Old railway dam in Wychitella Nature Conservation Reserve
(K Stockwell)There are lots of reserves and National Parks in northern Victoria and southern NSW. Many sites and references are limited to either NSW or Victoria, something which can be very frustrating when visiting this border area. An attempt has been made to cover all but the smaller reserves.
Click on one of the listed reserves or scroll down the alphabetical list.
Major bushland areas in the area include the Ramsar-listed Barmah-Millewa and Perricoota-Gunbower forests, Whipstick-Kamarooka Forest, Rushworth area forests, the Warby Range and Terrick Terrick National Park.
There are scores of small reserves not listed here. No attempt has been made to provide detailed information about the huge national parks which exist to the north-west of the region, in 'Mallee' country - Hattah Lakes, the Little Desert, Wyperfeld, Big Desert Wilderness, Annuello Fauna Reserve (which protects the endangered Lowan ~ Mallee Fowl).
This page has been updated to account for changes resulting from the Environment Conservation Council's investigation of box-ironbark forests and woodlands. More recently, two new national parks in southern NSW have been added to this page. Further changes may be necessary if and when any of the recommendations made by VEAC regarding red gum forests are implemented.
The discussion paper and draft proposals paper released by VEAC as part of its River Red Gum Investigation contain a wealth of information and are worth studying.
Additional and official information on many of these reserves can be obtained from the Parks Victoria web site. Maps of some of these reserves, including State Game Reserves, can be downloaded from the DSE and Parks Victoria web sites in pdf form.
Parks Victoria has produced a large folded sheet guide to Victoria's Box-Ironbark Parks and Reserves.
It has been difficult to obtain information about the small reserves in southern (Riverina) NSW and many may not be listed.
A cross-border map showing reserves in the Barmah-Millewa Forest was to be produced by the Barmah-Millewa Forum but the Forum has been wound up and the map may not now be forthcoming. However, a cross-border forest map is apparently on sale at the Barmah store.
Bendigo Field Naturalist Club has prepared a number of publications on the region's plants and animals.
More information about Victoria's box-ironbark country is included in a book by Chris Tzaros, Wildlife of the Box-Ironbark forests
Bushland reserves
of
northern Victoria and Southern RiverinaPage 1 of 2: Parks with names starting 'A' to 'O'
This section outlines, in alphabetical order, most of the national parks, natural conservation reserves and other reserves in northern Victoria and the central Murray valley of NSW. Many of the state forests shown on NSW Forests 'Central Murray Valley Forests (Western Forestry Region)' map are listed ~ copies of this map are usually available at the Mathoura RTC (information centre). Well worth having, this 1:250,000 map also shows many of the northern Victorian forests and reserves.
As more and more reserves have been included, this file became too large for one page. This page covers reserves from A to O inclusive. A second page cover reserves with names starting with P through to Z. There are separate pages for Barmah-Millewa Forest, Greater Bendigo National Park, Gunbower-Perricoota Forest and Terrick Terrick National Park.
Most of the bushland reserves in the area have been badly affected by over 10 years of drought. As a result of the Victorian Environment Assessment Council (VEAC) investigation of River Red Gum Forests in northern Victoria, several new parks and reserves are likely to be gazetted in 2008.
VEAC recommendations are outlined in blue. Numbers in brackets after a reserve name refer to VEAC recommendations (G=Natural Features Reserve).
Click on link for notes about parks with names commencing A through to O. Many other reserves are described on this page but do not yet have a link, so scroll down!
Appin State forest
Ararat Regional Park
Bael Bael State Forest
Baillieu's (Richardson's) Lagoon
Bama Forest,
Banyula Forest
Barham Lake
Barmah State Park, Moira Forest, Millewa Forest and Gulpa Island
Barren Box Wetland
Beattie Depression Bushland Area
Beechworth
Benarca State Forest
Bendigo Regional Park
Benjeroop-Dartagook NCR (proposed)
Broken-Boosey State Park
Bullatale (Tuppal) Flora Reserv,
Cantwell (Millewa) Reserve
Cussen Park, Tatura
Crosbie State Forest
Echuca Regional Park
Garners Swamp, Mooroopna South
Goschen Reserve
Greater Bendigo National Park (incorporating Whipstick and Kamarooka State Parks)
Gunbower Island
Heathcote-Graytown National Park
Hird Swamp
Island Sanctuary, Deniliquin
Kanyapella Basin
Kerang lakes
Kinnairds Wetlands
Kooyoora State Park
Lake Murphy
Lake Tutchewop Wildlife Reserve
Leaghur State Park
Murphy Swamp (do not confuse with Lake Murphy)
Murrindindi Scenic Reserve
Murrumbidgee State Forests
O'Keeffe Rail Trail
One Eye State Forest
Oolambeyan National ParkNotes on the above parks follow on this page.
Parks with names commencing P through to Z.
In some of the listings below, topographic map names/numbers have been given; in some cases VicRoads map references are given. CFA regional map books are also useful map resources. Some indigenous grassland paddocks presently in the process of being purchased by DSE and several small reserves are not included here.
Appin State Forest ~ a small box- red gum forest south-west of Kerang between Wandella Creek and the Loddon River.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to be included in Leaghur-Koorangie National Park.Ararat Regional Park ~ a 3,671ha reserve to the west of the region covered by this site.
Bael Bael State Forest ~ a wetland west of Lake Charm town and west of Kangaroo Lake and Lake Cullen.
Baillieu's Lagoon
Also known as Richardson's Lagoon, this 191 hectare reserve is located between Echuca and Torrumbarry, north-east of the Murray Valley Highway. Access is via Baillieu Road which loops around the lagoon in an half circle. When the lagoon contains water, it is a wonderful birding location. Brolgas and waders are often here. Around the lake, the bushland supports some of the less common bush birds, including Diamond Firetail, Powerful Owl, Barking Owl, Bush Stone Curlew, Grey-crowned Babbler, Red-browed Finch, Zebra Finch and Brown Tree-creeper. VicRoads Map 31 A2.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to be reserved as 'Baillieu Lagoon Wildlife Area'.
Baillieu's (Richardson's) Lagoon, Torrumbarry (D Ong)Balmattum NCR ~ a small reserve west-south-west of Violet Town.
Bama (Barmah) State Forest (NSW)
Bama State forest is located in NSW alongside the Murray River downstream of Barmah Town. It is generally regarded as part of the greater Barmah-Millewa Forest. Much of this forest consists of Box which has been logged in the past. Therefore, many of the trees have multiple stems from a stump. Adjoining private property is used for 'paint ball' (war games). Some adjoining farmers have allowed bushland to regenerate on part of their properties. Formerly part of the ancient Lake Kanyapella, this is a natural flood retarding basin. If floodwaters are blocked from entering this forest Echuca-Moama could be flooded. Barmah Forest Road passes through this forest. Access from Old Barmah Road. Topographic map: Moama 7825-N 1:50,000 (CMA of NSW). Do not confuse with Victoria's Barmah Forest, Barmah State Park or Barham.Banyula Forest
This red gum forest is located downstream of the iron bridge in Echuca. At the request of Echuca Landcare Group, Deakin University has prepared a Management Plan for this small red gum wetland. Management responsibility is shared by several authorities and there is some undeveloped private bushland. There is a clear need for a ranger and a lead manager to maintain this forest and prevent its misuse. VicRoads Map 266 H3 shows part of this forest; the bushland extends to the edge of the Murray.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to be reserved, along with the Port of Echuca, as 'Echuca Historic and Cultural Features Reserve'.Barangalite State Forest
See Werai State Forest.Barham Lake
Barham lake is a wetland reserve on the edge of the township of Barham (as distinct from Barmah) on the NSW side of the Murray. VicRoads Map 211 R8. There is a camping area, toilets and lawns between Barham Lake and the Murray River. There is an indigenous plant garden nearby. Nearby waste water ponds provide a haven for many native birds, including crakes and ducks.Barmah State Park, Barmah Forest, Moira Forest, Millewa Forest and Gulpa Island
The Barmah-Millewa Forest ~ including Barmah State Park, Barmah State Forest, Gulpa Island (SF558), Millewa Ste Forest (SF398), Moira Lake Fauna Reserve (FR98), Moira Forest (SF 576), Toupna Creek Flora Reserve (FR119) and Bama Forest (SF584)~ is the largest red gum wetland in Australia. It is a Ramsar wetland and a major tourist attraction. Fishing, camping, boating, birding and bike riding are popular recreational activities. The forestry industry employs many locals.
