Welcome to the Alexandra Harrier and Walkers Club Weekly Run Reports

2006 Season

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Auroral Gaze - Bendigo Diggings Saturday 9 September, 2006
By Whats on Now?

We met at 1.00pm at Pioneer Park to car pool to Bendigo.  Yet another nice day.  Don’t listen to the weather forecast – if it’s a Harrier Day, then it will be a good day.  Total of 30 people today – 26 walkers and 4 runners.

 Numbers down due to the Dunedin Marathon, and some tramping down south.  The walkers split into three groups, all had time to check out the mine shafts and buildings, and returned for afternoon tea at 3.30pm

 The runners were a good mix of A to D packs.  We had time to look around, and take in the views and check out the newly marked DOC track.  It was nice to have Gary puffing along with the rest of us.  Back at 3.45.  Home made scones and muffins and squares, clean up and back to the Fat Badger for chips and drinks, and some in-house entertainment.  Anyone who wasn’t there missed a great day out.

Jackson’s at Auripo Road

Saturday 2 September, 2006
By Bended Knee

A smaller than usual turn out today of 36 fine athletes enjoyed a warm and windy day in the hills.  Base camp was at Jackson’s homestead where we demolished a delicious afternoon tea created by the walking folk.

Walking groups 1 and 2 took the same route but at slightly different speeds – this route was the reverse of last year, cross country to the viaduct and downhill through the tunnels on the Rail Trail, before traversing up and over the farm hills and returning to the homestead.  Group 1 started with 15, losing one Barb to Gary’s D pack, thereby reducing to 14.  They arrived back uncharacteristically early, before the A pack runners, so perhaps need to increase the duration of their trek to avoid this unusual occurrence happening again.  (Or was it the enthusiastic dash to the cute longdrop which caused the shortfall).

Max’s No.2 group had 9 walkers and arrived back at 3.30.

Group 3 walkers, with 4 people did a there and back walk over the farm, onto the Rail Trail through the two tunnels, then returned the same way, talking continuously!

A and B pack runners also did the reverse of last year’s run.  There were less brambles (disappointment about this?) and a wee grumble there was not enough time for a second cuppa.  This, of course, is what happens if you are late back!  They were a happy band of seven (dwarfs).

Pam and Chris Wi completed their C pack run in 1 hour 10 mins.  Their comment was they could have done with another 20 mins to get the timing right.  Perhaps the sight of the marshmallow cake stopped them from adding in another quick circuit.

The D pack of 3 followed the walkers, charging through on white steeds to steal a fair maiden from the walking ranks.

Roxburgh, that dam run and walk

Saturday 26 August, 2006
By A Farmer

Local Walks

Saturday 12 August, 2006
 By Bended Knee

Seventeen runners, 33 walkers and 4 dogs met at the Tucker Hill, Little Valley, Graveyard Gully Roads junction, on a fine day, occasionally punctuated by freezing wind and rain, which at the end of the day drove the group slightly prematurely to the Fat Badger where they had a self catered afternoon tea. No complimentary chips were offered.

A pack had 5 runners. They ran up the Poo Track and over the second ridge into Little Valley Rd. Across the road to the water race tracks, then down to Manorburn Dam, and returned via the Rail Trail. This pack was amazed at the number and variety of tracks in them there hills.

B pack, also with 5 runners, headed off up the Poo Valley Track, but when they got to Little Valley Rd headed back towards Alex on a track north of the road, made their way to Old Coach Rd, and finally down the track behind the clock. Enjoyable run.

C pack, 5 runners lead by Pam, ran up Dave’s Domain, feeling the impact of a cutting wind from behind. At the ridge they turned left above Little Valley Rd, across country to the top of Rocky Gully, a short burst on Little Valley Rd, right to a ridge heading up Manuherikia Valley, then down, down, down to cross the Rail Trail and a racing finish on Tucker Hill Rd. This pleasure/pain trip took precisely 1 hour and 47mins.

D pack runners, two, who after their adventures in the hills arrived back spot on at 3.30pm, also went up Poo Valley, and followed the arrows and markers winding up the valley. They followed the powerline track to the last pole, where Gary resisted the urge to throw his jacket over the powerline and do a James Bond to get to the other side of the valley. The alternative (which these 2 intrepid athletes took) was to fight their way down into Rocky Gully, at the back of the vineyard for their very punctual return.

