To the Damp Edge of Gippsland: Bruthen to Hollands Landing

September 30, 2012

Day 9
Bruthen to Hollands Landing (via Bairnsdale)
Sunday 30 September 2012

The first 30 km of the day were on the East Gippsland Rail Trail. Very pleasant riding from Bruthen through to the sizeable town of Bairnsdale.

The trail passes through a mix of quiet rural and bushland areas. The surface was much better than the previous day.

We stocked up in Bairnsdale with maps, information and early lunch at the bakery. Realising it would be too far to the next town (Sale) in a strong headwind, we diverted to the tiny, stark coastal settlement of Hollands Landing and set up our tents in the near empty caravan park adjacent to the coastal lake and lagoons.
Although it was a 10 km side-track, it was a better option than pushing into a strengthening wind.
The Hollands Landing campground was very rundown and basic but the owner was welcoming and helpful. Other than a boat ramp and navigation light, there is not much at Hollands Landing other than tea-tree wetlands.

There was protection from the wind. A campground kitchen was good to prepare meals in.

Distance 80 km
Average 14.1 km/ hr
Maximum 41.3 km/ hr
5 hrs 42 mins riding

(photos to be added later)

Farmhouse near the rail trail not far from Bruthen

Typical of the trail today from Bruthen to Bairnsdale. Much better than the storm damaged section from Orbost to Bruthen yesterday.

Scene from the rail trail between Bruthen and Bairnsdale

Canola and wheat crops in early spring. Near Bairnsdale.

Hollands Landing sunset over the extensive wetlands and coastal lakes

Today's ride: 80 km (50 miles)
Total: 641 km (398 miles)

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