The Walpole and Nornalup of Gary Muir
Dress code: bare feet.
Before you get too excited that applies only to the captain. You, the paying guest on Gary Muir’s boat, must dress like a paying guest – that is to say, casually.
Gary, part farmer, part naturalist, part historian, comes from a long line of Muir family pioneers. Walpole and Nornalup are in his blood. The inlets and the stories that go with them are his passion.
So, settle in. Already, the tourists are grinning expectantly. Some have been before and have come again. Others have been tickled by Gary’s welcome, and by the shoe disinfecting procedures before boarding. At this point best not mention you come from a metropolis on the East Coast. You will end up part of a running gag.
Gary Muir is our host. He is also a raconteur, pedlar of historical gossip and very, very funny.
It should be said that while the waterways Gary is showing us are beautiful, the captain is scampering from port to starboard, from map to photograph – all the while with running commentary.
Walpole and Nornalup are the centre of Gary’s world. The stories he tells make up his DNA. OK, so I’m a fan. And yes, I have made the trip several times and will again.
In life you should meet bare foot Gary Muir and travel his beloved and beautiful Walpole and Nornalup inlets. Good for the soul.
David de Vos, Parks Ambassador.