Mountain Goats, 13 walkers plus Reggie and CJ, were joined today by Janice, who was checking to make sure the group walked as well as talked (as Dave has always assured her they do). They drove to Graveyard Gully carpark, then walked up to the trig, returning the same way. They saw a family of goats (are you kidding??) No misadventures, or is that 6 Miss Adventures?

Group 2 walkers, sixteen, were led by Russell who stood in for Max. They walked up the valley behind the clock, over Little Valley Rd onto the ridge, along to the gravel pit, onto the Rail Trail, and back along River Rd. A relaxed and enjoyable 2 hour circuit.

Group 3 walkers went up the Rail Trail to Galloway and back, then up Tucker Hill Rd, onwards to Shakey Bridge Café (did they stop for a coffee?) and back to the carpark. They had a small hailstorm, and decided to shelter in a hollowed out cave in a rock, but Esther (the dog) wasn’t too happy. Encountered a few motorbikes, but they didn’t decrease the enjoyment! Jill won the raffle (drawn at the pub), a delectable looking carrot cake created by Isobel.

 

Rough Ridge Ramble

Saturday 5 August 2006
By Whats On Now?

“A” Pack runners had 4 runners.  A stunning warm and calm day.  A reasonable slog up to the top (especially the last 30 minutes).  Beautiful 360 degree views over Poolburn and the Maniototo.  A great afternoon’s run (once its over!!).

 “B” Pack runners had 4.  A perfect day.  Same run as the A pack except a small portion cut off.

 “D” Pack runners had two, ably led by Leo van Boxtel.  Staggered up the hill – climbed up the west face, stopping for an oxygen/acclimatisation stop.  Saw different coloured goats meeting the A pack.  Young goats going down hill, old goats going uphill.  Faster second half (could run downhill).  Brilliant winter’s day, great views.

 “W1” walkers had eleven in the pack.  All walkers raved about the walk and stunning views.  Same route as the B and D pack runners.  Looking back at Poolburn Valley it is no wonder some say the name comes from the fact that there are pools of water all over the valley.

 “W2” walkers were Max’s group.  This group got a ride up the hill for a small distance.  Given the terrain and distance you must take your hat off to the tenacity of some brave souls who stuck with it and made it all the way.  This was not a walk for the faint hearted.

 “W3” walkers led by Jill Paulin had four in the pack.  A great walk with hills. Followed the first two packs for some of the way and then sidled across the hill and back down.

 This venue had something for everybody, and everybody was well pleased with what they achieved.  Late return to the Fat Badger for a well deserved drink and chat.

Mrs Heron’s Cottage
Big Sunday Walk - Sunday 23 July
By Whats On Now?
On Sunday 23rd July nine Harriers and their guide Judy set out at 9.30am to drive to Gorge Creek for a walk. We stopped just up the hill beyond Gorge Creek and walked across farm land towards Roxburgh for about half an hour, looking at the ruins of an old miners hut on the way, then followed a track down to Lake Roxburgh. After a total of 2 hours walking we found Mrs Heron’s cottage. The planting around it isn’t what it was before a fire went through, but the cottage was interesting. It was used as a boarding house during, although it would have been a bit small for most people’s liking. It comprises of three rooms, T&G Ceilings, a Shacklock coal range and fireplace. This hut was originally used during the depression, although has had many (and often illegal) uses since.

We then ventured upstream to Gorge Creek, to have a look at an old hermits dwelling. He utilized an old gold miner’s cliff overhang for a garage for his motor-bike, had an area where he had a shower etc set up, and his own dwelling consisted of an overhang with quite a spectacular view of the gorge. The hermit lived here as recently as 1985 having been there for a total of 20 years in all, and we have learnt that he was in fact a Beekeeper, and that whenever he came to town he was always neatly dressed in a suit. He had had a glass frontage on the cave, and pine needles (all neatly in rows) for flooring and bedding. Unfortunately the fires a few years ago have damaged this area also, but it was very interesting.

We also saw the concrete foundations of an old power station. We understand the turbine is now at the station at Fraser Domain.

The most impressive of all was the fact that it was a longish walk, and over some difficult terrain, and all who went managed it very well. I think some of them surprised themselves. We arrived home at about 4.15.

Turkey of the day goes to Jacquie who placed her round bag over a fence on a very steep bank, and almost lost it into the river. Fortunately it eventually stopped rolling and while the rest of her harrier mates stood staring and laughing, her Monday Walking Group friend (Judy) ran after it and retrieved it for her.

