Blue Gum Circuit (Paluma)

SUNDAY 7 February 2021

Blue Gum Circuit: A great track walk on the Blue Gum Creek circuit. The club developed this track back in 2013. You'll see waterfall and creek scenery, rainforest and woodland, old tin mining areas and enjoy a lovely swim or two. There is a steep 400 mr elevation climb back to Paluma village though.

REGISTRATION WITH THE WALK LEADER IS ESSENTIAL. PLEASE READ THE INFORMATION BELOW.

RATED: hard (due to the elevation gain).

DESCRIPTION
This track walk starts in Paluma village before descending on the south side of Paluma into the Blue Gum / upper Star Valley area. There will be several steep descents. At the bottom, we'll walk and rockhop alongside creeks. There will be a couple of creeks that require crossing (one with boots off) and others that require rock hopping skills. Our efforts will be rewarded with a swim at the lagoon at lunch time - one of the great lagoons we visit.

After lunch – the climb back to Paluma is a 3 hour 400m elevation climb up a steep bush track. We'll stop at Triple Falls on the way for another swim or to just enjoy the scenery.

FITNESS
If you can comfortably do Castle Hill four times up the goat track non-stop (with a day pack), then you should be fit enough for this climb.

WHAT TO BRING
- Water: min. 2L and refill from creek or 4L for the full day. **see below info.
- Clothing: full long sleeve and long pants (or long gaiters) are recommended as there is some off track walking that may include scratchy/sharp vegetation. Many members also wear fingerless gloves.
- Enclosed footwear
- Food for the day
- Hat, sunscreen and insect repellent
- Usual bushwalking gear
- Personal first aid kit including a compression bandage and blister kit is recommended.
- Hiking poles (optional) can be useful on track and for creek crossings but can be cumbersome during off track walking (recommend that poles can be folded or collapsible to be stowed during these sections).

** Water: if you are uncomfortable using creek water for drinking water refill (after treating suitably), then carry 4L min for the day, or more to suit your requirements. Note that the club recommends that any natural water sources must be suitably treated before consumption.

COST
Non members = $5 walk fee for insurance
Must be over 18years to participate

WALK LEADER, INFO and REGISTRATION
Walk leader is Wilfred.
To discuss suitability, to register or for more information please contact [email protected] and we will get back to you asap.

WALK DETAILS
Meet time: 0800 in Paluma (location available on registration)
Return time: 1700 in Paluma

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Please note:
To protect the privacy of club officials, walk leaders, property owners or sensitive areas, contact details and some locations won't be published on Facebook or website or be given out via private message. Please contact the club via email and we will respond ASAP.

On some activities, walker numbers may be limited to promote the safety and enjoyment of all, due to location size and ability to socially distance or to reduce our environmental impact at some locations.

COVID-19
Please do not attend if you are unwell, have symptoms or meet any conditions imposed as per Qld Government. Social distancing and self managed hygiene practices are strongly encouraged, and the club will not be organising car pooling opportunities at present. The club is cognisant of the Outdoors Queensland COVID SAFE PLAN for Outdoor Recreation Providers. On some walks, as noted above, numbers may be limited.

We hope to see you on a walk soon.