Page 83 - 80 Walks by 80 Leaders 2

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Date: 26 May 2019
Par�cipants: Colin Reid, Pamela Reid, Adrian Jones, Julie Jones, Colleen Loudon, Lydia Chua, Helena Smith,
Doreen Handy, Graeme Rollings, Paul Webster, Kumiko Suzuki, prospec�ves Susan Beck, Bob Crispin

Great views were had as we walked through the heath on
the 50-minute, rela�vely flat, walk to Lockleys Pylon. We
ascended Lockleys Pylon and took in the views of Mt Hay
and Mt Banks as well as the eucalypt forests of the Grose
Valley.

National Parks inform us that the Pylon is named a�er J.G.
Lockley, ‘a journalistwho supported conservation efforts to
save the Blue Gum Forest from logging in the 1930s'.

From there we made our way to Du Faur Head, requiring
minor rock scrambling where long legs would have been
most helpful. As an aside, Eccleston Du Faur played a major
role in establishing Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Walk descrip�on: The wind was strong, and care increased significantly over the years. Having
Mt Hay Road to Lockley Pylon then descend to Blue Gum was required as we passed enjoyed an early lunch we retraced our steps.
Forest and return the same way. Some easy rock scrambling close to cliff edges. We The steep climb up on the loose rocks, with
with loose rocks to contend with on both descent and enjoyed morning tea before some minor exposure, tested our stamina and
ascent. Picturesque views. Map: Katoomba, Mount Wilson star�ng our 500m descent, in was not enjoyed by all. However, we all safely
just under 2 kilometres to the returned with the flat walking on the last leg
Report: Blue GumForest via Shortridge greatly appreciated.
Thirteen intrepid walkers (including prospectives Susan Pass. Magnificent views all the
Beck and Bob Crispin) started the trek from the car park on way. My thanks to Adrian Jones for going tail on the
Mt Hay Road in drizzling rain and cold conditions. The descent to Blue Gum and to those, including
On reaching the bo�om we
weather soon turned fine, and the sun came out making for Paul Webster, who provided support and
made our way to Acacia Flats
a great day. encouragement to others on the return leg.
across the fallen log over
Fortunately, therecently gradedMt HayRoad made the20- Gove�s Creek. The large stand A great day out with a great group of walkers.
minute car trip from Leura to the track head an easy drive of Eucalyptus deanei trees
and avoided having to help stuck cars as had occurred on remains a wonderful sight,
the recce two weeks earlier. although the undergrowth has

Report by: Colin Reid 73 Photos: Pamela Reid