Buckland Valley State Forest Draft Recreational Master Plan
21st May 2021
Victoria’s Great Outdoors
Cover Images: Top - View up the Buckland Valley. Ritchie’s and Dunphy’s stores, Buckland Lower. (Ritchie family – Buckland Valley Goldfield)
Bottom – Buckland River, between Shippen’s and New Chum gullies
Acknowledgement
We acknowledge and respect Victorian Traditional Owners as the original custodians of Victoria’s land and waters, their unique ability to care for Country and deep spiritual connection to it. We honour Elders past and present whose knowledge and wisdom has ensured the continuation of culture and traditional practices.
We are committed to genuinely partner, and meaningfully engage, with Victoria’s Traditional Owners and Aboriginal communities to support the protection of Country, the maintenance of spiritual and cultural practices and their broader aspirations in the 21st century and beyond.
21st May 2021
Report Prepared By Andrew Swift Beechworth VIC 3747 E: [email protected]
Disclaimer: This report may be of assistance to you, however the author does not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.
Legend/Guide to using this document
Colour Coding Designated Camping Areas Day (Picnic) Visitor Areas Walking & Multi-use Tracks Historic Sites & Interpretive Routes Recreational Activities
Activity Legend
Camping Walking - Grade 2 Forest User Information
Picnicking Walking - Grade 3 Unisex toilet
Four-wheel Driving Fishing Disabled Access
Bike riding Aboriginal Cultural Limited Mobility Access
Heritage
Horse Riding Historic Sites
Geographic Referencing
BV 10
An alphanumeric reference, throughout his plan, refers to specific geographic locations based on the existing ‘Kilometre Markers’ located along the edge of the Buckland Valley Road. The markers zero datum is at the Buckland Bridge (12.4km from the Porepunkah round-about). ‘BV’- Buckland Valley Road, ‘10’ – refers to the kilometre distance past the bridge. ‘Out’ refers to heading away from the bridge, ‘in’ refers to returning to the bridge. These have been established for forest management vehicles, particularly for larger vehicles, in identifying positions on the road to other road-users via a UHF radio, or similar communications system.
CONTENTS 1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1. Background ...... 2 1.2. Objectives ...... 2 1.3. Project Partners ...... 4 1.4. Acknowledgments ...... 5
2. Context – Geographic and Historical ...... 7
3. Expectations and Experiences ...... 11 3.1. Analysis of community feedback ...... 11
4. Regional Recreational Offerings and Context ...... 13
5. Recreational Activities and Opportunities ...... 15 5.1. Camping, General ...... 15 5.2. Picnicking ...... 15 5.3. Walking ...... 15 5.4. Self-drive touring ...... 16 5.5. Four-wheel driving– ...... 16 5.6. Visiting Historic Sites ...... 17 5.7. Nature Observation ...... 17 5.8. Horse Riding ...... 17 5.9. Fishing ...... 19 5.10. Hunting...... 19 5.11. Prospecting ...... 20 5.12. Bike Riding ...... 20 5.13. Swimming and Water-play ...... 20 5.14. Limited Mobility Access...... 21 5.15. Dog Use ...... 21 5.16. Photography ...... 21 5.17. Table: Summary Recreational Activities and Opportunities ...... 23 5.18. Commercial Activities ...... 27 5.19. Recreational Based Commercial Opportunities ...... 27 5.20. Education and Research ...... 27
6. Camping ...... 29 6.1. Table: Summary Designated Camping Areas and Infrastructure ...... 33 6.2. Informal camping areas ...... 35 6.3. Non-camping areas ...... 35 6.4. Camping Amenities and Infrastructure ...... 36 6.5. Rubbish and Waste Management ...... 37 6.6. Camping Modes, Styles & Types...... 38 6.7. Table: Summary, Designated Camping Areas and Camping Types ...... 41
7. Designated Camping Areas - Description and Proposals ...... 43 7.1. Ah Young’s Flat ...... 45 7.2. Camp Flat ...... 47 7.3. Shippen’s Flat ...... 49 7.4. BV19 (Proposed New Area) ...... 51 7.5. Leinster Flat ...... 53 7.6. Good Hope Flat ...... 55 7.7. Head Race Flat...... 57 7.8. The Bend ...... 59 7.9. Beveridge’s Station ...... 61
8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions & Proposals ...... 63 8.1. Buckland Bridge Gateway ...... 64 8.2. BV01 Picnic Area ...... 67 8.3. BV02 Picnic Area ...... 69 8.4. Camp Flat Picnic Area ...... 71 8.5. Junction Picnic Area ...... 74 8.6. BV22.5 Picnic Area ...... 76
9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites ...... 77 9.1. Fairley’s Creek Gold Mine stamp battery sites ...... 78 9.2. Camp Flat to Junction Interpretive Route ...... 81 9.3. Nelson Mine and Battery Site ...... 83 9.4. Red Jacket Mine Walk ...... 86 9.5. Miners Right State School Site ...... 88 9.6. Leinster Battery Site ...... 90
10. Walking and Multi-use Tracks ...... 93 10.1. Re-opening of old mining tracks, water races and roads ...... 93 10.2. Selection Criteria ...... 94 10.3. Long-Term Considerations ...... 94 10.4. Western River Multi-use Track, Section 1 ...... 97 10.5. Western River Multi-use Track, Section 2 ...... 99 10.6. Bridge – Camp Flat Walking Track, Section 1 ...... 101 10.7. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 2 ...... 105 10.8. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 3 ...... 107 10.9. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 4 ...... 108 10.10. Telecom Multi-use Track ...... 109 10.11. Junction to Clear Creek Multi-Use Track ...... 111 10.12. King’s Ditch Walking Track ...... 112 10.13. Shippen’s Flat to Leinster Flat Walking Track ...... 114 10.14. Leinster Flat to Good Hope Flat Walking Track ...... 116 10.15. Shippen’s to Good Hope Walking Track ...... 118
11. Interpretation & Presentation ...... 121 11.1. A Shared Landscape ...... 121 11.2. Indigenous Culture ...... 122 11.3. Goldfields Heritage ...... 122 11.4. Other Themes ...... 123 11.5. Geographic Place Names ...... 123
12. Implementation Planning & Priorities ...... 125 12.1. Environmental Management ...... 126 12.2. Maintenance and Resourcing ...... 126 12.3. Structural Design Style Guidelines ...... 127 12.4. Emergency Management ...... 127 12.5. Connectivity of Proposed and Existing Facilities ...... 129
13. Access ...... 131 13.1. Road Access and Conditions ...... 131 13.2. Signage Strategy ...... 132 13.3. Promotion and Publicity ...... 133
14. Additional Considerations...... 135 14.1. Community Access and Volunteer Programs ...... 135 14.2. Nomination for Historic Landscape ...... 135 14.3. Broader Tourism Potential ...... 135
15. References...... 137
16. Map Sheets...... 139
Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan Introduction
1. Introduction Victoria’s State forests offer many recreation opportunities to experience our natural landscapes.. The Victoria’s Great Outdoors initiative will improve access and create new facilities that will increase the health and social wellbeing for an increasing number of Victorians.
Crown land within the Buckland Valley, and subsequent land uses and historic sites occur within Taungurung Cultural landscapes - places that have potential to tell the story of the human interaction with country. These landscapes can provide us with valuable information that give us a deeper understating of the human history of our communities, the State and Nation. These landscapes also provide us with opportunities to physically engage with nature in a way that significantly improves our physical well-being. Recreational activities, such as day-tripping, picnicking, nature and history observation, camping, and bushwalking, can help foster this relationship with nature and our heritage. Considered planning of recreational facilities and their associated connections to landscape will further encourage and strengthen these experiences. The Buckland Valley is a unique landscape, and an important place in the history of north east Victoria and the State. It provides many opportunities for local communities and visitors to understand and engage with the environment in a positive and healthy way.
This plan will guide the long-term planning of recreational opportunities and Taungurung objectives for the Buckland Valley State Forest, providing a range of low impact opportunities for development over the next 10 years. This plan will be a partnership collaboration between Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning, Taungurung Land and Waters Council, and Parks Victoria.
The intention of this plan is to enhance the existing visitor experience to the valley in a way that does not detract from the experiences that visitors currently value. The recommendations in this plan are options for consideration only. Implementation of these proposals is dependent upon further detailed planning to incorporate practical, environmental, cultural heritage and budgetary considerations.
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Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 1. Introduction
1.1. Background The Buckland Valley is a popular destination for a range of user types and groups undertaking many different nature–based activities. The existing designated camping areas along the valley have recently undergone upgrades to facilities including location signage, fireplaces, road-gravelling and toilets. There is, however, little in regards to the formalisation of day-use areas and activities that provide interpretation of the human habitation of the valley.
Increasing popularity of the Buckland, and outdoor activities in general, provides many challenges for land managers and partners; Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP), the Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC), and Parks Victoria. The consideration of planning and management of the Buckland for recreation will become an increasingly important agenda for these agencies. 1.2. Objectives To develop a ‘light-touch’ Master Plan to guide recreational investment in the Buckland Valley State Forest, supporting a diverse offering of recreational activities, improved amenity, access and enjoyment of the forest.
The process will support Taungurung objectives and requirements for planning processes for the Buckland Valley, and align with the principals and aspirations of the Taungurung Buk Dadbagai Taungurung Country Plan). The Master Plan will also be developed in response to community and land manager feedback.
This project is funded by Victoria’s Great Outdoors program through the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, focusing on giving more people greater opportunities to enjoy, and positively connect with the diverse nature-based offerings that regional Victoria has to offer.
2 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 1. Introduction
Vision: To create the opportunity for Victorians to engage with the great outdoors of the Buckland Valley through camping and associated nature and heritage-based activities. To provide opportunities, through partnerships, for the Taungurung People to achieve their objectives for Country. To encourage healthy activities and foster knowledge and understanding of the human interaction with country and ultimately gaining a better understanding and appreciation of the places we live and inhabit; and in turn, building a stronger community and identity.
Potential: Cultural, nature-based and walking tourism are strong themes marketed by State, regional and local authorities. The Buckland and its many cultural places and historic sites offer many opportunities to align with many of these tourism themes and marketing strategies. Outdoor recreation-based activities and cultural tourism are powerful partners in promoting the region’s points of difference from other nature-based tourism centres.
3 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 1. Introduction
1.3. Project Partners This project is an important opportunity to create a positive and engaging recreational facility through a collaborative relationship between its principal partners. Fostering longer- term, ongoing collaboration, engagement and communication.
Department Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DEWLP) Public land in Victoria covers approximately 8 million hectares in area, approximately one- third of the State. Public land is provided for the community for a range of uses including recreation, cultural, forestry, conservation and government services. State forests, managed by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, cover 3.2 million hectares. DELWP is Victoria’s primary Crown land manager and is made up of many agencies which bring together Victoria’s climate change, energy, environment, water, forest, planning and emergency management functions into a single department to maximise connections between the environment, community, industry and economy. The Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning partners with Traditional Owners and a range of stakeholders to ensure that: • Land is productive and used in a sustainable manner; • Infrastructure on public land is suitable for its purpose and well managed; • Marine and coastal environments are protected and improved; and • Biodiversity is protected and healthy. DELWP is the land manager of the Buckland Valley State Forest and is the leading partner in the development of this Master Plan.
Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) Taungurung Land and Waters Council (TLaWC) are representatives of the Taungurung people, the first Nation and Traditional Owners of the lands north of the Dividing Range, bounded by the Campaspe River in the west and the Ovens River in the east. TLaWC is the corporate representative and ‘face’ of the Taungurung people and serves to uphold their interests with respect to culture and country: • With respect to the management and protection of Aboriginal Cultural Heritage through its appointment as the Registered Aboriginal Party under the Victorian Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 (Vic). • With respect to native title rights and interests, Taungurung Land and Waters Council has entered into a Recognition and Settlement Agreement (RSA) with the State of Victoria under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010, which recognises Taungurung Land and Waters Council as the Traditional Owner Group Entity (TOGE) as appointed by the Taungurung. • With respect to the Taungurung Natural Resource Agreement (NRA), that commits the State and the Taungurung to work together in partnership to develop strategies for Traditional Owners’ participation and employment in natural resource management within Taungurung territories. • Develops programs and projects for the economic, social and cultural well-being of Taungurung people and looks after Taungurung country. The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin. TLaWC are important partners in the development of this Master plan and will continue to make significant contributions in the planning of any proposed facilities. A key role will be in the development and implementation of the presentation and interpretation strategy for the Buckland Valley State Forest
Parks Victoria (PV) Parks Victoria is a statutory authority of the Victorian Government acting in accordance with the Parks Victoria Act 2018. It is responsible for the management of more than 4 million hectares, including 3,000 land and marine parks and reserves. PV recognises the value and importance of working in partnership with Traditional Owners to manage country. Parks is a valuable partner, specifically in relation to the Beveridge’s Station camping area, the adjoining Alpine National Park (in terms of four-wheel driving access and touring), and the recreational links with the Mount Buffalo National Park.
4 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 1. Introduction
Alpine Shire Council (ASC) The Alpine Shire is a local government agency. It covers 4,790 square kilometres, 92% of which is public land, including State forest and National Park and reserves. The council provides a range of services to residents and visitors, enabling economic, social and cultural development in its municipal area. The Alpine Shire Council’s direct partnership role in the Buckland Valley Master Plan is the management, maintenance and future planning of the Buckland Valley Road for its residents and visitors. The ASC also plays an important role in the promotion and economic development of the region, including the Buckland Valley as a nature-based tourism destination.
Minor Partners Other agency partners involved with the Master Plan and/or the potential implementation of the components of the recommendations, will involve different agencies at different levels, and may not be directly influenced, or make contributions to the plan. These agencies include: ❖ Tourism North East (TNE) – works collaboratively with government and industry partners to strategically grow, enhance and promote the high-country offering. This includes elements of the Buckland Valley State Forest and the proposals within this plan. ❖ North East Catchment Management Authority (NECMA) – are responsible for the integrated planning and co-ordination of land, water and biodiversity management in each catchment and land protection regions. The Buckland River is a significant part of this catchment area. ❖ Heritage Victoria – makes decisions about the most important European historic heritage sites in Victoria. This role is particularly important with some of the goldfields related proposals outlined in this plan.
With the potential implementation of aspects of the plan, other partnerships may need to be formed with community, user-groups and associations. These will be specifically identified in the relative proposals in the report, or with any preliminary planning requirements for specific facility implementation.
1.4. Acknowledgments The input from the DEWLP project committee was vital to the completion of this Master Plan, and Neil Wilson, Hayley Hollis, Simon Gough, Ben Rotheram and Larissa Montgomery are thanked for their contributions. Significantly important was the contribution from the TLaWC team, both in the field and in the background compilation of the plan. Eddie Wilson (TNE) provided valuable regional tourism and recreational visitation insight.
Other significant contributions came from a range of local residents and recreational users of the Buckland Valley. The various horse riding individuals and representatives of a range of groups, mustered up by Diann Talbot. Diann also offered field-work assistance in identifying important social interpretation aspects of the goldfield’s history of the Buckland. The Hall and Lumsden families provided important land-use insights. Fred Sargent supplied up-to- date information on key mining localities. Ray Kompe provided further insight into the history, and of visitation patterns over the years. Field work assistance from Anthony Handley and Paul Bosland. Glen Thompson additional photography and technical support. Linda Reeves provided valuable additional word processing assistance. The many people who provided feedback via Engage Victoria, as well as anecdotally in passing, whilst undertaking field work, all have helped to shape this plan.
5 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 1. Introduction
6 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 2. Context
2. Context – Geographic and Historical
The Buckland River commences its course on the northern slopes of the Great Dividing Range, in the Barry Ranges, and flows northward beneath the Buffalo range flanking its western boundary and the Morse’s Creek/Devils Creek range to its east. The Buckland flows into the Ovens River at the township of Porepunkah. The rugged and mountainous natural landscape of the Buckland provides a powerful setting for the human stories that lie within its watershed.
The Buckland Valley has many hidden attributes. It has powerful and strong connections to Traditional Owner habitation, in particular through links to Mount Buffalo and the Victorian Alps, and with the plains of the Murray-Darling basin. The Buckland Valley and its surrounds also contain many significant places to Taungurung people.
The Buckland Valley also contains a broad range of well-preserved features and archaeological sites from Victoria’s gold rush era; sites that demonstrate various mining, social and cultural situations. The Buckland Valley goldfield landscape is specifically significant for its:
• first European settlement and population of the district, through the initial gold rush of some 6,000 people in 1853/4,
7 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 2. Context
• large death toll from Colonial Fever or typhoid in 1854, estimated to have taken as many as 1,000 or more lives, • the Valley traces the path of the Buckland Riot of 1857, Victoria’s worst racial conflict and first major outbreak of anti-Chinese sentiment on the Australian goldfields, which saw the violent expulsion of some 2,000 Chinese miners from the diggings, • range of well-preserved historic mining and archaeological sites.
Traditional Owners Connections Prior to colonisation, for many thousands of years, Taungurung Traditional Owners took care of Country and were knowledgeable and skilled land and natural resource managers. The valley of the Buckland and its surrounding country was sustained in a pristine condition. The natural resources of the Buckland, its permanent streams and adjoining mountains, its plants and animals, were integrally interconnected; both providing and being conserved and protected by the people.
Colonisation and the arrival of pastoralist to the district in the mid-1830s saw the dispossession and forceful removal of Taungurung Traditional Owners from their Country and into Protectorate stations under the various policies of the Victorian colonial government. The polices and the forced acquisition of lands by pastoralists saw the prevention of access to Country. Other impacts included the introduction of new diseases, removal of sources of traditional food, plants and animals through introduction of cattle-grazing and the introduction of poorer dietary substitutes saw a deterioration in Aboriginal People’s health and well-being. Despite massive upheaval the Indigenous people fought to maintain connections to their people and Country.
Post – Contact The tranquility of the of Taungurung Country, in vicinity of the Buckland Valley was first disturbed by Europeans during the late 1830s, early 1840s, when squatters began to move into the district from the north. John Buckland was associated with the Bowheedgee (Barwidgee) Run in 1840, which included the Port Punka or Little Portland Run (Porepunkah). Thomas Buckland took up the Buckland Run (later Wandillegong run) in 1844. The river was named after one of these squatting run holders.
Goldfield’s Era Henry Pardoe and his party of six men are generally credited with the discovery of gold in the Buckland River in the winter of 1853. They were said to have obtained over 360oz of gold within a few days from the Maguire’s Point area. By mid-December daily increasing population was estimated at 3,000 with as many as 6,000 by the end of January 1854. This represented half the population of the Ovens (Beechworth) mining district. the Gold was initially worked in the banks and beds of the streams with pan and cradle, though within a very short time the topography of the valley was utilised with the introduction of the water-race and sluice-box. This method of mining quickly dominated the field for its efficient and labour-saving means of gold extraction.
Initially basic canvas and rudimentary dwellings, stores and shanties were spread out along the valley in close proximity to the diggings. Within a short time, the permanent nature of the gold deposits and workings saw the general centralisation of population and commercial business areas. The Camp (Camp Flat/Twelve-Mile) was the first main mining camp, containing many mixed business and dwellings. The location was also the first government administration centre for the district; including a police camp, lock-up and petty sessions court. The Junction was the Buckland’s main ‘upper’ settlement, and was a turn-off point for workings up the west and east branches of the Buckland River. The Lower Buckland had two main business centres - the first at Dunphy’s Creek, referred to as Lower Buckland, and another centre down toward the Buckland Bridge known as Lower Flat, or Buckland Lower.
8 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 2. Context
During the hot summer of 1854, disease swept through the diggings population, and “Colonial Fever” or typhoid killed a significant proportion of the population. The locality was referred to as ‘The Valley of the Shadow of Death’, with estimated deaths of over 1000 from disease. The surviving population deserted for other fields, eventually to return in lesser numbers.
Chinese began arriving on the field in mid 1856. By 1857 the population in the Buckland Valley was about 500 Europeans and 2,000 Chinese miners. A growing resentment towards the Chinese population heightened in the winter of 1857, with the opening of a temple on Joss House Hill, and the taking up of alluvial ground above the Junction. An anti-Chinese meeting at Tanswell’s Hotel on 4th July, ignited ill-feelings by some of the Euro-Americans. At the conclusion of the meeting, a group made for the new Chinese camp at Louden’s Flat intending to expel all Chinese from the valley. The angry mob of Europeans grew as they successively robbed and beat the Chinese as they were driven down the valley. A scene of devastation was left in their path - smoldering tent frames, torn, trampled and scattered possessions. Officially, three Chinese died in the aftermath of the riot, though there were stories of others killed and bodies disposed of before the police arrived. With the promise of government protection, the Chinese gradually returned to the Buckland, becoming a strong portion of the goldfield’s population.
In 1858 a “quartzmania” had taken hold of the European population. The Alta and Nelson were the first quartz reefs to be profitably exploited. The mines were also the first to have quartz crushing machinery erected on the Upper Ovens fields. During the early decades of mining, local and Melbourne-based companies were formed to exploit the reefs. Gold- bearing quartz reefs were discovered throughout the Valley, with the Junction, Clear Creek, Fairley’s Creek, Miner’s Right and Leinster all important quartz reef mining localities.
Towards the end of the 19th Century, large-scale hydraulic sluicing was introduced to the field. The use of high-pressure water, through steel pipes and cannons, enabled efficient working of ground that may not otherwise have been readily worked. The introduction of this new technology created a small boom on the Buckland. It also had one of the most significant environmental impacts.
During the late 1890s bucket dredging technology was introduced to Australia from New Zealand. This mode of mining made the Upper Ovens mining district one of the largest gold producers in the State. Bucket-dredges were introduced to the Buckland Valley in the early 1900s with eight dredges operating in the upper valley up until 1919. The dredges also contributed significantly to the legacy of environmental impacts of the area.3
Goldmining made Victoria what it is today. It however came at a huge cost to Country and had many environmental impacts.
3 Brough Smyth, R, The Goldfields and Mineral Districts of Victoria. 1869, Republished Queensbury Hill Press, 1980. Easton, J, The Happy Valley Reefs, The Buffalo Creek Auriferous Belt, and The Buckland River Quartz Mining Area. Unpublished Bulletin, Geological Survey of Victoria, 1912. Flett, J, The History of Gold Discovery in Victoria, Poppet Head Press, 1979. Kaufman, R (LRGM Services). Thematic Environmental History of the Alpine Shire, NE Victoria. June 2004 Swift A, A Historical Record of the Buckland Valley Goldfield, Unpublished, 2003. Talbot, D & Swift, A. The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
9 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 2. Context
10 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 3. Expectations and Experiences
A string of Llamas carrying equipment for campers in the Buckland Valley. April 2021 3. Expectations and Experiences
Recreational users of the Buckland Valley often return regularly over a significant period of time. It is important to acquire a clear understanding of what their expectation and experiences are. This knowledge is a valuable source for planning the future of recreation in the Buckland Valley State Forest.
The gathering of information for this plan has taken many forms, including: • Online, through the Engage Vic Survey platform. • Onsite meetings with individual residents and key stakeholder groups. • Ad-hoc and opportunistic conversations in the field. • Meetings with key stakeholders and agencies.
A significant portion of this Master Plan has been developed as a result of the community consultation process and the feedback received.
3.1. Analysis of community feedback To inform the draft Master Plan, the DELWP project team developed a community survey to canvas what it is people enjoy about the Buckland Valley, and what additional things people need to support their experience. The community survey was hosted on Engage Vic. Between November and late January 2021, 425 people completed the survey, reaching a broad audience and targeting local users, clubs and stakeholders. Buckland Valley Master plan (engage.vic.gov.au)
The results of the survey show the natural and cultural values of the valley are important. More than half the responders visit the valley multiple times a year and stay with groups of friends in multiple tents/vans etc. Free and remote camping are the key attractions, followed by fishing, swimming, 4-wheel driving and bushwalking. Users have indicated while access to facilities, such as toilets, do support their experience, infrastructure should not interfere with the sense of peace, freedom and remoteness of the camping areas.
