After the festivities and high spirits of the Vishu celebrations, was the next catch-up going to see a bit of a lull? Nah. Not among our “Changayimar”! It was a catch-up, day trip, adventure, and bonding exercise ..all rolled into one fun-filled day!
On a bright and sunny autumn weekend on the 27th of May, we headed out for a day trip to Watson’s Bay - a peninsula situated on the east side of Sydney harbor. A bunch of new faces, some recent friends, and long-timers all came together for a fun meet-up and walk, along the beautiful bayside. Having got together at Circular Quay, we then proceeded to board the ferry from Wharf 2 to our destination. Off the ferry went, skimming on the blue waters, the Sydney skyline disappearing behind us and onwards among a multitude of white little sailboats. At Watson’s Bay, the ferry arrived on a wooden pier hugged on the beach end by a floating restaurant called Doyle’s - a renowned landmark in the area having stood in the same location since 1885!
The group convened here for our first group photo of the day! What a lot of hugging and hand shaking, exchange of introductions and so much warmth there was, like a bunch of old school mates really !!
Right near the landing was Robertson Park - a beautiful space with manicured lawns and quaint white park benches, welcoming the troop onshore. From there we set off across the park, to our first stop for the day - ‘The Gap’ - an ocean cliff, facing the Tasman Sea. The lookout point offers amazing views of the blue waves crashing onto the steep vertical cliff faces. We followed the walkway to a slightly higher viewpoint and after having spent some time sightseeing, taking photos, and merry-making, we returned to base camp. The party broke up to buy lunch and regrouped at the aforementioned park benches for a sit-down meal and more conversations. Afterward, we found a sunny spot nearby and settled down in a circle for a round of friendly introductions and everyone participated with full enthusiasm, asking questions and getting to know each other really well.
The second leg of the day was the expedition towards Hornby Lighthouse. It was an easy walk, peppered with amazing views and lots of laughter. The first stop was Camp Cove Beach - a cute little beach tucked away from the crowds with beautiful beach views. From there we walked along the shoreline, navigating neatly constructed pathways, climbing slowly toward the top of the cliff face, and finally reaching the Hornby lighthouse. Along the path were breathtaking views of the ocean on our left side, with different types of boats gliding along the waves, glimmering in the afternoon sun. The weather was perfect with the gentle warm sun and lovely breeze. At the top, we regrouped again for group photos against the stunning backdrop. Needless to say, everyone went crazy taking a zillion photographs. We found a resting spot near the lighthouse where many of us were seen taking in the scenery sitting on top of the cliff face. After spending some more happy time near the lighthouse, we started our slow descent and walked back to the wharf side. A gentle sunset accompanied us as we took the return ferry from Watson’s Bay to Circular Quay, hugs and kisses followed as we said bye-byes and went our way home.
A beautiful day, spent at a beautiful location with amazing friends - could it get any better? Not that I know!
When life feels weary with all of its struggles, here is this space of friendship and camaraderie, that has been built up with a lot of care and love - the Changayimar group - just come and spent some time and one is sure to get all refreshed and recharged. It is the loving energy that each one of us exudes whenever we come together that makes this possible. To us, our group, and the future - hip hip hurray !!!
