First Quarter for 2009. See below for
Walk Reports and Photos

A group of 18 headed into the forest west of the Clyde River on a beautiful Autumn morning, with a cool wind and clear skies. The walk took the group through attractive sunlit forest, where the light played patterns on the burrawangs and tree barks. An early break on a sun warmed rocky outcrop gave everyone an opportunity to listen to the early morning forest sounds.

Billy’s hut is not marked on the map, but Karen followed undulating and sometimes overgrown footpaths to bring us to the ruined hut, now just four walls positioned slightly above a dry creek. On such a sunny morning with no water nearby it was hard to imagine that this could have been a mining cottage more than 120 years ago. It was an isolated spot and Billy would have faced quite a trek to Nelligen to collect supplies.

After visiting the hut the group completed a circular walk along well-made tracks into one of the deeper creek gullies before an energetic climb back to the starting point.
Rodney  

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Behind Broulee and across Broulee Island to the Grave
Saturday 11 April 2009

Heather and Val Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	What's Martin seen Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Historic grave on Broulee Island Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Easter Saturday, five brave men and 18 even braver women followed Betty on a forest walk through the suburb of Broulee and on to the top of the outjutting Broulee Island.

After a scamble up the abutments on the southern side of the island, the walkers were led around the outside of the prominence to view all the outstanding aspects of the local area. Many holidays makers frolicked in the lovely clear waters of the beaches below the walkers, on a glorious Autumn day

A brief visit was made to wonder over the lifestyle of the pioneers as represented by the two who are buried on the top of the island.

Despite the inability of one of the walkers to find her missing hat on her back, all the walkers were very happy to have had the opportunity to see 15km of the Broulee landscape.
Ann  

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Broulee to Moruya North Head
Wednesday 8 April 2009

23 walkers set off along Bengello Beach track, Broulee, on Beverley's 14 km walk. The weather was just about perfect as we walked past the creek and through the eucalypts and macrozamia plants. After the Moruya airport windsock we headed onto the beach and along to the rock wall to watch the rolling waves and boatmen risking the dangerous bar. Overhead were several parachutists jumping out of small planes into the cloudless blue sky.

We settled down for lunch on the rocks before walking back along the beach with the tide out far enough to allow walking on firmer sand. Gulls wheeled in the sky and oyster catchers sifted through the seaweed - what better way to spend a day. Thank you, Beverley.
Barbara  

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Corang Arch
Thursday 2 April 2009

Cancelled due to rain
 

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Backpack to Western Budawangs and Monolith Valley
27 March - 2 April 2009

I’m pleased to report a successful backpack in the Western Budawangs. Because of the weather conditions, we did not leave till Friday 27 March, and even this was damp, having to wade through wet bushes waist high. In fact, the track was very overgrown, making progress difficult and slow. NP work parties this winter.

But we climbed Corang Peak and bypassed the Arch, reaching our Corner Cave by about 4pm. Lovely sociable evening and a nice fire.

Next day we proceeded to Cole Cave – a nice big one with a sunny aspect to the west. That afternoon we went with day packs into Monolith Valley, with great views over Holland Gorge, and fresh water in the Green Room. Unfortunately not enough time to explore this wondrous valley further.

Next morning we returned to Corner Cave in fine weather and Monday, it was walking out via Corang Arch in atmospheric cloudy and damp conditions again.

Great four days!
Betty  

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Beaches and Cliffs of Guerilla Bay and Rosedale
Wednesday 25 March 2009

	Jill, Carol, Nev and Rob Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Wednesday 27 bushwalkers set off from the Guerilla Bay car park heading off towards Rosedale Beach. The walk took us along to Guerilla Bay then up over the Headland down to Tranquil Bay and it was easy to see how this name came about, a lovely spot.

Then back up over another headland along Nuns Beach and then again over the headland to Rosedale beach. The scenery along the way was a little hampered by low cloud and smoke blowing down the coast.

The walk back from Rosedale beach was almost the same route as coming, but instead of going to the car park we did a detour up to Burrewarra Point and here the sky had cleared a little offering some coastal views. Around Burrewarra Point and back to the cars where some walkers decided to head home for lunch, while the rest of us stayed for a little longer at the beach.

