Reports
Reports on Previous Activities
Half Day Holiday Wander - 30 December 2014
On Tuesday 30 December 2014 a group of eighteen keen SCOGers joined David for a walk around some of the interesting areas on the western side of the city.
It was good to see that everyone still had some energy after the busy season of Christmas celebrations!
Starting at Central Station we walked through Prince Alfred Park, which used to house an ice-skating rink, now beautifully landscaped with gardens and public areas. Proceeded on to some of the back streets of Surry Hills and past the Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Redfern.
Next we walked through Darlington and saw the fine old Darlington School building, which is now in the grounds of Sydney University. We then walked through some very interesting parts of Sydney Uni. There was great contrast in building styles with 19th century buildings side by side with the ultra modern structures. Highlights included the huge main quadrangle surrounded by impressive stone buildings and expansive lawns. The area was very quiet with few people around due to the Christmas holidays.
Then we walked past RPA Hospital, through part of Camperdown and arrived at what used to be the Royal Alexandria Hospital for Children and which has been redeveloped as a major residential area. We stopped here for morning tea.
After this we walked down Orphan School Creek, in a quiet bushland area, which felt like an oasis in the inner city and a welcome contrast to all the surrounding development. This led on to a path near the old Harold Park Raceway and beside a canal. We saw a tramway bridge over Johnstons Creek as evidence of the trams that used to run in the area.
The Glebe Point foreshore was next including an interesting section of pathway only recently been extended. A highlight was the view of the original Glebe Island Bridge dwarfed under the massive structure of the Anzac Bridge.
We proceeded on to Ultimo and walked past the UTS buildings with their amazing modern architecture. After this we crossed Parramatta Road and arrived at the new ‘Central Park’ complex with it’s innovative vertical gardens, reticulated watering system and light controlling mirrors.
We finished the day with lunch in a pleasant outside area of the upstairs food court at ‘Central Park’. It was an enjoyable lunch with time to reflect on a great time shared with friends.
Thanks to David for organizing an excellent day out.
Tim Grieve
NEWCASTLE EXCURSION - Sunday 30 November 2014
You must be very keen to get up at 4:30am for a SCOG event? (Or slightly barmy!) But, two guys (from different locations) did just that, and joined another twelve of us to catch the 7:15am Sunday train out of Central bound for Newcastle. At almost 3 hours, this train ride is longer than SCOG would normally do for an activity. But, the journey is quite attractive – especially through Sydney’s leafy northern suburbs, and then the section through to Gosford with extensive bush and water views.
A couple of “train nuts” amongst us decided to do this trip to the historic Newcastle City rail terminus BEFORE the line is truncated further back - a decision of much controversy with whispers of improper processes and undue developer influence in the political sphere. Closure was due in a few weeks.
Our on-time arrival at Newcastle City station saw us step out into a warm, sunny day – well befitting the last day of Spring. First activity was the long spiral climb up the phallic-like Honeysuckle lookout tower. This gives a great overview of the heart of historic Newcastle, of the inner harbour and river entrance, of the original rail and maritime industrial precinct (now beautifully landscaped), and of the section of the rail corridor (likely) to be soon taken over by greedy developers.
This tower also marks the northern track-head of the 250km Great North Walk. The other end is at Circular Quay.
Our morning wander took us through the old downtown and up onto Cathedral Hill, then around the beach front (main beach, ocean pool and Nobbies beach), then up onto the distinctive Nobbies lookout at the mouth of the Hunter River. After our picnic lunch in a shady park behind the beach, we divided for separate activities. Some had a swim; some toured the heritage-listed Fort Scratchley (which is strategically located to protect Newcastle from invaders). Others took a wander down the revived riverfront to the old industrial buildings now housing the Newcastle Regional Museum and other activities, whilst some strolled on to the Regional Art Gallery to view an intriguing temporary exhibition by the artist Patricia Piccinini.
Mid-afternoon train departures saw our weary wanderers snoozing their way back to Sydney to be met by thunder-storms. A long, relaxing and enjoyable outing. Even those who had visited Newcastle before were impressed at the improvements and the opportunities this former mining and heavy-industry town now demonstrates.