Bannockburn Dig
Bannockburn Diggings - Saturday 15 July
By Whats On Now?

“A/B” pack runners (10 runners) led by John and Allen who were left behind at the beginning while they set up afternoon tea, ran up through the diggings, through Stewart Town, down Hall Road, then cross country following an irrigation race to Old School Road, back past the start of the “Carricktown Track”, back to Bannockburn Road, and return to bus, managing to pass the hotel without stopping.

“D” pack runners (2) went up through the sluicings to Stewart Town, turned right and ran over a few hills and back again, then back down the Sluicings Track loop, taking a detour or two on the way down. “High enough for lovely views, low enough we could run it, steep enough we got a glow on, and we got LOST!! Never mind, we made it back in time for smoko”.

“W1” walkers (15 walkers) led by Carrie took the same route as the “D” runners, with one less detour on the way home. “Mud on the track back – we all gained a kilo on our shoes – lucky the loop track had a stream to clean our shoes in! Beautiful day – 90% had to strip in the heat!

“W2” walkers (14 walkers) led by Max went through the sluicings to Stewart Town. Exit to Hall Road and back through Bannockburn Township with a diversion to the camping ground to use the toilets.

“W3” Walkers (3 walkers). Stewart Town with main group and returned via “Main Loop” – 1.5 hrs – deviated on way back and found every mud hole possible but all three of them remained UPRIGHT! Poor cleaner in the bus though. The afternoon tea was just great and by the time they returned they all felt lovely and warm.

A bonus for those who went to the clubrooms afterwards, The Fat Badger had drink bottles to give away.

Northburn Muster
Northburn Station - Saturday 8 July
By Whats On Now?

“A/B” Packs consisting of 5 runners each took the same route, but at a different pace. A steep constant climb up a nice new farm track at the start, down a gully, and climb up still further. Once they were looking down on the sun, they decided it was time to dropped down a DOC track to Devils Creek, and return to afternoon tea via the road, cutting through a vineyard to finish. All in all, a beautiful day, and an excellent and challenging run.

“C” Pack runners weren’t asked for a report. This group consisted of a group of friends and ex members having a reunion. Lots of talking and laughing while they ran.

“D” Pack runners were a group of two. Followed the A,B,C pack up the hill, across the gully, then were cunning enough to cut across a Lucerne paddock, back down to Devil’s Creek, along a track through the vineyard and back to the bus. “Mother Duck Christine talked to the white ducks, who were ready to follow her home”. I wonder, did she have duck for tea that night?

“W1” Walkers (15 people) had a very cruisy walk up the ridge, down into the Gully, up over the paddocks. A much warmer day than last week. Worth noting – more men than women on this walk – a first?

“W2” walking group consisting of seven people and led by Dot followed a low track, and met up with the second walking group and walked back through the vineyard. “Nice day, nice walk”.

Weir Are We
Fraser Weir – Saturday 1 July 2006
By Whats On Now?

“A/B” Pack runners had 7 people who ran to Fraser Weir, up the hill, through the sheep yards to the Pylon Road and back down the Lookout Road. It was reported that it was frosty, icy and a fresh breeze.

“C & D” Pack runners started together until they got to the Weir, where the two “D” pack members returned the same way. The “C” Pack, consisting of three runners report that “We climbed and climbed and climbed, waved goodbye to Mike and Sue and returned for a cup of tea along with the rest of you.” Basically the same run as the “A” and “B” pack, but at a more sedate pace.

The “W1” walking group consisting of 23 walkers went up the Weir Road, but turned off much earlier and climbed to the Lookout Road and return. “A fab day but slippery in places”.

The “W2” walking group consisting of 6 people walked through Sunbry Park Orchard to the Clyde/Alex River Track, to the Clyde Bridge and return. Seems they did a rubbish collection on the way picking up aluminium cans.

It has been suggested that we have afternoon tea at Sunbury Park next year, where it will be much warmer, because it will still be in the sun.

O2O
Ophir to Olrig Station - Saturday 24 June
By Medicine Man

The week of the winter solstice - the Saturday saw walkers wandering through the hills from Ophir to Olrig.

The main group of 17 started walking at approximately 11.30 am. and arrived at the Olrig Station shearing sheds to find the bus and afternoon tea some 4 hours later. This, the No 1 walking group led by Elva, had time to take in the awesome views with fresh snow on the mountains plus spectacular rock formations with animal like shapes.

