Thursday, 8 September 2022

Lewisham to Red Ochre Beach - 6 September 2022

The sunny weather  was a pleasant change from the previous few weeks - must be Spring.

Today's walk starts at Gwynns Point and then heads off towards Red Ochre Beach.  Depending on the tide the intention is to keep to the sand and rocks as much as possible. Along the way we are expecting to see lots of wonderful coastal scenery.

 Chris has kindly volunteered to be the photographer today - thanks Chris

 


On the trail just above the beach




The sign pointed to the upper path when in fact we actually wanted to use the lower track .. so back we go



Continuing along



This looks like a good spot for morning tea

 

After morning tea we continued on towards Dodges Ferry.  With a favourable tide there was lots of sand to walk on. There was evidence of erosion all along the walk and in numerous places it was obvious locals had erected home made walls in an attempt to slow this down.



We reach China Creek and Chris can be seen lurking on the banks (with his mirror image) while the rest of us are patiently waiting to have our photo taken.






A striking plant in full bloom (perhaps Aloe Marlothii)





You never know what is around the next corner.  Lorna and Stephen try out the furniture!


Last section before we reach the Dodges Ferry pier


Leaving Dodges behind we make our way around Tiger Head Point






Lunch.  This natural circle of rock with lots of seating and in bright sunlight was the perfect spot.


It was a bit of a task to get everyone moving again, but we soldiered on and shortly after reached Red Ochre Beach.  This was our turn around point and therefore started to head back.


 

 A playground and it's no surprise to anyone that Lorna has to test out the equipment.



Bob's favourite sort of dog - doesn't move, doesn't poop, doesn't bite and doesn't bark!!!

 

The tide is now coming in - those walking on the sand shortly after this photo was taken had to scramble onto the rocks if they wanted to keep their feet dry. 

 


 

 

A memorial to Ralph Dodge whom the area is named after.  The blog from an previous walk (2017) provides more historical information.

 

 

I wasn't sure what this sign meant but all was revealed a short time later as we reached a small watercourse. When we passed it this morning it was very shallow, however now with the incoming tide it provided more of a challenge.  Margaret was looking for the easiest crossing when the sand collapsed and she gracefully slipped into the knee deep water. As can be seen the rest of us were busy providing lots of useful advice until she managed to scramble out.  Eventually Lyn and Margaret took off their shoes and waded across.

 




 

Putting their shoes back on once their feet had dried


This house continues to amaze with the collection of thongs


Princess Royal came to grief in this area

Final section of today's walk with some of the coastal scenery on display.  Much to our delight while walking along here a pod of 5 dolphins was cruising in the water close to the shore.  Unfortunately they weren't in the mood for posing so Chris wasn't able to get a good photo.








Today 13 walkers covered the 11kms in 4.5hours. The bright sunshine made for a leisurely walk which was enjoyed by all.

Click here to download GPX file.







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