19 February 2015

Jawbone Reserve walk - Williamstown



It was about a month ago now that we thought we would check out the Jawbone Reserve Walking Trail. We started the day taking a train from Ringwood Station to Williamstown Beach Station and from there, walked a mere 10 minutes until we arrived at the start of the trail. The first couple of kilometres of walking  were rather pleasant and quiet, except for the restless bike riders racing past us of whom we had to be forever mindful. As we casually and quietly walked along, we discovered a quiet walking trail away from the bustle and had a chance to take in the scenery and enjoy the slow pace; finally arriving at this secluded spot at the 'jawbone'. That is, the land is shaped as such, as it juts out into the bay. My daughter took the trail to the lookout, where marshlands and interesting sights could be observed. Meanwhile, we sat and nibbled on the edible flesh of native noon flowers which are sweetly delicious. Absolute bliss - I could have sat here for some time with a sketch book and water colours.



 An information board given the tick of approval by the locals.

A little further on, and to our delight we arrived at a lagoon where a number of species of water birds were to be seen. Most prominently , the Black Swan, which approached us without too much hesitation, obviously quite accustomed to visitors and the possibility of titbits. (of which we definitely don't condone) rather a beautiful sanctuary for these creatures and yet on the horizon ugly forefronts of homes encroaching the reserve with their dominating presence and therefore spoiling the view. One is forever reminded that monetary gain wins the day.






Australian Black Swan



Various water birds enjoying the warmth of the sun. Among them, Whiskered Terns and Black Winged Stilts.



 View through the bird hide. Not sure how functional this was due to the positioning. Made a nice shot though.


More walking, and we came across a long stretch of boathouses, some of which looked as though they hadn't been tended to for some time!   



All rather interesting, as we made our way to the dilapidated  jetties, an enticing view confronted us of Altona Park shoreline on the other side, which  made me want to jump in and swim to the sandy beach yonder. ....and I'm sorry to say, this is when the camera battery closed down.  I'm afraid the following photos were taken with an  ipod which had to suffice.




 Some 4 hours later we arrived at Doggy Beach Altona. A beach named for the fact that dogs are allowed to run back and forth off-leash along this beach with their proud owners. Meanwhile, back at Jawbone Reserve , some 5 kms away, flora and fauna is passionately being monitored and protected by environmental groups and generous volunteers. Aghast.


 We finally arrived at our destination, Altona Beach,  some four hours later after an 8+ km walk. Pretty tired by now but pleasantly satisfied after our day out.  We treated ourselves to icecream and a stroke of luck - rather superior hot chips before heading back home by train from Altona Station.