Merino is set resting in the gentle rolling hills along the main Old Bullock Track north from Portland. From Heywood, turning off to Casterton at Drumborg was the main old bullock track. This was the only way to access the fertile grazing lands where ‘Merino Downs’, the first station was established in 1837 by Francis Henty.

The Drover’s Nightmare sculpture is located at the starting point for the The Merino Old Stock Route Walking Trail, which follows the designated old stock route, one of Victoria’s oldest and still in use.

The walking trail starts at the edge of Palmers Creek. in Merino. Seating is along the trail, and so are photos from the past to highlight significant sites, and emphasis areas of interest to both locals and visitors alike.