Victoria Falls

The trail into the National Park

With the terrible news of a British  backpacker, feared dead and missing for 8 days, after walking in the Blue Mountains,  I feel the need to stress the importance of a few basics steps that  will help prevent trouble should you  want to enjoy  this wilderness area.

1. Plan your trip.

2. Tell others where you are going, what  your time frame is.

3. Take a mobile phone. They  do work in a lot of areas e.g.  on top of Mt Solitary.

4. Research your  trip.  Many  are unaware that there are a lot of mine shafts in the Blue Mountains.

5. If possible do not travel alone. 3 is an ideal number

6. When  walking in a group only  go as fast  as the slowest member, never walk off ahead.

7. Wear appropriate clothing. Again, today I met a guy  in a suit, business shoes and no water.

8. ALWAYS carry water with a little in reserve, a first aid kit, and enough food for an emergency night stop.

9. ALWAYS take a rain jacket and something warm. Even on  a hot day. 

10 Always take a box of waterproof matches.

11. Use a map.  There are many  little tracks that  are often "blind" but can take you  away from  the correct one.

12. Take a gps and use it

13. Know your fitness level. If you are unfit- don't do it.

14. If you are in trouble- stop, think and do not panic.  Panic will only  make it worse.

David admiring the view from one of the viewing platforms.

It's just  simple stuff, but it is simple to fall over and break a leg too. These simple things can make a night out easier, and for rescuers to find you faster. Sadly I  feel society  is being "dumbed down"  and a lot of people think its the responsibility of National Parks, rangers and rescuers and that its easy  for them  to find you. Its not.   

Today David wanted to walk to Victoria Falls to look for birds and yabbies.  I  am  pleased to say we saw both.  Its a great  walk, with  spectacular views and as said in previous posts, the western end of the Grose Valley- leading into the Blue Gum forests and all those other places I have mentioned in previous posts.

Tall ancient tree fern forests.

I love the Blue Mountains, Its where I feel at ease with myself, its where I can build my  relationship  with  my  son- away from the hectic pace of city  life. Where basics are the key. I  enjoy  watching him grow, watching him become fitter, and listen to his conversations. These are true gifts.

After a few hours we returned refreshed.

The Cascades. Red yabbies live in these pools

 On this walk we spotted:- Pee Wee, Superb fairy Wren, Black faced Cuckoo Shrike, Bell Minor, Currawong, Wedge tailed Eagle, Noisy Minor, Australian MAgpie, Striated Thornbill, Grey  fantail, Whipbird, Lyrebird, Brown Tree Creeper and Willy Wagtail.

 

Stop Press:- I did not announce that my  favorite car- the Landcruiser Troopcarrier was sold a few weeks ago, (photos of her to the right). Sadly, on the last  major trip she had some mechanical failures and I felt it was appropriate to find another vehicle. It carried Maalie and myself though the outback, and my  family  on numerous trips into the desert. It was the topic of conversation at pubs too (  Jim  will verify this) because it was so COOL! It  will be sadly  missed. But! I  have bought a Landcruiser tray back turbo diesel which I  will make into a camper.  It went on trial today, and pulled through with  flying colours. Better fuel economy, better in difficult situations, and more comfortable with  its later model suspension. It's a welcome addition to  the family!  I am sure Maalie cannot wait to get on a plane and trial it!

Memories of Shetland

Maalie and "yours truly" leaving Aberdeen

Maalie recently blogged about Shetland, and it evoked some very fond memories that I wanted to share with you.
In 2002 I was in the UK for a number of reasons. I had a singing career that had potential, and with the help of Cathay Pacific, Sylvie Guillem , London Review magazine I was to have an audition with the Royal Opera.

The hut which was home for those days.
Sadly a health issue arose in 2001 and I had to concentrate on it, the doctors telling me I might have cancer, and so the audition was cancelled. Yet against doctors advise, I went ahead with the trip.
Frankly I did not know what to expect. Jim had helped me with a number of things and I thought it would be nice to meet.

Heading out in the Zodiac, Maalie at the helm!
So , after 38 plus hours in the plane, and a trip to Aberdeen I meet Jim for the first time.

 I am going to say this- Shetland was, and still is, the most memorable experience of my life. With like minded people, who loved birds, opera , ballet, beer.. it was a mix of the most amazing experiences that I shall take with me wherever I go. Jim became an instant friend. A deep friendship, not formed in just trivial things, but across a range of issues, and shared experiences.
The Rumble. I am  a member!

With my time spent there, I discovered the world, opened my mind to other feelings and tastes, of ideas and attitudes- it was incredible. When I left I shed a tear. The doctors told me I may not make it to 50 years of age, my singing fell in a heap, yet I had something more valuable, more precious happened when I was there- I formed friendships. The most valuable gift on earth.
Big Dave and Maalie heading out for research.

There is too much to write here. I hope you will enjoy the photos, and if you want to share more, there will be further posts.

Wentworth Falls

Wentworth Falls.

Another attractive area in the Blue Mountains is Wentworth Falls. As an extension of the Valleys of the Waters walk I did a month ago, and with the weather quite ordinary, I was determined to get out of the house and explore the varieties of tracks that this area has to offer.


Red Browed Firetail Finch

Commencing at the West Street, I took the Short Cut Track, which is a fire trail, to the Conservation Hut. The weather was foul yet I still spotted Red Browed Firetail Finch and White Throated Tree Creeper as well as Yellow Rumped Thornbill and Wattlebird.

From the Conservation Hut to the falls themselves is a short, brisk walk with spectacular views across the Jamison Valley. Wentworth Falls is in two sections with superb views from the top, the centre and the bottom.


