Thursday 8th April. Another warm and humid day.
Stunning Myrtle Beech Forest walk
The Great Ocean Road is famous for its koala population. In most other areas they are under threat or extinct, due to lack of habitat through development and bushfires. We are seeing several every day high in the trees. Unfortunately the reverse is happening along this stretch of the coast, the numbers have been so large that they are destroying the native eucalyptus forests by over-feeding,leaving them like ghost trees. Many have been relocated to other areas to attempt to address the problem.
Boot cleaning stations to prevent the spread of the Cinnamon Fungus - a remarkable looking plant
After the first few signs, I was beginning to think we should call this walk, the Journey of Potential Dangers. As if the dangers on land aren’t enough, there’s still more peril on Bass Strait with high seas, sharks, shipwrecks - an exciting week ahead.
I was particularly concerned about the flesh-eating snail - but I think they are under control, but again a very impressive creature, according to the signboards
Today we started Shelley Beach carpark and returns to the coast at Blanket Bay on an isolated stretch of coast and then along the cliff tops, enjoying views of the coastline and some coastal forest.
A good safe track through the bush and coastal path
Mainly tough vegetation to survive the windy climate but bits of colour along the way.
Excellent acclimatisation today, before a big walk tomorrow. The group of 10 women, ranging from a university researcher in her 30s to others in mid to late 60s, walk at a relatively similar pace, which will make the daily journeys more enjoyable.
M
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