386. New Zealand Gully Loop 9.7km
U3A Hike No 386 Hike Report by Joan Brick ☀️ A Taste of Summer We arrived at our destination, in the Wombat State Forest, on what felt like our first real taste of summer. This area is steeped in history, known for the gold mining operations of the 1850s. Gordon gave us a brief overview of the region’s past and pointed out features to watch for—mine shafts, remnants of old water channels, dams, and stone fireplaces. 🌿 Walking the New Zealand Gully The first part of our adventure took us along the New Zealand Gully . It was peaceful and beautiful, with flowers and deep green moss-covered logs doing their best to soften the scars left by mining. Gordon drew our attention to a mining operation still active on a mining lease in the forest. We tread carefully, making sure not to set off any “bells and whistles”! 🍵 Morning Tea & Reflections We paused for morning tea, enjoying the quiet surroundings and each other’s company. Gordon reminded us—loudly and clearly—to watch our step, ...