Several COG members camped at the private property 'Spring Forest', also occupied by 30+ FOC members for an October long weekend of birding. Although a leader for the trip essentially fell through, the weather proved beautiful and the birds were a-plenty. Bird highlights were a Painted Honeyeater (unfortunately not seen by everyone), several Hooded Robins, Apostlebirds, White-browed and a few Masked Woodswallows, Gilbert's Whistlers calling, Yellow-tufted and Fuscous Honeyeaters, and superb views from close range of Superb Parrots. Peaceful Doves called so loudly that they were no longer peaceful. Breeding was apparent for many species, including nest-building White-plumed Honeyeaters and Rainbow Bee-eaters. Floral highlights of the trip were several species of orchids, including Glossodia major, a couple different species of Caladenia, Donkey Orchids-Diuris spp., and the Purple Beard Orchid-Calochilus robertsonii.
Charles Buer