Our October walk was as much a train trip as a walk. Our larger than usual group took the train to Southern Cross Station where coffee and toilet stops took place. Someone had trouble finding the correct toilet Then, after a lot of confusion we made our way back to virtually the same platform area to board the train to Geelong. With lots of chatter, views of countryside and towns not seen before and sweet treats, thanks to Liz, we arrived at Geelong station. Walked from the station to the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre , with its interesting dome shape and made our way up to level 5, only to find the viewing balcony closed. Janette made a quick trip downstairs and returned with a staff member who thankfully opened up for us. Being a cloudy day, the views of Corio Bay and the YouYangs were not spectacular but there was still some beautiful buildings around to see. Then back at street level and across it to the heritage building known as the “upside-down building” due to its shape that resembles an upturned pyramid or State Government Offices. Here we had hoped to view its large mosaic mural in the foyer depicting an 1970s view of Australian history but unfortunately it is now days not open to the public. These days it’s probably not politically correct, but in my view history shouldn’t be changed but should be learnt from. So lunch was next in the programme at Porchetta and some rather large meals were enjoyed by some, along with the finishing touch of an after dinner mint provided by our sugar fix queen Liz. Timing was perfect as we arrived at Geelong Library to view the finalist paintings of the Archibald Prize for 2025 right on our booking time. For those like me who didn’t know why it’s called the Archibald/Archie’s it’s named after JF Archibald. A gentleman born in Geelong and cofounder of The Bulletin newspaper, who upon his death made a bequest that lead to the establishment of the prestigious art prize for portraiture. Everyone has their own ideas as to which painting should have won, personally I was not impressed by the winner but loved the packing room prize winner and lots of others that were so well done they could have been a photograph. After the viewing, some of us walked back to the railway station via Johnstone Park adjacent to the library and heritage centre with our President to board our train back to Melbourne. The rest of the group using a later train. The return train trip was a quiet affair with a few of us snoozing. Another enjoyable adventure thanks to our organisers Ken and Liz.
Wendy Crawford Walking Group Reporter 9 October 2025