IT'S WHALE WATCH SEASON - Kurnell to Cronulla - SATURDAY 5 JULY 2014
Saturday and a bright sunny winter's morning; ideal for walking Sydney 's magnificent coastline in the company of friendly people. Kurnell to Cronulla is a popular walk as we discovered at Cronulla station when we shared the bus to Kurnell with two other walking groups. Fourteen joined the SCOG walk; our leader David outlined the route and we set off whilst introducing ourselves to each other. Kurnell featured several historic sites related to Captain Cook's landing but David also suggested we see those events from the First Australians' perspective.
One of the great things about SCOG walks is the ease of making new friends whilst enjoying an outdoor activity. We ambled through the National Parks display centre, then up the track to the Whale Watching Lookout. Three NP volunteers were scanning the ocean for whales and although it was still mid morning, their tally was already 20 whales sighted. Looks promising! Although we didn't see any whales at the lookout, we'd scarcely walked ten minutes when two whales surfaced within a hundred metres of us. Perhaps they appreciated spectators because they frolicked close by for ten or more minutes before moving northward. We were buzzing as we resumed walking, this section tracked through coastal scrub, past inland freshwater lagoons and up gentle sand hills.
The lighthouse was the next stop, with great views up and down the magnificent coastline. David suggested we find a more sheltered location for lunch as the wind was strong around the headland. Nestled against the sand hills, lunch was a welcome break especially as the walk had enhanced our appetites. It was also a chance to chat further whilst enjoying the sunshine and coastal ambiance.
On resuming the walk, the expansive Cronulla beach stretched way into the distance yet we could see our destination at its southern end. A brisk sea breeze and soft sand tested our fitness on these last few kilometres yet with surfers, fishermen and walkers sharing the beach with us, no one complained. By mid afternoon we arrived at Cronulla, perhaps feeling pleasantly tired yet also buoyed by an enjoyable walk amidst pleasant company. We divided into two groups, one to adjourn to a local coffee shop, the other dashing for the train where we chatted until our respective destinations. Thanks David, for organising and leading. It was a great day out.
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This is Doug's report on the Loftus to Bundeena walk - Saturday 13 April 2013
The gods smiled. It was perfect weather for a good day's walk, and Loftus to Bundeena was just that. Our leader, David, took us through the many topographical regions we met, with his usual knowledge and aplomb. Morning tea at Audley was followed by a stiff climb to the heights, then the descent for lunch at the beautiful waterfall and swimming hole known as Winifred Falls. The afternoon - now quite warm - saw clear crisp views of the panorama from Bondi Junction, past the City to Chatswood - the dreaming spires of Camelot in the far far distance. Bundeena was reached via the Basin, the lushness of an unspoilt bush and the lovely Port Hacking. The ferry to Cronulla was a part of old Sydney (I love you!) now almost gone. A fast train on the new duplicated line from Cronulla to Sutherland ran us home ere twilight. A mixed group of walkers, with some new faces (welcome!) thoroughly enjoying their day in the bush.
Mardi Gras Walk to Burning Palms - Wednesday 26 February 2013
7:15am. Main concourse at Central Station. Three lovely but lost-looking London lads approach me and ask, "are you connected with the gay bushwalk?" Now the shorts, boots and back-pack may have suggested that I was a bushwalker. But, how did they determine that I was a GAY bushwalker? (Never did find out!)
SCOG's long tradition of a pre-Mardi Gras walk especially for the benefit of visitors continued. Fine, warm day; initially cloudy, then sunny. Twenty-five of us headed south on the train including visitors from UK, Philippines, USA, Canada, Germany, Malaysia, and China, as well as from Perth.
Alan, our leader, had us a bit anxious until he efficiently appeared just a few minutes before departure time. But he, and assistant leader – the very experienced Rogo, did a great job of guiding us along the tracks and marshalling the troops throughout the day.
The Burning Palms walk (at the bottom end of the Royal National Park) is an ideal walk for visitors due to its variety: bold hills & cliff-lines, steep valleys, dramatic headlands, spectacular coastal views, isolated beaches, ocean rock shelves, rock pools, eucalypt woodland with a diverse shrubby understorey, coastal scrub, open heathland, cabbage palm gullies, littoral forest, mountain streams, and the iconic Sydney sandstone outcrops.
Swims at a beach and the rock pools (we had both all to ourselves) were popular. The fact that some had `forgotten' swim wear was no deterrent.
