We were fortunate to have a fine and sunny day for our annual koala count. Nineteen people participated. We met at Aireys Inlet Hall and then travelled to Kennett River for morning tea. Following the tea break we drove to Grey River at the start of the National Park to begin our survey.
It was quite some time before we spotted the first koala. Fortunately we had some very observant members of the group who were able to locate koalas amongst dense clumps of leaves and branches.
A pair of Wedge-tailed Eagles appeared just above us making sweeping flights over the forest and hillsides. Also a Brown Goshawk made a brief appearance but departed quickly causing loud alarm calls from a variety of smaller birds.
Lunch break at the top of the ridge. It was very pleasant sitting in the sun overlooking Grey River and the coast.
On the walk back along the powerline track, we added only two more koalas to our list.
Our total for the day was thirteen.
Despite the low number of koalas counted, everyone enjoyed the walk in very beautiful surroundings.
Kaye Traynor