The Walking Group expected heavy showers on the day planned for our walk through Royal Park but instead we were greeted by glorious sunshine.
Originally an important place to the kulin nation, Royal Park is now the largest park in the City of Melbourne
Dawn R, our guide for this walk led us to The Habitat Tree, an example of rotting trees and branches left in the area to provide a home for insects like the flightless grasshopper known as the matchstick. Hundreds were recently released in the area and feed on the local native grasses. Clearly there is action taking place to maintain a healthy ecosystem in the park.
Half way through our guided tour we stopped at a well patronised local café for coffee. Old fashioned cakes and slices sat temptingly in the display case. I had a nostalgic moment seeing Redskins, a lollipop from childhood on offer,
One of the loveliest areas in the park was the Native Garden designed by architect, Grace Fraser. Trees here have the room to reach their full height and many local species of plants were in flower. While numerous wattles in full bloom reminded us at every turn that spring is just around the corner.
Walmsley House, an iron prefabricated structure was our next stopping point. The 1800’s equivalent to IKEA showed definite signs of age but was still in one piece.
We completed our walk at the Burke and Wills cairn. This was the spot where they started their ill fated expedition to the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Thanks to Dawn for introducing us to Royal Park. It has so much more to offer than what we were able to see that day. I certainly intend to return to discover more.