LAKE CONJOLA

 11th-16th October

The group gathered at SeaChange Parks Lake Conjola on Sunday 11th October to establish their base for the activities in the days ahead. The Monday saw most of the group heading out for a kayak. Launching from the southern side of Narrawallee Inlet the Narrawallee Creek was thoroughly explored. In the morning the weather was remarkably calm making for easy kayaking. The wind picked up in the afternoon which at least provided some cooling from some hottish weather. Two arms of the creek were followed until it was not possible to continue - even after doing some limbo maneuvers under fallen trees. Non-kayaking members enjoyed a walk in the Lake Conjola area.

By Tuesday there was a complete change in weather which brought much cooler temperatures and fairly persistent drizzle. The main group headed out on a walk from the campground to the northern side of Narrawallee Inlet. The route was mainly along the coast with views of Buckleys Point and Buckleys Beach along the way. Most of the group returned for lunch at a Lake Conjola cafe. A few extended the walk taking a loop through the Narrawallee Nature Reserve back to camp. This part of the walk ventured further into the forest and past an old silica quarry site. The rain mostly subsided. Rather than walking, a small group undertook a kayak on Lake Conjola, launching directly from the campsite. In the afternoon there was also another short walk along the beach to view Green Island.

For the rest of the week the cooler temperatures remained but, apart from the odd spotting, there was very little rain. On Wednesday, the group headed to the Budawang National Park to (appropriately enough) Mount Bushwalker. The easy to follow route along wide tracks and boardwalks was taken up to the lookout where an impressive view was on offer - across to the Budawang Range and The Castle etc. The track along the cliff top and then down through some thick vegatation down to Ngaitung Falls was then followed. Lunch was enjoyed at the falls where, in the creek feeding the falls, yabbies were seen. Also in an isloated small pool tadpoles and frogs were spotted. Another lookout point was visited on the way back down to the cars. The many spring flowers and plentiful bright red sundews provided plenty of interest throughout this picturesque walk.

On Thursday it was back to the Budawang National Park to the undertake the Florance Trail. This walk took the group to a spot with a magnificient view of Pigeon House Mountain and two high lookout spots with great valley and coastal views. Again the spring flowers were a great feature, most especially a particularly thick stand of boronia shrubs. That evening, dinner at the Lake Conjola Bowling Club completed the trip's activities. 

Thanks to the leaders, Lyn and Phil.

 

Click here for more photos

JAGGERS BAY AND BERMAGUI

 Next activity: Lake Conjola and Little Forest Plateau - 12th-16th October - see progam for details

4th October

Robert led a walk up the south side of the Bermagui River on Sunday 4th of October. The 5 participants saw relics of a bygone era as well as interesting mangrove forest and oyster ground. Jaggers Bay and Rose Bay were traversed. Another day in an interesting part of the Australian Bush, followed by ice cream at the Bermagui Wharf.

Thanks to Robert for leading

Click here for more photos

BEOWA (NORTH) GIIYONG TRAIL

 Next activity: Jaggers Bay and Bermagui - 4th October - see program for details

27th September

This walk covered a section of the newly constructed Giiyong Trail, part of the Bundian Way. Starting clockwise on the Pinnacles Loop track ensured some beautiful coastal views of the Pinnacles and towards Lennards Island. The eagle-eyed also spotted a few whale blows a reasonable way out. The group then headed south along the Giiyong track, taking time to read about the indigneous relationship with the area on the information signs. The track takes a more inland route through the wonderfully varied forest with a good scattering of spring flowering shrubs and herbs. The sections rich in banksias, grass trees and bloodwoods were particualry impressive. A detour off the trail, to Cockle-Eye Ricky was taken so that lunch could be enjoyed with a expansive view of the ocean. Unfortunately, no whales were spotted close to shore. Although one or two were breaching out towards the horizon. However, a diamond python, coiled sleeply on the rocks, was an unexpected bonus. After lunch the group rejoined the trail following the route through to Aslings Beach and then around part of Lake Curalo. Some cars had been left here in the morning before car shuffling to the start. 

