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Hi all, I recieved news last night (19th) of the
reappearence of the Shoveler near Grafton. So I was down there again today with
Darryl Price, not A.S. this time, for my second attempt. No worries, the bird
was resting on a bank in the swamp where seen previously. A.S. by the way was
approx. 3.5hrs behind and frantic. No worries he had got it by mid-afternoon in
the same spot, plus a female Australian Shelduck performing a fly-past for good
measure.
I have been asked to put some details out; once in Grafton set
out on the Casino Road (Summerland Way) and just a little way out of town turn
right into Lawrence Road. Follow this road all the way into Lawrence (approx. 25
kilometres), the Clarence River will be on your right all the way. Go through
the small township, don't turn to the right for Maclean, go straight ahead,
signposted Casino. Go down this road for approx. 5 Klms till you come across
Tully Morgan road off to the right, this is a well graded dirt road. Go down
this road approx. 3 KILOMETRES and there will be a large lagoon to your right.
Near the fence will be some elevated ground, set your scope on this and aim for
the small banks or islets in the centre.
Please don't attempt to cross the paddock as the birds here
show obvious signs of local shooting, they are very flighty and you will only
spoil it for the travel weary Melbournians. Sorry Tom S, had to get that one in.
A good pair of 10X bins will pick it up easy enough but obviously a scope is
preferable. Good luck - Paul Walbridge.
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