In May 2006 Ron Doughton led a group of 12 keen NPA walkers on a most interesting trek to rediscover renowned Sarah Claydon's hideaway property in the Morton National Park. Sarah Claydon, who lived during the 1800's, was loved by many in the Milton Ulladulla area, for her untiring work as a midwife. She married an ex-convict, and together they adopted a little Aboriginal girl, Rachel.

The walk followed the track to Mt Bushwalker, and then turned north off the main track, descending the Gaol House Pass, which was originally built for Sarah. The track originally led to Lot 1, the first lot in Milton, owned by Sarah and used by her as a hideaway property. At one stage horse and cattle yards were found at the base of the cliff. The track had overgrown badly until 1988 when horse riders, who fished in the creek, allegedly set fire to the valley and trail environment to 'clean it up'. This fire reportedly cost more than a million dollars to put out.

"Leaving the rainforest area," Ron reported, "we moved out to an extensive ledge of drier vegetation dominated by massive Turpentine trees. We then began a steep descent made slippery by tree leaves fallen in the recent drought. A rest stop in a creek bed was most welcome."

"We descended through the second set of cliffs, again on a made track. Fallen trees made the track difficult and probably impossible for horses, which are no longer permitted in the area. The terrain became steeper, and our boots were hard pressed to support us in the loose rocky conditions. Eventually we reached the cool recesses of the fabled Claydons Creek, set in an avenue of white trunked Watergums and settled for lunch. The total descent had been 450 metres. "

"Slowly we retraced our steps back to the cars later in the afternoon. There, while enjoying a well earned afternoon tea, we were joined by a group of Sydney Bushwalkers who gratefully accepted Lorraine's and Sheila's offer of cake and coffee. They had to return to Sydney, whereas we lucky locals were in our showers and hour later."

On the previous Sunday, a gloriously sunny day, Leigh Martin led a group of walkers on an easy 10km return walk to Steamers Beach, in the Buderoo National Park at Jervis Bay. The walk passed through interesting forest and heathland, with great views from Brooks Lookout, and spectacular views down to Ulladulla and beyond.

Information on the upcoming walks program can be obtained from Dave Wardleworth on (02) 4456-5253 or download program

Milton branch of National Parks Association of NSW (Inc)

 

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