Thanks to the leader, Donna

Click here for more photos

MURRAMARANG - WALK, CYCLE and KAYAK

Next Activity: 20th September - Beowa (north) - Giiyon Track - see program for details.

6th - 11th September

Murramarang Beachfront Resort provided a blissful base for this activity packed camp. The camp kitchen and BBQ area provided get-together spots for afternoon nibbles and drinks, dinners and even an after dinner sing-along (thanks Alan). Coffee gardens, happy hour drinks and a shared restaurant meal added to the enjoyment of the location.

But that was just the backdrop for a busy few days. Starting with an afternoon kayak on Durras Lake on the Sunday afternoon and followed with three fabulous walking days: Pretty Beach to Depot Beach, Depot Beach to South Durras and then South Durras to Maloneys Beach. All walks featured picturesque coastal scenery, rock platforms and fascinating geological features (thanks for the information Jeff and Robert) beautiful forests and expansive views.

Three challenging cycling trips were enjoyed by an enthusiastic group: South Durras across the mouth to North Durras and then on to Depot Beach and Pebbly Beach, The Coast Road to North Head and along the Bingie Track on the way home. 

Various other activities were enjoyed by some including seeing Old Blotchy (the massive spotted gum),  fortuitously joining the Dalmeny-Narooma walkers to explore little known fossilised sea caves and for some a trip to the Eurobodalla Botanic Gardens.

Big thanks to the leaders and camp organiser Olivia and Nikki and to Jeff H for the cycling.

                                                                            

                                                    Click here for more photos

SNOWSHOE EXTRAVAGANZA 2026

 Next activity: Murramarang - walk, cycle and kayak - see program for details

28th August to 1st September

The yearly snowshoeing experience was once again enjoyed by an eager group of members. The weekend was kicked off by a briefing and dinner at the Lake Jindabyne Hotel on the Friday evening. The walk from Dead Horse Gap to the top of Thredbo was tackled on Saturday. Then on Sunday the Thredbo chairlift was used to enable the group to walk to Seaman's Hut. Some of the group camped here whilst others returned to Thredbo. A Mount Kosciusko walk was undertaken on Monday commencing from Seaman's Hut. Camper's spent another night on the snow and then headed down on Tuesday. Despite forecasts to the contrary, the group were delighted to find good snow and some wonderful weather.

Thanks to the Jo, the leader of the trip.

Click here for more photos

MURRAH RIVER GORGE

Next Activity: Snowshoeing - 28th August - 1st September - see program for details.

9th August

Six participants enjoyed a spectacular, though challenging, walk in the Murrah Gorge. The undergrowth was thicker than the last time this walk was held and, in some places, so scrubby that it made for fairly slow progress. Some very light rain early in the morning caused the river rocks to be slippery. There were no leeches or ticks, but some nettles, burrs and spiky vines were encountered. This was compensated for by the amazing vegetation including birds nest ferns, elk horns and rainforest trees as well as the treasures of the Gorge - as can be seen in the photos.

Thanks to the leader of the day, Robert.

                                                                         

Click here for more photos

                      

Merimbula Meander

 Next Activity: 9th August - Murrah River Gorge - see program for details.

26th July

The group enjoyed a relaxed meander around Merimbula. The weather was excellent and fabulous views were enjoyed at the numerous lookouts along the way, as well as from every aspect of the walk! The walk took the group through forest, tracks and along beaches, taking in Merimbula's Back Lake, the Mundooi Walk, Short Point and Long Point.

Thanks to (first time) leaders of the day, Marielle and Mel - who did a great job!

                                                                  

                                                       Click here for more photos

BROGO WALK

Next Activity: 26 July - A Merimbula Meander: see program for details.

12th July

A walk around the Brogo Dam environs rewarded everyone with wonderful views of the Brogo impoundment and the stunning gorges of Newton's Creek. There was some off track, some steep climbs and some open forest walking that was enjoyed by all.

