17/06/2026
Another brilliant walk in perfect winter weather at Yaluk Barring Park (formerly Sydenham Park) in Keilor North yesterday.
Its Woiwurrung name means "river trail," which seems rather appropriate for this 231-hectare slice of nature.
Starting from the trail opposite the Keilor Golf Course, our merry band of ten wandered through grasslands and shrublands to a viewing platform overlooking Jacksons Creek, where we paused to take in the sweeping valley views.
From there we continued on to the giant lizard sculpture and the old heritage shearing shed, which provided the perfect spot for a relaxing morning tea break before continuing our adventure.
The easy strolling soon came to an end when we reached the muddy descent into the valley. Gravity helped on the way down, but there were already a few nervous glances about how we'd be getting back up!
At the bottom we reached the confluence of Jacksons Creek and Deep Creek, the exact spot where they join forces to become the Maribyrnong River.
The landscape was glowing with flowering Field Mustard, painting the valley in shades of gold against the fresh green grass. Swamp Wallabies and Eastern Grey Kangaroos watched our progress with mild amusement, while two Wedge-tailed Eagles circled high overhead, probably wondering why humans voluntarily walk through mud for fun.
Then came the climb back up the escarpment. There was a bit less chatting and a bit more puffing as we tackled the hill, passing an old stone wall before rewarding ourselves with a well-earned lunch stop.
After a little more exploring, we returned to the cars where boots were scraped clean of enough sticky clay and weeds to start a small garden. Then it was off to the Keilor Golf Club for the most important part of the day—a good cup of coffee.
Thanks again to Ron B for introducing us to another beautiful section of the valley that was completely new to us.
