Robert Pepper’s 4wd Treks close to Melbourne – Trek 16 – Amblers Lane (Bacchus Marsh – Blackwood) 

Description:   Treks 16 and 17 will be undertaken on Saturday 23/March and Sunday 24/March.  These treks can be done separately, however if you would like to do both treks and stay in the area on the Saturday night then there are plenty of accommodation options to be found in the Trentham and Daylesford areas.  There is also the Blackwood Mineral Springs Holiday Park which is about 550 meters from the Blackwood Hotel.

This Trek will start in Bacchus Marsh and travel on the bitumen to Wombat State Forrest.  The track follows onto Ractliffe Track which is narrow and requires high-clearance 4wds and is particularly challenging as there is a water crossing that involves steep climbs.  The trip winds itself between Lerderderg State Park & Wombat State Forest several times.  We plan to have lunch at the lovely O’Briens Crossing and then finishing the trip at the Blackwood Hotel.

Weather:  This time of year, we can expect it to be anything from quite warm to quite cool, so ensure you bring appropriate clothing and food.

Trip Standard: This trip is classified difficult.  Drivers must have completed the RRCV club training and have had some experience on difficult classified tracks.  Some tracks may have some significant mud obstacles after rain.

Equipment:  High clearance vehicles with low range 4WD capability.  Good all-terrain tyres with not less than 50% tread.  Vehicles must be UHF radio equipped (or one borrowed from the club).  Usual recovery gear must be carried.

Fuel:  Full tank ex Melbourne / fuel available in Bacchus Marsh Ballan, Daylesford

Distance:  Total – approx. 230km.  Trek 16 – total approx. 78km.  Melbourne to Bacchus Marsh – approx. 60kms.  Blackwood to Melbourne – approx. 90kms

Duration:  1 day

Convoy limit:  8 vehicles

Meeting arrangements:     We will depart at 9am from Bacchus Marsh from the front of Jimmy’s Fish Shop, 171 Main Street, Bacchus Marsh.  There is a place opposite called Angelo’s bakery where you can grab a coffee before we go.  We will finish about 4pm in Blackwood.

Trip Leader:  Gary Tinner 0414 742 701 gary.tinner@visaexecutive.com

Trek Manager:  Graeme Allen 0477 488 434 graeme.allen86@gmail.com