When planning on heading out and enjoying the O’Keefe Rail Trail, does this have you thinking about riding or walking the whole trail? As the trail now links Bendigo, Axedale and Heathcote for about 49kms one way, is this a recreational trail for all or only the very active?
Davina and Frank Crossman retired to Bendigo (Junortoun), and enjoy ‘escaping’ to the natural peaceful surroundings. They have found a special area on the O’Keefe Rail Trail that they regularly visit, at the trail’s Axe Creek bridge. Driving their car to Longlea Lane, they then walk a short distance along the trail. Walking past a reforested section of the trail, to encourage birds and native animals, this leads to the natural creek environment. At the trail bridge area, a glimpse of the creek’s water billabong, its rushes, and hearing the bird calls are what Davina and Frank like the most.
Frank has a plan to soon explore another part of the trail’s crossing of Lake Eppalock, just a short walk from Derrinal Station Lane and over the trail’s Mt Ida Creek bridge. This is a quiet location for taking in the views, perhaps also hoping to catch a fish while enjoying morning tea at the trail’s tables and seats on the water’s edge!
Davina and Frank chat with Friends members Mal and Lindsay. 20 Nov 2016. Photo: G.Long
At Axe Creek, the table and seats installed by members of the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail are an extra bonus for Davina and Frank, as they sit and enjoy their picnic morning tea. Scones, jam and cream anyone?
