Oriental Claims Walks
10 minute read
discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more discover more
Oriental Claims Walks
Oriental Claims Walks
Begin your Oriental Claims bushwalks at the well-equipped picnic area in the Oriental Claims Reserve, located at 308 Great Alpine Road on the western edge of Omeo in East Gippsland. These scenic bushwalking tracks invite you to explore historic goldfields, dramatic clay cliffs, and tranquil countryside, all just a short walk or drive from Omeo’s town centre—offering an immersive experience steeped in natural beauty and fascinating heritage.
Oriental Claims Historic Area
The Oriental Claims Historic Area was named for the company that worked the site for gold from 1876 to 1904. It was the highest alluvial goldfield in Australia.
The exposed clay cliffs towering over the area were created by high pressure hydraulic ‘sluicing’ operations. This method of gold extraction, which washed vast quantities of soil and gravel into sluice boxes from which the gold was extracted, was
banned in the early 20th Century due to its devastating environmental effects including reported pollution of waterways extending as far afield as the Murray River. Today, eucalyptus trees, banksias and many other native shrubs and wildflowers have returned to this once denuded place, attracting many varieties of birds and mammals.
There are two excellent walks around the Oriental Claims – Ah Fongs Loop and the Pioneer Claims Walk – which offer interesting interpretive signage, close-up views of mining operations and scenic vistas of Livingstone Creek and the countryside surrounding Omeo. The reserve is well equipped with picnic, BBQ and toilet facilities. Walk to the Oriental Claims Reserve via the Oriental Claims Walk from Livingstone Park – 1.8 km, or drive to the car park from the western end of town and start the walks from the picnic area.
Ah Fongs Loop
Grade 2. Gravel surface, some steps. 1.5km.
From the picnic area, cross the Dry Gully Bridge and follow the track to the site originally worked by the Chinese miner, Ah Fong, from 1875. Part of the walk hugs the pretty Livingstone Creek and offers lovely places to rest and picnic.
Ah Fong’s was one of several mining claims in this area. Others included the Ah Fie and Corea claims. During the life of his claim, Ah Fong’s operations yielded about 6000 ounces of gold, worth today more than $3 million. With some of the proceeds he opened a store in Omeo, eventually leaving his claim to his wife, Mary.
45 minutes return
Pioneer Claims Walk
Grade 3. Gravel surface, some steep sections, steps to lookout. 1.5km.
This fascinating walk features close-up views of the exposed cliff faces, tunnels and caves created by hydraulic sluicing operations. The track ends at the top of the hill where a lookout offers panoramic views of the cliffs and sweeping vistas of the high country plains to the north and eastern horizons beyond Omeo.
From late winter to early summer, look for the native orchids which grow prolifically in the area including Pink Fingers and Wax Lip and more common varieties of Spider, Sun and Donkey Orchids. In autumn, the flowering banksias and grevilleas attract a number of species of honeyeater and parrot. Any time of the year, Swamp Wallabies may also be seen.
45 minutes return
To make the most of your walks, be prepared!
The weather in this area can change quickly. Wear a hat and sturdy footwear, and make sure you carry water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a waterproof jacket. Be aware that venomous snakes are a natural part of the Australian environment and are active during warmer months. Never attempt to pick them up – quietly wait for them to pass.
Omeo Valley
