If you enjoy the great outdoors, then Bushwalking is one of the best ways to experience and appreciate what nature has to offer. Bushwalking offers numerous benefits, including physical challenges, connection with nature, skills development and the opportunity to meet new people.
We offer a full program of bushwalking activities throughout the year, ranging from our local easy short walks, to longer backpacking trips, with many options in between.
The club suits all levels of bushwalking and hiking experience. Activities are graded according to difficulty and are led by committed and experienced volunteer leaders.
GRADING STANDARDS:
https://australianhiker.com.au/advice/australian-walking-track-grading-system/
DAY WALKS
These range from short local walks to walks that involve a few hours driving into the mountains in our area. In Summer Mount buffalo, Falls Creek, Mount Hotham and Mount Bogong are some of our favourite places but we explore many other local areas.
OVERNIGHT BACKPACKING
These walks allow participants to enjoy all that a day walk offers, plus the ability to venture further and camp overnight, experiencing a night(s) in the bush. It involves carrying all your gear (tent, bedding, stoves, food and essential clothing) in a larger and heavier backpack. Many of these items are available for hire through the club. We frequently have begginers overnight walks where you can check your interest, ability and gear.
EXTENDED BACKPACKING
As for Overnighters, but these walks range from several days to weeks allowing participants to travel in to and experience remote natural environments for longer periods. Packs will be a lot heavier.
CAR CAMPING
This is an easier form of bushwalking where walkers camp near their cars and go off on day walks in the knowledge they will have all the creature comforts waiting for them on their return.
Typical outings have been to places like JB Plains near Dinner Plains, Mount Hotham and Lake Catani, Mount Buffalo
Key points to consider;
Ambulance cover
It is strongly recommended that all participants have ambulance cover for their own wellbeing.
Route Changes
Walk Leaders reserve the right to change the walk route on the day depending on prevailing conditions and altered circumstances.
Fitness
Members and visitors must check with the Leader that their fitness and experience suit the walk. A Leader can refuse permission for any person to take part in his/her activity.
Bookings
You are generally required to book in with the Leader by the Wednesday preceding the walk for day activities, and for overnight walks at least 7 days prior to the trip.
You must call the Leader in addition to indicating your wish to participate through the website, unless the Leader has advised you otherwise. This is so the Leader can get an idea of your suitability for the activity – that is, your health/fitness and that you have an appropriate level of experience for that activity. They will also be able to advise you of any key risks, or gear requirements. Our Leaders don’t want to grill you, but we need to ensure everyone is able to safely participate without putting you or others at risk.
Cancellations
Please do not book unless you are committed to a walk. Leaders to a lot of planning; providing lists, organising car-pooling etc. Of course things happen where you may need to cancel. It is important to advise the leader of your need to cancel as early as possible to assist with their planning.
