We set off from the Wirilda Environmental Park, adjacent to the Tyers Pumping station. The track follows beside the course of the meandering Tyers River through Tyers Regional Park; sometimes close to water level and at other times well above the river.
The track eventually leads to Moondarra Dam. which is 14km, however our walk extended 5km to the old pipe bridge, then retraced our steps back.
We saw remnants of the old Traralgon water supply pipeline. Pipes were originally wooden with metal rings.
The walk began at an easy pace and to the sound of the water pouring over the weir with a generous diversity of birdsong. Stunning scenery of the Tyers River is a feature, as is the sense of balancing on the edge as you follow the ridge line above the riverbank and witness noticeable changes in the vegetation.
The first 2km up to pipeline track are called Ollie’s track. It is named in honour of Ollie Thompson, a dedicated local field naturalist whose constant participation and commitment goes way back to when the Park was an idea, with a steering committee seeking support. Along with his wife Bon, he was widely acknowledged for his generosity of spirit and a long-term friend of the Park.
We had a lovely stop for morning tea on the rocks beside the river and had lunch back at the picnic area at the starting point. The walk was very picturesque.
Thanks to our fearless leader Helen guiding us on this lovely walk. Thanks also to Pat who stayed behind to meet the Korumburra group who became disorientated and a little late on arrival.
Participants included:
Ann, Jenny, Roz, Chris, Sue M, Jean, Catherine, Gayle, Bev, Jacque, Helen, Sue F, Andrew, Robert, Judy, David, Peta, Pilli, Barbara, Graham, Pat, Maree, Elizabeth
Author: Christine