denise and Meriel Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Wednesday 27th February 35 intrepid bushwalkers headed down to the Nargal Lake area south of Narooma - the walk was led by Geoff and Elizabeth. Storms were forecast but it turned out to be a warm day with a pleasant breeze. The coastline was looking its best, it was very green and lush where we sat for morning tea looking towards Montague Island and surrounded by brilliant views.

Then on to stroll across some beaches and rocks, past Nargal Lake to end up under some shady scrub on the shores of Corunna Lake for lunch. Finished lunch then walked back to our cars, our thanks to our leaders.
Ann  

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Kioloa to Bawley Point
Sunday 24 February 2008

Kay Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Walk Leaders Margaret and Hugh Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Margaret and Hugh chose an afternoon walk to showcase some beautiful coastal scenery to 31 walkers. The weather was perfect for the occasion, brilliant sunshine with just a little breeze to keep temperatures down. The walk began at Kiola along firm sand and smooth rock platforms. The route then turned inland to the Aboriginal Walk which follows the clifftop. Signs here describe the way of life of the early inhabitants. Three sea eagles put on a show for us there and then it was back to the beaches, along to Bawley Point where all enjoyed a convivial picnic tea. Days like this always remind us of how lucky we are to live in such a wonderful part of the world.
Trish  

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Pebbly Beach to Snake Bay and Return
Thursday 21 February 2008

Walkers Lunch at Snake Bay Photo by Bob B Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Debbie and Ann Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	John, Marilla and Jan Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Thursday 21st February, which was an overcast day, 31 bushwalkers led by Lesley walked along our beautiful coastline from Pebbly Beach to Snake Bay and return.

The group included visitors and new members swapping walking experiences as they either ascended or descended the moderate sloping terrain, measuring the length of their strides with the constructed well worn track. Light drizzle threatened to hamper time at the luncheon spot which was 31 people perched on the rocks at Snake Bay listening to the waves, but wet weather gear once donned was soon removed. This was a easy walk of 8km.
Marilla  

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Exploring Musgrave Creek
Saturday 15 February 2008  

Four hardy walkers led by Val had an up & down sort of day. We drove to near the top of the Clyde Mountain, then without parachutes, plunged over the side into a small version of the Grand Canyon, all the way down to Musgrave Creek. In the last thirty metres of descent, we left behind the dry forest and entered the fascinating world of running water, lush vegetation and rock walls covered in ferns, mosses and orchids. Of course we then went upstream, and met a 4-5 foot snake,(grey back, beige belly)who ignored our careful flanking manoeuvre

We climbed steadily, wading much of the way, while admiring the many birds nest ferns, some set in rows along horizontal branches, with huge specimens high in the trees. The roots of some trees reached into the water, fanning out like creamy tendrils, waving in the current. After lunch near a small waterfall, we then went back down to look for our new friend without success, and started the climb up to the top, following which, of course, we drove back down.
Bob T  

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Tuross Lake Canoe Trip
Wednesday 13 February 2008

Watermelon Break on Cambathin Island Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Anna on the home stretch Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Last week Batemans Bay Bushwalkers took to the waters to explore the waters of Tuross Lake by canoe. 19 members paddled out from Lavender Bay, across the lake and around Horse Island and Cambathin Island. After a stop for morning tea, the real excitement started. One of the canoes tipped over allowing those paddlers to explore underwater.

A rescue was mounted immediately by other members, who picked up the soaked paddlers, soggy lunches, and other jetsam and towed the canoe to shore. Those not involved in the rescue were in danger of falling in themselves as they laughed heartily or scrambled for their cameras. This is an example of the wonderful camaraderie enjoyed among the ranks of the Bushwalkers.

Excitement over, we continued paddling to our designated lunch spot. Our journey back to the cars was along a quiet narrow waterway and in that tranquillity we were able to spot various birds, Elkhorns etc. and lament the disappearance of the orchids that used to grow on the Casuarinas overhanging the lake edges.

This must go down on record as one of the most memorable activities that I’ve been part of. A big thank you to the leaders Bob and Karen.
Margaret W  

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Meroo Lake Area, with Forest and Beach
Sunday 10 February 2008

Walk Report pending.  

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Beaches and Clifftops of Guerilla Bay and Rosedale
Thursday 7 February 2008

Beachwalkers Photo by Bob B Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Rockwalkers Photo by Gerri Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Bushwalkers Photo by Bob B Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Wet Weather Walkers Photo by Bob B Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

A season opening walk with 39 participants is a hard act to follow, however the following midweek Guerilla Bay walk led by Paul and Trish succeeded admirably with 31 participants (as Bob B stated “1/6 of our membership”).

We started our figure eight walk from the beach car park heading north along the beach and through the headlands which further reinforced what a beautiful place we have here on the South Coast. Trish and Paul provided area history and local information along the way. Several intreresting "wait till the waves go out" rock transits were done without a problem.

After returning to the car park for morning tea and discussion of how Guerilla Bay got its name (no consensus), we started off on the southern leg of the figure eight along the headlands and out to the abandoned lighthouse with its great views of the coastline. Then the rain started! It slowed us down only long enough to get our rain gear on to finish the walk back at the car park for lunch.

Another successful bushwalk - Thanks Paul and Trish
Dave B  

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Long Beach to beyond Reef Point via Beaches and Cliffs
Saturday 2 February 2008

Thirty nine bushwalkers met for the first walk of the new year under light clouds. Before many steps on our 12 km walk were taken along Long Beach, the sun burst forth and the temperature rose. Long Beach and Maloneys Beach looked lovely against the blue of the sea and sky before we headed into the Murramarang National Park. The track led us through spotted gums and macrozamias with tantalising glimpses of the coast through the trees. The shade was welcome and a light breeze helped us along beyond Reef Point to our lunch spot.

The return journey took us around the rocks and over the headland back to Sandy Place, a cooling paddle, and a thank you to Jill and John, our leaders.
Barbara  

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