We walk from Fryerstown to Vaughan Springs along the well-marked Goldfields Track after autumn rain. Rocks at Central Springs mark a circle of stones perfectly placed as a spa bath, probably a hundred years old maybe more. It seems a perfect morning tea spot but there’s nowhere dry to sit. A little upstream a pine forest welcomes us with logs laid as ideal seating. Across the creek an old orchard shows signs of wildness. We contemplate the use of the Loddon River in yesteryear.
In Vaughan Springs, we pump at a tap and taste the spring water cautiously. Believed to be a health tonic but we’re not impressed. Though to our surprise it tastes much more palatable than it did a month or two ago. Fewer minerals this time. We swallow this time and smile!