Scorpion Gully - Wombat State Forest (near Shepherds Flat) Circuit - 10.0 Kms

 U3A Hike No. 234


Hike Report by Leona

On a morning gently shrouded in fog and with the promise of a warm, still, sunny day to follow, a lucky 13 walkers converged at Kirks Reservoir to begin our journey to Scorpion Gully.

Along the way we reflected upon various adventures and outings experienced in the vibrant Daylesford Hepburn area. Passing through Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, a left turn alongside Cricket Willow, up a dusty road and we were at the walk start on the corner of Shepherds Flat - Werona Road.

Joyfully we headed off downhill, much preferred to getting out of the car and starting straight off uphill. But wait…I spoke too soon! Uphill we went, through trees and grassland, very peaceful with just the occasional birdsong and our chattering to break the silence of the bush. Having traversed Long Gully Creek, we arrived at Tenpenny Gully where we enjoyed our morning tea break, luckily unhindered by any scorpions.

By the time we reached the stone wall remnants of an old unnamed township, the increasing warmth had seen us peel off at least one layer of clothing. Onwards we went into Smith’s Gully where once stood a thriving pub. No drinks on tap now unless you have a taste for aloe juice. Here they were – large, grey, spikey clumps flourishing in the bush next to the remnant pub wall.

We were ever wary of the hidden mine shafts, particularly that large, rounded gaping shaft with accompanying loose quartz ready to trip us up! There were several side tracks and obstacles that could have led us astray, and nearly did, but that was definitely the fault of the un co-operative GPS service – absolutely not the expertise of a human nature.

Another fascinating remnant, this time a rammed earth chimney and foundations had us theorising on this unusual construction method. This surely wouldn’t have been an easy build!

Not long after, we were all clustered around an upturned, insignificant small rock…. with a very healthy, large scorpion ready to defend itself if prodded too enthusiastically.  Sticks, walking poles and cameras were activated. We were assured by Colin that they can be picked up if you know how. We declined, replaced the rock, and left the scorpion to recover from the encounter.

I am always fascinated by the many gullies on our walks, and on this occasion, in addition to Scorpion Gully, we walked or came close to Long Gully, Tenpenny Gully, New Zealand Gully, Smith’s Gully and Stringers Gully. A very picturesque view of Mt Franklin through tree trunks and cleared paddocks indicated that we were on the homeward stretch.

By this stage we had built up a healthy appetite and were ready for lunch which was enjoyed in the shade, once we reached our parked cars. Many thanks to Gordon for his reccie, Mark for his leadership, Andrew for keeping us safe and Jan and Geoff for taking on the associated technology.


Photos by Mark B























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