The Murray near Barmah Lake (K Stockwell)There is a separate page on this important forest. Click here to enter my page on Barmah-Millewa.
Topographic maps: Strathmerton 7926-S and Mathoura 7826-S 1:50,000 (CMA of NSW) and Moira Lakes 7826-2-2 1:25,000 (VicMap).
VEAC's draft proposal is for virtually all of Barmah Forest (Victoria) to be upgraded to national park.
Barratta Creek State Forest
See Werai State Forest.Barren Box Wetland
Barren Box is a 3,200ha ephemeral wetland fed by runoff from Mirrool Creek near Leeton (to the north of the region covered), Barren Box Wetland is being rehabilitated. Supported by Murrumbidgee Irrigation, the project won the 1996 Sydney Engineering Excellence Award (Environment and Heritage).Beattie Depression Bushland Area
This fenced linear floodway lies between MacDonald Road and Looker Road between Echuca and Kanyapella. 398 hectares is proposed as a bushland reserve. Some are campaigning for a bushland link to the Kanyapella Forest which lies 1km further east.
Topographic Map: Echuca East 7825-1-3 1:25,000.Beechworth Regional Park
This bushland area is located to the east of the region covered by this site. It affords excellent bushwalking opportunities, walking tracks linking several points of historical and scenic interest.. Provided there have been good winter rains, the spring wildflower display is usually great.Benarca State Forest
Located within a large meander of the Murray downstream of Moama, this reserve (SF751) features a large degraded riverside sandhill, part of which has been fenced by Moama Landcare Group, State Forestry NSW and Greening Australia. The fenced exclosure features a number of Sandalwood Trees, Callitris Pine and wattles. But most of the reserve is a red gum forest. Owing to drought, recovery has been slow but is progressing. A colony of babblers lives on the sandhill. There is a camping site, popular with boaters, alongside a sandy beach. The forest has been severely overgrazed. Access from Moama is via Perricoota Road and McKindlay Road (turnoff Perricoota Road west of McKindlay's Indigenous Plant Nursery). Reference map: Moama 7825-N 1:50,000 (Central Mapping Authority of New South Wales).Bendigo Regional Park
This box-ironbark bushland park of about 8,740ha on the outskirts of Bendigo has several sections. One of the largest sections lies between Eaglehawk and the northern (Whipstick) section of the Greater Bendigo National Park. It comprises the former Eaglehawk Regional Park, Diamond Hill Historic Reserve and parts of the Marong, Mandurang and Wellsford State Forests as well as a number of smaller bushland reserves. See also Wellsford Forest and Mount Sugarloaf NCR. The wildflower display during Spring may be terrific following wet years. The area is renowned for its wattles and bush birds.Berambong State Forest
Berambong State Forest (SF205) comprises two red gum forests alongside the Edward River several kilometres downstream of Moulamein. Access from a dirt track which runs north off Moulamein-Swan Hill Road west of Pike Pike Lane.Benjeroop-Dartagook NCR (proposed, D22)
Lying between Kerang and Murrabit, this proposed 1,179 hectare reserve, with frontages to Barr Ceek and the Loddon River, features Riverine Chenopod Woodland (with several endangered and rare species) and Lignum and provides habitat for a number of endangered fish species. Benjeroop Landcare Group has fenced a roadside near the Benjeroop Hall to draw attention to the endangered Grey-crowned Babbler which resides in that vicinity.Benwell State Forest
This red gum forest is located somewhere near Cohuna. (Information is requested by the webmeister: email stocky at mcmedia dot com. au)
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to remain a State Forest, logging and camping permitted.Binya State Forest ~ a Callitris (native pine) woodland forest south of Cocoparra National Park, north-east of Griffith, which is highly regarded by birders.
Birdlip Reserve
Located to the north-east of the region 10km south-east of The Rock on Mangoplah Road, this White Box woodland has many native grasses and orchids. It is managed by the Mangoplah Landcare Group.Black Swamp Wildlife (State Game) Reserve
There are two Black Swamps north of Shepparton:
Black Swamp (Black Dog Creek), and
Black Swamp (Nine Mile Creek). Black Swamp (Nine Mile Creek) is north-east of Wunghu and was supplied with environmental water in May 2008. It is popular with shooters during the duck season.There is also a wetland on Gunbower Island called Black Swamp and it also received environmental water in May 2008. Because it was dry for a lengthy period, the wetland is now covered in young Red Gum saplings.
Black Swamp, Gunbower Island, June 2008 (K Stockwell)Boort NCR (proposed, D16)
A 43 hectare area north-west of Bort with Broombush Mallee, Plains Woodland and Pine Buloke Woodland.Booroorban State Forest
Situated between Deniliquin and Hay, to the east of the Booroorban Hotel, this seldom-visited forest (SF370) features a sandhill on which a wide variety of uncommon plants grow. The southern section is part of the Burra Burroon Swamp. There is an access road from the Cobb Highway just south of Booroorban Hotel.Boweya Bushland Reserve
This reserve is located along the St James-Boweya Road in the vicinity of Warby Range State Park.
Boxwood NCR ~ a small bushland reserve near Boxwood, between Dookie and Devenish.
Britta's Reserve
Located alongside Billabong Creek 5km east of Walbundrie on the Culcairn Road to the north-east of the region, this reserve provides habitat for Bush Stone Curlew and, in winter, Swift Parrot.Broken-Boosey State Park ~ The Environment Conservation Council recommended a linear (worm-shaped) State Park along the Broken and Boosey Creeks. There was some opposition to this recommendation but much of the vegetation along the creeks is to be conserved and part is now a State Park. The vegetation along these creeks is the only remaining substantial occurrence of indigenous vegetation on Victoria's northern plains. Parks Victoria manages this reserve from its Nathalia office. Apart from the State Park, reserves include Youarang NCR, Nathalia NCR and Numurkah NCR.
Bryce Blair Reserve
Bryce Blair Reserve is a roadside strip of Bowman's Road Whorouly near the intersection of Paddy Gully Road. The roadside features old Red Box, Stringybark and Blakely's Red Gum. Lots of birds are usually observed here. Look for Owlet Nightjar, Rufous Whistler, Turquoise Parrot, King Parrot, Eastern Yellow Robin, Restless Flycatcher and Brown Tree-creeper. VicRoads map 35 B9.Buckrabanyule NCR (proposed, D13) ~ a 40ha area north of Wychitella. Plains Woodland with Buloke. The area has been badly infested with Wheel Cactus but locals are working hard (weekly half-day work bees) to control this pest.
