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Take some inspiration from our aMeN caMiNo and explore our Diocese

If you're ever looking for something to do with your friends and family, why not take inspiration from our aMeN caMiNo and get outside to explore our Diocese? 

Elizabeth Symington April 23, 2024

The aMeN CaMiNo is a response to a desire to be in communion with each other and our sacred earth. It is an opportunity to pause from routine, immerse yourself in reflection and contemplation, and provide a moment to reconnect with nature and reflect on your faith.

The aMeN caMiNo pilgrims will walk an average of 20km per day through the beautiful landscape of bush, beach, and beyond which we are blessed to have in our backyard.

This year, we are running two pilgrimages, one in July and another in August. Spots are still available, if you are interested visit our website or come along to our Walk and Talk session this Saturday 27 April from 8.30am to 1.30pm at St Columba’s Parish Hall (Lockyer Street, Adamstown). After an information session, you will head off on a walk to get a taste of what the aMeN caMiNo is like.  

Below are some great spots to visit, a few of them are part of our aMeN caMiNo path too!

Glenrock State Conservation Area

The Glenrock State Conservation Area is only 5km from Newcastle and is the perfect place for mountain biking, walking, exploring beaches, and more.

www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/glenrock-state-conservation-area

Watagans National Park

Just one hour from Newcastle, the Watagans National Park offers an array of activities, including hiking, biking, lookouts, and quiet campgrounds.

www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/visit-a-park/parks/watagans-national-park

Walka Water Works

Located in Maitland, there are several walking trails around Walka Water Works. The walk around the lagoon is approximately 3km, while the loop around the lagoon and the bush trail through the reserve is approximately 4.8km.

www.maitland.nsw.gov.au/facilities/walka-water-works

Coorangbong Swing Bridge

It’s a little-known fact outside Lake Macquarie that the city is home to Australia’s original Weetbix factory. The Cooranbong site adjoining Avondale College no longer makes the venerable breakfast staple, but its grand 1930s main building beside tranquil Dora Creek remains. A barely-there public driveway at the end of Victory St in Cooranbong leads to a swaying timber footbridge over the creek. Wander onwards past the former factory’s imposing red-brick façade and explore the area.

https://lakemacfamilylife.com.au/discover-cooranbong-swing-bridge/

Newcastle Memorial Walk

The Newcastle Memorial Walk, also known as the ANZAC Walk, was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli in 1915 and the commencement of steel making in Newcastle; it acts as a magnificent memorial to the men and women of the Hunter who served their community and their country.

It links Newcastle's Strzelecki Lookout to Bar Beach and has magnificent views

https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/explore/things-to-do/walking-and-cycling/newcastle-memorial-walk

Fernleigh Track

Running from Adamstown in Newcastle to Belmont in Lake Macquarie, the Fernleigh Track is a great walking and cycling path through bushland.

https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/explore/things-to-do/walking-and-cycling/fernleigh-track

Pebbly Beach

Located near Forster, this is a popular trail for hiking, running, and walking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of the day. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

www.alltrails.com/trail/australia/new-south-wales/pebbly-beach

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