On a spectacularly fine Autumn morning, ten of us set out to walk through the gorge, but unfortunately one of the party had to turn back due to a strained muscle. Birds were hardly plentiful — two male Scarlet Robins early on; and a single Australasian Grebe, still in breeding plumage, at the Blue Tiles picnic ground — being the most notable.
Three days earlier, on a reconnaissance, I saw: a lone Wedge-tailed eagle flying low, while hunting above the far side of the gorge; a number (17+) of AustralianWood Duck swimming in the river and standing around on rocks; and one or two Double-barred Finch, as well as hearing several more of these charming little birds. Combining the observations on both days, and taking into account birds seen or heard in the open reserve at the entrance to the gorge, it all comes to a total of 31 species. I strongly recommend anyone visiting the site to take a look around the reserve as well as exploring the gorge, since the birds frequenting the two areas are by no means all the same kind.
Finally, as this will have been the last COG outing for which I shall act as leader, I wish to take this opportunity to thank all participants, past and present, for their support and friendship.
Richard Mason
Thank you Richard, for all the trips you have lead in the past. Many members have enjoyed them and have valued your knowledgeable leadership.