​The Mackeys’ Lookout walk in December was the final U3A ‘Bushwalking - Mid-Week Walk’.  U3A’s partnership with the Benalla Bushwalking Club (BBC) commenced following a forum Margaret Walshe helped organise in 2002 which identified three layers of exercise and the need to be able to ‘upshift’ and ‘downshift’.  Margaret, a member of both U3A and the BBC, liaised with the BBC President at the time, Terry Sydes, who supported this principle.  Terry became the first convenor of Mid-Week Walks, with BBC organised Mid-Week Walks for adventurous bushwalkers offered to U3A members alongside Easy Walks.  Margaret played an important role in promoting the program and later became convenor.  Avid U3A bushwalker Vaughan Cowan then convened Mid-Week Walks for many years, with John Boehm taking over the role in 2019.

With fewer U3A members participating, the BBC committee recently decided to revert Mid-Week Walks back to its Benalla Bushwalking Club program origins.  U3A Benalla would like to thank the BBC for operating in tandem with the U3A Bushwalking program for almost two decades.  Thank you, John Boehm, for convening the group for the past three years, thanks also to Bev Thornell for the wonderful reports and photographs in the newsletter, Facebook and Mid-Week Walks  web page.    

​U3A members are welcome to become members of the Benalla Bushwalking Club and participate in their activities.   

​Bev Thornell

November 10, 2021 - Mt Buffalo Underground River.

Ten walkers set off from Lake Catani in threatening weather conditions.  The track was rocky and slowly descended until the underground river outlet was reached. Here the group took a break before climbing a long steep section of the path.  Reaching the top provided some good views and photo opportunities.   

We stopped for lunch at the Chalet car park as well as checking out the Chalet and viewing points.   Then headed back to Lake Catani, crossing the creek at the dam wall to walk around the lake and returning to the cars for afternoon tea.   

​Weather conditions turned out to be ideal. Nice to see new member Margie come on her first walk. 

John Boehm

(More photos in previous post)


​Next Midweek Walk - Wednesday 8th December - Mt Buffalo - Mackey's Lookout & Return

Departing from Mackey's Lookout we will walk along the Big Walk Track up to the Gorge and Chalet. The 5km track will take us past many short off-shoot tracks leading to Marriott's Lookout, Crystal Brook Falls, Pulpit Rock, and Wilkinson's Lookout.  Return the same way. Total distance 11-12 km.

Be prepared for a relatively long but superb day.
Rating M- 4- 3
Contact: Wendy Baker 0429780179

John Boehm

Bev Thornell
(Source:  U3A Benalla and District Facebook Page)

The October walk to Ned’s Lookout was postponed.   Instead, Gill Sydes led a short wildflower walk in the Killawarra section of the Warby National Park. 

“Many flowers were spotted and photographed, including unusual Bearded Orchids. The walk finished by lunchtime, well before the evening's expected rainstorms. 
Unfortunately, we realised there were feral deer in the Warbys.   Well done, Annie, for braking in time!”  Bev Thornell. 
 
Next Midweek Walk – Wednesday 10 November – MT BUFFALO

Lake Catani to Chalet via underground river track and return via lake walk.
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts 7.45 am Leave Benalla 8 am
Rating: S - 3 - 3 (Easy)
Contact: John Boehm 0428 254 801

John Boehm

​The September walk to ‘The Paps’ was canceled due to covid lockdown.

Next Midweek Walk - Wednesday 13 October -  NED’S LOOKOUT

A wildflower walk along tracks. Bit of a steep climb onto Ned’s lookout. Lovely views of surrounding farmland.
​
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts behind Aldi 8.30 am leave at 8.45 am.
Rating: S - 3 - 3 (Easy)
Contact: Angela Stratton 0419 38 41 87
​
John Boehm

“My on-again, off-again, on-again walk. Thanks to the relaxation of the regional lockdown, the walk I was leading went ahead.  We did three different walks in the Chiltern/Mt. Pilot National Park - White Box Walk, Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site, and Mt. Pilot - around 11km in total.  It was so good to get outside and enjoy our beautiful country.” Wendy Baker

