Ubajee Campsite to Thilba Thalba Campsite – 14km
“Here comes the rain!”
What a wonderful day of walking! I’d had it in mind that I needed to start early. Rain was forecast for later in the afternoon and there were several creek crossings to be made in the morning which were described as being impassable if heavy. With such a short distance today, I was also hoping to get into camp and set up before the clouds burst.
I was on my way by just after 7am. It was a gorgeous morning. Cloudy, brisk and perfect for walking. The first couple of kilometers led downhill toward Gheerulla falls. The track was a lovely mix of eucalypts, palms and grass trees interspersed with purple flowering pea.
At the bottom of the mountain, I veered off for a quick detour to the falls. They were running briskly, steamy mist rising from the surface.
Back on the track, I followed the creek for several kilometers. This was primo walking. Nice and flat, variety of vegetation, pools of murky water, heaps of birdlife. I crossed the creeks with no problem – no wet feet, though I imagine after some rain there could be some issues.
Heading slightly uphill, I came to a small clearing with an expansive view. Time for a break. As I watched, the clouds rolled in and it began to sprinkle. It wasn’t heavy, and served to create an eerie atmospheric mist through the forest.
The track started to rise higher. Now there were numerous yellow wildflowers and bristly banksias. From here, it was a steep climb back up to the top. Lots of switchbacks made it really manageable, and with plenty of time, I rested as much as I wanted to. It was a great workout none the less.
Eventually, I was right up high again. A break in the trees provided the opportunity for an amazing view off into the distance. I could see rain clouds on the way.
At the top, I reached Thilba Thalba lookout and was able to see the mountain I had descended in the morning; the creek I had walked alongside; and, the ginormous mountain I had climbed. I love it when you can see where you came from.
On the way to camp I started reflecting on why I love walking so much. I’ve thought this before, but it was reinforced again today. It’s because it makes me feel like I have a superpower. For every step I take, that feeling grows. It means that I have made some good decisions, that I’ve been fit enough, that I’ve had the will power and the want to succeed. It means that I’ve moved out of my comfort zone, and at times, put myself in moments of deep discomfort. Each step is an achievement. And each step makes me feel invincible. It’s an amazing feeling being able to rely fully on yourself.
I reached camp around 12.30pm and quickly began the task of setting up my tent.Nice hot lunch, and a trip to the viewing platform where it was windy, dark and grey. Not long after, the first fat droplets of rain splattered down on to the picnic table. Retreat! Retreat! and into the tent I bustled.
That was at about 2.30pm. The rain drizzled on for about 3 hours before tapering off for a bit. I took the chance to don my raingear and head outside. Nothing to see here. Wet, wet, wet. I managed to get to the bathroom before the floodgates opened again. Small mercies.
Back in the tent…and this time for the long haul. There’s only so much you can say about it. Cooking, gearing up for bed, boredom…all in a cramped space. Nothing to be done.
I had been hoping to listen to a couple of podcasts before bed. No such luck. My brand new power bank died unexpectedly. I had gotten an Anker based on the reviews, but for some reason, this one seems like a dud. Trouble charging and now this…I’m gonna have to look for a replacement before the next walk.
So time to turn off the phone to conserve battery (no reception anyways), read the kindle and snooze. I kept thinking just how lucky I was – to be warm and dry, whilst the rain pelted down outside. What a feeling, to be warm, fed, and safe.
Final thought….this has to be a wombat head doesn’t it?
