Hiltaba Day 7- 29/5/21- Tree Planting and Rockholes. Barbara Hardy Walk

This day started with some tree planting of local species near the shearer’s quarters. Fifty one trees were planted into the prepared holes. Thanks to Kathryn for much of the hole digging.

Most of the group headed out to do the Barbara Hardy walk. Although the walk is only 6 km in length, it involves quite a bit of rock hopping.

We started in quite a cool, stiff breeze. As we climbed the hill the breeze was noticeable. Chunky red rocks made the climb tricky as we picked each foot placement. I was very glad to have my walking sticks with me.

We found a spot just before the summit and sheltered from the wind behind a rocky outcrop for morning tea with a view. Then it was on to the summit, where we took a group photo in the blustery breeze before heading onwards.

The hike back down the hill was quite tricky in places, with some slippery rock surfaces with pebbles of rock to slip on and some stony places where you needed to watch your footing. There were stunning views down to Lake Acraman in the far distance and across the landscape and many dramatic rocky outcrops to admire.

We reached the car park in approximately 6 km and drove on to an area of flat rock with rock holes, where we enjoyed our lunch before driving home to the quarters. Two rock holes here are covered over with wood to protect them. Rocks around the edge complete the picture.

Wombats were a feature of the day again, with many spotted beside their burrows as we drove, and many burrows to avoid beside the tracks. They make quite a driving hazard.

Later in the afternoon we were invited over to the homestead, where we enjoyed scones and a cuppa on the veranda and then a tour of the impressive house. Those who hadn’t already seen it walked up to take a look at the embankment.