- Start date: 1 September 2011
- Age When Completed: 70
- Direction Walked: Sectional
- Others in Group:
Lyn Chilby
General Comments
We started our little trek from Kalamunda to Albany on the 1st September 2011 with a test walk, of one day, to Mundaring Weir. This is to ensure that we know, or hoped to know, what we were in for. After getting lost twice (talking and missing the markers), we finally arrived at Mundaring Weir. Our lesson that day was the importance of drinking plenty of water. We returned to the Track on the 12 Oct. At Mt Dale, we received some valuable information from two regular walkers and scout leaders - especially about how remove ticks and the importance of having a supply of Fixomull. On the 15th we arrived at Brookton Hwy for a food drop, only to be advised that the next day’s forecast was 40 degrees. As we were having some malfunctions with some of our gear it was a very good excuse to jump in the car and head for home. We continued on the 17th Oct, due to family commitments we were picked up from Sullivan Rock recommenced after 2 days with the intention of going all the way to Albany. All was going to plan until Lyn developed heel problems near Collie. The diagnosis was:- No serious walking for 6 months. Unfortunately after returning on the 19th Oct 2012 on the approach to Balingup I developed blisters on the balls of both feet. Which resulted in a 7 day lay-off, then it was back to walking onwards south. This time all went to plan as we arrived in Albany on the 3rd Dec 2012, disposing of our boots (falling to pieces), at the first opportunity. Some article of clothing ;met the same fate.
Favourite Section
Our favourite spot, well there were too many places along the Track to pick from so I would have to say our favour stop was the Pemby Pub or any place we could have a hot shower.
Highlights
On the whole we found the Track exhilarating, at times quite challenging and hard work. The scenery especially the views on the Southern Coast were fantastic and breathtaking. In some areas the wild flowers put a magnificent display. We had the pleasure of meeting and sharing the time with many fellow walkers.
Personal Reactions
We did not enjoy some of the hills that we had to climb, the mud we had to muddle through. But, these things are what make the Track the adventure that it is. If we had any real complaint; it would be the state to the track from Mandalay Beach to Sandy Beach Road. Most of it was so overgrown that it is very difficult to find the track, let alone walk on it, some of the shrubs that we had to force our way through were very uncomfortable and damaging to old people’s skin. There are sections that are very good, around Peaceful Bay for example. Others noted in the comments books about the overgrown track. It would be a shame if the reputation as a great international acclaimed walk trail to have it ruin by such complaints. I would like to pass on my thanks to all the volunteer workers for the great job they are doing.