“This month's Benalla Bushwalking Club's mid-week outing included 3 separate walks in the Chiltern-Mt Pilot National Park. Leader, Wendy Baker, began by taking us around the undulating 8.5km White Box Walk, through remnant Box Ironbark forest, Golden Wattle in full bloom and some hard to spot early wildflowers. Back at Honeyeater Picnic Area, we tucked into lunch, then drove on to Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site: reached after a 45min. steep climb through huge rocks, past the Milmulyan Lookout, offering panoramic views. The Aboriginal Rock Art viewing platform is closed off at present, but the site is still worth visiting. Our third walk, from the Mt Pilot Car Park, followed a short, steep path up to the windy Summit. We were treated to spectacular 360°views. A metal compass on a rock plinth points out surrounding landmarks and mountains. After a windblown photo opportunity, we were happy to return to the shelter of the Car Park for afternoon tea...a Lemon Cake Fest (thank you talented cooks). Thanks also to Wendy for an enjoyable day's walking...in ideal weather.” Bev Thornell

​Coming up on Wednesday, September 8  - THE PAPS
(Please note – it is almost certain that this walk will be cancelled due to Covid) 
A steady climb to both the north and south peaks for stunning views of the surrounding
countryside especially across Lake Eildon.
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts 9.00 am Leave Benalla at 9.15 am
Rating: S - 4 - 3 (Medium)
Contact: Wendy Baker 0429 780 179

John Boehm

Let's explore Mt Pilot N.P. Three walks in one day!  

​First, the 8.5 km White Box Walk just east of Chiltern. Then on to the Yeddonba Aboriginal Cultural Site for a short walk, through rocky outcrops with wonderful views. We may see aboriginal rock caves if the affected sections of the track have been repaired. On to the summit of Mt Pilot. A short walk from the car park to the 545m summit for 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Returning home via Beechworth. Total length about 11 km.

Meet at Barkly St tennis courts 8.15 am Leave Benalla at 8.30 am Contact: Wendy Baker 0429 780 179

​To be Rescheduled: Wednesday 14 July Loggers Lane Warby Ranges This walk was canceled due to climatic conditions. It will be rescheduled as a weekend walk later in the year.

​John Boehm

WEDNESDAY JULY 14 LOGGERS LANE, WARBY RANGES M - 4 - 3

Starting from the Wangandary Road, the track is steepish and undulating to Taylor's track. On the  way diverting up a hill to get a view of Wangaratta. Returning via Taylors, Booth road, and track.

Expect to see some exceptional grass tree habitats. Recommend walking poles and good fitness.

Meet at Barkly St Tennis Courts 9.15 am - Leave Benalla 9.30 am.
​
Leader: John Boehm 0428 254 801

On Wednesday June 9, while sensible folk were relaxing at home in front of the fire, seven  hardy Bushwalkers braved the elements to undertake a 6.81 walk along Seven Creeks Apex Walking Track.  Fortunately for us, although it was indeed very cold, the weather (so far) wasn't as bad as predicted. 

The first section was a pleasant stroll on each side of Seven Creeks, which was running strongly.  After a short break in the park, we continued along Apex Track and crossed over the Euroa/Strathbogie Road to tackle the steep 2.34 km path up Balmattum Hill, still exhibiting damage from a fire 18 months ago. ​

At the Turntable/Rotunda/Shelter (the jury is still out on the correct name), Maggie checked the radar (so far so good) so we resumed walking uphill, taking care on the slippery path.  The distant clouds were looking ominous, so Maggie sensibly rechecked the radar. 

It was a shock to discover an impressively coloured pixelated image…indicating a U-turn and a hasty backtrack to the cars.  A slightly bedraggled group huddled under the Euroa Park shelter to enjoy arvo. tea and sweet treats. 

​Thanks to all walkers who trusted me enough to be lured from their warm homes to take part in a (surprisingly) pleasant day's outing. 
  
Bev Thornell

On Wednesday 12 May, 19 Mid-Week Walkers, led by Helen Spinks, tackled Mt. Meg in warm late Autumn weather. 

​Mt. Meg Nature Reserve is situated on the outskirts of Thoona.  The ascent involves correctly following one of the plethoras of kangaroo tracks throughout the Reserve.  Not having those long legs and hopping ability, we struggled at times, scrambling around rocks, climbing over logs, and dodging low boughs.  Disconcertingly, Mt Meg kept moving further and further away as we headed towards it, but eventually, we reached the summit in time for lunch.  Views over Thoona's laser graded farm paddocks across distant hills were our reward. 

A scramble down the steep slope to the fence line shortened the return to our parked cars.  On this relatively flat section, one of us [name suppressed] didn't notice a rabbit hole in time to avoid a heavy fall…but thanks to our leader, Helen Spinks, we navigated Mt. Meg safely and with all walkers present.  

