GDTA supporting development of a new Grampians track

For the past couple of years, GDTA members have been assisting the Grampians Walking Tracks Support Group (GWTSG) in the construction of a new 400 metre long walking track leading into Golton Gorge in the northern section of the Grampians/Gariwerd National Park. The work is under the supervision of David Witham (the Group convenor), Graham Parkes (former Chief Ranger of Grampians NP), and current Parks Victoria rangers Kyle and Chris. 

The original track into Golton Gorge was destroyed some years ago by a combination of bushfire and flood.  The new track follows a different route along the southern side of the creek leading into the gorge.

Three GDTA members have attended six working bees with the GWTSG over the past years – Bill Casey, Gib Wettenhall and Mike Gustus. Initial work consisted of selecting and surveying the route of the new track through dense undergrowth and rocky sloping terrain. This was followed by clearing the route of vegetation to a width of about 1.5 metres, a quite laborious task.

Then the really heavy work began – the collection and placement of rocks of all sizes to form the track. We were fortunate to have among our group present and retired farmers who were no strangers to heavy work. After each section of the track is formed, the previously cleared vegetation is fed into a mulcher, then spread to form an attractive surface.

Working bees are held every 3 or 4 weeks in the cooler months.  If you are interested in taking part, contact Bill Casey – maintenance@gdt.org.au

For information about GWSTG, visit Halls Gap Community Noticeboard.