A Hot and lonely walk at Chambers Gully 28/1/2020

Due to a misunderstanding I didn’t go on the walk with the Four Seasons today up Chambers Gully. 

There had been some discussion via email about the walk being cancelled due to hot weather, and it had been decided, finally, that there would be a shortened version offered – but I didn’t get the memo.  I should learn to read my email myself.

In the end,  Zita sent a photo from Cleland café, making it clear that there was a walk happening.  Then she sent information about the orchid they had found, and that did it.

With the aid of her helpful directions I headed off to walk the “10 minutes up the track” to see the orchid.  (I had omitted to apply extra sunscreen, change out of my shorts or into my walking shirt and walking shoes, but I did have my hat, water and camera). It’s lucky my daily moisturiser has built in sunscreen.

It turned out to be a bit further than 10 minutes, but was a very enjoyable stroll along.  Not the same as enjoying the chatter of the walking group, but time to ponder other thoughts as I walked , and no need to worry about slowing down the group (or catching up) if I stopped to take photos.

I enjoyed stopping to read the history and other information signs, admire the bark of the trees and wait for the little birds to settle so that I could take a photo of them. 

When I finally located the orchid (a pink hyacinth orchid) I had time to take photos to my heart’s content before I turned and retraced my steps.

I didn’t know what these birds were, but since I’ve got home, I have had a chance to check with my resources (thanks Ross and Jan) and learn that they are mature (hiding) and juvenile (in the open) red browed finches. (also called red browed firetails) The juveniles don’t have the red brows yet.

I also enjoyed watching the little honeyeaters playing and chirping away.

And, of course, seeing a pink hyacinth orchid for the first time. These grow to about knee high, flower in summer and have no leaves at all.

No matter if it is the same track I have walked before, I still enjoy finding the little surprises along the way.

Thanks to Doug and Zita (and, of course, Trevor- who patiently waited at home as he was not able to make the trip with his dodgy achilles tendon) for the heads up and encouragement.