Candlebark Park is a real gem – nestled into the eastern side of Fitzsimons Lane and joined to Westerfolds Park by the Main Yarra Trail, it also connects to Lower Eltham Park, providing plenty of varied terrain. The southern slopes have mainly open forest, interspersed with a network of narrow tracks, some of them crazily complicated as mountain bikers continually reshape them. Out on the river flats in the centre of the map, there are some interesting erosion features. Longer courses usually venture over the footbridge and across the Yarra, where they’ll find an equestrian cross country course, a miniature railway, and sports fields, with more forested slopes to the west. It’s an ideal location for MelbushO, as the course planner can cater for all levels.
Helen Walpole did just that, with a Long Hard course (right) providing plenty of navigational challenge as it criss crossed the entire park. The long legs were particularly fun! Courses 2 and 3 provided shorter versions but with just as much to test orienteering skills; many returning participants commented on how tricky it was, and how they really enjoyed having to think the whole way. Less experienced orienteers could tackle the moderate course 4 (below), while younger ones and newcomers enjoyed their first experience on course 5, which gave them a chance to explore either side of the river.
The weather proved testing, with showers interspersed with sunshine, on and off all day. Enthusiasm wasn’t dampened, with courses universally enjoyed by all. The DROC crew once again put on a smoothly run event, with results posted online within just a few minutes of the last finishers collecting their lollies and returning their hired SI sticks.
A big shoutout to both Helen and Damian, who both arose in the cold, dark and wet to put out 30 controls. We also had heaps of help to bring them in quickly afterwards, which is very much appreciated!
