A clear blue sky, and the Sun shone brightly, as a group of 26 walkers gathered for this first time walk. A Fearless and capable Judy was chomping at the bit to get started, at this, her first time walk leader. However, briefly, a small ripple of consternation occurred amongst the group as Judy described a part of the walk which included a section 250kms long! We departed from the Wooli Tavern car park a couple of minutes past 9:00.
The day was already warm and their were already enquiries about whether there were opportunities for swimming. The early part of the trail took us along the old Airstrip, now unused and out of action for approximately 25 years. Turning left the trail led us through streets in the western section of Cape Woolamai, then into the coastal sand dunes and scrub. Reaching the spectacular Colonaides beach below, an easy walk along the firm sand was enjoyed while some of us observed the columnar formations in the cliff face.
A stretch of road north traversed the next section, taking the group past the Vietnam Veterans War Museum. Onwards, a quick crossing of the main Cowes road, we walked along Churchill Road till reaching the shoreline and the smallbay. Here Rhyll could be observed in the middle left distance. A well earned morning tea break was taken, sheltering from the warmer sun, in the shade beside the water overlooking Churchill Island to the right.
The next section of the walk included Fisher's wetland, a haven for wildlife. A photo opportunity arose at the Churchill Island bridge before continuing and completing the circuit returning to the Wooli Tavern car park.
Lunch was the final stop provided by Judy and David in the shade of the Banksias beside the house. A small celebration occurred as it was revealed that this special day was Gayle's birthday! Cakes were in order and an enjoyable day was followed by a rewarding lunch.
Amongst the group there are none more experienced than Marg. In comparison, many of us are relative newcomers. Another revelation was then revealed to the newer members - they are not familiar with Marg's preferred name! So, what is it? ... Did you know that Wally is the preferred option, the familiar version of Waldron!!
Distance walked was approximately 9.3kms. The route taken include the old Airstrip, Collonaides Beach then north along veterans Rd, Churchill Rd with a circuit returning to the Wooli Tavern.
Patrticipants: Judy O'Connell (Leader) Anne Moorhouse, Marg Waldron, Graham Clements, Wendy Page, Ed Jensen, Gayle Mcharg, David Vaughan, Barbara Burton, Ian Mayer, Heather Cruikshank, Les Cruikshank, Joy Downes, Ellen Porter, Julie James, Pili Flores, Robert Harrison. Colin Graham, Jenny Clarke, Michelle Carr, Karen Carpentier, Tina Couper, Joane Harland, Sherran Howlett, Maree Mills, Magaret McIntosh.
Davaid Vaughan, author and support crew
