End of July update

As another month sadly but inevitably draws to a close, a quick summary of July's progress is appropriate.  Suffice to say, a very good time was had working around Whistlestop, and with no mowing required all my time could be spent moving slowly ahead.

The major achievement was some significant clearing at the rocky outcrop area adjacent to our main vehicle track.  This project started out as simply removing some tea-tree in order to widen our track ready for grading and surfacing, but- as these things tend to do- the scope of the clearing has greatly expanded!  This area was always expected to be an attractive asset, but as I progress with tidying it up it just keeps getting better and better.  The scrappy tea-tree which had taken over the area was virtually impenetrable previously, so I was only able to get a very sketchy idea of its true potential.  The more I clear, the more I realise what a nice area this is, and the more the scope of the work evolves.

This photo pretty much shows the progress so far.  Bear in mind all this area was utterly impenetrable before, with enormous quantities of dead branches etc and tangled tea-tree.  Our main track from the gate to the cottage is just to the right of here, and yes, I am widening it, which was where this project started.  The rocky outcrop spills down to the left in a series of 'terraces', although more work is required to open this up.  The 'tree' in the middle is a large 'Black Wattle', which will soon be in flower.  Behind me, amidst thick tea-tree is 'Sunset Rock'- a large rock outcrop from where a great view of the sunset can be had at any time of year.  Already it is much more accessible, but this will be further developed.  The other day, after some light rain, the outcrop could be seen glistening through the bush, something which was impossible previously.

I enjoy this work immensely, and am really satisfied with the end result.  Although this kind of work would seem to have little to do with the progress of Whistlestop as a train haven, the objective all along, particularly with the Miniature Railway, has been to provide a really attractive setting for the trains, and this area is part of that objective.  As stated previously the route of the miniature railway is just to the left of this area, below the rocky outcrop.  Also, as I learn more about the landscape as it is opened up, the route of the railway and the siting of other attractions gradually evolves and progresses.

Another significant achievement this month was the repainting of the Garden Railway fence, which was long overdue.  This still requires a second topcoat, but despite frosty, unpaintable, mornings the fence was prepared, primered and one topcoat applied, and it looks nice and fresh once again.  Although the hoped-for Garden Railway is a very long way off, improving the look of this area greatly adds to the overall 'railway' atmosphere here.

Winter is a fantastic time of year in this area- despite the very cold nights and mornings- and this year has been particularly good.  Absolutely superb clear days, fantastic for working outside!