U3A Ballarat Hikers

 U3A Hike 385 Hike Report by Deb Karmouche 🌧 Gathering in the Rain 14 hikers gathered in drizzly rain and drove to the starting point, an isolated picnic area with the river on one side and bush on the other. 🥾 River Loop and Forest Ascent The walk began with a loop along the river, returning to the start before crossing the river and gradually ascending into the forest, following the river’s course below. A highlight of this stretch was the forest’s rich soundscape—the river, frogs, birds, and the unique call of the black cockatoo. ☕ Morning Tea and Signage Morning tea was enjoyed at the mineral water pump. Signage there compared the composition of mineral, spring, and tap water. Another sign from the Australian Workers Union noted a pay dispute affecting the cleaning and maintenance of public facilities. 🌊 River Crossing Adventure After another loop, we reached the Werribee River, which required a crossing—an exciting moment for all. Andrew proudly showed off his fancy waterpr...

 U3A Hike No 384 map Hike Report by Don Moss 🌤 Setting Out On a mostly fine but cool morning, 14 happy hikers set off from The Garden of St Earth at Blackwood. We followed the Lerderderg track on the south side of the river, eventually looping back along its course. The Lerderderg River has carved a rugged 300m gorge through sandstone and slate as it flows southwards through the state park. 🪨 Historical Landscape The track was gently undulating, formed from old water races. Evidence of 19th-century mining was apparent along the way, reminding us that gold was first discovered in Blackwood in 1854. 🌿 Flora and Vegetation Although narrow and requiring single-file walking, conversation flowed easily. The walk was delightful, with great diversity in vegetation. Tree ferns mingled with eucalypts such as stringybark, box, messmate, and ironbark. Wildflowers were prolific, with hikers identifying orchids, billy-buttons, heath, grevilleas, and many other native plants. 🐾 Wildlife and ...

 U3A Hike No 383 🏞️ Mt Donna Buang Hike Report by Leona Ryan Date: 13th November 2025 Distance: Approx. 9 kms Leader: Gordon Talbot 🚗 Journey to the Starting Point What a pleasant surprise it was to see clumps and patches of snow remaining along the road as we wound our way, in five cars, up to Mt Donna Buang. Once cars were parked at the starting point and the car shuffle organised, we alighted, suitably attired, into crisp, sunny conditions. 🗼 Tower Views & Guidelines A short uphill incline loosened up the leg muscles and brought us to a very sturdy looking tower. From its 21‑metre top we absorbed panoramic views of the Yarra Valley and surrounding tree‑covered ranges. Gordon then gathered us together to deliver some guidelines, including how to negotiate variable tracks with hidden obstacles, and assuring us that no snake in its right mind would brave these conditions. And neither, we hoped, would any of those pesky, voracious leeches. ❄️ Snowy Descent Off we went, sli...