TBC September Walks

Evening all,

We have an exciting September ahead with lots of fun trips! Below are short descriptions and sign-up details. Attached are further walk descriptions and photos of what to expect.

Looking forward to seeing you on a walk soon!

Summary of upcoming walks

• 7 September – Hermit Falls, Paluma
• 14 September – White Rock Bay (details to come)
• 21 September – Alligator Creek Falls
• 28 September – The Terraces at Palm Creek

7 September – Hermit Falls, Paluma

Walk leader: Ian Wallace
RSVP: [email protected]
Rating: Grade 5

Short description: 10 km loop, off-track, thick bush, uneven ground, rock hopping and creek walking. Fit and experienced walkers only.

Full details

This is a full day walk, with an estimated return to cars around 4:30 pm, followed by the 2+ hour drive back to Townsville.

Terrain:

• Cross-country woodland, creek rock hopping, and scrambling (no marked tracks)
• Uneven footing, bush bashing, steep climbs, creek walking, exposed ledges, and long grass
• Remote area – no facilities and no mobile reception

Route:

• Cross-country bushwalking to the creek
• Creek walking to Hermit Falls (morning tea + swim)
• Continue upstream for ~1.5 hrs to rapids and gully site (lunch)
• Cross-country back to the road and cars

What to bring:

• Day pack, food/snacks, and minimum 4 L water (treat creek water if refilling)
• Long-sleeve clothing, sturdy footwear, hat, sunglasses
• Walking poles (if needed), electrolytes
• Insect repellent (leeches, mozzies), sunscreen
• Personal first aid kit, personal medications
• Head torch and whistle

14 September – White Rock Bay

Walk leader: Molly Hoey
RSVP: [email protected]
Details: to follow in a subsequent email

21 September – Alligator Creek Falls

Walk leader: Amanda Drilling
RSVP: [email protected]
Rating: Grade 3

Short description: 17 km return, good track with creek crossings and the option for a swim at the falls.

Full details

• ~6 hours total (including breaks)
• Multiple creek crossings (one may be waist-deep)
• Expect wet shoes and clothes
• Swim opportunity at the base of the falls

28 September – The Terraces at Palm Creek

Walk leaders: Cherry & Ian
RSVP: [email protected]
Rating: Grade 5, full day walk (return 4–5 pm)

Note: This walk starts from private property (no public access).

Full details

• Begins on track, mostly off-track bushwalking and rock hopping
• Expect cliffs, steep hills, loose surfaces, and scrambling

What to bring:

• Food/snacks for the day
• Minimum 2 L water (treat creek water; 4 L recommended)
• Electrolytes, insect repellent, sunscreen, hat
• Basic personal first aid kit
• Optional: fingerless gloves, hiking poles (handy in creeks)

Clothing & footwear:

• Long sleeves or gaiters recommended (for scratches/bites)
• Sturdy shoes with good grip for slippery rocks