Tracking History at Honeysuckle Creek
‘It was a moment that changed history, marked a new frontier in space exploration and technology, and is remembered around the world for the iconic images of a man walking on the moon.’ [https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6267686/canberras-small-steps-behind-the-one-giant-leap/]
We’re off to track down a bit of history as we take a picnic run out to the site of Canberra’s Honeysuckle Creek Tracking Station, a vital link in the Apollo 11 moon landing in July 1969.
There’s not a lot left of the Tracking Station now, located in the depths of Namadgi National Park, but it's a great drive to get there. It will take about an hour to drive to the Tracking Station site. Once there, you can pull out your tables, chairs and everything you need for a picnic feast.
We will travel as a group. But you may stop off on the way and enjoy the fabulous views. You should familiarise with the route and directions (see Google Maps link below) in advance so you will know where you are going. We will travel by Cotter Road, Paddys River Road, Tidbinbilla Road, Naas Road and Apollo Road. You can return the same way or go to south Canberra directly.
Some things to note:
- it’s about twice the elevation of Canberra, so bring a warm coat
- there are no bins at the site, so be prepared to take your rubbish back home
- toilet facilities are available at the campground, but they may be a bit primitive for some
- mobile reception may be dodgy.
(Catch up on the history at https://honeysucklecreek.net or https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-07-18/the-dish-is-a-great-comedy-but-certainly-not-a-documentary/11318862.)
Run Grade: This is a 'Cruiser' run, suitable for all drivers. It features some narrow, winding country roads, which are in generally good condition, although there may be some potholes to avoid. The Club Grading System is described at https://nsw.mx5.com.au/events/important-information/run-gradings.
RSVP to Mike Lawless: mike.lawless@bigpond.com
Google Maps link: https://goo.gl/maps/XykhSHxSvFpBTRzN7.
