Sixteen COG members gathered at Tathra Beach Motor Village the evening of 25 February for an early Saturday start to canoeing at Brogo Dam in Wadbilliga National Park. The water level was low, but the surface was glass-like and the reflections mirrored the forested landscape. Water dragons seemed ubiquitous and a few lace monitors were also present as we searched the inlets for the entrance to the channel with cliffs supporting rock orchids (October blossoms unfortunately).
Notable sightings included Azure Kingfishers (close, long looks), Whistling Kites, a Black-fronted Dotterel, and a Darter, as Wedge-tailed Eagles wheeled overhead. After returning to the boat launch, most participants cooled off with a refreshing plunge. During lunch a couple of Black-faced Monarchs were sighted, and then we proceeded to a nearby 'bush heritage block'. This walk "fizzled" as rainstorms arrived. The rain let up after we returned to the campsite and everyone enjoyed their BBQ dinners and socialised over wine. After dark a group ventured back into the nearby bush, behind David McDonald's spotlight, observing a Tawny Frogmouth and a Ringtail Possum.
Sunday morning the COG group joined the Far South Coast Birdwatchers for a walk in the Tathra bush led by Barbara Jones and Jim Shields. Interesting sightings included several White-headed Pigeons, Rufous Fantail, Leaden Flycatcher, and Glossy Black Cockatoo feeding trees (no birds were present).
Overall, about 50 species were tabulated including campsite observations of Peaceful Dove and Wonga Pigeon with a Superb Lyrebird calling nearby. Appreciation is expressed to Chris Bellamy for coordinating the events, confirming reservations, and making sure everything occurred as scheduled.
Charles Buer