Visitors/users/responders identified the crowding of campsites, people leaving rubbish and driving at speed on main roads, significantly detracts from the visitor experience, and in some cases, raises safety concerns. Feedback also identified opportunities for greater connectivity of tracks and trails with existing points of interest, including the Alpine National Park and the Buffalo Valley. Of particular interest is better catering for horse riding, walking and bike riding away from main vehicle traffic areas.
There were 425 contributions to the survey, the majority of which were by individuals. A summary of points from the survey shows:
• A majority of visitors stayed overnight (86%), whilst 14% were day visits only. • Tents were the most popular mode of camping, followed by campervan and caravan, whilst camper trailers, swags and horse floats were among the other modes utilised.
11 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 3. Expectations and Experiences
• Camping in groups was as popular as individual camping. • The lower camping areas of Ah Youngs and Camp Flat are more popular than the upper camping areas. • Whilst 40%, responded they are self-sufficient, key infrastructure requirements identified are 4WD access (46%), toilets (38%) fireplaces (33%), large open spaces for group camping (22%), information signage (20%) and designated walking tracks (19%). Shelters and picnic tables were a much lower priority (10% >). • Main interests identified are free camping, nature and scenery, a place to relax and unwind, its general recreational offering, its heritage values and proximity to nearby towns. • Recent activities undertaken were camping (69%), 4WD exploring (49%), fishing (45%), swimming (39%), nature enjoyment (38%), bushwalking (34%), hunting (30%), prospecting (17%), horse riding (16%), trail bike riding (12%), mountain bike riding (9%). • Activities they would like to be supported with greater focus included 4WD (40%), fishing (39%), hunting (36%), bushwalking (35%), nature enjoyment (32%), horse riding (25%), swimming (20%), mountain bike riding (18%), trail bike riding (17%). • Additional recreational facilities they would like to be included short walking tracks with interpretive signs (44%), longer multi-use tracks for walking or riding (42%), increased privacy between campsites (33%). • Greater provision for information on topics include history of gold mining (66%), natural values (plants & animals) (54%), Indigenous heritage (48%), geology (48%), current recreational activities (44%), European exploration (38%).
The survey participants were from a broad area across Victoria and New South Wales, with a strong representation from the region and local towns.
Themes under the “further comments” section, were varied and had a good representation across most key user groups.
Common themes included: • maintain beauty and peacefulness, • maintain the natural feel, • minimising litter, • fishing & hunting traditional activities, • improvements to road, speed limitations and dust, • preservation of nature and heritage, • more historical information on goldmining, • historic sites for visitation, • information on prospecting, • importance of hunting to keep pest animal populations low, • increase camping facilities for peak times, • facilities such as tracks for bushwalkers, • facilities for horse riders, • more intimate camping areas, • camp fire safety and more fire pits.
Many comments expressed concerns that over-development of the Buckland would spoil the ‘wilderness’ appeal of the valley.
The Engage Victoria survey, which was available on-line from 13th November 2020 until 20th January 2021, was a valuable tool in understanding, in general terms, how people utilise the Buckland Valley State Forest. This survey method does have limitations and was indicative only and more complex requirements and issues were identified by other forms, including meeting with individuals and user groups.
12 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 4. Regional Offering
4. Regional Recreational Offerings and Context
It is important to identify where the Buckland Valley fits within a regional context as a recreational tourist destination. This involves identifying the potential offerings and experiences for locals and visitors to engage with its many spaces.
Nature based (eco) and cultural (heritage) tourism are important for the local economy as well as community social wellbeing and identity. Nature-based tourism offers opportunities to deliver strong environmental conservation outcomes. Cultural tourism offers opportunities to engage Taungurung traditional owners, local communities and visitors to the Buckland Valley. Traditionally both segments of nature and cultural tourism form a strong union for presentation and experiences as a whole.
Nature based tourism has many offerings in the north east, with readily identifiable activity- based products, with quality asset infrastructure. Amongst the key nature-based tourism assets are:
Mount Buffalo National Park - Day and overnight visitor facilities, offering National Park-based bushwalking, water-based activities swimming, canoeing and winter cross-country skiing. Nature-based environment is a mountain experience, a granite landscape with grand vistas, waterfalls and open plains and snow gum forests. Cultural highlights presently are the pioneering tourist industry represented by the Chalet. Mount Buffalo is also a significant Taungurung cultural landscape.
Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail – Ride High Country brand, over 100km of easy-to- ride, off-road riding. Offering beautiful scenery, historic sites, food, beer and wine experiences and a sense of nature and space. A multi-day experience for a range of users. Promotion of scenery, food, wine and historic townships.
Mount Hotham Alpine Resort – Traditionally strong winter-based activities, including downhill skiing and boarding. Growing wilderness experiences of cross-country skiing, snow-shoeing and snow camping. Outside its core season, a growing ‘green season’ offering includes culturally-themed walking and multi-use tracks, highlighting the indigenous connection to country, gold mining heritage, cattle grazing and early ski history. Accessibility to high country walking in the Alpine National Park is also a growing aspect to summer-based activities, particularly to Mount Feathertop and the proposed Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing. The resort is a key location in the Great Alpine Road touring route, providing scenic motoring- based opportunities, and offering ready access to its summer and winter recreational activities along its length.
Falls Creek Alpine Resort, Bogong High Plains – Also traditionally strong winter- based activities, including downhill skiing and boarding, with strong connections to the Alpine National Park and the Bogong High Plains. Falls Creek offers strong connections to alpine recreational based activities of bushwalking, high country huts, backcountry and cross-country skiing. Rocky Valley Lake is a popular water- based recreational destination for swimming, fishing, kayaking and small-scale boating. In recent years a strong investment in mountain biking with the establishment of the Falls Creek Mountain Bike Park.
Alpine National Park – Accessed through numerous locations, including, Mount Beauty, Harrietville, Falls Creek and Mount Hotham, the Alpine National Park is one of the region’s largest recreational destinations. Catering to a host of nature-based activity types, including sight-seeing, bushwalking, fishing and kayaking nature and history observation. Bushwalking and drive-to camping is also a strong activity with many free localities.
13 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 4. Regional Offering
Mystic Mountain Bike Park, Bright – A large network of cross-country and gravity trails situated in pine plantation and stream reserves between Bright and Wandiligong. Suitable for a range of riders.
Lake Buffalo – Offers a range of watersports, including water skiing, wake boarding, canoeing and boating. The locality is also a popular day visitor area for picnicking, fishing and swimming.
Upper Ovens Townships – Bright, Harrietville, Porepunkah, Mount Beauty, Myrtleford all offer a range of nature-based activities. Walking track networks, swimming holes, and picnic areas are among the well-used facilities of the Upper Ovens and district townships. Commercial caravan and camping parks and a few free camping locations cater to overnight visitation requirements.
The Buckland Valley State Forest, has the opportunity to complement the range of activities regionally available. Its principal offering is as a minimal-infrastructure destination that provides ample, non-commercial, camping opportunities, in a native forest setting.
The provision of recreational facilities is only a minor function of DELWP, however, through the Victoria’s Great Outdoors initiative, the Buckland Valley Master Plan offers opportunities to create a simple, nature and cultural based experience.
The enhancement of the existing experience should be the primary focus of any future planning for recreation in the valley.
14 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
5. Recreational Activities and Opportunities
The Buckland Valley State Forest has a long tradition of being a destination for outdoor, nature-based recreational activities. Recreational activity significantly increased during the 1970s with upgrades to the Buckland Valley Road with increased hardwood harvesting activities. The attributes of the Buckland landscape; its river and streams, forested hills, open grassy plains, four-wheel drive track network, and geology have provided the opportunities for a range of activities to take place.
The principal activities seen in the valley over recent decades have included four-wheel drive touring, picnicking, camping, hunting, relaxing, social gatherings, horse riding, gold fossicking, trail-bike riding, nature observation, visiting historic places and bush walking. Most involved day trips or overnight stays and required little or no specific facilities or infrastructure.
The addition of simple improvements to the existing facilities, and the creation of specific infrastructure, such as dedicated multi-use tracks or visitor areas, will provide greater opportunities for access to a broader range of visitors.
Benefits The benefits of improving and adding to the recreational offering in the Buckland Valley are significant, and will result in: • enhancement and promotion of natural and cultural features and landscapes, • community benefit, • greater understanding of Traditional Owner connections to Country, • understanding of the importance goldfields history of the district, • used by locals, • economic development, • improve the quality of the recreational offering for campers, day tourers, new and return visitors, • opportunities for assistance and engagement from community.
5.1. Camping, General Camping is one of the main recreational activities undertaken in the Buckland Valley State Forest. See sections 6 & 7 for detailed analysis and recommendations.
5.2. Picnicking Picnicking is a popular activity, though is under-represented in facilities, with the Buckland Bridge picnic area, being the only formal offering. There is significant potential to provide opportunities for visitors and locals to undertake day-visitation based activities that can utilise picnicking facilities. Provisions for increasing opportunities are further proposed and outline in this Master Plan. See Section 9 for detailed analysis and recommendations.
5.3. Walking Walking of many types is a strong and ever-growing segment of nature-based tourism in north east Victoria. No formal infrastructure currently exists in the Buckland Valley. Outlines for catering for this type of recreational activity form a significant component of this Master Plan. See Sections 10 for detailed analysis and recommendations.
15 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
5.4. Self-drive touring Self-driving touring, involving day visitation, attracts visitors to the region wishing to undertake a series of day trips from their accommodation base, usually located in nearby townships. Should the recreational offering of day visitation facilities and short walks be increased, this mode of recreation would be likely to become popular.
5.5. Four-wheel driving– Four-wheel driving is a growing outdoor recreational activity. This Master Plan acknowledges the importance of the valley for four-wheel drivers. Both, day and overnight four-wheel drive users utilise the existing recreational infrastructure and road network. Creation of specific tracks for recreational four-wheel driving is not necessarily within the scope of this plan. The extensive four-wheel drive network, largely situated within the Alpine National Park, accesses popular and established high-country routes.
There is currently an abundance of promotional and informative material available to four- wheel drive users, including: o a range of published maps and guides, o GPS apps, such as maps and touring routes, o active four-wheel drive clubs, o dedicated websites and social media sites, o commercial tour operators.
This material is usually accessed before touring and most drivers are well prepared with navigation routes and aids.
There will be many direct and indirect benefits to four-wheel drive users with the general recommendations of this Master Plan. The increase and improvements to facilities will encourage four-wheel drivers to stay longer, adding significant value to their experience of the valley.
Specific infrastructure that may benefit four-wheel drive touring could be the provision of specific high-country touring route information relevant to the Buckland Valley. This could be promoted online, on DELWP apps, or websites such as the ‘More to Explore’ app.
Promotion of various aspects of four-wheel driving in the Buckland/high-country region, through DELWP associated promotional material4, may include:
• Promotion of principal touring routes and attractions. • Track classifications and grades for principal touring routes could be promoted to guide drivers of various skill levels.5 • Themed routes could be considered, with particular destinations, with nature or heritage interest points highlighted along designated routes.
4 This may include the ‘More to Explore’ app, DELWP website, through its Forest and Reserves, Recreational Activities page, or through the Visitor Guide, Forest Notes, or similar material. 5 Four Wheel Drive Victoria have developed a Track Classification guide. https://www.4wdvictoria.org.au/index.php/track-classifications
16 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
Additional onsite four-wheel drive user and touring information could be provided for those less prepared for their four-wheel driving experience. General information could be provided at two key strategic four-wheel drive access points:
o Buckland Bridge gateway: Provision of general four-wheel driving information, including popular routes specifically accessible from the Buckland Valley. Specific information on routes accessible from the lower Buckland Valley, including Goldie’s Spur, Scotchman’s Creek, and Clear Creek Tracks.
o Alpine National Park Entry: Located at the intersection of Buckland Valley Road, Mount Selwyn Road and Selwyn Creek Road. Provision of general four-wheel driving information, including popular routes specifically accessible from this point of the valley.
5.6. Visiting Historic Sites Visiting historic sites and historic interpretation rated high in the community consultation process. The Buckland valley has a strong Traditional Owner story and connections, as well as an important goldfields history. Both are important aspects of the Buckland Valley. See Section 9 for detailed analysis and recommendations.
5.7. Nature Observation This activity, including birdwatching, usually requires little if any specific infrastructure or facilities. The activity of nature observation will be greatly enhanced by the recommendations of this Master Plan, including greater access with the formalisation of walking track routes.
Provision of nature-based information associated with interpretation routes would also provide greater insight into the natural landscape.
Horse-riding is growing in popularity in the Buckland Valley. Image courtesy Diann Talbot
5.8. Horse Riding Horse riding is an emerging recreational activity in the Buckland Valley, largely as a result of ‘traditional’ riding areas within the district becoming busier with other types of recreational users.6 There is currently no specific area or facility catering to horse riding, with riders utilising existing tracks, mostly in the Camp Flat locality.
6 Traditional horse riding areas, particularly at Snowy Creek, near Freeburgh, have had a significant increase in trail bikes. Other tracks around Bright and Wandiligong have also seen a significant increase in mountain bike use. This has lessened the experience and raised concerns about safety.
17 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
As a result of enquiries through the Engage Vic public consultation program, a meeting was held at Ah Young’s on the 1st February 2021. Approximately 40 riders from eight riding groups from the broader region were represented. A number of suggestions and recommendations resulted from the gathering.
Two types of rider were represented:
o Off-track riders - those who follow informal tracks, (such as cattle tracks), and have minimal needs, such as an open flat for float parking, and perhaps water. Generally, a more experienced rider, who has local knowledge.
o Track, or trail riders – who require more defined tracks or trails, that are generally signposted and identified as a horse riding route and have some connection to facilities at either end of the route. May have less experienced riders in the party and are seeking quieter trails (away from motor bikes and vehicles).
The majority of riders are seeking tracks for day rides and these can be shared with other recreational user groups, such as walkers or cyclists. Overnight camping may be in demand for riders travelling outside the area. Any facility for horse riding should be separated from campers and other potentially busy locations.
Minimum facilities required are: o Quiet locations to ride, such as generally quiet four-wheel tracks or designated multi- use trails. o Signage on tracks – Code of Conduct, horse riders, walkers and bike riders only. o Parking areas for horse floats. o Shade for vehicles and horses. o Access to water and toilets.
Additional equine facilities may include fixed yards, though useful, are not necessary, as electric fencing is often carried by those requiring temporary yarding. Water access points for horses is also an important consideration, such as stream-side access or troughs.
A ‘Code of Conduct’ was suggested as an ideal way of providing access to other groups on any ‘Multi-use’ track, generally walkers and bike riders.
Clubs would be prepared to offer volunteers to help with construction of any proposed yards or maintenance of tracks.
Proposed Infrastructure This Master Plan is recommending a number of facilities that will significantly benefit horse riding in the Buckland Valley.
o Buckland Gateway - horse float area o Western River Multi-use track o Bridge to Camp Flat, Multi-use Track o Camp Flat to Junction interpretive route o Junction to Clear multi-use track o Telecom multi-use track
See section 10 for detailed analysis and recommendations.
Should funding and opportunities become available for the creation of all these tracks, a combined linear network of approximately 14km to give access to Clear Creek Track, giving a further 4.5km of track, giving a total distance of 18.5km of tracks readily accessible to horse riding. Riders could also potentially access Scotchman’s Creek Track to the Nelson Mine visitor area.
18 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
There are challenges for catering to the potential camping needs of horse riders during peak holiday times. The proposed multi-use track network is situated in the lower area of the Buckland Valley, where only two designated camping areas exist. This limits opportunities for camping with increasing capacity during peak times. Longer term monitoring and communications with horse riding groups are strongly recommended.
5.9. Fishing Recreational fishing offers many opportunities in the Buckland River. A Recreational Fishing Licence is required when fishing in, on, or next to Victorian waters.7 The Victorian Fisheries Authority actively stock the rivers of north east Victoria and promote recreational fishing, with four specific sites highlighted in the Buckland River: • Buckland Bridge • Ah Young’s Camping Area • Camp Flat • Buckland Junction Bridge
The proposed multi-use tracks for the Buckland Valley will significantly benefit anglers, providing access to greater area of access to river frontage.
5.10. Hunting Recreational hunting has occurred in the Buckland Valley for many years. In the past, hunters have targeted feral, non-native species, such as rabbits and foxes, and in recent decades an increasing number of deer. A rise in deer populations has seen an increase in this mode of hunting, usually by ‘stalking’ and ‘hound-hunting’ methods. Hunters must hold a current Firearms Licence as well as a Game Licence, which must be endorsed for the types of game. The Game Management Authority oversee the latter.
Hunters are generally self-sufficient in terms of recreational facilities, being able to use facilities of the designated camping areas when staying overnight.
Provisions should be included in general forest user signage content, notifying other recreational users, that licenced hunting is permitted in the valley.
7 For Licence exemptions see; https://vfa.vic.gov.au/recreational-fishing/fishing-licence
19 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
5.11. Prospecting Prospecting for gold has been a long-time recreational activity in the Buckland Valley. Panning and metal detecting are the usual modes of recreational fossicking. A ‘Miners Right’ is required for recreational prospecting in Victoria. Earth Resources are the overseeing authority for prospecting and fossicking in Victoria.
The state government and Earth Resources has recently produced a Guide to Recreational Prospecting in Victoria.8 The guide contains specific information about prospecting and where recreational prospecting is permitted in state forest and within designated areas within national, state, historic and heritage parks.
Any disturbance to historic sites and archaeological values is not permitted under the Victorian Heritage Act, 2017.
5.12. Bike Riding Bike riding and mountain bike riding in State forests is a popular recreational activity. Mountain bike and general bike riding infrastructure are well represented in north east Victoria. It is not the purpose of this Master Plan to propose trails or tracks specifically dedicated to mountain bike riding or cycling.
The proposals to create tracks which are multi-use and available to also horse riders and walkers, will create many kilometres of ridable track if implemented.
Proposed routes that will be suitable for bike-riding include: o Western River Multi-use track (sections 1 and possibly 2) o Bridge to Camp Flat, Multi-use Track (sections 2, 3 and 4) o Camp Flat to Junction interpretive route o Junction to Clear Multi-use track o Telecom Multi-use track
Some of the challenges offered to the promotion of bike-riding in some localities includes: • Narrow routes, such as water-races or sideling tracks. • Steep banks adjacent to tracks, • Mine workings, such as cobble heaps, cliffs and mine shafts.
Other opportunities to promote bike riding may include Scotchman’s Creek track to the Nelson Mine site, and the Clear Creek Track. Both routes are of good level grades and offer good opportunities for riders.
Provisions should be included in general forest user signage content, identifying areas for bike riding.
5.13. Swimming and Water-play Swimming and general water-play are increasing popular activities and attractions of the Upper Ovens district stream catchment. Swimming, kayaking, tubing, general water-play and just relaxing on the banks, are important activities undertaken by local communities and visitors during the warmer months. Outside the mountains and the high plains, the freshwater streams are one of the most visited natural features in the district. Generally, most of the recreational activities undertaken in the Buckland Valley are either directly, or indirectly associated with the river.
Specific improvements associated with water-based activities, include provision for general accessibility to the riverbanks and streams. Recommendations are also suggested for
8 The Guide is available at: https://earthresources.vic.gov.au/licensing-approvals/fossicking
20 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
improvement in some key areas for greater access for visitors with levels of mobility impairments, at day visitor and some camping areas.
The proposed multi-use tracks for the Buckland Valley will significantly benefit all-stream users, providing access to greater area of river frontage.
Kayaking, canoeing and other means of river floating can also be done in certain conditions, where water depth and flows allow. Generally, however, during the summer holiday periods, the Buckland River, in the Master Plan area, is limited in this capacity.
5.14. Limited Mobility Access Providing opportunities for people with limited mobility or disabilities, is an important consideration of the Master Plan. The provision of simple and low-key solutions is readily achievable from an early planning stage. Selection of specific localities, where families, with members of limited mobility, can be provided with subtle adaptions to infrastructure to make their visit more comfortable. Simple facility adaptions could include: • hand-rails and accessibility aids on toilet facilities, • adapted picnic tables, • suitable access from parking areas to facilities, • gently graded ramps to key river access points.
All are simple solutions to provide limited mobility visitors with an opportunity to experience the Buckland Valley State Forest, particularly as limited opportunities currently exist in many public forest settings.
Key sites for inclusion of this infrastructure should be considered at: • the Bridge Gateway picnic area, • BV22.5 picnic area, • The Bend camping area.
5.15. Dog Use Domestic dogs are permitted in the Buckland Valley State Forest areas. Many dog owners take the opportunity to take their pets on their recreational outings.
Dog owners should be made aware of some basic rules and hazards along with other forest- user information at key signage information points.
Key point should include: • potential hazards, snakes, ticks and mineshafts, • keep both native wildlife and forest visitors’ safe, • keep dogs under control at all times.
Where dogs are taken on walking and multi-use tracks, particularly in association with horse riding, signage for appropriate dog behavior will be given.
5.16. Photography Nature photography is a popular recreational activity in the Buckland Valley. The natural landscape, rivers, trees, flora and fauna are all popular subjects. Mining landscapes, sluicing paddocks, stone-walls, and massive cobble-heaps have also been digitally captured. The proposed walking and multi-use tracks will increase accessibility for this activity.
21 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
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5.17. Table: Summary Recreational Activities and Opportunities Forest State Buckland Valley
Activity Location/Area Specific Current Facility improvements Challenges General Comments Facilities/Infrastructure
Camping Numerous locations in Good range of localities Potential creation of Campfire safety. Maintain areas for both both informal and and site types. Toilets and more designated Providing adequate designated and designated locations constructed fireplaces at camping areas. facilities in peak holidays informal camping areas. from Ah Youngs to designated camping Increasing of facilities times. Provision for Beveridge’s Station areas. such as toilets and information camping
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and Clear Creek. fireplaces in high use mode types. Rubbish DRAFT areas. Graveled roads, and human waste. river access points, visitor
Recreational Master information. Picnicking Informally the length of Minimal specific formal More specific day visitor Rubbish and human Presently this activity is the entire valley. facilities exist. Buckland picnic areas along the waste. under-catered for. Bridge area. entire length of the Valley. Tables, fireplaces and information. Walking The entire valley, No specific or dedicated Creation of dedicated Walkers using main Creation of tracks with stream flats tracks other than current multi-use tracks. roads and tracks and strong interpretive Plan
existing road and track Opportunities to visit hazards associated with themes. Creation of infrastructure. many historic and nature- vehicle use. tracks in association with based places. day and overnight visitor facilities. Improve access to a range of other recreational types. Car-touring, four- Existing road and track Informal touring routes, Formalisation of points of Speed restrictions and Providing adequate wheel driving, infrastructure. largely utilising published interest and provision for other forest users of information prior to
trail bike riding map and guides for the touring routes and roads and tracks arrival in the Valley. and Activities 5. Opportunities high country. historical information
Visiting historic The entire valley. Buckland cemetery, Provision for greater Illegal damage to Cultural connections – sites Chinese Memorial, Joss historic and cultural archaeological values, Taungurung and House Hill information and opening pilfering of relics, bottle descendants of Chinese of historic places for hunting and treasure miners continue to interpretation and hunting. connect. visitation. Nature The entire valley Existing road and track Greater increase in A low impact, and non- 23 Observation infrastructure for access. access with facility dependent
activity.
Activity Location/Area Specific Current Facility improvements Challenges General Comments Forest State Buckland Valley
24 Facilities/Infrastructure
establishment of walking and multi-use tracks. Horse riding Existing road and track No specific or dedicated Increasing or trail network Riders using main roads Creation of access infrastructure. tracks other than current through proposals. Float and tracks and hazards points and links to track existing road and track parking areas and associated with vehicle networks, river crossings, infrastructure. improved signage and use. etc. will need to be information. further examined in the detailed planning
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phase. DRAFT Fishing Streams and adjacent No specific or dedicated Creation of multi-use and Providing river access Discussions about re-
banks. tracks other than current walking tracks will points in designated stocking. Recreational Master existing road and track potentially provide camping areas during infrastructure. greater access. peak times. Hunting The entire valley. Access to hunting areas Provision of information Awareness of all user Main hunting season via the existing road and on hunting activities in groups and activity tends to be during track network. area. Hunting activities areas. cooler, winter months made aware of other not during peak warmer State Forest users. holiday periods. Recreational gold Streams and adjacent Existing infrastructure and Clarification on where Provision of accurate Clarification on where Plan
fossicking banks. access points. fossicking is permitted. information. fossicking is permitted. Swimming and Accessible streams Some swimming and river Specific access points, Providing river access water activities and adjacent banks. access locations are free from camping areas. points in designated located at the Bridge and Improved access in camping areas during at designated camping specific localities for peak times. areas. people with disabilities.
