- Start date: 25 July 2013
- Age When Completed: 66
- Direction Walked: South to North
General Comments
Lots of rain and strong winds resulting in many trees down across the Track in forested areas. The penalty for setting off at the start of the wettest/windiest late winter and spring in many years. Ideal cool temperatures for walking, a bit too chilly at times. Diversion in place around Mazzoletti Beach, Lake Maringup and Blackwood Shelters. Took a week off for a family reunion after Woolbales.
Food/Supplies Comments
My wife Carol re-supplied me and joined me for rest days in Pemberton and Collie. We dis food drops at Walpole, Dwellingup and North Bannister.
Favourite Section
Giants - Frankland. Great shelter in fantastic location at Frankland.
Highlights
Started to get fit and really enjoy the walk once my sore heels improved from Collie onward. All the streams/creeks and rivers were flowing strongly and countryside looking wonderful especially round Balingup and the hills closer to Perth. Wildflowers and orchids everywhere.
Personal Reactions
My first major project since retiring from work. A complete change in lifestyle. Track life is very simple. Walk, suffer a little, get to shelter, remove backpack, levitate, eat, sleep, meet nice people.
Wildlife
Whales around West Cape area, a seal frolicking in the surf just off Mandalay Beach, heaps of kangaroos, a few emus including one with several chicks, a couple of possums at White Horse shelter.
Your Best Equipment
Light weight warm down sleeping bag and self inflating mat.
Your Worst Equipment
Feet. Sore hills. Stretching, Nurofen and 2 days rest eventually relieved the symptoms.
Advice for Others
Take it easy. When you as old and smelly as I am, you need to have rest days.