Text and photos by Danny Crossman
Once, long ago, when we could walk where we liked and even fly interstate, MUAB held its week of walks in the wilds of Tasmania. We based ourselves at two beautiful locations during the week. The first few days were in the Cradle Mountain – Lake St Clair National Park where we stayed at the Derwent Bridge Chalet and Studios. The second half of the week was spent in the Mt Field National Park, accommodated at Giant’s Table and Cottages, Maydena. All the walks were organised expertly by John Langford, our then long-standing President, and Christina McCallum who sadly is no longer with us.
The full first day included a ferry ride to Echo Point and a walk along the shoreline of beautiful Lake
St Clair to Cynthia Bay. The next day included a hike up to the summit of Mt Rufus for the long walkers where we froze while marvelling at the rugged mountain scenery; the short walkers took in some of the lovely panoramas along the Franklin River.
The following day we drove off to our lodgings for the second stage of our trip, stocking up on supplies along the way. On subsequent days we undertook a magnificent walk up Mt Eliza with spectacular views of Lake Pedder, as in the photo above, and an amazing misty walk along the Tarn Shelf and around several mysterious looking lakes. The flora along this track was varied and interesting including pandani palms, pencil pines and many other species.
We subsequently flew home after a wonderful week of exceptional wilderness walks, some of which were quite long and taxing but all very worthwhile. We came away with many photos and memories, some of which are displayed here, showing the enjoyment experienced by our members, a few of whom now walk on only but forever in our hearts.
