General News
23 October, 2025
A climb for a cause
THE Mortlake Lions drew visitors from far and wide who were eager to make the trek to the top of the iconic Mount Shadwell over the weekend.
The Lions opened the trail on Sunday as part of the ‘Walk Up Mount Shadwell’ event, encouraging the wider community to take the challenge of climbing to the peak.
All funds raised from the event help the Mortlake Lions Club host events which benefit the wider community, such as the Mortlake Christmas Carols.
Mortlake Lions Club president Heather Rowe said she was pleased to see so many once again taking part.
“There was more than 70 people who took off walking up the mount,” she said.
“That’s a great result.
“They even came from walking groups in Ballarat, Camperdown and Warrnambool.
“We also had people from Bacchus Marsh, and someone had stopped on their way through who was travelling from Germany.”
Mrs Rowe said Mortlake Lions Club members were on hand to fire up the barbecue and serve a sausage sizzle.
“It is really good to meet people on the day,” she said.
“Everyone appreciates being able to get a sausage when they finish and stand around having a chat.
“It was also good to see mothers and fathers, kids and grandparents.
“There weren’t just individuals there were a few family groups which was lovely to see.”
Mrs Rowe said the cost is kept to a minimum to ensure everyone has a chance to hike up the trail which is usually closed to the public.
“It isn’t a big fundraiser because it is only $5 to climb the mountain – we aren’t out there to make lots of money from it,” she said.
“What it does provide is an opportunity for people to walk up the mountain and see the scenery.
“They just love what they see when they get up there.
“We do it for the community to see what is up there.”
Mrs Rowe said walks up the mount would resume again next year due to the continued support for the event.
“We did it before COVID-19 arrived and have done it a few times since,” she said.
“It has always been popular so we will look to bring it back around this time next year.
“People have said they loved it so much they will be back next time so, while we don’t want to overdo it, it’s great to see people still enjoy it.”
Read More: Mortlake