Steep Stairs

The track then crosses the falls and a well defined, steep, rock staircase takes you to the middle section of the falls. These steps again remind me of a Tolkien adventure. Further along you can turn left and walk to the bottom of the falls- the advise from National Parks is only if you are experienced. Whilst I feel that its not too difficult, there are plenty of tourists who could find themselves stressed by being inappropriately equipped- I saw one guy in UGG boots...


Mt Solitary above the clouds.

Its a fantastic walk, as the track follows the cliff line, under waterfalls, over bridges and ladders. Following the track which hugs the cliff face until it reaches Vera falls as mentioned in a previous post. There are quiet dark forests, exposed rocks and cliffs all within easy reach.


More water falls.

There are many tracks and diversions, however follow the advise of the National Parks signs, Avoid the tracks that are marked "Exerienced Walkers Only", and you can get fresh air, great views, exercise regardless of the conditions! Walk distance about 8km.

Birds seen:- New Holland Honey eater, Eastern Spinebill,Red Browed Firetail Finch, White Throated Tree Creeper, Wattlebird, Yellow Tufted Honey Eater, Currawong, Grey Butcherbird, King Parrot, Bell Minor,

WW2 Jeep photos.

I took a photo of the snorkel hole- used when jeeps were off loaded onto a beach and traveled underwater....




I then moved around towards the front


and put the roof on and....

had a beer.

Neats Glen, Grand canyon, Evans Lookout.

Evans Lookout Views
This is a walk I had not done since 1977! With the weather being erratic, ( variations of temperature during the day 9-19 and back again ), and a suggestion of sleet, it was time to get out and explore.
This walk is fabulous, there is no other word to describe it. Whilst the Grand Canyon bares no resemblance to the one in America, it is a walk that takes you through waterfalls, beside the canyon that in many spots you cannot see the bottom, under cliff overhangs , through tunnels, and back to the top where the contrasting view is spectacular.

Across Creeks
Again, this is a walk which can lead you into the Blue Gum forest, if you care. An easy grade, yet good shoes and water are essential.
Getting there is easy. From Sydney take the Great Western Highway, pass Katoomba and passing the famous Hydro Majestic hotel. Here the highway crosses the railway. A few km on there is a road to the right, clearly sign posted. Follow this until you reach the car park.

Behind waterfalls.
I had forgotten most of the walk, however I did recall the track being wet for most of the way. Good boots and keeping an eye on finding a good grip is essential. The National Parks are doing a great job upgrading the track, as many of the ladders and walk ways were showing signs of wear and tear. Keep an eye out for the areas of work, as some of the rocks are loose.
How can I describe it all to you? A scene from Lord of the Rings is the only way. Tall fern trees, mossy rocks, cool and dark. I would think that much of the canyon would never see full sun light. In summer icy cold rock pools would be a treat.



Into dark tunnels
Here we encountered a Rock Warbler that was not frightened in the least. In fact when I stopped, I though it was going to jump on my shoe! I can only assume it had a nest nearby.
Finally reaching the bottom you can either continue down and walk to Blue Gum forest, or take the ascent to Evans Lookout. Being a day walk we chose the look out.
Miles of mossy walking tracks
Here, step after step is encountered and like the Valley of the Waters its important to maintain a pace that you can handle without "blowing up" i.e. becoming fatigued. When you reach the top, the contrast is truly spectacular. Lockleys Pylon, Mt Hay, Mount Banks and Perrys Lookdown can all be observed from another perspective.


Rock overhangs

Again, in pausing we encountered a Lyrebird. Happy to scratch like a chook, only a few feet away from us. The walk back to our car was only 800m, and after 2 1/2 hours Rosalie and I agreed this was truly one of the better walks.


Rare Blue Sky
If you are ever in Sydney and would like information on walks., just drop me an email.

Subaru WRX STI

All my friends know I am a sucker for cars. They do not have to be fast for me to love 'em but they do have to have something "unique". In previous posts I have listed some of my favorites.
However, one of my absolute favorites is my 2006 Subaru WRX STi C spec which is enhanced with upgrades. This car is not only quick, but "bullet" proof, and good on fuel. I think its the last real STi and has as much ( if not too much ) power that i need to get me to and from work.

I have included a clip that you might find enjoyable... this is "off the chain" !!! Ken Block is an amazing driver. This is an Sti at its best

Cattai National Park

The Hawkesbury River. From the wharf.

Highlights: "The Cattai Farm area, originally a land grant to First Fleet assistant surgeon Thomas Arndell, features Arndell's 1821 cottage, historic grain silos and ruins of a windmill believed to be the oldest industrial building in NSW. In a separate section, nearby Mitchell Park features a variety of plant communities, including rare riverine rainforest."

So says the National Parks and Wildlife information site. Its a beautiful park, with lots of domestic facilities and runs right beside the Hawkesbury River. I had last visited this park when Maalie was in Australia back in 2004. This visit was a little different as I was there the cheer on my son who was in the zone (area) cross country races.


The Troopie hiding behind one of the superb BBQ facilities.

Having come 3rd in his age group in the school, (with no training I might add), he was selected to represent his school in this highly organized event..

As I have said in previous posts, the Hawkesbury region was the First Fleets food basket and remained so for many many years, supplying the Sydney markets with fresh fruit and vegies. The area is a a flood plain, and as such soils are rich and fertile.

David in amongst it! 

The drive to Cattai National park is easy- Head west from Sydney towards Windsor, and take a right hand turn to Pitt Town. About 12km from this town is the park- clearly marked. Because if its historical significance, the park is well maintained, with shelters suitable for big groups, toilet amenities and pre booked camp sites are available. Bird life is immense, with Long Lagoon nearby, its a regular haunt for avid birders...


One of the many water birds. ( not my  photo)

However today I was focused on David, who despite a very bad cold ran about 45th out of 125 boys.

Well done David!