Wondrous Waterfalls - Tooronga & Ampitheatre Falls Walks

WONDROUS WATERFALLS

There’s a roar. A spectacular burble of thundering water, plunging, and meandering its way through giant boulders to the lower levels of this cool temperature rainforest. It’s truly a magnificent sound calling me in.

I’m beginning the 2.2 kilometre circuit within the Toorongo Falls Reserve, located in the Baw Baw Shire, in search of two wondrous waterfalls. Nestled amongst giant tree ferns, Mountain Grey Gum, Mountain Ash, Manna Gum and Austral Mulberry are two viewing platforms to take in the picturesque Tooronga Falls and Amphitheatre Falls.

There is something soothing about chasing waterfalls. Spending time in nature is the perfect reset for your mind. This particular track is short and relatively easy, only taking an hour for the return trip. Of course, allowing more time to fully appreciate and enjoy this natural wonder is also worthwhile.

It’s a moderate incline with sections of rock stairs to the viewing platforms. The walk is a pleasurable experience with lush vegetation all around and the river streaming gently, then more vigorously as you draw closer to the towering falls. You can feel the energy of the water.

Having crossed the bridge over Toorongo River, which is fed by the rainsoaked Great Diving Range, the stunning cascade of Toorongo Falls enters view from a distance before reaching the first platform. She’s mighty and beautiful.

Continuing up the narrow path, the calming chirps of the various species of birds are then overpowered by the dominate force of tumbling, rapid water. The platform built over the river enables perfect viewing of this dramatic, tiered waterfall. The bench here invites a comfortable pause for photos and admiration.

In awe, I watch the water somerset over the rocky cliff and flow into the valley below. The claims that waterfalls increase serotonin levels, enhancing our sense of wellbeing, certainly has merit. Witnessing this glorious fall brings a sense of satisfaction, self-reflection, and connection to nature. It’s important to activate all your senses and notice how you feel. Only then do you fully appreciate just how magnificent these nature reserves really are.

Passing engravings of love on tree trunks, couples and families enjoying the day out and even dogs wagging their tails and obediently posing for pictures for the memory file, it’s just a short 600 metres further along to the Amphitheatre Falls. Earning its name from being located in a natural amphitheatre, this fall isn’t as grand as the first being just one dramatic drop of water, however the metal observation platform jutting out above the water stream feels more daring. It’s also another impeccable snap opportunity. Watch the water race through the metal rails and hear the amplified sound in this special spot.

TOORONGO & AMPHITHEATRE FALLS WALK

WORDS AND PHOTOS BY DANIELLE RALPH

Notably, this trail, and in particular the Amphitheatre Falls section, can be extremely muddy and slippery and will be sectioned off when there is risk of landslides. Sensible walking shoes are a must. They may also need a good wash on your return!

To get to this walk, it is 6 kilometres of roughish road to reach the parking area. The nearest town centre is Noojee. The Noojee Trestle Bridge Rail Trail is another key attraction in the area, featuring an impressive 100-metre-long trestle bridge, one of the remaining historic timber bridges in Victoria. Not just a bridge, this is a brilliantly preserved icon in the emerald township.

The drive to Toorongo Falls does set the scene with lush, rolling hills in the distance. Those hills are such of charm in Gippsland. Conveniently, a toilet block is adjacent to the car park and the entrance to the walk is clearly signposted. It’s impossible to get lost on the short circuit. Some people also opt to camp at Toorongo Falls Camping Area, right at the base of the circuit walk. Riverside with scattered picnic tables, this site is a popular position being in a tranquil location. Toorongo Falls Reserve and campgrounds are managed by Department Environment Land Water and Planning (DELWP).

Respectfully, this area was the original border of two Aboriginal tribes. To the west were the Wurundjeri and the Brayakoloong in the east, who lived on the river flats of the Latrobe Valley. Today, other than for our recreational pleasure, this rainforest also provides valuable water and timber for Victorians.

Blessed are those who visit and live in this area. As I am discovering, Gippsland is a wonderland for walks. Be sure to tick this one off your list.