Linton Nuggety Gully Circuit - 13.5 Kms
U3A Hike No 112
Historical Notes, Map and gpx file download links after the photos.
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.
Next, we came to the Kelly Rd site of the memorial for the five Geelong West volunteers who died in the ferocious bushfires. Two tankers & crews had been trapped in the thick bush following an unexpected wind change, with all of one crew losing their lives. This has fortunately led to changes to safety operating procedures by CFA crews.
Our track took in the Linton cemetery with its variety of unique headstones including many well-kept Chinese headstones.
After much discussion about the difference between Bunya Pines and Monkey Puzzle trees, we returned via the old Linton Railway Station with its historic display boards.
Thanks to all for the outing on a cool clear Ballarat winter’s day.
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.
Next, we came to the Kelly Rd site of the memorial for the five Geelong West volunteers who died in the ferocious bushfires. Two tankers & crews had been trapped in the thick bush following an unexpected wind change, with all of one crew losing their lives. This has fortunately led to changes to safety operating procedures by CFA crews.
Our track took in the Linton cemetery with its variety of unique headstones including many well-kept Chinese headstones.
After much discussion about the difference between Bunya Pines and Monkey Puzzle trees, we returned via the old Linton Railway Station with its historic display boards.
Thanks to all for the outing on a cool clear Ballarat winter’s day.
Photos by Andrew, Gordon and Jane
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I would like to thank Chris for doing the notes which I had offered to write. And thank you to my companions who offered much needed support. I am fine now though rather tired.
ReplyDeleteRegards, Jane