The Otways
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Dead tree stumps stand vigil in the water of Lake Elizabeth in the Otway Forest. This valley was logged then damned some 50 years ago to create a beautiful lake which is known for being a perfect habitat for Australian wildlife including Duck Billed Platypus. We never spotted any of the latter, but apparently one needs to visit this site in the early morning or late afternoon for any chance to spot these elusive aquatic creatures.
St James Anglican Church was originally situated in the settlement of Yaugher, a couple of kilometres down the road. It was dedicated in 1889 but was destroyed by bushfire in 1906. By then the Yaugher settlement had moved to its present location at Forrest. The present church was built in 1907
This is a rare view from directly above the tree-fern taken from the elevated Otway Fly. This photo shows how completely these plants shade the bush floor below.
This delightful stream runs next to the California Redwood trees not far from Beech Forest, Victoria.
Lake Elizabeth in the Otway Ranges
Here my friend, Charles, is contemplating launching out for an adventure.
Located in the lush Great Otway National Park, encompassing forests on the slopes and in the foothills of the Otway Ranges to the north of the mountains’ spine. Hidden within this densely wooded landscape, which is home to owls, eagles and bats, is Stevenson Falls and uncrowded bushwalking tracks. Photo by: dpb photos (www.dpb-photos.com)
One of the marvels of the bush is that new life grows from old. This tree stump is covered in moss and hosting a fungus which draws its nutrients from this otherwise dead tree. Foresters call these "nursery trees", due to the fact that they provide nourishment for new growth.
Located along the Aire Valley Road this is a delightful place to stop and enjoy a picnic or just a short stroll into the forest. The Californian Redwood forest (Sequoia trees), were planted alongside the river in 1939.
This canoe looks very inviting for exploring this large lake which disappears to the left around a bend. Ony one problem - no paddles.
The falls were not flowing to their full extent due to no rain for the previous month. However, I was delighted with their beauty and the lush surrounds. Photo by: dpb photos (www.dpb-photos.com)
It is difficult to convey the majesty of these trees. This shot looks straight up the trunk of the Redwood where it rises from the forest floor. The Californian Redwoods in the Otway Ranges remain one of Victoria's best kept secrets. Because, it's one of the only places you can see Sequoia sempervirens in Australia. Hidden off an old logging road somewhere between Apollo Bay and Beech Forest, the plantation is nothing short of breathtaking when you step into it for the first time. It's its own ecosystem: quieter, colder, darker and bigger than the outside world. The canopy is so thick nothing grows on the forest floor.
Just the perfect conditions for sea fog. The cool air off Bass Strait meets the warm moist air flowing from the coastal valleys. This fog was continuously changing as the warm air caused it to evaporate as it rolled over the ridge.
Anywhere else in the world this would be called a creek. But due to low annual rainfalls, few waterways exceed the size of the one pictured here. This 'creek' runs through the Otway forest; this spot is next to a stand of tall California Redwoods.
Stringy Bark Gums are prolific in the Otway Ranges. These trees are likely second generation growth after this area was logged some 75 years ago. Occasionally, one comes across the first growth gums that are so enormous they defy belief.
Palm Ferns are prolific in the Australian bush along the east coast and stretching west along the south Victoria coastal rain forest. They grow in the damp shady forest floors providing a green filter for plants and animals beneath.
