A car shuffle was organised before the start then we headed off over the Hornibrook Bridge which is due for demolition early next year. The weather was great for a stroll and some of us had fish & chips and steak sandwiches at Woody Point. Had a walk around the ship wreck while the drivers were getting the cars organised. A great day was had by all.

Ships Stern is the one of the longest walks we do. We included Carraboomba Rock so the walk distance is over 20km. The walk has attractively variable terrain and flora. Especially Hidden Valley. The southerly and easterly views where spectacular and the company as usual was excellent. Most had sore feet by the end of the day. We then après walked at the New Binna Burra Café on Coffee, cake and various treats.

A fine morning saw 11 of us meet at the Currumbin Rock Pools and after organising the cars, drive the final leg to Mt Cougal NP.

It’s an easy walk up past the Cougals Cascade to the old sawmill, and then it was down into the creek to rock hop up to the escarpment. Although the creek’s flow was reduced from a few weeks ago, all the pools were still full, so numerous crossings were necessary; all were done without incident. It’s a delightful, true rainforest creek and a couple of breaks were taken so it could be enjoyed.

The twin falls at the escarpment both had a reasonable volume coming over them. Although I haven’t climbed above them I assume there’s an island up above the edge, dividing the flow into two. Another break here ensured we were able to enjoy this unique spot.

The steep climb up the slope to the logging track was a real exertion, however it was completed in quick time; everyone being in a hurry to get it over with I think. From there it was an easy stroll, through the fern and palm groves, back down to the sawmill.

It started raining about 1 km before the mill, which brought out all the lovely wet bush aromas for us. Although the roof, sheltering the mill, wasn’t put there for our benefit, we took advantage of it and lunch was taken under it. Then it was to the cars and home via, of course, the Crystal Cottage for refreshments.

Eight walkers met at the Binna Burra NP information centre on a beautiful clear morning, but the ground still wet underfoot after the storms of the day before.

We set off down the hill to the entrance to the Lower Bellbird Circuit. After crossing the paddocks we entered the forest to the constant calls of many bellbirds.

After a short while we passed through a dell where normally there is a wonderful display of epiphytes but now everything had been razed by bushfire. Moving on we spotted a Regents Bowerbird.

Eventually we reached the Ship’ Stern Cct and turned up the short path to the foot of Ballanjui Falls.

At this point most people picked up a few Leeches. The falls had a reasonable amount of water flowing.

Most of us were pleased to visit this spot after visiting the top of the falls on our last walk.

From here we climbed up towards Binna Burra stopping at Yangahla lookout for lunch. The March flies were in much abundance, plus the usual Currawong waiting for any leftovers.

From there we proceeded to Bellbird lookout and out through Bellbird clearing to the main road and thence back to the cars.

Finally, we drove back up to Binna Burra café for well earned refreshments.

Friday night’s deluge caused a couple of cancellations and quite a few doubts amongst the 7 walkers who fronted up. Although appointed leader it was a collaborative leadership, as I had never walked Daves Creek before. As with all good Generals, I lead from the rear.

Apart from breaking out the umbrellas and jackets for 2 minor showers, it was a delightful walk in either sunshine, or light cloud.

After doing the walk I can see why Daves Creek would be the most popular walk at Binna Burra, a good variety of flora types, reasonable level and not too far. To be different and due to the speed we were walking, we did the circuit in a clockwise direction and it was enjoyed by all.

Although every gully was filled with a glorious chorus of frogs; all with a very soft, sweet croak, in vain we searched for a glimpse of one. Seemingly inches from where the sound emanated, we still couldn’t see them.

A detour around the Rainforest Loop when back near the car park, allowed us to enjoy the abundance of different Fungi and a Mum, Dad and Baby Pademelon.

Numerous de-leeching stops were required and while I don’t know about the others, I was carrying 3 Ticks when I got home. I don’t know whether this was from the Daves Creek track, or my walking through Witches Falls Park on the way home.

After lunch in the picnic area and the usual delights in the Kiosk, it was home.