5. Activities and Activities 5. Opportunities
Activity Location/Area Specific Current Facility improvements Challenges General Comments Forest State Buckland Valley Facilities/Infrastructure
Cycling, Existing road and track Existing road and track Provide provision for Shared or multi-use Provision for downhill or mountain bike infrastructure. infrastructure more passive mountain bike tracks, horses, walkers specialized mountain riding specifically around riding for families along and cyclist code of bike track is not designated camping some of the proposed conduct. Give way to considered an option areas. Road-cycling interpretive routes and horses. for this Plan. Well occurs outside this Plan on multi-use trails. maintained and the lower sections of the excellent facilities 9 are Buckland Valley Road on located at many local
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the sealed section to the centres. DRAFT Buckland Bridge. The entire valley. Dogs are permitted in the Keep both native wildlife Be aware of snakes, Consideration for other Domestic dogs Recreational Master Buckland Valley State and forest visitors’ safe. ticks and mine shafts. forest users, particularly Forest. Keep dogs under control horse riders along at all times. narrow tracks. Orienteering and The entire valley. Existing road and track May be enhanced with Off-track navigation can rogaining infrastructure for access. the creation of multi-use be dangerous; mine tracks. shafts and banks. Cultural The entire valley. Descendants of the Recognition of different Cultural connections – Connections Taungurung have Chinese miners, including cultural groups Taungurung Traditional Plan
important connections the Chinese Australian connection to the Owners and to the entire Valley, Family Historians of Buckland Valley. descendants of Chinese and its connection Victoria (CAFHOV), Provision for more miners continue to with Mount Buffalo. Buckland Memorial stele, general information on connect to the valley for adjacent to cemetery these and other spiritual, ceremonial or and the See Yup Society important cultural other traditional reasons. memorial in the Chinese connections to the section of the Buckland Buckland Valley.
cemetery. and Activities 5. Opportunities
9 Most parts with along the valley floor of the Buckland valley do not have mobile phone coverage. In case of emergency visitors may widh to bring a satellite 25 phone or a Personal Locator beacon (PLB). The introduction of high-risk activities into the Buckland Valley would require development of significant public risk
and emergency response mitigation policies.
Forest State Buckland Valley
26
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DRAFT
Recreational Master
Plan
5. Activities and Activities 5. Opportunities
Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
The Junction. (Ritchie family – Buckland Valley Goldfield)
5.18. Commercial Activities In recent decades, and since the decline of historic mining and associated activities, the upper reaches of the State forest have also been the scene of varied commercial activities, including cattle grazing, mineral exploration and gold mining, apiarist, whilst freehold portions of the upper valley cater to a range of agricultural pursuits.
Grazing - A grazing licence is currently held over the Buckland Valley State Forest. Cattle stocking rates vary and are largely confined to the grassy flats of the valley floor. Grazing and the various recreational activities have minimal impact upon each other. New visitors to the area should be made aware of cattle grazing activities. Drivers on windy roads should be made aware stock may be on roads.
Mineral Exploration – A mineral exploration licence is held over areas of the Buckland Valley State Forest. Exploration activities and visitor activities in the valley are unlikely to impact upon each other. Exploration companies have an obligation to secure and give notice of works in public areas. All works must consider protection of Traditional Owner, natural, heritage10 and recreational values.
Apiculture – Apiary (bee keeping) sites on public land is permitted under licence or permit. Apiculture must consider other users of public land, including recreation and tourism users and uses.
5.19. Recreational Based Commercial Opportunities When considering improvements or placement of new recreational facilities, commercial operations should be considered. The tourism service industry is an important part of local economies. Nature-based tourism operators in the region are constantly looking for new opportunities to provide customers with unique experiences. Consideration for physical adaptions to facilities to cater for slightly larger groups or small buses. Opportunities also may arise to align with regionally themed cultural or nature themed trails.
5.20. Education and Research The Buckland Valley provides opportunities for research and education in many aspects of cultural and natural heritage. Research programs and studies may provide benefits to the long-term interpretation and presentation of aspects of the Buckland Valley. Research projects by agencies and institutions may also utilise and benefit from existing and proposed facilities in this Plan.
10 This also important, particularly in association with the Indigenous cultural heritage and goldfield’s heritage
27 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 5. Activities and Opportunities
28 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
6. Camping
The Buckland Valley State forest has long been established as an important and informal recreational area. An ad-hoc evolution of facilities has occurred over the decades. In more recent years, upgrades have greatly improved camping facilities.
Camping in the Buckland Valley State Forest is about ‘bush’ camping. Simple camping, where the experience is about ‘getting back to nature’, where basic amenities are provided, such as non-flushing toilets, fireplaces11 and maintained camping areas.
Generally, campers are happy to relax in a quiet camp setting, explore the forest road network by vehicle, enjoy a walk along a quiet track, or spend some time by the river fishing, swimming or just paddling about.
▪ Fees and Booking There are no fees, passes or booking requirements associated with camping in the Buckland Valley State Forest. This approach to ‘free’ camping and recreational use in the valley will be maintained.
No specific camping sites have been laid-out or allocated in any of the designated camping areas. Feedback has strongly suggested formalisation of specific sites would greatly detract from the overall camping experience in the valley. Logistics for booking and establishing sites would require vast resourcing, as well as ongoing administration and maintenance cost. It is intended to maintain the ‘first-in’12 approach to camping, particularly given the considerable opportunities for camping in the valley.
▪ Drinking Water It is not proposed to provide potable water. Non-potable water is generally taken from the river and boiled for at least 10 minutes before drinking. Some campers bring their own drinking water.
▪ Designated Camping Areas In recent years the larger camping areas within the State Forest were formalised by the then Department of Sustainability and Environment to assist with visitor access and management of the sites. Each area was identified with a geographic place or locality name. The
11 Wood-fired, wood not supplied. 12 One feedback response identified, ‘ghost-camping’ where a camp site is set up to claim a prime location, left unattended the days leading up to busy periods. This can happen in many contexts and is a challenging behavior to regulate. The Buckland Valley, does fortunately, have many ’prime’ camping site opportunities.
29 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping majority of these names were reinstated historic place names, derived from the goldfield’s 13
era of the valley .
In 2020 significant improvements were made to each of the designated camping areas within the State forest. Among the improvements were: • establishment of pump-out tank toilets, • gravelling of main branch road surfaces, • hazardous tree monitoring program and removal were required, • placement of fireplaces.
Designated camping areas exist at: • Ah Youngs • Camp Flat • Shippen Flat • Leinster Flat • Good Hope Flat • Head Race flat • The Bend • Beveridge Station (Alpine National Park, currently no toilet amenities)
Specific camping sites are not laid out or defined within any of the designated or informal camping areas. This allows for flexibility of camping modes and the sizes of camping groups. Feedback strongly reflected that ‘open spaces’ were important, and that formalisation of camping sites would detract and limit the camping experience.
The range of landscapes and open spaces of each designated camping area lend themselves to various modes of camping and the diverse requirements of a range of camping party types. See table 6.6 for break down and analysis.
▪ Informal Camping Areas Informal camping locations have generally been established by campers over the years,with many informal camping areas found along the main Buckland River, or at Clear Creek. Informal camping areas are occupied when designated camping areas are full, or by campers seeking an even more self-sufficient experience.
Locations are not formally named or identified with signage. Access is generally not formed and, in many instances, four-wheel drive access is required. Locations are only randomly patrolled by DELWP staff.
▪ Site Access All the designated and informal camping areas within the Buckland Valley State Forest have direct vehicle, ‘drive-to’ access. Types of access can vary depending upon the camping area and location. All formal camping areas (excluding Camp Flat, on the south side of the river crossing) are accessible by two-wheel drives. Informal campsites generally require some level of four-wheel drive access.
▪ Camping Seasons The peak camping season is generally during the warmer months of the year from October through to May, with peak periods during long weekends and school holidays. The cooler off-season period of June to September, generally have lower visitation, with associated recreational activities generally confined to hunting and four-wheel driving.
13 These place names were formalised with signage and on maps in about 2005, in response to random and ad hoc placement by campers of temporary signs placed, and often left, at entry points to camping areas.
30 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
▪ Camping Guidelines All users of designated or informal camping areas are asked to observe some basic guidelines:14 • Camp at least 20 metres form any stream. • Use toilets where they are provided. In areas without toilets, bury toilet waste at least 100 metres away from campsites and watercourses. • All native plants and animals are protected. Do not cut down or damage standing trees or vegetation. • Take your rubbish home. • Where possible, use a lightweight stove for cooking. If you must build a fire, please follow the fire regulations, be conservative in your use of fuel, and ensure your fire is completely out before you leave.
Campfire behavior is one of DELWP greatest challenges with campers within the State Forest. Restrictions apply to the use of campfires and barbeques in Victoria. These restrictions are important to reduce the chance of bushfire which could result in loss of life and property. They are actively enforced, and penalties apply for non-compliance. During the Fire Danger Period, when fire restrictions are in force, campfires are patrolled by DELWP staff. Remoter sites provide logistical challenges both for inspections and in emergency evacuation scenarios.
▪ Proposed additional designated camping area A new designated camping area, BV19, is proposed at an area historically known during the goldfield’s era as New Chum Flat. This location is readily accessed from the Buckland Valley Road near the BV19km marker. The locality has good river access and well-shaded areas beneath native forest and false acacia trees. It also has potential access to the proposed Shippen-Leinster multi-use Track. It would provide a more private and intimate camping areas for smaller groups.
14 Taken from Forest Fire Management Victoria website: http://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/recreational- activities/walking-and-camping
31 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
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6.1. Table: Summary Designated Camping Areas and Infrastructure Forest State Buckland Valley
Camping Brief Description River Accessibility Shade Dust the the
Area
Area Area
Bridge
Toilets places
Approx. Approx.
from from
Distance Distance
available available
Formal Fire Formal to camping to Ah Youngs Traditionally the most popular and Via one main pedestrian track, Some shade, Minor dust issues. Some Flat accessible of the camping 5.8km 3 acres 4 1 approx. 150m from the north large open potential for provision of locations. The first of the end of camping areas. area. screening.
designated camping areas with a Another foot track in the SE –
toilet facility. Largely open area corner. Good water-play DRAFT suitable for larger groups and opportunities.
larger modes of camping. Recreational Master Camp Flat Located at an original crossing of Good river access at many Lightly Minor, not adjacent to the the upper Buckland Valley Road. 7.5km Current: 2 1 points, with swimming and forested with Buckland Valley Rd. Currently two camping areas exist 2 acres water play opportunities. good shade. on either side of the river. The Proposed southern side being the larger and 1.7 more suitable location. Suitable for medium, 4WD modes of camping. acres First of the upper-most camping Some steep banks provide Lightly Vegetation screening along
Shippen Flat Plan areas. Through road offers good 17km 6.5 2 1 challenges of access. Pleasant forested with road would reduce dust.
access to a range of medium types acres canyon-like appearance. good shade. of camping, both 2WD & 4WD. Good water-play opportunities. BV19 Small flat between river and road, Good general access to river. Lightly Vegetation screening along Proposed partially open and lightly timbered 18.8km 2.5 0 0 Generally shallow. forested with road would reduce dust. flat. Offering private camping acres good shade. areas between natural vegetation screens. Suitable for medium 2WD & 4WD modes of camping. Leinster Flat Large open flat adjacent to the Good general access to river. Mostly open, Vegetation screening along road, with a smaller lightly timbered 19.5km 5 acres 2 1 Short bank to descend. some shade road would reduce dust. flat alongside the river. Suitable for Generally shallow. around medium 2WD & 4WD modes of perimeter of camping. flat. Good Hope The largest of the upper camping Good general access to river. Generally, Minor, natural vegetation Flat areas within the State Forest. 20km 12.5 4 1 Generally shallow. lightly screening adjacent to the Suitable for medium 2WD & 4WD acres forested with Buckland Valley Road. modes of camping. good shade
6. Camping6. Head Race Lightly forested with large open 21.7km 5.2 3 1 Good general access to river. Generally, Minor, existing natural Flat areas. Suitable for medium 2WD & acres Generally shallow. lightly vegetation screening 4WD modes of camping. forested with between the Buckland Valley
33 good shade. Road.
Forest State Buckland Valley
34
Camping Brief Description River Accessibility Shade Dust the the
Area
Area Area
Bridge
Toilets places
Approx. Approx.
from from
Distance Distance
available available
Formal Fire Formal to camping to The Bend Lightly timbered with small open Good access at the north end Generally, Minor, existing natural areas suited for smaller groups. 25.7km 4.3 5 1 of the camp, short steep bank lightly vegetation screening Suitable for medium 2WD & 4WD acres at the south end. forested with between the Buckland Valley modes of camping. good shade. Road.
Beveridge’s The largest of camping areas in the Good general access to river. Generally, Minor, existing natural
Buckland Valley. Located in the 27km 20 acres Some short steep banks. lightly vegetation screening – Station Alpine National Park. Suitable for Generally shallow. forested with between the Buckland Valley DRAFT medium 2WD & 4WD modes of good shade. Road. camping. Popular with 4WD clubs.
Recreational Master
Plan
6. Camping6.
Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
6.2. Informal camping areas Many informal camping areas currently exist in the valley. It is generally considered these should remain either as overflow areas when designated camping areas are full, or, for campers wishing to be more remote or have an independent experience, or their camping style requires a more wilderness experience.
Clear Creek has six informal camping areas. The location, off the main Buckland Valley Road, lends itself to a remoter, four-wheel drive camping.
The remoter and more inaccessible informal areas do create management challenges. This is mostly due to monitoring and campfire inspections and risk associated with access during emergency evacuation scenarios, particularly during high fire danger periods. Also, during wet periods, when areas on the eastern side of the river can become inaccessible to sudden rises in river height. Campers should be informed that during periods of high fire danger, or periods of extreme wet weather, camping in these areas can be dangerous. This could be addressed with simple informative signage at the two river crossing locations at Camp Flat and at Clear Creek. Most informal camping areas leading directly off the main Buckland Valley Road are generally accessible to patrolling DELWP staff should an emergency situation arise.
DELWP will continue to regularly monitor these areas and make assessments of impacts from camping and user behavior. Some minor works to improve site access, visitor safety, and the protection of heritage and environmental values will be considered. No expansion of existing informal camping areas, or the creation of new informal camping areas will be permitted.
6.3. Non-camping areas There are a number of locations within the Buckland Valley State Forest where camping should be excluded or discouraged for a number of reasons: • Proximity to residential areas. • Sensitive Traditional Owners values. • Sensitive environmental values. • Sensitive archaeological values. • Greater opportunities for day visitation. • Greater opportunities for interpretation.
Areas that currently are used for informal camping, and should be excluded from camping, include: • North of the Buckland Bridge – close to residential areas (camping already excluded). • Between the Buckland Bridge and Ah Youngs – this general area is in close proximity to residential areas and has greater values for day visitation due to its relative ease and proximity to access. • Paulussey’s battery site – this locality has sensitive archaeological values, it also has high interpretation opportunities. The location’s close proximity to the river also provides environmental challenges associated with overnight camping.
35 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
6.4. Camping Amenities and Infrastructure
Amenities associated with designated camping areas are generally quite simple in design and function, yet greatly improve the visitor experience and minimize maintenance for land managers, whilst creating a semi-formal and tidy setting.
Installation of basic facilities can greatly assist in the mitigation of otherwise poor, or even illegal user behavior, providing the opportunity for people to do the right thing and behave in an appropriate way.
Fireplaces – creating simple designated fireplaces, assists with allocating specific camping areas within a site. They can mitigate the creation of random fire-scars from ad hoc creation of campfires. Fireplaces should be of a concrete base approximately 1.2 metres square and 150mm above the natural ground surface. An outer steel rim or approximately 900mm in diameter concreted into the base and protruding to a height of approximately 200mm. Two or three breaks in the rim of 250mm facilitate the placement of logs, drainage, placement of cooking utensils and cleaning of ash.15
Toilets – the recent provision of non-flushing, long-drop toilets have substantially improved the quality of the camping experience in the Buckland. They provide for a cleaner and healthier environment and have significantly reduced the amount of human faeces and toilet paper scattered in the vegetation at the verges of camping areas. The addition of toilets has greatly increased the appeal to a new and wider audience of visitors. Toilets are not provided with toilet paper and may not necessarily have hand-washing facilities. 16
Provision for double, or back-to-back toilets should be considered in any future installations.
Graveled road surfaces – the forming of main access roads with gravel helps to provide form, and delineate camping areas. It reduces the creation of random vehicle tracks which inhibit grass growth and can create furrows and mud holes. Placement of crushed rock creates a road surface that also minimizes dust.
Vegetation Screens – creation of vegetation screen may assist with delineating camping spaces and create some level of privacy within camping areas. Screens of vegetation, particularly between camping areas and the Buckland Valley Road may reduce issues with dust and noise during dry and busy periods.
15 The installation of swing-arm and hot-plate cranes at fireplaces, is often a useful addition, however such features are the target of vandalism, particularly in remoter camping areas. Such additional infrastructure would be more beneficial to high-use day-visitor areas. 16 Hand-sanitizer has been provided at all toilets amenities during COVID. Hand-pumps are secured in a lockable box secured to the outside of the building.
36 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
Delineated zones/areas – provision for specific areas or zones can assist with overall quality of experience for campers. The use of bollards or large boulders to create small zones excluding camping, creating corridors, or access points to river/waterholes, trailheads or information signs. These small camp free zones allow use of these key areas to all visitors.
Information Signage – informing and giving knowledge in helping visitors to make the right choices. Information points should provide information on rules, regulations and codes of conduct. Information should also be provided outlining the facilities available in the State Forest. Temporary notice boards should be placed at toilet amenities.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges - With the potential introduction of walking and multi-use tracks on opposites side of the river, access considerations will need to made.
Types of river crossing can vary, and are dependent on many factors, some of which include: • types of intended traffic (pedestrian, cyclist, horse riders), • topography, • variations in river heights, depths and channel width, • approach/entry points, • spans or distances between points, • engineering requirements.
River crossing points or infrastructure types can also vary;
Fords: a shallow place with good footing where a stream may be crossed by wading or riding a bike, or horse crossing place. Approaches should be defined and even. Places too deep, or with high-stream flows should be avoided. River characteristic may vary seasonally.
Bridges: can be of many construction types, steel-truss bridges, steel-I- beam bridges and suspension/ swing bridges are generally the types that may be applicable.
Every location has its own set of circumstances and challenges. Each site will need to examined thoroughly as part of any preliminary planning process.
6.5. Rubbish and Waste Management There are no bins for rubbish provided in the Buckland Valley State Forest. DELWP’s general policy is for visitors in State Forests, is to ‘pack it in, pack it out’, and take their rubbish home.17
Challenges occur when rubbish is discarded illegally or inappropriately. Regularly, non- burnable rubbish is discarded in fireplaces, dumped in vegetation, or deposited in local residents’ bins. Information should be provided at the beginning of each holiday period notifying campers of Alpine Shire transfer stations, opening hours and fee schedules. The penalties and fines for illegal dumping should also be reiterated.
17 A rubbish point and skip were provided in the Buckland Valley by DSE a number of years ago for the use of campers. This facility proved costly, with illegal dumping of non-domestic waste, including furniture, car tyres, etc.
37 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
6.6. Camping Modes, Styles & Types
Within the Buckland valley, various types, or modes of camping are undertaken, from the simple canvas swag to a large self-contained, dual-axle caravans. More often than not campers are found in small groups or parties, requiring a greater area. The range of camping experience also varies, from beginner campers, setting out with a new camper trailer, to seasoned families, who have their specific camping spots and are familiar with their set-up routines. The types of campers are also varied; quiet lone-camper, families, groups of young adults celebrating an event, from four-wheel drive clubs, bird watching or horse riding groups.
There are several different categories or modes of camping that can be undertaken in the Buckland Valley. Each can vary significantly in the type of equipment and the context in which it is used. Modes can vary from; a simple tarp shelter and sleeping-bag in a remote informal camping setting or a luxury, fully self-contained caravan or motorhome in an open designated camping area. Some of the general categories of camping types found in the Buckland Valley are:
o Wilderness/Survival Camping – people looking to put their mental and physical skills to use, learning to live off-the-land in a wilderness setting, usually with the simplest and basic equipment and provisions. Growing in popularity, it is often undertaken in small organized groups. o Backpacking/Hiking – involves carrying your own gear, free from vehicle use. Walking from location to location over multiple days. o Bush Shelter – building a shelter from sticks and branches, with sleeping bag and mat on a small tarp on the ground. Often seen being used by scouting or adventure groups or younger members of a larger family group. o Tarp Shelter - using a waterproof tarp slung over a rope tied between trees or tent poles, with sleeping bag and a mat and tarp on the ground. This is a commonly seen type of camping amongst young adults, particularly those involved in outdoor education. o Swag/Bivvi-bag – variations on a canvas bag containing a mat and sleeping bag, easily rolled out for a quick set-up. Used by a broad range of campers. Sleeping under the stars and close to the fire, this is a popular type of camping. o Light-weight, Hiking tents – variations from cheap, single-skinned to expensive ultra-light-weight hiking tents. Usually quick and easy to set up in a range of environments. Simple way to camp suited to individuals, young couples or younger members of a large family group. o Large tents – variations in size, single up to multi-roomed. Often slightly longer to set up, generally in a formal camp setting. Suited to couples, or larger family groups. Can also be left on site whilst the car is used for touring locally. o Cycle Camping – as with hiking or backpacking, involves carrying your own gear on a bicycle and riding from location to location carrying light-weight gear. o Motorcycle Camping – similar to cycle camping though can be undertaken on road or trail bikes. Greater range and mobility of access during camping period. Can be done as single, base location camping or as a touring trip. o Campsite camping – usually reliance upon some basic facilities and amenities, such as cleared areas for camping, toilets, and access to water. o Two-wheel and Four-wheel drive camping – carrying larger quantity of equipment and passengers. Flexibility of using the campsite as a base whilst touring around the district. o Basic Van – unlike a campervan or motor home, usually a basic van with simple provisions for sleeping with very limited space. Provides some challenges of vacating site if touring or tripping into town.
38 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
o Roof-top Camping - pop-up tents on roof-tops of vehicles are a popular type of camping. Quick and easy to set-up. Provides some challenges of leaving site if touring or tripping into town. o Motorhomes or vans – a popular type of camping. Can range in style and size from small, lightweight vehicles with basic facilities, to large and heavy motor homes fully equipped with extras, such as toilet, bathroom and living areas. Less suitable for touring about once the camp is set up, though ideal if wanting to sit for a while and relax. o Camper-trailers – Another popular type of camping. Usually a lighter-weight version of caravan which can provide greater access into a range of sites that might be more challenging for larger caravans to access. Slightly slower to set up, depending on the model. Caravans can be left on-site whilst the car is used for touring locally. o Horse-floats – for campers wishing to take their horse camping for horse riding-based activities. o Caravans – easy to set-up, back-in and unhook. Caravans can range from simple single-axle, fitted out with a basic small kitchen and bedding, to dual axle self-contained, with expanding walls, multiple rooms toilet, bathroom and satellite-dish for television and internet service. Types can vary from park models to more rugged four-wheel drive versions with high clearance. Can also be left on site whilst the car is used for touring locally. o Buses – ranging in size buses can vary considerably. Providing access to buses is generally confined to clearance, maneuverability and suitable road access conditions. Provides some challenges of leaving site if touring or tripping into town. o Fifth Wheeler – a truck-style hitched van towed behind a larger vehicle with adequate towing capacity. Like a caravan, can vary greatly in size and fit out. Ideally suited to long-range freeway and not rough gravel roads. Can also be left on site whilst the vehicle is used for touring locally. o Seasonal Camping – usually camping is undertaken during the warmer months, however, some seasonal recreational activities, such as deer hunting, may be undertaken during cooler times of the year. Equipment taken may often more suited to winter camping.
