Take a trek on the Nature Trail

OVER recent weeks Parks Victoria Contractors have completed works on the Woowookarung Regional Park Nature Trail.

The walking track from the Park’s lookout through to Katy Ryans Road is an initiative of the Friends of the Canadian Corridor and has received $78,000 worth of funding from the State Government’s Pick My Project community grants scheme.

An FOCC group christened the trail, heading off for their first official walk on the path last Sunday morning, 20 December, led by secretary Jeff Rootes.

“We have worked with the Wathaurong Land Council, and we have found the proper name for xanthorrhoea australis plants; baggup. We want to call the trail, Baggup Trail,” he said.

Signage along the Woowookarung Nature Trail is yet to be finished and installed.

Phytophthora, or cinnamon fungus, is present around Woowookarung and attacks grass trees. Parks Victoria have placed Phytophthora control stations across the Park where people can disinfect the soles of their shoes.

They are installing a new control station at the lookout, where walkers will access the Woowookarung Nature Trail.

“These stations are to remind people not to bring mud into the Park on the bottom of their walking shoes,” Mr Rootes said.

Those moving through the Park are encouraged to watch out for wildlife. Echidnas and koalas have recently been spotted throughout.

“The other day I found an echidna, a ‘spiky,’ down by the gorge having a swim in a big puddle. He got out of there and went to ground so quickly,” Mr Rootes laughed.

FOCC members would usually enjoy an informal, social gathering with refreshments after a long walk, but these activities are still on hold to ensure COVID safety.