Grand Canyon & Rhododendron Gardens -“Double Deal adventure”. (Reports)

Date: Sunday 30.10.2022 Walk Leader: Bill Webster conducted a reccy 25.10.22. Leader(s): Grand Canyon track -Blue Mtns N/P with Bill Webster.

Grand Canyon Report: “We set off from Mudgee with (8) walkers for the ‘Grand Canyon walk’ – John and Joby Mitchell, Ivy and Nev Higgs, Bill Kimpton, Eric Caswell, Feroz Wani and myself. We stopped at the Blackheath Rhododendron Gardens for morning tea and Mel Trethowan joined us. (9) walkers. After parking (parking area) midway between Neates Glen and Evans Lookout as the Lookout was closed for upgrading. A briefing was given including safety concerns which covered slippery ground, uneven ground, about 350m vertical descent and ascent, snakes (very low risk), tunnel (dark and uneven ground), numerous river crossings (slippery and chance for wet feet), overhangs on track (care needed to be taken especially if wearing headgear) and passing other walkers on the narrow track.

The walk commenced along the track to Neates Glen, with a number of flowering waratahs, and we descended to Greaves Creek and along the creek to the “Rotunda” (a large overhang and Aboriginal occupation shelter, about 3ks from the start) for lunch, arriving there about 1145am. We set off after lunch at about 1230pm. The walk was spectacular, with great views across to the Grose Valley and beyond, helped by great weather. We covered about 7ks on the walk as well as the vertical up and down! Thanks to all members who participated.” Cheers Bill Webster.

Note: The group communicated by 2 way radio (illustrating the importance of this means of communication). Members assisted as one member bumped her head on an overhang and required a lengthy walk out. (Joby all good now)!

Campbell Rhododendron gardens report: Elly Rands. “We, Lorraine, Monique, Pattie and Elly set out from Mudgee at about 8.30am for a leisurely drive to Blackheath and The Campbell Rhododendron Gardens. There we met up with the group that were tackling the Grand Canyon and Colin & Adrian joined us for us easy stroll around the gardens.

But first we needed a well-deserved coffee and a scone with jam & cream at the Lodge. There are over 2000 Rhododendrons as well as azaleas, waratahs, camelias, maples and lots more exotic species. It was a sunny day, not too hot and we thoroughly enjoyed the walk amongst the wonderful display of flowers. Lunch was at one of the many picnic tables scattered through the gardens. Great day in lovely company to enjoy the great outdoors.” E. Rands.