Plan C: Palm Beach to Avalon
With the planned Mt. Murray Anderson walk – Duffeys Forest (Plan A) at risk of not going ahead due to a planned Hazard Reduction on Sunday, Plan B (West Head: Salvation, Wallaroo & Yeomans Tracks circuit) was put in place on Thursday just in case. After a recce on Friday to check the track head at the start of the planned (A) walk, both plans were then stifled late on Friday with a Total Fire Ban closing National Parks in Sydney.
OK, Plan C was now needed. Justin came to the rescue late Friday, suggesting Palm Beach to Avalon. With maps checked, track recording loaded and now a 3rd set of sign-on sheets done, we had a plan. Messages sent out, thankfully 14 of the registered walkers were keen and available.
Meeting at Avalon, we caught the 199 bus to Palm Beach. Heading north the plan was to climb up to Barrenjoey lighthouse. Oops, another park closed meant that was a no-go. Off to the beach, then north along the beach to touch the rock, then we turned south for a bit more sand walking. The breeze meant it was not so hot thankfully. The 10.5km or so along beaches, several roads, views of the ocean and a couple of hills and headlands to climb on the way, brought us to our finish at Avalon about 12:30pm. Lunch on the steps outside the surf club, then most headed off to the Avalon Bowlo for drinks.
Thanks to all for your company and good spirits.
Peter
A reflective perspective as we approach Avalon