Bermagui, Summer 2020/21

After a crazy year in which we were confronted with the Covid 19 pandemic, lockdowns and the inability to travel and to see each other, Society members Tim, Sally G, Lenny, Isley, Sal, Tim Briscoe, Timmy, Nell, Maddy, Ben, Dom, Dan, Isaac, Bella, Archie, Hamy, Billie and Darcy converged on long time favourite destination Bermagui to reunite with our ‘explorer in residence’ (Muz) and to stretch our adventuring legs.

In addition to the usual time at the beach and Muz’s cabin, much feasting and catching up, one of the highlights of this trip was the expedition to the top of Gulaga/Mount Dromedary by Archie, Nell, Dom, Sal, Tim Briscoe, Dan and Isaac. In addition to the great adventure of this steep and demanding 14km plus round trip, we encountered some wonderful wildlife including an echidna and - most memorably - a diamond python which we were able to see extremely close up. We also explored the giant granite tors at The Saddle on our way down, one of the most special of all the many places we’ve visited.

Alas, no photograph exists of the epic scooter riding action on New Year’s Eve, particularly Timmy’s majestic attempt at a jump from the concrete track to the grass outside the Fisherman’s Wharf and Co-op. It ended spectacularly and was universally agreed to have been the single moment that redeemed all the bad moments of 2020 with one majestic epic fail..!

Beginning the ascent of Gulaga/Mount Dromedary. Archie well out in front and leading the way.

Our favourite tree! Well on the way up now.

7km up and 7km back down again. This walk is not for the unprepared, but the rewards were great.

Almost to the top! Taking stock and double checking our bearings.

Archie making the acquaintance of a friendly diamond python!

The Saddle of Gulaga/Mount Dromedary. An extraordinary place, and deeply significant to the Yuin people.

Archie. The face of a true explorer..!

Muz and her six ‘kids’.

All six Cove siblings with kids and Muz. Quite the gathering!

Sibling partners with Muz.