| Leader | Mentor | Understudy | Tail Ender | |
| Standards | Lynne R | Dave R | Jon B | Ailsa |
| Alternates | Les G | Norma | Gary G | Eric S |
Distance 12km; duration 4hrs 45 min (approx); elevation gain 630m
The 44 trampers booked for Awa Awa (including visitor Mijung) equalled the number in 2023, but it was hoped that that was where similarities between the two tramps would begin and end. President Judy welcomed all, and the ever-reliable Victor had us at the Reserve, and ready to walk by 10.15am. This despite him parking the flash newer bus on the roadside, out of harm’s way from the overhanging trees. We were grateful for the extra 50 metre warm-up as it was almost straight into the steady climb with little time for the lungs and legs to adjust.
A layer of misty cloud overhead did not dampen spirits and there were the usual interesting snatches of conversation and laughter to be heard as we made our way upwards. Despite perspiration making inroads on the SPF, a further application was not necessary as only glimpses of the sun were seen during the day. Before too long, brief halts were called as layers had to be discarded despite the cool conditions.
The 31 Standards were ably led by Lynne R who maintained a steady pace. When we eventually reached the saddle, the clouds swirling up and over us confirmed it was not going to be the day to capture great shots of Mt Hutt, or the Canterbury Plains. On reaching the top, which coincided with the lunch call, we found that we did not have the place to ourselves. Not one, but two other groups were already dug in, and looking unlikely to relinquish the favoured dining spots. On hearing that one of the groups was the Over 40’s Club, one of our number happily announced that we were the Bishopdale Under 40’s! “Oh, if only” we all thought!
As usual, the descent was much more hazardous with the dampness underfoot providing plenty of opportunities to slip. When one of our number eventually came off second best in this “tramper versus terrain” tussle, there was a collective held breath until the thumbs up was given. In the meantime, the Alternates were a smaller group under Les’ leadership. Les had his first walk with the Club on this tramp in 2022. Both groups had a very enjoyable day in the Canterbury high country.
Research tells me that the McLennan family settled in the area around the 1880s when Alexander McLennan secured a position managing the 36,000 acre Blackford Station. A whole other story is that he managed this feat, without feet, having lost them to frostbite! He built a home in the bush and hence the name, McLennan’s Bush. The rhododendrons were first planted in 1968 with The Awa Awa Rata Society being formed in 1970 to maintain a rhododendron park. Shrubs continue to be planted and it was a pleasure to see the bushes, some still in full bloom. It is generally acknowledged that rhododendrons originated in the Himalayas, so no wonder they looked at ease in today’s temperatures. For those who think such botanical beauty should grace the gardens of a stately home, well … you’re just going to have to make do with the very impressive new toilet block.
Author’s note to self … in future on arrival at Bishopdale reconnoitre the carpark fully and do not pull into a space next to the President. It makes it too easy to be bushwhacked – i.e. asked to do the trip report!
Text by Steve Bw