Thank you Paul and Trish for a great walk.
Denise  

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The Castle
Sunday 22 March 2009

The Castle Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	The Mayan Head Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	View from the Top Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Len, Nev, Stan, Sharon, Geoff, Joe, Barry & Rodney Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Although it has been done many times by many people, the ascent of The Castle is no small feat. 9 willing Bushwalkers set off at dawn on Sunday 22 March to attempt the arduous climb of about 850 m (nearly 3000 ft) over a distance of about 6.5 Km. The youthful group, aged between Nev, the pup at 54 and our leader, Len at 74 who has lost count of his ascents, achieved the summit in 6 hours. It was a perfect day, with a cool start for the hard work, and clear conditions on top. As we toiled up the harder part near the summit, Len was bleeding by example and soon we all had scratches and scrapes to emulate him.

We nursed our battle scars on the edge of the southern rim, resting over a meagre lunch and marvelling at the views from one of the highest places in the region, with Byangee Walls below and Pigeon House nearby. The descent is barely less arduous and a threatening storm urged us along. We reached camp just before dark, exactly 12 hours from the start, in light rain; but a dip in Yadboro River, a change of clothes, hot food and drink by the fire with triumphant comrades, in a mood of great achievement, was ample reward for our efforts. Our sole female member, while nervous at the beginning, performed the difficult climb like an expert and exuberantly pronounced it to be “a pinch of p***” (this is a family webside (Ed).

Challenging, demanding, scary, exhilarating, exhausting. It’s all of that and much more. A great experience, thanks to our very capable leader, and one I will treasure.
Bob T  

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Turtle Fire Trail Creek
Thursday 19 March 2009

	Deep in the forest Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On a beautiful, sunny and clear day 10 walkers assembled by the Buckenbowra River where it’s forded by No Name Mountain Road and were briefed on the walk by our leader Valerie. We noticed pencil cedars and a large River Peppermint growing there.

Under Valerie’s ‘inspirational’ leadership we followed the Buckenbowra a short way upstream till the junction with Turtle Fire Trail Creek on the left. The going got more challenging as we followed the creek as there are no marked tracks so we each took turns at finding the easiest path along the narrow creek banks – sometimes with a bit of rock hopping (there being more water in the creek than we expected) to the other side if the path there looked easier.

The going was slow as one had to be careful how one placed one’s feet, especially on slippery rocks and as the vegetation was quite thick in places. Still we appreciated the solitude and natural pristine beauty while picking our way along, stopping sometimes to admire the huge casuarinas, be enchanted by the reflections in rock pools, to spot rock orchids or bird nest ferns, to catch a glimpse of wonga pigeons or inspect the tracks and traces of such as lyre birds and wombats.

We lunched at a lovely spot on the creek when we encountered a steep gorge which would have perhaps taken too long to navigate, so chose – as Valerie sensibly suggested – to retrace our steps to the ford with Turtle Fire Trail. From there it was a very steep climb up to the junction with No Name Mountain Road which we followed back to the start point somewhat reluctantly ending a wonderful experience overall.
David  

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Wriggly Circuit, South Durras
Saturday 14 March 2009

Joe Photo by Donna Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Lace Monitor Photo by Donna Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Murray, Christine & Ted Photo by Donna Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

A beautiful sunny day greeted 12 keen bushwalkers and the ensuing walk was spectacular in the Durras area. Murramarang National Park put on its best display with blue/green ocean waters gushing onto rocky ledges and platforms that were all various colours and shapes.

Jock and Margaret led us along quiet secluded beaches like Myrtle, Dark and Emily Miller plus along many trails through bushland of tall spotted gums, some forming into strange shapes from years of strong winds and fierce storms. The highlight was to see a 2 metre lace monitor scuttling up a nearby tree and staying there long enough for us all to admire him. Close by was a beautiful stand of flowering bloodwoods as we headed back to the car park. A wonderful day was had by all - even the steps and short hills!
Olive  

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Hanging Mountain and Pinkwood Creek
Wednesday 11 March 2009

Pinkwood Creek Photo by Karen M Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Carol, Barry and Ian Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Walkers admiring a flowering white sour bush Photo by Bob T Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

With the hope of seeing the famous Pinkwood trees in flower, 26 Bushwalkers descended into the headwaters of the Deua River. As we neared Pinkwood Creek, masses of blossom could be seen covering the crowns of the Pinkwood trees, which are the dominant tree along some of the streams. Although they were only beginning their mass flowerings, being late like most flowering things this season, there was a light carpeting of white petals on the ground, their scent was noticeable, and the bees had found them. The flow in the creek was very low, so we enjoyed a trek along it, as the water in the pools was cold and clear, and the forest watched in silence.

