"Here are my ramblings based on somewhat hazy recollections of yesterday’s end of year lunch at Baileys...  Ian"

Blue and green, bright and airy …. and warm.  A sunny summer’s afternoon on the tranquil garden lawns of Baileys winery.  This carefully kept, tastefully restored late-nineteenth century winery on the western slopes of the Warby Ranges is a real gem of this region. 

We were given a tour of some of the property – sincere thanks to our guide Ken Dosser – where the worker’s cottages sparked some family memories amongst the group.  Heading over to the forge we passed a curious roofless building, or perhaps an enclosure, with two low doors but nobody knows what it was for.  It is starting to intrigue me.  The forge itself is home to the largest hand-operated grinding wheel I have ever seen along with the usual, albeit aged, artifacts of a rural station workshop.  The Reception Room in the Clydesdale Stables was an innovative modernization with its chandeliers and (imagined) red carpet whilst the cool room was an 18° haven for learning about oval vats and round barrels but especially about their contents. 

Sitting in the lovely gardens following our tour we enjoyed totally organic food from the wood-fired pizza oven and many of us (we were 17 happy walkers and friends but without 6 others who were unable to attend) indulged in a glass or two of wine from what is perhaps the largest organic vineyard in the Southern Hemisphere.  Friendly staff, good company and engaging conversation are the perfect ingredients for such an entertaining and relaxing lunch.  We look forward to more escapes and escapades next year!

​Ian Maver 

Photographs:  Andi Stevenson 

U3A Walkers End of Year Gathering
Baileys Winery, Glenrowan
Friday 4 December 2020
Meet at the Seniors Community Centre Car Park at 11 am. ​

Margaret Walshe 

​'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.
​
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.
​
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.
​
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.
​

Wendy Sturgess

The Friends Track, Warby Ranges Walk was postponed due to the BOM weather forecast, the risk of a member slipping on wet rocks or a person floating down the creek that forms Brien’s Gorge and Waterfall!! If members wish, I am happy to reschedule this walk on a fine day. The attached photos were taken on a previous walk.​

Margaret Walshe

Wednesday 21 October:   Eldorado – from the historic dredge to town and more  

On Wednesday 21st October it is proposed to conduct a walk in El Dorado, weather and COVID restrictions permitting.  It is proposed to walk from the old historic dredge to the main part of the town near the museum.  It may be possible to organise a lunch for the group at Victoria’s smallest  pub before completing nearby Reid’s walk to the swing bridge. Please meet behind the Senior Citizen’s centre at 9.30am.
I
f any of these plans change, we will contact you before the day.  On the day  group numbers could still be limited to 10 but we may be able to organise two groups.  Please notify me on 0403226649 or wendes47@bigpond.com if you wish to come.  
​
Wendy Sturgess

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.
​
Margaret Walshe 

​As a result of the tightening of the COVID-19 restrictions from 6 August, this will be the last Easy Walk until possibly mid-September.  Please keep up to date on the website for notification of the next walk when restrictions ease.

Wendy Sturgess

It's on!  Wednesday 5 August 2020 - Winton Wetlands #2
We just made it before the Stage 3 restrictions are introduced!  On Wednesday, 5 August ‘20 (1st Wednesday) the plan is to walk another part of the Winton Wetlands Trail, this time from Benalla out to the Yarrawonga Road. Meet at Seniors/U3A carpark 9.45am for departure at 10.00 am.   As mentioned in the July newsletter, members were asked to notify Wendy Sturgess on 0403226649 or to email her on wendes47@bigpond.com no later than Friday 31 July if they plan to attend as there will be a limit on numbers. 

To be rescheduled!  Reef Hills Walk
The Reef Hills walk proposed for Wednesday 19 August will be rescheduled to adhere to Stage 3 Covid-19 restrictions applying from Thursday 6 August.  Reef Hills, part of the gold rush era, was worked for reef and alluvial gold and proclaimed a State Park in 2002.  Hopefully COVID-19 will allow us to visit this area later in Spring to enjoy the wildflowers.
​
Please keep an eye on emails, the newsletter and the website for updates.  Margaret Walshe ph: 5762 3906/ 0427005202 or mwalshe20@gmail.com .

