New Year - 2003

The approach to New Year’s Eve was rainy and windy. Unfortunately this meant that there was no sunrise to be viewed on New Year’s morning from the mountains for those who braved the sub zero temperatures hoping for a glimpse of the start of 2003.

The damp conditions were probably the main cause for a quieter-than-last-year evening leading up to the end of 2002. The band planned for the square was moved in doors to the Kosciusko room whilst many moved to the Lounge bar to welcome in the New Year. At least one private party went on through the night and into the following day.

The sun reappeared on Thursday and so did the crowds of summer visitors for the walking, bike riding and fishing.

Walks through the forests keep you out of wind and rain

Flowers are still in bloom throughout the area

Delicate buds in a harsh environment

Mountain bike on Crackenback

High alpine stream

Mt Kosciuszko shrouded in cloud

With all the rain, the Snowy Mountains are a beautiful shade of green whilst not far from the mountains the dry conditions still afflicting much of NSW were evident. A lightening strike started a bush fire close to the Barry Way a few days before New Year and the smoke to the SE of Thredbo could still be seen from the top of Crackenback.

It may be a while before my next report - probably Easter, so till then I would like to wish you all a Happy and Peaceful New Year,