Monday 17 November 2014

Coopernook

Our initial plan was to head to Cottan-Bimbang National Park. With forecast temperatures of over 38C we decided to stay closer to the coast.

We headed to Landsdowne State Forest with no particular plans other than exploring the tracks and finding a secluded campsite.

We entered Landsdowne via Coopernook. Cooper nook Hotel to be exact.


We entered Landsdowne State Forest via Forest Way which runs off Landsdowne Road.

First stop was Mt Vincent Look Out. A rather unimpressive site which would have had a great view to the coast were it not for the smoke haze.



Heading along Coopernook Forest Way we eventually ended up in Coorabakh National Park.


Coorbakh National Park has some great locations. Starrs Creek, Flat Rock Lookout, Newbys Lookout and Newbys Cave.

We ended up on Big Nellie Road and came across a sign post pointing right to all the sites. I wish I had taken a photo because Shells comment when she saw the sign was 'I am not going right! Signs don't tell me where to go'

So straight we went! Up one of the more challenging climbs we have done.

We ended up at Flat Rock Look Out.

I am a little rattled after the drive.







This track wrapped all the way around and ended up on Waitui Road on the very edge of the Combine State Forest where we found our campsite in a secluded spot right next to Stewarts River.

It was too early to set up camp and we had missed most of what Coorabakh had to offer so we dropped a pin and headed back.

Fist stop was Newbys Cave. Which is a short hike from Newbys Road.




Newbys Creek was not running. I assume this is why.


Finally Starrs Creek for a cup of tea before we headed back to camp site.



The road back should have taken around 45 minutes on Big Nellie Road. 'Luckily' we found an open gate and a seldom used track named Beech Road.

According to Mud Map and my Topo map this track would shave at least 15 minutes off our journey.

After two hours of machete work and the occasional starting of the chainsaw to clear our way through we arrived on Waitui Road.

All things considered it was a challenging track and good fun.

Campsite.


Refreshments.


One of the prettiest sites we have discovered. That evening just after dusk fire flies swept through the camp. I had never seen them before. Without getting too sentimental, it was an absolutely magical evening.

Next morning it was off to Ellenborough Falls (again). Mostly for the amazing food the Kiosk but also because I really enjoy the hike to base.

Ellenborough Falls from The Knoll.


It was hot at the base so we jumped in for a swim. (Caution. Hairy man with shirt off).


Ellen borough Falls from the base.


A few random shots. This little fella was on Big Nellie Road. (Released safely back into the bush).



A great weekend.

Sunday 2 November 2014

Pokolbin Sate Forest Camp

Our intention was to camp at Joe's Cove in Mungo Brush.

According to my topo map this site should be an easy drive along Tait's Fire Trail.

Tait's Fire Trail, like every trail in Mungo Brush, was locked.

The restriction of access to State Forests is a huge issue with me.

We headed back to Pokolbin Sate Forest to have a look at the camp site we found two weeks previous.

Access via Pokolbin Mountain Road on to Broken Back Road.

It was a hot day, 37C in Pokolbin.

We were on the Eastern side and well shaded.

A cool change arrived around 4.30pm and we were hit with a terrific thunder storm.

Tent was up so we stayed nice and dry.

View from the tent.


Camp site.

Through the trees to cliff face.



The view South to the Watagans.


East to the Coast.


Camping is not an excuse to be uncivilised.


The temperature dropped to 9C overnight with a big SW picking up. Sunrise was still and cold. Worth the early rise to watch.


'Watching' the sunrise.


Packed and ready for the days adventure.



The next camping spot. High up on the ridge line facing NW. The view from where the tent will be pitched.