Margaret Walshe and Wendy Sturgess

​Easy Walks  has developed into three interchangeable groups ... the Gentle Amblers; the
Medium Pacers and the Brisk Walkers, titles for this report!  This meets the varying
abilities and the interests of members plus the current COVID19 distance regulations.

On a sunny winter’s morning on Wednesday 29 July, 15 members,walked varying distances, with the Medium Pacers and Brisk Walkers walking on the track from the Dam Wall to and around The Hub at Winton Wetlands.  The Gentle Amblers walked along part of the track and the woodland area by The Hub. All walkers experienced the striking, stark landscape, history of the area and the Wetlands ecosystem.

​Thank you to the leaders, Wendy, Lyn and Glen and to members who contribute in many
ways. Suggestions invited for the name of our present U3A title, Easy Walks and the 3
walking groups?
​
Margaret Walshe

Photographs:  Andi Stevenson and Wendy Sturgess

‘A day out of the box’ greeted 13 walkers who travelled to the township of Dookie on July 15th to walk the 4 km rail trail walk from the township towards Katandra.  The beautiful sunny day highlighted the healthy crops, the pretty township and it’s historic church on the hill.

Two separate groups followed the trail with its explanatory sign boards.  

​The first group completed 3.5 kms of the trail, then returned via Saddleback Road which allowed closer viewing of St Mary’s Church on the hill behind the town.  

Photographs:  Andi Stevenson, Wendy Sturgess

​The second group (or 'Gentle Amblers') completed a shorter stage of the trail, then returned back the way they had come.

Photographs:  Meg Dillon, Fujii Kyohei, Andi Stevenson, Wendy Sturgess, Marg Walshe

​"It is wonderful to have so many people contributing to these walks by taking photos, offering to take small groups and assisting in so many ways ... a team effort."   Marg Walshe

Helen Malone, prepared a very interesting and diverse morning walk in early July for 17 happy members in three separate groups. Then, in the early afternoon, Helen arranged the opening of the Museum and a walk around the Southern Aurora Memorial Garden. In total, a walk of just under 8 km walk recorded by Andi Stevenson GPS.

​The Honeysuckle Creek Walking Track Loop meanders along both sides of the Creek, with signage and monuments describing historic and past events. The associated features - seating, footbridges, signs and landscaping are a Violet Town community initiative. Over 80 species of birds have been identified including the locally endangered Grey Crowned Babbler, The observant members discovered two Grey Crowned Babbler nests in a tree along the creek and a resident excitedly showed us a nest in her garden.

Shadforth Reserve gave us another taste of nature; once an 18 hole golf course, cricket field and a one mile horse training circuit, now also popular with walkers. The areas of remnant indigenous plants are complimented by the Community Forest with initial plantings in 2007 within the racetrack providing habitat for birdlife including the endangered Grey Crowned Babbler.

Following a BYO lunch, Helen walked us through the productive and colourful Mary’s Community Garden to the Museum, once a blacksmith, hardware supplies and an undertaker business. We appreciate Brian and John opening the building for our visit and for sharing their extensive knowledge from Major Thomas Mitchell camping by the creek in 1836 to the present day plus the displays.

The nearby Southern Aurora Memorial Garden was a poignant reminder of this train disaster on 7 February 1969. In true country spirit, local people flocked to the scene to help and support the nine who died and over one hundred passengers and crew injured.

Thank you to Wendy Sturgess for taking a group on a shorter walk.

U3A Easy Walkers appreciate the effort by Helen Malone in providing our fellow members with a very informative and varied outing to Violet Town on a pleasant winter’s day.

​Margaret Walshe 

Photographs:  Wendy Sturgess, Andi Stevenson, Margaret Walshe

Wednesday, 1 July 2020 - Violet Town

Helen Malone is preparing an interesting walk along the Honeysuckle Creek Walking Track and the Heritage Trail around the oldest surveyed inland town in Victoria followed by BYO lunch. Please confirm your attendance by Monday, 29 June ‘20 with Margaret Walshe 57623906/0427005202 or mwalshe20@gmail.com. Meet at the carpark behind the Seniors Complex, Fawkner Drive, Benalla at 9.45am for 10am departure.

