As Canberra birdwatchers will be familiar with all the places shown in this series, it is intended for the out-of-town list member, who might appreciate a little context for reports mentioning interesting-sounding but unknown locations. At Shepherds Lookout the vista that presents itself is of the Murrumbidgee River on its majestic course from the Snowy Mountains to the irrigated holdings of the Riverina and thence to its junction with the Murray. At this point the river flows through the ACT, coming close to the western suburbs of Canberra’s northern province of Belconnen. We are here close to the NW boundary of the ACT, the distant hills being in New South Wales. Nearby, but not shown, although just visible to the left from the viewing platform, is the Lower Molonglo Sewage Treatment Plant, a state-of-the-art and important component of the civic amenities of the Canberra community. Shepherds lookout is a spot for the North Canberra birdwatcher, who is likely to call in here at least every month. It is less well-known to their counterparts in South Canberra. Indeed the South Tuggeranong photography group recently had a slide presentation devoted to a visit here by one well-travelled member. As is evident from this snap, the spot is noted for the raptors that can usually be found here.