The remainder of the club, boarded the bus at 12.30 pm., and headed out to Ophir. They dropped the 2nd walking group at the Rail Trail crossing on the hill past Chatto Creek. This group of 10 led by Jill S. , had a used water problem as they trekked along the Rail Trail - lack of cover for comfort stops. The day was fine and sunny with no wind, and this group took 2 1/4 hours to walk to Olrig Station. Four of them decided they were going to get back to the woolsheds too early so took a long-cut up the hills to meet up with some of the runners on the track from Ophir.

At Ophir runner and bikers got off the bus. The AB running pack of 7 led by President Allen, followed the same route as the first walking group, but could not find the cafe. The walkers had eaten their lunches and moved on before the runners caught up with them. The 2 D pack runner had also departed before the bus arrived. The cyclists, 4 in number led by Linda, found the mud tough going and walked up the first hill. They did not manage to overtake the AB runners as they took the wrong track and headed off in the wrong direction...

The most important group of walkers, the bus drivers pack of 3 included the walking wounded, who headed back to Olrig Station to park the bus and checked that the zip was on. They then walked along the rail trail towards Chatto Creek to meet Jill's group, which had splintered into three groups. The bus drivers pack walked up to the bridge over the Manuherikia and on the return journey picked the tail end Charlie with cracked ribs from Jill's group for the walk back to the Bus.


Lakeside Lope
McNulty Inlet to Bannockburn - Saturday 17 June 2006
By Depac Leda

17 June and the Harrier outing was scheduled for Mt Rosa at Gibbston. Due to the pessimistic weather report of snow, the club captain decided a change of venue was in order.

It was a fine fresh invigorating winters day, the sun shining with a light southerly at our backs. Suddenly 24 walkers found themselves being ejected from the bus, just before the Bannockburn bridge, and told they could catch the bus again at the Boat club rooms at McNulty inlet. So Barb Hall led the walkers on a well formed lakeside track, all the way round Lake Dunstan to McNulty inlet, a track that many had not known existed at all. It was a good flatish (read undulating) walk achievable by all grades of walkers. They even claimed that there was no need for the abseiling gear to cross the 2 culverts.

Meantime the runners stayed on the bus to McNulty inlet. There the A/B pack of 7 were told they had to run back to the Bannockburn bridge and then follow the walkers track. So they went back to Cromwell, through the greenways before heading out to Barry Ave and Bannockburn. Then they followed the undulating lakeside track back to McNulty inlet.

The D pack of 3 runners followed behind the A/B pack out to Barry Ave before cutting down a road near the sewerage ponds, to join onto the lakeside track and return. They had no excuse to walk up the hills as they didn’t find any hills to climb up. Hardly a harrier outing without a couple of hills.

Our thanks to Bryan Hall for boiling the billy and opening the garage so we could have a cuppa out of the breeze. It turned out the weather was not as bad as forecast and we could have gone to Gibbston. But then we wouldn’t have found out about the track around Lake Dunstan.

Remember our Turkey (award) does not want to spend it’s time in the back of the trailer or bus. It is always on the lookout for a feed and warm house to stay in. So if you notice something, don’t keep it quiet, blab about it so that some turkey gets to take the turkey home.


Makarora Weekend
Saturday 10 - Sunday 11 June
By Whats On Now?

On the weekend of 10-11 June we had our Annual Weekend Away. This is a great bonding time with fellow harriers and walkers, getting to know them and their partners. Saturday 8am, nice morning at the bus depot. Twenty eight, all aboard, “go west we said”. We arrived at Makarora at 11.00am, in time to unpack, have lunch and get ready for our run. The A Frame Units were well equipped, nice and warm, with a shower and toilet. Each unit sleeps up to 10. Kitchen facilities and party room were also good, and we had them to ourselves.

The run and walking track was a bit steep, so some did a road run back to Makarora, while others either carried on, or ran up and did some of the Bridle Track.

We were showered and ready for pre-dinner drinks and nibbles by 4pm, dressed in our “M” theme. Then to the meal at 6-ish. The food was excellent. The locals were a bit puzzled with our dress, especially when Ken walked in dressed as a mattress. Lots of joke telling, and then back to after dinner drinks and dancing. We also had a lesson on Morris Dancing thanks to Phil. The ladies put on a “Makarora Mammary Mayhem” skit. You had to be there to believe it.

