YOU NEVER KNOW UNTIL YOU TRY

Camping in the heart southern forests at Big Brook Dam near Pemberton was one way to experience the majestic karri trees. And the solo traveller did.    Other ways included climbing one of the highest fire-lookout trees in the world –  the Gloucester Tree which stretches fifty eight metres above the canopy.  Not for this solo traveller!   Just watching climbers nimbly reach the upper  platform was enough to bring shudders of anxiety to one  afflicted by vertigo.

This affliction (admittedly as well as lack of fitness and age) was a valid excuse for also passing by Walpole and its nearby Tree Top Walk suspended 40 metres through the crowns of unique Tingle forests.    It was no excuse to bypass the Ancient Empire Walk in which you wander through hollowed tree trunks.

So from Parry’s Beach further on, and acting on the persuasion of camping neighbours, backtracking to Walpole and the renowned Tree Top Walk saw the solo traveller identifying herself as stupid but nevertheless heading for the walk ticket office.   

Not yet firmly convinced that she would undertake the challenge of the suspension bridge, a guided stroll through the Ancient Empire Walk provided plenty of opportunity to renege on the promise that it was now or never to be rid of invalid fear.

Facing the ticket seller, still half-committed, she handed over the $15.50 and quickly surveyed those in the queue behind her.    “Could I please follow behind you on the bridge?” she implored a British couple.    They were to be kindly supported by their nephew who offered to walk behind the reluctant risk taker.

Hands gripped the rails tightly until the bridge sloped downwards to more acceptable heights and the vertiginous traveller trained her eyes on the couple in front (rather than the canopy or what lay below) whiLST constantly engaging the nephew guardian at the rear in conversation about his life and work in Newman.

Yes, the grip on the rails lightened and the last 20 metres were comfortable but not completely enjoyable.

“Do you want to go around again?” asked the traveller’s guardian angels.    Slight temptation subsided into heartfelt thanks for the protection and encouragement.     Would she ever try a stunt like that again?    Maybe.