Strong winds

The Cumberland River Holiday Park sits within a deep valley on the southwest coast, adjacent to the Great Ocean Road. Nestled in Otway National Park, it draws water from the Cumberland River, which runs next to the towering cliffs that outline the valley. This location offers a scenic and tranquil environment perfect for pitching a tent. On Saturday, the park manager visited each campsite to inform campers about the anticipated overnight high winds. He advised everyone to secure their tents and stow away any loose belongings, as a northerly wind was predicted to sweep down the valley and through the park during the night.

Around 8:00 pm, the wind intensified. Even while I was asleep in a cabin, the strong gusts shook it, making me wonder how it affected those in tents. By morning, the wind’s impact on campers was noticeable. Many had not slept and spent the night battling their falling tents, trying to keep them standing. Exhausted, some campers returned home instead of enduring another night outdoors. The fierce winds continued into the morning but nearly vanished by noon, as if someone had flipped a switch to turn off the gusts. I was thankful not to be sleeping in a tent this year.