Liam McNally
From Werribee Gorge, to Wombat Forest, Brisbane Ranges and everything in between, Moorabool Shire is an area blessed by natural beauty, and as peak-summer is cooling into autumn it’s the perfect time of year to get out and explore your beautiful backyard.
For inspiration on how to do this most effectively, Star Weekly turned to local expert Tamara Karner who has worked for Parks Victoria for 20 years, and is currently the acting chief ranger for the Geelong area, which covers Moorabool.
Ms Karner said this summer new trends have been populating the parks – people reconnecting with nature post-COVID by taking mental health walks and more dog-walkers and young people seeking out unique areas for the perfect Instagram shot.
For a personal favourite, Ms Karner said the Lerderderg State Park is a stand-out with free campsite that are great for those new to camping.
“Definitely the Lerderderg River is a calling card. I grew up in the western suburbs of Melbourne so my parents used to load us up and drive us up to Mackenzie Flat so we could go for a swim… and definitely the gorge walk out to Grahams Dam, which is only an hours walk and reasonably easy,” she said.
“Unfortunately while other kids were watching Video Hits of a Saturday morning, I was being dragged around to do bush walks and picnics.”
Ms Karner recommended people looking for a “hidden gem” check out the Brisbane Ranges camp sites.
“It’s not as busy as somewhere like the You Yangs or Lerderderg, it’s a little bit further out of Bacchus Marsh but it’s very quiet, lots of beautiful nature. In springtime there’s orchids and lots of wildflowers,” she said.
For hikers seeking a challenge, Ms Karner recommends Werribee Gorge’s circuit walk.
“Really make sure you know where you’re going, have your map, have water, and don’t start off too late in the afternoon.”
Ms Karner said exploring Moorabool’s natural landscape is a “fabulous way to break up your weekend”.
“If you are going to those places, tread lightly, take your rubbish away with you…
“Also thinking about the cultural heritage of an area is really important and having that in mind when you’re walking around,” she said.
“Don’t undervalue your local spaces.”
