WALK REPORT APRIL 24

After catching the train from Ballarat to Southern Cross, 13 walkers had a very enjoyable and interesting day along sections of the Yarra River less travelled, finishing up at the Mission to Seafarers at Docklands. We began by heading down King St where we saw some beautiful old bluestone buildings and ornate lamps, including the York Butter Factory which dates back to the 1850’s.

Once at the river, we walked towards Birrarung Marr, stopping to admire Indigenous art at Enterprize Park which commemorates where the first settlers arrived on August 30 1835 on the Enterprize. Next was the Sandridge Bridge which was relaunched in 2006 as a pedestrian bridge after originally transporting new arrivals from Station Pier to Flinders St Station. Passing Federation Square and Princes Bridge, we arrived at Birrarung Maar which features a range of native flora and sculpted terraces. Later in the walk we could hear the Federation Bells from the other side of the river.

Lunch was had at the Janet Lady Clarke rotunda, built in 1913, and from there we walked along the boatsheds, along Southbank and past the Polly Woodside. Our last stop was the Mission to Seafarers which is a beautiful heritage listed building, dating from 1917. Inside was fascinating; we explored the Norla Dome, the garden and courtyard and the chapel. The chapel has a stained glass memorial window commemorating seafarers lost at sea, one of which referenced Ballarat and the Lucas girls.

The day had warmed up considerably by the time we reached Docklands so we headed back to the train about 2.30pm.

We had a really interesting day, with Shirley and Mark adding commentary at various points along the walk. We’re very grateful to them for the effort they put into the day, and for adding so much value to what we were seeing.

Apologies that the photos are in reverse chronological order!