Thomson River Road

The road

The Thomson River Road is a 42-kilometre unsealed track that follows the Thomson River through West Gippsland bush country between Noojee and Tanjil Bren. It is one of the more accessible 4WD tracks in Victoria without being boring about it. The track crosses the river several times - the crossings are shallow and well-defined in normal conditions but can become dangerous after heavy rain. The surrounding bush is mixed mountain ash and stringybark with a dense understorey, and the track keeps close to the river for most of its length. There are several clearing spots suitable for a stop and the forest closes in enough to feel genuinely away from things. A standard 4WD with 200mm of ground clearance handles this track comfortably in dry conditions. Modified vehicles find it too easy. The track is mostly used by locals who know it and the occasional overnight camper heading to one of the riverside clearings. Very few day-trippers end up here, which is part of its appeal.

The region

Noojee is a small settlement at the edge of the Baw Baw plateau, 90 kilometres east of Melbourne. It has a pub, a general store and a trestle bridge that was part of the Noojee railway line, closed in the 1950s. Tanjil Bren at the far end of the track is a cluster of houses with a recreation reserve and not much else. The Thomson catchment around both towns is part of Melbourne's water supply buffer and access to some areas is restricted. The West Gippsland bush here was heavily logged in the early 20th century and the regrowth forest is now mature enough to be genuinely impressive.

Before you go

Fuel at Noojee or Moe. The track is impassable after significant rain - the Thomson River crossings rise quickly and there is no safe alternative route out. Check river levels before going in winter or spring. No phone coverage along most of the track. Carry a recovery kit and let someone know your route. Basic mechanical preparation is worthwhile as you are 30-plus kilometres from sealed road at the midpoint.

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