Wednesday 2 January 2019. During our New Year’s break in Ararat, we drove to the Piccaninny, a peak in the southern Grampians, via the southern Grampians gateway town of Dunkeld, stopping to admire some emus en route. Then we walked up the Piccaninny, the undemanding walk taking an hour or so return. Magnificent views are the reward for one’s labours. The bush is attractive too, full of grass trees. We drove on to Hamilton for a picnic lunch in the splendid botanic gardens and returned to Ararat for a swim. A wonderful day.