Cypher's report was terrific, shame it rained for the Falls Creek / Mt Beauty bit as its probably the best section. The section from Omeo Hwy up to Pretty Valley storage has just been resealed and the gravel should be gone pretty quickly. The disappointing thing is the rough base on which it was put, had hoped for better. For those who may be aware of the new hydro generator coming into service on the Kiewa scheme, well the rock that had to be blasted to make the tunnel for this was used to make the base for this section of road sealing. For about 100 years there has been a push to seal the Corryong Road , the Mitta mitta Road or the Falls Creek road (or preferably all) The Falls road was the one that has been done but only because of the tie in with the new tunnel and a need to do something with the rock. Why couldnt they try a little harder and make a smooth base. Poor old Golden Age, it doesnt seem to matter who has the license, it never seems to get the food right (or not for long). The Blue Duck is a great place and the camping on the river nearby is excellent but there is the Little River Inn at Ensay that has good accommodation and welcomes groups.
We went for a ride on sunday that was the Omeo- Falls Creek- Mt Beauty-Bright-Hotham -Omeo loop , its
here if anyone wants to look.
Some interesting facts: Great Alpine Road was so named as a tourist thing (totally ignoring its long history). Bairnsdale to Omeo is actually (sorry, was) part of the Omeo Hwy that continues to Mitta Mitta and beyond.
Omeo Highway was the first properly surveyed and constructed highway in Victoria.
Omeo to Bright is actually (sorry, was) the Alpine Road.
The last 10km section to Hotham was finally sealed after some 120 years in 1998 under the Kennet government but was done quickly in order to meet deadline and this section has a rough base that gives a crap ride today. Until then the traffic flow was very low. Since then traffic has increased 1000 fold (more) hence the move for Omeo to become more tourist oriented, for better or worse.
Its 100 years this year since the first car reached Omeo, see attached. Thats the then Golden Age behind the car (its burnt down a few times)
Alfred Howitt was the first to take a "four in hand" team from Omeo to Bright (and amazes everyone by doing so). He was awarded the job of Magistrate at Omeo as a reward for leading the rescue party for the "burke and Wills" expedition.
Now, you are honoured!, this has never been shown before, the licensees board from above the door at the Blue Duck when it was owned by the OConnels, now held by the family.
I'll shut up now
Cheers Graeme
Edited by graeme, 17 December 2009 - 11:41 am.