Port weathers storms

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Last Updated: Monday, 06 November 2017 15:48

Port Macquarie locals have had a taste of summer series orienteering - and declared they want more!

ONSW ventured to the mid north coast at the weekend in the latest outing to spread the word as part of an ASC grant.

The two days had it all - koalas, swamp wallabies, water dragons, thunderstorms, pumping surf and a range of eager beavers keen to establish the sport in the area.

We observed a good mix of young families, athletic 20-30-somethings and other curious folk (some of whom couldn't spare the time but gave us their details for future events) all relish the challenge. There were around 40 people participate each day.

The League of Kilted Gentlemen (pictured) in particular were stoked to clear Sunday's course with 17 seconds to spare after enduring a few soggy hiccups the previous day in their first outings. 

Each day was a Sydney Summer Series-style score course, with the optimum route being about 7.2km for all 30 controls. Our inaugural scholar Atte Lahtinen did the mapping.

We are indebted to locals Peter Langran (ex-BOF, RRA) and Matt and Jenny Bell (ex-Garingal) for their help in advance and on the weekend, council for their assistance and Barbara Sherrin from the Girl Guides for use of their hall on Saturday.

Ron Pallas, Gayle Shepherd and Ian Jessup weathered a massive thunderstorm there but enjoyed better luck on Sunday, being packed up and on the road five minutes before the rain came down once more.

Results and maps are on the grant project web page. This weekend we are back in northern Sydney (Berowra) for more free promotional events on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.