WALK: MT FROME MUDGEE from the Eastern side. 17th November 2019
Fifteen walkers started out on what looked like a foggy morning, Mount Frome was shrouded in a thick covering of smoke. A quick search on ‘Fires near me’ identified that the lower Wollemi National Park was responsible, and the devastated area had reached as far as Glen Davis. Our walk this month was a local affair, smoke in our eyes and lungs was to be our only inconvenience.
Starting out early to avoid the heat of the day we set out to Bill’s property to access the northern route to the top of the mountain. After a quick morning tea on his back veranda we headed to the bottom yard, through
the last gate we would use today and into the bush.
Walking along the ridge line was easy, through the open gum and pine trees. The ground was bare, and the trees were showing signs of the extended drought. We didn’t have a path to follow but we knew the direction to head in. Pushing past tree limbs, sometimes open ground and through the neighbours’ fences we arrived at the steep slopes of Mt Frome.
Scrambling up the scree of rocks, slipping on the loose ground, we quickly elevated our position to the summit. The smoke had cleared in time to welcome us to the views. Having a break, adding a stone to the growing cairn, discussing the next peak to be conquered, taking photos, making a quick painting were among the activities the fifteen of us participated in. 
Down the north-eastern side of the ridge line we completed the round trip in about four hours covering approximately seven and a half kilometers. No injuries were recorded despite the many slips, especially on the way down. A good time was had by all and after lunch we parted ways … until next time.
Report by Leader: Glen Hill Special thanks: Bill Kempton Images: Glen Hill, Leo Boersma, Kim McCloughlan
