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Avenel Granite Treks are guided geology and nature walks for local residents to experience and learn about the spectacular granite landscapes around Avenel and the Strathbogie Ranges.
The treks are led by experienced local volunteers and renowned geologist Professor Neil Phillips of Melbourne University and the Strathbogie Granite Project.
Through the generosity of local landholders we visit landscapes, outcrops and viewpoints not usually accessible to the general public and learn about the local geology, flora and fauna.
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The Strathbogie Granite Project
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The Strathbogie Granite Project is a long-term collaboration between Professor Neil Phillips of the University of Melbourne and Professor John Clemens of the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa and their colleagues.
The Strathbogie Granite extends 2000 km2 from Tallarook to Mount Samaria in central Victoria and is globally scientifically important due to the abundance of the mineral cordierite.
The project studies the geology of the iconic granite hills and plateaus of the Strathbogie Ranges, and also provides a valuable baseline for regional ground water, soil, vegetation, rock cover and agriculture studies.
Much project field work has only been possible with the support of landholders and local communities who have provided access to and shared their deep knowledge of the land.
Find out more about the Strathbogie Granite Project:
https://phillipsgold.com.au/strathbogie-granite-project
Strathbogie granite: a summary – G Neil Phillips 2017
Recent Granite Treks
Gawarn Baring, Trawool
Gawarn Baring means Echidna Track in the Taungurung language. This walk climbs through mixed eucalypt forest and granite outcrops to the spectacular Trawool reservoir.
Gawarn Baring was developed in partnership between Goulburn Valley Water, Taungurung Land and Waters Council, Biik Cultural Land Management and the Victorian Government.
https://gvwater.vic.gov.au/gawarn-baring
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Mt Bernard, Avenel
This trek climbed the western slopes of Mt Bernard, crossed the plateau and descended into valley grassy forest on the southeastern slopes.
Along the way the route passed through granitic hills woodland, heathy dry forest and grassy dry forest, each with their own distinctive vegetation and, of course, plenty of granite.
Bunding Creek, Avenel
This walk crossed grazing land and followed a small creek until joining the Bunding Creek, climbing through a small gorge with spectacular granite scenery.
The local geology comprises granite and some hornfels, and shows the power of floods to move rocks and debris around the landscape.
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​Join the Avenel Granite Treks
There are usually several Granite Treks each year, in Spring and Autumn.
The treks are for reasonably fit walkers. Young people under 18 years of age are welcome with prior agreement and must be accompanied by an adult parent or guardian.
Each trek is graded using the Australian Walking Track Grading System. Information is provided before each trek about the planned route, distance, duration, local features and participant responsibilities.
A qualified first aider attends each trek. Treks are free to attend.
Please contact Avenel Active to join the mailing list for the Avenel Granite Treks.
With thanks to Neil Phillips, the Avenel Granite Treks volunteers and participating landholders.
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Avenel Granite Treks