Bullatale (Tuppal) Flora Reserve
Located alongside The Edward (River) south of Deniliquin and north of Gulpa Island, this flora reserve (SF189) can be accessed in dry weather via a dirt track off Lower River Road. Refer to 1:50,000 topographic map Deniliquin (CMA NSW)Burrowa-Pine Mountain National Park
Located in north-east Victoria outside the area covered by this site, this park contains some waterfalls, a number of walking tracks and pleasant scenery.Campaspe River Reserve(proposed, G107)
A 632 hectare linear park is proposed alongside the Campaspe River south of Echuca.Campbells Island State Forest ~ this forest (SF615) straddles the Little Murray River north-west of Barham, north-west of the larger Perricoota-Koondrook-Gunbower Forest. The wetland is called Guttrum Forest on the Victorian side of the Murray. See CFA (Vic) Region 20 Rural Directory Map 192 grid reference 360 590. See Gunbower-Koondrook-Perricoota Forest page.
Canegrass Swamp ~ a small indigenous grassland reserve off Baxter Road, west of Echuca.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to become a separate block of Terrick Terrick National Park.Cannie NCR (proposed, D10) ~ a 16ha area of Buloke with vulnerable Umbrella Wattle north of Charlton and west of Cohuna.
Cantwell -Whinfield Roads reserve (proposed Millewa NCR, D42)
See Millewa NCR.Casey Weir Reserve
This is a wetland east of Youanmite and south of Youanmite NCR. When the wetland contains water, Brolgas and Baillon's Crake have been observed here. Flame Robins visit over winter. Brown Tree-creepers are resident. Unfortunately, part of the wetland was used as a rubbish dump and the ground is still covered with broken bottles, metal objects and other junk. That no obvious effort has been made to remove old surface rubbish and undertake revegetation works reflects badly on authorities. The weir has fallen into disrepair. 36 degrees 09 minutes south; 145 degrees 40 minutes east. VicRoads Map 33 D4 (not shown on this map).Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park
Gold was once mined in the Castlemaine area. This 7,445ha park is designed to protect the indigenous vegetation and some mineral springs whilst also attracting heritage tourists. The reserve is only 100 metres in depth so that underground mining could occur at some stage in the future. DSE claim that this is Australia's first 'national heritage park'.Cemetery Forest Wildlife (State Game) Reserve
Located near Kerang, this reserve often affords good birding opportunities.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to become a section of Kerang Regional Park.Chiltern-Mt. Pilot National Park
This 21,943ha national park, located to the east of the region covered by this site, was meant to provide protected habitat for the most in tact box-ironbark fauna assemblage in Victoria. Much of the Mt Pilot block was burnt early in 2003 and the fire was so hot that it will take many years for the reserve to recover. The blocks near Chiltern appear to have escaped damage. Excellent touring and birding notes are available from the Chiltern Information Centre. There is a good caravan park in Chiltern, alongside Lake Anderson. Camping is no longer permitted in the park. The White Box walk is a signposted walking circuit from Honeyeater Dam (formerly called Cyanide Dam). This walk should satisfy bird observers. Bird observers might consider visiting Bartley's Paddock, Chiltern Valley Number One Reservoir and the Magenta Mine.
Cobram Regional Park ~ a 511 hectare red gum wetland located alongside the Murray River near Cobram. There are some good camp sites and sandy beaches alongside the Murray River.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to become a section of 'Murray River Park'. Camping is to be permitted.Cocoparra National Park
Rocky escarpments are a feature of this reserve 25km north-east of Griffith. The Cocoparra Range is covered in Mugga Ironbark, Black Cypress Pine, Dwyer's Mallee Gum, Spearwood, heath and native grasses. White Cypress Pine, Grey Box and Blakely's Red Gum grow in deep valley soils on creek flats. There is a camping area on Woolshed Flat which is often used as an overnight stop by travellers (e.g. by some travelling between Adelaide and Sydney or between Melbourne and Brisbane). In good seasons, many bush birds can be observed and Turquoise Parrots are sometimes seen in sheltered gullies. The Binya State Forest lies immediately south and is also ideal for good birding and bush walking.
Corop Wildlife Area (G100)
This wetland near the township of Corop covers 12 hectares.Crosbie Nature Conservation Reserve
Located between Heathcote and Elmore on the western side of the Northern Highway (VicRoads Map 45 C6), Crosbie Forest is a 2060 ha dry sclerophyll forest. I understood that the reserve covers 1,265 ha. Most of the trees are Grey Box. It provides habitat for several threatened species,e.g. Ausfelds Wattle, Regent Honeyeater, Grey-crowned Babbler and, in winter, Swift Parrot. Topographic map: Ladys Pass 7824-3-1 1:25,000 and Toolleen 7824-4-2 1:25,000 (VicMap).Cuba State Forest ~ see Murrumbidgee State Forests
Cullen Lake Wildlife Area (G85)
Located near Kerang, this 749 hectare reserve is often open to shooters during duck season. When it contains water, it often supports a wide variety of water birds including endangered species. Best access is probably from Lake Charm-Quambatook Road. Motorists are advised not to drive close to the water's edge lest they become bogged. CFA Region 20 Map 191 510 520; VicRoads Map 20 E4.
Cutwell State Forest
This red gum wetland is located in Victoria on the opposite side of the Murray to Campbell Island State Forest, between Koondrook and Murrabit.Cussen Park, Tatura
Tatura locals have developed a park of indigenous plants around a lake fed by town runoff. The area was previously strewn with rubbish. It is now a Mecca to bird observers who often flock here when less common birds such as Freckled Duck are sometimes reported. Spotless and Spotless Crake are often observed along with waders and water birds. VicRoads Map 270 F3 ~ but not labelled!
Spotted Crake: sometimes observed at Cussen Park (D Ong)Dahwilly TSR ~ an area of bushland, part of a travelling stock route, near the intersection of Moulamein to Dahwilly Road with the Cobb Highway north-west of Deniliquin, highly-regarded by ornithologists.
Dartagook Wildlife Reserve ~ 746 hectares of box-red gum forest and lignum swamp at the junction of the Loddon River and Sheepwash Creek.
Dalyenong Nature Conservation Reserve
Located west of Bealiba, this 1015 hectare reserve contains an area of large, old Grey Box and Yellow Gum trees with hollows. There are areas of White Ironbark. In places, Allocasuarina is the dominant tree. Much of the reserve has a grassy understorey with Flame Heath, Dianella and Hibbertia. This reserve provides habitat for for several endangered species, including Swift Parrot, Barking Owl, Powerful Owl, Hooded Robin, Bush Stone Curlew, Tree Goanna, Fat-tailed Dunnart, Little Whip Snake and Woodland Blind Snake. Yellow Robins can usually be seen, e.g. along Centre Track. A creek borders one side of the reserve but cannot be assessed as it is on fenced private land. The reserve has been heavily logged in the past and, in places, tree stumps detract from the wilderness effect. Access it via Stuart Mill-Emu Road or Archdale Road. For groups, the corner of Burge Road and Archdale Road is a good meeting point. VicRoads Map 42, H6. Map: Redbank North 7524-2-N 1:25,000 (VicMap)
Deep Lead Nature Conservation Reserve
Located to the west of the area covered by this web site, this 1823 hectare reserve near Stawell contains a diverse array of vegetation types within a reasonably confined area. The spring orchid display can be very good.