We awoke to West Coast rain on Sunday. It was too wet to run or walk so we went back to Wanaka for a leisurely 2-hour lunch, and home about 3.00pm.

For a few photos, check out the photo gallery

Mike’s Magical Mystery Tour
Hawkdun Water Race - Saturday 27 May 2006
By Depac Leda

Well apparently I didn’t tell enough outrageous lies for last week’s run report. For punishment I have to have another go this week.
The bus set off at the earlier time of 1pm for our mystery destination. We got past Omakau so St. Bathans or Naseby perhaps. We turned off onto the loop road, aha so it is St. Bathans. But no,before we get there we turn onto Hawkdun Runs road. The Hawkdun range don’t look far away from the road, but on and on the bus continues into nowhere. We must be getting close to the middle of nowhere as eventually we run out of road and find a river too big to drive through.

It is now 2.30pm and club captain Mike gives the instructions, cross the river, you can try the bridge, then head over there and over to the water race and be back in an hour.

It was in surprisingly mild conditions that we set off for the bridge, only to discover that to get onto the bridge we have to go through a water hazard to start with. By the time everyone is across the river and up to the sheep yards, the walkers have headed right and the runners to the left. Shouts of “walkers wrong way” went unheeded.

The A/B running pack of 5 with a D pack of 1 following behind, went left following the track towards the Oamarama Saddle, crossing several streams. The A/B pack continued on to the water race, following the race before dropping down the hill back to the bus.

The wooses in the C pack went right, trying to keep their feet dry, running through the tussocks to the water race, before dropping back to the bus. Perhaps they forgot they would get their feet wet again on the other side of the bridge.

Barbera (sic) Hall led the A walking pack of 26 to the track right of the sheep yards onto the Oteake Conservation area access track. Perhaps she needs to teach Ken how to spell her name, or perhaps he should just call her Barb. Anyway they carried on to the water race before returning down the access track to to the bus. They had some great views of Falls dam and surrounds.

Max led the B walking pack behind Barb’s pack, before returning through the tussock and streams back to the bus. They say sheep are not that bright in the intelligence stakes, so it was no great surprise to discover the sheep stopping to look at the walkers. But does it mean anything when the walkers stop to look at the sheep watching them?

It was fascinating to watch different people cross the water ways. Some plowed straight through, others take shoes and socks off, others try to creep along the fence line in an attempt to keep dry feet.

Meantime JillP led the C walking pack along a stock track, remaining on the bus side of the river. They too headed downstream to take in views of Falls Dam. They also did their best to keep dry feet. All packs commented that they would have liked more time to run and walk in this area.

Finally we climbed aboard the bus, eventually making Alexandra about 5.45pm, surprised to find the streets wet after rain. Time for some liquid refreshment at the Fat Badger, time to reflect on another enjoyable harrier outing.

I didn’t see the turkey of the week award, I hope the doc’s feeding it well. I’m sure there are some worthy recipients just waiting to get their hands on it.


A Running Tail
Sheepshead to Fruitlands - Saturday 20 May 2006
By Depac Leda

It was a dark and stormy night, well okay it was an grey overcast afternoon, an invigorating refreshing day ( read jolly chilly ) for a harrier walk and run. This did not deter over 50 runners and walkers from heading to Mitchell's cottage Fruitlands, about 16km south of Alexandra.

The runners and walkers all followed the same general course, starting from Butchers dam along Conroys road and on up Sheepshead road, across the valley and down to Mitchell's cottage.

The A and B walking packs left early to get through on time with 25 walkers taking this longer walk. Led by Carrie and Elva they reported no dramas on their journey to Fruitlands. Not even a sheep for Russ to rescue this week, despite traveling up Sheeepshead road. There were those who paced the walk out to get to a cuppa as soon as possible, whilst others took their time to enjoy those breath taking Central Otago views we take for granted.

Meantime, a group of 8 walkers traveled out in the bus to Mitchell's Cottage, before heading up the hills, eventually meeting up with the A & B walking packs. On their journey they mentioned seeing 20 horses, but no mention was made of seeing a bunch of silly old goats. I was sure there were some goats about on Saturday afternoon.

Ten A & B pack runners took the higher track off Sheepshead road, before dropping down to Mitchell's cottage. Both packs mentioned being back early for afternoon tea. Perhaps they should have extended their run and gone a bit further up to play in the snow.

