U3A Ballarat Hikers

 U3A Hike No 388 Hike Report by Jan Herperger 🌄 Welcome and First Walk of 2026 Happy New Year to everyone in our hiking group, and a warm welcome to Craig, our new member. Our first walk for 2026 was a gentle and engaging outing, beginning at the Dementia Friendly Forest & Sensory Trail. Twenty‑three smiling hikers set off, eager for exercise and conversation. 🥾 Crossing to the Rifle Range After a short section of the Dementia Trail, we headed cross‑country toward the old rifle range. Along the way we spotted at least five gold puddling sites—surprisingly unnoticed by the group until now. A minor medical moment involving barbed wire and a hiker’s hand reminded us that nurses never truly retire. 🎯 Exploring the Rifle Range We paused to inspect the remains of the target mechanisms and sheds. Unfortunately, graffiti now covers many of the structures, which was disappointing to see. 🌿 Gravel Tracks and Mining History Beyond the rifle range the track became gravelly, with gently...