DUE TO FORECAST RAIN ON THE 22ND, THIS EVENT IS POSPONED TWO WEEKS TO THE 5TH OF NOVEMBER.
Spring is here, so time to get out in the bush for a scenic walk and picnic by the water. The event takes place in the open area next to the suspension bridge at the tidal limit of Piles Creek and runs from 12 noon to 2pm.
My recommended access route is from the Girrakool car park just south of Kariong, but note this is a moderately steep descent with a T3 rating. Take the old Pacific Highway and follow Quarry Road under the M1 to the park entrance. Note that there's a parking fee of $8 per vehicle and the gate closes at 5pm. I'll be at the trail head at 10:30am to join any takers on a leisurely walk down the western side of the Piles Creek Loop through subtropical rainforest and impressive rock features.
If you prefer the easier (T2) way in, park on the Gosford side of the Mooney Mooney Creek bridge on the Old Pacific Highway (not the M1!) and follow the Great North Walk for a couple of kilometres along the bank of the creek.
The picnic facilities at GZ are spartan (when I checked, there was just a makeshift log seat and a fire pit), so bring water, a rug to sit on and everything you need for lunch. High tide will be around 12:40pm and the water is plenty deep enough for a swim, with a small sandy beach providing good access.
For the return walk to the Girrakool car park, I suggest the eastern track, giving a different perspective on the gully and ending at the top of an impressive waterfall.
There's no shelter at GZ, so if it's wet it'll be best to postone it to another date. Check this page on the morning of the event if in any doubt.
