Girraween Base Camp

20-23 September 2007

The majority of our little band of adventurers was from QBW with two friends from the Gold Coast Bushwalkers Club. Some came early and set up camp on the Thursday.

Friday’s outing included a drive from the Castle Rock campgrounds to the south via Wallangarra and then on to Bald Rock. The walk started with a quick ascent of Bald Rock. From here we observed a number of bush fires well into NSW and heading in an easterly direction. From here we travelled south to South Bald Rock. We explored rock structures to the south of the main feature.

Mindful of the time, we commenced our return journey along the dirt road. For a considerable distance our view to the east was blocked by granite outcrops. We suddenly noticed a large pall of smoke rising above the rocks from the east. We then had concerns to return to the vehicle as quickly as possible to ensure that we were not cut off by spreading bushfires. However, the breeze was only slight, unlike the day before when there were 60 knot winds.

Upon our return to the camp grounds we welcomed the new arrivals during the evening.

Saturday was the highlight. Our first port of call was Mt Norman. There we explored various rock structures and then climbed to the top for a commanding view.

From Mt Norman we went off track to Mallee Ridge and explored the magnificent panorama leading to the entrance of the ‘Valley of the Winds’.

I can not help but wonder how it got its name. Being so close to the border had it been a conduit to transmit hot or cold atmosphere between the states. From a base perspective I think it more likely that it might relate to happy bands of bushwalkers who might pass through after having had a delicious breakfast of baked beans. Either way it is a place that can take your breath away.

Following this we navigated through a bit of roughage across the creek line and onto the next ridge. Some added excitement came with the company of an electrical storm and some hail. We enjoyed the brief benefit of an accommodating cave before moving on when if fined up. After a brief visit to the ‘Shark Fin’ rock complex we moved through the features to the north and met up with the track for a comfortable walk home to camp.

Sunday provided a nice easy outing to Sphinx and Turtle Rock. At Turtle we explored the cave and surrounding structures. We then climbed to the top of Turtle for a good look see.

I would like to thank everybody who came along as it is because of their involvement that made it as special as it was. It can be best summed up from a thank you note from one of our friends at the coast, “Wonderful times with people that are so friendly and helpful”. Trevor D