8 – 11 May
Alpine village – St Arnaud, Tasman District
Trip leader: Jane Coulter Report Author: Dianne Owen
We had perfect weather, complete with a well-timed downpour – right on cue, just as the forecast promised.
Mother Nature’s annual debut in the forest was a work in progress, slowly unfolding with the season’s touch. This year, the chosen destination was St. Arnaud, where 18 enthusiastic photographers arrived, each lugging, carrying and carefully packing their gear – eager to capture that perfect “shot of the day.”
It was definitely a scramble into the great unknown, where wonder and amazement popped up like unexpected mushrooms. Hats off to those who survived the forest gymnastics – the bending, twisting, kneeling and occasional flopping. At times, it looked less like photography and more like a contortionist audition in hiking boots!
Fungi are nature’s clean-up crew and secret partners. They break down dead plants, animals, and organic waste, returning valuable nutrients to the soil. But that’s not all – they also team up with plant roots, helping them soak up more water and nutrients. It’s a win-win underground partnership!
Fungi display a stunning range of colours – from earthy browns and soft whites to bright oranges, reds, purples and even greens. Their vibrant palette adds unexpected bursts of beauty to the forest floor, making each one a tiny natural work of art.
Cheers to Hamish for his top-notch contribution to the group by way of his water-taxi to Whiskey Falls. Whether it was wisdom, wit or just well-timed laughs, he definitely kept things interesting
A special thank you to the club for organising such a great trip and to all the members for the wonderful camaraderie – it truly made the experience special.
