'The Baird' (Ozzy Grade 12), is one of the most famous and popular routes in Australia and justifiably so. Today we got to go and see for ourselves on the journey that weaves its way up these steep cliffs. Four long pitches of sustained climbing, with some intermittent on and off showers just to add to the drama!
We got off to a steady start up the enormous first pitch. Careful rope work was needed to prevent some terminal rope drag, after climbing over 40m of rope length around various overhangs. I was rewarded for my efforts with a comfy stance on the edge of a small cave. Clare carried on past on an exposed 'traversing' pitch and soon disappeared out of sight.
In the other direction, I couldn't help notice that the horizon had suddenly disappeared in an incoming rain shower was rapidly approaching. Oh dear! Thankfully, Clare had reached the safety of the next belay before it arrived. I stayed pretty dry in my cave stance, but Clare had to sit and take it on, hanging from the cliff as it passed.
Back home or in the Alps, this could have been a major drama, but having experienced this kind of thing yesterday, we just sat tight and before too long, we'd watched it pass overhead and off into the distance. Blue skies would follow and with the sun back out, the rock literally dried before our eyes and we could continue upwards.
Before the final pitch, there is a huge ledge (described in our guide as big enough to accommodate a brass band!). There was also a large overhanging roof, which kept us dry as the next wave of rain passed over.
It was all rather convenient really - what could have become a epic struggle in the wet was avoided again, by sitting it out, and watching it pass and letting it dry out, while enjoying a sandwich!
The final pitch was the steepest and probably the best. Outrageously steep for the grade, yet festooned with giant hand holds. What this means in climbing terms, is that you could feel like a real rock star, with a hundred or so metres of air below your feet and nothing but overhanging rock above your head. It's a wild finale (and probably the easiest pitch despite its appearance!).
On the summit, the sun was blazing, so we sat a while soaking up the views of the flat lands with the Grampians just visible off in the distance.
Even at this high point, the journey still had some adventure to give. A scramble off the back, led into a cave; a squeeze out the back took us to the abseil chains. One abseil, a shelter in a cave while another shower passes, then finally a walk back down to the flatlands.
We're camped again nearby at the Natimuk 'Lake' camp. I asked the owner about the low (non-existent really) water levels and she said that three years ago they had a really hot summer and the whole thing just evaporated!! They are still praying for rain. This really is a harsh country.
Baird Buttress:
- The Baird (12)***
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