26 Feb 10 - Wayatinah and Lake St Clair

By Craig: As we left Macquarie Heads we knew our place of choice was booked out. Pity, as we wanted to see a couple of attractions and complete a walk at Lake St Clair. While cutting up through the mountains after a brief stop at Queenstown I had three things in mind: a fire, a Bourbon and fishing. As time drew on we visited a place called Bronte Park, most likely a top spot but as we passed by the park we saw first looked like a workers' camp so we gave it a miss. We most likely should have checked it out better but being in a hurry and first impressions not being what we wanted, we moved on. We visited a little free camp area called Bronte’s Lagoon and selected a spot and backed the trailer into position thinking at least for an overnight stay. However prior to setting up we walked a little ways down to the waters edge and said Hi to the neighbours. All good we thought just as the dogs chained to another van started barking. As we pulled out of the lagoon we checked the map thinking another 30k’s or so wouldn’t hurt.
Lou scanned the Camps 5 book and spotted Wayatinah camping area. My request to Louise was simple: it must have a lake, we must be able to run a generator and we must be able to have a fire. Well one phone call, three ticks and we were pulling into Wayatinah, a little late but within heaps of time to set up prior to dark, get a fire started and sit down to a Bourbon. Ah! Camping. Why would you have it any other way? & we got some fishing in to boot!












We took a trip back to Derwent Bridge to see ‘The Wall’ a sculpture hand carved of timber depicting the rigour of old times in the Hydro power and timber industries. No photos are allowed to be taken as this is a private gallery however keeping all opinions aside The Wall is worth taking time out to see. As I walked in to my left I sighted a hat and cowhide coat hanging on the wall. I took my coat off and looked for a hook realising that the hat & coat was a handcrafted timber sculpture made from Huon Pine, Wow! I thought this is going to be great. A walk along the Wall leaves you speechless and at times expecting one of the figures to smile and reach out to shake your hand. The level of detail is extraordinary you simply have to sit for a while to admire the artist’s work.

On our track about we visited Lake St Clair and did a short walk and some sight seeing.

By Lou: Expect it when you least expect it. Wayatinah Lakeside Caravan Park was our 4th preference (sight unseen) but turned out to be a pearler. Very low key but friendly and helpful owners, camp spot right on the lake, firepot plonked in front of us and a free load of firewood provided. We met Olivier from Quebec who was cycling on his own around Tassie and had a great chat. At least I think he was interesting, I can really only remember the French accent.