U3A Ballarat Hikers

U3A Hike No 113 Hike Report by Martin Russell As we assembled at Fishers IGA (Miners Rest) the  morning that  greeted us was cold and overcast with a  considerable  layer of fog.   Blue Group were the first to depart , heading off  into the fog towards Mt  Beckworth  and our starting point - Cork Oaks camp ground.   Once organised, we set off  for  the Scenic Reserve  located at the top of the Mount,  where we would find fabulous views of the countryside and  visit  the famous “Lollipop Tree”.  But first we  had  to navigate our way up the slight incline of Mt  Beckworth  itself .  Did I say slight .  This was  trek that was  not for the faint hearted .  N aturally  we   found  it was necessary to  regularly  pause ,  to take in the magnificent  views and  scenery out towards  Waubra .   Many  commented ...

U3A Hike No 112 Historical Notes, Map and gpx file download links after the photos. Hike Report by Chris Gordon led a group of 10 walkers from the Linton township, through the goldfields of Nuggety Gully, to the NW of town. We began along the Rail Trail but soon were among ridges and gullies. Many shafts, small mullock heaps, water races and an old mine adit remain as evidence of a busy mining era. We learned of the precarious existence of the miners. Mortal hazards included misdirected shovels and runaway winch buckets. We passed through an extensive area of forest now showing regrowth following recent controlled burning. At around the halfway mark Jane began to feel unwell, and it became clear that she would not be able to carry on. Fortunately, this happened not far from a road with houses, the first for many kilometres.  Andrew was able to call on the assistance of Sean and Kathy, some kind and helpful local homeowners who stepped in and took care of everything. ...