Date: 4/12/2007
Maps: LPI Ben Bullen 89314S
Route: Donkey Mountain. Climb north-eastern spur of Donkey Mountain, traverse to the south-west end, exploring canyons, slots and pagodas along the way. Distance: 7 kilometres. Ascent: about 440 m.
Gear: Daypack, Gaiters, Camera, EPIRB, Maps, Compass, GPS (set to WGS84), 3 litres water
Party: Geoff Fox (Leader), Peter Medbury and Kent Dwyer
Notes:
I had wanted to see Donkey Mountain for a long time. So many people had told me about the maze of slots, canyons and the orchids that it was an absolutely 'must see place'.
When Geoff put this walk on at a time I could go I had to take the opportunity.
We parked near the entrance to the new Emirates Resort being built in the Wolgan Valley and walked up the ridge towards Donkey Mountain.
Access to Donkey Mountain will be limited once the Emirates Resort is completed. A vermin-proof fence around the property will enclose Donkey Mountain as well. Once the fence is up access will be restricted to the main entrance we used today or through vermin-proof gates at two other locations. Keeping feral animals off Donkey Mountain has to help.
Understandably, a lot of bushwalkers are very concerned about the Emirates Resort development and the effect it will have on the delicate environment in the area. At this stage I'm undecided. Most of the area being developed is cleared and has been used for grazing for a long time. To my way of thinking the area has already been devastated. If the conditions placed on the development approval are adhered to then I expect the environment will actually be a lot better than it is now. One of the conditions identified a number of plant communities that used to exist and requires them to be restored. I have stayed at eco-resorts in other sensitive areas and I've seen how sensitively they can be built and run. I'll never be able to afford to stay at this one though.
We skirted the small hill and headed up the eastern ridge. It was a very steep approach which went up the hill beside a fence. The star picket postss provided handy support at times. The slope was much gentler after the end of the fence had been reached.
more coming soon...
| Time | Location | Grid Reference |
| 09:00 | Leave Car | GR |
| 11:00 | North Eastern End | GR |
| 14:50 | South Western End | GR |
| 15.50 | Arrive at Car | GR |