Bacchus Marsh Market Gardens
Bacchus Market Gardens
Date: Wed Aug 14
Walk leader: Arie Baelde
When: Wednesday 14 August 2024, 10 AM start, 1.30 PM return
Where: Bacchus Marsh Township area
Grading: Easy; 7 km on flat surface
Bacchus Marsh is in a rich, well watered alluvial plain on the Werribee and Lerderderg Rivers. The traditional owners, the Wadawurrung were all but wiped out by one of the quickest land grabs in world history as squatters flooded in through Corio Bay with stock and convict shepherds from Van Diemen’s Land. The Law and The Church played catch up as adventurers and entrepreneurs did as they pleased. The discovery of gold in Ballarat, Ballan and Daylesford soon saw the roads through ‘The Marsh’ clogged with man and beast. The squattocracy was challenged by the land-less as laws were introduced to foster closer settlement and increase agricultural output. A public irrigation scheme resulted in diversification and intensification, and the railway connection to Melbourne gave rise to a thriving dairying industry. Now ‘The Marsh’ is home to orchards, berry fruit and leafy vegetable growers.
Our route will follow the Werribee and go through market gardens before we come out on The Avenue and head back into town. We will acknowledge places of significance to the traditional owners, walk past historic buildings such as the Chicory Kiln, the Courthouse, Captain Bacchus’ Mansion and St Andrew’s Church. We will visit a working market garden and talk to the grower about present day farming in Bacchus Marsh.
Participants who are non-GDTA members, please bring $10 cash on the day to cover insurance as GDTA guests. Dress for the predicted weather, bring your own drinks, snacks, morning tea and first aid kit.
No dogs allowed on this walk through market gardens.
More information: Arie Baelde a.baelde@gmail.com 0419366189
Registration link
If you have difficulty with on-line registration, contact the walk leader, Arie Baelde, at a.baelde@gmail.com
BRING: Walkers should bring their own first-aid kit and any required personal medications, water bottles, personal hiking gear (sun glasses, walking sticks, small pack, etc). Wear clothing appropriate for the predicted weather conditions on the day. Hiking boots or good walking shoes are recommended. Bring Lunch.
MEET: Details to registrants close to the date
Approximate Location
