Twenty-five walkers headed off along North Cape Road under the leadership of Haydon Turner with the first rest to examine a Cassytha melantha plant, better known as “Snotty Gobble” or “Dodder”. This plant is a semi-parasitic twiner producing tiny clusters of white flowers in spring and later forming round glutinous fruit edible when soft. Bevan reminisced his school days on KI demonstrating to all how to form snotty gobble balls from the plant. This habit was a form of amusement for many children attending school on KI in the early days.

Skirting around the edge of the Bay of Shoals the group enjoyed excellent views whilst looking toward the highest point Mt Marsden, Cape Rouge and North Cape.

A head wind was encountered for part of the walk as the group trod carefully through some slimy, slippery surfaces, with a small section of rock-hopping for added interest.

Many admired the abundance of shells found in the sand.

The informative leader told tales of the past regarding wells, drowning and former landowners.

After passing a colourful Samphire swamp the main challenge for the walk was to cross the Shoal Bay Creek flowing with about 4 inches (or 10cm) of clear water. Most opted to remove shoes and feel the soothing water on hot feet

Ending the walk car drivers headed toward Bellmore Road for vehicle collection, whilst the rest of the group headed for 19 Dover Court on the edge of the Bay of Shoals for the end of year Christmas BBQ feast.

As usual a magnificent spread of pooled salads, Christmas muffins, gingerbread men, slices, fruit salad, cheese, greens and nibbles complemented the men’s efforts on the barbecue.

The only thing missing was the potato salad because the well known walking club identity known as “Bandy Legs” accidentally removed the wrong container from his home refrigerator and presented a half eaten leg of pork instead, creating a few chuckles.

Thank you to Haydon and Trish for hosting the windup. The venue was ideal.

The next club outing under the leadership of Lyn Bolto and Penny Moon will be an afternoon coastal 7 Km. B grade walk on Sat. January 21st from Smith Bay to Emu Bay. Lily White Legs