The Buckland Valley is well suited to cater to a range of camping types, with the varying characteristics of each camping areas slightly more tailored to each of the character of camping style.
The following table gives an approximate indication of camping types and their suitability to specific designated camping areas in the Buckland Valley State Forest. The rating is generally subjective, however, for the purposes of this Master Plan, this analysis can assist with longer term planning decisions and promotion of specific camping areas.
39 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 6. Camping
40
Forest State Buckland Valley 6.7. Table: Summary, Designated Camping Areas and Camping Types
H – well suited, M- suited, L – not ideal, X – not suited
Designated Camping Areas
) Types of The General Comments
Ben
Camping
d
18
proposed Informal Camping areas
Ah Youngs Camp Flat Shippens BV19 Leinster Flat Good Hope Head Race Beveridge (
Wilderness Camping in proximity to others is not suited to this type of camping. –
X X X X X X X X L H
DRAFT Hiking L M M M M M M M M H Access for hike camping is challenging due to the distance of access. Hikers may generally be more suited to informal camping areas. Recreational Master Bush shelter X L L M L M M M M H This type of camping more suited to semi-forested areas with some understorey of wattle or tea-tree. Light Tarp shelter X L M H L L M H M H Represented largely on the availability of lightly forested areas, with some mid-storey of wattle and tea-tree. Swag L M M M M M M M M M Suitable for all camping areas, though not necessarily suited amidst large caravans and campers.
Light tent M H H H H H H H H H Versatility of size, suitable for most camping contexts. Plan Classed medium or low where there is little, or minimal large areas Large tent H M H M H H H H H L
of level ground available during peak holiday times. Van (2WD) H X H M H H H H H X Determined by access into site. Rooftop H M H H H H H H H M Largely determined whether or not on a 4WD vehicle. Medium Camper H M H M H H H H H M Largely dependent on whether the towing vehicle and the trailer trailer are 4WD capacity. Motorhome H X M L M M M L M X Based on challenges of distance and access into camping areas. Horse float H X L L M M M L H L Largely based on considerations on available area during peak times. Availability of areas away from other campers. Proximity to tracks and multi-use tracks for horse riding. Caravan H X M L M M M L M X Limitations of access and availability of potential open areas
Heavy during peak times. Bus H X M X M M M M L X Based on the general range of largeness and limitations of access. Fifth wheeler Based on challenges of access to more distant camping areas and
H X M L L M L X X Camping6. movability around sites, particularly semi-forested locations.
41
18 Classification is based on the proposal that only the south side of the river is for designated camping. Vehicle access across the ford/river crossing would limit the vehicle types
using the crossing, as well as limitations during wet periods of high river levels.
Forest State Buckland Valley 42
–
DRAFT
Recreational Master
Plan
6. Camping6.
Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7. Designated Camping Areas - Description and Proposals The following sections of the Master Plan outline the recommendations to existing and proposed recreational infrastructure in a site gazetteer format. This allows for a simple break- down of information in a directory format in relation to a specific geographic location.
Each locality and proposal is shown on the attached Map Sheets, and a guide to the legend and geographic referencing is given at the beginning of this document.
43 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
44 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.1. Ah Young’s Flat LOCATION: Situated on the eastern side of the Buckland Valley Road. The first designated site from the township of Porepunkah. See Map Sheet 1.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
5.8km 3 acres 1 4
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The location was occupied from the earliest months of the gold rush, being in close proximity to the first gold finds in the valley, at Maguire’s Point. The site would have been the location of residential and commercial business from the beginnings of the goldfield. The locality has probably been known by many names, though many references refer to it as Ah Young’s, after Henry Ah Young, who lived on the flat and worked claims nearby.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The closest of the designated camping areas. It has had a basic toilet for a number of years and is established as the most popular and well used of all the Buckland Valley sites. It is used by a range of camping types, including large campervan and caravans. It is a large open grassy area with some verges of shady mature forest. It is clearly visible from the approaching Buckland Valley Road, from which it is mostly separated from by a deep sluicing paddock for most of its length. On the riverside, it is bound by deep gold sluice working and cobble heaps. At the north-east corner is an old management road which provides good access to the river, a distance of approximately 150 metres. To the south is a large open flat, that may be considered for very long-term expansion. It contains important archaeological values, historic features and mine shafts.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The open spaces and minimal obstructions are well suited to large camping types, such as buses, two-wheel drive motorhomes, fifth wheelers and caravans of all sizes. Its proximity to sealed roads is an advantage for larger vehicles, avoiding using the upper more windy and narrow roads above Camp Flat.
RIVER ACCESS: The stretch of the river accessible to the site is also very picturesque and offers good river- play activities in the warmer months. If relying on water for camping purposes, such as domestic use or campfire extinguishing, water is available approximately 150 metres.
Existing Recreational Activities: This location is regularly used by campers as an economic touring base whilst exploring the surrounding district, particularly locations such as Mount Buffalo and Bright. Large groups also regularly use the site, such as clubs, family groups, work and social connections celebrating special events, anniversaries, or end of season parties.
45 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
Toilets: Consideration for adaption to double or back-to-back amenity.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
Vegetation Screens: Some provision for screening between road and camping area would reduce dust and improve privacy from road.
Information Signage: Provision for information signage.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Access across the river, in conjunction with proposed walking track routes, would be ideal. Some challenges occur with access to adequate narrow points of the river. Some spanning opportunities exist downstream. Bridge locations should be explored in more detail with any proposed Works Plan for the upgrading of track routes. An old ford/vehicle crossing could also be upgraded and made suitable for horse riders.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use tracks. This locality has direct connection to the proposed Telecom multi-use track and access across the river to the Bridge – Camp Flat multi-use track. The height of the camping areas lends itself to direct connection with any proposed multi-use track network.
46 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.2. Camp Flat LOCATION: Situated on both sides of the Buckland River at the ford crossing of the original section of the Buckland Road. The second of the lower designated sites from the township of Porepunkah. The next designated camping area is Shippen’s Flat, 10kms further up the valley. See Map Sheet 2 . Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping 7.5km Current – 2 acres 1 2 Proposed - 1.7 acres
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Location has been historically known by a number of names, including in recent decades ‘The 12-Mile’, whilst in goldfield’s era, known as the ‘The Camp’, St Giles and other names. The location was the first main settlement area during the gold rush to the Buckland Valley in 1853. It was the principal commercial and government administration area.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site presently consists of camping areas on both sides of the river. It is proposed to keep the north-west side of the river exclusive to day visitation, and the flat on the southern side of the river crossing for camping. The camping area is lightly forested and has good access to the river, with several good swimming holes.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: Due to the relatively limited space and seasonal variations of the river ford/crossing, the site is generally suited to four-wheel drive vehicles and camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is not suitable for two-wheel drives, caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc.
RIVER ACCESS: Several points along the river offer good access, with a range of gentle pebble beaches and deeper water holes.
Existing Recreational Activities: Camp Flat currently offers ample river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, general water-play. Several walking opportunities also exist, the first along the Old Buckland Road to the Junction is a popular route. The second is a four-wheel drive track along the eastern side of the river, heading back down the valley. Both of these routes are proposed for upgrades.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
Toilets: Adequate at present, review use during peak times. Consideration for adaption to double or back-to-back amenity.
47 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present. Assess camping area layout during peak times over next couple of years.
Vegetation Screens: Not recommended. Dust suppression and privacy not an issue in the context of Camp Flat.
Zones and Access Points: Consideration of one or two access, camp-free, corridors at each end of the main camping areas.
Information Signage: Provision for information and historical interpretive signage.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Access across the river, in conjunction with proposed walking track routes would be ideal. Some challenges occur with access to adequate narrow points of the river. Spanning opportunities exist downstream. Bridge locations should be explored in more detail with any proposed Works Plan for the upgrading of track routes.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use tracks. Camp Flat is well suited to a range of walks and walking routes. Its location as an overnight and day visitation area provides good opportunity short to mid-length walks.
48 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.3. Shippen’s Flat LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. The first of the upper camping areas above the Junction. See Map Sheet 5.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
17km 6.5 acres 1 2
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
This location has been historically known as Shippen’s Flat, after a miners’ right residence over the locality was held by George Shippen for possibly as long as 43 years (from the late 1850s? until his death in 1899).
References: Talbot, D. Grave Recollections, 2004. Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004. Ovens & Murray Advertiser, 25th March 1899, Obituary G. Shippen
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site consists of camping areas amidst open and lightly timbered flat. The camping area is generally visible from the Buckland Valley Road. A through road offers good access to a range of vehicle types and sizes.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively open spaces are suited to medium size camping types, such as campervans, smaller sized caravans, and camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is generally not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year. With limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all areas.
RIVER ACCESS: Generally river access is via a relatively steep bank, the bedrock flat of the camping area forms a small picturesque canyon-like stretch of river. This natural characteristic offers a diverse range of river conditions from shallow rapids to deeper holes for swimming and fishing.
Existing Recreational Activities: Shippen’s Flat currently offers ample river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, general water play.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
Toilets: Adequate at present, review use during peak times. Consideration for adaption to double or back-to-back amenity.
49 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present. Assess camping area layout during peak times over next couple of years.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression may be a consideration for the site, with some screening along the open stretch of Buckland valley Road which passes directly alongside the site.
Zones and Access Points: Consideration of one or two access, camp-free, corridors at each end of the main camping areas.
Information Signage: Provision for information signage. Both interpretive and forest user information. George Shippen interpretation – the site offers a good opportunity to interpret social history of an individual and family who lived in the Buckland Valley for many decades.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Access across the river, in conjunction with proposed walking track routes, would be ideal. Some locations occur with adequate narrow points of the river. Footbridge locations could be explored in more detail with any proposed Works Plan for the detailed proposal of track routes in the vicinity.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use tracks. Shippen’s Flat is well suited to an eastern river walk, linking Leinster and Good Hope Flats walks. Longer term, a walk on the western side of the Buckland Valley Road, would form a return or loop track. Its position, in close proximity to Leinster, Good Hope and the proposed site at BV19km, provide good opportunities for high level of use for any proposed walking and multi-use tracks.
Miners Right School Site – interpretation site. A short walk to the former site of the Miners Right, offers opportunity form campers to experience social aspects of the goldfield’s history.
50 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.4. BV19 (Proposed New Area) LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. The second of the upper camping areas, above the Junction. See Map Sheet 5.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
18.8km 2.5 acres 0 0
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
This locality, opposite New Chum Gully, was possibly referred to historically as New Chum Flat. It would have been a residential area for workers associated with the quartz reef mines in the area. Evidence of building sites and non-native trees exist on the flat.
References: Talbot, D. grave Recollections, 2004. Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: Site is on a small flat between the river and road. The open and lightly timbered flat is divided by natural screens of vegetation that provide private camping areas for small groups and individual camping parties.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively small open spaces, with some mature trees are suited to medium to smaller sized camping types, such as small camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year. With limitations during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed-gravel road.
RIVER ACCESS: Several points offer ready access to the river. The river is largely shallow with an absence of deeper water holes.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Provision for formal fireplaces.
Toilets: None – Recommended. Upgrade in conjunction with similar amenity upgrades/installations.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Provide graveled surface when similar works are being undertaken in vicinity.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression may be a consideration for the site, with some screening along the open stretch of Buckland valley Road that passes directly alongside the site.
Information Signage: Provision for information signage.
51 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Access across the river, in conjunction with proposed walking track routes would be ideal. Given the smaller capacity of this camping area, a ford crossing only would initially be recommended.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use tracks.
BV19 camping area is well suited to an eastern river walk linking with Leinster and Good Hope Flats walks. Longer term a walk on the western side of the Buckland Valley Road, would form a good return or loop track. Its position, in close proximity to Leinster and Good Hope Flat, provide good opportunities for high level of use for any proposed walking and multi-use tracks.
Geographic Place Naming Traditional Owner opportunities.
52 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.5. Leinster Flat LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. The third of the upper formal camping areas, above the Junction. See Map Sheet 5.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
19.5km 5 acres 1 2
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The location has been historically known as Leinster Flat, after the Leinster reef mine, associated stamp mill and mining settlement. The Leinster reef was discovered in 1869 with the Alps Quartz Mining Company formed to work the mine in 1870. A 12-head, waterwheel driven battery was erected below the mine, immediately above the present-day Buckland Valley Road. A substantial settlement developed on the flat below the mine, supporting the miners and their families.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site consists of an upper and a lower camping areas amidst an open and lightly timbered flat. The lower portion provides access to the river, whilst the upper flat is largely open. The camping areas is generally visible from the Buckland Valley Road.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively open spaces, with some mature trees, are suited to medium size camping types, such as campervans, smaller sized caravans, and camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is generally not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year. With limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed-gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all areas.
RIVER ACCESS: Situated on a gentle bend in the river, generally access is good with a short bank to descend.
Existing Recreational Activities: Leinster Flat currently offers ample river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, swimming, general water-play.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
Toilets: Adequate at present.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
53 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression may be a consideration for the site, with some screening along the open stretch of Buckland valley Road that passed directly alongside the site.
Zones and Access Points: Creation of one or two access points at each end of the camping area.
Information Signage: Provision for information signage. Both interpretive and forest user information. Leinster Flat interpretation – the site offers a good opportunity to interpret an encompassing quartz reef goldfields history of the locality. From the reef mine workings, battery site and associated water race. Social aspects are reflected in the historical record associated with the resident miners’ families on the site.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Foot bridge locations could be explored in more detail with any proposed Works Plan for the detailed proposal of track routes in the vicinity.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use trail. Leinster Flat is well suited to an eastern river walk linking with Leinster and Good Hope Flats walks. Longer term a walk on the western side of the Buckland valley Road, would form a good return or loop track. Its position, in close proximity to Shippen’s, Good Hope and the proposed BV19km, provide good opportunities for high level of use for any proposed walking and multi-use tracks.
Leinster Stamp Mill (battery) Site – interpretation site. A short walk to the former site of the Stamp battery, offers opportunity form campers to experience an aspect of the goldfield’s history.
54 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.6. Good Hope Flat LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. See Map Sheet 5.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
20km 12.5 acres 1 4
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The locality is known as Good Hope Flat, after a nearby quartz mine working. The flat would have been occupied by miners associated with nearby quartz reef mines and the scattering of small alluvial claims.
References: Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The camping area is the largest of the upper designated camping areas within the state forest. The flat is adjacent to a long stretch of the Buckland River, which at its northern end takes a sharp 90 degree turn to the west. The site is lightly forested with large open areas. At the southern end a ‘through’ track, becomes rough and is not graveled, which is intended to deter/reduce vehicles cutting through the camping area.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively open spaces, with some of mature trees are suited to medium size camping types, such as campervans, smaller sized caravans, and camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is generally not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year, with limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed-gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all main areas.
RIVER ACCESS: Situated on a long stretch of the Buckland River, access is generally good. An access point has been created at the northern end, on a sharp bend in the river (the main swimming hole), with the placement of large rocks. Some campers still camp on the river side of this exclusion area. Signage may need to be placed here, notifying no camping in specific area, open for public river access. The long stretch of river is largely shallow with an absence of deeper water holes.
Existing Recreational Activities: Good Hope Flat currently offers general river based recreational opportunities, including fishing and general water play.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
55 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Picnic Tables: Placement of one or two picnic tables at the bend in the river to improve this no camping area as a shared space.
Toilets: Adequate at present, review use during peak times.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression is not really a consideration for the area. The site is generally below the level of the road and has some existing trees and vegetation along the roadside. Planting of trees and shrubs to landscape around the toilet is recommended.
Zones and Access Points: Creation of additional access points and introduction of advisory signage about exclusion of camping and access point.
Information Signage: Provision for information signage. Both interpretive and forest user information.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Foot bridge locations could be explored in more detail with any proposed Works Plan for the detailed proposal of track routes in the vicinity.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS See separate section for detail on proposed walks and multi-use trails. Good Hope Flat is well suited to an eastern river walk linking with Leinster and Shippen flats walks. Longer term a walk on the western side of the Buckland valley Road would form a good return or loop track. Its position, in close proximity to Leinster, Shippen and the proposed site BV19km, provide good opportunities for high level of use for any proposed walking and multi-use tracks.
56 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.7. Head Race Flat LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. See Map Sheet 5.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
21.7km 5.2 acres 1 3
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Location is known as Head Race Flat, after an abandoned water-race which is one the upper most water races in the Buckland valley.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site is lightly timbered with large open areas situated along a gentle bend in the Buckland River. A graveled road runs along the centre of the site with a turnaround area towards the end of the flat.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively open spaces, with some of mature trees are suited to medium size camping types, such as campervans, smaller sized caravans, and camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is generally not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year with limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed-gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all main areas.
RIVER ACCESS: Situated on a gentle bend of the Buckland River, access is generally good
Existing Recreational Activities: Head Race Flat currently offers general river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, and general water-play.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Provision for more formal fireplaces.
Toilets: Adequate at present, review use during peak times.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression is not really a consideration for the site. The site is generally below the level of the road and has some existing trees and vegetation along the roadside.
Zones and Access Points: Consideration of one or two access, camp-free, corridors at each end of the main camping areas.
57 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Information Signage: Provision for forest user information signage.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Not applicable, as no recreational walking tracks are proposed for this camping area.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS No walking or Multi-use tracks are proposed for this camping area.
58 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.8. The Bend LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. See Map Sheet 6.
Land Status: Buckland Valley State Forest
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
25.7km 4.3 acres 1 5
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Location is known as ‘The Bend’, after a sharp bend in the Buckland River.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site is lightly timbered with small open areas and situated along a sharp bend in the Buckland River. The site is loosely divided into a north and south section divided by a screen of mature eucalypt trees and understorey. A graveled road runs along the western side of the site.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively small open spaces with some mature trees are suited to medium to smaller sized camping types, such as small camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year with limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all main areas.
RIVER ACCESS: the north section of the camp has generally good access to the river. The upper section has a short steep bank descending to the riverbank.
Existing Recreational Activities: The Bend currently offers general river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, and general water-play.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Adequate provision.
Toilets: Adequate at present, review use during peak times. It has been noted this toilet facility is being used by campers from Beveridge’s Station camping area.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression is not really a consideration for the site. The site is generally below the level of the road and has some existing trees and vegetation along the roadside.
Zones and Access Points: General minor improvements to river access points.
59 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Limited Mobility Access: Provisions should be made to create simple solutions for limited mobility access at this camping area. A simple ramp structure to provide access to the river and adaption of toilet facilities with the inclusion of hand-rails, etc.
Information Signage: Provision for basic forest user information signage.
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Not applicable, as no recreational walking tracks are proposed for this camping area.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS No walking or Multi-use tracks are proposed for this camping area.
60 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
7.9. Beveridge’s Station LOCATION: Situated on the western side of the Buckland River and immediately accessible from the Buckland Valley Road. The site is located in the Alpine National Park. See Map Sheet 6.
Land Status: Alpine National Park
Distance from Approx. Area available Toilets Fireplaces BV Bridge for camping
27km 20 acres Nil 5?
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Location is known as Beveridge Station, named for the property adjoining to the north, which was originally known as Montana, and later called Beveridge’s Station.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The site is the largest of the Buckland Valley camping areas and is managed by Parks Victoria. The camping areas is situated on a lower river terrace, set back from the Buckland Valley Road. The camping area offers a good range of diversity.
PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPING: The relatively small open spaces with some of mature trees are suited to medium to smaller sized camping types, such as small camper trailers, tents or lighter styles of camping. The locality is not suitable for motorhomes, larger caravans, fifth wheelers, buses, etc. Generally suited to two–wheel drive access during drier times of the year with limitation during wet seasons, due to greater distance required to be travelled along unsealed-gravel road. Partially graveled road through site offers good access to all main areas. The area is also suited to large groups, such as four-wheel drive clubs.
RIVER ACCESS: The camping area generally good access to the river, with mostly short steep banks descending to the river.
Existing Recreational Activities: Beveridge’s Station currently offers general river based recreational opportunities, including fishing, and general water-play. The locality is also used by four-wheel drive clubs touring through the Alpine National Park.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
Fireplaces: Adequate provision at present.
Toilets: None at present. Suggestion to Parks Victoria for installation of some form of toilet amenity.
Graveled Road Surfaces: Adequate at present.
Vegetation Screens: Dust suppression is not a consideration for the site. The site is generally far away enough from the Selwyn Creek Road.
Information Signage: information shelter provided.
61 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 7. Camping Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
River Crossings/Pedestrian Bridges: Not applicable, as no recreational walking tracks are proposed for this camping area.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS No walking or Multi-use tracks are proposed for this camping area.
Some walking opportunities exist along the northern track access to the Pheasant Creek four- wheel drive track.
62 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions & Proposals
Consideration for day visitation in the Buckland Valley is an important part in the planning for recreation-based activities and associated facilities. Specific infrastructure for short-term or day visitation in presently well under-catered for. The only formal facility for day visitation is located at the Buckland Bridge.
Day visitation to the valley for recreational activities is undertaken by a range of people, from local communities to those visiting from outside the region. Activities undertaken by day trippers are slightly different to those of longer, overnight stays. Short-term visits will often involve a day or half day commitment. This may involve a stop to eat or have a picnic. Day- trippers to the area are often curious to see, or learn about the goldfield’s history of the locality, or experience the State forest. Repeat day-trippers, return with a more specific purpose such as for picnicking, visiting/researching historic sites such as the cemetery, fishing or other river-based activities, prospecting, hunting, horse riding or four-wheel driving activities.
Day visitors, particularly those not familiar with the area, may feel awkward about using the camping area facilities, particularly during peak times. In considering the establishment of day visitor areas, it is important to facilitate dedicated day facilities that excludes camping. Day facilities, particularly with interpretation points or provisions for particular activities, should be available to all forest users.
Selection Criteria The establishment of picnic/day visitor areas should consider the following general criteria: • Location and general access. • Provision for adequate parking for appropriate use of facility and associated activities for that activity zone. • Interpretation opportunities. • Potential for linking with proposed multi-use track networks. • No camping in vicinity of picnic areas
63 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.1. Buckland Bridge Gateway LOCATION: Buckland Valley Road, Buckland Bridge. See Map Sheet 1.
Distance from BV Bridge: 00km Approx. Area: 4+ acres
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: Buckland bridge area has seen many changes since European occupation. The site was used as a crossing place by the first wave of diggers during the gold rush of 1853. The locality may have also been an important Indigenous crossing place accessing the Buckland Valley, Mount Buffalo and the Buffalo valley via Goldie’s Spur. The location was an important place during the Buckland Riot of 1857. It was the point where the Chinese miners escaping the valley were forced to cross the river on a narrow log crossing. Many were thought to have fallen into the winter-charge river below, before European sympathisers stepped between the rioters and the Chinese, subduing the violence. A number of bridges have spanned the locality. The remains of an early earth abutment remain in the picnic area, whilst the timber support posts still remain on both banks. The remaining Buckland ‘dredge-ladder’ Bridge was constructed in about 1929, reportedly by Ben Morgan, bridge builder and miner of the Buckland. The bridge replaced the earlier one which was located downstream. Beneath the deck of the bridge are four steel girders, each slightly different in design, these were originally the bucket ladders from four different dredges. Around these girders once revolved an endless chain of buckets, digging and raising the gravel, containing the gold, onto the processing plant on-board the dredge. Another bridge was proposed to be built by the Bright Shire Council during the 1970s for logging operations of Selwyn Timbers. The bridge was never completed; however the earth abutments were formed and the longer western abutment forms the northern boundary of todays’ picnic area. The Buckland bridge picnic area evolved from its use as a gold panning demonstration area, where lessons were given to school groups by a local tourism operator during the 1980s. Improvements to the site were made to facilitate these operations. These included clearing of weed and undergrowth, forming of a fireplace for damper cooking, and providing steps down to the riverbank for gold panning demonstrations and lessons.19 These facilities were improved in the 1990s with the installation of picnic tables, fencing and fireplaces by the then Department of Conservation Forest and Land. In 2005 the Department of Sustainability and Environment erected a double-sided information shelter at the site. One side provides users with information on recreational activities, whilst the other a goldfield’s history of the valley. The Buckland bridge picnic area has just seen the completion of a new bridge (March 2021) a few metres downstream from the former. This area is regarded as a key feature in the valley, serving as an important ‘gateway’ to the valley and is activities.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: The Buckland bridge picnic areas is a lightly timbered open grassy flat. The recent construction of the new concrete Buckland Valley Road bridge has significantly compromised the size and functionality of the original area. Minimal infrastructure includes two picnic tables and one remaining fireplace. Provision for parking is currently limited to a small number of vehicles (possibly not exceeding 10) with no parking provision for larger vehicles or vehicles towing camper-trailers or vans. RIVER ACCESS: Only one formal access point to the river exists in the form of a set of timber and earth steps. The river is generally not accessible due to a shallow and steep bank.
