On 27 June, 1965, a group of like-minded, bushwalking, field naturalists, predominantly from Heyfield, Maffra and Sale, hiked to the summit of Ben Cruachan, an 836 metre mountain to the northwest of Maffra in Central Gippsland, Victoria. There the Ben Cruachan Walking Club was founded. Today, it has grown to a Club of around 140 members, mainly from Central and East Gippsland, ranging in ages from young to the young at heart at 80+ AND STILL WALKING!!!
The Club has had a long association with McMillans Walking Track. Through the drive and enthusiasm of John Smith, a life member, the Club was instrumental in developing McMillans Walking Track. This runs 220 kms from Omeo to Woods Point, following much of the original tracks cut by Angus McMillan who was commissioned by the Victorian Government in 1864 to link the goldfields communities in the Gippsland high country.
About 40 – 50 walks are held throughout the year, ranging from day (including mid-week) walks to weekend car camps, overnight hikes and longer distance multi-day walks. Walks are graded from easy to hard, providing a good range for experienced and inexperienced walkers. More experienced members are very willing to share their knowledge and love of the bush. Members are encouraged to develop their bush craft and lead walks, suggest walks to add to the program, or just ‘go along for the ride’ and enjoy. Non-active members and family/partners are most welcome on car camps and social events.
Ben Cruachan Walking Club Club Objectives and Organization