Deniliquin State Forest
This red gum wetland (SF397) is located alongside the Edward River on the south-eastern side of Deniliquin. See also Island Sanctuary, Deniliquin.Doctors Swamp ~ Located west of Murchison, this wetland received an environmental water allocation in May 2008. Managed by Parks Victoria.
Dohertys Plain (Rochester West) Flora Reserve
This is a tiny native pine reserve, 10 hectares in size, west of (but not alongside) the Northern Higheway (B75).Dookie bushland reserves
There are several small reserves near Dookie, including Boxwood NCR, Yabba South NCR and Wattville NCR. Dookie Agricultural College's bushland reserve, at the foot of Mt Major, features mature White Box which, when in flower, provides habitat for the Swift Parrot ~ access is via the Ring Road but permission to enter is required from the College.Duck Lake South NCR (proposed, D20)
A 116 hectare saline wetland north-west of Kerang. At times, the muddy edges are ideal for waders. The northern section of Duck Lake will remain open for shooting during 'Duck Season'.Dunoon Lagoon State Forest ~ see Murrumbidgee State Forests
Echuca Regional Park
Note: The original wooden Stewarts Bridge has now been replaced by a new one-lane structure open to all traffic.
Echuca Regional Park (K Stockwell)
Echuca Regional Park (563 hectares) is a series of riverside reserves near Echuca. Located upstream of Echuca along the Murray River, a large block is near Echuca Village, (access from Bangarang Road i.e. Echuca-Nathalia Road). An area of sandhill and billabongs, accessible from Simmie Road, is a good birding area. VicRoads Map 31 F3.
The park features River Red Gum, Cherry Ballart, Black Box, Lignum, Silver Wattle, Black Box and a number of other interesting plants. It is an ideal spot for birding and bush camping. Unfortunately, however, some campers have removed timber rather than their rubbish, and sizeable areas are dotted with tree stumps. Despite this, the reserve is worth visiting, particularly in Spring and on hot summer evenings. Kangaroos and emus are often sighted.
The fifty-yard strip between the sign shown above (alongside Echuca-Nathalia Road) and Stewarts Bridge is covered in wildflowers during the Spring, with a carpet of native tall blue bells. Upstream of Stewarts Bridge, the Murray has low banks because it is only a few thousand years old. Downstream of Stewarts Bridge the Murray flows in the course of the old Goulburn River and the banks are several metres high. The photo is taken upstream of Stewarts Bridge.
Murray River upstream of Echuca (K Stockwell)Kiln Loop Track runs alongside the Murray from just north of Cape Horn Vineyard to Galaway Track, which meets Stewarts Bridge (Echuca-Nathalia) Road near the 12km peg on Stewarts Bridge Road; it can be followed by motorists and bush walkers and gives access to many good camping sites.
Here are some track notes on a 15km walk in the park.
Drive from Echuca via Bangerang Road and, where the bitumen ends, turn left onto Stewarts Bridge (Echuca-Nathalia) Road. If prior permission has been obtained from the vineyard owners, leave some cars at Cape Horn Vineyard. Otherwise, leave cars on public land alongside cape Horn Track. All walkers need to be conveyed four per vehicle toward Barmah. Shortly beyond 12km from Stewarts Bridge, take a dirt track to the right for a few hundred metres and leave remaining cars out of sight from the road.
0km. Walk back along this track or overland to Stewarts Bridge Road, cross this road and cut across to Kiln Track.
1.4km Turnoff to Galaway Track. You can take a minor left track and then walk cross country to the north-west (using a compass) until the riverside Kiln Loop Track is reached
If you keep to Galaway Track rather than walking overland, turn left onto Kiln Loop Track (3km)
4.5km Tree with cross
5.8km Clearing and camp area
6.7km Red Gum; maze of tracks; the minor tracks lead to the Murray River,
7.6km Trees with large white painted circles; ignore Kalkunda Track and remain on Kiln Loop Track
8.2km 1744 sign on tree
8.8km Track to river with cliff bank across river.
9.8km Another track goes to the right
12.3km Echuca-Nathalia Road ~ walk parallel to river 13km Shackells Folly Bridge ~ If the creek is dry, to save time and distance, cross the creek prior to the bridge and follow Cape Horn Track back to Cape Horn Vineyard.
15km Cape Horn Vineyard ~ enter through riverside gate
15.4km Afternoon Tea; some cars need to return drivers to cars parked in forest near the 12km post.Topographic maps: Barmah 2825-1-11:25,000 and Moama 7825-1-4 !:25,000 (VicMap). Note: do not purchase the NSW version of the Moama map as (unless there is a later version to mine) it only details the NSW side of the Murray River!
See also Torrumbarry Area Reserves and Wills Bend.
Everton Natural Features Reserve
Located 2km north of Everton, this lovely reserve is all but bounded on one side by the Wangaratta to Bright rail trail. At one corner of the reserve, the trail forks, with one fork going to Beechworth and other to Bright. The reserve features some old Red Box trees and Blakely's Red Gum, with an rich understorey which includes Grevillea alpina, Calytrix, Dianella and various species of wattle.Walkers should love the trails in this reserve. A suggested walk starts where the rail trail forks and parallels the rail trail past Everton station (toilets). Keep turning right at each track junction, uphill alongside a regenerating field with lots of Grevillea alpina, uphill past a vineyard and right at the track intersection. Follow this track back to the start. Birds usually observed in this reserve include Turquoise Parrot, King Parrot, Crimson Rosella, Jacky Winter, Peaceful Dove, Grey Shrike Thrush, Golden Whistler, Rufous Whistler, White-throated Tree-creeper and Crested Shrike-tit.
Federation Botanic Reserve, Barham
This is an indigenous plant garden located to the east of Barham Lake alongside East Barham Road. A wide variety of locally native plants are displayed. Note that the numbers of the plants on the spreadsheets which can be obtained from inside the garden shed do not always match the numbers at the base of the plants.Fivebough Wetlands ~ an outstanding Ramsar-listed wetland in Leeton to the north-east of the region
Flannery Wildlife Reserve (proposed NCR, D31)
51 hectares of lignum and box forest (many of the trees are dead) have been reserved south of Cohuna, immediately downstream of the confluence Pyramid Creek (which connects Kow Swamp to the Murray River) and Bullock Creek. The reserve is about 4km south-east of the proposed Rowland NCR. Access is difficult. CFA Region 20 Rural Directory, Map 216, 460 227.Fryers Ridge Nature Conservation Reserve ~ 2,149 ha south-east of Castlemaine, to the south of the region covered.
Galore Hill
15km north of Lockhart on the Narrandera Road, this hill supports a wide variety of native grasses and wildflowers. Contact Friends of Galore (02) 6920 5683.Gannawarra Red Gum Swamp NCR (proposed, D29)
A 148 hectare block currently known as Red Gum Swamp Wildlife Reserve.Garners Swamp, Mooroopna South ~ a wetland managed by DSE. It is unlikely that any environmental water allocation can be delivered to this wetland. CFA map 292 515655.
