Summary

It is fantastic that an abandoned and relatively small quarry site can be turned into such a perfect spot for kids and their families to walk and have fun.

Description

Lake Esmond is a terrific reserve tucked quietly away behind suburban houses and beyond the main roads. It has a looping track for kids and their families to walk, play along and have fun together on. The 1982 revegetation has matured well and lawns around the lake are inviting to stroll through.

Paths are compacted gravel and generally firm and wide. The reserve has two levels, a lower level with the lake and an upper level with the playground, picnic facilities and toilets. There are paths with modest slopes connecting the two.

The lake was named after the early gold discoverer and Eureka Stockade leader, James Esmond. The water is excellent for views, a swim or paddle. Fishing and mucking about in boats are popular.

There is plenty of open space and tree cover. The lakeside parkland includes a playground with a long and low flying fox, seating, a jetty, the looping walking track, BBQs, picnic tables and toilets (including an accessible toilet).

Dogs must be on a leash.

Bus No. 21 stops at the intersection of Lal Lal Street & Main Road 450 meters from the Lakeside entrance.

There is parking at the gate to the lake on Larter Street as well as next to the wide open space above in a small car park off La Lal Street.

Note: the lake is open water with access from the banks on all sides. Some areas have dense patches of reeds. Keep an eye on small children.

827 Views

Points of Interest

1. Larter Street entrance

The Larter Street entrance has roll under picnic tables available on the banks of the lake.

2. Walking options

A shorter loop walk is available if you wish to keep to the flat areas around the lake.

3. Life's a beach

It isn't a sandy beach, but there are shallow shores for small fry to splash about under close supervision.

4. Shade

There are trees for shade and a built shelter at the playground. The lake edge is exposed to the weather. There are wide lawns on the higher ground.

5. Playground and picnic area

Features of the reserve include a playground, picnic shelter, BBQ, drinking water and an accessible toilet.

6. A two level park

The lake lies below the playground, BBQ and toilets.

7. The walking paths

Paths are of compacted gravel, generally smooth and firm. There are modest slopes between the higher ground and the lake.

8. Take a seat

Seats around the reserve provide places to rest. A couple have a good view.

9. Love a duck

You are suer to meet some of the local birdlife.

10. Off street parking

A short laneway takes you to the Lal Lal Street playground car park as an alternative to the Larter Street roadside / lakeside parking. It doesn't matter where you start your walk.

Features

Playground

Picnic spot

Drinking water available

Seating available

Public toilets

Historical interest

Lake, creek, river

Park / Garden