Paint Walk Explore - Plenty Gorge
The Plenty Gorge trails are calling you
We've developed a guide to help budding artists discover amazing locations at Plenty Gorge.
You'll be able to paint watercolour or oil paintings that depict the abundant natural beauty.
If taking a walk or exploring your local area is more suited to your interests, this guide will lead you to peaceful and picturesque walking trails.
Download the guide
Paint and explore Plenty Gorge guide(PDF, 6MB)
If you need this guide in another format, please email info@whittlesea.vic.gov.au or call 03 9217 2170.
Let the adventures begin
What to expect at Plenty Gorge
The diverse ecosystems of the flora and fauna in the Plenty Gorge Park offer millions of things to see, hear and explore. From the sounds of native wildlife, the blossoms of spring and the colour of the water in the lake, there is always something to see.
Plenty Gorge is home to many species of birds which share the environment. Here you might see birds of prey like grey goshawks and wedge-tailed eagles, flocks of galahs, long-billed corellas, spotted pardalotes, Australian kestrels, rose robins, gang gang cockatoos, rainbow lorikeets, crescent honeyeaters, eastern yellowrobins, eastern spinebills and sulphur-crested cockatoos.
Take your time to paint, explore and walk the Plenty Gorge.
Learn more
Safety at Plenty Gorge
There are many benefits for your body and creative mind by getting outdoors to paint, explore, and experience Plenty Gorge.
For a safe, enjoyable outing, ensure you visit the Parks Victoria website before you go. Check for any changed conditions, closures information and other things to be aware of.
Visit Parks Victoria website
The Plenty Gorge trails are a wonderful place to explore however they may present various hazards. Please exercise caution and use your own judgement when exploring the trails.
The terrain can be uneven, slippery, or subject to weather changes and wildlife encounters are possible. We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, injuries or loss of personal property that may occur when exploring, painting or walking the trails in this brochure. By entering these trails, you acknowledge and accept these risks and agree to use the trails at your own discretion.
Find more local walking trails
Janefield wetlands
Janefield Wetlands is just a 5 minute walk from University Hill DFO.
It is easy access down Janefield Drive to the western edge of the lake.
Walk around for many viewing and painting spots.
View map
For more information, including safety tips and maps, download the full guide.
Paint and explore Plenty Gorge guide(PDF, 6MB)
Art by Russell Danby: muralmaker01@gmail.com
Tanunda wetlands
To access Tanunda Wetlands:
- walk down to the end of Janefield Drive and you will find a gateway and a bitumen road up the hill
- walk 2 minutes to the top and veer right down a bluestone road towards the valley
- follow the road to the dam wall right down a bluestone road towards the valley
- to the left you will see the edge of Tanunda Wetlands
- enjoy the wonderful views.
View map
For more information, including safety tips and maps, download the full guide.
Paint and explore Plenty Gorge guide(PDF, 6MB)
Art by Russell Danby: muralmaker01@gmail.com
Wilton Vale area
The gorgeous Winton Vale views are worth the trip.
- Drive up Plenty Road to Hawkstone Railway Station.
- A short way to the end of Winton Vale road, park in the carpark and walk across into the Parklands.
- Mowed pathways will lead you to the wetlands, with a walking path right around.
View map
For more information, including safety tips and maps, download the full guide.
Paint and explore Plenty Gorge guide(PDF, 6MB)
Art by Russell Danby: muralmaker01@gmail.com
Middle Gorge
To get to Middle Gorge drive along Gorge Road, South Morang where you will find a gravel car park to the right, above Middle Gorge.
There is a beautiful view from here. You can also walk along the crest grasslands until you find bush tracks leading to more views of the Gorge.
View map
For more information, including safety tips and maps, download the full guide.
Paint and explore Plenty Gorge guide(PDF, 6MB)
Art by Russell Danby: muralmaker01@gmail.com
Featured artist
About Russell Danby
Russell Danby has been a practicing artist since the late 1970s.
He studied Fine Art – Painting at Caulfield Institute (Monash) and went on to have many exhibitions in the inner city of Melbourne in the 1970s and 80s. In 1986 he lived in London, UK and exhibited in an Islington Gallery. In 1988, Russell lived in Penang, Malaysia and exhibited at the Dewan Sri (Town Hall) in Georgetown.
On return to Australia, Russell worked for 10 years in Community Services at Vision Australia. During leave, he established his own artistic business painting murals. This venture demonstrated Russell’s skill in painting large community and private murals. He worked solo in this area for the next 10 years.
More recently, Russell has travelled to numerous countries, taking his sketch pad and recording everyday life. He now paints watercolours of the scenery he observes. The art on this page reflects the scenery and locations that have been near to him over the past three years.
You can contact Russell by emailing muralmaker01@gmail.com.