The delicate English skin of one visitor looked rather rosy afterwards (hope you are OK, Denny). But the comments were all positive: "Brilliant"; "harder-than expected, but great"; "really enjoyed it"; "a lovely group of people"; "stunning scenery" ; and (on sighting the beach) "Wow".
(Written by David James)
Carlingford to West Ryde - Saturday 16 February 2013
Sydney is the only major city in Australia (and one of few around the world) where it is possible to do so many "bush walks" within the metropolitan area. A combination of topography, plus fore-sighted municipal fathers* who reserved extensive areas (*there were few women Councillors back then), means there are many areas of bushland through the suburbs.
Thanks to Kevin's excellent planning and leadership, this was an interesting time of discovery as we strolled between Carlingford and West Ryde railway stations. On a warm, slightly overcast day – with one brief shower – we enjoyed a walk through a number of attractive linear parks linked by mostly quiet and attractive suburban streets. Kevin introduced us to some of the history of the area and some remaining early buildings. There were a number of places where the vista ahead of us was like being in a mountain forest – rather than in the middle of suburbia. And three high points along the way gave great distant views to the southern highlands and the northern Illawarra areas.
The end point was a complete surprize for us. Hidden behind the West Ryde shops is a small gully which has, for almost 70 years, been the home of a club for hobbyists of miniature steam trains; real working steam trains just big enough to sit on. Our visit was timed for the once-a-month open day. Some of our group showed that they are really just `big kids' at heart by joining lots of little kids on a loop around the grounds on a mini-steam train.
An easy walk, with just a few steeper assents. Altogether, a delightful little outing.
(Written by David James)
Circular Quay to the Fish Markets - Saturday 14 January 2012
The overcast sky and forecast of passing showers may have discouraged some. (A lot of Sydney gay guys seem to be afraid of a little rain??!!) But, twelve hardy souls gathered, and we departed on cue. AND, we stayed dry and warm throughout. This walk took us above (literally) Circular Quay and The Rocks, before leading us into the quiet back streets and lanes of Millers Point. A veritable mine of early Sydney history. The contrast between the grime and labour-intensive early waterfront industry, and the modern adaptation of those same wharves and warehouses at Walsh Bay, is well illustrated through various historical interpretations in the area. Fascinating! The expansiveness of the Bangaroo development site (we were able to walk right through it) was an eye-opener to several. A quick zip across Darling Harbour (to avoid the tourists) brought us to Pyrmont Point where historic workers cottages are now juxtaposed with modern luxury apartment blocks. We descended from the Pyrmont escarpment via a hidden glade of pretty vegetation and down narrow streets to our final destination at the Fish Markets. Throughout the walk, we had enjoyed harbour views, and sights of the city skyline, from vantage points which were new to most of us. Right near the end, the huge list of artists at the historic, art deco ‘Festival Records’ building (c. 1939) reminded some of us of the celebrities we danced to as teenagers. Some elected to adjourn to a nearby pub for lunch, whilst the rest of us bought the obligatory fresh fish-&-chips and enjoyed them with shade and good company in a nearby park. “I’ve lived in Sydney for 20 years and never knew these interesting places existed”, was a typical comment. We all enjoyed the experience.
Bronte to Central via Mt Steel - Thursday 29 December 2011
Great day: mix of sun and light cloud, but not too hot. There were some early birds (a swim, or breakfast at one of the many nice cafes). But, most arrived for the 9:30am walk start. Ten of us headed away from the delightful Bronte Beach. The expansive lawn area (great for families) narrows and climbs past a waterfall fed by a permanent spring. Right on cue, the resident kookaburra family laughed as our leader explained their long-term residency. An amble through some back streets and lanes of Waverley disclosed a fascinating and eclectic mix of old and new architecture – some heritage listed. Then, as a contrast, we headed through the open Queens Park, and then the more expansive and vegetated Centennial Park. We learn a little of the history and the flora and fauna of both. We managed to see one of the park’s large resident eels – and heard about the remarkable journey they make to breed. A wander through the State Equestrian Centre was an eye-opener to most. We lingered on Mt Steel with its great city views, and then adjourned to a pub near Central Station for a late lunch. All agreed it was a most enjoyable outing.
