AS darkness falls over Glencoe’s pine plantations, Australia’s largest colony of organic bioluminous fungus lights up the forest floor, bringing to life a hint of fairytale magic.
Branches split the star-filled sky as I marched deeper into Ghost Mushroom Lane last week in search of the seemingly supernatural toadstools which have captured national attention.
I had to investigate this doorstep tourist attraction for myself following several high-profile features, including the television show The Living Room and across major social media platforms.
Twigs crunched beneath my boots as I avoided rotting tree stumps and ducked underneath hanging limbs, my eyes adjusting to the pitch-black surroundings with each step I took.
I followed SA Forestry tour guide Kieran Gosden into a restricted, fenced-off area just as light rain fell and it was then out of the corner of my eye I saw a blanket of mushrooms on the forest floor.
I did not have that “wow” moment at first.
In fact, I was a little underwhelmed, but once I switched off my headlamp the fluorescent glow continued to build.
I turned from left to right and more glowing clusters appeared beneath my feet and in a moment I was surrounded.
Thriving in the chilly conditions, the 15-20cm cream-coloured Omphalotus nidiformis can last up to two weeks before the species converts from beautiful funnel-shaped bodies into a gooey shapeless mess.
Considered “prime-time” for ghost mushroom growth between late May and early June, thousands of visitors armed with torches and their warmest winter jackets are expected to flock the lane this long weekend.
Ms Gosden is gearing up for the influx, with the attraction bringing a host of interstate and overseas visitors to the region.
“People are coming to Mount Gambier to be involved in unique night-time experiences which we have not had on offer before,” she said.
“We are looking on target when comparing to last season as we are mid-way through we have had around 10,000 visitors already.
“I want to make sure every visitors gets an amazing experience, whether it is through a free roaming walking trail or a guided toured experience.”
Ms Gosden said there were a lot of interesting questions asked on tours and she was always well-prepared to answer them.
“We often hear kids say they think the mushrooms glow so the fairies can see where to go at night,” she said.
Six tours will be ran over the June long weekend which are open to the public for their own mystically adventure.
More details are available on the Forestry SA website, with details on free-roaming walking trails which change each week and tour booking instructions.
