By fir0002flagstaffotos [at] gmail.comCanon 20D + Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 - Own work, GFDL 1.2, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=873832
The first weekend away this year saw 16 Members, families and friends head to Beechworth. Some people headed to Beechworth early which was good as with the extra time, were able to explore areas and towns in close vicinity, including Chiltern. The weather was very good in comparison to last time the Club headed to Beechworth when they had nothing but rain. The weekend kicked off with a sunset on Friday night at Lake Sambell which was a little disappointing. Even though there was an itinerary some Members ventured off to some different locations, sharing their photos and stories when meeting up either at another location or dinner. After dinner on Saturday night, some Members headed out to try some astrophotography but the moon was quite bright so we weren't very successful but it was fun trying - with some laughter. Some other Members headed out after midnight which was when the moon was setting. A great time was had by all and I look forward to seeing everyone's images in the gallery.
BEECHWORTH ITINERARY (subject to change).
24-26 APRIL, 2026
Friday 24 April
Sunset: 17.34.
Moonrise: 13.45 Moonset:23.55
Possible sunset overlooking Lake Sambell – McConville Avenue looking towards the caravan park.
Dinner: Your choice of venues – no group booking will be made.
Saturday 25 April
Sunrise: 6.46
Mt. Pilot lookout 14min drive from Beechworth on the Beechworth-Chiltern Road. Short walk from the car park.
Back to Beechworth for breakfast.
10.00 Beechworth Asylum Albert Road. Very interesting old buildings and tours are available if you would like. There are even Asylum Ghost Tours for those who are game – obviously at night. Good shots along the road leading to the asylum.
12.30-2.00 Lunch back in Beechworth.
2.00 This might be an opportunity to wander along the street/old buildings in Beechworth, the old Hospital Facade, Church Street or the Beechworth Railway Station Harper Avenue.
The Beechworth Cemetery – Chinese section with the Chinese burning towers. Possible location for an astro shoot after dinner.
4.00 Woolshed Falls 7 minute drive from Beechworth on the Beechworth-Chiltern Road then turn left into McFeeters Road. There is a viewing platform. Also you can go rock hopping so make sure you wear sturdy shoes. Hopefully with the rain we have been getting here, they are been getting and the waterfall doesn’t disappoint. Toilets are also available.
Sunset: 17.36
Murmungee Lookout – 11 mins from Beechworth along Lady Newton Drive (unsealed road).
Dinner: 6.30.
Booking at Hibernian Hotel (once I know the numers)
Possible Astro shoot – location to be advised.
Sunday 26 April
Sunrise: 6.47.
Suggest walking down the main street. Lots of granite for texture, old streetlamps and buildings, including the Historic Court House.
After breakfast have a walk through Beechworth Historic Park where there is a historic convict bridge.
A 10-minute drive from Beechworth is the lovely town of Stanley. There should be lots of colour as we are visiting the area in autumn.
PLEASE NOTE: This itinerary is subject to change.
Eateries: Beechworth Bakery
Tiny of Beechworth
Moments & Memories Tea Room
Chiltern is worth a visit. Only 25km from Beechworth. The old Dow’s Pharmacy 42 Conness Street, is well worth a visit. Only open Friday and Saturday 10-2. Looks like they just left everything and walked out back in 1969. You can book tickets at explorechiltern.com.au.
Plan your visit