19 Mr Ray Kompe, resident of the Buckland Valley, operated this venture for several decades, providing a unique experience for many thousands of school children, giving them an insight into gold panning techniques and the history of the Buckland Valley goldfield.
64 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Existing Recreational Activities: There is currently an information shelter located at the entryway into the site. This covered sign provides forest-user information on one side and goldfield’s history on the other. The site is used for day picnicking with limited water-play activities during summer. The locality is promoted as a fishing area, however, access points for river-based activities are limited.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: The Buckland bridge area has long been an informal gateway to the Buckland Valley State forest and forested country further south, and offers ideal scope for development as a more formal gateway, or entry point, creating a ‘sense of arrival’ for visitors. It provides a tangible sense that the locality is a recreation zone. It also provides an opportunity to convey important messaging on activities. It is a visitor’s first impression and should be a suitably engaging place.
The Buckland bridge picnic area is an important launching place for the recreational activities in the whole of the Buckland Valley . It has potential to provide enhanced information on the activities in the valley, as well as becoming in important day visitor recreational hub. The present picnic area has been significantly compromised with the construction of the new bridge and it is proposed to provide a new, larger picnic area to better cater for current and future use.
The main area for consideration of expansion is situated on the southern, upstream side of the Buckland Valley Road. A significant area of dredge-tailings is potentially available for provision of the proposed additional facilities. It is proposed to make the locality more of a hub destination, offering a number of recreational opportunities, including: • A sense of connectivity and a gateway to the Buckland Valley recreational activities. • Day visitor facilities for picnicking, tables and fireplaces. • Provision for small and large groups. • Greater parking capacity for larger vehicles including buses, coaches and vehicles towing caravans, etc. • Toilet facilities, male/female/unisex (long-drop). • Horse-float parking and unload area. • Trailhead location for proposed tracks (walkers and horse riders). • River access points. • Greater information on activities available. • All-weather graveled road surface. • Traditional Owner information. • Historical Interpretation and information
It would be proposed to maintain the existing area on the north side of the Bridge, upgrading the present footpath under both bridges for pedestrian link between the sites. The old bridge would become suitable for pedestrian access, particularly in conjunction with the proposed Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use Track.
Vehicle access to the day visitor area would be a primary consideration for vehicles turning off the Buckland Road. Considerations for a through road, with an exit point further along the Buckland Valley Road for vehicles continuing up the valley.
Interpretation: Opportunities are high in this locality. Particularly in highlighting the Traditional Owner connections to Country and the general goldfield’s history of the Buckland. Presentation of the history of the locality is also high, in relation to the importance of the crossing place in the event of the 1857 riot and the history of the bridges in association with the remnant fabric.
Infrastructure Design: Considerations for a subtle architectural-design style across the Buckland Valley could be adopted. Using design elements and materials which reflect the
65 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals history of the area. Design elements and materials should consider existing DELWP infrastructure currently established in the Buckland Valley, as well as DELWP guidelines for signage styles and walking track infrastructure. Uniform design would provide a more and coherent appearance across the valley.
Infrastructure that will be influenced by any guidelines will mostly be Information and interpretive sign structures and trailheads.
A benefit in developing the Bridge Gateway as a main hub and trailhead location is that the locality will reduce some of the road traffic that otherwise may proceed further along Buckland Valley Rd. Creating a parking and staging area for a majority of day visitation activities potentially reduces the number of vehicles on the upper and more challenging sections of the Buckland Valley Road.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS The site would be an important trailhead location for both the Western River Multi-use Track and Section 1 of The Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use Track.
66 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.2. BV01 Picnic Area LOCATION: Buckland Valley Road, 1km past the Buckland Bridge. See Map Sheet 1.
Distance from BV Bridge: 01km Approx. Area: 0.3 acres
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Location has no known place name. The immediate vicinity has been ground-sluiced for gold. The Phoenix bucket dredge was possibly floated up the river past this location, whilst working its way upstream from the Buckland bridge area from 1903.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: Consists of an upper and lower flat. The lower flat is a generally open grassy flat with gentle slope down toward the river. A steep hillside opposite has a series of large terraced water races. Some mature eucalypt trees provide shade. The upper flat is a large open and lightly timbered area with mature eucalypt trees. The site is currently used as an informal camping area.
River Access: Access is naturally good in this locality, with some deeper wading pools available during summer.
Road Access: good access from the Buckland Valley Road.
Existing Recreational Activities: The site is suited to day picnicking, shallow water-play and is a good fishing access point.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended this locality is formalised as a low-key day visitor picnic area, with minimal infrastructure and little, if any, interpretation20. This site would be an important strategic location for users of the proposed Western River Multi-use Track dividing sections 1 and 2. Basic picnic facilities could be established on the lower river flat and potentially on the upper flat overlooking the river. Vehicle access should be excluded from the lower area, with parking provided on the upper flat.
The day picnic area would become a good access point along the proposed Western River Track, which would pass through the site.
Infrastructure: Slight upgrade to road access with gravelling and minor drainage works. A small number of picnic tables and fireplaces. Bollards or similar fencing to delineate parking and picnic areas.
20 It is not a recommendation of this Master Plan that every proposed day visitor area has interpretive, or forest-user information placed within it. ‘Sign clutter’ across the landscape can be visually distracting, as well as requiring initial costs and levels of on-going monitoring and maintenance for land managers. The leaving of ‘space’ within in the landscape is as much an important management strategy, rather than always having to providing information in all public spaces.
67 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Longer term, if both the proposed Western River and The Bridge to Camp Flat tracks were established, a footbridge in the vicinity (either a short distance up or downstream), would create an ideal loop track between this site and the Buckland Bridge Gateway site. Toilets may also be a longer-term consideration.
Interpretation: Opportunities are generally low in this locality. Greater opportunity exists in Section 2 of the Western River Multi-use Track.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS The site would be an important access point for the Western River Multi-use Track.
68 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.3. BV02 Picnic Area LOCATION: Buckland Valley Road, 2km past the Buckland Bridge. See Map Sheet 1.
Distance from BV Bridge: 02km Approx. Area: 0.5 acres
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The site is in vicinity of the former Macao Chinese camp. The Phoenix bucket dredge also worked the river flats opposite and in vicinity of this location during the early 1900s.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
SITE DESCRIPTION: Consists of an upper and lower flat. The lower flat is a small area with a small bank adjacent to the river. A large lightly timbered area opposite is an old flood-plain worked by the Phoenix bucket dredge during the early 1900s. The upper flat is a large open area with patches of blackberry and wattle re-growth. The locality was a former pine plantation, harvested during the mid 1980s. The lower river-flat is occasionally used as an informal camping area.
Road Access: Generally good, with some minor ruts, access from the Buckland Valley Road. Final approach to the river is generally four-wheel drive access only.
River Access: Access is good in this locality, with some deeper wading pools available during summer.
Existing Recreational Activities: The site is suited to day picnicking, shallow water-play and is a good fishing access point.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS: It is recommended this locality is formalised as a low-key day visitor picnic area, with minimal infrastructure. This site would be an important strategic location for users of the proposed Western River Multi-use Track dividing sections 1 and 2. Basic picnic facilities could be established on the lower river flat and potentially on the upper flat overlooking the river. Vehicle access should be excluded from the lower area, with parking provided on the upper flat.
The day picnic area would become a good access point along the proposed Western River Track, which would pass through the site.
Infrastructure: Slight upgrade to road access with gravelling and minor drainage works. A small number of picnic tables and fireplaces. Bollards or similar fencing to delineate parking and picnic areas.
Longer term, if both the proposed Western River and The Bridge to Camp Flat tracks were established, a footbridge in the vicinity (either a short distance up or downstream), would create an ideal loop track between this site and the Buckland Bridge Gateway site. Toilets may also be a longer-term consideration.
69 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Interpretation: An opportunity may exist in this specific locality for some geographic goldfield’s interpretation. Several historical images are available showing the Phoenix dredge operating on the flat opposite. Greater opportunity may also exist in Section 2 of the Western River Multi-use Track.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS The site would be an important location for both the Western River Multi-use Track and Section 1 of The Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use Track. The locality would provide a potential link or crossing place for horse riders connecting with the Western River Multi-use track and Section 2 of The Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use Track.
70 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.4. Camp Flat Picnic Area LOCATION: Buckland valley Road, 7.5km past the Buckland Bridge. See Map Sheet 1.
Distance from BV Bridge: 07.4km Approx. Area: 0.3 acres
SITE BACKGROUND/HISTORY: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Camp Flat21 was the first principal population centre of the Buckland diggings, located near the first rich gold discoveries at Maguire’s Point in 1853. Also known as ‘The Camp’ after the first police camp on the goldfield, it was the main crossing place over the river. Stores and hotels were trading in this locality during the summer of 1853-54 when the population in the immediate area alone was estimated as being in excess of 1,000. Within a few years The Camp boasted several weatherboard stores, butchers, blacksmiths, the Buckland post office, Catholic chapel, a doctor, dairy, dressmaker and a house decorator! The districts first government administration centre was located at The Camp, with a police camp, lock up, and petty sessions court.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Swift, A. A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, unpublished draft, 2008.
SITE DESCRIPTION: Located off the Buckland Valley Road at the ‘Twelve-Mile’. Camp Flat is a lightly timbered open grassy flat on a sweeping bend of the Buckland River, surrounded by steep hillsides and shallow alluvial gold workings. The original route of the old Buckland Road to the Junction passes through the flat with a ford crossing. The river divides Camp Flat into two areas. The north bank is a smaller area of mature eucalypt trees and wattle, whilst the south flat is the main camping area with formal fireplaces and a toilet. This latter side of the crossing is generally only accessible to four-wheel drives during low-river levels periods.
The locality is a popular camping and picnic destination.
Road Access: Access into the site, north of the crossing, is good and has recently been upgraded and graveled. The river crossing is generally well-maintained, though conditions can vary seasonally and high-river flows. Generally, the south flat is only accessible during low-river level periods.
River Access: Accessibility to the river is generally good in this locality, with some deeper swimming and wading pools available during summer.
Existing Recreational Activities: This locality is one of the Buckland Valley’s busier recreational hubs. The site is mostly used for camping, with no specific facilities for day visitation. The river has good water-play and swimming areas and is promoted as a fishing locality. Walking opportunities currently exist along the old Buckland Road towards the Junction, and the old four-wheel drive track, heading back down-stream on the east side of the river, past the Welcome mine workings. This latter route has also been used by horse riders in more recent times.
PROPOSALS/RECOMMENDATIONS:
21 also known as the Twelve Mile.
71 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
It is proposed to offer the smaller flat area on the north side of the river for exclusive day use only, whilst camping would still be available on the south side of the crossing. Day visitation opportunities, during peak periods, are very limited in the upper Buckland areas, particularly at this important recreational hub.
The Camp Flat area has the potential to be an important recreational hub, for day and overnight visitors accessing the river’s recreational opportunities, as well as the existing and proposed multi-used tracks and interpretation routes and sites.
The north river flat should be formalised into a day visitor and picnic area, with a parking area22 and picnic tables. The locality is relatively small and limitations on the area available for parking would see this site suitable only for smaller parties and not large groups. Provision for a toilet on this side of the river should also be considered; there being access challenges to the existing toilet on the south side of the river. Should a pedestrian bridge be considered for at Camp Flat, the need for a toilet on the north side of the river may not be necessary. Improvements to create greater river access should also be undertaken.
Infrastructure: Formalisation of parking area, catering to a small number of medium sized vehicles, allowing sufficient room for a small turnaround area, etc. Provide a small number of picnic tables and fireplaces, relative to the size and number of car parking areas that would become available. Bollards or similar fencing to separate parking and picnic areas.
Horse-float and large vehicle parking area: Establishment of a parking area on the east side of the Buckland Valley Road, on the approach to the Camp Flat entry area. It would be available for use by horse riders (perhaps of less experience) wishing access track networks in the Camp Flat area. It would also provide short-term parking for visitors with campervans or trailers wishing to use the picnic area or other facilities in the Camp flat area.
Connectivity: Longer term, if the proposed The Bridge to Camp Flat track was established, a footbridge (a short distance up or downstream?), would create an ideal connection to Ah Youngs camping area. A loop could be created between the Telecom and Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use tracks, via Ah Youngs Flat. This would provide a loop circuit of approximately 3.8km.
Interpretation: This locality has strong goldfield’s interpretation opportunities, being one of the earliest main goldfield township and government administration sites in the whole of the Upper Ovens Valley. It also has indigenous interpretation values, particularly in comparison of shared cultural themes with cultural differences and similarities in the use of landscape.
Other specific interpretive points of interest in the locality include: • Goldfield’s township amenities; business, government services, etc. • Catholic Chapel and burial ground • Former bridge site(s) • Welcome quartz reef mine • Social aspects
Limited Mobility Access: in addition, this locality could be considered for provision of infrastructure for limited mobility access. This may include simple ramps to the river and provision of toilets with hand rails.
WALKING/MULTI-USE TRACKS The site would be an important trailhead location for the proposed walks, multi-use tracks and interpretive routes. Potentially offering a range of walks, distances, loops and interpretive values, including:
22 This would cater for medium sized vehicles only. Large vehicles and those towing trailers and floats would be directed to park in pull-over areas adjacent to the Buckland Valley Road, just before the main entryway to Camp Flat.
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1. Fairley’s Creek Mine Walk 2. The Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use Track 3. Telecom Multi-use (Loop) Track 4. Camp Flat to the Junction Interpretation Route
73 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.5. Junction Picnic Area Location: Buckland Valley Road. See to Map Sheet 1.
Distance from BV Bridge: 7.5km Approx. Area: 0.5 acres
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The Junction was the name referred to the settlement formed around the junction of the west and east branches of the Buckland River. It was the upper Buckland’s main commercial centre that flourished from the early days of the field and was also known as ‘Upper Buckland’. It was the last main crossing place of the Buckland River and a major turn-off point to mine workings that extended for many kilometres up both branches of the river. During the peak period of the goldfield the narrow point in the valley was a scene of numerous stores, including, Chinese and European hotels, post office, Joss house temple, school, blacksmith, etc. Over the years the Junction was scene to a range of events and activities of the gold era; from rich discoveries of alluvial gold, the horrific events of the race riot of 1857, the passing of bullock teams hauling steam engines and stamp batteries en route to their various quartz mines, and the churning activity of the bucket dredges of the early 20th century. The principal business strip of the Junction was on a high terrace of ground between the two branches of the river. Several footbridges and large timber flumes also spanned both branches of the river.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Swift, A. A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, unpublished draft, 2008.
Site Description: The junction of the east and west branches of the Buckland River form a narrow point in the valley. A small concrete bridge (The Junction Bridge) crosses, Scotchman’s Creek, 23 and the Old Buckland Road crosses the east branch of the river, re-joining with the Buckland Valley Road. The locality is a popular destination in the valley, particularly for those familiar with the area’s goldfield’s history wishing to picnic in what many consider as the Buckland goldfield historical hub. Some informal camping occurs in this area. At the junction of the river and immediately downstream of the Junction bridge is a small strip of flat land nestled between the river and the Buckland Valley Road. This locality would form the principal Junction picnic area.
On a high point, overlooking the Junction, on the east side of the road, immediately north of the cattle grid and Scotchman’s Creek Track, is a parcel of freehold land, used as a private holiday retreat. This was the main commercial centre for the Junction.
Road Access: Buckland Valley Road (gravel), is generally good and suitable for two-wheel drive vehicles.
River Access: Access to the river is limited mostly to the ford crossing area. Blackberries and vegetation limit access in the vicinity of the junction and immediately downstream.
Existing Recreational Activities: The site is suited to day picnicking, shallow water-play and is promoted as a fishing area. It has general historical interest, though without any on-site interpretation.
23 Originally known during the goldfield’s era as Scotch Bill’s Creek, or the ‘Right Branch’.
74 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
Proposals & Recommendations: It is recommended that the narrow strip of land below the Junction bridge, between the Buckland Valley Road and the river be formalised as a low-key day visitor picnic area, with minimal infrastructure. This site would be an important strategic location for users of the proposed adjoining walking and multi-use tracks in the area.
Infrastructure: A small number of picnic tables and fireplaces. Bollards or similar fencing to delineate parking and picnic areas.
Interpretation: This locality has strong goldfield’s interpretation opportunities, being one of the more readily identified locations though various historical publications. It also has indigenous interpretation values, particularly in comparison of shared cultural themes with cultural differences and similarities in the use of landscape.
Walking & Multi-use Tracks The Junction area has several opportunities to connect with proposed walking and Multi-use tracks.
o Camp Flat – Junction Interpretive Route o Junction – Clear Creek Multi-use Trail o King’s Ditch Walking Track
Pedestrian access across the river to the proposed Camp Flat - Junction Interpretation Route and the Junction - Clear Creek Multi-use Track may be limited by river height levels, and to users with four-wheel drive access, or to walkers with a willingness to wade through the river at low-river-level periods. More direct access to the proposed King’s Ditch Walk might be better suited to a wider range of walkers and would not be dependent upon river levels. River levels permitting, committed walkers could create a loop via both the Junction – Clear Creek Multi-use Track and the King’s Ditch Walking Track.
75 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 8. Picnic Areas – Descriptions and Proposals
8.6. BV22.5 Picnic Area Location: Buckland Valley Road, between Head Race Flat and The Bend camping areas. See Map Sheet 6.
Distance from BV Bridge 22.5km Approx. Area acres
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
There is no immediate goldfield’s history associated with this site. The location has been used as an informal camping area.
Site Description: The site is located on a lightly timbered flat on a bend of the river. A narrow foot track, adjacent to the river, connects the site with some informal camping areas downstream. This track provides access to swimming holes.
Road Access: The first section of track is generally good, though a short section down to the flat is relatively steep, rough and is currently suitable to four-wheel drive access only.
River Access: Access is good to a range of places along the river, with some deeper swimming and wading pools available during summer.
Existing Recreational Activities: The site is used for day picnicking and informal camping as well as swimming, water-play and fishing.
Proposals & Recommendations: It is recommended this locality is formalised as a low-key day visitor picnic area, with minimal infrastructure. This site has potential to become a principal day visitor area in the Upper Buckland Valley. Its good river accessibility and range of associated river-based activities, make it an ideal location for day visitation. Ample camping areas are available above the Junction; however, no areas exist for day visitors during busy periods. This location would also provide a good opportunity for day visitors to experience a more natural bush setting than any of the picnic areas lower-down the valley.
Infrastructure: Improvements to road access with gravelling and minor drainage works. A small number of picnic tables and fireplaces.
Limited Mobility Access: in addition, this locality could be considered for provision of infrastructure for limited mobility access. This may include simple ramps to the river and provision of toilets with hand rails.
Walking & Multi-use Tracks No formal tracks, other than those already accessing points along the river. May require some minor upgrades or path forming.
76 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
Despite having had many thousands of years of connection to Country by Taungurung Traditional Owners and having a strong goldfield’s history, the Buckland Valley has only two sites with specific geographic historical information and interpretation.
• The Buckland cemetery, a popular destination has some basic general information on the history of the valley, erected by the Harrietville Historical Society in 1972.
• Chinese memorial and burial ground, adjacent to the Buckland cemetery. This memorial commemorates the Chinese miners who lost their lives and those who are buried in the valley. The stone stele monument was erected by the Chinese Australian Family Historians of Victoria in 2007, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Buckland Riot.
Many places, largely relating to the goldfield’s history of the Buckland Valley, contain features or histories that have some level of opportunity for presentation as an attraction or visitor area. Some have potential to be associated with proposed multi-use tracks, others lend themselves as stand-alone interpretation sites.
An important area for the interpretation are places of importance to the Taungurung Traditional Owners of the Buckland Valley, and opportunities to tell and share the story of the Taungurung as custodians of Country.
The details of interpretation of all aspects of the Buckland valley should be examined with the development of a brief Interpretation and Presentation Strategy. (See Section 11).
Selection Criteria The establishment of any new interpretation sites should consider the following selection criteria: • Accessibility • Representative of a range, mode of type • An important place in the history of the valley • Low Maintenance • Be an engaging historical geographic experience
77 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9.1. Fairley’s Creek Gold Mine stamp battery sites Location: BV07km, west side of road. See Map Sheet 2 Length: 1.2km (One way) Grade: 3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers (not suitable for horse-riding)
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The Fairley’s Creek gold mine was one of the last large mines to be worked in the Buckland. It appears to have been a relatively late discovery in 1887. a crushing of 168 tons of quartz gave a return of 121 ounces of gold. In 1888 a 600-yard-long tramway and a battery site were erected by the Fairley’s Creek Gold Mining Company. Between 1889 and 1891 the company crushed 1,354 ton for 575 ounces of gold.
In 1897 a London based company with £30,000 working capital took over the mine. They erected a 30- head stamp battery in 1898, which was the one of the largest batteries ever to be erected in the district. After some limited success for a year or two the yield dropped off and the battery and extensive plant were removed in 1905, being on site for less than five years.
In December 1898, a terrible accident occurred in the stopes between the No. 1 and 2 levels which resulted in the deaths of two miners. William Batt was killed outright by a fall of rock and completely buried, John Fitzgerald was still alive, but badly injured. After an arduous journey up a 38-foot ladder, then along 160 feet of tunnel, he was conveyed down the steep hill to his parent’s house where he died within an hour of the accident. Both men are buried in the Buckland cemetery.
The Fairley’s Creek Gold Mining Company’s mine represented the largest amount of infrastructure established on the Buckland field at any one site. The 30 head battery was the largest set up on any of the Upper Oven’s goldfields.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004. Swift, A. A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, unpublished draft, 2008.
Site Description & Proposal: The creation of a short walk (2.4km return) from Camp Flat. Providing access for day visitors and campers.
The Fairley’s Creek Mine Walk would be a highly interpretive and picturesque walk. The beginning of the walk, adjacent to the Buckland Valley Road, is near the later 1898, 30 head battery site. This site, currently overgrown with blackberries, contains the layout of the large machinery site, including battery, mortar-box bed-log pits, boiler-setting remains and an accumulation of battery sand heaps.
From the 1898 battery site, an open and old dray road follows Fairley’s Creek upstream. The dray road ends at the bottom of the inclined tramway and at the site of the earlier 1888 battery site. This location contains impressive features, including stone terracing, battery site, inclined tramway ramp-way, and the ruins of a stone building.
There is a good historical record of the mining activity at the mine. It also has connections to other existing and proposed visitor facilities, including: o The Buckland Cemetery, through William Batts grave and the mining accident of 1898.
78 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
o King’s Ditch Walking Track, which was a water race named after the Fairley’s’ Creek mine manager and used to provide water to the Pelton-wheel24 that drove the 30 head battery.
Its proximity to the main lower camping and day visitor offers good educational and recreational values.
This proposal is not to access any of the mine workings, which are high the hillside above the early battery site.
Should the walk become increasingly popular, consideration could be given to the opening of the old access tracks to some of the lower-level adits (tunnels). Another option would be to create a circuit of the dray road, by returning along one of the water races on the north side of Fairley’s Creek, back to the Buckland Valley Road.
Network connections: This walking track would have a direct pedestrian access to Camp Flat picnic and camping areas, and potentially direct connections with the Telecom Multi-use Track and Ah Young’s Camping Area.
Required Works: The proposed walk would initially require a relatively small amount of work to open, and could be undertaken in stages or sections, based on priorities: o Open and clear the main dray road to the 1888 battery site and base of the inclined tramway. Route is mostly clear and open. Some weed and vegetation removal may be required in places. o Placement of directional signage from Camp Flat. o Installation of interpretive signage. o Clearing and spraying of blackberries at the 1898 battery site and limiting access to some sensitive feature may be required.
