Twenty-two people participated in this, the 90th weeding Ecotour on Lord Howe Island. It was a mix of regular long-term Friends members, and we also welcomed quite a few people who are new to the program.
It was a very convivial first evening with many of our Friends getting together after a two-year break with COVID cancelling all 2020 weeding trips. An introductory lecture at Oceanview lounge with drinks renewed many old friendships. The Friends’ main focus this week for conservation activities to assist the LHI Board with areas of settlement weeds they felt a priority. With a recent rodent incursion on the Island, all the Board weed staff have been seconded to that project.
Of course, the group also were here to enjoy exploring the Island and discovering all of the wonderful flora and fauna, scenery, and seeing the benefits on all of this since the removal of rats and mice in 2019. North Bay all day weeding on North Head and the bbq lunch a high point. There were very good low tides this week and the weather perfect for several fantastic low tide reef walks where we discovered scintillating starfish, colourful nudibranchs and a few playful octopuses.
The group at Kims Lookout
Most scenic weeding site in Australia
North Bay bbq always popular
South Reef low tide reef walk