Gaynor Swamp State Game Reserve
452 hectare wildlife reserve on the south-eastern side of Lake Cooper (near Elmore). Duck hunting has been allowed at times. This wetland fills from Cornella Creek overflows and backup water from Lake Cooper (which has been dry for some years). Brolgas were often observed here. Managed by Parks Victoria. CFA map 289 0-50550.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to be reserved as 'Gaynor Swamp Wildlife Area'.Gemmill Swamp Wildlife Reserve
~ a wetland area with some Yellow Box at the edge of Echuca-Mooroopna Road in Mooroopna. There is a walking track around the swamp and locals have prepared a brochure outlining points of interest. It is regarded as a good birding area. It was burnt by wildfire during 2006.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to be a section of the proposed Lower Goulburn River National Park.Gladfield NCR (proposed, D26)
A 28 hectare block of Crown land with good quality Chernopod Grassland around a Lignum Wetland. Contains rare Spiny Lignum.Glasson's Grassland
Glassons is a Trust for Nature indigenous grassland reserve south-east of Terricks, alongside Aird Road Rosylnmead. Other than on 'open days', please do not enter this property without permission from the Trust and/or its manager Eris O'Brien. During the recent drought, there has been a reduction in weed infesation and a healthy regrowth of some indigenous grasses and bushes. The Striated Sun-moth has been recorded twice in Victoria: the second sighting was in January 2007 in this reserve. This is one of several indigenous grasslands in the region owned by the Trust, others including Korrak Korrak, Kinypanial and Naringalingalook. The property immediately to the east has been purchased by DSE and is likely to become an outlier of Terrick Terrick National Park.Gobarup Nature Conservation Reserve
Located south-west of Rushworth, this reserve covers 300ha.Gooram Falls
This small bushland reserve lies off Euroa-Mansfield Road near Galls Gap Road. There are toilets downstream of the falls. This reserve is a good birding spot. There is a small camping area at nearby Polly McQuinns.Goschen Bushland Reserve
Located in a sea of cropped farmland between Ultima and Lake Boga (VicRoads Map 13 J9), this small, isolated bushland reserve is very popular with bird observers as many inland birds not often seen further south or east are often observed here. It is often visited by birders in conjunction to a visit to Tresco West Bushland Reserve.Apart from mallee eucalypts, this delightful reserve contains Berrigan or Long-leaf Emu-bush (Eremophila longifolia), a rough barked small tree that is a vital food source for nomadic honeyeaters such as Black Honeyeater and Pied Honeyeater. The range and variety of birds tends to fluctuate from year to year, depending on levels of rain and the availability of flowering plants, such as eucalypts and Emu-bush. The bird list for this small reserve is extensive. Species recorded here include Budgerigar, Cockatiel, Blue Bonnet, Mulga Parrot, Variegated Fairy-wren, Yellow-throated Miner, a wide variety of honeyeaters (including Singing, Yellow-plumed, Striped, White-fronted, Pied and Black), Orange Chat, Hooded Robin, Red-capped Robin, Dusky Woodswallow, Zebra Finch and Pied Butcherbird.
Yellow-throated Miner: often observed at Goschen (D Ong)There is an old hall, a tennis court and toilets in the reserve. There is some remnant bushland in an adjoining fenced telecommunications block. The surrounding area has been cleared for farming.
Goulburn River State Forest
Located alongside the Goulburn River, this reserve includes Loch Garry and forests downstream to the Murray River.
VEAC recommends that this area be part of the proposed Lower Goulburn River National Park.Gowar NCR and Gowar South NCR ~ several small Box-Ironbark reserves north-east of St. Arnaud.
Great Cambungi Swamp
Balranald Shire has constructed a bird viewing structure at this important waterbird breeding area. The new hide (which is not well sited) is part of the Tri-avian Corridor, the other hides being in Wakool Shire (Tullakool Evaporative Basin) and Murray Shire (Reed Beds, Mathoura to Picnic Point Road).Greater Bendigo National Park (incorporating Whipstick & Kamarooka State Parks)
Green Gully State Forest
This smallish wetland (SF368) is located near the intersection of Perricoota Road and Lower Thule Road north-west of Bunnaloo. Green Gully is a former course of the Murray RiverGreens Lake ~ north-east of Corop. managed as an irrigation storage by Goulburn Murray Water and sometimes used for boating. Water comes from Cornella Creek, Lake Cooper overflows and the Western Warange Channel. There are sometimes Brolga and a range of water birds in the reserve.
Griffith Lagoon NCR (proposed, D11) ~ the exisiting 69ha Quambatook Flora Reserve. Access via Griffith Road from Boort Quambatook Road. Vicroads Map 20 A9; CFA Regional Directory Region 20, Map 213 88 187
Gulpa Island ~ see Barmah State Park, Barmah Forest, Moira Forest, Millewa Forest & Gulpa Island.
Gunbower Island
Located between anabranches of the Murray, this 26,400ha 'island' supports an extensive red gum wetland of international significance for its importance to birds, native mammals and amphibians. Over 170 species of bird, 24 reptile species, many species of fish and around 200 plant species have been recorded on the island. No wonder the island attracts anglers, campers, canoeists, 4WD drivers, bird observers and bushwalkers. The MV "Wetlander" offers scenic cruises in the area. Farms, including dairy farms, cover part of the island.
Wetland on Gunbower Island (K Stockwell)Located within its confines is the 19,450ha Gunbower State Forest, part of one of the six Living Murray icon sites. The forest is called the Perricoota-Koondrook Forest on the NSW side of the Murray River.
The Gunbower Forest is an important breeding area for colonial waterbirds. It contains threatened plant and animal species, and is visited by migratory birds listed under international treaties with Japan (JAMBA) and China (CAMBA). Interim objectives and outcomes for actions under the First Step of The Living Murray Initiative are as follows: maintain and restore a mosaic of healthy floodplain communities; 80% of permanent and semi-permanent wetlands in healthy condition; 30% of River Red Gum forest in healthy condition; Successful breeding of thousands of colonial waterbirds in at least three years in ten.
Good birding spots on the island include Clump Bend (Gilbert Whistler, Grey-crowned Babbler), Reddy lake and Little Reedy Lake.
VEAC's draft proposal is for part of the area to be a 9,574 hectare national park, most of which will be the eastern part of forest. Some areas of State Forest (e.g. near Koondrook) will remain available for timber harvesting.
Guttrum State Forest ~ a red gum wetland in Victoria north-west of Barham. Access via Miller Road (which runs off Murrabit Road). The wetland is called Campbell Island SF in NSW. CFA Region 20 Rural Directory Map 192 350 380. See Gunbower-Koondrook-Perricoota Forest page.
VEAC's draft proposal is for this area to remain a State Forest ~ logging, camping and dogs permitted.Hattah National Park ~ a large national park to the north-west of the region covered. See Parks Victoria Hattah National Park Page for information. VicMap has a special outdoor recreation map on Hattah National Park.
VEAC's draft proposal is for a small area to be added to this national park.Heathcote-Graytown National Park
Mt. Ida is located alongside the Northern Highway just north of Heathcote, half an hour south of Echuca. From its summit all the way north to New Guinea, there is no higher hill. The mountain and its slopes form a flora reserve. Mt Ida, which was a flora reserve for many years,is now part of the new Heathcote-Graytown National Park which covers 12,833ha from Mt. Ida in a north-easterly direction. The former Mt Black Flora Reserve is included in this new national park (proclaimed late in 2002). It is possible to see marked changes in the vegetation as one travels in a north-south direction through the park.A resident of the area is said to have discovered minerals in Queensland, naming the area of his find after Mt. Ida, near which he had lived, but substituting the d for a dollar sign, i.e. Mt. Isa. The story may be a furphy but it's a good one.