Seven Bridges walk - Sunday 18th December 2011
A good attendance saw a party of eight depart Town Hall steps just after 09,30 in perfect walking weather , not cold , no sun. We headed down around the back to Pyrmont Bridge, our first bridge. Once across there we proceeded on around the new look Pyrmont past the revamped wharves, the new Star City, along the water front and around to Pyrmont Point Park. Walkers were saying they had not been there for years and it looked so differant. We carried on along Bowman Street and up the spiral walkway onto the Anzac Bridge. As we came down off the bridge we got a good view of Glebe Island where the big New Year's Eve concert starring the Boy George, Jamiriquoi and Pet Shop Boys will play. Might go back on the night, as it looked like a good view from the Bridge!
Crossing Victoria Road we were soon into Lilyfield and our morning tea stop at Easton Park. We took 20 minutes then walked through old terraces and heritage homes to Callan Park which looked magnificent, then through some urban bush in King George Park and across the new Iron Cove Bridge. To cut out the boring, noisy part, we took a bus to Hunters Hill, and were lucky to only have a wait of four minutes.
On arrival it was a short pleasant walk down to Fig Tree Bridge and across into Linley Point, then into some nice parkland and around Burns Bay towards Riverview and St. Iggy's College. Crossing their impressive grounds and buildings we arrived at our lunch spot at Tambourine Bay. Surprising there was nobody about, and we had the whole area to ourselves for a quite lengthy break of 35 minutes.
We carried on through Hodgson Park into bush-like Warraroon Reserve, trying to dodge River Road as much as possible we made it to Fleming Street and into the urban bush of Gore Creek Reserve coming out into the suburb of Greenwich along French Street we were quite soon into Smoothey Park. And then we emerged at Wollstonecraft Station. Four of our group decided to catch the train from there as they had dinner dates. The rest of us walked through streets with interesting City views to Waverton. Joe departed there to get back to Oatley for a roast dinner, lucky man! It was only 4.15pm so we had not had a hard walk, as we had gone a leisurely pace and apart from Lunch / morning tea we had several water stops.
David, Kevin and I went on along Union Street across Blues Point Road and down to Lavendar Bay and the relatively new (2007) park. It is delightful, following the harbour round to Luna Park. We elected to go through there and it was of course the busiest place we had been to all day, as we saw very few people around the Burbs, they were all in there! David left us at Milsons Point.
Kevin and I lingered under the Harbour Bridge listening to a Christian band for awhile then we adjourned to the quiet of Milsons Bay. After a rest I went for a foot soak then a refreshing swim. That brought me round no end, but we decided to give the seventh Bridge a miss, as the Harbour Bridge is worth walking once or twice but it is very noisy.
Eight agreed we had all had a good day out. Looking forward to the next walk of David's on the 29th. Have a great Xmas, don't eat too much Turkey! Cheers Alan X
Emu Plains to Doonside - Sunday 27th November 2011
A small but enthusiastic bunch of five set off from Emu Plains in warm but pleasant conditions, good breeze was blowing. Some of us met on the train, others on arrival. We headed off from the station past the shops and down towards the Nepean River. It was good to walk along the river bank before we crossed the small and grassy bank before bypassing the station and heading on towards Werrington Lakes.
We walked along shaded areas, and through green well kept streets, across reserves and some scrub before we reached the lakes after crossing a creek. It was time for lunch and we sat on benches in the shade, in the solitude, we found there were very few people about in the suburbs way out west, and it was pleasant just to walk through areas many of us had never been. I am sure we have all been up the Western Line and Blue Mountains but to get off the train and walk back gave us more of a feel for the Outer West.
After lunch we continued on through more well kept streets, scrub and parks to St. Marys; there we took a another longish break in the leafy main street for cold drinks, thankfully we were getting a lot of cloud cover by then and the breeze was still blowing. We crossed over the railway just past the station and headed towards Walhan and towards Mt. Druitt ( Ray said he had a T Shirt once, "I climbed Mt. Druitt" !)
At Mt. Druitt most called it a day with a coffee or cold drink at the station before the train home. Kevin Wuo and I decided to push on via the back of Rooty Hill into Doonside reserve and down to the Station. All agreed a good day out and something completely different. Hope to see yers on my next walk from Meadowbank Sunday 11th.
