Racetrack is a 1.7km, grade 1 hike located in Racecourse Flora Reserve, Western Australia. The hike should take around 45 minutes to complete.
Hike overview
The Racetrack is a 1.7 kilometre loop walk on Racecourse Flora Reserve near Mullalyup. This flora reserve is a significant area of protected bushland, virtually an island in a sea of farmland. The site includes the no longer used racetrack, hence its name. This is a good circuit to walk the dog.
Racecourse Flora Reserve is situated between the towns of Mullalyup and Balingup, approximately 2.5 kilometers northwest of Balingup. In 1999 the Balingup community identified bushland considered worthy of protection in three adjoining reserves. These reserves contained abundant flora and areas of conservation value. The reserves included the site of the old racetrack and gymkhana ground. The three reserves are now amalgamated and vested with the Shire of Donnyrook-Balingup as a reserve for the purpose of conservation and recreation. The reserve (approx 108 ha) is an island of bushland surrounded by cleared land. It straddles the Mullalyup Brook/Balingup divide and is underlaid by the Kirup Conglomerate, a geological formation uncommon in the area. While some areas within the reserve are degraded from previous activities, many areas are in very good condition. The Balingup Friends of the Forest, with the help of supporters and the Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup, continue to both protect the high conservation value bush and restore degraded areas. In Spring, the reserve becomes a blaze of colour, with an amazing abundance and diversity of wildflowers. Each week of spring sees change until early December. Banksia grandis (Bull Banksia) is one of the last plants to flower, with its wonderful bright yellow candles, which then form into the well-known Banksia 'see' or 'nut'. A copy of the herbarium for the reserve is held by the Balingup Friends of the Forest. The herbarium contains photocopies of the plants identified on the reserve, along with their botanical names.
Route and GPX file
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Tips
Start Point: Racecourse reserve is on South West Highway, 2.5km north of Balingup which is 230km (2.5 hours) south of Perth
End Point: Racecourse reserve is on South West Highway, 2.5km north of Balingup which is 230km (2.5 hours) south of Perth
Region: Racecourse Flora Reserve, South West
For more information, a location map and GPS file please visit Trails WA.
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About the region
Racecourse Flora Reserve is situated between the towns of Mullalyup and Balingup, approximately 2.5 kilometers northwest of Balingup. In 1999 the Balingup community identified bushland considered worthy of protection in three adjoining reserves. These reserves contained abundant flora and areas of conservation value. The reserves included the site of the old racetrack and gymkhana ground. The three reserves are now amalgamated and vested with the Shire of Donnyrook-Balingup as a reserve for the purpose of conservation and recreation.
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Explore Safe
While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.
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Gear to consider
My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.Â
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Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.