Mackay Bushwalkers Take On Mt Jukes

This week, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club were able to choose between climbing Mt Jukes, the awesome double humped landmark within the  Pioneer Peaks National Park, or a more relaxing outing along the recently upgraded Pioneer Valley Rail Trail.  

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Walkers at each location were exposed to plenty of scenic countryside, with those who reached the top of Mt Jukes having expansive views in many directions, and the valley walkers taking in distant ranges and lots of farming activity as they covered about 8kms each way, starting at Gargett and returning the along the same path.

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For the ladies walking the Valley track, the cloud cover made for pleasant walking, but as the sun emerged, it became hot along the open sections. The first section of the trail had received grading, blue metal and drainage pipes, and an early morning tea was enjoyed at the creek. The participants were serenaded by a variety of birds as two Ulysses butterflies flittered around, and the small group led by Mandy Nimmo had the track to themselves.

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Meanwhile, another group of about the same size with a more challenging undertaking, guided by Peter Bennett and Ken Fihelly, enjoyed the sunny winter weather amongst a variety of interesting plants ranging from the tangled roots, buttresses and vines of a rainforest environment to ferns, epiphytes and healthy clumps of grass trees. Although this walk is rocky, steep in places and can be tiring, the stunning views of the distant valleys and mountains make it all worthwhile.

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Just as the club has in recent times offered mountains, creeks, beaches, waterfalls and bush tracks, a similar variety of habitats awaits current members and fresh recruits in the upcoming months. Phone our membership secretary on 0429 363 929 for details about our online induction process and our joining fees.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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