​Wednesday 15 July 2020 - Dookie Rail Trail

On Wednesday 15th July (3rd Wednesday) we will explore the Dookie Rail Trail.   Attendees need to bring their own lunch to have at the conclusion of the walk as the pub is not open for lunch on that day.   Please notify Wendy Sturgess on 0403226649 (leave a message if necessary) or email wendes47@bigpond.com no later than Friday 10 July if you would like to attend as there will be a limit on numbers. Meet at the Senior/U3A Car Park at 9.45 am for a 10 am departure.  

Wednesday 29 July ‘20 - Winton Wetlands #1

Winton Wetlands is the largest restoration project in the Southern Hemisphere! On Wednesday 29 July (5th Wednesday) two groups will be walking from the Dam Wall to the Mokoan Hub.  Lyn Hawken and Margaret Walshe will take two groups of 10, maximum 20 walkers from the Dam Wall to The Hub, distance 5½ to 6½ kms, car shuttle required.

​Wendy Sturgess has offered to take other walkers on a shorter walk around The Hub including The Woodland Walk.

There is interpretative signage explaining the history and features of the area along the tracks. As the tracks will be wet, wear appropriate footwear, walking poles maybe applicable. For further information go to: www.wintonwetlands.org.au

Lunch will be BYO or purchase a hot take-away from The Hub Cafe; further details when COVID19 Restrictions are known.  Meet at Seniors/U3A carpark 9.45am for departure at 10am.  Participants please contact Margaret Walshe by Monday, 27 July ‘20 ph: 0357623906/0427005202 or mwalshe20@gmail.com

Wednesday 5 July '20 - Winton Wetlands #2

​On Wednesday, 5 August ‘20 (1st Wednesday)  the plan is to walk another part of the Winton Wetlands Trail, this time from Benalla out to the Yarrawonga Road. Meet at Seniors/U3A carpark 9.45am for departure at 10.00 am. Please notify Wendy Sturgess on 0403226649 (leave a message if necessary) or email wendes47@bigpond.com no later than Friday 31 July if you would like to attend as there will be a limit on numbers. 

Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walshe

Welcome back to U3A Easy Walks!  Following the lifting of some of the COVID 19 restrictions, Easy Walks will recommence on Wednesday, 17 June 2020 whilst adhering to the appropriate protocols. During the winter months, walks will be held on the first and third Wednesday’s of the month, close to Benalla and of shorter duration ... late morning walk followed by BYO lunch.

Wednesday 17th June 2020 - Wangaratta
Our first modified Easy Walk will be held on Wednesday 17th June at Wangaratta.   The walk will start at the Scout Park in Vincent Road and the group will walk along the One Mile creek trail northwards and return for a total of approximately 5-6 kms.
We will meet at the car park behind the Senior Citizen’s Building at 9.45am for a 10am departure.  Please bring your own lunch to have at the conclusion of the walk.
Those wishing to participate are asked to contact Wendy Sturgess no later than Friday 12th June on 0403226649 (leave message if necessary).   Maximum numbers will be dictated by the regulations operating on the day and there will be limited car-pooling.

Wednesday, 1 July 2020 - Violet Town
Helen Malone is preparing an interesting walk along the Honeysuckle Creek Walking Track and the Heritage Trail around the oldest surveyed inland town in Victoria followed by BYO lunch. Please confirm your attendance by Monday, 29 June ‘20 with Margaret Walshe 57623906/0427005202 or mwalshe20@gmail.com. Meet at the carpark behind the Seniors Complex, Fawkner Drive, Benalla at 9.45am for 10am departure.

Proposed Walks
Wednesday, 15 July 2020 - Dookie Rail Trail
August 2020 - Winton Wetlands Walking Track
Springtime 2020 - Warby-Ovens National Park

Wendy and I look forward to seeing you in our great outdoors enjoying each another’s company.

Do you have a walk you would like to share with our group? Speak with Wendy or Margaret.
​
Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walsh

Our first modified Easy Walk will be held on 17th June at Wangaratta.   The walk will start at the Scout Park in Vincent Road and the group will walk along the One Mile creek trail northwards and return for a total of approximately 5-6 kms.

We will meet at the car park behind the Senior Citizen’s Building at 9.45am for a 10am departure.  Please bring your own lunch to have at the conclusion of the walk.

