The Pink Full Moon

Monday 26 April

In choosing a destination for my next camping trip, I selected Lake Moogoorah Camping. This choice was made to allow for wide open, non light polluted star viewing. As our departure date loomed, I began to realise that the moon was showing its face here. A little bit of googling informed me that this moon would be full on our second night in camp. Now I love a full moon, but I now knew that our star watching would be limited. Still, a full moon rising over the lake would be pretty special.

4.30 - Time to relax and watch the moon rise and sun set on Monday afternoon. The moon wouldn't be full, but the lighting would be best for photography.

5.15pm, looking east - Trying to spot where the moon will or will not be seen.

5.45pm - the clouds illuminated by the moon in hiding.

A glass of red and a roaring fire helped ease the disappointment of no moon.

A brief showing through the clouds.

Leanne is a master at creating a good campfire.

The following morning I was up at 5.30am to watch the moon setting behind the hills. Greater disappointment was felt, as the moon was not to be found and the sky was crystal clear. My google search definitely got the timing wrong!

A lovely sunrise followed and Leanne provided a beautiful breakfast. The view was very soothing.

Tuesday 5.50pm - The sun had fully set, but we watched with awe, the glowing 'Pink', full moon rising in the east.

Wednesday morning I tried my luck again.  At 6am, the moon was still far above the horizon.

We watched it slowly sink, enhanced by the ever changing sunrise glow.

A last image at 7am.

Our day was filled with joining our Hungry Hiker friends on a hike to the beautiful Cronan Falls. In the evening, it was very pleasant to relax and watch the flames dancing. Mesmerising!

This cute possum came for several visits. My camera isn't good for night images.

Our last morning. A beautifully painted sky.

The sky rapidly cleared to fluffy white clouds with a back drop of crystal blue.

No stars, but happiness abounded in every shape and form during our short stay here.

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A Peak and a Waterfall

27 and 28 April 

Tuesday

It was time to take the van out again. I chose Lake Moogerah Camping ground, hoping to enjoy the night sky and as a base for a couple of days hiking. 

There were no stars, only a cloud covered, Pink Full Moon. More about that and the magnificent sunrise and sunsets I enjoyed, to come.

On Tuesday, Leanne [my camping companion] and I, were joined by our friends Joc, Jan and Tony, who made the 2 hour journey down from Brisbane. Mt Edwards overlooks the Moogerah Dam wall and was begging to be ascended. Three steep k's up and back, but worth it for the lovely views.

But first, morning tea, to enjoy the view of Lake Moogerah from a different perspective.

 

The climb commences with a walk across the dam wall.

The trail

First view point.

The peak far above us.

Enjoying the view and snack time, to re-energise after the continous steep, rough climb.

View across the Fassifern Valley.

Rocky descent.

Friendly Lorikeets back at the caravan park, as we ate a delicious, late lunch.

Jumbo burgers - thanks, Leanne. Just what was needed.

Wednesday 

On our early morning drive to meet the Hungry Hikers, we passed these lovely scenes.

Mt Maroon

And from a different angle, several kilometres on.

When the Gaiter Girls and I had discovered the lovely hike to Cronan Falls a few weeks ago, I wanted the Hungry Hikers to also have the experience.  A few weeks ago the skies were crystal clear and the creek in full flow. On this day, as expected, the creek flow had lessened and the sky had decided to hide behind clouds. Never the less, the hike was very much enjoyed.

9.30 am

The initial, long climb was not appreciated. There was much mumbling.

All smiles at the top.

A foggy Mt Barney.

Mt Lindsey was not co operative at all.

Shoes off for the first crossing.

Second crossing - we all made it with shoes on.

Margot didn't risk it.

Cronan Falls

Retracing our steps.

Very interesting fruit / seed.

And of course, we are not called the Hungry Hikers for nothing. Thanks again Leanne for whipping up lunch so quickly and deliciously!

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