COG outing to Mittagong

["Jack and Andrea Holland" <>]

Dear subscribers

 

I am advertising this early trip early as when I went down to Mittagong for a recce last weekend I discovered that accommodation is likely to be very tight due to the tulip festival being on at the same time in nearby Bowral (only 5 km away). 

I know it's still over 2 months away and it may be difficult to commit now, but if you are intending to go I recommend that you contact me soon, which will also help me gauge the level of interest.

 

Jack Holland

 

15-16 September;  Mittagong - overnight accommodated/camping

 

Local COG member, Pamela Morse-Evans will be showing us all her favourite birding spots in this area, which COG has not visited for some time.  We'll be travelling down round lunchtime on Saturday and concentrating on waterbirds that afternoon, first visiting the Cecil Hoskins Reserve where a variety of ducks and other waterbirds as well as possibly the Swamp Harrier should be seen.  If time permits we'll also visit the Wingecarribee Reservoir for waterbirds that prefer deeper water and perhaps see the White-bellied Sea-eagle.

 

After staying in Mittagong overnight we'll spend the morning exploring the Box Vale and other tracks to the north of the town where a range of birds including Origma (Rock Warbler), Pilot Bird and Bassian Thrush are likely to be seen, returning to Canberra mid to late afternoon.  Another attraction at the time of year will be the spring wildflowers, with especially the Waratah likely to be flowering. 

 

Please register your interest with Jack Holland on 6288 7840 or m("environment.gov.au","jack.holland");">, who will be able to provide further information including on the range of accommodation available.  Participants will need to make there own bookings, and it is recommended this is done early as it will be tulip time in the Southern Highlands, with advance bookings already significant.  It is proposed that there will be the opportunity for a meal together on Saturday evening at Pamela's favourite Spanish restaurant.  Participation in either the Saturday or Sunday program will also be possible.