NURRA BUKULLA (Bithry area)

 Next Activity; 29th June - still in preparation, details to come.

15th June

The group was thoroughly engaged, fascinated and entertained by the tour led by property owner, Marina Ely as she explained the significance of the many artworks, sculptures  and features on the property, Nurra Bukulla, and the legacy left by her father, Marr Grounds, and grandfather, renowned architect Sir Roy Grounds. Morning tea was enjoyed at a picnic spot where more stories were related and walk leader, Robert, showed photos of some of his early experiences with the Ground and Meyer families.

The group was then led through the property into the National Park at Birthry and to the barn designed and built by Roy and lived in by Marina and her father, this area bequeathed to National Parks by the families. After lunch the group enjoyed an extended walk through Bithry overlooking stunning coastal views and through forest dominated by spotted gums and burrawangs to complete a very interesting day. 

Many thanks to the leader, Robert.

CYCLE QUEENSLAND RAIL TRAILS

Next Activity: 29th June - a walk is in preparation, details to come soon and then the program will be updated.

19th May - 5th June 

Over almost 3 weeks, Jeff and Jo led an amazing cycling and adventure trip in Queensland with a group of 11 keen participants completing 600km of cycling (for those who did the full trip) and a variety of bushwalks.

The first section was from Wulkuraka to Yarraman on the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail staying at; Lowood, Esk, Linville and Yarraman. The group then tackled the challenging link road up to Kingaroy where a rest day offered the opportunity to visit the Bunya Mountains National Park, or for some, just a day off to rest and catch up on chores. The final 2 day leg to Kilkivan on the South Burnett Rail Trail saw the group completing Ausralia's longest RT at 161km. 

The riding provided much enjoyment as well as many challenges with its varying terrain; rocks, sand, blue metal and gravel with some very rutted sections. There were large sections of single track as well as many steep and rocky creek crossings. Bakeries, cafes and pub meals along the way were much appreciated by all, as well as the well maintained Qld. caravan parks and free camping reserves.

From Kilkivan a 3 day journey across to Noosa was made along secondary roads, byways, Centenary Trail and assorted linking tracks and roads, camping enroute in the quaint towns of Widgee and Kin Kin with a stop off in the idyllic coastal village of Boreen Point.

A few scheduled rest days at Noosa coincided with the first inclement weather and the group was fortunate to stay in a luxury home on the Noosa River for 3 nights enjoying walks around Noosa Beaches, the headland and the National Park as well as achieving some very successful fishing from the home base.

Back on their bikes once again, coastal shared paths took the group south through the Sunshine Coast enjoying camps at Maroochydore, Coochin National Park and across to the Glasshouse Mountains where they spent 2 nights, taking the opportunity for a day's hike in the spectacular landscape. 

The final leg of the trip took the remnants of the group along some relaxing and scenic roads back to their vehicles at Caboolture, concluding another epic and successful trip together.

Huge thanks and appreciation to the leaders of the trip, Jeff and Jo

NUNNOCK SWAMP

Next activity: Nurra Bukulla - 15th June - see program

1st June

This was a return to an old favourite in a beautiful area, unaffected by the 2020 bushfires, in the tablelands of the Tantawanglo section of South East Forests National Park. A total of around 13km was covered on the network of walking trails. The two loop routes took in a good variety of ecosystems in top condition. A pleasant day was enjoyed exploring the forest-fringed wetlands and grassy woodlands around the wetlands near Alexanders Hut to the east. The leaders shared some of their insights and in-depth knowledge of the area gained through past NPWS work which enhanced the experience. In addition, plentiful informative signs highlighting significant flora and fauna and discussing history of the area also contributed to the overall enjoyment.

Thanks to the leaders of the day, Lyn and Phil.

‘MURRUMBOOEE' NUNNOCK RIVER HIKE AND SAUNA/SWEAT - COLD PLUNGE

Next activity: Nunnock Swamp - 1st June - see program

18th May

This short but hard hike followed the course of the Nunnock River. It involved some rock-hopping and steep bank traverses. The route passed through some thick and varied vegetation including fern forest and remnant rainforest to a small cliff top. The this deeply satisfying walk returned the same way to a waterfall where the group had lunch. To finish, the hard work was rewarded by the opportunity to enjoy sauna time and a cold plunge. There was also the opportunity to further explore the waterhole area, a second waterfall, and a grotto with moss covered cliffs.

Thanks to Alicia for leading the day

MERRICA RIVER

Next activity: ‘Murrumbooee,’ Nunnock River Hike and Sauna/sweat-Cold Plunge - 18th May - see program

4th May

A last minute reschedule saw the BVBWs return to the ever beautiful Nadgee Nature Reserve. The original walk at Nunnock Swamp walk had to be postponed due to National Parks' pest control work.  The walk proved to be a very fine substitute.

The walk started at the Greenglades Picnic Area and headed south to the Merrica River. The going quickly became tricky soon after leaving the beach. Tracks followed in the past were difficult to negotiate. Thick undergrowth had taken over the area in response to the 2019/20 bushfires. Nevertheless, there was much to enjoy with early flowering wattles, impressive forests and glimpses of the scenic coastine. The group was eventually lead successfully through the bush, stopping for an ocean-side morning tea, to the river mouth. Here there was time to explore, swim or just sit and relax over lunch. The tide times, unfortunately, made it impractical to cross the river to explore the southern side of the river. After lunch, the group made their way back to the Greenglades Picnic area. On the way out of the reserve, a final stop was made for the Jewfish Walk. A short out-and-back walk, through open forest and then along a boardwalk over wetland, rewarded the group with an expansive view over Wonbyn Lake.

Thanks to leader of the day, Lyn.