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Hayes Creek Lures Top End Climbers 19 Sept 2010 1-Oct-2010 At 10:48:59 AM ClimbingNT

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Hayes Creek Lures Top End Climbers - Top End Climbers take no breaks, as Hayes Creek is climbed on Sunday!

On Sunday 19 September, a group of 9 determined climbers (plus photographer Jenn and dogs – Meg and Taz) battled their way down the Stuart Highway in a desperate dash to get in some weekend climbing action. Along the way they were faced with a constant flow of ‘grey nomads’ and the occasional mild shower. Luckily the climbing trip did not end in vain, as their spirits lifted after passing through Adelaide River and being presented with the distant blue skies of Hayes Creek.

The journey only had 1 detour, a quick rendezvous to collect fellow climbers, Kate and Dan as they had spent the night at the local camping ground.

Upon arrival to Hayes, the climbers loaded themselves to the hilt with gear, and slowly made their way through the lantana and pandanus leaves to the highly anticipated climbing sanctuary.

As the climbers approached the cliffs, leads were in demand!
Arullan was the first to step up to the plate, and made his mark on ‘Rambler’(16T). Overseeing the climb were keen enthusiasts Meg and Taz (Jenn’s dogs) who double-checked the gear of the next climber. Supposedly these checks were for safety purposes, however it was quickly discovered that both Meg and Taz had ulterior motives. The inspections were indeed searches for food!

After some ‘hen pecking’ from Kel, Steve was racked up and began leading the climb up ‘Smart Arse Cheeky Little Cow’ (14T**). The sabbatical from climbing was evident as Steve did a little divert off the route, but was quickly pulled back in line and continued on setting the scene for Kel to second the climb.

Chris Hart took Kate and Dan off to the right, and assisted with setting up a top rope on ‘Gentle Breeze’ (8). Kate and Dan in true form made quick work of ‘Gentle Breeze’, however the climb did provide to be an old favourite throughout the day, as each climber took their turn on the climb.

Chris Hart then lead his was up ‘Pot Belly’(14).

Meanwhile, Stu Young smashed his way up ‘Vodka and Orange’ (14T**) and was the first of many to conquer the overhang. In true “Stu Fashion”, the climb would not have been a success if he didn’t take the limelight and provide great photos for those with cameras.

Steve not wanting to miss this opportunity, jumped on Stu’s bandwagon and made quick work of ‘Vodka and Orange’ before everyone camped down in the shade and prepared for lunch.

After lunch it was decided that the group should split to allow everyone to get in as many climbs as possible. Chris, Stu, Kate and Dan made their way around to ‘An Ode to a Green Piece of Putty I found in my Armpit on a Midsummer’s Morning’ (15T**), with Stu leading the climb.

The remainder took turns climbing up ‘Vodka and Orange’, before Aru set off with his ‘expedition’ rack to tackle ‘Tin Peaches and Stretchy Balls’ (13T) with Micro Steve.

Climb of the day goes to Mel B. Despite it being her second time climbing, she took on the challenge of ‘Vodka and Orange’ and showed impressive determination and will hopefully complete the climb on her next trip to Hayes.

The group reunited late in the afternoon and the walk out was interrupted with a quick stop at the pub for some much needed refreshments before heading back up the highway to Darwin.

For photos and more details on the trip, visit: www.climbingnt.net.au