BGT11: Head of the Lake (Ballarat GeoTour) Traditional Cache

Location:

In 1851 when Ballarat was first surveyed, the swamp was recorded as Wendouree. In 1864 a rowing course was first cut through the reedy swamp and the first steamboats arrived. A severe drought in 1869 caused the lake to dry up completely but the following year water and boats returned. Within a decade it became the recreational focus of Ballarat and by the 1880’s paddle steamers, ferries, yachts and rowers were using the lake. Boat sheds and Victorian era gardens were established around its banks. Lake Wendouree hosted the rowing and canoeing for the 1956 Summer Olympics. The starting area can be seen below and an Olympic monument marks the end of the 2000m rowing course. The Steve Moneghetti 6km track around the lake provides an interesting challenge for running, cycling and walking. Lake Wendouree is a popular attraction for sailing, boating, fishing and birdwatching. The many playgrounds, historic tram, cafes certainly encourage visitors and locals to enjoy all that is on offer. 

Ballarat GeoTour:

This cache is placed as part of the Ballarat GeoTour. This GeoTour was made possible after receiving a grant from VicHealth as part of their Reimagining Health grants in 2020. To discover more caches in the Ballarat GeoTour please visit: https://geocachingvictoria.com.au/ballarat-geotour