​'Amblers' ... ​Report by Ian Maver "on the experience of this slow walker:"

On this, the occasion of our last walk for the year, we Amblers were indistinguishable from the sprightly Ramblers as we all assembled at the site of the Australian Botanic Gardens in Shepparton.  Here on a fine sunny day we enjoyed a “new generation botanical experience”. Roused by encouraging words from our fearless leaders we set out for the very summit of Honeysuckle Rise. The views across the Goulburn Valley and on towards the distant ranges from this lookout were well worth the effort and we were treated to the themed Residence and Refugee Gardens as we passed along the way.  Workers could be seen developing the Terrace Garden site at the far end of Honeysuckle Rise. No oxygen was required during the ascent. From here the groups began to scatter going down the zig zag path towards the billabong, the Goulburn River, the wetlands and the surrounding native forest.  My path took me past the Weaving Garden along the Billabong Walk and out to the delightful Children’s Garden with its splendid abstract metal structures and a curious little hut.  It is inspiring to be able to meander within such a peaceful area, previously a landfill tip,  that now celebrates the glories of nature and the ambitions of a caring mankind.
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Lunch at the Billabong Garden Complex and Kitchen Café was a splendid conclusion to the day’s outing.
 
Ian Maver
‘Amblers’

'Ramblers' report by Julie McNeill

​Wednesday November 18th saw the walking group set off early for a visit to the Australian Botanic Gardens at Shepparton, with a rest break at Victoria Lake to regroup and check our directions. The Gardens, regenerated from the old Kialla landfill, are an amazing insight into the use of previously waste land, owing their design and planting in part to auspicing by the Australian Botanic Gardens at Cranbourne, and also to an active Friends group.
 
There were a variety of walking trails both on the flat and towards the summit, and both the Amblers and Ramblers tackled the challenge of the lookout, being rewarded with 360’ views across the Goulburn Valley.  Intriguing formal themed gardens, well stocked with indigenous plants, cascade down to the billabong and the Weaving and Children’s gardens.  After spending over an hour exploring, our group of 14 retreated to lunch under the wisteria at the locally run Billabong cafe and nursery.
 
The Friends’ Facebook page, Friends of the Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton,is a great introduction to the activities and sights at the Gardens.
 
Julie McNeill
"Ramblers"

Finally, on the dining side of things, some photos of lunch at the Billabong Garden Complex and Kitchen Cafe, and advance notice of the End of Year Gathering...

U3A Walkers End of Year Gathering
Baileys Winery, Glenrowan
Friday, 4 December 2020
Further details will be forwarded to members as they become available

​Margaret Walshe

Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton - “ A new generation botanical experience. The former landfill is being generated into a showcase of Australian native plants amongst distinct themed gardens and bush land that celebrates the history and diversity of the region”. As there is so much to explore about these gardens, google/safari Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton.

There are a variety of walking trails suitable for all abilities and interests. Wear sturdy shoes, bring water, snack, hat and if the forecast is for a sunny morning, it is suggested bring your “parasol” as there is no cover or shade on Honeysuckle Rise with views across the countryside.

Participants please meet at the Seniors/U3A Benalla car park at 8 am for 8.15 am departure.

Lunch: Billabong Garden Complex and Kitchen Cafe, Shepparton Again this complex has much to offer and provides supported employment opportunities for local people with a disability.

Further information and cafe menu, google/safari Billabong Garden Complex and Kitchen Cafe Shepparton.

Members wishing to join us on this walk and lunch, please contact Margaret Walshe on mwalshe20@gmail.com or 0427005202/57623906 by Monday, 16 November ‘20.

Thanks go to Julie and Helen for their input into preparing this walk and lunch location.

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday, 18 November 2020. Margaret Walshe

Photographs:  Ian Maver

Report by Ian Maver on "the experience of this slow walker:

"Well, this was an adventure….

