Nothofagus

Isn't that just totally amazing! A 3,000 year old Antarctic Beech tree at Springbrook, a remnat from the last ice-age (which was just about the last winter Queensland had). They're also called Nothofagus for some reason -- I'm not sure which name is more unpronounceable. I decided to do the climb to Springbrook this morning, hoping desperately that last night's rain would stay. It didn't, but that did nothing to quell the humidity. I was sweating enough to wring out my jersey by the time I reached the summit. The views from there were non-existent in the clouds, but there were some nice shots from other parts of the mountain.







I also took a detour to Austinville just to add a few km to the ride. I really need to do another night ride down there before too much longer. The dirt roads were interesting to negotiate after last night's rain, and there was even a flooded causeway! There are few things I love more than the refreshing splash of water from crossing a flooded stream.
With the cooler southerly wind I'll be looking for more riding tomorrow. It's now the training phase for the New Zealand ride in 35 days' time.