Loopy Loop Track, Castlemaine Diggings NHP Circuit - 12.6 Kms

 U3A Hike No. 214





Hike Report by Leona
What a cracker of a day this was, as 15 enthusiastic hikers set off from our parked cars on Porcupine Ridge Rd - Goldfield's Track intersection. 

From the day's beginning the weather offered mild temperatures, with fog clearing to brilliant sunshine, bright blue skies and no wind. Consigning wet weather gear and woolies to our backpacks, we traversed a section of the Goldfields Track with the words "Slippery When Wet" coming readily to mind. We deftly negotiated our way through an obstacle course of slippery clay and large water puddles. 

The first loop of the walk included an exploration of Mr Hunt's Two Chimneys Hut and Brown's Gully. Mr Hunt, apparently, owned the water races and sold water to the 1850's gold diggers. While examining the remnants of stonework we pondered the style of residence that might have adjoined the chimneys. Some delighted in throwing rocks into the extremely deep nearby mine shafts.

Upon reaching the picturesque Brown's Gully we paused for a second brekky/first morning tea. Taking his cue from the warm conditions, Gordon reminded us of the processes to follow in the case of snake bite. Not a talk you would hear back in England, mused Alan and Teena.
Through open woodlands and gullies, past water races we continued, examining Mr Hunt's chimney from his main hut. 

After right turns onto the loop track and then the Wewak Track (great name that) we were onto the second loop. Sebastopol Gully provided ample sitting spots for morning tea, or was it brunch? Rested and refueled, across gullies and up and down hills we went. Stops were made to admire emerging wild flowers including common white heath, tetratheca, hardenbergia, bush pea, hibbertia, an unusual grevillia and the ubiquitous wattles.

Gordon and Andrew's snake bite advice now seemed very timely as a reasonably sized tiger snake, completely unaware of his impact, slithered down the hill very close to some nervous hikers. Following sections of Porcupine Ridge Road, Wewak and Loop Tracks we reached our waiting cars and now more lightly attired, enjoyed a leisurely lunch, soaking in the warmth and sunshine. 
Thank you Gordon for yet another gorgeous walk on a brilliant Spring day.

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