A reasonable level of fitness is essential. This would be the level attained by a moderately active person. If you walk regularly and can walk 3-5km at a steady pace without a break then you are probably fit enough to go bushwalking. If you know that you are very unfit it is important that you work on your fitness level before commencing bushwalking.

 

Equipment

A day walker needs:

  1.  Good hiking boots or shoes (broken in) and proper socks.
  2.  A backpack (day pack) of about 25-35 litres.
  3. A supply of drinking water 1-1.5 litres (more in warmer weather).
  4. Raincoat or rainjacket and pants.
  5. A sun hat.
  6. Clothing to cover all possible weather.
  7. Food and tea or coffee as required (lunch is eaten in the bush).
  8. A basic first aid kit,  plasters and antiseptic cream.

You must endeavour to be be self sufficient.

 

Your first walk

Joining your first walk is easy. Pick a suitable walk from the events calendar and telephone the walk leader whose number appears under Contact information.  This is a requirement for all visitors and should be done some days before the walk. The walks are graded for difficulty (easy, medium and demanding) and a visitor can use this as a guide.  It is unlikely that a walk leader would allow a new walker on a demanding walk unless they were experienced in bushwalking. The leader needs to know you are coming and will also ask you some questions about your experience and equipment. The time and meeting place are given on the events calendar. We depart the meeting place at the time shown on the calendar so advise you to be there at least 15 minutes earlier for the sign on and briefing.

Although we are a relaxed and informal group there are a few points to remember:

  • All visitors must phone the walk leader at least 3 days before the walk.
  • Walks leave promptly at the stated time. Aim to be at the meeting place 15 minutes earlier.
  • To get from the meeting place to the walk start point the club usually pools cars. This minimizes our impact on the environment.  We have a policy of reimbursement for petrol so please offer the driver 10c per km per person. 
  • Do not walk in front of the leader.
  • No smoking on club activities.
  • Dogs are not permitted on club walks.

 

How walks are graded

EASY

Up to 15 km walking along  tracks or paths. Mostly flat and hills if present of modest grades. Minimum of 2 litres of water.

MEDIUM

Up to 17 km on paths or tracks, possibly some cross country navigation. Modest hills expected and some scrub possible. Minimum of 2 litres of water.

DEMANDING

Over 17 km  walking on tracks and through bush/scrub. Hilly terrain may be expected.  Participants should have experienced medium grade walks. Minimum of 2 litres of water but more if warmer weather.

THIS IS A GUIDE ONLY Walkers are responsible for their own ability to complete a walk. A good fitness level is required. If the intended walker is unsure of their fitness level, start at the easiest walk.