Areas of Heathcote-Graytown National Park are infected with the soil borne disease know as Cinnamon Fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomic). To prevent the spread of this disease visitors are requested to stay on formed tracks and take note of signs that restrict public access. Damage from 4WD and motorbikes is significant on the walking tracks of Mt Black. March flies can be a problem in Autumn.
Melville's Lookout is named after Captain (Francis) Melville, who was a notorious goldrush era bushranger. Mt Black Quarry can be viewed from the Lookout Track. Granite blocks were mined here to use in the construction of the Goulburn Weir wall in the 1890s.
The main part of the track comprises Mt Black Quarry Rd. This is a dirt vehicle track with very little traffic. Take care, loose stones can make the track slippery. The track rises gently for 3.6km, where it arrives at the base of a steep, rough foot trail that ascends directly to the Lookout (at 4.2km). This foot trail then joins the dirt vehicle track on the opposite side of the summit. This dirt vehicle track loops back to the base of the hill. If the initial steep foot trail ascent looks too daunting, keep walking along the road approximately 100 metres until you get to the Melville's Lookout 2km directional sign pointing left. Follow this track up and back down for a less demanding walk.
Mt Black Quarry - To the right of the Melville's Lookout sign you will see remains of the old Goulburn Weir quarry site. This area invites exploring. Kids will love it for all the climbing and hiding places. It makes for excellent mountain biking as well.
Melville's Lookout is named after Captain (Francis) Melville, who was a notorious goldrush era bushranger. After being transported to Australia at age 15 for housebreaking, he escaped Port Arthur to live with local aborigines for a year. He came to Victoria in 1851. Within a short time he had formed the Mt Macedon Gang that robbed travellers heading to and from the goldfields.
Melville's Lookout €“ Stay for a while and enjoy the view, there are picnic tables and fire places available, so make yourself comfortable and spend some time.
Note: Loose stones make the track slippery; part of the track is steep and rough at the base of the Lookout. If this foot trail looks too daunting, keep walking along the road for 100m until you get to the Melville's Lookout 2km sign pointing left, which is a less demanding walk.
Mt Black Quarry can be viewed from the Lookout track. Granite blocks were mined here to use in the construction of the Goulburn Weir wall in the 1890's.
Information courtesy of Shrathbogie Shire
Photo by Matt Sullivan
- For a shorter walk, you can comfortably 2WD drive in on Mt Black Quarry Rd to the base of the Melville's Lookout.
- A 4WD can take you all the way to the Lookout on the summit vehicle track, 2km from the Melville's Lookout directional sign.
- Walking 800 metres further along Mt Black Quarry Rd brings you to a walking track on the right going up to the Mt Black summit.
- The nearest camping is permitted at Spring Creek or Dargile Camping and Picnic Grounds or the Whroo free camping area.
- This is a good location for multi recreational use: bushwalking, mountain bikes, orienteering, regaining. Horse riding, motor bikes and 4WDs are only permitted on formed roads.
- March flies can be a problem in Autumn.
- Mobile phone coverage may be inconsistent.
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Total distance: 10133 m
Max elevation: 308 m
Min elevation: 176 m
Total climbing: 211 m
Total descent: -212 m
Getting to the trailhead: Heathcote-Graytown National Park.
Melville’s Lookout Track commences at the carpark (of sorts) on the corner of Mt Black Quarry Rd and Heathcote – Nagambie Rd, Wirrate, 20km west of Nagambie.
Closest towns to this walk: Axedale, Costerfield, Graytown, Heathcote, Kyneton, Lancefield, Seymour, Tooborac
The Heathcote-Graytown National Park comprises Victoria's largest remaining box €“ ironbark forest, consisting of open woodland including ironbark, grey and yellow box and stringy bark. The understory features blackwood, gold dust wattle, silver wattle and drooping cassinia. Grass trees are numerous. Green rock fern is a common ground plant in milder months.
Wildflowers include grassland wood sorrel, shiny everlastings, tall bluebells and Nodding Greenhood orchids, with many more according to the season. Rare spider orchids may be also found.
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Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the
AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.
Plan ahead and hike safely! Carry enough water, pack layers for changing conditions, and bring safety gear like a torch, PLB, and reliable communication device. Check official sources for trail updates, closures, and access requirements, and review local weather and bushfire advice. Most importantly, share your plans with someone before you go. Being prepared makes for a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe.
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, and your adventure type. Not sure what to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists are a great starting point, covering day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them to customise your kit and always prioritise safety.
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