Thanks to Robert, our leader for the day.

                                                                        

                                                         Click here for more photos

GULAGA SUMMIT

Next Activity 12 July: TBA: Email will be sent to members.

28 June

Gulaga is a sacred mountain for the Aboriginal people of the area. The site is of special significance for the women of the South Coast of NSW. The walk began in Tilba Tilba and there was a steady climb with some steep sections as the saddle and tors were finally reached before tackling the summit. Great views over the coast were abundant on this walk.

Thanks to Dianne H, our leader for the day, and for filling in at such short notice.

                                                                    

                                                         Click here for more photos

AROUND TATHRA

 Next Activity: 28 June Gulaga: see program for details

14th June

Last Sunday 14th June, a small but mighty group were treated to our own private tour of the stunning Tathra coastline and bush tracks, led by the lovely Mark and Marie. A few showers the night before may have put some off attending, but the morning clouds dissipated early on and we ended up with a beautiful clear winter's day.

We spotted some interesting fungi and flora along the way, as well as a mob of eastern grey kangaroos, and a family of yellow tailed black cockatoos at Kianinny Bay.

We started (and ended) at the Tathra Pub, taking a coastal meander along the Kangarutha track.

We climbed the (many!) steps at Kianinny Bay and were rewarded with a beautiful view to enjoy with our morning tea (and catch our breath!).

A drinks stop at stunning Boulder Bay was followed by another winding wander through the forest with glimpses of ocean peeping through the trees, and then through to lunch with a view on the rocky clifftop before taking the fire trails through the bush on White Rock road, eventually leading us back to our final and most sought after destination....The Pub!

We finished off with a cool drink and early dinner at the Tathra pub while watching Australia win the soccer (sadly no live music that day!).

Thanks to Mark and Marie for leading an interesting and scenic 13km walk, and for arranging the gorgeous weather!

                                                                      

                                                              Click here for more photos

ARAGUNNU TO BENGUNNU via HIDDEN COVE

Next Activity: Around Tathra - see program for details.

31st May

This walk featured great weather, great company, great scenery and great adventure. A circular walk departing from the stunning Aragunnu campground and heading south taking in beaches, rocks, and forests. The entire walk was off track giving everyone the opportunity to practise and observe navigation skills using a variety of apps. The group was fortunate to see gang-gang cockatoos, sea eagles and appreciate some of the interesting geology of the area including unusual black sandstone on the rocky coastline. Morning tea was enjoyed after a scramble down to Hidden Cove and then another scramble back up the cliff to continue the adventure arriving at Bengunnu Point for lunch. Bengunnu is a tombolo - a natural sand ridge connecting an offshore island to the mainland, and lunch was enjoyed on the rocky headland with world class views. The afternoon's walk back completed this circular route. 

Thanks to the leader Robert for a great walk, navigation tips and filling in a program gap at short notice.

Click here for more photos

MIMOSA ROCKS NP WALK

Next activity:14th June - Around Tathra - see program for details

3rd May

This was a wonderfully relaxed walk around some old favourite spots in the Mimosa Rocks National Park. A meandering route was followed through the magnificent forest this area has to offer. Morning tea was enjoyed on the western edge of Middle Lagoon and lunch close to Gillards Beach - after the group had taken a track skirting the lake. The walk along Gillards Beach took the group back to their cars. It had become quite windy by this time but luckily this beach walk was wind assisted. Overall a thoroughly enjoyable moderatley easy walk of around 11km.

Thanks to Ian, our leader of the day.

Click here for more photos

AROUND ROUND MOUNTAIN

Next Activity: 3rd May - Tanja Forest Walk - see program for details. 

21 - 23 April

A group of 8 hardy souls set off on this spectacular 3 day adventure, departing Round Mountain carpark on heavily laden bikes for the 14km ride to Derschko's Hut. The group was happy to finally arrive at the hut which was nestled in the valley beside a creek - the water supply for the next few days. Camp was made 200m uphill from the hut to take advantage of the early morning sun and stunning views of Mt Jagungal which glowed in many colours at sunset. Evenings were cold, nights were very cold, mornings were frosty but the days were warm and bright.

