Westward bound for our November Rally at Waratah, a few Chapter Members decided to stop over at Hellyer Gorge camp ground on the Thursday Evening. Others opting to stay overnight at their favourite venues on the way to Waratah.
As usual it was good to catch up with one another again. We walked through the many shady glens admiring the rain forest and all Hellyer Gorge has to offer. As the coolness of the evening came down, we were to stoke up a beautiful fire that was enjoyed until retiring to bed later in the night. During the early hours of the morning we were to hear the brushtail possums scampering on and around our Motorhome's.
Walkway along the River at Hellyer Gorge River through Hellyer Gorge

On arrival at Waratah members were welcomed with a hot cuppa, we had the use of a beautiful community hall for our Rally which was really cosy and warm. Many were to catch up with friends that had arrived home from their interstate wanderings and it was good to hear of their adventures on the road.
The township of Waratah has an unique history, almost impossible to capture given the amount of space required to do so. It was a great pioneering feat by those including "Philosopher Smith" who in 1871 struggled through nearly impenetrable rain forest to take samples of ore of many descriptions. This was to lead to the formation of the Mt Bishoff tin mine and subsequent establishment of the township of Waratah. There are many publications available today in the town, which sets out the history of the area which is quite unique. With the native Waratah as its emblem the township promotes a self driving tour of the area and many walks into other close by mining areas and the old Power House etc. They invite all to share in the history and legacy of those hardy pioneers of a bygone era. A very close knit community that is willing to share the history of the town and their future aspirations with such friendliness.
President Ian outlining events at Happy Hour Members enjoying meal at the Golf Club
Our happy hour was great in the warm room and the many discussions taking place, along with laughter was an indication the way the weekend would proceed. On the Friday evening we ventured to the Golf Club for an excellent meal. The price of the meal and beverages certainly surprised everyone. All meals were $10 and the drink prices were lower than the city hotels. Returning to the Rally site most had a port or two and others tea and coffee supplied by the Hall Committee
Power Station advice sign Rain Forest at the start of Power Station track
Saturday morning saw a few up and about early, a couple of Members on their morning walk finding the sign pointing the way to the old Power Station; reputably one if not the oldest stations in Australia. (A plaque states that Waratah was the first Industrial Town in Australia to generate Electricity for mining and general use) On their return they were to regale everyone with the beauty of the walk, though stating it was a little demanding due to the steep descent and the climb out on the other side. A little harrowing though in all they felt the walk was worth the outcome. (click here for more photo's of Track and Power House)
Inspecting Lichen on way to Power House Remains of Generating Equipment in Power House
What a pleasant surprise it was to have the Community Hall Committee Ladies supply us with a excellent spread for our morning tea, it was so well received that we made personal donations to their fundraising efforts despite their protestations. This excellent morning tea ensured that we had to all go for a walk around the town to wear off the cakes and the many fine eats supplied.
Community Hall Committee Morning Tea (note native Waratah) Members & Visitors assembling for guided tour of the Waratah Township
We were lucky to obtain the services of a guide who took us on a walk through Waratah and up to the old Mt Bischoff tin mine, there is no doubt that this walk and commentary has been the best we have been involved in so far this year. Information imparted by our guide was to keep us all enthralled and made the walk in blustery weather well worth while.
Inspecting Waratah Post Office Falls, looking back towards Rally Site
After an inspection of the old disused Mt Bischoff mine site, quite a few went on the walk down to the power station and though a little dilapidated they all returned much more informed, appreciating the strength of the early pioneers in building this and other structures to ensure the successful mining of tin and other minerals in the area.
Many were a little worn out on their return, so we all settled in for a relaxing afternoon. The ladies were to do their craft work with other playing the many games supplied by the Ladies Community Hall Committee.
Ron & Rita were to drive down from Penguin to spend the day catching up with old friends and meeting new Chapter Members, Ron may be suffering some mobility problems, though in all he is quite healthy.
Rita & Margaret working away on craft Marlene & Madge Crocheting and Cross Stitching
Kaye making Birthday and other cards Liz, Anne and Wendy playing Scrabble

Many members think that their anniversary's and birthdays will go unnoticed, this is not the case, at our Saturday Happy Hour again members were caught out. Many were surprised to hear their future birthday and anniversary dates announced, much shiacking took place. Bob was not even aware that his wife Evelyn had baked a special birthday cake for him, which was in his motorhome all the while whilst travelling to the Rally.This was to bring forth much laughter and singing of the birthday song and of course we were to sample the excellent Birthday Cake.
Bob showing total surprise of Birthday Cake Bob with the Birthday Cake made by wife Evelyn
After a much laughter filled happy hour we were to go to the Waratah Hotel for our Saturday evening meal, we were welcomed with much friendliness that the community continued to extend to us. Again the meals were great and well priced and given they had a quite a few locals and visitors the service was great and the meals large. There were certainly no complaints, with the walk back to our site being at a leisurely pace trying to walk off the meal.
Awaiting the Meal Meals arriving (note largeness of meal)
Back at our rally site we had hot cups of tea or coffee and continued with entertainment prior to us all heading off to bed, most were a little fatigued due to the full on day of tours, walking and eating.
Sunday morning arrived very sunny and a few went off to tackle the climb up into the old workings of the old Mt Bischoff mine, they reported that the views of the surrounding areas were excellent. (click here for more photo's of Mt Bischoff Tin Mine)
Old Workings Mt Bischoff Looking back to Waratah Falls and Township from top of Mt Bischoff
As usual, Chapter Members were late in leaving the Rally Site for all agreed that it had been a top Rally and thanks was extended to our hosts Ian and Kaye for their hospitality and for arranging such a successful venue for us all.
To the people of Waratah we thank you for your hospitality and friendship. We all hope that the testing of the old mine proves positive and a re-opened mine, albiet open cut, revitalises Waratah and the community spirit once again.
As usual we all agreed to gather at our next rally at Bothwell to celebrate Christmas with our usual dinner. By 4pm most had departed for the long haul home with a few electing to remain on the West Coast exploring towns and villages before heading for home.

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