Ted Errey Nature Circuit


Ted Errey Nature Circuit – Brisbane Ranges – 4th October

By Marianne Kennedy

 
Our hike started at the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area and meandered along gravel tracks through lovely natural bush. There were two sections where huge boulders served as stepping stones across the floor of the gorge which is dry at the present time. Eventually a steep rocky ascent provided wonderful views of the surrounding countryside, of mountains and brilliant canola crops in the distance. We were fortunate at this stage to observe a pair of Wedge Tail Eagles circling majestically in the thermals just above the tree line of the gorge.
We had been hoping to see wildflowers however they were very scarce due to the lack of significant rainfall over recent months. At the highest vantage point the views were amazing enabling us to see far into the distance. Here, as well as along the way, we were able to witness the regeneration process in effect after the bushfires in 2006. The undergrowth is quite dense while the trees that perished in the fire stand bare and tall above and give a vast contrast to the landscape. The vegetation is varied with an abundance of Grass Trees in some areas which have grown tall spikes as a result of being affected by the bush fire.
Morning tea was enjoyed in a lovely bush setting while sitting on logs created by fallen trees after which the walk continued on and was really interesting and varied. The hiking tracks consisted of sections of slate, red iron based rock and solid packed dirt. Being within a gorge we were faced with steep ascents and steep rocky descents as well as reasonably level bush tracks.
We were able to take advantage of view points along the way to admire the spectacular vistas in the far distance. At one point we were standing on the eastern edge of the Brisbane Ranges and looking towards Corio Bay, Mt Martha and the Bellarine Peninsula. The views were fantastic!
After an enjoyable lunch sitting at picnic tables we completed the circuit by retracing our steps back to the starting point.
The weather was perfect for hiking with moments when the sun broke through the clouds and gave a promise of the warmer days ahead.

It was a great hike and we all really enjoyed the day along with very pleasant company and a lovely afternoon tea at the Mill Cafe in Ballan on the way home.

Thanks Andrew.


 Photo's by Mark Bevelander
































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