Outer Circle Rail Trail

U3A Hike No 67

By Anne Ottrey Five hardy souls fronted up for this 14 km walk in Melbourne, despite threats of rain and low temperatures. Weatherwise, it wasn’t too bad – two light showers, some sunny breaks and layers removed as we hit the first incline.

The Outer Circle railway was built in 1891 as a steam-era suburban railway line. The engineer in charge was John (later Sir John) Monash. At its longest stage, it ran from Fairfield station to Oakleigh station in the south. As a passenger service, it only operated for a few years, but sections were used on and off for freight services. Part of it is still retained as the Alamein line.

The Outer Circle Anniversary Trail, a combined walking and cycle path, was new to most of us. We joined it at East Camberwell, walking northwards through the former stations of Shenley, Deepdene, East Kew and Willsmere. Historical signs and photos along the way explained the history of the area, and showed us how open and undeveloped the area had been at the time of the railway’s operation (not many passengers to be seen!).

Today, the trail follows ribbons of urban parkland, sometimes through tree-lined cuttings, at other times through landscaped parks. We peered into interesting backyards and found a convenient mandarin tree with ripe fruit, growing over the trail fence.

We crossed under the Eastern Freeway and joined the Yarra River Trail, following it until road works on the new Chandler Highway bridge forced us up on to Yarra Boulevard. We were rewarded with scenic views of the Melbourne skyline. We had lunch and coffee at the Boathouse Restaurant at Fairfield Park, then followed Merri Creek to Rushall Station. The second half of this walk was very different to the earlier rail trail, as we followed the river or creek surrounded by native vegetation and birdlife.

Did you know that Merri Creek near Rushall station is believed to be the likely location for the signing of Batman’s Treaty with a group of Wurundjeri elders in 1835? Thanks to Gordon for organising this very attractive and interesting walk!

Photo's by Mark Bevelander