Warrnambool 4WD Club

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW
Friday 24 July
We packed up camp at Long Point Campground and began the journey home, leaving the peaceful banks of the Snowy River behind. The drive took us back through Melbourne, with a couple of stops along the way to stretch the legs and reflect on the incredible adventure we had just experienced.
As evening approached, we stopped in Waurn Ponds for dinner before settling in for the final leg of the long drive home. After days of exploring rugged tracks, towering forests, alpine peaks, historic huts, waterfalls, and remote campsites, it was hard to believe the trip had come to an end.

Thursday 23 July
The day began with a visit to the historic Jungle King Mine, an old quartz mine dating back to 1889, offering another fascinating glimpse into the rich mining history of the High Country.
From there, we tackled Coonrick Rocks Track, climbing higher into the mountains until light snow began to fall at around 1,038 metres. The scenery was nothing short of magical, and to top it off, we were lucky enough to spot several lyrebirds darting across the track, disappearing into the bush almost as quickly as they appeared.
Travelling along the newly graded Yalmy Road brought an unexpected challenges with a short section of slippery surfaces from freshly graded roads.
After reaching Orbost, we stopped to admire the impressive Great Snowy Rail Bridge. Stretching 770 metres across the Snowy River floodplain, the bridge carried trains between Orbost and Bairnsdale from 1916 until the line closed in 1987. Standing beneath the massive timber structure was a reminder of the remarkable engineering achievements of its time.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Long Point Campground, just 30 minutes from Orbost. Camped right on the banks of the Snowy River, it was the perfect place to relax, listen to the flowing water, and reflect on another memorable day of history, wildlife, alpine weather, and a few unexpected adventures. Long Point was another absolutely amazing campground with its own beach access to the river. It’s a wonderful place to spend a summers day fishing and swimming.

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TRIP

Wednesday 22 July
After leaving some supplies at the hut, we continued East and the day was packed with more spectacular scenery and a touch of High Country history. We started with the magical Little River Falls, where crystal-clear water cascaded over the rocks, creating a peaceful oasis tucked away in the bush.
Next, we made our way to Little River Gorge Lookout, taking in the breathtaking views across Victoria's largest gorge. Standing on the edge and looking out over the rugged landscape was a reminder of just how vast and wild this part of the High Country really is.
Lunch was enjoyed beside the historic McKillops Bridge, a landmark with an incredible story. The original bridge was washed away in the devastating January 1931 floods, just 11 days before its official opening. The replacement bridge was built with concrete piers five metres taller than the original to better withstand future floods. It was completed and opened in December 1932, with a construction budget of just £12,500—an impressive engineering achievement for such a remote location.
The adventure continued with a crossing of the Ambyne Suspension Bridge. Every step brought a gentle sway beneath our feet, adding just enough excitement to remind us to tread carefully while taking in the views of the river below. Definitely not suitable for driving over anymore!
As the afternoon faded, we made our way to Wilsons Hut, where we set up camp surrounded by the peace and beauty of the High Country. Wilsons Hut is a two room hut that was very welcoming. Another day of unforgettable landscapes, fascinating history, and rewarding tracks came to a perfect close.

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TRIP

Tuesday 21 July
We woke to another stunning High Country morning, greeted by crystal-clear skies and a crisp -2°C. With the frost sparkling in the early sun, we hit the road and made our way along Nunniong Road, stopping at the historic Washington Winch, also known as the Washington Iron Works Skidder, is a rare steam-powered logging winch located near Swifts Creek, close to Bentley Plain and Moscow Villa Hut. Imported from the United States in 1925, it was first used in Western Australia before being transferred to Victoria after the 1939 Black Friday bushfires to salvage timber. In 1959 it was relocated to its current site, operating until 1961. Now the only intact steam-powered logging winch of its kind in Australia, it is heritage listed and preserved with its engine, cables and reconstructed spars, showcasing Victoria’s rich logging history.
The drive was spectacular, winding through towering mountain ash forests and lush fern gullies, with every turn revealing another incredible view across the valleys below.
After a morning of exploring, we rolled into Omeo for lunch, treating ourselves to some well-earned delights from one of the local bakeries before continuing the journey. Crossing the iconic Mitta Mitta Bridge, we headed deeper into the bush in search of our campsite.
The final challenge of the day came with the track into Rogers Hut. It was just technical enough to keep things interesting, with the 4WD earning its stripes and the camper trailer getting a proper workout over the rough and boggy terrain. By the time we reached the hut, the effort was well worth it. Nestled among the trees in the quiet bushland, Rogers Hut was the perfect place to settle in and reflect on another unforgettable day of High Country adventure.