Regards, Alan Brennan
Examples of activities previously listed in the Diary
Saturday 11 August 2012
CYCLING - CENTENNIAL PARK
Felt, Silverback... they are the great brands of bicycles but you can bring along your supermarket brand bicycle to our excursions too. We cater to the non-Spandex mob (although you are welcome in Spandex just the same).
Join us for a leisurely hour or two where we will take an easy jaunt around the park a couple of times or so. It's that easy. All welcome, so come along, grab a friend if possible, and we will see you there.
Our morning begins by meeting at the Centennial Park gates at Paddington near the intersection of Moore Park Rd and Oxford St.
We will have a couple of diversions to see the eels and tortoises in the Lachlan Swamps and then return to our leisurely ride.
We finish off with an early brunch at the mobile cafe in the centre of the park where we can mix with Frontrunners gay athletes as they cool down with some food after their hectic morning run. A nice bunch of people they are.
By the way you can hire bikes within the park if you're without one.
Be sure to bring water with you and protection from the sun.
Meet at the gates (see above) at 8.45am
Please let me know you are coming by leaving a message on my mobile (Barry) 0413 66 00 68.
Also, you must call me by 7am on the day if inclement weather threatens for a decision on proceeding or not.
GRADE: Very easy
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Sunday 2 September 2012
GALA SPRING LUNCHEON IN THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
The Chalet Guesthouse and Restaurant - Medlow Bath
This year we will again, after the success of last year's luncheon, be enjoying our annual Blue Mountains Luncheon at The Chalet Guesthouse and Restaurant at Medlow Bath. This wonderful historic old guesthouse was built in 1892 and it is Heritage Listed. The place has a stunning atmosphere starting with the gorgeous reception lounge, through to the lovely wood-panneled grand dining room.
The owners, David and David, are thrilled to be able to welcome us and as the weather should still be cool enough, we can expect a hearty 3-course luncheon in this magic location.
The cost is just $40 per person for 3 courses, and BYO (wine only). There is a bar at the reception lounge where you may like to enjoy a pre-luncheon drink. If you need to buy soft drinks or beer, or more wine, they have a very good and reasonably priced house wine available.
The weekend seems to be free of any trackwork, and if you get in the rear carriage you can exit at the Sydney end of Medlow Bath station where it is a level walk rather that going up all those stairs at the Blackheath end exit. It
is about a 10min flat walk to the guesthouse along Railway Parade, then left into Somerset Street and you can't miss The Chalet which is at the end of Somerset in Portland Road. They would also offer attractive overnight rates if
any of you want to make a weekend of it. Just mention you are coming up for the SCOG event.
Trains depart Central at 09.18 (arriving at Medlow Bath at 11.27), or if that is too early, 9.48 (arriving at 11.57). If you are driving, please try to get there by around 12.15/12.30 (see address below). There are no bottle shops at
Medlow Bath.
There will be traditional raffle prizes this year and we will be selling tickets between courses. Non refundable payments must be made in advance, at least 2 weeks prior to the luncheon date and a maximum number does apply, so please try to get in as early as you can or you may miss out.
You can book your seat directly with The Chalet by contacting David.
Either post a cheque to: The Chalet, 46-50 Portland Road, Medlow Bath 2780 and please include the names of who it is booked for, and make the cheque out to The Chalet Guesthouse. Or, for credit card payments, you can either phone them on (02) 4788 1122 or email your details toinfo@chaletguesthouseandstudio.com.au
Please mention it is for the SCOG luncheon event. If you have any dietary requests, please let them know at time of booking.
Any questions, please contact Bob on 4787 8270
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25/26 April
Feeling jaded already after summer's passing and a quarter of the year gone already?
Need a weekend away from the rat race? You need:
KIAMA WEEKEND
This is the Anzac Day weekend. Perhaps you want some relief from the jingoistic excesses of the Gallipoli centenary. You can take the whole weekend, or join us for the individual walks on the Saturday or Sunday. The water temperature is still reasonable in late April, so bring swimmers or wear swim shorts if the weather is warm and sunny.
Saturday 25 April - an afternoon coastal stroll from Kiama along the beach to Minnamurra, then train back to Kiama. 11 kilometres / 3-3.5 hours.
