Baluk Willam Nature Conservation Reserve - Belgrave South

My visit on May 2 , 2017.

>>>> Baluk Willam Nature Conservation Reserve is a small park located in Belgrave South. Relatively unknown by the general population, this site is popular amongst botanists, particularly those with an interest in orchids. The orchids are prolific in spring, but are commonly also seen at other times of the year.

There are two main walks through the park - the Orchid Track and the longer Loop Track. The Orchid track begins near the small carpark on the corner of Courtneys Rd and Orchid Rd, and takes approximately 45 minutes return. This walk is up a slight hill on a gravel path, through several ecological vegetation classes. There is some interpretive signage, but the best thing to do is keep your eyes peeled along the sides of the paths for some of the best spotting of Victoria’s beautiful native flora.

Wildlife may also be seen!. There are birds aplenty in this reserve, and kangaroos (and introduced deer) may appear!

The Orchid Track ends at a large cleared fenced area on private property, at the edge of Mt Morton.

On this occasion, plenty of kangas were frolicking in the paddock, amongst the grazing farm animals! Sadly, the weather was cold and wet, with constant drizzle.

The Park may be reached from Courtney's Rd, either from Wellington Rd or from Mt Morton Rd.

Wombat Bend and Ruffey Trail - Templestowe

A visit on May 1, 2017.

Wombat Bend is a sanctuary for creative play, decorated with community art that will inspire and capture the imagination of people of all ages and all abilities. Children and people young at heart will love exploring Wombat Bend, with sensory play activities, accessible path networks, an ampitheatre and native forest walk. Wombat Bend’s highlights include a large mosaic titled ‘The Circle of Friends,’ running feet tiles and the maze panels. Once you have explored Wombat Bend be sure to build and decorate a cubby from bush materials in the nature play area (east of the playground).