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TRIP

Monday 20 July
We woke to a surprisingly balmy 8°C, a change from the frosty starts of previous mornings, no snow that night. After packing up camp, we made our way through Horseyard Flat Hut, dropped off some more supplies, before stopping at the burnt out but recently opened Pinnacles Lookout. Here we experienced some breathtaking views that stretched across the High Country.
From there, we tackled Castle Hill Track, winding through magnificent bushland where we were lucky enough to spot a shy lyrebird disappearing into the undergrowth. Along the way, towering gums stood out against the landscape, their smooth trunks draped with freshly shed bark.
The adventure continued along McDonald Gap Track, with its steep, climbs putting both vehicle and driver to the test. It was a rewarding drive, with spectacular views around every corner.
After refuelling in Bairnsdale, we headed back into the bush, driving through open paddocks dotted with curious grazing cattle before reaching our destination for the night. We set up camp at Moscow Villa Hut. What a stunning place, with a whole separate camping area with shelters and another section with horse yards, surrounded by the peace and beauty of the High Country, ready for whatever tomorrow's adventure would bring.

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TRIP
Sunday 19 July
After saying goodbye to those who were heading home, those that were continuing with the adventure left Licola on another stunning winter morning, with the temperature sitting at a crisp 2.2°C. The day began by heading onto B1 Track, where we hit the first patches of snow at 1,132 metres. It was a beautiful drive, winding through towering straight-trunked forests and lush green fern gullies that seemed to go on forever.
We stopped for lunch at the peaceful Lost Plains before continuing on to McFarlane Saddle where we dropped the camper trailer. Then continued to Moroka Hut, dropping off some supplies on behalf of the Victorian High Country Huts Association and soaking up the rich history and spectacular alpine surroundings. As the afternoon drew on, we made our way back to McFarlane Saddle, where we set up camp for the night. At 1,500m we were hopeful of overnight snow. Surrounded by the quiet of the High Country and beneath a sky full of stars, it was the perfect place to end another unforgettable day of exploring. In the early evening, a convoy of 4WDers called into McFarlane Saddle to air up their tyres. Having a quick chat to them they let us know that one of their group attempted a river crossing that was a little to high and one of their vehicles didn’t have a snorkel! That vehicle was now experiencing engine troubles but they were going to give it their best to get back to Melbourne that night!

HIGH COUNTRY SNOW TRIP
Friday 17 July
Everyone gradually made their way to Licola, arriving throughout the afternoon and setting up camp in anticipation of the adventure ahead. Once the tents and campers were sorted, it was time to unwind with a few well-earned refreshments around a roaring campfire.
As the flames crackled into the evening, stories were shared, plenty of laughs were had, and everyone enjoyed catching up. With great company, a warm fire, and the excitement of the days ahead, it was the perfect way to kick off another unforgettable High Country adventure.

Saturday 18 July
We woke up to a crisp, clear morning with the temperature sitting at a chilly 0.5°C. We drove up Licola–Jamieson Road under beautiful blue skies and were greeted by calm conditions with no breeze at the top of snowy Mt Skene.
The kids, big and small, had a great time tobogganing and enjoying plenty of snowball fights. We stopped for lunch at the lookout on the Jamieson side of Mt Skene, taking in the stunning winter views.
On the way home, we spent some time clearing tracks before tackling the challenge of the day—burning all the wood that was collected during the day. We gave it our best shot but didn't quite manage to get through it all.