Beaufort

 Walk Report May 30.

The forecast was dire, the wind strong and cold, but a group of 13 optimists set off past the oval in the Beaufort, Goldfields Recreation Reserve. Our route took us along the newlakeside promenade, complete with wide concrete path, attractive caged pebble retaining walls, picnic tables, BBQ and playground.

The lake itself reflects the extremely dry conditions prevailing in the west of the state, with several metres of freeboard to the high water mark. Judy and Jean led us into the bush, along gravel tracks and roads. It was a relief to be out of the wind at last to enjoy the sights and sounds of our natural environment.

At our “banana break”, a large, clay-pot structure was spied high on a tree branch. Chris Charleson identified it as a Chough (as in “Tough”) nest. The Chough is a very social, black, raven-like bird with red eyes and white visible in its wings in flight.

After our break we continued through the open forest, where the brightest sight, other than ourselves, was the Native Correa, with its pretty, red and yellow bells, dotting the landscape. Our bush-loop brought us back to the lake and its abundant bird life, including various ducks, Eurasian Coots and Purple Swamp Hens.

We had lunch beside the lake, but didn’t dally as rain was imminent, the first drops hitting the windscreen a few kilometers along the highway. Another well-judged walk.

Many thanks to Judy and Jean for their planning and guidance  - we all  thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Helen Mc.