During Easter 1998 a large (21-person) contingent of COG members and visitors camped on a privately owned, 4000-acre mixed farming property, 'Island View', near Eugowra which is on the Orange-Forbes road. Although the SW Slopes of NSW were suffering from the severe drought, 'Island View' formed an excellent base for birding that part of the state. At the campsite and environs we observed some 68 species, including quintessential inland species such as Peaceful Doves, Variegated Fairy-wrens, Striped Honeyeaters and babblers. Highlights around the campsite included the beautiful Red-capped and Hooded Robins and Turquoise Parrots. One participant observed what he identified as Rock Heifers, but they were more bovine than avian!
On Saturday morning we visited the nearby Backyamma State Forest and environs, where we added seven more species, including a pair of Black Falcons. Lunch at Gum Swamp, Forbes, added another 39 species to the list, including a Sea-Eagle far from home, lots of Pink-ears and (ugh) Rock Doves. In convoy, led by Ian Fraser, we drove around in the Bogan Gate area searching for the Grey Falcon which reputedly inhabit the area, sans success. Nonetheless, those of our party infatuated with Ben Hall the bushranger made a tearful visit to the place where the coppers shot and killed him in the most cowardly manner. There we saw a Blue Bonnet. Mieke's bilby was much enjoyed on Saturday night and was followed, after the bird call, by the singing of 'Eugowra Rocks': Ben Hall is not the only prominent bushranger in that area.
Easter Sunday had us travelling north to the new Goobang National Park: awfully dry. A low point was the lunch of one birder: Saos and spam, flavoured with 'cajun spices'. The Yellow-tufted HEs made up for that. The Peak Hill mine added two raptor species to the list. While most left for home on Monday morning, others were able to stay longer and explore Nangar National Park, etc. Overall, we observed some 130 species and a particularly enjoyable time was had by all. Steve and Helen Stephinson did a great job in managing the trip, really appreciated by all participants.
David McDonald