MALLACOOTA

 Next activity: 14th December - Christmas BBQ - details sent to members by email

29-30th November

The planned weekend had to be modified when the weather turned out to be unsuitable for kayaking on the Saturday. Nevertheless, the group made the most of the weekend. An enjoyable walk on Saturday in the Croajingalong National Park, via the Captains Creek Trail, through magnificient forest and along the lake foreshore into Mallacoota was substituted. Early on the rain fell quite heavily but after lunch the day brightened up and the sun appeared. The track appeared to be well protected from the winds that could sometimes be heared strongly blowing through the trees. The route took the group past the narrows which the kayaks would have passed through. It was agreed the walk was a much better option for that day.

The kayaking trip on the Sunday, along the Betka River, went ahead as planned. A few spots of rain threatened as kayaks were launched but soon the sun was out and the whole trip was completed without further rainfall. A relaxed paddle up the river and back was therefore greatly enjoyed. Although,  at the end, a sudden wind squall picked up - thankfully just after the last of the kayaks landed. The timing had been perfect. A picnic lunch was enjoyed in the sun by Betka Beach. Everyone was headed home before the rain resumed.

Apart from the program activities, some of the group arrived early on the Friday and took the opportunity to explore some of the other walking tracks close to the town. This provided the opportunity to enjoy some of the beautiful and varying vegetation communities of the area and the wonderful coastal views and beaches. Mallacoota did not disappoint, koalas were spotted. Indeed, right outside the weekend''s accomodation of some of the group, a koala was moving through just as they were heading for dinner on the Saturday evening. After that excitement, a delicious dinner was enjoyed at Lucy's restaurant.

Thanks to Pip for leading the weekend and hosting the group for dinner on the Friday evening. Her calm flexibilty in less than ideal conditons were much appreciated.

A WALK IN THE TANJA FOREST

 Next activity: 29th to 30th November - Mallacoota (kayaking) - see program for details

16th November

On a beautiful spring day, this was a relaxed walk through the forest of Mimosa National Park in the general area of Tanja, Cowdroys Beach and Nelson Lagoon. While many of the spring flowers have had their time, but a number of fringe lilies were still on show; possibly brought on be some recent rain. The walk through the magnificient spotted gum forest and coastal views were greatly enjoyed. An apparently curious goanna joined the group for lunch by Nelson Lagoon. The absolute highlight of the day, however, was a small koala that happened to scuttle past the group and up a tree. A rare sighting and a very special and memorable moment. The group were delighted and felt very lucky.

Thanks to our leader of day, Ian.

A NEW BROGO WALK

 Next activity: 16th November - A walk in the Tanja Forest - see program for details

2nd November

 Another wonderful walk in the Brogo River area was blessed with equally wonderful weather. The group was lucky enough to be given permission to explore the forested hillsides and picturesque banks of the Brogo River only accessible through a private property. The route up and down hills and along the flat, followed old tracks, dry creek beds and some off-track walking. The last big fire in the area, in 1953, and the changes that this brought to the area were pondered. As well as the open forest, there was much to appreciate in this rich environment; from a pre-fire survey tree, to magnificient granite bolders and impressive fig trees. Lunch time at the river provided an opportunity for a quick dip to cool down. Close by a water dragon sunned itself on a rock while a number of sacred kingfishers flitted from tree to tree above. This walk in a very special area was bought to a perfect end as the group were invited to join Jeff for a delicious afternoon tea.

Thanks to the leaders of the day Jeff (and for providing afternoon tea) and Robert. (and for sharing his historical knowledge). Special thanks also to the property owners for allowing our visit.

LENNARDS ISLAND - THE LONG WAY

Next activity: 2nd November - A New Brogo - see program for details

19th October

The weather gods provided a wonderful spring day for this longer than usual, 20km, walk. This was an exploration of the area between Cockle-Eye Rickie and Lennards Island taking in some of the less frequented parts of the northern section of Beowa National Park. The walk made use of the fire-trails, fishermans' trails, minor tracks and included an off-track section. Passing through the stately Beowa forest, several stunningly beautiful rocky coastal points were visited via a convoluted route.

Plenty of whales greeted the group at Cockle-Eye Rickie. The group didn't know which direction to look as the whales appeared to compete for attention with multiple breaching. A small group, close in, extended the stop as they impressed with various tail slapping, spyhopping and breaching manoeuvres or just skimming along just below the surface. Whale sightings just never get old, but somehow the group just had to eventually tear themselves away - there was still a lot of walking to do.

Lunch was enjoyed at Lennards Island. The longer distance of the walk did not stop some of the group venturing over onto the island for an additional optional extra circuit of the island itself.

The spring flowers were also a delight. At this time of year each visit seems to be rewarded differently. Among the many flowers spotted on this walk, too numerous to mention, were lots of delicate Fringe Lilies (including a white variation), Milkmaids and two different Orchids - the Tiger Orchid and the rather inconspicous Red Bearded Orchid. Other notable vegetation included a large stand of magnificient Xanthorrhoeas, accessed by the off-section; these plants do not appear widespread in the area.

Thanks to the leader of the day, Donna. Thanks also go to Diane who helped with the walk reccies.