WALK REPORT AUGUST 8

12 members braved the icy wind at Buninyong for the drive to the You Yangs. The further we went, the warmer it became, so it was in still, sunny conditions and a balmy 15 degrees, that we began our walk down the track towards the “Bundjil” eagle sculpture, on the valley floor.

There are spectacular views towards Melbourne and Geelong, with the granite rocks of the mountains providingan interesting physical and visual experience. The bush here is extremely dry and Maria explained it is the driest area in southern Victoria below the ranges.

The invasive Bone seed plant is everywhere. This green shrub, with its bright yellow flowers, is a native of southern Africa and was introduced to mitigate erosion in the Park. Like many, well intended, scientific “solutions”, this has proved regrettable. Efforts to eradicate the scourge continue and are evident in some areas.There were also several native wattles, adding their burst of yellow to the scene.

We had our ”banana break”, sitting on the rocks of the “Bundjil” sculpture. Whilst the extent of the project can be observed at ground level – a wingspan of 100m and 1500 tonnes of granite, the best perspective is from Flinders Peak. Unveiled in 2006, it was created as a tribute to the Creator Spirit Bundjil and the Wadawurrung Aboriginal people, by artist, Andrew Rogers, as part of his “Rhythm of Life” series.

To understand the scope of this project, login to Rhythms of Life Land Art Project 2017 on YouTube.

After viewing the information board, we set off on our return journey up to the car park where we had lunch.When the wind came up, the decision was made to head back to Buninyong, which was just as cold and blustery as when we left, though a hot cuppa was most welcome.

Many thanks to Maria and Marlene for another most enjoyable and informative walk in the You Yangs.

 

Helen Mc.