Latest walk report.

Walk Report July 11.

A lucky 13 assembled by the rotunda at the start of the Dementia Trail, to explore the 10,000  Step Trail Walk. This circuit is still a work in progress and, when completed, will connect various features of the Woowookarung Regional Park. These will include the Dementia Trail, Lookout, Grass Tree Nature Trail and the Ampitheatre. 

Before setting off, Chris gave us a talk on these developments and the effect the invasive Cinnamon Fungus is having on the flora of the area, particularly the Grasstrees.  Despite the howling gale, we sallied forth into the bush and were welcomed by the sight of the native, common heath, white, pink and dark pink flowers, brightening up the forest. Signs of the gold rush were evident with shafts and debris beside the track.

We then entered the Grasstree Nature Trail where the effect of the Cinnamon Fungus was obvious. The introduced Phytophthora cinnamomi, is a soil-borne water mould that produces an infection which causes "dieback", or "root rot", and can spread rapidly, especially in damp conditions. The fungus was identified in Indonesia, on Cinnamon trees. Bushwalkers can spread it by allowing moist soil and plant material to stick to footwear, hence the boot baths we have encountered on various walks.

 

Despite the buffeting wind, we enjoyed the stunning views to the west, before traversing the area known as the Ampitheatre.  After a welcome banana break at the Rest Spot at the Recreation Rd. end of the Bunny Trail, we made our way back to the cars via Penny Leaf Trail.

 

Thank you Chris for a very informative, interesting and enjoyable walk and Tim for his excellent whipship.

 

Helen Mc. 

 

The following information, was provided by Chris and Jeff from Friends of Canadian Corridor.

 

In 2017 a 10000 step trail was proposed by the FoCC in a submission to the Woowookarung Regional Parks Master Plan consultation. The proposed 10000-step trail was to link the Lookout, Amphitheatre and a possible picnic ground.

The Woowookarung Regional Parks Strategic Directions Plan 2018 adopted the request and described the trail as: Central circuit (The 10,000 Steps). This circuit also forms the 10,000 Steps circuit, which is proposed to connect many of the exciting and unique features of the park.