Mt Ida has its riches too. But the riches lie not in metals, (although gold mining occurred around here and accounts for the establishment of the nearby town of Heathcote), but in its diversity of flora. The north slopes are not as densely vegetated as the south-facing slopes because the southern slopes are cooler and wetter. On the western side, along the Northern Highway (B75) there is a stand of Yellow Gum. Further east is Grey Box and Red Stringybark. Then the box forest gives way to Red Ironbark (in Dargile Forest). River Red Gum, Yellow Box, Yellow Box and Silver Wattle grow along some of the gullies and creeks. Some of the other plants found here include Daphne Heath, Grevillea alpina and a wealth of wattles, including Gold-dust Wattle (Acacia acinacea). Grass Trees are common further east, near Mt Black. The area is best visited in Spring.
Covering around 30,000 hectares, the area between Mt Ida and Rushworth is the biggest remaining box-ironbark forest in Victoria. The new national park covers 12,833ha of this area. The Spring Creek Nature Conservation Reserve covers a further 401ha and the Whroo Nature Conservation Reserve covers a further 2298 ha. some of which has been mined. The remainder of the forest is State Forest, much of which is used for logging.
There is a vehicular track from the Northern Highway to the summit of Mt Ida where it is relatively easy to find fossils in rocks. There is a basic picnic ground near the Highway. Bushwalkers can walk from Mt. Ida into Heathcote but the appropriate topographic maps and a compass should be carried. An even better walk is to walk a circuit incorporating Plantation Track and the Dargile Forest.
There is an excellent camping and picnic ground, with toilets, off Plantation Track, in the Dargile Forest. It can be reached via the Colbinabbin Road and Hicks Rd. The wildflower display around the picnic ground is outstanding in Spring. Many of the trees around the picnic ground have been planted. Further from the picnic ground is an ironbark forest which supports a magnificent display of wildflowers in spring, provided, however, the winter has been reasonably wet.
The park extends eastward toward, a locality known as Graytown, which once had a population of several thousand. The former Mt Black Flora Reserve, which offers superb views, is part of this new National Park and is popular with bird watchers and bush walkers.
The forest also extends into the large Puckapunyal Military Training Area. The military reserve is a retreat for emus and is where some of the oldest ironbarks can be found.
The reserve is bordered on the west by a number of vineyards which produce shiraz of outstanding quality.
To the north of the reserve is an area of State Forest and the Whroo Historic Reserve. Unfortunately, a wonderful grasstree forest between Whroo and Rushworth is not included in the reserve.
Birding is good in the forest, with a mix of northern and southern birds, especially from Spring through to Autumn. Birdos regard the Whroo area as one of the best birding areas in the State, particularly when the ironbark is in flower.
There is a small timber industry based on Rushworth and ironbark.
Bordering the Northern Highway (B75), the nearby Crosbie NCR is worth visiting. It, too, is a Box-ironbark Forest forest.
1:25,000 topographic maps covering the park include Ladys Pass, Heathcote, Graytown and Redcastle (VicMap).
Henty Nature Reserve ~ native bushland off Alan Street Henty (to the north-east of the region) with Yellow Box, Red Gum and a rich understorey.
Hird Swamp Wildlife Area, Macorna North (G97)
Located near Macorna North , north-west of Leitchville (VicRoads Map 21 C7), Hird Swamp has recently become a Mecca for bird observers, some of whom have travelled from as far afield as Broome to observe Painted Snipe. Species which have been observed here include Freckled, Baillons and Spotted Crake; Buff-banded Rail; Wood and Marsh Sandpiper; large numbers of Spoonbills, Egrets, Herons, Cormorants, Dotterels; Whiskered, Gull-billed and Caspian Tern; Australian Bittern; Orange Chat; Brown Quail; bush birds such as Pied Butcherbird; and birds of prey, including White-bellied Sea Eagle. Fire ravaged the swamp a few years ago. Since then, regeneration has occurred and the swamp is sometimes flooded through summer when most other wetlands are dry. An enlarged reserve is to cover 456 hectares.
Painted Snipe: sometimes seen at Hird Swamp (DO)Hird Swamp: sometimes ideal for waders and water birds (KS)
It has recently been established that the Australian Painted Snipe is a separate species to the Asian bird, and Hird Swamp is one of only a few locations where this rare bird has been recorded over recent years. So this swamp is of great ornithological significance. 456 hectares.
Reference map: Keely 1:50,000 (Central Mapping Authority of New South Wales).
Horseshoe Lagoon Bicentennial Park (Moama Wetlands)
Located on floodplain alongside the iron bridge over the Murray in Moama, this park (SF742) features an elevated walkway over a billabong. Most of the trees are red gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) but there is an understorey of wattles, native grasses and native cherry (Exocarpus strictus). A swamp near the scout hall is frequented by water birds, including Pelican and Purple Swamp Hen. Dollar Birds are often observed in summer.A colour brochure on this reserve has been prepared by local students and is available from the adjoining Murray Shire offices.
Hut Lake ~ a 'permanent' drought refuge wetland in Barmah State park managed by Parks Victoria. Dried out in 2007.
Inglewood Nature Conservation Reserve ~ three mallee blocks totalling 1,200ha near Inglewood and Kooyoora State Park.
Inglis Bushland Reserve
The Inglis Bushland Reserve Management Committee has signed off on a management plan with other stakeholder groups for this 17 hectare reserve which is situated along the Congupna-Guilfus Creek, south of Katandra West.The reserve protects a remnant of Grey Box Grassy Woodland which once covered a wide area. The reserve was originally set aside as a watering point for drovers and later became a sporting reserve before the focus shifted to revegetation and conservation.
Island Sanctuary, Deniliquin
There are few places in Australia where you can stand on the footpath of the main street of a town and see a wild platypus. You can, with luck, in Deniliquin. Water rats and tortoises might also be sighted in the lagoon. There is a picnic shelter located within the reserve. Toilets are located alongside the main entrance.Opposite the shops in Deniliquin's main street is a delightful park. Further along the main street, on the same side as the shops, a lagoon of the Edward River has been preserved in its natural condition. The lagoon is roughly parallel to the footpath. A footbridge leads from the footpath across the lagoon into an area of River Red Gum bushland. Many young gums which came up after a recent flood can be seen around marker 2.
Red Kangaroo: sometimes in Island Sanctuary (D Ong)Red Kangaroos and Grey Kangaroos are found here and, until a few years ago, there were emus. The emus left during a flood, which is just as well as they were becoming a little aggressive! A mound has been built (marker 3) to enable the kangaroos to survive floods. They prefer the cooler, lower area near marker 3 when it is hot.
Over 100 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve. Many seek shelter in the rushes alongside marker 5. Waterbirds are common and many live and breed here when conditions are right. During flood times, hundreds of Nankeen Night Herons and Intermediate Egrets nest in the reserve. Some locals go birding in the reserve from 7am almost every Sunday morning.
Jallukar Nature Conservation Reserve
Located to the south-west of the area covered by this web site, this high-quality, species-rich open woodland with large Yellow Gum, Yellow Box and river Red Gum trees, provides habitat for threatened species. Located west of Ararat, this 1165 ha block was previously available for firewood collection.Jackass Flat Nature Conservation Reserve ~ a 71 ha reserve near Eaglehawk. VicRoads Map 281 L4.
