Cocktails at the Castle is an annual ANUMC tradition, involving the strange mix of formal wear and hiking. The 2016 edition will run on the first weekend of February (2017), a week before the start of uni.
We will leave early Saturday morning. Arriving at Long Gully carpark, we will start our short but steep (1560m ascent over 5km) hike up to the Castle. The walk is exposed, with some scrambling and rock climbing (though no climbing experience is necessary). Once we summit, there will be spectacular views of Pigeon House, Byangee Walls and Mt Talaterang. After a quick change from hiking clothes into formal attire, the festivities will begin. Have a look at Jess’ write ups for descriptions of the previous events and information about the hike: https://wordsandwilds.wordpress.com/2014/12/04/cocktails-on-the-castle-the-red-promenade/ https://wordsandwilds.wordpress.com/2014/01/23/cocktails-on-the-castle-the-heatwave-edition/
This is a great social event for all club members. While you don’t need to have any experience, please let me know your hiking experience when signing up, and vehicle details (or lack thereof). You will need to be reasonably fit. Let me know if you have any doubts and we can have a chat.
Essential gear list:
Formal/cocktail dress
Cocktails Food (groups will be allocated entrees, mains or desserts closer to the date - get creative with what you can cook on a Trangia!)
Camping/hiking gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, clothing, hat, pack, stove + fuel + matches, plates + cutlery, toiletries, torch, sunscreen, water - you will need to carry all your water with you and it will probably be warm, etc.)
Good pair of walking shoes/boots
There will be no pre-trip. Car/tent groups will be arranged by email in the week before the trip. I'll be at the committee meeting on Tuesday 31st - or email me if you have any questions.
See trip description. Long Gully carpark -> Kalianna Ridge -> Meakins Pass -> The Castle, following the castle walking trail. Map: Corang 1:25k.