WARNING = only try this in SUMMER
Unless you have crampons to stick yourself to the clay!!
We were met at the gate by Site manager Simon Collins and he talked about how we should check our cars, packs for any incoming migrants eg cats rats mice etc.
We then followed him down to a class room type building that had been transported to site and was in the throws of being redesigned/redecorated by a band of willing helpers.
Here we were shown a cut down version of the FENCE and how it was constructed to keep out as many predators as possible with several specimens being shown to us in a taxidermy presentation. Also the ink pads that track the presence of pest animals and insects movements as well – now that was fascinating!!
It was then time to walk outside and get pointed in the right direction – which happened to be skyward – UP UP UP – but the views just got better – at the highest point they had kindly put a seat where we stopped and enjoyed the 360° view and also talked to 3 fence inspectors out on their rounds.
Later we stopped for a bite to eat on another viewing point.
We inspected water filled Tubs – not sure what they were for other than to drown bumble bees!! and various tree planting – and how they get those huge posts in the ground on such an angle – glad I was busy on those days!!
At about the half way mark we had seen the best views and it was so darn hot that we decided to drop down onto a track that made its way in the shade back to our car.
What an interesting day – Thanks – Nola Newton Hilary
