This is always a very popular walk with our members - possibly because it makes us very grateful for the opportunity to walk so close to everything, but yet to be, in another way, so far removed from the busy hubbub of Sydney.
Most of the group met at Artarmon, and even from that point, we were able to walk through the bush before crossing the oval.Then some street walking took us to St Leonards, where we met up with others . We walked through the park and crossed River Road. At this point we entered the bush - Smoothys Park , followed by Gore Cove Park, which naturally, follows the Cove of the same name.
Our morning tea stop was taken at Berry Island Reserve. The next part of the walk passed HMAS Waterhen ( an establishment, not a ship.) At this point we were adjacent to Balls Head Bay. We had our lunch at the most southern point of the reserve - this has Berrys Bay on its eastern boundary and also has the most amazing views across the harbour - we could clearly see Balmain, Pyrmont, the Harbour Bridge, and then the Opera House in the distance. After lunch we followed the shoreline - right around McMahons Point and then onto Lavender Bay.
We were intent on visiting Wendy Whitely’s Secret Garden ( as it is known) - having walked almost right next to it (on a number of previous occasions ) but hadn't known its exact location.
Di’s lovely photo gives you a glimpse of the garden. The story behind it is - after Brett (Whiteley) died in 1992, Wendy started to clean up a large patch of derelict land, overlooked by her home and owned by the NSW Rail Authority. Before she commenced, it was choked with weeds, including lantana, and had loads of junk in it.
She has worked in it constantly since that time. There are benches placed randomly in quiet spots, and spectacular views to the Sydney Harbour Bridge can be enjoyed.
Although the name may give a different impression, the “secret” garden is open to all.
We had a little more street walking before arriving at Milson’s Point. This ended a lovely walk on a sunny winter’s day in Sydney.
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