There was something wonderful in walking at dusk along the track from Tapin Tops camping ground.

The Gloucester Environment Group (GEG) members spent a few nights camping in the forest.

The sun was sinking and I was quietly following four bird experts.

A bird would call from the bush, in unison four binoculars were lifted and swung around to focus on the area. Often intense bird discussion followed.

When we arrived ready to set up our tent, we were greeted with 'listen can your hear the rifle bird' not once but five times!

And yes later, to their excitement, they actually did glimpse the rarely seen rifle bird.

They heard or saw 42 different birds on our trip.

We walked forest tracks, including round the short steep circuit from the camp where the conversation turned to diagnosing various trees, as we walked among large cedar trees and ferns.

We visited Potoroo Falls, only the brave swam in the cold waters, it was fantastic once you were in.

We came home via Ellenborough falls, at first only two people volunteered to descend the 640 steps down to the base, then suddenly nearly everyone disappeared down the track, the excellent flights of steps, hand rail and rest spots encouraged us all.

The falls are the second highest in the southern hemisphere and well worth a visit, with excellent information boards and viewing platform for the unadventurous.

There was also an amazing little cafe in the middle of nowhere at the top of the falls with home made pies and wraps so we sat around and relaxed, recuperating from our climb back up the 640 steps.

One of my special memories was of sitting around the camp fire under the stars, being offered special wines, eating good food and listening to the boo book owl.

To complete our weekend on the way home, some of us detoured to have a small farewell feast at the very interesting Bent on Food cafe in Wingham.

It is well worth being a member of GEG, there are monthly walks, varying from easy to more strenuous and seasonal celebrations (parties) four times a year.

We also care for Gloucester river bank, weeding and planting under Penny Drake Brockman's programme.

The next GEG walk is on Saturday, January 21 to Burraga swamp and the upper Allen River, the swamp is at nearly 1000 metre altitude and the short two kilometre walk is through Antarctic beech and soft tree ferns. If it’s hot we will swim in the Allen river in the afternoon.

If you are interested in going, contact Steve Robinson 6558 7428.