As we gathered at the meeting place, the forecast westerly winds were blowing strongly. With some doubt about the safety aspect, we discussed alternatives, but decided to proceed, prepared for possible problems.
However, on arrival at our start point, we found conditions to be acceptable, and relaxed by counting the many kangaroos & wallabies lounging around the village. They were untroubled as we set off, walking past & through mobs that were relaxing in the sun. A pair of rare hooded plovers were foraging at the edge of the estuary, and also a pair of pied oyster catchers, further on, but not another human was to be seen on the long stretch of unmarked beach on the way to Point Upright.
Instead of our usual route around the rock platform, we climbed the track to the lookout, and found a new platform had been built, with fencing, to keep people away from the dangerous edge of the cliff. The sea was flat, due to the westerly wind, but no whales were to be seen. After walking along the top of this prominent headland, we descended into Depot Beach, and found more kangaroos lounging on the grassy flats above the beach. Before settling into lunch, we explored the groves of ancient rainforest on the slopes of the escarpment, protected & nourished by the slopes above.
Lunch overlooking this beautiful cove was a millionaire’s view, but we could see much smoke further up the coast, which we learned later was a major fire near Burrill Lake. Apart from that ominous sight, the walk was very enjoyable, and we returned to the cars satisfied with the excursion.
Click for larger and captions from the website. Photos by Carol and Donna
**** 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
