A stroll through the Metcalfe NCR

Good numbers rocked up for FOBIF’s August walk through the Metalfe Nature Conservation Reserve yesterday. This small reserve features beautiful open valleys of grassy woodland, the understorey dominated by Wallaby Grass.

Part of FOBIF’s walking group in the reserve, which features quiet open grassy valleys.

The reserve, unusually for this region, carries no Stringybarks, giving it quite a distinctive appearance, especially given the large number of unusually old Long-leaf Box eucalypts. Leaders Barb Guerin and Lionel Jenkins organised a stimulating route through some idyllic valleys before ending in a stroll along the high ridge which bisects the reserve, with glimpses of fine views across to the west. They also cleverly arranged excellent walking weather, brisk with great patches of bright sunshine. There’s an abundance of Hovea in flower, and although the fungi season is ‘over’, there was enough around to keep the eyes to the ground.

Our thanks to Barb and Lionel for a great stroll through a perhaps under appreciated gem of a reserve. Next month’s walk is in the Muckleford forest. Check the program for details.