The Grampians located in Victoria's Western Plains are a series of mountain ranges made of sandstone and showcase an impressive landscape with abundant wildlife. We stayed at an eco-mindful camp ground called Grampians Paradise, and the owner mentioned the park had been operating within the same family for over one hundred years. We woke to hear kangaroos or possibly wallabies nibbling on the grass outside of our tent and we're fortunate to be the only campers on this particular weekend. The Grampians were named by NSW Surveyor-General Sir Thomas Mitchell in 1836 after a mountain in his homeland Scotland, but the indigenous who have occupied this land for over 20,000 years call it, Gariwerd. The Grampians have been utilised in many industries including, timber, gold mining, a sandstone quarry and of course now predominately tourism; the area is incredible, with many walking tracks and breathtaking scenery. Mackenzie FallsThis is the largest waterfall in the region and the only one that flows year round. Mackenzie Falls is supplied by nearby Lake Wartook, a catchment area that provides water to Horsham, a local town. The falls will only stop flowing if this lake runs dry. Bushfire went through this area in 2014 and the evidence is still visible with the many kangaroo tails, that thrive after a fire now inhabiting the land. Shovel and I ventured on two walks, one to a lookout and the other down to the base of the falls, both are only short walks with the one to the base including about 250 steps, but the paths are well laid out, which made for a lovely adventure. The Indigenous word for the falls is Migunang wirub, meaning black fish floating on top of water. Despite searching for the Indigenous word the falls were named after Captain MacKenzie, by Major Mitchell in 1836.
Wonderland LoopThe Wonderland Loop lives up to it's name as the walk literally is a wonderland, with many interesting components and various terrains, culminating in spectacular views over Halls Gap and Lake Bellfield. The track is full of many fascinating surprises and points of interest along the way including, The Grand Canyon, Splitter Falls, The Cool Chamber, Silent Street and the Pinnacles. The walk was really enjoyable, yet challenging and both made us feel regenerated and happy to be out once again in the nature.
The Pinnacle LookoutThe Wonderland Loop culminates at the top of the summit at The Pinnacles. I was absolutely shite scared heading out to the tip of the pinnacle, even with the handrail I had to dash back to the main section away from the overhang. But, sucked it up and headed out again for a few quick snaps to prove that I did it, before gumbying my way back to safety. My legs were jelly and I certainly lived up to my nickname, Gumby today.
Ted Errey Nature Circuit
Anakie Gorge is part of the Brisbane Rangers National Park located approximately 40 kilometres north of Geelong. The Rangers offer many interesting walks, but we chose the Ted Errey Nature Circuit, which is approximately a 10 kilometre circuit. The walk traversed various landscapes and we were rewarded with views over the Range and of the surrounding lands. The Nature Circuit was created by the Geelong Field Naturalists Club in 2001 paying homage to Ted Errey, who was a botanical expert, a reliable source of all information botanical, the founding member of the botany group in 1972 and was highly regarded in the naturalist community for this knowledge and for his dedicated service. His work has assisted in providing a greater understanding of the flora of the Brisbane Rangers and the interpretative signage dotted along the circuit showcases his efforts, and provides the walker with an opportunity to fully appreciate their natural surrounds. Ted Errey we salute you.
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The JourneyChoose Curiosity The Catalogue
November 2023
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