After meeting together in Rotary Park, we “Amblers” parted from the “Ramblers” and headed along Barwidgee Creek to our first stop under the Great Alpine Road bridge.  We were in search of ceramic tiles made by two ladies of the town and whimsically placed on trees and rocks (and the underside of this bridge!) all along the footpath.  Here there was a collection of ducks and frogs and all manner of under-bridge dwellers.  Walking on a well-made track along the banks of the Ovens River - which was gloriously full and flowing vigorously - we found wallabies and ants, echidnas and birds, snakes and abstract arts and even little doors at the base of some trees. All ceramics of course. Many of the trees had bird boxes on their trunks and there were occasional glimpses across the paddocks back to town and forward to the high country ahead.  What a delight for visitors, young and old alike.  The natural peace and quiet of our river walk was occasionally enlivened with bird song and dog walkers and lunchtime joggers, all very welcome, and of course, the sounds of cheerful chatter within our group.  About 2km along the track, at Apex Park, we met up briefly with the Ramblers before they charged off again and we turned around and headed back at an even more leisurely pace than before to our lunch stop beside the historic log tobacco kiln in Rotary Park.  A splendid day’s outing.”

​Ian Maver

More photographs from Margaret Walshe...

Photographs:  Margaret Walshe

​As the “Amblers” turned right to study the mosaics under the Barwidgee Creek bridge, the “ Ramblers” bounced across the swing bridge and set off on the 2km track along the Ovens, enjoying the sounds of the birds and the rushing water, and keeping an eye out for mosaics hidden on rocks and tree routes.  At Apex Park we stopped for a morning tea break and admired the painted walls of the amenities-birds, mountains and trees covered every wall.  But we needed to move on before the Amblers caught up, so set off to connect with the Rail Trail and do a circuit of the town.  Along the way, we found mosaic balloons floating up an old brick wall, and we also spent some time studying  both the Big Tree, an ancient red gum, and the Phoenix tree.

With about 5km under our belts we returned under the Barwidgee Bridge for more mosaics, and enjoyed lunch under the trees with the Amblers.  The rain kindly held off all day.
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The Myrtleford Mosaic Trail has both an active Facebook page, and a website, myrtlefordmosaictrail.com.au. It is a great way of adding interest to a walk for young and old.
 
Julie McNeill 

Wednesday 4 November:  Myrtleford - Ovens River Scenic Trail; Myrtleford Historic Walk and the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail.
 
Myrtleford, nestled in the Ovens Valley with Mt Buffalo providing a dramatic backdrop, offers many interesting places to visit. Julie McNeill will take us on these diverse walks with something of interest to all walkers and abilities. The Ovens River Trail, also known as Myrtleford’s Mosaic Trail, is a treasure cove of hidden art! This sealed path closely follows the Ovens River between Rotary and Apex Parks, passes through native bush and crosses the river twice. The Township Walk of Discovery, highlights the significant historical aspect of Myrtleford’s fascinating life ... settlement, war and industries. The Murray to Mountain Rail Trail - an opportunity to walk a section of this 95km trail that goes through the town!

We will be observing the relevant COVID-19 Protocols. Participants please contact Margaret Walshe Ph: 57623906/0427005202 or mwalshe20@gmail.com by Monday, 2 November 2020. Meet at the Seniors/ U3A car park, Fawkner Drive, Benalla, 9.15am for 9.30am departure.
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Margaret Walshe ​

​On Wednesday 21 October 2020, 14 people travelled to El Dorado to complete two walks around the town on a fine pleasantly warm day.

One group met at the large dredge near the entrance of the town and after exploring this huge very interesting historic structure, followed the sealed trail into town.  Along the way there were lots of interesting snippets of information on appropriately located interpretive boards.  There were many colourful gardens to view along the way too with some vibrant colours abounding.

The second group met at the centre of town and after reading the detailed boards that outlined the history of the town and the local area, proceeded along Reid’s walk to the old swing bridge. This walk traversed a lot of the area the dredge had excavated when it first commenced operations in 1936. It also followed the course of Reedy Creek which the group were able to access in a couple of places. At the swing bridge, the group then returned to town via the road, once again viewing the interpretive signs.

Lunch was had at Victoria’s smallest pub, the McEvoy Tavern.  Two tables were set out on the lawn under a beautiful shady tree and everyone ordered from a lovely menu (the chips were ‘to die for’).  Saw one decadent dessert too!

​After lunch the groups set out on the two walks in reverse. Both groups walked approximately 7 kms in total over the two routes.

Once the walks were completed, everyone returned to the pub and enjoyed an ice cream before returning to Benalla.

This was the first group booking the tavern had taken since Covid restrictions were eased and full credit to our hosts and their staff on making it such an enjoyable occasion. This town has quite a few other walks for walkers of all abilities to explore and the dredge is something not to be missed. At present the museum is not open due to Covid restrictions.
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Wendy Sturgess