Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Bucks Walk, Donvale

Parking at Reynolds Rd carpark, it was a short walk to the Mullum Mullum Trail. 




Crossing the creek, we connected with Bucks Walking Trail. The paved path gave way to a wide and muddy gravel track, which narrowed into a single file track through the long undergrowth.















Fungi galore, from the kooky horse poo shaped fungus, to other more colourful varieties. 









We crossed a log bridge over some wetlands, with long green reeds surrounding us. 


















We popped out at the local equestrian club, where we took turns cantering around the course, taking the jumps and neighing with delight. Ah, sorry, that was my 8 year old self taking over for a moment. 😆






Wednesday, September 2, 2020

Longridge Walk, Warrandyte

Parking at the end of Alexander Rd, we headed through the gates of the Longridge Campground. The site is managed by Parks Vic for overnight group camping. 

It looks like a great place to camp with friends or family. You can BYO canoes, fishing gear, etc and there is plenty of open space to kick a ball, throw a frisbee, or just walk the surrounding trails.

Our walk took us across the former grazing lands, to the old 1920's Californian Bungalow farmhouse, perched high on the hill, overlooking the mountains. 
Fun fact: The house was used as a location in the 2013 film, Cut Snake.






We  trudged downhill to the banks of the Yarra, looking across to Eltham and more farm houses. 



We spotted many birds along the way; a few Eastern Grey kangaroos; one previous resident...







...and signs that deer had been in the area, like the shredded bark of this tree.

The fairly easy walk consisted of skinny tracks and gravel roads mixed with steep hills and grassy plains. The views were grand and the sights plentiful. 





Monday, August 31, 2020

100 Acres Reserve, Park Orchards.

Always on the lookout for a new walking trail to explore, I often find them right under my nose. That was the case with 100 Acres. 
I'd heard of it. 
Driven past it. 
Talked to people about it. 
Lived near it  for years. 
Eventually, I went there.
And it was lovely.  

Parking at the far end of the Domeney Reserve, we set off up North Boundary Track, following the fence line. This outer track is used for horseriding around 100 Acres, but we didn't see any. The crunch of crisp Autumn leaves on the gravel path made us sound like a group of horses trampling through.

We didn't really stick to a plan when walking; we mostly just meandered around turning left or right as the mood took us.

At High Track, we followed the path to Candelbark Track and Tadpole Dam. A curious Currawong in a tree overlooking the dam was the only bird we saw there.








A big stone seat on the edge of the dam was the perfect spot for a 5 minute rest.





Sun shining on glistening tree sap; the scentl of fresh pine needles; the sound of the Currawong cry -  all made for a good outing in the fresh air. 




And when the trees blow love hearts at you, you know you're in the right place. 




Where: Knees Rd, Park Orchards
When: Daily                                                     
Why: nature, walks
How much: FREE

Tuesday, June 30, 2020

Wombat Bend to Westerfolds Circuit

When the world is a little topsy turvy, it's nice to have your feet on the ground, exploring the great outdoors. 
One of my favourite places is Westerfolds Park. When my daughter was born, I pushed her around the park in a pram. When she was older, she played on the adventure playgrounds with her brother. Later, I joined a friend for weekly walks after the morning school run. 
These days, we just go there on a whim, knowing we're sure to see something interesting each visit and kids are never too old to go on a swing, a slide or a flying fox at the playground.
Sealed paths cover the entire park, allowing access for everyone on foot or on wheels. A few steep hills get your heart racing and your blood pumping, but you feel  so good afterwards.




























From Wombat Bend carpark, a short walk leads to a suspension bridge crossing the Yarra. The river is very wide at this point and home to a platypus or two. The bridge is home to approximately 20,000 cockatoos. 
Just kidding. *wink*



Across the other side, a steel boardwalk takes you towards Westerfolds. A myriad
of paths meander around the place - take your pick which one you choose, as they mostly join on to main tracks.
Birdwatchers will love this place, with so many different types of birds to be found. Here's a few that I've spotted.
























Ok, that last pic isn't birds, but it fits on the page. The huge mob of roos moves around a bit throughout the park. Sometimes the young males perform a morning boxing match for our entertainment . Thanks, boys!

The lovely old Westerfolds Manor sits high on the hill, with views for days. A perfectly positioned park bench nearby makes a good stop to rest for a few minutes. 





















































At dusk, back at Wombat Bend bridge, the cockies have gone to bed...




























...but this guy is out looking for dinner and you might see him splashing about near the rapids.