After varying forecasts of thunderstorm, hail, rain and wind the weather was just perfect for the end of the year combined celebration of Friends of Eastern Otways and Angair at Moggs Creek on Saturday, December 13. Twelve people had decided to join us for the walk and it was the first time that a few in the group had visited the picnic ground. This was so exciting as it is such a beautiful area to share as the track winds along the creek valley.
The wooden bridges crossing the creek and the gullies always make for a good photo opportunity.
There was very little water in the creek but enough to provide for the resident or visiting fauna. We recognised ten species of bird calls and we had a good viewing of a male Gang-gang cockatoo high up in the trees. Unfortunately we did not have bird photographers and good cameras to capture its beauty.
There were many small plants in flower as we walked along including Blue Bottle-daisies, Blue Pincushions, Prickly Starwort, Pale Vanilla-lilies and masses of Hairy Pennywort with its globular clusters of pale-yellow flowers. It was disappointing that the Victorian Christmas Bush, Prostranthera lasianthos var. lasianthos, was not in bloom as we usually have bushes covered with white flowers making an attractive display in the gully at Christmas time.
However the magnificent display of Tall Potato Orchids, Gastrodia procera, made up for this loss. These orchids were just so spectacular as they stood so tall and straight in clumps in a few places along the track. I think we counted about 30 specimens. One group of 20 plants was greatly admired. It is a long time since we have seen so many – we usually have to be content with one or two specimens.
There were many keen photographers and admirers.
It was such a lovely walk through the ferns and forest vegetation.
Back at the picnic ground another 30 people gathered chatting informally with friends as Rob and Keith got to work with the wood barbecue and prepared to cook sausages and rissoles for 42 hungry people. Unfortunately, due to pressures on Parks Victoria staff, they were unable to join us on this occasion and provide the gas barbecue. Their presence was sadly missed as this has been a great partnership over so many years.
Liz thanked ANGAIR supporters and took the opportunity to present Honorary Life Membership to Janet Stephens for her dedicated commitment to the organisation.
Another successful year for both groups and hopefully everyone can relax over the next few weeks and come back refreshed for the 2026 year ahead.
Marg MacDonald