Canadian Circuit, City of Ballarat - 12 Kms

 U3A Hike No. 264




Hike Report by Joan

We started our hike in good spirits and cheer
And to our amazement Andrew did appear
With a wink of his eye and a jolly big smile
We heard of his adventures
While hiking mile after mile.

Yes, we had a good start to our day’s adventure with having Andrew back with us.  

Gordon gave us the background of our walk which focused on the area that included a Pine Plantation, remnants of gold mining in the area as well as the present footprint that mining is continuing to have in the area.  It didn’t take long before we left the city streets behind and delved into the pine plantation.  

Walking through this area is a bit eerie and yet peaceful.   Our first stop was the “cubby house” that has been here for years but continues to slowly deteriorate from the once vibrant place it use to be.  It  was a special feeling like we were so far away from the noise of the city until we were abruptly greeted by the loud roar of trucks associated with the mining operations located here.  Though there is a fence that completely surrounds the mine, it did not prevent us from seeing where the toxic waste products from the gold extraction process are stored.  

We continued along the fence and made a gallant effort having to battle blackberries and gorse until we finally reached Whitehorse Rd making our way down to the Yarrowee Creek.  We followed the track along the creek for a bit and then returned to the bush.  Along this track we may not have encountered toxic waste but we encountered numerous  examples of rubbish dumped by irresponsible members of the community which was upsetting for all of us. With the weather looking more inclement, we took up the suggestion to return to Andrew’s for early lunch as well as hear about his overseas travels.  

Despite the disappointing rubbishy nature of some of the places we visited along our hike, it ended on a good note with lunch, good company and live entertainment provided by Andrew singing and playing the ukelele . 

Thanks to Gordon for leading the walk and Andrew for his hospitality. 


Photos by Andrew 




















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