Koonung Bushwalking Club (KBC) headed off for our biennial trip to Sydney in late March. Out of the 16 participants we had 6 members who hadn’t been with us previously. These trips have been offered by the club since 2012.
We stayed at the YHA in the Rocks. Our location was close to Circular Quay, and the rooftop gave us amazing views over the harbour taking in the Opera House and the Bridge. We had a great seat for fireworks and one night were treated to a spectacular show with thunder and lightning.
The only negative experience at the YHA was a 2am evacuation for a fire alarm!
As usual we walked on 4 days and had an optional sightseeing trip on the other day.
Day 1 we walked 12 km from Mosman Bay to Balmoral. A bushy walk very close to home with spectacular views of the harbour. It included a visit to the Royal Australian Navy memorial and the historical military sites at Middle Head.
Day 2 we split into two groups. One group led by Karen Sheedy, headed to various spots around the harbour including Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden and some enjoyed a swim. The others took the train up to Mount Kuring-Gai to do a challenging walk along Cowan Waters up to Berowra. Only downside were the leeches.
Day 3, 13 of us headed to Cockatoo Island which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the middle of Sydney harbour. We had an interesting tour as the island was formerly a convict penal establishment and naval shipyard.
Day 4 we travelled 3 stops on the train to walk around Balls Head, Berry Island and Greenwich. It was amazing to be in native bushland so close to the city. Throughout the walk of 10km we had outstanding harbour views.
Day 5 we headed up to Collaroy to walk 11.5 km down to Manly. The spectacular coastal views along the way were highlighted by the dark skies which were with us most of the day. Although rain was expected we managed to get home without getting wet. We were joined most of the day by walkers on the Coast Trek Sydney Walk. Mainly young girls raising money for Beyond Blue who were walking 50,30 or 20kms.
As usual our final day ended up with a celebratory dinner at the local pub. It was a wonderful and stimulating time together time. Thanks to Anne Fyffe, supported by her husband Wayne. Anne organised and led this excellent Sydney base camp experience.