Jarvis Creek Regional Reserve ~ located east of Wodonga outside the area covered by this site.
Johnson Swamp (proposed NCR, D28)
Near Hird Swamp, this 555 hectare reed-covered Ramsar wetland may support Painted Snipe. A local bird observer recorded around 50 species in the 465 hectare reserve when it was dry.
This wetland has often been open to hunters during the duck season but VEAC's proposed upgrade from a wildlife reserve to NCR means this will no longer be the case.Judith Eardley Reserve
~ over 300 hectares of grassy woodland adjoining the Wychitella Nature Conservation Reserve near Wedderburn, owned by Australian Bush Heritage Fund. Not yet open to public. The Fund has recently purchased two adjoining properties and incorporated them into this private conservation reserve.Kamarooka State Park ~ now part of Greater Bendigo National Park
Kanyapella Co-operative Management Wildlife Reserve (part of the proposed Lower Goulburn River National Park)
Located east of Echuca and close to the Goulburn River (VicRoads Map 31 G4), Kanyapella Basin is the remains of a former lake, Lake Kanyapella, which resulted of earth movements (Cadell Fault) about 18,000 years ago. When the lake drained, winds blew sand from the dry lake bed to form sand dunes. The remainder of the area is classified as River Red Gum abd Black Box dominated shallow freshwater marsh and freshwater meadow.2,452 hectares of the 2,950 hectare basin is a wildlife reserve and flood retardation wetland, management of which is divided between several agencies. Parks Victoria is responsible for a 13ha nature reserve which includes a storage shed. State Forest occupies 461 hectares ~ logging has been banned. 1,960 hectares was purchased by the former State Rivers and Water Supply Commission and is now owned by Goulburn Murray Water; much of this area is leased to adjoining land holders as grazing land, subject to conditions.
At present, Kanyapella Basin is predominantly dry and degraded due to the combined effects of a protracted period of below-average rainfall, river regulation, tree removal, over-grazing and introduced pest animals. In particular, the shrub and ground layers have suffered.
Since much of the basin was declared a wildlife reserve in 1985, Dwarf Cherry, Chinese Scrub, lignum and native grasses have been making a very slow recovery.
Many mature trees were left along road reserves. There is now considerable regeneration of Black Box and Red Gum over most of the reserve.
Recovering Black Box grassland in Kanyapella Forest (K Stockwell)A feature of the reserve is an enormous Box Tree, hundreds of years old, and still in healthy condition.
Base of a huge old Box Tree in Kanyapella forest (K Stockwell)The basin used to fill in times of flood. Drainage channels and embankments were built in the reserve some years ago, affecting the habitat. Some channels carry runoff from nearby irrigated farms. Some embankments were built on the suggestion of shooters to facilitate flooding of sections in order to promote the breeding of ducks but the work has fallen into disrepair. Rehabilitation works are necessary if the basin is to act as a flood retarding basin and if its conservation values are to be enhanced. Such works are likely to be undertaken late in 2007.
It is some years since the reserve has contained water and so many of the Red Gums are stressed. Fences and infrastructure have fallen into disrepair. Cattle, horses (until recently) and sheep from neighbouring properties have grazed most of the reserve.
Key stake-holders include Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority, DPI, DSE, Parks Victoria, Campaspe Shire, Field and Game Victoria and Goulburn Murray Water. Other stake-holders include adjoining landholders, Koyuga-Kanyapella Landcare Group and the Echuca and District branch of Bird Observers and Conservation Australia (BOCA).
Following consultations and meetings of Kanyapella Basin Steering Committee, a management plan has been prepared for Kanyapella Reserve. Copies of the plan are available through the DPI office in Tatura.
It is expected that, if environmental water is available and following management works, it will be allowed to enter an area of rushes and red gum in late May some years and then be allowed to evaporate or be drained away as summer approaches. Only 6% of the area is likely to receive environmental water so that the basin can be used as a flood amelioration basin should a major rain event occur. The Black Box/grassland area may not be deliberately flooded. Local land-holders have expressed an interest in re-using environmental water as it drains from the wetland.
A section of sand dune has been revegetated and boundary fences were replaced or repaired in 2007-08. Members of the Koyuga-Kanyapella Landcare Group are keen to fence a small section so that missing indigenous shrubs (such as wattles) can be reintroduced.
Bush Stone Curlew: occasionally sighted in Kanyapella Forest (K Stockwell)As a result of the conservation measures, it is hoped that Brolga will return to this forest, that Bush Stone Curlews will continue to survive and that water birds will breed each winter. At least four Bush Stone Curlews were observed in the forest in April 2007 and a forest lease-holder claims some are resident on his farm. If commercial cattle grazing ceases, an ecological grazing regime using sheep may be appropirate at times to maintain optimal condition for the Curlews. Grazing would be best done over winter provided the soil is dry, before indigenous grasses flower and set seed. Summer grazing should be avoided. Grazing should be restricted to certain parts of the reserve.
Walking tracks may be marked and dilapidated picnic tables repaired so that the public might enjoy this forest in increasing numbers. It is possible to complete circuit walks using existing vehicular tracks. Cross country (compass bearing) walks are possible in places. When planning a day walk in the forest, it is best to cross the main drainage channel via Mitchell Road bridge or via a regulator near the end of Castle Road.
Here is a circuit walk. Drive from Echuca via Ogilvie Avenue and Mitchell Road and, shortly after the bitumen ends, at a large Kanyapella Sign, turn left into Tehan Road and immediately turn left along a dirt track. Leave some cars alongside this track at the edge of a grassy woodland where a fence separates them from Mitchell Road.
O km Park cars and follow the track to the raised Levee and walk along the levee toward the east
1.6km Turn left off the levee once a track alongside the main drain is reached.
2.1km Turn right at Mitchell Road and cross the drain (Warrigul Creek)
2.3km Turn right onto dirt track (take left fork)
4.1km Veer left
4.6km Once Warragul Track/Castle Track junction is reached head due east (off track, using a compass) (wetland).
6.3km Right at Murphy Road (head south along the eastern boundary of the reserve)
7km Right at Scott Road and immediately turn left and follow Kanyapella Track
10km Left at Scott Track and follow it along old fence line.
13km Follow the main drain back to Mitchell Road and then back to the cars (15km)
OR, if the drain is dry, cross the drain and take Levee 4 back to Tehan Road and the cars (15km)
OR walk alongside the main drain away from Mitchell Road and cross it on a regulator wall ~ return on the other side of the drain, taking Levee 4 back to the cars (17km).New signs have recently been erected (e.g. advising that trail bikes must be registered and ridden only by licensed drivers and advising that firewood collection is not permitted). To help protect the vegetation, some boundary fences have been rebuilt and others repaired; a new grid has also been installed. Illegal grazing appears to have been overcome.
Regtistered vehicles can be driven on several unsealed roads, including Mitchell Road, Watson Road, Castles Road, Fraser Road and Tehan Road. The unsealed tracks in the basin are often impassable, and should be avoided, following rain or flooding. Driving on wet tracks can damage them, causing deep ruts.
The basin is zoned as a Cooperative Management Wildlife Reserve but, if VEAC's draft recommendations are accepted, the reserved area is to become part of Lower Goulburn River National Park. More active and better management is likely now that the management plan has been signed off and a national park proposed. A stakeholder body helps coordinate and advise on management. DPI Tatura is presently preparing a coloured brochure about the reserve.
