Participant Name Member Number Vehicle Details

Trip to Blue Rag & Harrison ’ s Cutting

What a magnificent morning to set out for a road trip . The sun was shining , the sky a clear blue . Our trip leader , Toni travelling with Colin , had a following of six cars consisting of : Sam and Helen , John and Shelley , Ed , Bryce and Declan , Peter , Mike and Karin , Adrian and Jenny .

The happy group left the campground at 8.30am & the road proved to be narrow and dusty . There were some bumpy tracks as well as smooth ones . Who doesn ’ t like variety ?

Whilst travelling we had lovely views of the mountain ridge which was densely populated by trees , looking like a deep green plush carpet . A truly mesmerising vista .

Our novice leader ( supported in the shadows by Peter Van Riel ) communicated instructions clearly & relayed interesting tips , one of which was that the bracken fern lining the track could be used as a soothing balm for cuts and stings . You crack the stem and rub the sap on the affected area . Fascinating information Toni !

The track was constantly changing from wide to narrow , smooth to rough and bumpy , dusty and clear . Our first stop came at 10am . We stopped at the historic railway carriage which was once used as shelter by miners and loggers . We had time to stretch our legs , mingle and indulge in morning tea .

As we continued our journey we had to dodge fallen trees and protruding branches which was accomplished skilfully by all . One could not tire of the views as we approached Blue Rag . It was breathtaking and peaceful . We arrived around noon . We admired our surroundings while mingling and eating lunch . It was a pleasant time to get to know each other .

Leaving Blue Rag , we headed to Harrisons Cutting which is a beautiful waterhole with a little waterfall . We arrived at our destination around 3pm . The clear water was an inviting and refreshing

site . It was lovely going for a swim on such a beautiful sunny day . The waterfall was great for a massage for stiff bodies !

After our relaxing break , we continued our drive to Dargo where we refuelled , picked up supplies and of course indulged in a drink at the pub . The trip home was via more dusty , rocky tracks with more steep descents . We took a “ short cut ” suggested by Peter & crossed a river which became 2,3,4 , etc . By the end of this short cut we had managed to cross 24 rivers ! A very pleasant way to go back to our campsite albeit making us a little late for the usual 5.00pm drinks and nibbles . A very lovely day was had by all .

Well done Toni !

Jenny Castagnini 1177

© Vol 34 No . 2 - March 2017