Jeeralang Junction - Fosters Gully Nature Trail
This 2.5km walk is in one of a handful of protected areas - a small but precious remnant of the rich forests that once covered the Strzrelecki Ranges and the Latrobe Valley.
Situated 16km south of Morwell and reached via Churchill or Yinnar, head along the Monash Way then take the Yinnar South turn-off (heading east) onto Jumbuk Rd. Travel 5km and look for the (easy to miss) Morwell National Park sign on your right at the Kerry Rd turn off. You'll find tables, a gas BBQ and public toilets at the picnic area along with highly informative Parks Victoria signage that details the various features of interest. This is well worth a read before you start the walk to learn about the range of plants and animals you're likely to see.
Two walks start from this point, the 2.5km Fosters Gully Nature Trail (yellow on the map below) and the 3.9km Stringybark Ridge Track (green on the map below).
In the wetter forest, Grey (Eucalyptus punctata) and Blue Gums (Eucalyptus globulus) form the upper canopy, with Pittosporum, Hazel Pomaderris (Pomaderris aspera), Blanket-leaf (Bedfordia arborescens) and other trees of medium height. Lower-growing plants such as Treeferns, creepers and ground plants such as ferns and mosses growing in the heavy shade of the upper canopy. Messmate Stringybark (Eucalyptus obliqua) is the most common tall tree on the higher drier slopes.
Wildlife abounds, with echidnas, kangaroos, possums, wallabies and wombats often spotted disappearing into the bush. You may also disturb a skink, goanna or other reptile on your travels. Over 43 species of orchids, some of which are quite rare, have been identified in the dry Eucalypt woodlands as well as in the ferny gullies along the creekline.
At the halfway point, Lyndons' Clearing is an ideal place for a break to take in the forest and to stop for a drink and a bite to eat. Wedge-tailed Eagles are often seen overhead, with occasional sightings of the Peregrine Falcon. Many small bush birds frequent this area. The Clearing is named after Mrs Ellen Lyndon of Leongatha, who previously lived on a farm near here. Her studies of the plant and animal life of this forest established its significance, and together with the Latrobe Valley Field Naturalists Club was instrumental in having the Park proclaimed in 1967. The track then leads gradually uphill and into the more open forest before arriving back at the car park and main picnic area.
One of the principal reasons for declaring this a protected reserve was to preserve the Butterfly Orchid (Sarcochilus australis, originally known as Gunnia australis). Sometimes called Gunn's Orchid in recognition of its discoverer Ronald Campbell Gunn, this orchid is a relic of the ages when jungles covered Southern Australia; it survives now only in a few dense gullies.
This walk is also one place where you're likely to spot a koala relaxing in the tree branches, so remember to look up!
Walk Summary
Grade 3: Moderate, with some undulations Distance: 2.3km return, 1hr.
Starting at the Kerry Road carpark, this wide track meanders along the cool, shaded creek flat to Lyndons Clearing, an historic log loading site. From Lyndon's Clearing, the track narrows and ascends into the dry Messmate forest, completing the scenic circuit back to the carpark. This walk offers visitors to the Park a diverse and immersive experience in the natural and historical features of the area.
Map of Route
Interactive Map
Points of Interest
1. Life can be a picnic
Surrounded by Mountain Grey Gums, enjoy the well-kept picnic facilities in this delightful Park. There are three unshaded tables and BBQ. Camping is not permitted. Just after you start the walk, you will come to the toilets on the left.
2. Home in the hollow
Birds such as Rosellas and mammals (including the Brush-tailed Possum) make their nests in the hollows.
3. Bountiful birdlife
A Fantail is just one of many bird species you'll possibly spot, such as Honey-eaters, Eastern Spinebills and White-throated Tree-creepers.
4. Take a seat
Spend a little time on one of the many seats you'll find along the track and you should see and hear some of the Park's rich wildlife.
5. A wealth of orchids
Home to over 43 species of native orchids, such as sun orchids, the flowers are simply superb.
6. Land of the Lyrebird
You have now entered the habitat of the superb Lyrebird. The male is renowned for its varied and powerful song - including the mimicry of other bird songs.
7. The walking track
A rich canopy of tall trees provides shade, and the track is well-maintained so you don't need to worry about having to clamber over logs on your walk.
8. A diverse forest
There aren't many stands of remnant forest remaining in the region, but here you will come across a diverse mix that includes beautiful old eucalypts.
9. Spot the koala
The well-loved koala is common in this section of the track, and can be seen taking a nap in the tree branches during the day.
Access for Dogs:
Dogs are not permitted.
Review:
A pleasant walk through a range of different habitats. The initial part of the walk is more dense and shady while the later part is more open bushland. Part way through the walk there is a short branch to Lyndoms Clearing where there is a picnic table. The route is well sign-posted and it would be hard to get lost.
We did hear a few wallabies in the bush, a lot of crimson rosellas and we did see a lyrebird. Stop and listen to the bird calls along the route.
Photos:
Location
25 Kerry Road, Jeeralang Junction 3840 View Map
Web Links
→ Fosters Gully Nature Trail - Morwell N.P. (Walking Maps)
→ www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/morwell-national-park
