Hi everyone
The weather gods delivered another blue sky day for us last Saturday. And it wasn’t the irrigation tunnels this week, but the two Poolburn tunnels on the rail trail – much easier to walk through.
22 W1s headed across the paddocks through the long grass up to the rail trail taking the opportunity to get their photo taken on the viaduct. They could look down to see that the rivers had been cleared of more willow trees this year. They ran into the W2s just past the Poolburn railway shed – were the W2s walking really fast this year or were the W1s enjoying the views on the way? Mike says he took them for an extra 1km diversion at the top of the hill so they wouldn’t get back too early!
17 W2s headed straight up the hill – starting off going straight up the hill might have not been appreciated by all of them but they all made it up there in good time to enjoy the 360 degree views over the Ida and Manuherekia valleys. The W2s were like a mob of sheep, uncertain where to go from time to time, so Peter was observed drafting them through a number of gates – maybe the club needs some sheepdogs to keep them on track. Not that dogs would have helped get them all through/over the final fence which seemed to take them a long time. They got back to a lukewarm cup of water, not even hot enough to brew the tea – so the heat was turned up and everyone waiting patiently for their hot cuppa – lucky we had sunshine!
The 4 W3s wandered over to the viaduct, walking through long grass with uncertain footing underneath and unsure what they were standing on – an impressive feat given they had one with a new knee, another recovering from a stroke, none as fit and agile as age catches up with them all. Need to get the W1s in front to go through with a slasher next year so that we can see where we are walking!!! The pack leader led them through ALL the bidibids to be found just so there was a reminder of the walk when they got home!
This Saturday is a local outing – no duty pack for afternoon tea as we will head straight back to the Ida Bar and Kitchen to salute King Charles afterwards. Meet at the normal place at 1pm!
Matariki Weekend Tramp
Friday 10 to Monday 13 July – Caples Greenstone – turns out it is 4 days and 3 nights so thats some extra coat to carry this year! So far 8 have signed up but we can take another 4-8 people if you are interested in joining us. BYO food and sherpa. Please let Mike know asap if you are interested email michael.kotkamp@gmail.com or phone/text 0272750369.
We will be hiring a van and trailer – costs to be advised. Hut costs will be $25/night.
Club dinner
20 June at the Senior Citizens rooms. $35 per head. Sign up on the list at our Saturday events or contact Barrie phone 021-445-918 or email barriefhood@gmail.com.
Hope to see you on Saturday! I may or may not be there!
Gary
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