Deadman's Loop Track - 4.7km return, moderate
Starting at the Courthouse, this walk follows Sutherlands Creek through small valleys with Grass trees and several changes in vegetation, and finishes at Meredith-Steiglitz Road. See historic remnants including a large historic pine tree, a round, stone-lined well and some scattered bricks indicating a house site. Within the creek bank area, you will see the entrance to the historic Morning Star mine.
Beard's Gully Walk - 6km to Sailors Track, difficult
Starting at the top of Sailors Track, South Steiglitz Road, head downhill to Sutherlands Creek. The walk follows the creek bed so be prepared for a few hours of rock hopping. A car shuttle is recommended (leave car at Sailors Track). A circuit is possible returning via South Steiglitz Road.
CAMPING
There are two designated camping grounds in the park - siz sites at Boar Gully Camp Ground northern end of park and eight sites at Fridays Camping and Picnic Area near Steiglitz. Both have pit toilets and tank water, plus one designated camp trailer or caravan site at each camp ground.
Bookings are essential and fees apply for all campsites including the Bushwalkers Only sites along the Burchell Trail. Book online at www.parks.vic.gov.au or call 13 1963.
Phytophthora cinnamomi
Phytophthora cinnamomi (PC) is an introduced plant killing water mould that lives in wet soil and attacks and destroys plant root systems causing plants to die through lack of water and nutrients. Patches of dead or dying vegetation can indicate the presence of this silent killer.
The disease is spread through infected plants and the movement of contaminated soil and gravel. There is no known practical cure for the disease, but its spread can be limited by preventing the movement of infected soil. All management tracks have been closed to vehicle, bicycle and horse access to prevent the spread of this serious threat. Several tracks have been quarantined to restrict all access.
Please use boot cleaning stations strategically placed along walking tracks within the park.
Prior to entering and leaving the park, use a sturdy brush to remove all soil from footwear and camping gear, then spray with a 70% methylated spirits/water solution or with bleach.
BE FIRE READY AND STAY SAFE
On days of forecast Code Red Fire Danger this park will be closed for public safety.
If you are already in the park you should leave the night before or early in the morning for your own safety.
Closure signs will be erected and rangers will patrol where possible, however you may not receive a personal warning that the park is closed so check by calling 13 1963 or visit www.parks.vic.gov.au
For up to date information on fires in Victoria or general fire safety advice call the Victorian Bushfire Information Line on 1800 240 667.
LOOKING AFTER THE PARK
- All plants, animals, archaeological sites and geological features are protected.
- Please take all rubbish with you for recycling and disposal.
- Cats and firearms are not permitted in the park.
- Dogs are permitted within the park, but must be kept on a lead at all times.
- All plants and animals are protected.
- Light fires only in fireplaces provided. No fires are permitted on a day of Total Fire Ban. Built in and portable gas or electric barbecues may be used provided: a 3 metre area is cleared of anything flammable. At least 10 litres of water is available for immediate use. An adult is in attendance at all times. Fires must be completely extinguished before leaving.
- Bicycles are only permitted on the main access road.
HISTORIC BUILDINGS AND SITES
Steiglitz Courthouse
The first courthouse, a rickety timber building, was constructed at the rear of the present courthouse in 1858. The present building opened in June 1875.
By the time the new courthouse opened, the town's fortunes had waned and courthouse sittings were discontinued by January 1879. It re opened between 1895 and 1899 when Steiglitz enjoyed a revival of mining and business fortunes.
From the courthouse veranda, you can look across the vacant lots and Sutherlands Creek to Gibraltar mine.
St Paul's Church of England
This is a timber building located along Regent Street. Established in 1872, it was used as a church until 1962. The building deteriorated until 1988 when the external structure was restored to near-original condition. The internal structure was restored in 1994 with the help of volunteers.
The building can be hired for permitted functions such as weddings and community events. To apply for a permit, call Parks Victoria on 13 1963.
St Thomas Roman Catholic Church
This timber building, built in 1878, is located on the outskirts of the town along the Meredith road. In 1960, the building was moved to Norlane, Geelong and in 1983, relocated back to Steiglitz close to its original site. The building is now used by a local community group that collects and conserve documents, photographs, artefacts and family histories.
Sugg's Cottage
This weatherboard cottage is the only one of its kind in the area. It is a four-roomed cottage with a corrugated roof and veranda and was possibly constructed in the 1890s. It was occupied by blacksmiths, the final one being Mr Sugg in 1944. With the help of the local volunteer group, the building is currently being restored to its former appearance.
Privately owned buildings
Steiglitz
EducationalToiletsPicnic tablesBBQShadeWalking trackBirdwatchingGold historyPicnic blanket spotUndercover areaFire pit
BBQ
