To beat the heat of yet another scorcher 34C, plus humidity, the Gaiter Girls were hiking by 6am. Thanks to Rachel, we explored another local, part suburban trail. I had previously read about a section of this trail, but had discounted it as unworthy, because of its short distance. Thanks Rachel, even in the heat and dry conditions, today's 11km offered so much contrasting beauty for us to be grateful for.
Initially we walked through this relatively new estate, admiring grand homes and gardens.
We were impressed with their signage.
The Gaitor 'Hoppers' crossing the street!
Entering the bushland trail.
Sometimes flat, sometimes steep and windy, dry or lush.
Silly trail signs needed silly photos.
The leafy mulch mound, of the nest of a bush turkey.
This sulphur crested cockatoo is looking at us inquisitively, but he was actually quite upset with his mates.
Eucalypt beauty.
Birdsong and leafy green shade.
Taking time to see ................
Water dragon
Towards the end of the trail, the bush and houses were side by side. What a delightful surprise to discover these wallabies quite at home. They never fail to excite us, when spotted.
Our tall, straight gums also continuously inspire me.
The bright colours of the magnificent jacarandah and poiciana are now fading and being replaced by the striking white beauty of the buckinghamia, along with the softer colours of the grevillias.
On our return from this wonderful morning's walk, the sad news of a friend being diagnosed with cancer, reaffirmed our belief that you have to make the most of every day and the beauty in it.
I would love to read your comment.
I am sorry Helen that you had to receive bad news about your friend. Best wishes to your friend! Starting your hike at 6:00am to beat the heat just confirms your joy and passion for being out & about. Yes, you are making the most of your days!
ReplyDeleteThe Hungry Hiker's set off at 6.40 on Wednesday at 5k it was so humid I began to feel woozy and the legs reluctant to go foward, so we turned back and 7k was the total for the morning.
DeleteYes, I've also learned that I need to make each day count. I just love seeing photos of you zany hiking women. You make me smile every time. Those buckinghamia are so lovely. You saw amazing critters and foliage. Lovely trails.
ReplyDeleteThanks Barb. I am enjoying your wintery scenes.
DeleteThose wallabys are so cute! Good for you and your friends for getting outside, despite the hot forecast.
ReplyDeleteWe can't complain as the rest of the country is so much hotter and drier.
DeleteI loved seeing the photos of the wallabies. It's fun to see creatures that only exist in zoos around here.
ReplyDeleteI love that nature provides different plants at different times of the year. These blooms and foliage certainly brighten our days.
I'm reminded of the old Sunday School song, "Count your blessings, name them one by one." It is important to make the most of each of the moments we are blessed with. Hugs for your friend and those who will support the journey.
Yes Kim. We don't talk of seasons of the year. We talk about when the, let's say, 'the jacarandah' is out.
DeleteWhat a marvellous hike with lots of lovely trees and wildlife. (So glad you managed to work out my new blog theme...)
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DeleteI only saw a wallabi in person in Bursa Zoo. Thanks for sharing these great photos!
ReplyDeleteAs always, Helen, you choose wonderful places to walk and I would imagine that the trees provided a little relief from the heat. I must say that as a regular event, we don't see a whole lot of news here about Australia (other than for Prime Minister musical chairs!) but this current heat wave you have been experiencing has made the news frequently. It seems to be affecting the whole continent. My friends in Melbourne have had days over 40 degrees, I know. When it is cold here I can dress in layers and stay warm, but it is impossible to escape that kind of heat. The wildlife must suffer greatly.
ReplyDeleteYes the canopy makes a big difference. I had to laugh re 'musical chairs' and we have more elections looming. Ugh! The campaigning is already in full swing. If only the promises became reality for the good of the people and not the parties.
DeleteI can think of few people who do a better job of living life each day than my friend, Helen. The Cockatoo does seem a bit out of sorts. Love the wallabies.
ReplyDeleteWhy thank you Bill. You have brought a huge smile to my face.
Delete11kms too short! I love the wallabies and the flowers in particular.
ReplyDeleteHi Joan. We would like them to be longer, but not in this heat.
DeleteThe trail that I had read about was only 3 km.
Cute animals, wonderful plants, lovely landscapes... as always.
ReplyDeleteI'd love to walk the small road of the photo number 24.
Hoping that the cancer of your friend is a curable one, I send you big hugs. xx
Sara, it was all rather perfect, except for the heat!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear about your friend. You are an inspiration for making everyday count, seeing beauty everywhere and enjoying walks & hikes with friends. I love seeing all these adventures through your photos.
ReplyDeleteOne of the delights of the blog world is I can read about hike adventures in searing heat, with tropical flowers and wildlife we only see in zoos, while I look out of the window at winter where I live.
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