379. Gardiners Creek - Blackburn to East Malvern 13km
U3A Hike No 379 Hike Report by Don Moss Gathering at Southern Cross Ten of us met at Southern Cross Station on a perfect spring day, ready to catch the Metro line to Blackburn. What initially sounded like a simple suburban walk — crossing multiple highways — turned out to be a delightful surprise that far exceeded expectations. A Personal Connection to Blackburn Blackburn, where I grew up, has managed to retain its leafy charm. The interconnected parks along Gardiners Creek remain a hidden gem, offering a green corridor through the suburbs. Setting Off We began our walk along Railway Road, turning south onto Blackburn Road — a name that reflects the straightforward naming conventions of the past! Along the way, we passed the church where I was (first) married — a nostalgic moment. Soon, we entered the park where the creek emerges from underground, having flowed from Blackburn Lake to the east. Nature in the Suburbs The sealed trail meandered through bushland parks filled with Box,...