The C pack of 5 basically followed the A/B pack to Mitchell's cottage. What was surprising was they were led by Janice this week and didn't get lost !

The D pack of 2 followed the walking packs, finally managing to catch them just before Mitchell's cottage.

All looked forward to a hot cuppa after their run and walk, with some taking the time to explore the fine example of stone masonry at the cottage. It doesn't take much to gain the turkey of the week award, this week Greg was the winner, simply for winning the raffle and not realizing it, because he had wandered off.

Then it was time to head to the Fat Badger to replace those essential fluids. What a change this year to enter a brightly lit and warm venue, so much more inviting to stay .

Next week, the harrier tale resumes with a mystery venue for some.

A reminder from the treasurer that subs are due by the end of the month. Also that we are the "Alexandra Harrier & Walkers Club" and that cheques should be made out to this . We have been fortunate that our bank has accepted many variations of this so far. Also any runners wishing to register this year , should contact the treasurer with Name,address, phone no., email and date of birth details. Registration is being done by email to Athletics Otago this year and registration numbers will be posted direct to runners.


Roaring Meg
Saturday, 13 May
By Helleva Climb

 On a markedly overcast and chilly day the bus left Alexandra at the early start time of 1 pm.  Following pick-ups at Boundary Road and "the Big Fruit" in Cromwell we headed into the sunshine and a few remnants of autumnal colour at Roaring Meg. 

 Before we headed off Max gave us a short history of the Roaring Meg reserve being a route that Southland-based Maori used to access the Cardrona Valley before heading to the West Coast in pursuit of pounamu.  Loved the red headed Barmaid story Max!

 All runners and walkers (37 in total) headed off up the steep "goat track" at the side of the reserve where the bus was parked.  Barry remained behind to guard the bus.  The fastest runners left the walkers in their dust, amidst much heavy breathing.  On reaching the end of the goat track we all proceeded along the power station gravel access road which climbed very steadily upwards.

 Of the 11 runners, the fastest ones managed to get up to around 800 metres (which must have been not too far below the dusting of snow). Some ran 15 minutes past the end of the road, and others ran 10 minutes past the creek.  Not sure about the D pack (Gary and Christine) but they assured us that they'd been to the power house!  As for the others, well some claimed to have looked into the power house and the dam from on high, whilst others saw a goat.  One person even saw a hare!  All the runners thoroughly enjoyed the downhill return run.

 As far as the walkers were concerned, Barbara's A group of 8 got as far as the power station, however, no time to go down for a look see.  Carrie set the fast pace yet again with Ken getting a bit waylaid at one stage!!!  A great steady consistent climb which sure tested the old tickers.  Goat track option for the guys on the return trip, whilst the women chose the access road.  

 Max's B group of 11 turned left off the access road to the bridge and then walked up the hill to the pipeline and back again.  Some returned to the reserve via the road whilst others negotiated the "goat track".    

 Dot's C group of 7 followed the same route as Max but chose to turn around at the bridge and return via the road.

 All in all, a great day was had by all.  A first time walk for many of us who had often whizzed past the reserve in the car, but never had the chance to check it out.  Yummy afternoon tea by the runners.  Many thanks to John for driving the bus and handling the dodgy gears so well.  

Fraser D Loop
Fraser Dam Road to Fraser Domain, Earnscleugh - Saturday 6 May 2006
By The Beez Kneez

An absolutely Beautiful Autumn day! There were people swapping groups all over the place.

According to the B running pack led by John Robinson, the A's run like old men and they caught up with them going up Fraser Road to the airstrip. Mike led the A's and felt a bit challenged by the B's by all accounts. They all went cross-country then down a steep road to Fraser Domain.

The C's and D's started out together. They lost Gary along the way, but picked up three others -- Walkers? Well, Ken was, as he headed up to Sugar loaf for a look-see with the C-runners group, but his A-walking group, led by Barbara, decided there was not enough time for that and decided to plod on. There was much discussion over which ridge to follow down and they finally followed Russell's lead and went one too far over making them a little late back for afternoon tea. And, Ken beating them back by half an hour with the C's dead on time as was Gary!

The B walking group lead by Max followed the pylon track, through Summerfruit Orchard and Redbank to the Domain. They lost Bruce who stopped for a light up and dropped back to the C-walkers to join his girlfriend. This group led by Dot, followed the B group but dropped out onto Strode Road and then onto the Domain.

