Twelve club members enjoyed the granite rocks and spotted gums in fine calm weather. A large granite slab with fine views of the upper Buckenbowra provided a superb lunch spot.

A feature of the walk was discovering the wildlife in the forest – Antechinus, Yellow Bellied Glider and a Death Adder. The latter kept the walkers well and truly on their toes.

The remains of the original Nelligen to Braidwood Road were also inspected en route. 

When Ian Barnes leads a walk, in addition to the social and physical benefits, is the extra dimension of his information and insight.

On 14 July, as usual, he gave us the benefit of his extensive knowledge of the ecology, geology, flora and fauna of our forests.

On his walks, he generously explains the effects of the various soil types on the species of trees and shrubs, and subsequently, the animals.

While doing so, the bonus sighting of a small mammal allowed him to identify it as an Antechinus, and tell us some of their life history.

Further on, he showed us the V-shaped scars on the bark of a tree and described how the gliders scar the bark to feed on the sap.

That the scars on this tree were highly unusual only added to the interest. It was a privilege to be there.