We all have different reasons to hook up the caravan and hit the road. Some of us visit family, or some may be working around the country, whilst others may just be looking for that much needed rest and relaxation or escape from our fast paced world. Exploring our wonderful country and learning facts about different regions is something that is a useful and valuable education, that we can then share with our fellow touring public.
Jamieson is a little Victorian town that we had never visited. But now I am pleased to say that we finally made time to hitch up the van and head that direction. And it did not disappoint. It is nestled between mountains and adjacent to rivers, so outdoor activities are endless.The drive through from Mansfield was quite picturesque with green paddocks and healthy livestock grazing on lush feed. The road is not overly wide and there were some hills where there was limited passing room.
On arriving in Jamieson we were greeted by the pink foliage of the Crepe Myrtles which line the streets. It was easy to find the Jamieson Caravan Park which is situated on the banks of the Jamieson River. The caravan park is very pretty with large shade trees scattered throughout, and on arrival we were pleased to discover that our site was large enough to accommodate two caravans, as this time we were travelling a friend. During the night there is the possibility of the occasional acorn dropping on your roof so don't be alarmed with the noise. Fire pits were available for use with wood able to be purchased at the office if needed. We found the amenities clean and tidy and the grounds well maintained.
It is a nice stroll into town for a coffee or feed at the local pub, activities that we definitely did partake of. And a big thumbs up for nice coffee at the General Store and very generous sized meals at the Court House hotel. The General Store does have a supply of essential food stuffs, but if a big shop is required then a trip back to Mansfield may be a necessity.
A wander around town will educate you into the history of some of the old buildings that remain, or during the weekend a visit to the museum may give you an insight into the difficulties and lifestyle the locals endured. A walk downstream along the Jamieson river will take you to the junction of the Jamieson and Goulburn rivers.
The junction of the Goulburn and Jamieson rivers
Jamieson is a short drive from the Howqua side of Lake Eildon so it is a useful base if you enjoy fishing. Also a point of interest is the lookout which overlooks Lake Eildon and we were lucky to have a clear day, although the trees do block out some of the view of the lake below.
Jamieson is a town which is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Australian bush, so to stand and marvel at the majestic trees is awesome. A 4WD is nearly a necessity if you wish to head off the bitumen and we discovered that there are many dirt roads. The road to Woods Point is fairly well maintained and a mixture of bitumen and dirt with some tight corners and narrow sections, and you often have glimpses of the Goulburn River. There were historical places of interest and remnants of gold mining days scattered along the way. Also some very picturesque free camps dotted along the edge of the Goulburn. It is quite surprising watching the width of the Goulburn River reduce in size, as at Woods Point you can step over it. When you arrive in Woods Point, make sure you take some time and wander down along the river. There are cute stone stacks dotted along the rivers edge and if you have a competitive streak, there is a mini golf course.
We also found time to visit Mt Buller which was a hive of activity with tradies endeavoring to get jobs completed before the cold weather returned. Views from the mountains are breathtaking and the colours in the distance are constantly changing. Rather than head directly down the mountain after our wander around, our friend decided that we would head to Craigs Hut. Now this was definitely a 4WD only track. The road was very narrow and I was extremely glad that we were on the inside as we did meet a ute towing a off road camper coming the other way. Our vehicle was wedged against the side of the mountain with wheels in the gutter whilst the other vehicle had to manoeuvre past on the very edge of the road. So glad that we were on the inside! We didn't see any native animals but birds were abundant. The bush was covered with tall tree ferns with their long bright green fronds reaching to the ground.Now and then water could be heard trickling way below us. Howqua Gap was a quiet and peaceful place to stop for a cuppa. It was nice to take time out to just ponder the beauty of the mountains.
On arriving near Craigs Hut the decision was made to take the 4WD track up to the top, and it is most definitely only suitable for 4WD's. When we reached the carpark at the top, the view was rewarding. Just what can I say. This was truly a bucket list moment. But it was busy. There were horses and riders, hikers and many 4WD's. So many people were just sitting and taking in the view. We were blessed to have such a clear day.
So in my opinion, Jamieson is a great little town to visit. It is close to nature, if these are things that you enjoy. The scenery is like a picture post card. And the people are friendly.
So if you are struggling to decide where to head to next, give this little town some consideration. But lets keep it between you and me!
The view from Mt Buller.