Afternoon tea, as usual, was magnificent, plentiful and welcomed by all!


Golden Progress Mine
Oturehua - Saturday 29 April 2006
By Al Captian

It was an early start for all, catching the bus at 1pm. Max gave a great informative historic spiel about Golden Progress Mine. Everyone start from gate at Reef Rd everyone trotted and walked up to Golden progress mine. Then Mike led seven As on up to North Rough Ridge, followed 4wd track south to microwave & cell repeater site. Where they enjoyed the awesome views of the Maniototo and Ida Valleys and beyond. then cross country on sheep tracks down to rail trail near Idaburn Dam, back along rail trail to bus for tea. John Robinson led 5Bs following As, but didn't go to cell site.

Gary's 3Ds followed As & Bs up to pylon track and followed this down to Oturehua, then back along rail trial to bus.

But where have all the C packers gone? We haven't had any C packers turn up for a few weeks now!!

13 Walking Aces led by Barbara went up through mine via poppet and then up the hill behind. They found track but decided to go further(nearly to top), then along a wee bit and down a ridge behind Oturehua- cut back down through a bull paddock (luckily they stayed at their end and left these intrepid walkers be) for short walk along rail trail and road to bus.

Max led six wondrous women and young 13 month old Michael (who was backpacked by his mum) over some reasonably flat tracks leading on to the sheep tracked hill. Lots of great rocks to appreciate the views from.

A total of 36 people enjoyed an awesome afternoon tea provided by the runners and committee.


Big Sunday Walk
Prophets Rock - Sunday 23 April 2006
By Al Captian

Allen Hansen led six on Barbara's Big Sunday Walk to Prophets Rock. Starting at Omeo Gully, they slogged up the DOC track to Prophets Rock for lunch and returned via a steeper track.

It was very very windy, one step forward and two sideways. Barb's glasses blew off twice. Flying sheep pellets pelted them.

Great walk and views in the right weather. 4.5 hours return.


Little Valley Scramble
Matangi Station, Little Valley - Saturday 22 April 2006
By Al Captian

Following on from the swapped 8th & 22nd April scheduled events because of conflict with motorbike rally at Little Valley on 8th April! Barbara led the eight intrepid walking Aces on an early 12:30pm start from Tucker Hill car park. Off at a cracking pace up Pooh Gully (Graveyard Gully) then up Poplar Gully to Trig station and on to the Matangi Station Woolshed at Little Valley making good time arriving at 3:15pm for a well deserved cuppa.

A full hardy pack of five As were led by John Watson. Also at an early start time of 1pm left from Pioneer Park up Graveyard Gully to Red Gate then on to woolshed. Everyone else caught the bus at the normal time of 1:30pm. Max and the B walkers got off bus half way to Little Valley. Ambled and scrambled cross country to Trig station and on to the woolshed arriving between 3:30- 3:45pm Steve Tohill led three B's from Matangi woolshed over the hill through hay paddock on old wagon road and down to the Valley then back on Little Valley Rd back to woolshed. There was no C pack.

Gary's three Ds trotted up track past Matangi homestead to last gate. Then cross-country over ridge to come out in paddock opposite to woolshed. Where they found a mouse in the kitchen which had made itself welcome. No one left it any cheese for its supper though. Dot & Pete led 7 ambling walkers around the Little Valley environs.

A total 34 enjoyed the nice weather, nice afternoon tea with the mouse, the bus ride out and a few delighted in the beer at the Fat Badger.


Waikerikeri Foray
Attfield's Woolshed, Waikerikeri Valley - Saturday 8 April 2006
By Al Captian

After discovering a conflict of events at our programmed Little Valley event with the Alex Kindy's Motorbike Xcountry on the same tracks and meeting with the the other event organiser and a few phone calls later Mike had swapped the 22 Apr Waikerikeri Valley and 8 Apr Little Valley events.

Thirty seven runners and walkers turned up in the bus and a couple of private vehicles at the sunny Attfields Woolshed. Club Captain Mike welcomed everyone and a few new faces. He introduced the pack leaders and route for each group.

The 15 A&B Hill Walking packs led by Barbara and Max reboarded the bus to take them to the road end to start their walk up the breezy Lilico Spur. They enjoyed the fabulous views before returning along the same track to catch the bus for a well timed cuppa.