This proposal would require minimal construction. Some steps and basic fencing may be required if accessing and presenting sites with historic fabric.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents, 2. initial access points and routes 3. Specific route alignments 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Examine any potential for contribution of Indigenous connections, comparisons or interpretive opportunities (liaise with the TLaWC). • Examine main historical themes. • interpretation points, content.
The site has good comparative interpretive and connectivity values in association with: • Paulussey’s public crushing battery site • Nelson, boiler-driven battery site • Leinster battery and mining settlement site
24 An impulse-type water turbine, utilizing energy from pressurized water directed into cast-iron cups around the outer diameter of the turbine wheel.
79 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
• Wellington battery and waterwheel hub remains • Red jacket, quartz mine site
Maintenance: The site would require an annual inspection and clearing of fallen timber and brush cutting of sidling track corridor as required.
Early Fairley’s Creek gold mine, battery site and base of incline tramway.
Group of Fairley’s Creek miners outside an upper adit portal, c1890s. (Percy Croft collection, Rose Chandler)
80 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9.2. Camp Flat to Junction Interpretive Route Location: BV07 – 10.5km, old Buckland Road between Camp Flat & Junction. Map Sheet 2 Length: 2.8km (One way) Grade: 2, level surfaces, along existing four-wheel drive road (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers, horse-riders, four-wheel drives
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
THE OLD BUCKLAND ROAD – The proposed interpretation route follows the original section of the old Buckland Road, along the east side of the river and would have been formed in the early months of the field discovery. In the 1970s the Buckland Road was re-aligned for logging purposes along the west side of the river; thus eliminating two river crossings. This is now the main road used today. The 4 kilometre stretch of road between The Camp and the Junction was an important link between the upper and lower Buckland. Many huts, houses, shanties, hotels and other business were situated along this important thoroughfare. Important places along this route, included the Upper Buckland School, Tanswell’s Hotel, a Chinese burial ground, a range of mining and associated infrastructure types, and many other goldfield’s related places.
PAULUSSEY’S BATTERY SITE – In 1885 the Paulussey brothers, erected a quartz crushing plant at the Harp of Erin mine. The 4 head stamp battery, driven by a ten-horsepower waterwheel, crushed the waste mullock from the old Harp of Erin reef. They offered their battery for public crushings, contributing greatly to the larger success of many of the quartz mines of the Buckland for many years. Being centrally located it encouraged prospecting activity, crushing numerous small trial parcels of stone, determining their values, from which some parties would go on to erect their own plants. It also reduced the need for many of the smaller parties the heavy expense of erecting their own crushing machinery, content to pack their stone to the mill and have it crushed for a small fee.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004. Swift, A. A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, unpublished draft, 2008.
Site Description & Proposal: Creation of an interpretive route between Camp Flat and the Junction. Good accessible route. Establishment of several interpretation points that can be readily accessed by walkers, cyclists, horse riders and four-wheel drivers along this quieter section of the old Buckland Valley Road. Installation of interpretive signage points (4 to 6 signs) at key historic localities. High goldfield’s interpretive values along the route may include, but are not limited to: 1. Hydraulic sluicing pit 2. Paulussey’s Battery Site 3. Upper Buckland school site 4. Residential and hotel sites 5. Junction settlement area
There are also good opportunities to provide Traditional Owner information about interactions with the natural environment.
Network connections: This interpretation route creates a link between the proposed Bridge – Camp Flat and Junction - Clear Creek Multi-use. It also has direct connections to the Camp and the proposed Junction picnic area.
81 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
Required Works: The proposed interpretation route would require the preparation of a specific interpretation plan and the installation of interpretation signage. The access road to Paulussey’s Battery site would need to be closed to vehicle access. This site has sensitive historical features and archaeological values that are currently compromised by informal camping adjacent to the site.
A brief Interpretation & Works Plan should be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process, and should include: 1. Background history of places key places along the route. 2. Examine any potential for contribution of Indigenous connections, comparisons or interpretive opportunities (liaise with the TLaWC). 3. Examine main historical themes. 4. Confirm interpretation points and content. 5. Locations of signs and provision for pull-over areas. 6. Design signage structures. 7. Graphic design and sign-plate artwork 8. Site plan for Paulussey’s battery site, addressing protection of features and values.
This proposal would require minimal construction. Minor works for interpretation points and simple pull-over areas. Some barrier preventing vehicle access to Paulussey’s battery site and potential risk mitigation works may require some minor fencing or grate-covers for mine shafts.
Maintenance: Inspections of barrier at Paulussey’s battery site. Cleaning of interpretation signage.
Elevated water-race – Paulussey’s battery site.
Paulussey’s waterwheel driven battery c1880-90s. (Harrietville Historical Society collection)
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9.3. Nelson Mine and Battery Site Location: BV10.8km, Scotchman’s Track. See Map Sheet 3 Length: 1.8km (Loop) Grade: 2/3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
Nelson Creek was the focus of the Buckland population in January 1858 with the discovery of the rich Alta quartz reef, by William Woods, two and a half miles above the Junction. In August 1858, the Ovens & Murray Advertiser announced “a regular quartz mania was prevalent in the district” with the discovery of the Nelson reef on the spur opposite the Alta, by William Nelson. Good specimens of gold were found in the quartz strewn down the hillside. A trail crushing of two tons taken to a mill at Myrtleford gave a return of 13 ounces per ton.
Although the reefs were rich, the initial returns from the Alta and Nelson were poor, the plant and complexities of the ore were blamed. The lower tunnel on the Nelson was commenced in the late 1860s and by December 1871 the tunnel had reached the reef. Numerous small crushings were made from both reefs over the next few years. The total combined production for the reefs between January 1861 and December 1878 was 6,191 tons for 3,274 ounces of gold.
John Alston Wallace briefly took out a claim on the Nelson workings in January 1879, however, little appears to have eventuated. The mine then appears to have been abandoned for almost a decade until it was taken up by G. W. Sharp and A. Masciorini in early 1889. A small amount of work was undertaken but no production figures have been found. The Nelson was taken up in November 1898 by William Francis Dugons(?) and a machinery site on the west side of the Nelson Creek, between the tunnel and the creek, was registered. A plant appears to have been set up at this time and a report appeared in the Alpine Observer in December 1899 stating that crushing had started on stone from the mullock heap, and the plant was running well. Work was also being carried out in the main tunnel, though no further reports appeared.
During a realignment of Scotsman’s Track in the late 1990s, the then Department of Conservation and Environment, unearthed a large mortar box from beneath blackberries where a new culvert was to be placed in Nelson Creek.25 This originally would have come from one of the Nelson and Alta battery sites. This battery box was removed and is now in the grounds of the Bright Museum.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004. Swift, A. A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, unpublished draft, 2008. Morgan, Henry, Unpublished diary extracts, typed facsimile copy early 1990s. Alpine Observer, key articles, 28th May 1897, 22nd December 1899. Ovens & Murray Advertiser, key articles, 20th August 1858.
Site Description and Proposal: The Nelson battery site is located immediately below the Nelson Creek Track and above the creek, and to the west of and below the lower adit mullock dump. A Cornish boiler and rock setting are situated in the south-east corner of the site. Remnants of the stonework for the base of the flue at the rear of the boiler are found partially buried from rubble above. The outline of the battery building can be discerned by low rock rubble walls beneath the mullock-dump. About the site traces of positions of various machinery components can be seen.
25 A chap by the name of Honey had an alluvial claim in the area in the mid to late 1970s; he was known to have scratched around in the vicinity of the alluvial workings above the battery site. He may have moved the battery box from its original site next to the Cornish boiler.
83 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
The lower adit portal is located on the top side of the road; a 35 metre long trench approaches the portal. The adit is open though is partially full of water; the remains of timber sets can be seen just inside the entrance. The large blue slate and sandstone mullock-dump runs parallel between the creek and the road. The entire site is largely overgrown with blackberries.
The proposal is for the creation of a short walk from Scotchman’s Track to the Nelson mine and battery site via the existing Nelson Creek Track. This gold-bearing quartz reef mine was one of the earliest discovered in the Buckland Valley in 1858.
Two-wheel drive access is available to the culvert crossing at Nelson Creek. With minor works, sufficient area exists here for turning and parking for a small number of vehicles. Visitors would be encouraged to walk the short distance (600m) to visit the site. The battery site would require some fencing between the road and the boiler and the re-forming of the original foot-track into the site. The features of the site are generally robust and should require minimal intervention, or protection form visitation. The approach to the adit portal should be cleared and made available for viewing. The portal should be gated and made secure, though should maintain the remnant timber set.
A component of this proposal would be to reinstate the original mortar-box from the battery, removed in recent decades, and presently held by the Bright & District Historical Society (B&DHS). The Society supports the idea. The opening of this site, with the machinery reinstated, would be a positive collaborative project and create a connectivity between the mine site and the historical society’s museum and State battery facility at Dougherty’s Bridge, Bright-Wandiligong Road.
This site has high interpretation values - it bears witness to a way of life that has long disappeared. The experience of looking into the abandoned and water-filled tunnel, along with viewing the ruins of the once impressive industrial machinery site, can be a powerful and evocative experience for many visitors. It is quite a rare opportunity in any State orest.
Should the walk and site become increasingly popular, consideration could be given create a circuit, by returning along one of the water races on the east side of Nelson Creek, back to Scotchman’s Creek Track. A small footbridge would allow for this circuit walk to be completed along the water race.
Network connections: This site has no direct network connections, though is only 3km from the Junction. Scotchman’s Creek Track is also well graded and would be suitable for easy bike riding. Much longer-term, there are also opportunities to connect the Nelson mine site to the Junction via one of the high-level water races that are in the vicinity of the proposed King Ditch Walking Track.
Required Works: The proposed walk would initially require a slightly more involved plan, and could be undertaken in stages or sections, based on priorities: 1. Spray and clear blackberries from battery site and adit-portal approach. 2. Prepare a car parking area. 3. Placement of directional and advisory signage on approach and site. 4. Minor conservation works at battery site. 5. Gate adit portal and form approach. 6. Installation of interpretive signage. 7. Work with the B&DHS to re-instate the mortar-box adjacent to the boiler.
This proposal would require some level of infrastructure construction. Some steps and basic fencing may be required if accessing and presenting sites with historic fabric.
A brief Works and Conservation Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including:
84 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. initial access points and routes. 3. Identify conservation objectives of the site. 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies. 5. Works procedures and methods. 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history • Examine main historical themes • interpretation points, content.
The site has good comparative interpretive and connectivity values in association with the proposed: • Paulussey’s public crushing battery site • Fairley’s Creek Mine Walk • Leinster battery and mining settlement site • Wellington battery and waterwheel hub remains • Red jacket, quartz mine site. Maintenance: The site would require an annual inspection and clearing of fallen timber and brush cutting of sidling track corridor as required.
Cornish boiler at the Nelson mine battery site, 2007.
Water-race between Nelson mine and Scotchman’s Creek Track, 2007.
85 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9.4. Red Jacket Mine Walk Location: BV13km, Clear Creek Track. See Map Sheet 4 Length: 2km (Loop) Grade: 3, level steep climb along an old mining access track steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The Red Jacket reef was discovered in September 1867 and caused a brief rush of prospectors to the Buckland which resulted in a further three payable reefs being discovered. Gitchell, McLean and Co. purchased the mine and erected a battery. Expensive tunnels were being driven to reach the reef at depth. The No. 2 level took over a year to drive and found the reef to be unpayable at this depth, however a good reef was later discovered this tunnel. In its first five years of recorded production the Red Jacket produced 7,496 ounces of gold from 5,645 tons of ore.
In September 1874, it was recorded that work was progressing in a third lower-level tunnel. In September the following year, it was reported the company had reached the reef. The stone appears to have been poor and nothing is recorded on the mine for the rest of the decade.
After years of numerous parties fruitlessly attempting to re-work the mine, Alfred Rudebeck and William Rowe registered a claim on the Red Jacket workings in October 1899. They discovered a payable reef in the No. 2 adit level and the first crushing of 3 tons produced 26 ounces of gold. It is not clear whether or not they erected the battery on the site of the lower adit, though they continued making small yet profitable crushing up until 1904. In the five years that Rowe and Rudebeck worked the Red Jacket they produced 526 ounces from 305 ½ tons of stone.
The Red Jacket was taken up in 1936 by Ben Morgan (one of the sons of Henry Morgan), at the age of 69, after retiring from bridge building. He moved to Clear Creek with his wife Mary where he constructed a two-roomed hut and erected a stamp battery. He was still working the mine in 1939 when the battery and house were destroyed by fire; the couple survived the fires along with Tom Hall. The mine then appears to have been abandoned.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Site Description and Proposal: Features of the Red Jacket workings are three adit levels, three battery sites, track and tramway networks and hut sites. A well-defined sidling track has been cut from the east end of the Red Jacket Flat and along the west side of the Red Jacket Gully. It runs at a consistently steep gradient to the No. 3 adit level. Some faintly defined tracks branch off this main track at points along the way; possibly to the upper levels. A steep walk of approximately 45 minutes takes you to the bottom No. 3 adit level.
This proposal is for the creation of a more rugged bushwalking experience. The route following the well-defined sidling foot-track up to the mine workings. A loop can be formed by returning via a level tramway, then down the spur following the route of an inclined tramway and sleigh track.
Network connections: There are no direct network connections, however the site does offer an additional recreational activity to the informal camping within the Clear Creek valley. Required Works: The proposed walk would require the length of the original sidling foot-track to the No. 3 adit level to be cleared. The site is occasionally visited using this route. This
86 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites would require the clearing of any fallen timber and the brush cutting of approximately 800m of the length of the track.
Work would mostly be undertaken in stages or sections, based on priorities: • Define approach route between Red Jacket Flat and sidling track. • Placement of directional signage from Red Jacket Flat. • Clearing of timber and vegetation from sidling track corridor. • Installation of basic interpretive signage.
This proposal would mostly require the clearing of the sidling track and installation of minor directional signage. There is no initial proposal to gate the adit portals, as the lower tunnels are water-filled.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Clearing requirements 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be completed as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Examine any potential for contribution of Indigenous connections, comparisons or interpretive opportunities (liaise with the TLaWC). • Examine main historical themes. • Interpretation points, content.
The site has good comparative interpretive values in association with the proposals for: • Nelson, boiler-driven battery site • Fairley’s Creek Pelton-wheel driven battery site • Leinster battery and mining settlement site • Wellington battery and waterwheel hub remains.
Maintenance: The site would require an annual inspection and clearing of fallen timber and brush cutting of sidling track corridor as required.
Track up to the Red Jacket mine from Clear Creek.
87 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9.5. Miners Right State School Site Location: BV17km, Buckland Valley Rd. See Map Sheet 5 Length: 500m Grade: 2, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: The Miners Right School, No. 1703, was opened in February 1876 with enrolments of 20 boys and 26 girls. In the 1884 the school was struggling for pupils and it was operated on a part-time basis with the Upper Buckland (Junction) school. The school building was also used as a Sunday school, with shared times for the young Catholic and Protestants residents of the Miner Right area. The school closed in 1898.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
Site Description and Proposal: The site of the former school is adjacent to the Buckland Valley Road, between Miner’s Right and Shippen’s Flat. The site is located in a forested area with some introduced trees. The creation of a visitor area at the site of the former Miners Right school site is a short walk from Shippen’s Flat camping area. Little remains of the site other than fireplace rubble and a few faint features amongst the blackberry and scrub. The site has good social goldfield’s interpretation values. Its proximity to a number of camping sites offers good educational and recreational values.
Network connections: the site has a good connection to Shippen’s Flat and would be a short walk along the Buckland Valley Road. The site could also be tied in with the proposed Shippen – Good Hope Water Race Track. It also has potential interpretive links to the Camp Flat – Junction Interpretive Route and the Junction school site.
Required Works: The site would need some minor path clearing and blackberry removal. Some directional and interpretive signage. A picnic table could also be placed at the site. A pull-over area adjacent to the road could also be improved for a small number of parking spaces. • Identify remaining features and extent of site. • Clearing of blackberries, fallen timber and vegetation • Identify and define short access route from road to site • Identify any potential area for placement of picnic table • Installation of locality, directional and interpretive signage.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Clearing requirements 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Examine any potential for contribution of Indigenous connections, comparisons or interpretive opportunities, particularly in comparison/contrasts with schooling and education of children (liaise with the TLaWC).
88 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
• Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: The site would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting.
89 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
9.6. Leinster Battery Site Location: BV19.5km, Buckland Valley Rd. See Map Sheet 5 Length: 500m Grade: 2, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
The Leinster reef was discovered in 1869 and a company was formed with J. A. Wallace the principal owner. Named the Alps Quartz Mining Co., in 1870 a battery was erected by contractors, Mr. Johnson and Andrew Henderson. The battery appears to have been a 12-head water-wheel driven plant. Work at the reef was pushed forward rapidly, by the end of 1870 a massive 3,485 tons of stone were crushed for a little over 803 ounces of gold. The reef was of low-grade but appears to have been readily worked. Crushing’s continued to be recorded by Wallace up until March 1872, though the bulk of the reef appears to have been worked out; a further 1,040 tons of low-grade stone were crushed for 273 ½ ounces of gold. The Leinster water–power crushing mill of twelve stamps was completely destroyed by fire in March 1883, though it appears to have ceased operation for some time prior to this.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Site Description and Proposal: The creation of a visitor area at the site of the former Leinster battery site, immediately adjacent to the Buckland valley Road and a short walk from Leinster Flat camping area. The site has good goldfield’s interpretation values. The battery was among one of the largest on the Upper Buckland. Its proximity to a number of camping sites offers good educational and recreational values.
The battery site is excavated into the steep bank immediately above the Buckland Valley Road. The main benched platform of the battery position is 9m x 5m, a slight trench across the site was possibly a former bed-log position. No artefacts are apparent about the site and a large eucalypt tree grows through the lower end of the site. Along the gully-side of the battery site is the water-wheel pit which is 15 metres in length and is approximately 3 metres deep at the back end. Above the pit the water-race that fed the wheel is still well defined; excavated into the hillside with an earth and stone outer wall.
Network connections: The site has a good connection to Leinster Flat and would be a short walk along the Buckland Valley Road. The site could also be tied-in with the proposed Shippen – Good Hope Water Race Track. A series of well-defined water races and sleigh tracks, currently exist in vicinity of the battery site, and are kept clear and open by cattle. These could be considerations for creating a short walk around the site.
Required Works: The site would need some minor path-clearing and blackberry and vegetation removal. Some directional and interpretive signage. A pull-over area adjacent to the road, and nearer to the Leinster Flat could also be improved for a small number of parking spaces.
• Examine the extent of site and its associated features, including tracks and water races, etc. • Clearing of blackberries, fallen timber and vegetation. • Identify and define short access route from road to site. • Installation of locality, directional, and interpretive signage.
90 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Clearing requirements 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, including fencing, etc. 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be completed as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Ore-milling and water technology themes. • Connection with social themes of Leinster Flat mining centre. • Interpretation points, content.
The site has good comparative interpretive values in association with the proposals for: • Nelson, boiler-driven battery site • Fairley’s Creek Pelton-wheel driven battery site • Red jacket, quartz mine site tunnels and associated battery sites • Wellington battery and waterwheel hub remains.
Maintenance: The site would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting.
91 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 9. Interpretation Routes and Historic Sites
92 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Old Dray Road, Fairley’s Creek. 10. Walking and Multi-use Tracks
Over a third of regional Victorian tourists are walkers. Walking or hiking has been identified as an important component to any trip to regional Victoria, with 41% of visitors to the area being ‘walkers’.26
Despite the popularity of this important nature-based activity, there are no formal walking tracks or routes within the Buckland Valley. Currently visitors to the area, undertake short walks along the various vehicle tracks, mostly along the valley floors. Popular routes are from Camp Flat to the Junction, and sections of the Buckland Valley Road in proximity to the designated camping areas.
A significant part of the Master Plan process is to examine potential for the establishment of walking and multi-use tracks. The Buckland Valley contains many kilometres of abandoned and forgotten features that naturally lend themselves to this purpose. Hundreds of kilometres of historic mining features, such as old roadways, water races, bridle and sleigh tracks, exist on all sides of the Buckland River and its main tributaries. Many kilometres of old forest management and bushfire containment tracks also exist. All provide vast opportunity for walking or multi-use routes.
10.1. Re-opening of old mining tracks, water races and roads For a number of reasons it will be important to establish the feasibility of re-opening of old mining tracks, water-races and roads :
o Ensure compliance with legislative requirements relating to flora, fauna, historical and Aboriginal heritage values. o Commitment to maintain recreational facility. o Commitment to promote the recreational facility. o Reduce the occurrence and impact of pest plants and animals within proximity to facilities. o Maintain natural track surfaces of rock and gravel. o Highlight historic features and themes associated with the infrastructure through interpretation. o Highlight physical features, such as rock walls and cutting through selective weed and vegetation removal. o Promotion of the recreational facilities is essential to their success and level of popularity.
26 Quantum Market Research, TNE Walk Tourism Segmentation, November 2018, p10.
93 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Connecting and linking all the tracks together would provide greater opportunities for a range of track users to tailor their own experience. Offering a variety of tracks creates greater opportunities for people wanting half-day, full-day or multi-day walking experiences.
10.2. Selection Criteria A range of criteria for narrowing down this selection process was adopted. Sites targeted for or field work examination needed to:
• Be in proximity to day and camping areas • Opportunities for multi-use (such as walking, horse riding, passive cycling) • Provision for access and use by a broad range of recreational activity types (river access opportunities such as fishing, swimming, etc.) • Accessibility to a wide range user group use (relatively easy grades) • Be a reasonable length from 3-5km or be able to be completed in sections of this length • Have opportunities to form loop routes • Minimal impact to environmental values • Access points for emergency service response • Opportunities for natural and cultural heritage interpretation • Minimal risks of hazards • Minimal long-term and annual maintenance requirements
Extensive fieldwork was undertaken as part of this plan examining possibilities and opportunities. Many challenges and obstacles were presented during fieldwork, often limiting or excluding opportunities for formalised public access to (or through) many localities.27 Challenges encountered included: • Rugged terrain • Sensitive historic fabric • Hazardous features, such as sluicing paddocks and pits with steep and unstable banks and cliffs • Sensitive and unstable riverbanks, often prone to flooding • Maintenance access/logistics
Despite the limitations of criteria and the physical challenges, there are many high value opportunities for the formalisation of track routes within the Buckland Valley State Forest.
For the purposes of the Master Plan, the proposed tracks are broken down into sections. There is a longer-term opportunity to create a large track route product from the series of tracks on the eastern side of the river. Grouped together it may form one length of route, commencing at the Buckland Bridge to Clear Creek. This route would have high interpretive values, both from Traditional Owner and goldfield’s heritage themes.
10.3. Long-Term Considerations If the walking/multi-use track network is to be considered a valuable component of the recreational offering in the Buckland Valley State Forest, several key management areas should be explored.
o A basic walking and multi-use track strategy, with clear long-term directions, exploring all on-ground options and considerations of potential recreational users.
27 Despite locating numerous opportunities for track routes, the challenges were many, including thick vegetation and weed cover in many localities, large areas required to be traversed in search of possible routes, numerous options with several tiers or levels of water races and tracks available for use in the same proximity. Should Lidar imagery for the Buckland Valley become available in the near future, this would greatly assist in detailed planning of potential routes. Lidar imagery would also greatly assist DELWP in a range of management scenarios. Lidar being ideally suited to identifying mine workings, sluicing pits, gully wash-outs, and numerous other features which may be a hindrance or opportunity in bushfire or other land management planning.
94 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
o Promotion of the greater Buckland Valley track network as a singular recreational offering, to a range of users, including promotion of the cultural and nature based themes of the network.
95 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
96 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.4. Western River Multi-use Track, Section 1 Location: BV00km – BV01km, western side of river. (see Map Sheet 1) Length: 1km, (One way) largely level formed route Grade: 2 (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers, horse-riding
Site Background & History: The Taungurung people have been the custodians of Country for countless generations, undertaking our cultural obligations to care for Country and ensuring the health of Country as if she is one of our own kin, ensuring visitors are safe, and understand the Lore of Country.
