R.Pepper - Trek 19 - Andersons Gardens
Date and time: Saturday 11th May starting at 9am
Description: Offering a driving challenge and some great views, this trek explores the more isolated areas of the historic Mt Disappointment State Forest. The route takes in sections of track here there are steep ascents and descents, and deep fords requiring low range work, as well as walking tracks and scenic places to stop for picnics.
This trek delves much deeper into Mount Disappointment State Forest than Trek 11 - Mt Disappointment, which will be run on Sunday 19 May.
Throughout the forest you will find mountain ash in the wetter parts, while messmate, grey, stringybark, peppermint, box and candlebark gums are in the drier parts, and manna gums can be seen mostly around the creeks.
In the south of the forests there are views across Sunday Creek Reservoir, part of Melbourne’s water catchment, whilst in the north there is a steep walking track to the viewing areas near the 50 m drop of Strath Creek Falls.
Weather: Melbourne region in May – could be anything so be prepared for cold and wet weather.
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. Minimum required would be two shackles and a snatch strap rated for your vehicle.
Trip Standard: Medium/Difficult - Some hills will be greasy after rain, most of the hills have spoon drains which will require high clearance and slow speed to cross. There is likely to be some slippery mud near water crossings.
Fuel: Full tank from Melbourne - Fuel is available in Wallan
Distance: Approx. distance of 210 km round trip from Melbourne - mix of high range and low range driving with several water crossings
Duration: 1 day
Convoy limit: 8 vehicles
Meeting arrangements: We plan to meet in front of Hogan’s Bar & Café (92 High St, Wallan VIC 3756) and depart at 9:00am sharp.
If you plan to get coffee beforehand then you will need to arrive a little earlier.
We will aim to finish about 5.00pm in Strath Creek – maybe earlier depending on the conditions.
Trip Leader: Cory Keating m: 0478 844 939
Trek Managers: Kenny Macleod, m: 0421 952 540 and Jo Thyer m: 0411 028 090
