Nerrina - White Swan Circuit - 13 Kms

 U3A Hike No. 159



Hike Report by Fiona

The U3A Hiking Group commenced this 13 km circuit walk in drizzling conditions from Devesons Lane Nerrina. Firstly we examined a few of the historic buildings that are still standing in the area known as ‘Little Bendigo’ during the Gold Rush days. During the boom era of 1880-90’s the area grew to accommodate 3000 residents. The Little Bendigo Primary school was opened in 1878. We passed the two historic churches nearby - Anglican (now a residence) and Wesleyan churches. Andrew related an interesting story of a local legend ‘Smokey Jimmy’ who evaded the authorities by hiding in the Anglican property.

We then headed south, crossed over the Freeway Bypass and walked through bushland adjacent to it before crossing the bridge again and descending onto the Yarrowee Trail. The Yarrowee Creek was amazingly full and running over the floodway in Brown Hill.  

After a small distance we turned off the track (just short of Ditchfield Road) and headed up in a northerly direction along the Goldfields Track. The forest vegetation included bright clumps of Pink and White Heath, as well as an early sighting of a Tall Hooded Orchid. It was muddy underfoot and care needed to be taken down the steep descents. 

We also passed various mineshafts indicating past mining activity in the area. Eventually we reached a very full Nuggety Dam.

Our walk then followed various fire tracks and local dirt roads with more favourable walking conditions. We crossed White Swan Road at "Fiveways" and continued further northward along Codes Forest Road. We eventually caught glimpses of the White Swan Reservoir to the East. We turned westward through the forest tracks to Glen Park Road which climbed upward through the pine forest and gave good views over the surrounding hillsides and pastures. We then walked southward along Alkera Road admiring the picturesque allotments in the area.

We completed the circuit back to Nerrina via Tanunda Street and Jindabyne Street. Shortly before arriving to our starting point we walked past a water valve and a pumping station associated with Ballarat’s mains water supply.

We enjoyed a cuppa and lunch together (socially distanced) on our return. 

Thanks to Andrew for an enjoyable hike together between lockdowns.

Photos by Mark B





















Comments

  1. Jane7 August 2021 at 17:20

    Thanks, Andrew, Fiona and Mark. It was a lovely walk.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jan7 August 2021 at 20:13

    Great job on the slideshow. I especially like the photos of White Swan Reservoir and historic buildings.
    And the dramatic music at the start!

    ReplyDelete

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