THE Dalmeny Narooma Bushwalkers enjoyed two contrasting and satisfying walks last week, both undertaken in mild spring sunshine, through countryside freshened by the recent thunderstorms.
On Thursday, Martin Kotvojs led a group of 16 walkers through the bush and paddocks of his farm on Dignam’s Creek Road, and the adjoining Gulaga Reserve. As well as the interesting views and vistas provided by the walk itself, the experience was enriched by Martin’s fascinating stories of his 50-plus years on the farm and by his informative and lively answers to the many questions asked.
Lunch was enjoyed on the deck of an amazing energy-efficient home recently built on the property, designed in harmony with the environment, with great views across the paddocks to the blue hills beyond. After lunch, the group spontaneously divided in two when they passed some old sheds and paddocks crammed with old vehicles - really old vehicles. The car enthusiasts in the group found it impossible to walk past this impromptu museum without a serious inspection. Eventually they tore themselves away (ie, were summoned) and joined the rest of the group to thank Martin for a memorable walk.
Wattle Grove Road, a bush track up the back of Wagonga Inlet off F Ridge Road, was the setting for a 10km circuit trek for six walkers led by Margaret and Rody Byrne on Saturday. Although the wattle blossom that brightens the track in winter had disappeared, the flowering shrubs provided plenty of colour, with mauves, purple and gold being the dominant shades.
But the most vivid sight was the brilliant scarlet flash on the tails of a pair of glossy black cockatoos that flew over and settled for a minute or two on a nearby branch to the delight of the group. They are rarely seen by the walkers so this was special.
The group trekked mainly downhill for the first hour or so, chatting away as they enjoyed the easy going. However, after crossing Billa Bilba Creek the going got tough and the ‘rabbits’ got going, while the putative leaders struggled in the rear. Despite being quite arduous in parts, both the fit and less fit members of the group enjoyed the peace, isolation and the beauty of this infrequently programmed walk.
If you are interested in joining walks undertaken by the club, contact Michael McDonagh on 4473 5504.