Those wishing to participate are asked to contact Wendy Sturgess no later than Friday 12th June on 0403226649 ( leave message if necessary).   Maximum numbers will be dictated by the regulations operating on the day and there will be limited car pooling.
​
Wendy Sturgess
Margaret Walshe

Photos: Margaret Walshe

T​he May 2020 U3A Easy Walk was scheduled to take us to the historic town of  Beechworth that dates back to Victoria’s gold rush era.

The town offers many nationally significant buildings, magnificent old avenues and a large number of parks and gardens.  Plantings of the trees began in the 1860’s, many are protected by heritage regulations. The morning walk would have taken us through this area of the town; the Chinese Gardens and by Lake Sambell, originally the site of The Rocky Mountain Mining site.

The afternoon walk plan was to explore the various walks around the precinct of Mayday Hills, a decommissioned State Lunatic Asylum. The main building, which dates back to 1867, has been declared architecturally significant by the Heritage Trust of Victoria as a fine example of Italianate-style; many of the 67 other original buildings remain. The gardens cover an area of 27 acres, planted in the late 19th century as a botanical setting of exotic trees and shrubs donated by the Royal Botanical Gardens in Melbourne. The National Trust (Victoria) has classified over 200 Mayday Hills’ trees as significant.

The return drive would have been through part of the rugged Beechworth Historic Park along the scenic Gorge Rd overlooking Beechworth.

If you are interested in further information on the History of Beechworth, Walks, Mayday Hills, go to explorebeechworth.com.au then click on menu for sub-headings. If your interest is in the names of the Mayday Hills’ 200 trees classified by the National Trust (Victoria) go to explorebeechworth.com.au click on menu, click on Beechworth Treescape then download Treescape brochure.

Gone Missing: A CD of “Wildflowers in the Reef Hills, Benalla” by Vaughan Cowan; contains around 90 wildflowers recorded by Vaughan and Marion Cowan over the decades. If you find this CD, it would be appreciated if you could please return it to Margaret Walshe when convenient.
​
Wendy Sturgess
Margaret Walshe

On Wednesday 18 March, Benalla U3A asked Convenors to make a decision on future programs. U3A Easy Walks Convenors, Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walshe have decided to postpone scheduled Easy Walks due to the COVID 19 Pandemic.

This is a precautionary measure as we cannot ensure we can fully comply with the recommended protocols.  It has meant the postponement of two previously advertised walks– the first on April 1 along One Mile Creek, Wangaratta, the second on May 6 to see Beechworth’s Mayday Hills and Lake Sambell in autumn splendour.

We hope this will be a short term situation and walks can resume on our interesting walking tracks. Take care and stay safe.

​Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walshe
​Thursday 19 March 2020

Please note - on March 21st the Executive of the Committee of Management announced the cancellation of  all courses and activities until the end of Semester 1, when the decision will be reviewed.  

Beechworth offers magnificent old Avenues and a large number of Parks and Gardens with plantings which began in the 1860’s, many protected by heritage regulations.  The morning walk will take us through this area by the town and Lake Sambell.  The afternoon walk will be around the precinct of Mayday Hills, the main building dates back to 1867.  The gardens cover an area of 27 acres; they were planted in the late 19th century as a botanical setting of exotic trees and shrubs donated by the Royal Botanical Gardens in Melbourne; set against a backdrop of magnificent native trees.  The National Trust (Victoria) has classified over 200 Mayday Hills trees as significant. For a list of these trees go to explore beechworth/treescape

Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walshe

Fifteen intrepid walkers arrived in light rain at the Yarrawonga Weir on 4 March to walk over the Weir then downstream of the Murray River to Gorman Park NSW. We heard and sighted numerous water and land birds; several curious kangaroos and the marvelled at the spectacular bark on the ancient gum trees.

As steady rain had set in, we lunched under cover by Lake Mulwala and made the unanimous decision to cancel the afternoon walk due to inclement weather. Not to be deterred, we proceeded to Rich Glen Cafe for coffee and cake plus the purchased of olive oil and other products. Not entirely a day we had planned but we all welcomed the substantial rain.

Margaret Walshe

Photographs:  Wendy Sturgess and Margaret Walshe