This area of the Buckland valley was known as ‘Lower Buckland’. The general locality saw a number of stores, hotels, and private residences. Including the Hit or Miss Hotel, the Lower Buckland school and the Police camp which was moved from Camp Flat in 1865. Along both sides of the river numerous alluvial claims were worked over the decades. These included shallow ground sluicing and deeper hydraulic sluicing. Long alluvial drives were also driven from just above river level, under the flats above the road on the western side of the valley. The Phoenix bucket dredge worked ground in between and over various claims and along the river. Commencing in vicinity of the Buckland bridge in 1903 and working its way towards Dunphy’s Creek.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Site Description and Proposal: Section 1 of this route follows an old forestry track that was re-opened during the 2019/20 bushfires. This starts at the old Buckland ‘dredge ladder’ bridge, passing the old Porepunkah water pumping station, and follows the western side of the river to the proposed BV01 Picnic Area. The route passes through shallow alluvial workings, dredge tailings and cobble heaps. It provides good access to the river for fishing and other river-based recreational activities. The route would be suitable for horse riders and walkers. Some sections would require gravel surfacing in areas of cobble-heaps and rough areas to facilitate bike riding.
Longer-term consideration for a pedestrian bridge in vicinity of the BV01 Picnic Area, providing an opportunity for a loop walk with the Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use track. Suitable for walkers, mountain bikes and horse riders.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: o Buckland Bridge Gateway o BV01 Picnic Area o Bridge - Camp Flat Multi-use Track.
Required Works: This section of the route would require very little work. Track surface forming and gravelling of some areas and directional signage. Barriers and signage will be required at each end of the track to prevent unauthorised vehicle access. Opportunities and site-specific sites of potential footbridges should be identified.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in conjunction with section 2 of the track and the BV01 Picnic Area, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Track surface preparation and gravelling 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
97 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. The formalisation of this section of track would also benefit access for weed spraying operations.
98 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.5. Western River Multi-use Track, Section 2 Location: BV01km – BV02.5km, east side of river. (see Map Sheet 1) Length: 1km (One way) Grade: 2, level surfaces (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers and horse riders
Site Background & History: This area of the Buckland Valley was known as ‘Lower Buckland’. The general locality saw a number of stores, hotels, and private residences. Including the Hit or Miss Hotel, the Lower Buckland school, and the Police camp which was moved from Camp Flat in 1865. The Macao Chinese camp was also situated in this vicinity. Along both sides of the river numerous alluvial claims were worked over the decades. These included shallow ground sluicing and deeper hydraulic sluicing. Long alluvial drives were also driven from just above river level, under the flats above the road on the western side of the valley. The Phoenix bucket dredge, commenced in vicinity of the Buckland bridge in 1903 and working its way towards Dunphy’s Creek. In more recent decades, a pine plantation was planted between the deep sluicing pits adjacent to the river and the Buckland Valley Road. This plantation was harvested in the mid 1980s and not re-planted.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Site Description and Proposal: Section 2 of this route, commencing at the proposed BV01 Picnic Area, initially follows an old forestry track used in recent decades to control weeds in the area. The track winds through relatively shallow sluice pits and tail-races. Closer to the river, deeper, hydraulic sluicing pits and associated cobble-heaps exist. Most of the areas associated with these deeper workings are covered in blackberry, broom, tea-tree and wattle, with mature stands of eucalypt. The upper level, closer to the Buckland Valley Road consist of open grass areas amidst blackberry and broom. The route approaching proposed BV02 Picnic Area, may have to negotiate some shallow alluvial workings.
This section would be less likely to have any direct river access points. It would be generally suitable for walkers and horse riders.
Some sections of this track may not be suitable for bike riding due to narrow pathway and steep banks. Considerations for inclusion of this activity should be made at the detailed planning stage.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Buckland Bridge Gateway • BV01 and BV02 Picnic Areas • Bridge - Camp Flat Multi-use Track.
At the southern end of this track, a crossing point would need to be determined to access the proposed Bridge-Camp Flat Multi-use Track. This section of the track would not be suited for a pedestrian bridge crossing, as the river flats and adjacent banks are broad, wide and generally in areas where the river course is prone to shifting during flood events.
Required Works: The southern section of the route would need to be defined. Presently blackberries and shallow sluice workings made preliminary field inspections challenging. Once a route is defined basic works would involve track surface forming and gravelling of some areas, possibly minor earth works associated with crossing mine workings, and directional signage.
99 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Barriers and signage will be required at each end of the track to prevent unauthorised vehicle access.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in conjunction with Section 1 of the track and the BV01 Picnic Area, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Consideration for inclusion of bike riding 4. Track surface preparation and gravelling 5. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 6. Works procedures and methods 7. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. The formalisation of this section of track would also benefit access for weed spraying operations.
100 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.6. Bridge – Camp Flat Walking Track, Section 1 Location: BV00km – BV02km, east side of river from bridge to opposite BV02 picnic area. (see Map Sheet 1) Length: approximately 3km (One way) Grade: 2 or 3, some steps and uneven surfaces (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walker only
Site Background & History: (See Buckland Bridge gateway for brief history of that area).
This section of track, in the vicinity of the Buckland Bridge passes through an area that has been extensively mined by shallow and deep hydraulic sluicing operations. A large sluicing pit forming a small canyon, adjacent to the bridge, on its eastern side, has worked an elevated, or stranded course of the old river bed. The name of this workings is not currently known. A number of water races were cut along the eastern side of the river. One of these upper races was cut in 1896 by the Porepunkah Hydraulic Sluicing Company operating at Brookside. The race was nine miles, 11 chains (14km) in length, commencing from near Paulussey’s mill. The specifications for the race were to be 3ft 6in. wide at the top, 2ft 6in. at the bottom and 2ft deep, 25 chains (500m) had to be flumed across gullies and workings. The locality was also a source for fuel timber for dredging operations in the locality during the early 1900s.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004. Ovens & Murray Advertiser, 27th June 1896.
General Description and Proposal: The Bridge to Camp Flat Multi-use track is divided into four sections, depending upon the activity user groups that will be able to access the relative section, and the type of feature along which the proposed route would pass (usually either water-race or old forestry track). This is done so that the Master Plan may ultimately choose only one or multiple sections of the route, depending upon budget, public interest, maintenance or other factors. It also helps for future planning proposals associated with the route. The proposed track is divided into the following sections:
• Section 1 – from the Buckland Bridge gateway to a deep, unnamed gully nearly opposite proposed BV02 Picnic Area. The first section is through, or around a deep hydraulic sluicing pit (which could form short interpretative walk in its own right), thence along an abandoned water-race. This section would be suitable for walkers only. • Section 2 – continuing south from the unnamed gully nearly opposite BV02 Picnic Area to just south of Lamber Gully. A short link track would need to be created to provide access for horse riders. This section would be mostly along an abandoned water-race and would be suitable for horse rider and walkers. • Section 3 – continuing south from Lamber Gully the track transfers from the water race onto a series of fire-breaks and forestry roads to Ma Look’s Flat, opposite Ah Young’s camping area. All excepting one overgrown section, is currently open. This section suitable for walkers and horse riders. • Section 4 – continuing from Ma Looks Flat, opposite Ah Young’s Flat to Camp Flat. This section is along an open and established four-wheel drive track. This section suitable for walkers and horse riders.
Combined, these sections would form a route between the Buckland bridge and Camp Flat approximately 8km in length. The route would provide good recreational opportunities for walkers and horse riders.
101 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Section 1 Description: Opportunity to create a walking track from the Buckland bridge to opposite the proposed BV02 Picnic Area on the eastern side of the river. From the old bridge, the route would pass through or around a deep hydraulic sluicing paddock (both options requiring a short run of steps). There may also be an opportunity to provide a short interpretive walk within this sluicing pit. Above the sluicing paddock, the route would follow an upper water race passing to BV01 picnic area. There may be an opportunity to provide a pedestrian bridge towards the southern end of this section, forming a loop track. This section of the track would not be suitable for horses.
On crossing the old Buckland ’dredge-ladder’ Bridge, the track could pass through an impressive hydraulic sluicing pit, winding briefly through high banks, cobble-heaps, tail–races and tall tree-ferns. The route would then follow one of the several upper water races, upstream. These water-races range from approximately 20 to 40 metres in elevation above the river, gaining views of the lower Buckland and the Buffalo Range. Water races in places are excavated into bedrock and retained with dry-stone walls. A service path was usually created along the top of the lower, retaining-wall-side of the larger races. This was used by service crews (sometimes on horse-back), to regularly inspect and maintain these critical pieces of infrastructure. This path, in most instances, would form the basis of any proposed track. On approaching and crossing gullies extensive stone-walling is found, this is often visually spectacular when looking across narrow gullies at multiple levels of stone-walled water-races.
Section 1 of this route, commencing at the Buckland Bridge Gateway, mostly follows one of the upper races into a gully just south of proposed BV02 Picnic Area. A potential link track, crossing the river, would be required to give access to horse rider from the proposed Western River Multi-use Track.
Sections of this track may not be suitable for bike riding due to narrow pathway and steep banks.
Longer-term Potential: This route, combined with the Camp Flat – Junction Interpretive Route, and Junction – Clear Creek Multi-use Track, has the potential to form a greater Buckland Interpretation Trail, highlighting Traditional Owner and goldfield’s heritage of the valley. This 8km walk has the potential to be attractive to range of walkers and horse riders.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Buckland Bridge Gateway • BV02 Picnic Area • Western River Multi-use Track.
At the southern end of this track, a crossing point would need to be determined to access the proposed Western River Multi-use Track. This section of the track would not be suited for a pedestrian bridge crossing, as the river flats and adjacent banks are broad, wide and generally in areas where the river course is prone to shifting during flood events.
There may also be an opportunity to provide a footbridge half-way along this section in vicinity of BV01 Picnic area. The access alignment from the river to the track would need to be determined.
Required Works: Section 1 of the Bridge to Camp Flat, would require a higher level of implementation than most of the other proposed routes. However, given its proximity to the Buckland Bridge gateway and potential connection to Camp Flat and beyond, as well as its historical features and values, it has the potential to become a popular section of track.
A series of steps would be required to access the hydraulic sluicing pit and the upper water- race. Some fencing of steep banks may also be required. Once at the level of the water- race, some level of clearing of the corridor along the former wall-service-path would be
102 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks needed. Many sections of these paths are relatively open, due either to the creation of animal pathways along these routes, or drier conditions, not being favorable to vegetation growth. Some path forming, restoration works may be required in gully crossings. Short- spanning footbridges may also be considered.28
Barriers and signage will be required at each end of the track to prevent unauthorized vehicle access.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in conjunction with Section 1 of the track and the BV01 Picnic Area, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Track surface preparation and gravelling 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has limited management vehicle access and maintenance would need to be conducted on foot.
Upper water-race on Section 1 of proposed Bridge – Camp Flat track, showing former maintenance pathway along top of wall.
28 A good example of a walking track associated with an abandoned mining water –race is the Cobungra Ditch Walking Track at Mount Hotham. This track shows the relatively minimal method of path alignment, construction and maintenance which would be required.
103 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Deep canyon-like sluicing pit, adjacent to Buckland bridge, at the beginning of Section 1 of proposed Bridge – Camp Flat track.
104 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.7. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 2 Location: BV01km – BV02km, east of river, BV02 picnic area to Lamber Gully. (see Map Sheet 2) Length: 1.2km (One way) Grade: 3, some uneven surfaces (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walker and horse-riders
Site Background & History: (See previous).
Track Description & Proposal: Section 2 of Multi-use track from opposite proposed BV02 Picnic Area on the east side of the river to Lamber Gully. The route would continue to follow an upper water race from opposite BV02 picnic area. This would be a good section of to continue the horse riding route from the Western River Share-use Track.
Some sections of water-race are better than others, and any proposed alignment may have to switch between levels. Some sections of race have also been filled with earth, forming level dray roads. This was possibly done to facilitate the carting of fuel-timber from the hillsides above to the dredges working the river flats below. These sections also provide good opportunities for the proposed track routes.
Sections of this track may not be suitable for bike riding due to narrow pathway and steep banks.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Buckland Bridge Gateway • BV02 Picnic Area • Western River Multi-use Track.
Required Works: This section would require some level of clearing of vegetation along the corridor of the former wall-service-path. Many sections of these paths are relatively open, due either to the creation of animal pathways along these routes, or drier conditions, not being favorable to vegetation growth. Some path forming, restoration works may be required in gully crossings. Short-spanning footbridges may also be considered.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in conjunction with Section 1 of the track and the BV01 Picnic Area, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Track surface preparation and gravelling 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 5. Works procedures and methods 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has limited management vehicle access and maintenance would need to be conducted on foot.
105 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
Water-race on Section 2 of proposed Bridge – Camp Flat track, showing stone retaining wall.
Water-race between Sections 2 and 3 of proposed Bridge – Camp Flat track.
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10.8. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 3 Location: BV02km – BV3.5km, east of river, Lamber Gully -Ah Youngs. (see Map Sheet 2) Length: 2km (One way) Grade: 2, formed track (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers and horse-riders
Site Background & History: (See previous).
Track Description & Proposal: Section 3 of the proposed walking track from Lamber Gully on the east side of the river to Ma Looks Flat, opposite Ah Youngs camping area. Continuing south from Lamber Gully, the route diverts from the water race, onto a section of firebreak that continues up the spur line between Lamber and Joe Sear gullies. Following the firebreak, a short distance down, the track would continue along a level and currently cleared, forestry road/break for approximately 400 metres. From here the road becomes overgrown for a distance of approximately 500 metres, where it meets with the cleared four-wheel drive track from Camp Flat. The route, continuing south, is 1km to Ma Look’s Flat, opposite Ah Young’s camping area. A short route down to the river has been closed, but could be re-opened, and made accessible to walkers and horse riders.
There are some longer-term opportunities to consider a pedestrian bridge, in the vicinity. Appropriate locations may be found a short distance up or downstream.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Buckland Bridge Gateway • Ah Youngs camping area • Camp Flat.
Required Works: The majority of this track section is currently open. A 500 metre section of old road in the middle requires clearing of vegetation. The section of firebreak approaching the water-race (Section 2) would require some grading for horse riders. The section of track crossing the river linking with Ah Young’s would require reforming and be made suitable for horse riders.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in separately of in conjunction with Section 4 of the track, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Track surface requirements 4. Considerations for bike riding 5. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 6. Works procedures and methods 7. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be completed as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It would have good management vehicle access.
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10.9. Bridge – Camp Flat Multi-use Track, Section 4 Location: BV05.5km – BV07.5km, east side of river Ma Looks to Camp Flat. (see Map Sheet 2) Length: 2.5km (One way) Grade: 2, level surfaces (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers and horse-riders
Site Background & History: (See previous).
Track Description & Proposal: Section of walking track from Ma Look’s Flat, opposite Ah Youngs to Camp Flat on the east side of the river to Camp Flat. The route would follow the existing four-wheel drive track between the localities. Numerous historic gold mining features exists on both side of this track, including quartz reef mining workings, shallow sluice paddocks and deeper hydraulic sluicing pits. Some river access is available at Joe Sears Gully.
Barriers and signage will be required at the Camp Flat end of the track to prevent unauthorized vehicle access, particularly trail bikes.
There are some longer-term opportunities to consider a pedestrian bridge, in the vicinity of Camp Flat. Appropriate locations may be found a short distance downstream.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Ah Youngs camping area • Camp Flat.
Required Works: All of this track section is currently open.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared in in conjunction with Section 3 of the track, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents 2. Initial access points and routes 3. Track surface requirements 4. Considerations for bike riding 5. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc 6. Works procedures and methods 7. Breakdown of estimated costings
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It would have good management vehicle access.
108 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.10. Telecom Multi-use Track Location: BV05.5km – BV07km, west side of Buckland Valley Road. (see Map Sheet 2) Length: 1.2km (One way) Grade: 2, level surfaces (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers and horse riders
Site Background & History: The stretch of Buckland Valley Road between Murray’s and Fairley’s creeks has seen many changes since the first gold rush of 1853. The locality where Murray’s Creek meets the Buckland river, known as Maguire’s Point, was the location of the first gold discovery. From that time on, this portion of the Buckland saw an evolution of dwellings and stores from canvas tents, bark huts, log cabins and weather-board buildings. On the lower side of the road, the gold-bearing gravels of a former and buried river channel, known as the Wham Poa Lead were worked via shafts tunnels and hydraulic sluicing.
On the west side of the road, along the stretch of track created for the laying of the telephone communications cable, was the Robinson house. Some of this area was planted with pines, possibly in the early 1970s. Sections of this plantation remain adjoining Fairley’s Creek. During the early 1980s a telephone cable was laid beneath this track for properties at Twelve Mile and further up on the east side of the river towards the Junction. It probably is still in service to the property at the Twelve Mile.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
Track Description and Proposal: Creation of a multi-use track on the western side of the Buckland Valley Road, forming a pedestrian and horse riding access route between Ah Youngs and Camp Flat camping areas. A short link rack between Ah Youngs, across the Buckland Valley Road will need to be formed. Currently a significant length of the Telecom track is heavily overgrown with post- bushfire regrowth. Mine shafts are present in close proximity to the road and track. Towards Fairley’s Creek, the track follows the bottom lower edge of the pine planation, above the Buckland Valley Road. On crossing the creek, the track continues on the top side of the road to the Twelve Mile.
Advantages: Accessible to a range of user types. All year access. Good, off the main road access. Disadvantages: adjacent to the main road, noise and dust issues.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Ah Young’s camping area • Fairley’s Creek Mine Walk • Camp Flat.
Required Works: This track would require substantial earth works and re-growth clearing. Considerations to any buried communications services beneath track. This route would provide challenges in excluding unauthorized vehicle access.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. Initial access points and routes. 3. Track surface requirements. 4. Considerations for bike riding 5. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Mine-shaft mesh-grate covers.
109 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
6. Works procedures and methods. 7. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It would have good management vehicle access.
110 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.11. Junction to Clear Creek Multi-Use Track Location: BV10.5km – BV13km, east side of river. (see Map Sheet 3) Length: 2.8km (One way) Grade: 2/3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers and horse riders
Site Background & History: This stretch of river passes through many historic goldfields features and places. The old dray road would have been the main connecting thoroughfare between the Junction and Clear Creek. It may have been constructed, or at least upgraded with the discovery of the rich mines in the Clear Creek Valley, such at the Red jacket in 1867. Its construction been suitable for the carting of heavy crushing machinery required for that locality.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004.
Track Description and Proposal: The creation of a Multi-use track from the Junction to Clear Creek, along a well-formed, level and picturesque route. Stone retained and excavated into bedrock in places. A great route for walkers and riders, providing pedestrian access into the Clear Creek area. The route passes shallow and deep hydraulic sluice workings and associated cobble-heaps and tail-races. Good viewing up and down the valley and along the river. Some deep mineshafts occur along the route.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Camp- Flat – Junction Interpretive Route • Junction Picnic Area • King’s Ditch Walking Track.
Required Works: This track would require blackberry and vegetation removal along sections of the track. Blackberry and scrub is heavy at either end of the track, whilst some long sections remain relatively clear. Track alignment in Mac’s Creek would need to be clarified, presently heavy blackberry growth. A short footbridge may also be required.
Barriers and signage will be required at either end of the track to prevent unauthorized vehicle access, particularly trail bikes.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. Initial access points and routes. 3. Considerations for bike riding. 4. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Mine-shaft mesh-grate covers 5. Works procedures and methods. 6. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has limited management vehicle access. Generally, foot access only, or perhaps a light rough terrain vehicle.
111 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.12. King’s Ditch Walking Track Location: BV10.5km – BV13km, west of Buckland Valley Road. (see Map Sheet 3) Length: 2.3km (One way) Grade: 2 or 3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers (and experienced horse riders?)
Site Background & History: On the hillside above Scotchman’s Creek Track turn-off and overlooking the Junction, is the site of King’s ditch or water-race. This was cut in 1898 (along an earlier race), to provide water to drive the Fairley’s Creek Gold Mining Company’s 30 head battery. This water-race was possibly named after the manager of the company at the time, a Mr. D. S. King. Originally in this vicinity contemporary records and photographs show an earlier timber flume race spanning the right branch. King’s race however used a large steel siphon running down the hillside, then up the other side of the range to convey the water across the valley. The piping has long been removed; though the sites of the inlet and outlet point of the siphon still remain.
References: Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Track Description and Proposal: The proposed track would require an access track from the intersection of Scotchman’s Creek track and the Buckland Valley Road. Several water-races exist on the hillside; however, King’s Ditch is the largest and has the most substantial service path along its outer wall. The path is generally clear and kept open by cattle. Stone-retained for much of its length. The route has views of the upper Buckland Valley. It passes several quartz-reef workings and their associated mullock-heaps. At a number of points, tramways and sleigh tracks pass the race, proving different access point to the Buckland Valley Road below. The race crosses a gully 700 metres south of the junction, where many visually spectacular dry- stone walls and workings are visible.
A good short walk, or loop in conjunction with Junction – Clear Creek Dray Road for visitors picnicking at the Junction or camping in the Clear Creek area.29
Sections of this track may not be suitable for bike and horse riding due to narrow pathway steep banks.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities, including: • Junction Picnic Area • Junction - Clear Creek Dray Track.
Required Works: This track would require some vegetation removal along sections of the race. Some minor clearing of debris would be required at places, particularly areas associated with gully erosion. Access points at either end would need to be formalised and simple barriers and signage required to exclude trail bikes.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. Initial access points and routes. 3. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Adit portal and mine shafts may require mesh/grate covers.
29 Much Longer term, should the route become popular, access to the Nelson Mine could be facilitated by continuing the route along one of the water races from Nelson Creek.
112 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
4. Works procedures and methods. 5. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has limited management vehicle access though opportunities for access points via sleigh tracks and tramways from the Buckland Valley Road. Generally, foot access only.
King’s Ditch service track, between the Junction and Clear Creek.
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10.13. Shippen’s Flat to Leinster Flat Walking Track Location: BV17km – BV19.5Km, north-east side of river. (see Map Sheet 5) Length: 2.4km (One way) Grade: 2 or 3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers (possibility of bike and horse riders?)
Site Background & History: The water race for this route possibly serviced the sluicing workings and other mining operations adjacent to the river. The New Chum Gully contains a number of different quartz reef workings, some of which included the Patrick, New Chum, Motor, Clontarf Simmon’s and Allendale reefs. From the 1870s a substantial population lived in vicinity of the mines. In 1898, a 12-head stamp battery was erected nearby, driven by a 32-foot diameter waterwheel. The plant was still in operation in 1908.
References: Talbot, D. & Swift, A, The Buckland Valley Goldfield, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A, Historic Mining Sites Survey, Buckland Valley, Bushfire Recovery Program, Parks Victoria, Dept. Sustainability & Environment. July 2004.
Track Description and Proposal: This picturesque route is on the north-eastern side of the river. The northern 1 kilometre section, between Shippen’s Flat and the proposed BV19 camping area, is along an old dray/forestry road. This short section would be suitable for bike and horse riders, however, the southern section along the narrow water-race may not be suitable.
The southern section, between BV19 and Leinster Flat is partially along a well-defined service path on the retaining wall of a water race and through an open woodland forest. This route has good access points to the river as well as interpretation values.
This route is generally well-defined and mostly open, with only small areas of light vegetation cover. The water race is defined, excepting a small wash-out in a gully. This route has good interpretation values. This route generally would not be suitable for horse riders due to steep banks and vulnerable historic features associated with the retaining walls along sections of the water race.
Access from to the water race would be from the north end of the flat. There are several options for a pedestrian bridge to cross the river up and downstream of the flat.
This track, in conjunction with the connection to Shippen’s Flat, has the potential to be a popular well-used track, particularly by campers in this upper area of the Buckland Valley.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities and existing facilities, including: • Shippen’s Flat • Proposed BV01 Camping area • Leinster Flat Camping Area • Good Hope Flat Camping Area • Return route via the Shippen – Good Hope water-race track.