Note: the collection of firewood is not permitted in the reserve; patrols have been stepped up and several prosecutions have occurred. Warning signs have been erected.
Topographic map: Koyuga 7825-1-2 1:25,000 (VicMap)
<http://nremap-sc.nre.vic.gov.au/MapShare.v2/imf.jsp?session=14530>
Kara Kara National Park
~ a box-ironbark park to the south-west of the region covered by this site. It is covered in Chris Tzaros's book.
Topographic map: Redbank North 7524-2-N 1:25,000 (VicMap).Kelvin View bushland (Strathbogie Ranges)
This small patch of diversified bushland along the Euroa-Strathbogie Road opposite the GA Waterhouse Reservoir often affords excellent birding opportunities, e.g. Spectacled Warbler, Varied Sittella, Scarlet Robin, Weebill and Eastern Yellow Robin. Plants include Blakely's Red Gum, Stringybark, Stypandra, Geebung, Varnish Wattle, Exocarpus and Common Calytrix.Kerang Lakes
Several reserves are based on some of the many lakes in the Kerang area. There is a water bird hide off the Murray Valley Highway north of Kerang. There is a well-signposted bird hide overlooking an ibis rookery.There's a large number of lakes over a wide area around Kerang and there are moves afoot to declare some a part of an Important Bird Area. The IBA is expected to include Cullen Lake, Round Lake (near Lake Boga), Lake Tutchewop, Hird Swamp, Lake Murphy and several other wetland areas.
When they contain water, each of the lakes mentioned usually support a wide variety of bird species. On the other hand, such lakes as Lake Boga, Lake Charm and Kangaroo Lake, which are usually kept full, support relatively few birds. Lake Tutchewop supports few birds when it is very low because its salinity level becomes very high but sometimes supports many waders and waterbirds when the water is less salty. Birders: Golfcourse Lake, Tresco West Bushland Reserve and Goschen Reserve are worth visiting when you are in this area.
Kerang Regional Park (proposed)
VEAC has proposed a 1,138 hectare park around the town of Kerang. It is part of a Ramsar wetland and proposed Important Birding Area (IBA). Grazing, forestry, hunting and the use of firearms will not be permitted. Camping and dogs will be allowed.Kimbolton State Forest
This box forest lies on the western side of Lake Eppalock. Patons Lane (VicRoads 44 J7) winds its way from Bendigo-Redesdale Road through this forest. The land is gently undulating and supports a wonderful display of wildflowers after good winter rains. Good for bushwalking. There are boat ramps, camps and tourist facilities alongside the lake. The following map covers much of the forest: Myrtle Creek 77244-2-2 1:25,000 (VicMap).Kings Billabong Park (proposed)
VEAC proposes a park in the Sunraysia incorporating Kings Billabong, Karadoc State Forest, Red Cliffs Scenic Reserve, Mildura Bushland Reserve and other crown land in the vicinity.Kinnairds Wetlands, Numurkah
Part of a prior stream depression, Kinnairds Wetlands covers an area of nearly 100 hectares of natural and constructed wetland in Numurkah. Apart from wetland, there is woodland with mature old and regenerating River Red Gum. There are walking and cycling trails but no toilets. A brochure is available from Moira Shire. Environmental water was released into the wetland in May 2008. (Contact me if you have difficulty obtaining a copy so I can email you a copy. It is a huge file. Webmeister)
Kinnairds Wetland (K Stockwell)Whilst you are in the area, the lakes in Numurkah are worth checking out for waterbirds, including Crakes.
Kinypanial Grassland ~ a Trust for Nature indigenous grassland reserve south-west of Terricks.
Koondrook State Forest ~ See Gunbower-Koondrook-Perricoota Forest page.
Koorangie (The Marshes) Wildlife Reserve
A 3,255 hectare reserve on the Loddon-Avoca floodplain.
VEAC proposes including this area into the new 7,790 hectare Leaghur-Koorangie National Park.Kooyoora State Park ~ Melville's Caves
This park, straddling the hills at the northern end of the Bealiba Range, has several blocks and covers 11,646ha. It was enlarged in area late in 2002. To reach this park, turn west off the Calder Highway onto the Kingower Road at Inglewood. Pass through Kingower and proceed along the Rheola Road, following directional signs to Melville's Caves. There are car parking areas, picnic grounds and camping areas. There are also some conservation reserves and privately-owned bushland nearby.The main feature of this park is a granitic outcrop. The highest point is Mt. Kooyoora where some of the rocks have fissured to form "caves".
Much of the Park is open woodland so cross-country compass walking is possible (many walking clubs organise walks in this park). Some trees found in the Park are Blakely's Red Gum, Grey Box, Yellow Gum. Red Stringybark, Red Ironbark and Mallee.
Birding is very good and Echuca bird observers have observed around 50 species here one day recently, including Mallee Ringneck, Rainbow Bee-eater, White-browed Babbler, Wedgetail Eagle and Western Gerygone.
There is a pleasant free overnight camping area at the base of Mt Kooyoora. A number of walking tracks lead from the lower picnic ground and the birding along these tracks is excellent. Cross country walking is popular, of moderate difficulty in places.
The drive from near the summit along Kirwan's Road and Old Kingower Road is well-worth doing. The old crystal mine is worth seeing.
Spring is a good time to visit here, when the wattles and many other wildflowers are in bloom. Hot summer days are best avoided.
The Park is about three hours drive from Melbourne along the Calder Highway or about two hours drive west from Echuca via Mitiamo and Serpentine.
Formerly 3,593 hectares in area, this park was increased in area in 2002.
There are large areas of box-ironbark forest and mallee around Wedderburn and Kooyoora State Park. As most of the ironbark forest has been cleared and as little was protected by the parks system, there was a strong case for increasing the area of this park whilst still leaving state forest for timber getting, honey production and other activities.
There are a number of small reserves to the south of the park which afford excellent birding opportunities, e.g. Moliagul Historic Reserve. Swift Parrots are sometimes observed in Winter. These small reserves are frequented by several species of Honeyeater.
Inglewood Nature Conservation Reserve (three blocks) is nearby.
Korrak Korrak Grasslands
A Trust for Nature reserve on the Patho Plain west of Kerang, this reserve has good populations of such threatened animals as Hooded Scaley-foot, Curl Snake, Tesselated Gecko, Fat-tailed Dunnart and Little Button-quail. Plains-wanderer and Blue-winged Parrots have been observed on the property. Please do not enter the property without permission from the Trust (local manager is Eris O'Brien).Korrak Korrak NCR (proposed, D15)
Korrak Korrak NCR is a high quality Chenopod Grassland and Riverine Woodland recently purchased by DSE. It adjoins Trust for Nature's Korrak Korrak grasslands. Unfortunately, part has been illegally cropped and in need of revegetation and weed control work.Kotta NCR
~ a grassland reserve alongside Whitfield Road Kotta (West of Echuca). It adjoins Glassons Grassland (which is owned by Trust for Nature and managed for the Trust by local naturalists) and privately-owned convenant-protected indigenous grassland. It has been reserved to help protect the endangered Plains Wanderer, Fat-tailed Dunnart and endangered indigenous grasses. Purchased by the Crown in 2004 and temporarily reserved.
Plains Wanderer
© David Ong
