On the first day, the group embarked on a 12 km walk from Ocean Grove to Barwon Heads and back. The journey began at The Dunes café, leading over the bridge to Barwon Heads and up to the Barwon Heads bluff. The trail, primarily flat with some stairs to and from the beach and headlands, provided a mix of sandy and gravel tracks. A break at a café for morning tea allowed the group to wait out a rain shower before continuing along the river, crossing the bridge, and ascending to the lookout. The effort was rewarded with stunning views across the bay to Torquay.
The weather was a typical spring mix of cool, windy, sunny, and sleeting conditions. Despite the unpredictable elements, the walk was a fun and enjoyable experience, offering a chance for friends, both old and new, to catch up and share the adventure.
After a day spent trekking along the picturesque coastline from Ocean Grove to Barwon Heads and back, the group’s adventure continued into the evening with a special gathering arranged by Judy. As dusk approached, participants made their way to the rooftop of the Grand Vue Hotel—a grand, historic establishment renowned for its sweeping 360-degree views.
Despite the crisp temperatures, spirits remained high as everyone assembled atop the hotel. With glasses in hand, the group admired the breathtaking sunset. The convivial atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for friends, both old and new, to mingle and reflect on the day’s exploits. Once again, fortune smiled on the party, as the weather held steady just long enough for everyone to enjoy the spectacle and camaraderie to the fullest.
Author Day1: Maree
Day 2 St Leonards to Edwards Point.
What better way to spend a Thursday than surrounded by nature, good company, and a smattering of offbeat banter? Our merry band of 20 walkers assembled at St Leonards for what was billed as a “delightful 8km stroll.” The path? Flat. The mood? Buoyant. The distance? Well… more on that later.
We kicked off with the traditional “count-off” – a ritual that’s supposed to reassure us we’ve got everyone. Alas, it became clear that memory isn’t what it used to be. Numbers were called out hesitantly, some were guessed, and others simply shrugged. David, however, redeemed the group with a resounding, confident: “Number 5!” Good on you, David.
Led capably by Judy O’Connell, we set off into a bushland corridor shaded by tea-tree, saltbush, and wattle. The dense canopy not only sheltered us from the elements but also provided a haven for local birdlife. As we strolled along, the bush slowly gave way to open expanses of saltmarsh and dunes, offering us wide vistas and a changing soundtrack of birdsong and sea breeze.
The path, although “very level,” stretched out a little longer than expected. That promised 8km magically transformed into 11km (and yes, we are keeping count next time, Judy!). Still, we barely noticed the distance thanks to the engaging company and, of course, the ever-entertaining trail conversations. Topics ranged wildly – grandchildren, true crime, pets, missing spouses (temporarily, we hope), politics, real estate, health grumbles, and general forgetfulness.
Speaking of which – one walker, who shall remain unnamed (for now), thoughtfully donated her son’s much-loved jacket to the beach. We do hope it found a good home.
But the prize for Most Unusual Trail Chat goes to… Bev and Joy. Their discussion of “Sex on Sundays” and “No Pants Wednesdays” left several of us blinking in confusion and the rest in stitches. Explanations were requested – and remain pending.
As we approached Edwards Point, the forest gave way to sweeping coastal views. Swan Bay sparkled before us, framed by the silhouettes of Queenscliff, Arthur’s Seat, and even the distant Melbourne skyline. The saltmarsh shimmered in hues of green and gold, dotted with spiky tussocks and the occasional birdwatcher’s delight. Among the avian highlights: Pacific Gulls, Red-capped Plovers, Australian Pied Oystercatchers, and a very graceful White-faced Heron.
The return journey along the beach added a dash of wildness to the day – seaweed underfoot, wind in our hair, and the unexpected treasure of several unbroken sea urchin shells, marvelled at but wisely left in place.
We finished with tired feet and full hearts – perhaps a little more sun-kissed (and footsore) than we’d planned, but thoroughly pleased with a day well spent in great company and spectacular surrounds.
A wonderful walk, great company, and just enough mischief to keep things interesting.
Author Day 2: Ian Mayer
Day 3 Queenscliff to Point Lonsdale and return.
After a lovely dinner last night at Oakdene Winery, nineteen souls were ready for the trek from Queenscliff to Point Lonsdale this morning. The weather was mild and clear, but the wind was still with us. The walk started through the scrub above the beach and then down onto the beach before reverting onto the track into Point Lonsdale, and what a lovely village it is. After a short break we continued onto the lighthouse for spectacular views across to Point Nepean and over Bass Straight. At the lighthouse, steps down to the beach took you to Buckley’s Cave. Back to Point Lonsdale for a leisurely coffee break then back to Queenscliff. Guess who had to have a swim before heading back to Queenscliff. Most of the walk back was through the scrub above the beach which was very pleasant. All in all an easy 11.9kms.
Many thanks to Judy and David for organising the base camp.
Author Day 3: John S
Participants:
John, Patsy, Ian, Sue Mayer, Les, Heather, Sue Marriot, Jenny, Gayle, Ed, Wendy, Jay Jay, Val, Joy, Katrina, Maree, Nikki, Judy, David and Bev.