28 Apr 2022
35 students and three teachers recently embarked from Gerringong Station on their bronze and silver expeditions. After obtaining morning tea at Gerringong, the trek began, joining the renowned Kiama Coast Walk at its Southern end. What followed was a muddy, slippery yet breathtakingly scenic walk on sloping grass through sporadic drizzle that was well worth the effort.
The fact that this walk went ahead was a miracle, after multiple attempts to book expeditions in the Royal National Park were thwarted firstly by Covid-19 and finally, the deluge. The lateral thinking of Mr Riley made us look at basing our expeditions on caravan parks rather than national parks, and the Kiama Coast Walk was born!
The weather on the second day was much more forgiving, with brilliant sunshine tracking our every movement Northwards, through Kiama, Bombo Beach, Jones' Beach, stopping momentarily at the Minnamurra River. A rubber raft assisted students across the deeper sections of the river. The expedition then proceeded along spectacular Minamurra Beach to Mystics, then a short walk to our second night's stay at Killalea Reserve.
The final day's walk proceeded through Shell Cove to Shellharbour Station, which is where our epic journey came to an end.
All boys successfully handled whatever challenge that was thrown at them. Huge thanks to Ms McNamara and Mr Riley who generously donated their time, enthusiasm, and expertise. We look forward to further expeditions in the Royal National Park towards the end of the year.
Mr Graham