Flushed with success, we then became flushed with exertion as we trudged up the long climb out and up to Hanging Mountain for a spectacular view and a well-earned lunch. A delightful walk, well led by Karen M.
Bob T  

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Walk and Canoe - Benandarah Creek and Durras Lake
Sunday 8 March 2009

Enid with a magnificent rats tail orchid Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Crossing the Creek Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Washout on Benandarah Creek Photo by David Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Walk Report yet to be received
 

	Benandarah Creek Photo by David Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Durras Lake Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

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Tomakin, Burrewarra Point, Guerilla Bay and Return
Thursday 5 March 2009

	Betty and Rob at Guerilla Bay Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Stan at Guerilla Bay Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On Thursday Bob T led us on a delightful 12 km walk along the cliff edges of the coast from Tomakin to Rosedale, then back by a scenic inland route. The views up and down the coast were spectacular, rocky outcrops, crashing waves, golden beaches and the beautiful blue ocean. Thank you Bob for an unforgettably magic day.
Betty  

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Cullendulla Nature Reserve
Saturday 28 February 2009

	Jock Photo by Kay Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Donna Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

A warm sunny day encouraged 27 walkers to meet for a delightful walk beginning at Long Beach Heights and following the path from the car park along the top of Square Head through a forest of Spotted Gums and Burrawangs which grow specifically in our coastal region. The group ventured to the furthest tip of Square Head to gasp at the dramatic cliff face below and spectacular views to the horizon.

After morning tea it was back on the track and down to the water's edge at Cullendulla Creek to meander along the shoreline, admire rock formations and black swans - do they sleep out in the open seawater? With such tempting clear water some enthusiastic members could not resist taking a refreshing plunge before lunch, followed by a walk through bushland beside the water to the end of the path and a return to our cars.

A big thank you to Ainslie and Mike for a walk unknown to several members and very much enjoyed.
Joan  

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Depot to Pebbly Beach - Coast and Forest Circuit
Wednesday 25 February 2009

17 walkers departed from Depot Beach heading inland to the forested section of the trail and continued in a northerly direction through the beautiful tall trees of Murramarang National Park towards Pebbly Beach. The dappled shade and light breeze made it a perfect day for walking. We descended to the grassy area surrounding the beach where we paused for afternoon tea.

After our break, we proceeded southward along the coast where the terrain was a combination of pebbles and flat rock shelves. Many more hours could have been spent here exploring the rock pools and inlets as the tide was at its lowest for the day.

Once back at Depot Beach, Bob C thanked Jill and John saying that the clockwise circuit was a better direction to tackle the walk. A picnic dinner was enjoyed by those who stayed. A perfect day and a great walk if you are looking for a treat for visitors.
Jean  

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Mogo State Forest
Thursday 19 February 2009

Heather and Bob Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Marilyn and Carol Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Ann Photo by Karen C Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Thursday morning, the sun is shining in a brilliant blue sky after days of grey overcast that had promises of rain that really never eventuated, and twelve eager Batemans Bay Bushwalkers were ready to walk in the Mogo State Forest.

Parking our cars in a secluded spot we headed off on bush tracks and fire trails following our leader, Betty, who set an energetic pace. As usual there was plenty of talk, catching up with news from fellow walkers, hearing tales of their families and visitors who had been down over the busy holiday period. It was nice to catch up. Spotted gums and Burrawangs were plentiful along the tracks and just the occasional blue bell of a Wahlenbergia. As promised by our leader the highlight of our walk were the magnificent granite/basalt rocks that suddenly appeared on either side of us, strange monoliths where one's imagination could take over - one certainly looked like a giant turtle.

Here we stopped for a quiet lunch except for Bob, who had a close encounter with a very angry red Bull Ant, and soothing first aid had to be administered. Then back on the track, just a few more hills and there were our cars.

Another successful walk, thank you Betty.
Karen C  

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Coastal Lagoons and Beaches near Potato Point
Saturday 14 February 2009

	Jemisons Point Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Charles and Dennis Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On February 14th Mary and Stan led a walk which took in coastal lagoons and beaches near Potato Point. Thirty people took part in the walk which went through parts of the Bodalla State Forest and Eurobodalla National Park. This lovely walk in forest, lakes and ocean made for a lovely combination.

