With a forecast of rain at 2pm and overcast skies, 10 walkers travelled to Tilba Tilba to walk part of Gulaga mountain (Mt Dromedary). Reading up on the dreaming stories as outlined on the information board, apparently Gulaga was the mother of two sons, Baranguba (Montague Island) and the younger son, Najanuka (Little Dromedary). The story goes that Baranguba didn’t do what his mother told him, can’t be reunited with her and is separated by the sea, so she kept Najauka closer to herself when it was time for him to leave. After a car shuffle we set off on the long climb to Gulaga’s saddle, thankful that there was no hot sun and that there were plenty of distractions from the steep gradient with filtered views of Wallaga lake, lush tree ferns, bird song and fungi.
Above: A long slog to the top. Several Geological survey plaques were also noted on the route. Gulaga appears to have good tree coverage now, though mining history records how one side of the mountain was de-forested in the search for gold from 1860’s onwards. After a break, we viewed the magnificent granite tors that are sacred to Aboriginal tradition. It was an impressive detour to a very special place.But wait! There’s more!Next, picking up a 4WD track, Rob led us to Narooma’s water supply dam complete with a huge slab of granite rock face and waterfall where we had a well earned rest and lunch. Bang on cue, the rain arrived during the last leg of the 11km walk but it was not enough to dampen our enthusiasm for an excellent day out.
Above: Philip, leader Rob and Erika pause on the way to the top. Photos by Helen and Mary
**** This article first appeared on the Batemans Bay Bushwalking website
About the BATEMANS BAY BUSHWALKERS INC. First formed in 1985, we have about 200 members. We are not-for-profit and run by volunteers We are an Incorporated Association with a Constitution and a Committee to oversee administration Personal Accident, Public Liability and Associations Liability Insurance is funded by your annual subscriptions We publish 4 Walks Programs per year, with 2 walks a week of varying grades. Visitors are welcome on walks and are covered by our insurance for 3 walks per financial year Walks are led by volunteer Walk Leaders, who carry a GPS, topographic map, and when appropriate, a safety beacon. We take our safety seriously. Bushwalking is a risky business, accidents do happen, injuries do result. Each walk is graded for difficulty so that you can choose walks to suit your level of ability. Members and Visitors sign a Responsibility Waiver before each walk. We also get together for a variety of social activities and camps, but you have to be a Member to come along to those
