Walk 32 in “A Guide to Walks in the Great Otway National Park Eastern Section”.
The weather report suggested a maximum of 9oC, frequent showers and snow above 900m in the alps! On top of this encouraging report the Surf Coast Wonderfalls Trail Run was on – it was clearly time for the Friend’s annual waterfall walk – this year to Lower Kalimna Falls!
Fourteen hearty FEO members enjoyed this 6.5 km (return) walk along a well maintained track alongside the Sheoak creek. The occasional rain ensured that the temperate rain forest was looking at its best while the water flow in the creek provided confidence that there would be plenty of water coming over the falls.
A number of birds were identified by song including the Eastern Spinebill and the Yellow Robin. It was pleasing to see a variety of fungi species including Snow fungus (Tremalla fuciforms) and a variety of shelf fungi.
Marg and Alison kept a careful eye on orchids along the track and a number of Tall Greenhoods (Pterostylis longifolia)were observed.
The occasional heavy rain didn’t dampen our spirits or those competing in the Wonderfalls Trail Run, although the trail was getting muddier by the moment. Fortunately Phil found relief from the rain in a tree hollow and was able to direct some of our damp participants to the shelter.
At the track junction just before descending to the Lower Kalimna Falls we caught a nice sighting of a very active Koala feeding. Members were able to point out the Koala to other walkers, delighting both adults and children.
The falls were very pleasant with plenty of water coming over the edge.
The group gathered behind the falls to enjoy morning tea while being sheltered from the occasional rain shower.
Retracing our steps to the Sheoak picnic ground we encountered many more Wonderfall runners and gave them encouragement although many looked muddy, wet and exhausted! We caught some excellent views of the creek and its surrounds as we returned to the picnic ground.
This easy walk would be rewarding in any season, however it is at its best on a wet winter day. On a negative note it is a great shame that Parks Victoria don’t currently have the resources to repair the track to Upper Kalimna Falls or the bridge and return track that crosses to the western side of Sheoak creek.
We returned to the picnic ground, examined our muddy shoes and enjoyed lunch in the sun.
A very pleasant falls walk!
Rob Shepherd