Lerderderg Gorge

Mount Blackwood
This view looking north east across the Lerderderg State Park is taken from the site of the Mount Blackwood Fire Tower. Note that you cannot access the fire tower, however there are some great views to be had from the summit.

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The Lerderderg River
The Lerderderg River has many quiet pools along its length, which on a hot day provide a great place to cool down.

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The Tunnel Downstream
This shot, looking into a tunnel that miners carved into the hillside to divert the Lerderderg River, shows what extraordinary lengths the miners would go to find gold. Legend has it that no gold was found after the river had been worked.

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Ah Kow Hut Ruins
As you travel down the Lerderderg River you'll come across many historic mining sites. One of the best examples is the remains of the old Ah Kow Mine, which has the remains of a miners hut nearby. This place is also an ideal spot to stay overnight if you are doing the walk from Blackwood to Bacchus Marsh.

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The Tunnel Upstream
Two weeks before we field checked this area there had been a large downpour of rain. The river had risen to the level shown here, where the logs couldn't fit through the narrow tunnel opening. What remained was a 'bridge' of debris.

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Miners Hut
These hut remains are situated near The Tunnel, a short walk from O'Briens Crossing. Remember to leave these relics the way you find them so all can enjoy.

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The Otways

Hopetoun Falls
The Otways are renowned for their spectacular waterfalls. Hopetoun Falls is readily accessible for most people, with a short walk from the car park. There's also a lookout at the car park for those that can't make the walk.

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Sabine Falls
Sabine Falls is considered by some to be the most spectacular falls to visit in the Otways. The walk to the falls is along a difficult narrow path, that can be sloppy at times, but it is well worth the visit.

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Hattah-Kulkyne

Lake Mournpall
The views from the campsites at Hattah are spectacular, none better than at sunset when the clear skies provide remarkable colours.

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Emu Footprints
One of the impressive things about Hattah-Kulkyne National park is the abundance of wildlife. As dusk approaches kangaroos and emus are readily seen. These footprints were found in a dry lake bed in the middle of the park.

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Lake Hattah
The last time the Lakes system filled was when the Murray River flooded in 1994. By July 2002, there was still some water remaining in Lake Hattah, though very shallow. These lakes are home to an abundance of bird life, and as such are recognised by RAMSAR.

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Wombat State Forest

Tawny Frog Mouth
Another example of familiar wildlife.

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Kookaburras
The Wombat State Forest has plenty to offer the day visitor or overnight camper. Whilst the forest is home to the Powerful Owl, it also contains some more familiar bird-life.

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