The second day held many highlights: a challenging bike ride, an unlikely hidden and dramatic waterfall, a fabulous hike to the summit of Mt Jagungal with its expansive views, and a visit to O'Keefe's Hut. This hut was rebuilt after the fires and its walls are lined with newspapers from the 1940's. Lots to be intrigued by and to smile at! After a 7km return ride to camp the group enjoyed another evening together under a spectacular starry sky.

The final day saw a leisurely breakfast whilst enjoying the vistas of Jagungal, then the pack up and the ride back to the cars. On the return journey the group enjoyed a well deserved coffee and treat at the Adaminaby bakery. 

Thanks to our leader Ray for his great organising of this camp.

                                                              Click here for more photos                                                                                     

A BERMAGUI WANDER

 Next activity: 21st-23rd April - Around Round Mountain - see program for details

5th April

The walk followed the coast from Wallaga Lake to bermagui. The route included Dragon Tail Rock. Horse Head Rock and Camel Rock.

Thanks to the leader of the day, Sam

CUTAGEE LAKE PADDLE

 Next activity: 5th April - A Bermagui Wander - see program for details

22nd March

What a wonderfully relaxing kayak this was. The group launched from Cutagee Bridge and explored the nooks and crannies, and bays of Lake Cutagee; including a diversion into Cutagee Creek. Refreshment and leg stretch breaks were taken on the banks for lunch and in afternnon tea . A majestic sea eagle cunningly camouflaged in a dead tree was spotted. And, delightfully, Azure Kingfishers flitted about on more than one occassion. Happily, the weather was fine with mostly low winds for this splendid paddle. Althoiugh the onshore sea 'breeze' towards the finish made sure the group had to put in some work. This event had been on the 2025 program but it had to be cancelled because of the high winds. It was worth waiting for. 

Thanks to our leaders of the day Di and Eric

Click here for more photos

BRINDABELLA SKI LODGE, GUTHEGA

Next activity - 22nd March - Cutagee Lake Paddle - See program for details

9th - 13th March

The Brindabella Ski Lodge in Guthega made for a very comfortable base for a few days walking in the Kosciuszko National Park. A good sized group convened on the Monday afternoon full of excitment for social and active opportunities offered in the days ahead. 

Day one, Tuesday, saw the main group heading to The Sentinel from Charlotte Pass. The route crossed the Snowy River early on and then headed up the Main Range Track, past the Blue Lake, and later diverting from the main track that continues up to the Kosciuszko summit. An off-track and challenging section was then taken. A worn track was picked up along the razor-back ridge with steep up and down climbs, and including a testing short rock climb. The trig at the summit was reached by scaling the boulder covered final peak. A number of the party made it to the top while others opted for a longer lunch break. Regardless, there were amazing views down to the Strzelecki Creek and across the Geehi Valley. After regrouping, back at the start of the razor-back ridge, and a well earned lunch, the group retraced the route back to Charlottes Pass. Others chose not to go out to The Sentinel, Instead they stayed on the Main Range track up to Carruthers Peak before returning. Also, a couple of our walkers chose to take the walk from Charlotte Pass back to Guthega.

Day two, Wednesday, saw rhe main party walking from Charlottes Pass to Perisher. This is a well-loved walk, much easier than The Sentinel walk (usually). The easy-to-follow track was mainly comprised of metal 'boardwalk' sections or stone steps. Kilometre markers indicated progress. The route took the party through snow gum open forest and magnificient granite boulders. The views through the valley and down to Bullock's Flat and Crackenback were wonderful.  Towards the end of the walk were the impressive Porcupine Rocks before the final descent into Perisher. It turned out to be a very windy day, much windier than anticipated. This added an exhilerating extra challenge to the walk. A couple of our walkers (a different couple to day one) chose to do the Charlotte Pass to Guthega walk.

