Bushwalk a fascinating exercise – despite the rain
The weather forecast for the sandstone range west of Cape Flattery said: “rain out to sea, but not over the adjoining coast”. It was in error, and the heavens opened over our overnight camp at Blackwater Creek.
Bushwalk scenery
Despite what can only be termed inclement conditions, ten walkers ascended a steep and, in parts, rocky ridge to a 450m high plateau near Mt Stuckey.
It was so misty that we had only a very short and poor view of the white silica sands near the cape.
By the time we’d ascended to the edge of the plateau through a band of grass trees and Bowenia spectabilis, heavy rain accompanied by strong winds had begun.
This continued until we commenced our descent around noon.
The grass trees on top of the plateau are known to botanists but, as yet, have not formally been described.
They differ markedly from the better-known and more common species from lower altitudes in being taller, having “strap-like” leaves and deeply fissured trunks.
This undescribed species is known from only the Cooktown area, in only three broad locations: Mt Surprise - Tabletop, Cape Bedford and where we walked.
Bowenia spectabilis is a cycad, which ranges from the Coen district to near Townsville.
John Beasley notes in his Plants of Cape York: The Compact Guide that weevils pollinate this species, which produces separate male and female cones.
Given the cold and heavy wet conditions, we were fortunate to see these unusual plants and ten species of orchids.
Bushwalkers always have a very happy and interesting time. This walk was no different, despite a bit of physical discomfort.
The destination of the next walk is yet to be decided, but is scheduled for Sunday, December 5. Phone Prue on 4069 6527 for information.
By JEANETTE COVACEVICH
Issue 491 Nov 26th 2010
