Friday 15th to Monday 18th April 2021
Leaders’ Report following the Camp
Easter Camp at Girraween is an NPAQ tradition. The big attraction is being able to camp in a great setting away from “the crowds.” The Leaders went up the day before the camp to set up the essential facilities. Mary Anne, Ron and Jennifer arrived on Thursday. The weekend started with the occasional “Eukey Mist” rolling through camp.
On Friday the plan was to walk from camp across country to Slip Rock. After several hours pushing through low thick bush, we decided to turn back to camp for lunch. In the afternoon, we set off to walk the Underground Creek Walk. Bald Rock Creek was surging through the rocks. We explored the rocky outcrops around this site. Barbara and Luana arrived this day to complete our select group of campers. Saturday we set off to Stanthorpe to walk Quart Pot Creek, visit Mt Marlay Lookout and have lunch at the RSL. We also visited the old Stanthorpe Railway Station to take in the extensive gardens maintained by volunteers.
Sunday, we walked to the Sphinx, Turtle Rock and on our return walk climbed Castle Rock. We were fortunate to have an invitation to spend a couple of hours at the Farr’s cabins for a very enjoyable “happy hour” around their sizable garden fireplace.
On Monday we helped Mary Anne and Luana to break camp before heading off to walk Dr Roberts Waterhole, Granite Arch, Wyberba Track and a two-way walk (due to flooding in Bald Rock Creek) of the Bald Rock Creek Circuit.
On Tuesday, the Leaders, Ron, Jennifer and Barbara packed up and the facilities were dismantled. It had been an enjoyable camp with the occasional campfire, mandatory happy hour and with a few mechanical incidents – flat car batteries and obstreperous tents. This was another enjoyable camp in a special part of OZ.
I am sure there will be fond memories which we will share around the campfire at future camp. From Len and Laurelle, thanks everyone for your company and participation.
2022 Easter Camp Activity Notice
A lot of work and time has been spent by leaders trying to find a new campsite suitable for Easter. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this has narrowed down the venues. Some sites do not allow the erection of tents. At other sites, we would be required to share amenity blocks with large numbers of campers. After careful consideration, Girraween has been chosen for your safety against COVID-19.
Where – private property adjacent to Girraween National Park.
You must be an NPAQ member and all nominations via the NPAQ Website.
Leaders: Len and Laurelle Lowry and other NPAQ leaders.
The campsite is a flat area on private property with easy access for vehicles. You must be self-sufficient.
A variety of activities will be arranged to cater to all members and to suit all fitness levels. These easy to hard walks will vary from several hours to full-day walks. Self-drive tours of the district will be provided for any non-walkers.
Members who would like to attend but do not have camping gear can book accommodation in the district. A sample of accommodation venues, you would need to book early.
https://girraweenlodge.com.au/
http://www.sommervillevalley.com.au/
The total cost is $45.00 per person, paid in two separate transactions. Payment instructions and other information will be supplied after nominating.
This activity will be conducted in keeping with Queensland Health Department Covid-19 guidelines current at the time of the camp.