From the sandy shore to the forest floor

Autumn finally caught up with us. Out came the warmer PJs and runners replaced thongs - raincoats replaced sun hats. Overhead huge banks of cumuli nimbus moved across the sky, dropping upon us as we ventured further into the south west of WA and into a low pressure system.

But what the heck, a bit of wind and rain has never stopped me beach combing and exploring natures moods before - I'm not about to let it now.

After leaving Experance we hop-skipped along, free camping, for a few days, stopping in at different spots until we came into Albany. As we came into the Albany region the landscape changed from dry scrubby bushland to rich lush green pasture spotted heavily with fat and happy cows. In Albany we caught up with Rachael and Glendon once again and spent a couple of days exploring the local environs together before we set off toward the southern forests of WA.

The only landscape that can equal the joy of the coast for me is that of the forest. I had read about the tall timbers of the south west, including some amazing old growth forests, and I have not been disappointed.

After three days of solid rain we left the coast in search of the giant Tingle trees that mark the beginning of some magnificent forest touring, travelling west from the beautiful town of Denmark along the South Coast Highway. We enjoyed the tree top walk (Valley of the Giants) and the forest floor walk. We loved to be immersed in the presence of these ancient giants.

Valley of the Giants tree top walk

Giant Tingle tree

Life on the forest floor

We free camped in Karri forest rest areas for three nights until we came into a lovely town called Pemberton. We are set up here for a few days, doing day trips into forest walks and waterfalls and generally soaking up the lush Karri forest surrounds.

Forest floor walk (Valley of the Giants)

Finally the clouds have cleared and with them the rain.

Big Brook Dam

Karri tree





When we leave here we head to Perth to have the van serviced and a few issues seen to. From there I head home to Melbourne for a week (found some cheap flights) to catch up with Mum for a belated birthday and Mother's Day. Mike will hang about Perth while Winnebago sort out the van.