Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve

13 July 2009

Nola Muller

Toti Ramblers

401 Gordon House

Gordon Road

Amanzimtoti

4126

Walking update…

GIBA GORGE…

will be memorable for a number of reasons.  Firstly, I managed to get lost on the way to the Gorge which in turn made everyone set off later than anticipated.  I apologize.

Secondly, we experienced our first casualty – with Moira taking a tumble on one of the steep, slippery gravel paths (of which there were many).  Thanks to Stan who patched her up and got her back on her feet.  Miraculously we were close to the road and were able to organize a lift for her back to the paramedics at the Club House.  From there she was given a lift to Kingsway Hospital where 7 or 8 stitches were placed in the cut on the side of her face.  I have been in touch with her and she assures me that she has not been put off Rambling and will be back with the pack on the 26^th.  After this mishap I remember hearing one of the Ramblers saying, “Rambling is not for sissies” and I guess he was right! 

There were no new members to welcome and no Membership fees were taken.

NEXT OUTING ON THE 26th JULY 2009 – VERNON CROOKES NATURE RESERVE

The Vernon Crookes is a delightful and convenient reserve for travelers holidaying on the South Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve lies just half an hour beyond Umzinto. The 2,189 hectare Reserve is a combination of open grassland and coastal forest, home to a range of wild animals plus more than 300 confirmed bird species.

Eland, zebra, blue wildebeest and bushbuck have been introduced into the reserve and roam freely.     There are two dams which attract a great variety of birdlife. The Vernon Crookes reserve is mainly open grassland of rolling hills with some wooded valleys. The wild flowers are a delight in the spring. 

Directions:

The turnoff to Vernon Crookes is well signposted from the N2 Highflats/Ixopo at the Park Rynie/Umzinto flyover. Follow the R612 inland, bypassing Umzinto, for about 12,5km. The turnoff to the reserve is on the right of the road and it is adequately signposted. Follow the gravel road, taking note of the signboards along this route, the main entrance is about 6km off the tar road.

There is an entrance fee at the gate – but at this stage am not sure of the amount. (R10 or R15)

We will be walking – rain or shine – so look forward to seeing you all there.

As usual we will be meeting at Lords and Legends to organize the lift club between 08:00 and 08:30 – or will meet you at Vernon Crookes Gate at 09:00