The Wildflower Society WA runs guided walks through many suburban bushland reserves throughout the year. This one at Lake Gwelup in mid December didn't showcase any wildflowers but our guide, David, shared his extensive knowledge about the plants we came across and also the insect life. He could spot a bug from a mile away . I guess it helps knowing what to look for and we made some amazing discoveries along our walk. When the naturalists, including David, get excited about a find and pull out their cameras you know you are seeing something extraordinary.
A multipurpose paved 2.5km path loops around Lake Gwelup Reserve. There is plenty of parking at the Scouts Hall and adjacent public carpark off Huntriss Road. There are toilet facilities, picnic benches, drink fountains and a small playground.
Under David's guidance we walked along the grassy areas close to the water's edge alongside some beautiful paperbarks. We continued along the boardwalk to the Lake Gwelup Lookout on the southern edge of the lake. We spotted ducks, swans, grebes and cormorants. From here we did some serious bug spotting as we continued around the lake through different types of vegetation. In the Flooded Gum section we diverted from the path onto a narrow bush track which took us through some interesting landscapes including a meadow where frogs, ladybugs, dragonflies and butterflies abounded.
Whilst the walk around the reserve is pleasant it is a different experience being on the guided walk. The pace of the guided walk is governed by the interests of the participants and we took two and a half hours to get about 3/4 of the way around. At any time you are free to leave the group, as I did, and continue along the path back to the starting point.
If you enjoy looking for birds, frogs, reptiles and insects or wildflowers (in season) Lake Gwelup certainly has it's fair share! It is a lovely easy flat walk around the lake, great for scooters, bikes and prams. The viewing platform on the southern edge and wooden bridge on the northern edge add elements of interest to the walk. Dogs are permitted on leash to protect the wildlife.
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In the spirit of reconciliation Out and About- Family Nature Connection acknowledges the traditional owners of the Wadjak boodjar (Perth land) and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
As always when hiking in the bush please help to reduce the spread of Phytophthora Dieback by sticking to the tracks and paths, staying out of quarantined areas and, if possible, clean your shoes before and after hiking. A spray of 70% methylated spirit and 30% water can be effective.