Walk length: approx. 7kms.

Bev. Thornell.

​Wednesday 12th May 2021        MT MEG              S-3-4

Mt Meg is a gravelly, rocky conservation reserve near Thoona. The circuit walk begins near the car park and climbs to the summit following animal tracks and then descends along a fence line back to the car park. There are good views at the summit and wonderful rock formations.
Meet at 9.15 am.  Leave Benalla at 9.30 am

Leader: Helen Spinks      Mobile:  0488 013059

John Boehm
​Convenor

This walk was led by Bev Thornell who welcomed eight eager club members - one of whom was an hour early - he was so keen!

We arrived at Bright armed with raincoats and our colourful range of umbrellas only to put them back into the boot because the sun decided to come out from behind the clouds giving us a perfect day for walking.   We all enjoyed the change of weather as we were now kitted out with hats and sunscreen.

The first part of the walk was the Canyon (3 km). It was, as usual, picturesque with the Autumn leaves just starting to ’turn’. The Ovens River was clear and flowing well.   We admired the rock formations which looked stunning in the sunlight.  On returning to the car park, we stopped for an early lunch and walk around the shops.   Coffee and ice creams were the popular choices of the day before setting off on the Cherry Walk of 5 km.  A short way into the walk Bev kindly led us on a small detour so that we could admire the bitumen road before we turned onto the ‘real’ track to continue our journey.  During our walk we crossed some swing bridges.  John, however, had trouble containing his boyish behaviour and just couldn’t resist jumping on the bridges to upset the other walkers - there’s always one in a group!

Along this section, we admired the abundant birdlife and the carpets of beautiful autumn leaves with strong colours of purples and yellows.

Back at the car park, we enjoyed sharing our usual afternoon tea goodies before setting off for the drive home.  We were surprised at the number of families enjoying the area. There were children, dogs, bike riders, campers (bush walkers), and day-trippers all out and about in the Autumn weather.   

Thank you, Bev, for leading this lovely walk.
​
Eileen Skelton

A lovely Autumn day saw a group of 14 head out to walk the Delatite River on Wednesday 10th March.  The river was running fast, so it was great to see the water flowing over all the rocks and very surprising to see the size of some of the rocks.  With all bridges built over the river crossings, we didn’t get any wet feet. The site of Tree Ferns in a cluster was rewarding to see. These ferns must have been years old by the size of them. The track was very well maintained so was easy walking with covers of shade and sunspots. There were a few bits that got the heart working but not for long distances. Very lucky to see very old Gum trees.  It was great to welcome some new walkers to the group.

Thanks again to John for leading this walk.

Gwenda Tait


NEXT WALK - WEDNESDAY APRIL 14   2021  BRIGHT – AUTUMN LEAVES        S – 3 - 3

Two pleasant walks – the Canyon Walk and the Cherry Tree Walk.  If there have been early seasonal frosts, the Autumn leaves around Bright should be at their colourful best - to enjoy and photograph.

Meet at Barkly St tennis courts  8.00 am    Leave Benalla at 8.15 am

Leader Bev  Thornell   0447 193 244

John Boehm,
​Convenor

Seventeen walkers headed to Mt Dunn on Wednesday 10 February, and in so doing were able to escape the higher temperatures on the day compared to Benalla.   Temperatures were at least five degrees cooler and made for pleasant walking.  

The track started at Lake Catani's day visitor site and joined the Long Plain valley track before rising to the base of Mt Dunn.  Then it was a steep 250m climb to the top but not before climbing up several sections of a ladder to finally get a 360-degree view of the spectacular surroundings.    Wildflowers were still in abundance.  

Good to see quite a few walkers who had not walked for a while and one visitor.   The walk was 8 km.

WED 10   March 2021   DELATITE RIVER MIRIMBAH  S-3-3
An easy walk along the Delatite River starting at Mirimbah park, returning the same way.  
 