Required Works: This track would require some vegetation removal along sections of the water race. Some minor clearing of debris may be required at places, particularly areas associated with gully erosion. Access points at either end would need to be formalised and simple barriers and signage required to exclude trail bikes. Suitable sites for potential pedestrian bridges would need to be identified during detailed site planning.
114 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. Initial access points and routes. 3. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Adit portal and mine shafts may require mesh/grate covers. 4. Works procedures and methods. 5. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process. • Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has no management vehicle access, foot access only.
Buckland River, running below Shippen’s Flat.
115 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.14. Leinster Flat to Good Hope Flat Walking Track Location: BV19.5km – BV20Km, north side of river. (see Map Sheet 5) Length: 600m (One way) Grade: 2, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: See previous
Track Description & Proposal: Picturesque route partially along a well-defined service path on the retaining wall of a water race and through an open woodland forest. This route has good access points to the river as well as interpretation values.
This route is generally well-defined and mostly open, with only small areas of light vegetation cover. The water race is defined, excepting a small wash-out in a gully. This route has good interpretation values. This route would not be suitable for horse-riders.
Access from to the water race would be from the north end of the flat. There are several options for a pedestrian bridge to cross the river up and downstream of the flat.
This track, in conjunction with the connection to Shippen’s Flat, has the potential to be a popular well-used track, particularly by campers in this upper area of the Buckland Valley.
Network connections: The site has a direct and close associated connection to a number of proposed facilities and existing facilities, including; • Shippen’s Flat • Proposed BV01 Camping area • Leinster Flat Camping Area • Good Hope Flat Camping Area • Return route via the Shippen – Good Hope water-race track
Required Works: This track would require some vegetation removal along sections of the water race. Some minor clearing of debris may be required at places, particularly areas associated with gully erosion. Access points at either end would need to be formalised and simple barriers and signage required to exclude trail bikes. Suitable sites for potential pedestrian bridges would need to be identified during detailed site planning.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including; 6. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents, 7. initial access points and routes 8. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Adit portal and mine shafts may require mesh/grate covers. 9. Works procedures and methods 10. Breakdown of estimated costings
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document, and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process • Background history • interpretation points, content
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush-cutting. It has no management vehicle access, foot-access only.
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Water Race on north-east side of Buckland River, Good Hope Flat.
117 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 10. Walking and Multi-Use Tracks
10.15. Shippen’s to Good Hope Walking Track Location: BV17km – BV19Km, west side of Buckland Valley Road. (see Map Sheet 5) Length: Approximately 3km (One way) Grade: 2 or 3, level surfaces, some steps? (Australian Walking Track Grading System) Use: Walkers
Site Background & History: This water race may be the upper section of King’s Ditch. See previous
Track Description & Proposal: This proposed route would provide a return loop in conjunction with the proposed Shippen’s – Leinster and Good Hope track on the north side of the river. This route would follow a well- defined water-race above the Buckland Valley Road. From the western, lower valley end, the track could commence at the Miners Right School Site, continuing south along the water race to Leinster Flat, passing the camping areas of Shippen’s, BV19, and Leinster. At Leinster Flat there is a good track connecting with the camping area. Further south the track could be continued to Good Hope Flat, either along the water races, or sections of old road that were identified during preliminary field work inspections.30
Sections of this track may not be suitable for bike riding due to narrow pathway and steep banks.
Many sections of the water-race are heavily overgrown with blackberries and vegetation, whilst other areas are comparatively clear and open and regularly used by cattle and wildlife.
Network connections: The site has a direct and closely associated connection to a number of proposed facilities and existing facilities, including: • Shippen’s Flat • Proposed BV01 Camping area • Leinster Flat Camping Area • Good Hope Flat Camping Area • Loop circuit via the Shippen’s – Leinster – Good Hope track.
Required Works: This track would require vegetation and weed removal along sections of the water race. Some minor clearing of debris may be required at places, particularly areas associated with gully erosion. Access points at either end would need to be formalised and simple barriers and signage required to exclude trail bikes. Identify specific sites for potential pedestrian bridges.
A brief Works Plan should be prepared, outlining in detail any proposed scope of works, including: 1. Permit requirements, exemptions or consents. 2. Initial access points and routes. 3. Identify hazards and plan mitigation strategies, etc. Adit portal and mine shafts may require mesh/grate covers. 4. Works procedures and methods. 5. Breakdown of estimated costings.
A brief Interpretation Plan could also be combined into the above document and should also be compiled as part of this preliminary planning process.
30 The length of this water-race was not able to be fully traversed due to heavy cover of blackberries in several locations. Time constraints did not allow for the slashing of blackberries for survey purposes.
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• Background history. • Interpretation points, content.
Maintenance: This section of the track would require an annual inspection, clearing of any fallen timber and minor brush cutting. It has no management vehicle access, foot access only.
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Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 11. Interpretation & Presentation
Phoenix dredge, Lower Buckland. (Bright & District Historical Society collection) 11. Interpretation & Presentation Interpretation and presentation of Indigenous culture and goldfield’s heritage and history was identified as an important component of the community feedback for the master plan. Interpretation plays an important role for Taungurung Traditional Owners, local communities, and visitors to participate in, engage and understand the Buckland Valley landscape.
The Buckland Valley provides many ecological and cultural narratives for interpretation and presentation; however, it is the stories of relationships between people and nature that define the underlying narrative of the Taungurung cultural landscape. These stories provide us with opportunities to personally engage the audience with geographic-based information and experiences. Ultimately giving us a deeper connection and understating of the place.
Interpretation and presentation of the landscape can take many forms, from printed guidebooks and notes, digital platforms, guides tours and information signs at sites.
Interpretation and Presentation Plan It will be important to prepare an Interpretation and Presentation Plan, to guide and address a host of opportunities and challenges. The plan should include:
o What messages, information or values are sought, understand the audience expectations. o Identify sites, locations and landscapes. o Examine the principal cultural and historic themes. o Channels of learning, on-site signage, general signage, field notes, guides, web content, etc. o Experience and understand, engage, reveal and provoke. o Signage Infrastructure design, placement and accessibility. o Maintenance.
The principal cultural themes are Aboriginal cultural heritage and goldfield’s heritage. Both offer strong opportunities to highlight ethnic and cultural diversity. The Buckland Valley is a landscape of untold stories of human habitation and the relationships between people, nature and its resources.
11.1. A Shared Landscape The interpretation plan is potentially a powerful tool in seeking shared messages and opportunities for reconciliation. Opportunities to research positive cultural exchanges between Aboriginals and early gold miners should be sought.
Comparisons of relationships with the landscape, highlighting similar cultural connections (and differences), giving a sense of a shared landscape.
121 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
11.2. Indigenous Culture The most important cultural influence on the Buckland and surrounds is Indigenous cultural heritage. This connection is strong and on-going,
Interpretation of the landscape will be undertaken in partnership with the Taungurung Land and Waters Council. Key objectives should be in alignment with TLaWC policies, Strategic Plan31 and Taungurung Country Plan32. • Recognise Taungurung connection to Country. • Engage and encourage Taungurung people to take an active role in decision- making discussions on all aspects of Country. • Protect and further build on Taungurung Traditional knowledge about land, waterways, food, flora and fauna, and medicines. • Strengthen the use of Taungurung language, spoken and written. • Identify and protect Taungurung cultural heritage. • Increasing access to Country for continued cultural practice, including hunting and gathering, ceremonies and healing with youth, Elders and families. • Caring for and Healing Country.
Hydraulic Sluicing, Buckland Valley. (E. R. Weston Family collection, D. Weston) 11.3. Goldfields Heritage Goldfield’s heritage is an important cultural influence in the mountain ranges of eastern Victoria; a European cultural influence that has happened on Taungurung country. Gold mining is the strongest cultural influence from the mid-1850s to the early 1900s. The Buckland Valley is a well-preserved early gold mining area. The remnant sites, ruins and landscapes are evidence of that influence, and their presentation would provide a better understanding of the important role mining has had on the places we are familiar with today. Presentation of historic mining sites would also assist with the long-term conservation of heritage values, through the development of sustainable use. Some important goldfield’s themes include:
o High cultural significance for the anti-Chinese Buckland Riot of 1857. o Understanding of hardships of living and working in a remote and harsh environment. o Human dimension of mining activities. o Range of mining site types, quartz reefing and machinery, alluvial diggings, alluvial hydraulic sluicing. o Early diggings camps to townships. o Cultural diversity, religious and social.
There has been a long and relatively strong community connection to historic mining sites within the Buckland Valley. There is an increasing number of sites being visited, explored,
31 http://taungurung.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/TCAC_StrategicPlan_FINAL.pdf 32 https://taungurung.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Taungurung_Country-Plan.pdf
122 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 11. Interpretation & Presentation
photographed and recorded by individuals and groups.33 Displays and collections at local museums, related specifically to the Buckland Goldfield. Both the Bright and Harrietville historical societies have expressed an interest in assisting with any goldfield’s interpretation of the Buckland.
Bucket-dredge ladders beneath the 1929 Buckland Bridge.
11.4. Other Themes Ecological interpretation opportunities also exist within the vegetation areas of montane, woodland and riparian zones. Geology, water and topography also provide important educational opportunities. Consideration should be given to adding human association with these ecological values, providing more relevance and engaging a broader audience. Other minor historical themes are also relevant to the Buckland Valley and include exploration, cattle-grazing, timber harvesting and forestry, and early tourism and recreation.
11.5. Geographic Place Names The proposal of new facilities in this master plan (such as picnic and camping areas, walking and multi-use tracks), leaves open opportunities for the official registration and naming of these features and places. For the purposes of this plan, generic naming descriptions have been given, unless specific naming is already attributed to these localities. This leaves open the opportunities for Taungurung Traditional Owners and communities to consider and provide any knowledge about place names for these localities.
The naming of roads, features and localities in the landscape provides many practical outcomes, particularly in identifying specific locations for a range of reasons.
The principles behind place naming localities and features in the Buckland valley include: • Ensuring public safety - emergency service response and easy navigation for the public. • Recognizing public interest – long term benefits for the community. • Linking the name to place – relevance of name to the local area, with preferences for unofficial community names, including Aboriginal culture or historic goldfield’s names. • Recognition and use of Aboriginal languages – is encouraged, subject to consultation with relevant Traditional Owner group(s).
Geographic Names Victoria is the official government authority that oversees the naming of roads, features and localities in Victoria. There are naming rules and statutory requirements
33 In some instances, illegal removal of artefacts and damage to fabric occurs. Implementation of any inoperative strategy/plan for the Buckland should highlight the importance of these places to all people, and that these paces are protected under the Victorian Heritage Act 2017.
123 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities in Victoria which are outlined in the ‘Naming rules for places in Victoria (2016)34, and the Geographic Places Names Act 1998.
34 https://www.land.vic.gov.au/place-naming/first-time-here/about-geographic-names-victoria
124 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
12. Implementation Planning & Priorities
This Master Plan is provided as an implementation-ready guide for when funding opportunities arise. Facilities should be prioritized, so actions can be readily put in place for detailed planning and implementation.
An implementation strategy should be provided to guide ‘Stage 2’ of the Master Plan. It should specify the planning and construction of proposed infrastructure over a period of time. It should also provide cost estimates to help source funding opportunities.
The infrastructure recommendations of the Master Plan can be broken down into the following areas: ❖ Upgrades to existing facilities, mostly in designated camping areas. ❖ Gateway day-visitor picnic area. ❖ Picnic areas. ❖ A new designated camping area. ❖ Interpretive routes and historic sites. ❖ Walking and Multi-use Tracks.
Once funding opportunities have been confirmed, objectives for the final planning and implementation of facilities, will require several stages of planning. 1. Field and site inspections. 2. Planning and detailed design. 3. Implementation and staging.
Field and site inspection objectives, to: • Confirm the extent of area, or final alignment of track. • Identify scope of works, detailing types of works required such as weed removal, path forming, restoration works, etc. • Identify logistics (such as access, delivery of materials, etc.) of the scope of works. • Identify locations of infrastructure, such as directional signage, footbridges, boardwalks. • Identify historic sites, cultural places that may have interpretation values. • Hazard and risk assessment, such as mine shafts and workings, steep banks, trees, etc.
125 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
Bucket dredge operating in the upper Buckland River. (Bright & District Historical Society collection)
12.1. Environmental Management Assess and understand risks to any ecological or cultural and historic values from recreational activities and construction associated with implementation of the Master Plan. Identify key values, such as native vegetation, threatened species, aquatic habitats, landscape values, Aboriginal and historic places.
There will also be aspects of construction and the establishment of infrastructure that may well be required to meet Commonwealth and State Legislation. An assessment will need to be taken as part of the planning process to determine which approvals, processes and consents will be required.
12.2. Maintenance and Resourcing During the evaluation and planning of any new infrastructure, amenities, and walking track infrastructure, consideration must be given as to how these places will be maintained and funded.
The cost of maintenance of recreational facilities can be significant. Considerable expenditure is currently used for the maintenance of existing recreational facilities in the Buckland Valley, including maintaining, pumping and clearing of toilet facilities, cleaning of rubbish from fireplaces and the general up-keep in the designated camping areas, removal of hazardous trees, and the replacement of infrastructure, such as signage from vandalism. Any of the proposals in this Master Plan would add to the existing maintenance schedule.
126 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
Ritchie’s store and post office, Buckland Lower. (Ritchie family collection. Buckland Valley Goldfield)
12.3. Structural Design Style Guidelines Consideration for a particular architectural style could be adopted. This would consider building designs and use of materials which are sympathetic to the landscape and are consistent across the recreational area. They could also utilise design features that reflect the key themes of the valley. Use of existing DEWLP infrastructure, materials and architectural style should be incorporated into any guidelines.
Practical design and use of materials should be the primary considerations in any infrastructure design. Some consideration would include: o Durability of intended use o Suitability against environmental elements o Resistance to pests and animals o Bushfire rated materials o Ease of maintenance o Vandal resistance
Secondary consideration when formalizing design guidelines for infrastructure should include: o Types of building materials o Colour palette o Architectural form
Structural design style could apply to any number of infrastructure types including: o Toilets o Shelters o Fencing o Interpretive and general forest-user Information signage infrastructure o Pedestrian bridges and board walks o Picnic tables and seating
12.4. Emergency Management Emergency management should be an important consideration in the planning of any new infrastructure, such as walking/multi-use tracks and visitor areas. Accurate identification of geographic location and ready access to that location are key components of any emergency response scenario. Clear identification and consistency of place names on information signage, location signage and maps is critical. Accurate location identification is critical for
127 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities communication between facility users and emergency response agencies. Key considerations are: o Registration of place names with Vicnames and Vicmap data. o Placement of locality signage at key infrastructure areas. o Provision for Track Marker numbering along all multi-use recreational routes. o Consideration for addition of ESTA35 Emergency Markers at key locations, for emergency service ‘triple 000’ response.
35 Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority. Even without mobile direct coverage, these markers provide fixed reference points in the landscape, which have mapped routes for emergency response.
128 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
12.5. Connectivity of Proposed and Existing Facilities Direct Accessibility to Direct Accessibility to Historic Sites Direct Accessibility to Camping Areas Picnic Areas Proposed Walking & Multi-use Tracks
Proposed Facility Principal Activities Interpretive Routes
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Multi Multi-use Track Kings Ditch Walking track Shippen – Leinster Flat Walking track Leinster - Good Hope Walking track Shippen _ Good Hope Walking track
129 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 12. Implementation Planning and Priorities
130 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 13. Access
13. Access
The provision for access or accessibility to the Buckland Valley takes several forms; principally road access and the accessibility of information prior to departure and once on location.
13.1. Road Access and Conditions General regional road access to the Buckland is fairly straight forward via the Great Alpine Road. Navigation to the valley is well represented on maps and in regional promotional material. Regional Roads Victoria, (VicRoads) the managing road authority for the Great Alpine Road, has clear signage at the entry-point to the valley at the Porepunkah round- about.
The Buckland Valley Road is managed by the Alpine Shire Council. The road is sealed to the new Buckland Valley Bridge, 12.4km from the Porepunkah round-about. Beyond the bridge the road is largely gravel36, and is regularly graded and maintained by the ASC to Miner’s Right, where it changes name to the Buckland River Road managed by DELWP..
Conditions to the gravel surface of the road vary significantly and are largely dependent upon environmental conditions, vehicle numbers and driver behavior.
Feedback from local residents and visitors has indicated a number of areas of concern for the Buckland Valley Road, including general improvements to road, speed limitations, and dust.
Specific recommendations for the Buckland Valley Road include:
Road sealing, bridge to cemetery - this section of road has a significant proportion of adjoining residential properties, and the greatest volume of traffic. Sealing would reduce, wear-and-tear of vehicles, dust, and reduce risk of road-surface related accidents.
Speed limits – suitable reduction of speed limits should be applied to different sections of the road. Considerations should be: residential areas, activity areas (picnic and camping areas), windy, narrow and gravel sections. Reduction in speed will also reduce dust and the risk of road-surface related accidents.
Dust – adjacent to residential and activity areas will be reduced with road sealing works. In activity areas away from residential locations, the forming of road surfaces with gravel types that reduce dust may be considered. Other recommendations for vegetation screening are addressed in specific recommendations of this Master Plan.
36 Short sections of road are sealed with bitumen; just beyond the bridge, at the Buckland Cemetery, Twelve-Mile and Miners Right.
131 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 13. Access
Visibility – is another improvement that should be considered on windy and narrow sections of road. Visibility can be enhanced through regular vegetation removal on road verges and banks. Bank excavation on acute bends may also improve sight-lines. Convex mirrors may be a consideration under specific circumstances.
Clear Creek, Buckland Valley Road intersection - visibility and tight-turning challenges occur here, with vehicles exiting or entering to the south, on the Buckland Valley Road. A turn-around area and signage should be considered.
Advisory and Regulatory Signage – Consideration for hazard signs, to highlight to approaching traffic, a marked change in the direction of travel, and the presence and width of an obstruction.
DELWP and the ASC, have a shared responsibility for the Buckland Valley Road. A plan for road upgrades and improvements would address specific locations and opportunities for the issues mentioned above. All specific recommendations should be prioritized. All planning should be in accordance with appropriate standards and guides of road design and regulations, including the DELWP and Parks Road Management Plan 2019.37
Kilometre Markers Kilometre markers are placed along the edge of the Buckland Valley Road, commencing at the Buckland Bridge, as the zero datum. These have been established for forest management purposes, in particular, for identifying positions of larger vehicles on the road to other road-users, via a radio communications system. This system also offers a good reference to assist the general public in determining their location and proximity to facilities. The markers also provide means to identify the location of incidents and emergencies. This system should be maintained and highlighted as part of a general public road management strategy.
13.2. Signage Strategy Signage is a vital component of recreational areas. It orientates users and creates confidence that they are heading in the right direction or arriving at their chosen destination.
A brief signage strategy would form a component of planning for new recreational facilities.
Signage should meet user expectations and current standards. The DWELP State Forest Sign Manual should be used as the principal guide.
Signage Groups; • General forest-user information • Specific Buckland Valley State Forest recreational facility information • Location/Place Identifying (Identity) • Directional/Wayfinding • Interpretive
General forest-user information signage will inform visitors that they are Welcome on Taungurung Country and ask that Country and heritage are respected. It should also clarify and communicate adequate information to specific user groups about legislative requirements for certain activities.
37 https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0026/439109/DELWP-PV-Road-Management-Plan-2019.pdf
132 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 13. Access
13.3. Promotion and Publicity Adequate communication on how to access the Buckland Valley and its recreational activities is an important consideration. Adequate communication of information about how to find the Buckland Valley State Forest, and what recreational products it offers will help meet the needs and expectations of all visitors.
Some might argue the Buckland Valley doesn’t require any publicity, however, providing clear messaging and information will benefit everyone; including new or return-visitors, residents, land managers, emergency services, Traditional Owners, and even ecological and cultural values.
There are any number of official ways where information can be accessed, key web platforms are: o More to Explore app (DELWP)38 o Victoria’s High Country (Tourism North East)39 o Bright & Surrounds (Alpine Shire)40
Other more direct opportunities include the regional High Country Visitor Information Centre network, local business, and information centres outside the region, including Melbourne.
Social media avenues also offer opportunities to provide updated information to interested parties, such as the DELWP Hume Facebook page.
38 https://www.ffm.vic.gov.au/visiting-state-forests/more-to-explore-apps-and-maps 39 https://www.victoriashighcountry.com.au/ 40 https://www.visitbright.com.au/
133 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 13. Access
134 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 14. Additional Considerations
Hob-nailed boot-prints and iron-rimmed wheelbarrow tracks in the floor of a mine tunnel, circa 1939. Upper Buckland. 14. Additional Considerations.
14.1. Community Access and Volunteer Programs There is an opportunity to explore volunteer activities as a way of promoting a more in-depth engagement of community groups, organisations and institutions. It may also assist DELWP with resourcing issues.
Activities could be varied, with a general conservation of natural and heritage values, or basic maintenance of walking and multi-use tracks and infrastructure. There also may opportunities to engage special interest groups to undertake specific tasks.
Friends Groups have successfully supported management agencies in many capacities. There may be opportunities in the future to for ‘A Friends of the Buckland Valley State Forest’, with a committee representing a range of activity groups in the region, such as; horse riding, bushwalking, hunting, four-wheel drive clubs, etc. It may also be a good opportunity for different user-groups to understand each other’s different needs.
14.2. Nomination for Historic Landscape The Buckland Valley was nominated to Heritage Victoria for inclusion as a historic landscape to the State Heritage Register in about 2005/06 by the Bright & District Historical Society. This is currently under consideration by Heritage Victoria and may offer some benefits in the longer- term consideration of interpretation and presentation of the valley.
14.3. Broader Tourism Potential Cultural Tourism is a rising marketing pillar of Tourism North East and is a rapidly growing industry. Both the Indigenous and goldfield’s heritage of the Buckland Valley have opportunities to be incorporated and promoted into broader cultural tourism strategies. 41
41 Cultural Tourism Segmentation. Quantum Research for Tourism North East, June 2018
135 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 14. Additional Considerations
136 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 15. References
Group of Fairley’s Creek miners outside an upper adit portal, c1890s. (Percy Croft collection, Rose Chandler)
15. References. The documents and references used in this document are varied. The principal references include the following:
Bannear, David. The Victorian Goldfields Project, Historic Mining Sites in the North East Region of Victoria. 1999, Department of Natural Resources & Environment. Bannear, David. Conservation Plan for Historic Mining Sites. Draft, Department of Natural Resources, 1996. Easton, John. The Happy Valley Reefs, The Buffalo Creek Auriferous Belt and The Buckland River Alluvial and Quartz Mining Area. Geological Survey of Victoria, Department of Mines, 1912 Unpublished. DEWLP. Road Management Plan, DELWP and Parks Victoria, 2019. DELWP. Naming Rules for Places in Victoria, 2016. Flett, James. The History of Gold Discovery in Victoria. Poppet Head Press, Melbourne, 1979. Kaufman, Robert. Thematic Environmental History of the Alpine Shire. LRGM Services, June 2004. ICOMOS. Burra Charter. International Council on Monuments and Sites, 2013. ICOMOS. Charter for Interpretation and Presentation of Historic Sites. International Council on Monuments and Sites, 2008. Kaufman, R. Alpine Shire Heritage Study. LRGM Services, 2004. Kaufman, R & Swift, A. Historic Mining Sites Survey of the Buckland Goldfield. A report prepared for Department of Sustainability & Environment, LRGM Services, July 2004. Lloyd, Brian. Gold in the North East. (GNE). Histec Publications, 2006. Quantum Market Research. Cultural Tourism Segmentation Report. TNE, 2018. Quantum Market Research. Walk Tourism Segmentation Report. TNE, 2018. Swift A, A Goldfields Guide to the Upper Ovens, Unpublished 2008. Talbot, D. Grave Recollections. Published by Author, 1999 Talbot D, & Swift A. The Buckland Goldfield. Published by Author Bright Vic., 2004 TLaWC, Taungurung Country Plan, 2016. TLaWC, Decision-Making Guide. 2019 TLaWC. Strategic Plan 2016 – 2020.
137 Buckland Valley State Forest – DRAFT Recreational Master Plan 15. References
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16. Map Sheets.
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