More than 20 members attended despite the very warm temperatures.

The plan was to cross the new foot bridge and walk in the shade eastwards along the channel bank looking for koalas and birds.

Koalas were waiting for us as no sooner had we crossed the bridge, we spotted a young one clutching the trunk of a very smooth gum. 

Just a few metres further along the bank another mature koala was seen high up in the canopy looking well settled and very comfortable.

Likewise for a third one seen on the way back after walking through the red gum forest in the Flora and Fauna Reserve (the Narrandera Common).

Birds were scarce even at that time of day, but the group did see Yellow Rosellas, Black-faced Cuckoo-Shrikes, Superb Wrens and Rainbow Bee-eaters.

In the channel there were the usual water birds.

A Swamp Harrier was also seen flying on the northern side of the channel, but no other birds of prey were observed.

Nella Smith had found and interesting patch of Wilcannia Lillies (often called Garland Lillies) a few weeks prior to the outing.

They consisted of many colours in the one area varying from dark maroon through to pinks, to white and yellows.

The group did locate a crop of yellow flowering ones on the walk.

However, Nella's collection, unfortunately, had long since faded and the variety of colours were no longer obvious.

The gathering finished back at the bridge car park where everyone enjoyed nibbles and drinks before departing around 7.30pm.

Once the hot weather settles back to more bearable temperatures, the club will be going back to the usual early morning trips to various locations in the area.

Non-members are always welcome to join us on any of our outings.

Contact club secretary Penny Williams at murrumbidgeefieldnaturalists@gmail.com to find out where the outings are planned for each month if you are interested in joining us.