Central Gippsland

The one-hour Fosters Gully walk access via Jumbuk Road is dominated by mature manna gums and scrubby rainforest. It is a loop track which returns via a dry ridge of stringy bark trees. Expect to see koalas, wallabies and possibly lyrebirds. Wombats may make an appearance at dusk. Free electric barbecue facilities are available.

Unnaturally warm artificial lake which remains at a minimum of 22 degrees at all times. On cold winter mornings there is an eerie mist rising from the lake. In June, Hazelwood Pondage hosts an annual sailing regatta, the Latrobe City Sauna Sail. Facilities include disabled access to sailing dinghies, BBQ’s, children’s playground, toilets, picnic area and a caravan and camping park.

Offered several weekends per year, the basic blacksmithing course is an introduction to the theory and practice of making tools, different types of steel and their heat treatment. Several projects are completed including a centre punch, cold chisel, scriber and utility knife.