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts 8.45 am Depart 9.00 am
​
Leader: John Boehm    0428 254801  


John Boehm
Convenor​

Wednesday 10 February 2021     MT DUNN           S-3-3

The walk begins at the Lake Catani car park then on to the Long Plain track which will lead us to Mt Dunn.  Most of this walk is a gentle amble through Snow grass plains and Snow gum woodlands, before a quite steep climb to Mount Dunn’s rocky summit.  This is a 9 km walk.
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts 7.45 am; depart 8.00 am
Leader: John Boehm 0428 254801  

John Boehm

John  (foreground) sitting with Brian Harker on Enrolment Day at the Town Hall

The next mid-week walk is scheduled for 2021
 
WED 10 February 2021          MT DUNN          S-3-3
The walk begins at the Lake Catani car park then on to the Long Plain track which will lead us to Mt Dunn.   Most of this walk is a gentle amble through Snowgrass plains and Snow gum woodlands, before a quite steep climb to Mount Dunn’s rocky summit.   This is a 9 km walk.
Meet at Barkly St tennis courts  7.45 am; depart 8.00 am

Leader: John Boehm    0428 254801      
 
December Walk Report

Mid Week Walk    Mt Glenrowan   9th December 2020

Bev Thornell

Wednesday November 11th's Benalla Bushwalking Club mid-week bushwalk, led by John Boehm, was at Mt. Timbertop, near Sheepyard Flat. A steeply rising track, which challenged most of us, zigzagged through dense forest, followed by a short but difficult (for short-legged walkers!) rock scramble up to the Plateau, where we took a well-earned break for lunch.

The colourful Spring wildflowers increased in number as we ascended, much to the delight of keen photographers.

​Three different smart? phone apps registered three different distances walked. The consensus was 5.5 (approx.) Luckily, we avoided the predicted late storms, so were able to enjoy warm weather, but not the haze impairing panoramic views of the valley below. In spite of misgivings, the descent was less slippery and a lot quicker than the ascent: the sooner to tuck into our habitual afternoon tea, shared in the car park picnic ground.

​Wednesday 9th December 2020   MT GLENROWAN        S- 3 -3
​
The walk is on the ridge track starting from the Taminick Gap road and begins with a steepish climb up onto the ridge thereafter an easy walk to Mt Glenrowan to enjoy the view.   About 10 km.
Meet 9.15 am at the Tennis Courts Barkly St (behind Aldi)
Leave Benalla 9.30 am
Leader:    John Boehm    Mobile: 0428254801

John Boehm

Gwenda Tait was our capable leader on our Wednesday 14 October walk of 7.4km along the very scenic Plain Creek Track at Sawmill Settlement, on the road between Mansfield and Mt. Buller. Signboards pointed out items of historic interest along the way. The gently sloping track followed the burbling fern-fringed creek, through the tall forest and up to the waterfall viewing platform, where we marvelled at the stunning sight of large volumes of water tumbling down the rocky slope - a bonus after the wet season. We were able to listen to the Creek as we sat on damp logs for lunch. Afternoon tea in the Picnic Ground gave some of us a chance to cool our feet in the Delatite River. Bliss. Thank you so much Gwenda for a really lovely walk.     

Bev Thornell

Upcoming Walk - Wednesday 11 November, 2020           MT TIMBERTOP               S-4-3
The walk begins at the car park and follows a narrow path up to the summit.  There are spectacular views of the Victorian Alps and the Delatite Valley.
Meet  9.15 am Leave Benalla  -  9.30 am
Leader: Helen Spinks.     Phone 0488 013 059 ​

John Boehm

Midweek walks are up and running again, held under current restriction rules.   Let's get back on the track. Walks for October and November below.

WED 14 OCTOBER, 2020               CARTERS CREEK               S-3-3
An easy walk up from Carter’s Road, near Sawmill settlement and back down Plain Creek track.
Meet 8.30 \am at the Tennis Courts Barkly St (behind Aldi).   Leave 8.45 am. Alternatively meet at Mansfield Toilet block, once in Mansfield cnr Highett & High Street, at 9.30 am.
Leader:  Gwenda Tait:    57787242

WED 11 NOVEMBER, 2020           MT TIMBERTOP               S-4-3
The walk begins at the car park and follows a narrow path up to the summit.  There are spectacular views of the Victorian Alps and the Delatite Valley.
Meet 9.15 am Leave Benalla  -  9.30 am
Leader: Helen Spinks.     Phone 0488 013 059 


John Boehm

MT. MEG WALK               S-3-4
​Mt Meg is a gravely, rocky conservation reserve near Thoona. The circuit walk begins near the car park and climbs to the summit following animal tracks and then descends along a fence line back to the car park. There are good views at the summit and wonderful rock formations.
Meet           9.15am          Leave Benalla    9.30 am
Leader:       Helen Spinks      0488 013059

Please note – this activity will be rescheduled. 

John Boehm