Mike led the 6 A packers (including 2 new runners) up the Waikerikeri microwave transmitter road. At the top we marvelled at the fantastic views and texted the Hill Walkers on the opposite ridge, but we could not see them. We had to get moving again as there was quite a stiff breeze. Following Colin's suggested we followed the fibre optic cable trench track down another ridge despite Mike's fears of matagouri, of which there was nothing to worry about. There was however a ra ther steep short section in which bottoms and hands where used. Then a leisurely jog back to the Attfield's Woolshed. It was a great loop run.

The slower/flatter Walker pack of 8 headed up Waikerikeri microwave transmitter road. Then they turned left at the old diggings toward Dairy Creek and Clyde for a nice easy walk discussing wedding plans, as there were two mothers of the brides present, and then turned left again after 45 mins across the terrace to Waikerikeri Valley Rd and up to the Woolshed for a great cuppa in good company.

The 4 B runners followed Sue up the Waikerikeri microwave transmitter road. They then turned left at the old diggings toward Dairy Creek for a flatter long run to Clyde and along the rail trail walkway through Clyde, then up Springvale Rd. Some of the fitter ones ran up the long Waikerikeri Valley Rd, while others huffed and puffed and shuffled into the Woolshed for a welcome cuppa and a easter egg.

Our C pack had zero members again this week, making a very easy pack report...

Gary's 4 D pack runners followed the Bs to Dairy Creek then down a gully towards the tower, then on to the ammo store and along the terrace above the road to the woolshed. Managed to prevent SueW leading us down to the corner of Waikerikeri Valley Rd. We were back in time to refill the zip for afternoon tea.

Turkey of the day was not awarded this week as last week's recipient didn't turn up to award to a new Turkey.

Conroys Dam Buster
Opening Run - Conroys Dam, Earnscleugh - Saturday 1 April 2006
By Short Shins

Forty two runners and walkers turned up to a brillant sunny and hot autumn day at Conroys Dam. Club Captain Mike welcomed everyone back with a special hello to all the new faces. He introduced the committee and outlined the health and safety aspects of the outings. Given the 25+ degrees we were standing in, it was hard to imagine days when we would be needing our polypro and wind jackets, and our hats and gloves.

Mike led the A pack with 3 new runners and himself and Graham up every steep DOC track they could find, coming across some sheepyards -- and then onto Castle Rock which some of them proceeded to climb. Once they got Mike off the top of the rock, they ran down to the old stone cottage and back along the water race at pace to beat a cheeky "B" pack led by Allen who thought he could dish it up to the Awesome A'.... Naturally the A's superior local knowledge (courtesy of Keri) got them back to Conroys before Allen and his B's.

The 5 B runners (who actually wanted to be known as the A- pack) followed Allen up to Castle Rock as well, enjoying their day and having a good time. There was concern when the president arrived back with blood on his face - something to do with the rock??? The B's proceeded to run back down to Conroys Dam via the old stone cottage too.

With no C pack their story is pretty short this week. Gary took the one C runner with his D pack to give a total of three D's. They ran through the lucerne paddock onto the DOC track and crossed the creek. They went cross country, down and up a steep gully and eventually made it to the stone hut after exploring some new country and navigating their way through the deep gully.... Returning to the dam via Sheepshead Track was easy in comparison! The fifteen hill walkers followed Barbara along the DOC track and up a steep gully to the old stone cottage too. They had a brief diverson on the way to look at the old mining relics and cottage below the track before carrying on their way, losing a few walkers for the first time that day. Luckily these faithful followers managed to keep on track before losing the group again - following a track up the hill instead of down the fenceline into the deep gorge! Luckily for the faithful followers, voices carried well and they were able to locate the rest of their group again before they went too far up the hill! A short break in the shade of the hut and tall poplar tree was welcomed before descending back to Conroys via Sheepshead Road. Barbara had the find of the day when she found an ameythst crystal. Like all the running packs, the hill walkers were out for over two hours.

Max took a group of fourteen flat walkers along the DOC track, through the mining remains and across the creek (where no-one got wet feet this year!). Luckily it wasn't too steep either and they made good time to be first ones back for afternoon tea.

A large afternoon tea by the committee was welcomed by all as they returned to the dam, taking time to enjoy the sun and catch up with everyone. Turkey of the day was awarded to someone who wants to remain nameless for getting "lost" twice in one day. A large congregation of harriers went back to check out the refurbished club rooms in Alexandra.