Take the train to Kiama from Town Hall at 9.24 or from Central at 9.29, arriving at Kiama at 11.48. There is some space for a small amount of left luggage at the station, so you can do the walk, then collect your bag before going on to your accommodation. You will be able to do this on either day.
Lunch is at the Stone Wall Cafe in Manning Street, a two minute walk from the station, or any place nearby that takes your fancy. We will leave from the Stone Wall Cafe (named after the distinctive fences on local farms, not the famous gay icon in New York) no later than 1pm.
Starting at Kiama Harbour, we follow the rocks around the headland, then along Bombo Beach, where we will ogle the surfers catching waves as we reluctantly walk past. We make a slight detour to visit the heritage-listed geology of Bombo Headland, then down to The Boneyard beach, up again to a headland walk behind Cliff Drive, taking in a view of Cathedral Rocks before descending to Jones Beach. The last part of the walk takes us round Minnamurra Point and views across to Rangoon Island and the river mouth. If we time things right we will have coffee before boarding the 4.45 train back to Kiama.
NB: If you are doing this as a day walk from Sydney, the train from Minnamurra to Sydney leaves at 5.12pm.
If there is sufficient interest we can eat out together from 7 in the evening plus the odd drink or two beforehand.
See the attachments for more information about this walk.
Sunday 26 April - the Kiama to Gerringong coastal walk following a track negotiated with local landowners. 17 kilometres / 5 hours
We will be leaving the Stone Wall Cafe at 11am after breakfast, giving you plenty of time to check out the local sights such as Blowhole Point beforehand. Unfortunately the Pilots Cottage museum does not open until 11.
NB: If you want to join us for this day walk from Sydney you will need to catch the Kiama train leaving Town Hall at 8.24 or Central at 8.29. You will just have time to get from the station to the Stone Wall Cafe in Manning Street. The walk leader will meet you at the station if you give advance notice of your intentions and a contact mobile phone number.
This walk takes us past several bays and headlands in the township of Kiama, followed by a visit to the Little Blowhole and Marsden Head. The walk proper commences at Loves Bay. The path hugs the hills of the coastline and is separated from the grazing dairy cattle by a secure fence. It then cuts through a headland before descending to Werri Beach, where we should have the same pleasure we had at Bombo the previous day of eyeing off the local surfers as we trudge south along Werri Beach before the final ascent to a viewing platform, parkland reserve and suburban streets and our arrival in the township for a coffee. Then it's a brief walk downhill to the station for the 16.48 train back to Kiama and on to Sydney.
See the attachments for more information about this walk.
Accommodation
You will need to arrange your own accommodation in Kiama, Gerringong or Berry.
Optional extra
There is a lot to see and do in this part of the world. Friday 24 April is an optional extra for retired SCOGers or those wanting more time away from the office and city. Contact the organiser if you want to take up this option.
Organiser
The weekend organiser is Murray, ph 0411 405 086 (after 7pm on Mondays and Thursdays) or
brownmnsw@netscape.net (show SCOG as subject)
If you are interested in coming, or want more information, please let me know.
__._,_.___ Great Walks Kiama article.pdf
Saturday 5 September
SPRING CYCLING CENTENNIAL PARK
GET OUT THAT BIKE and enjoy a beginners ride around the park to spot the new sights. We cater to the non spandex mob (although you are welcome in spandex just the same).
Join us for a leisurely hour or two where we will take an easy jaunt around the park a couple of times or so. It’s that easy. Any bike will do, so come along, grab a friend and we will see you there.
Our morning begins by meeting at the Centennial Park gates at Paddington near the intersection of Moore Park Road and Oxford Street.
We will have a couple of diversions to see the eels and tortoises in the Lachlan swamps and then return to our leisurely ride.
We finish off with an early brunch at the mobile café in the centre of the park where we can mix with the Frontrunners Gay athletes as they cool down with some food after their hectic morning run. A nice bunch of people they are. By the way you can hire bikes within the park if you’re without one.
Be sure to bring water with you and protection from the sun.
Meet at the gates (see above) at 8.45am. Please let me know you are coming by leaving a message on my mobile (Barry) 0467066257 Also, you must call me by 7am on the day if inclement weather threatens – for a decision on proceeding or not.
GRADE: Very Easy
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