DAYLESFORD RAMBLE (AUGUST '98)

It was a beautiful pre-spring, spring day when we set off to explore the spas and creeks around Bryce’s Flat in the Daylesford area. For some of us the scenic tour started much earlier - ensuring a later than expected start to the walk. Despite this, we were able to grab some food in Daylesford before starting the walk at Tipperary Springs.

Being blessed with two leaders, we followed Neil and Richard in opposite directions - up hills, across fields, along creek beds, past springs, around the Blowhole and some would say, up the garden path - covering a total of 17 kms in 5½ hours.

Those of us in Richard’s group had lunch by a lovely running creek with a spectacular mine shaft cut into the cliff behind us. Shortly afterwards we came upon Henderson Springs - most notable for the heavy park bench which had been carried down by local titans for visitors. It was just after passing the idyllic farm, straight from the set of Babe, that we met up with Neil’s group who, fresh after an extended lunch, were bemused by our lack of vim, vigour, vitality and even conversation. They soon found out why we were such a subdued mob.

The last half of the walk was comparatively easy with the highlights being another mine shaft, the Blowhole and a long rest at walks end. We all got back safely with great memories of a fun day thanks to our leaders Neil and Richard.