Robert Pepper’s 4WD treks close to Melbourne - Trek 5 -Yea to Narbethong

Description:  This is the longest trek in the Robert Pepper book with plenty to see and do along the way.

We will begin the trek in Yea leaving from the Police Station and head off the main road to visit the 200-metre-long Cheviot Tunnel.  The tunnel was built between 1887 and 1889 for the Tallarook to Mansfield Rail Line, which operated until 1970.  We will then continue north to Molesworth before turning east and then south along Black Range Road to traverse Black Range State Forest.

An interesting view can be had around SEC (State Electricity Commission) Track — a hint to what the views are of is in the track name.  Here you can get up close and personal with giant electricity pylons and admire the long-range view from the firebreak, we will stop here for morning tea.

Lunch will be a little further along the trek in the Murrindindi Scenic Reserve which encompasses the Murrindindi River and has a multitude of campsites and picnic areas.  At the southern end of the reserve are the Murrindindi Cascades which are accessed via a well-maintained walking path.  The cascades can also be seen through the forest from the vehicle track.

The final section of the trek, before reaching Narbethong, passes through commercial forest plantations.  There is no public access on side roads but we will pass through the plantations via the main road and end the trek at the Black Spur Inn.

Weather: It is Autumn and likely to be cool and possibly wet.  Bring appropriate clothing and footwear.

Equipment:  Vehicles need to have low range 4WD capability with good all-terrain tyres and UHF radio equipped (or one borrowed from the club).  Usual recovery gear should be carried. 

Trip Standard: Easy.  This trek is comprised of well-formed dirt roads, though be aware that some can be narrow and occasionally unexpectedly slippery when wet.  Beware of large branches on the road which can flick up and cause damage.

Fuel:  a full tank ex Melbourne, fuel available in Yea

Food:  Please bring food and drink for morning tea and lunch

Distance:  Trek 5 - Approx distance from Yea to Narbethong  is 85Km of mainly high range driving.

Duration: 1 day

Convoy limit: 10 vehicles

Meeting arrangements:  We plan to meet in the main street of Yea outside the Police Station at 4 High Street and depart at 9.00am sharp.  If you plan to get coffee beforehand then you will need to arrive a little earlier.  There are a couple of cafes in High Street.  We will aim to finish about 4.00pm in Narbethong

Trip Leaders: Chris and Frances Pearson 0407 922 522 / 0433 113 382

Trek Manager : Graeme Carter 0400 195 932