Walk Description

Join us for a journey through time and nature as we explore the rich history of Victoria’s gold rush era and European settlement. We’ll start the day with a 11.4-km circuit through Wombat State Forest, visiting the historic La Franchi’s and Stevenson’s Huts—once home to early European immigrants. This moderately challenging hike follows gentle 4WD tracks with the occasional hill and creek crossing, offering a chance to soak in the peaceful bushland while tracing the footsteps of pioneers.

After stretching our legs on the trail, we’ll step further back in time with a visit to the Anderson’s Mill Heritage Weekend at Smeaton. Nestled in a valley between two creeks, this magnificent five-story bluestone mill will be buzzing with activity as the heritage iron waterwheel turns once more.

Inside the mill, artisans will showcase spinning, weaving, and luthier guitar-making. Outside, blacksmiths, beekeepers, and woodworkers demonstrate age-old skills, and you can browse stalls offering local produce, native plants, and heritage steam engines. You an also grab a coffee or a bite to eat while soaking in the atmosphere of this National Heritage Month celebration.

Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore history both on the trail and at the mill

Distance: 11.4km | Duration: 3 hours

Transport

Transport to and from the walk location is by car. Please indicate your transport requirements and preferences on the booking request form when you book in.

If you don’t have a car, we can’t guarantee to provide you with a lift – this will depend on available drivers and their locations.

Passengers must pay the driver their share of car-pooling costs as described on the Car-pooling page. Please discuss the preferred method of payment with your driver.

Booking

Booking is required for this walk. Please indicate what similar walks you have done recently (i.e. in the past few months) to give the leader confidence that you are capable of doing this one. Refer to Walking Grades which, in conjunction with the walk description, will help you assess whether you have the required walking fitness and experience to do this walk.

The Leader will confirm your acceptance on the walk, or not, via email.  The leader will provide details of where and when to meet.

By booking into this event you acknowledge that you agree to abide by our Code of Conduct.

Booking Fee:
Members: free.     Non-members: $8.

Payment:
Non-members are required to pre-pay their booking fee by Paypal or, if you are not a Paypal member, you can use Paypal to pay by credit / debit card.

Cancellation:
If you need to cancel, please advise the leader as soon as possible, so that someone else has the opportunity.
There will be no refunds, so please do not book unless you are fully committed to walking.

What to bring

• Day pack
• Sufficient water (2 litres, more on hot summer days)
• Lunch and snacks
• Hat, sun screen
• Suitable outdoor clothing (no jeans/sneakers!)
• Rainwear & warm jacket
• Proper walking shoes/boots
• Hand Sanitiser

Refer to our Gear Checklist page for more details.   If you are not properly equipped, the walk leader can decide not to let you participate on this walk.

Safety and Ambulance Insurance

We strongly recommend that you have Ambulance cover. If conditions are hazardous, the walk may be cancelled. If any doubts at all, check your emails the night before and the morning of the event. For more details refer to Joining a walk and your safety

For the latest government advice about Covid-19 refer to:
Better Health Victoria: Covid-19

Still have questions?

Check out What happens on a walk.

Check out Day walks and social activities.

Contact the leader using the “Enquiry” button.

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Facebook: @YHABushwalkingClubVictoria
Instagram: @YHABushwalkingClub.

Members who wish to submit photos for social media or Yeti should refer to Member Resources.