Students caught the train at Dapto and traveled to Otford where the expedition began with a steep climb up to the coast road. At the top the students made the first entries in their log books, recording elevation, time, and observations about the area. From there is was on to the beginning of the track itself.

We made frequent stops to rest and replenish our energy supplies with all manner of snack foods, always closely accompanied by a myriad of flies, as can be seen on Ms Law's hat. Insect repellent failed to be effective against them after about 10 minutes. We saw evidence of several different animal species along the way, and observed ants and stink beetles in abundance doing what they do to fill their days.

North Era beach had nice areas for pitching our tents, a stream close by, and two composting toilets. Unfortunately, some inconsiderate campers had been there before us and filled one of the toilets and shed up with rubbish; plastic and glass bottles, plastic bags, clothes, cans and all sorts of stuff that they should have carried out with them. The other toilet was still operational (thankfully) so we were able to be civilized.

The first to arrive at North Era were fortunate to see about 10 wild deer grazing on the flat and base of the hills around the camping area. While we prepared our food we spotted 3 deer on top of the ridge we had to climb the next morning.

The day was fairly uneventful until tea time when Jeanette's gas cooker caught fire, and there was much excitement putting it out. Considerable damage was sustained and it was decided that it was safest not to attempt a re-light. Just as well most of the rest of us had gas cookers too, so no-one went without hot food that evening. Nick seemed to have an endless pantry in his pack, a point of great interest to the rest of us, especially Jeanette.

The students seemed to have boundless energy restored after tea because they talked and laughed late into the night.

Day 2

Destination: Wattamolla
Distance: approximately 8 km

A beautiful morning greeted us as the sun rose over the sea. This was to be a hotter day than yesterday so the demands on water would be greater. In preparation for this event we had collected extra water from the stream the night before and used purifying tablets to kill off any nasties that might be lurking in it.

After a hearty breakfast we packed up our tents etc and got ready to go. Ms. Law made sure the students had their log books up to date and led a discussion on low impact camping. As with the start yesterday, we began the walk with a steep climb, but what fantastic views from the top!

Below are a couple of photos taken at Falls, about halfway between Garie Beach and Wattamolla. Here we were able to refill our nearly empty water bottles, check out some of the small wildlife, and take a natural refreshing shower in the fresh water blown back up over the falls by the strong winds from the sea, about 60 metres below.