421. Creswick Forest Loop 11km

 U3A Hike No 421



Hike Report by Geoff

Rain was predicted for the morning but when our 19 hikers set out from Sawpit Road, near the old Creswick nursery, it was fine but cloudy. 


Today’s hike led us first, along the La Gerche Track, where we soon came upon the timber sculpture of John La Gerche. There Gordon reminded us of the great work La Gerche did between 1882 and 1897 when he was the Crown Lands Bailiff and Forester. During that time he set about restoring remnant forest, after large tracts had been illegally logged.  He also established significant plantations of many species of conifers and oaks which we were able to appreciate as we hiked on. 


We continued via the atmospheric Oak Gully, out of the valley, up Brackenbury Hill. Morning tea was enjoyed at the Brackenbury Lookout, where we looked over a somewhat misty Scottish landscape.


Break completed, we then hiked down to the side of St George’s Lake. As we neared the lake, we came to a point where a decision had to be made which would see us either walking through the old Creswick Koala Park or shortening the walk by continuing around St George’s Lake. Although the weather was looking more threatening at this point, our intrepid band determined we should continue with the full walk as planned. Our decision was vindicated as soon after, the rain stopped and the sun came out.  

We experienced sunny periods for the latter part of the walk back into the Creswick, walking through the redeveloped Hammond Park, now featuring an attractively landscaped  bicycle track. On, through the School of Forestry where we could appreciate the attractive historic buildings. 


Soon after we returned to Sawpit Road and the cars, where we could enjoy our lunch in the sun.


11.2 Km covered. Thank you to Gordon for leading another very enjoyable hike.


Photos by Alan


















LINKS


INTERACTIVE MAP


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THIS HIKE IN 2022





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