The walk commenced on Potato Point Road, and through to Brou Lake and then along Tarouga Road to the beach, passing beside Tarouga Lake.

On the rocks below Jemison’s Point we had lunch as we watched some impressive surf. Some light rain fell but not enough to spoil the walk as a whole and we quickly dried off. After lunch we walked up along the headland to Potato Point Road where the cars were parked.

The walk was not a difficult one as we kept to well made dirt roads and easy tracks. Everybody thanked Mary and Stan for leading a walk along yet another wonderful part of our coast down here.
Barry  

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Tomaga River Paddle
Wednesday 11 February 2009

Nancy Photo by Jan Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Bob Photo by Jan Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Barry and Carol Photo by Jan Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo	Elizabeth and Geoff Photo by Jan Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Wednesday dawned warm and overcast - a definite improvement on the burning hot days we had recently endured. Fifteen Batemans Bay Bushwalkers assembled with kayaks at the Mossy Point Boat Ramp to catch the tide upriver. Due to the full moon the evening before, the high tide mark was very high and the water was running so fast we barely had to paddle before stopping for morning tea.

Then it was another quick run up to the junction with Jeremadra Creek where one of our number lived on her farm. Some of us stopped there to have a wander around the farm and enjoy the new calves, peacocks, geese, baby goats and lovely rural views. Others kept paddling upstream and eventually got to the Mogo Zoo to see zebra, kangaroos and giraffes in enclosures behind the fences. The river was so high that two of the group made it right to the Tomakin Road drain before turning around.

The return trip downriver was more difficult. Although the tide had turned, we were paddling into a fairly stiff southeasterly wind. After stopping for lunch we gritted our teeth and tackled the headwind. At the mouth of the river, the tide was running out very quickly and we had to make sure that we paddled out of the channel well before the boatramp to avoid being carried out to the heads.
Karen  

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River Road, Monga National Park
Sunday 8 February 2009

The 8th February was an important day for BBBW - a group of male members participated in an ASMBW (Almost Secret Men’s Bonding Walk).

The group walked in a local National Park down a very scenic track, well, it was almost secret. The walk was surprisingly wet considering the current weather, the profusion of many and varied ferns, beneath the canopy was simply stunning.

The talk as we walked was of pertinent male issues, but consisted mainly of long periods of totally silent meditation, unusual for the BBBW Club. The morning tea and lunch breaks, were taken with the correct liquids and food, and included the appropriate rituals.

The walk leader was heartily thanked for creating such a meaningful experience, and all agreed that further MOMBW (Male Only Meditative Bonding Walks) could become a regular occurrence on the walking schedule.
Secret Male  

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Broulee Coast Walk
Thursday 5 February 2009

	Sandra, Ian and Bob Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Nancy, Olive, Margaret and Claudia Photo by Lesley Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

On 5th February 39 Bushwalkers (including 6 visitors) met at Broulee Surf Lifesaving Club for the 2nd walk of the year. This walk was to be 7km long and led by Claudia. Given the very hot weather we are experiencing, Claudia was surprised at the numbers of walkers.

We set off up the hill to get a spectacular view of the beach, which was being organized to hold the Australian Surf Rowers League Navy Australian Open which started the following day.

We than walked around Broulee Island, rock hopping and there was a very much appreciated cool sea breeze. Barbara gave us a talk on the early history of the area. Once around the Island, 18 walkers defected and 19 continued the walk along the length of the beach to return to the SLSC.

Great walk, thanks Claudia.
Lesley  

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Kioloa to Bawley Point
Saturday 31 January 2009

	Heather at the beach Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo		Group heads up the beach Photo by Ann Click on thumbnail to enlarge photo

Led by Hugh and Margaret, 26 walkers left Kioloa at 2pm, for a steady walk to Bawley Point enjoying the warm sunshine and bright company of several visitors.

We followed the sea shore either on an elevated track above the beach or on the firm wet sand by the sea; finding it very a pleasant walk with cool sea breezes, interesting rock formations and changing coastal views. The walk took three hours after which we enjoyed an optional swim and picnic tea at Bawley Point, chatting in the dappled shade of the old gum trees. Thank you Hugh and Margaret for a very enjoyable day.
Joe  

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