Beach Or Bush?

Members of the club who wished to walk in the perfect weather available last Sunday were able to choose, and seven opted for the beach, while another eight decided to rise to the  challenge and face a day of serious climbing in the Homevale National Park.

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Ken Fihelly escorted his group out to the Mt Addar Road for the start of the assault on Clarke’s Pinnacle which is about 3 km NNE of Sydney Heads. Most of the morning was taken up climbing a long steep ridge with an elevation of 350m. Saplings, vines and rock obstacles made for hard going which was rewarded by spectacular views across a wide deep valley to Clarke’s Pinnacle, which was the destination. Lunch was taken at a lookout with Sydney Heads, Mt Britton, Mt Fort Cooper and the Marling Spikes all in sight. The ascent of Clarke’s Pinnacle itself led to views of Kinchant Dam and parts of the Pioneer Valley, followed by a steep descent down a dry gully. It was a hard but rewarding walk and the journey back to the cars involved trying to avoid lantana.
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Mandy Nimmo’s group assembled at Illawong Beach at 11 am to suit the tide, as Shellgrit Creek had to be negotiated early on after walking for a short distance along the beach. The destination was the mouth of Bakers Creek, and a clear blue sky and a gentle breeze made for excellent walking conditions. The offshore islands were outlined crisply, and soldier crabs were out in their hundreds. The serious photographers in the group found lots of interesting subjects, and a shady, grassy spot was found for lunch. Most of the group completed the entire distance of about 11km, and with the mountains to the south, the sparkling ocean, and the perfect conditions, a great day was had. 

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For more information on upcoming kayaking, cycling and walking activities, phone 0429 363 929.

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Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes

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