The Plenty Gorge trails are calling you!

A guide to discover amazing painting spots for budding artists to view and paint watercolours or oils that depict the natural beauty of the Plenty Gorge.
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.

About the Artist

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. This exhibition reflects the scenery and locations that have been near to him over the past three years.

1 - Janefield Wetlands

Just a 5 minute walk from University Hill DFO, is Janefield Wetlands. It is easy access down Janefield Drive to the western edge of the lake. Walk around for many viewing and painting spots!

2&3 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.
To the left you will see the edge of Tanunda Wetlands. 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. Here you will see some wonderful views.

5 - Winton Vale Area

The gorgeous Winton Vale views is 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.

6 - 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.

For more information, including safety tips and maps, download the brochure.

Paint Out Day

Russel is offering an opportunity to paint the gorge together.
Bring your painting equipment and a folding stool.
Russel will take you out to the gorge for a 2 hour paint at the wetlands.
Then meet back at the Centre for a cuppa and a biscuit, share your artwork and ideas for further Paint Outs.

Date: Saturday 23rd September
Meet: Janefield  Community Centre, 2 Manchester Cres, Bundoora 
Time: 10am - 1 pm 
Email Russel to register and for more information at muralmaker01@gmail.com