Brown Hill Creek

In 1915 Brownhill Creek was proclaimed a “National Pleasure Resort”, these days that would probably mean luxurious suites available in fancy hotels, classy restaurants, spas and at least one heated swimming pool. Expectations were a little different in 1915 and it’s difficult to find a trace of what was on offer apart from the creek and views. Prior to European settlement in the 1840s it was an important gathering place for Kuarna people who named the place “Wirraparinga” which means, place of scrub and creek.

You can find detailed information in the brochure available from Mitcham Council Office or online via their site.

There are carparks at several spots along Brownhill Creek Rd. The park itself is 3.5 kms long and straddles the creek.

 

Log seating at the Kuarna Meeting Tree.

Possum carving from one of the log seats.

Memorial plaque

Mitcham Council now is now responsible for the reserve.

The first Plane Tree was planted in 1907

There are two marked trails along the creek, the Wirraparinga Trail and the Yurrabilla Trail in some places you need to cross the creek walking on flat rocks and near the far end of the valley, walk on the road.

Maybe the mown path leads to the top of the hill.

Steps to somewhere.

Narrow dead end road.

Lovely old Oak Tree

Native and introduced trees line the paths.

Dogs allowed if on leads.

Flat stepping stones over the creek.

Not so subtle suggestion to follow the small arrow.

This trail is mostly on the southern side of the creek.

Some amenities have been built but there are no toilets for walkers, those in the Caravan Park are for patrons only.

Shady sites and cabins at the “Tourist Park”

High in the background is the road into Belair.

Plane Tree avenue.

Self sufficient campers have plenty of space.

“The Monarch of the Glen” sheltered Kuarna people and early settlers.

Marker for “The Monarch of the Glen” placed in 1874.

Apparently a great place to sit and read.

Big old Oak Tree provides shade at this picnic spot.

There are relics of the early days at various spots along the tracks.

Remains of the loading bay for Mundy’s rock crushing plant.

Somewhere there’s a cast iron Drinking Fountain, this is the closest we found to such a thing!

Fig Tree, relic of the Market Gardens which used to be in the area.

Wheel from an old pump.

Remains of an old shed at the end of Brownhill Creek Rd.

Lovely old farmhouse.

“The Walnuts” a variety of fruit trees are still growing around the property.

Old Manure Pits designed to stop fouling of the creek.

Remains of an old ford

Damming the creek caused controversy, swimmers v farmers.

Telephone booth – on it’s way to being a relic!

There are many weeds in the Park but some add beauty.

Sweet Peas

Willows

Olive Trees

Walnut Tree

Blackberries

Scotch Thistles

Even some “natives” are probably introduced to the area.

Straw flower

Pine fruit

Unknown

Bottlebrush

Native grass – I think

Not many birds were close to the tracks.

What’s up, Doug?