We came from Bairnsdale and Paynesville to Howitt Park for a brisk stroll along the Mitchell River Walk. The cyclists had set off earlier, and fifteen of us gathered to explore, for most of us, an entirely unknown part of Bairnsdale.
We crossed a suspension bridge to the other side of the river, had a surprise meeting with Paul’s sister, spied a pair of yellow-tailed black cockatoos, and checked out the fishing platform that gave us more of a perspective on the river. The track took us to Lind Bridge which crossed the Mitchell again, and from there we walked along the south side to Picnic Point Reserve.
The track was well-maintained, lined with tall trees and some remaining beautiful old houses. Much of the Walk was also Bairnsdale’s Parkrun track. Farmlands looked pretty lush on the north side. As usual I spent more time talking than observing my surroundings, so the detail is a little vague.
Three of our number turned back, leaving us to complete the final couple of kilometres to Picnic Point, a high point beside the river, surrounded by park. We had a snack and chatted about the new website and its much-expanded functionality. Returning on this side led us back to Howitt Park around the edge of town, where a couple of our troops peeled off at the caravan park. A final meal together and we headed off home.
Many thanks for a most enjoyable and relaxed walk to Robyn, our leader, and Annie, Paul, Sue M, Gwen, Patsy, John, Michelle, Barbara, Jean, Val, Judy, Kate and Clive.
Marg Lynn