Day three, Thursday, the wind had dropped for perfect walking conditions and saw most walkers tackling the beautiful Charlotte Pass to Guthega walk. This walk again includes lots of environment saving, metal boardwalks. Following along side the Snowy River, the route was lined with fabulous trees and low lying shrubs. A fine example of an Anenome Stinkhorn by the side of the track was of particular interest.

Friday morning the group disbanded and headed for home enriched by the experience.

Thanks to Ray for leading and all his hard work in organising accomodation etc. A job well done. Also thanks to Lyn for organising the meal sharing roster.

Click here for more photos

KAYAKING - BEGA RIVER

 Next activity - 9th to 13th - Guthega (Members Only) - see program for details

22nd February

Ditching the walking boots on a warm summer day (some would say hot) the group headed for Blackfellows Lake Boat Ramp. Kalaru. From this point, kayaks were launched. The lake and some side channels and a section of the Bega River in the general direction of Mogareeka. Morning tea and lunch were enjoyed at suitable riverside spots. The most notable wildlife included: an enchanting Azure Kingfisher; a high-up sea eagle standing sentry over their massive nest; and a kangaroo bounding swiftly from one side of the river to the other (Clearly, in one of the shallower sections). 

Thanks to Dick, our leader for the day

YOWAKA GORGE

 Next activity: 22nd Febraury - Kayaking Bega River - see program

15th February

This was a beautiful and fun walk in the magnificient Nullica State Forest. The route included lots of variation following fire trails, small tracks and taking more challenging off-track routes and rock hopping along and across water courses. Visiting the picturesque Old Hut Creek and Yowaka River, lunch and morning tea were enjoyed water-side. After lunch, the group picked their way along the spectacular gorge to a spot where a final break provided an opportunity for a plung in the cold waters of the Yowaka River. A boots off ford crossing and a steep uphill climb returned all to their cars.

Thanks to our leaders of the day, Lyn and Phil

PICTURE NIGHT

 Next activity: Yowaka Gorge  - 15th February - see program for details

6th February

A large audience turned up to Club Sapphire Merimbula for an evening of photos and videos of trips that members have had. These included: an expedition ship adventure to the Antarctic Peninsula; hiking and exploring South Island New Zealand including The Milford Track, Stewart Island and more; 4WD touring in the remote wilderness of the Kimberley; a northern Europe experience from Scotland, the Arctic and Norway to the Netherlands and Belgium with exciting train, ship, barge and cycling activities; a cycle and trailer camping adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Utah and Colorado; a stunning trip through Norway (travelling up as far as the Russian border) in winter time featuring a spectacular snow and ice covered wonderland and the sighting of many exotic bird species; sightseeing, cultural experiences and trekking in Nepal and Tibet; and even a 'Special Pictures' presentation of weird and crazy signs of toilets, safety precautions, artistic features and etiquette tips throughout Sri Lanka, Austria, Nepal, Tibet and more. A dinner break, halfway through proceedings provided an opportunity to socialise and discuss future adventures.

Thanks to Jeff for all his work in organising and running the evening

SUMMER MEET

Next activity: Picture Night - 5th February - see program for details

11th January

The first event for the year was a social gathering and BBQ at Mogareeka Lions Park. Enjoying the cooler weather after the previous days of heatwave conditions, previous and current members chatted and caught up in a relaxed and cheerful environment. Conversations ranged from memories of past events to discussions about the many fabulous activities planned for the year ahead.

Thanks to Sam for the photo and especially to Peter for organising the event and the extra efforts made to contact so many past members.

HAPPY 2025

 Hi folks

If  this is your first visit to the page, welcome.

On the main part of this page, you will find reports of what we've been up to this year'. Down the right side you will find records of the activities in previous years.

Please see the 'PROGRAM' page for upcoming events.  Our 2026 program will be posted soon.

Hopefully you will be able to find any other information you need by clicking on one of the other tabs above. If you can't find what you are after then you can email our secretary - see 'CONTACT US'.

Hope to see you in the 'great outdoors' soon