Walkers: Catherine (v), Doug M, Linda, Liz, Lothar, Michael J, Mike H, Tim (v)
Photos:
Report:
Saturday: We all met in Lorne shortly before 10am and drove in convoy to Qdos, dropped off a car, and then drove another few kilometres to the picnic area. The area was wet from recent rains and everything was sparkling. After the long drought you could almost see the plants drinking in the moisture. We had morning tea and then headed south along the gently descending track. (This section had been closed a year or two when floods caused one of the bridges to be upended). After a quick explore of Swallows Cave we crossed the creek and climbed towards Sheoak Falls. This area is quite scenic and there are a few lookout points. We took obligatory pics of the falls and then retraced some of our steps before the long steep climb to Castle Rock.
Perched on the top of a cliff, the views from Castle Rock are excellent - the sea in the background and the Cumberland River and Holiday park below us. We pointed out Mike & Liz's Wedding Anniversary cabin, and the Satzke & Peterson tents - we'd all slept there the night before. After a short lolly & snack break we climbed back up and headed to the picnic area for lunch.
As time was slipping away we decided to skip the sidetrip to Henderson Falls and the detour via Allen Reservoir. The Canyon area was as spectacular as ever with its tall ferns, fallen timbers and rocks, and the track signs that have arrows pointing downwards into a hole in the ground. Further on, Phantom Falls also had enough water flowing over the top. After more photos and drinks we headed north east towards the Cora Lynn carpark and along a (mostly) 4WD track to Qdos. The drivers then picked up their cars from the picnic area and picked the rest of us up before heading back to Lorne.
We had a round of high GI drinks and talked about the day. Linda and Michael (and Chris) then headed back home. A few of us had a counter tea that night before retiring early.
Sunday: another great day! Happy anniversary Mike and Liz! We packed our tents, gear, etc, and arrived at the Sheoak Picnic area shortly after 9am. Doug was already there to meet us. Our party of 6 then headed to Lower Kalimna Falls along a track that was once used to haul the tall timbers out of the area. The overhang at the falls is quite spectacular.
Next we continued to Upper Kalimna Falls. While not spectacular they were nevertheless worth seeing. After a short rest we decided to take the same shorter and more scenic route back to the picnic area (rather than the longer uphill route via the 4WD Garvey Track). We were at the picnic area an hour later and immediately had lunch. Catherine and Tim then left - and we were reduced to 4.
We'd somehow saved the best till last. Henderson Falls are small and cute. With the twin flows coming over the top, the ferns, and the prospect of seeing wild orchids - it is always a wonderful place to visit.
Many thanks to the Betty and Chris support team and to all for a magic walking weekend.
Lothar
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