Day 9

A much better porridge using different oats by Marianne started our day before returning to the Devil’s Boots track. We had decided to do the longer walk up to Duggards Dam, and on the way discovered that past the cave I went in yesterday (Stafford’s Cave) was Ballroom Cave. This cave was much more access friendly, and Marianne was able to go inside. It has a nice flat bottom in a big cavern. Miners used to have dances in it. While jumping a puddle I hit a rock with my head, leaving a good sized lump. Now I understand why they always have helmets. We continued our walk to the dam where we finally got to, a Dam. With not much around we headed back.

I had a second attempt at Stafford’s Cave, armed with an extra torch and my bright orange hat, explored as far as was possible without using caving gear or dying. My revisit revealed just how immense this cave really was, and my nerves hung around the whole time until I saw daylight and Marianne staring down waiting for me. Back at the car I gave some tips to some fellow travelers before setting off to Collingwood and our booked accommodation. Showers, a bed and technology! Also laundry. These four things occupied our afternoon and evening along with a walk at the beach.

Entree written by Jack