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Bush Search and Rescue Victoria assists with Geehi search for missing bushwalker

Fourteen of our Bush Search and Rescue (BSAR Victoria) members and two Victoria Police Search and Rescue squad members joined the search for the missing bushwalker, Hadi Nazari, on Hannels Spur in New South Wales on Monday 6 January.

The search, coordinated by the NSW Police Rescue Unit, included over 300 people from specialist teams from NSW SES, the NSW Volunteer Rescue Association, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, NSW PolAir and NSW Police from far across the region.

The search base was located at the Geehi campground close to the start of Hannels Spur Track where Hadi Nazari went missing.

Hadi made contact with a group of walkers near a track close to Carruthers Saddle in Kosciuszko National Park on Wednesday 8 January. He was in good health after being lost for 13 days with only two muesli bars and walking a considerable distance through bush and alpine terrain.

There was great teamwork from all agencies involved, excellent coordination by the NSW Police Rescue Unit and much elation from everyone involved in the search when Hadi was located.

More information: Rod Costigan, BSAR Victoria Co-Convener  0417 699 847

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advice for Safe Bushwalking

Bushwalking is a rewarding and enjoyable activity when approached with proper preparation and caution. Following these tips will help ensure your safety on the trails:

Before You Go

Plan Your Trip

  • Research your route thoroughly using maps, guidebooks, and track notes.
  • Choose a route suitable for the skill level and fitness of your group.
  • Inform a trusted person of your trip details, including your planned route and expected return time.
  • Refer to the Trip Planning Guide for comprehensive advice.

Prepare Properly

  • Use appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions.
  • Pack essential equipment, including navigation tools, first aid kits, and sufficient food and water.
  • For a detailed checklist, visit Equipment and Clothing.

Communication Devices

  • Carry a reliable communication device. While mobile phones can be useful, they may not work in remote areas.
  • Consider a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or a satellite communication device for emergencies.
  • Learn more at Emergency Communications.

During the Trip

Navigate and Monitor Conditions

  • Follow your planned route and use navigation tools to stay on track.
  • Regularly assess trail conditions and adjust your pace as needed.
  • Keep the group together to avoid separations.
  • For detailed guidance, visit The Trip.

Weather Awareness

  • Observe the weather and be prepared to modify your trip if adverse conditions arise.
  • Learn more at Weather Guide.

Emergency Management

  • Be ready to handle emergencies. Familiarise yourself with first aid and survival techniques.
  • More information can be found at Managing Emergencies.

If You Get Lost

Stop and Assess

  • Pause and evaluate your surroundings.
  • Use navigation tools to determine your location and attempt to backtrack to your last known point.

Stay Put

  • If you cannot orient yourself, remain where you are to aid rescuers.
  • Call 000 and ask for Police or activate your distress signal using a PLB or satellite device.
  • Stay together if you are with a group.

Survival Tips

  • Seek shelter and stay warm.
  • Source local water if available.
  • Make your location visible with bright coloured items and use distress signals (e.g., three whistle blasts or torch flashes).

For detailed steps, see What to Do If Lost.

Final Advice

Preparation and vigilance are key to safe and enjoyable bushwalking. By planning ahead, carrying the right equipment, and staying alert, you can minimise risks and focus on the adventure. Always respect nature and prioritise safety for yourself and your group.

Bushwalking is a safe and enjoyable activity when you are well prepared. The best way to learn skills is from experienced walkers in clubs or other organised groups.  Find one to suit you in our list of  Victorian Bushwalking Clubs.

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BTAC Enhances the AAWT Walking Experience

Thirteen BTAC volunteers worked on improvements to six kilometers of the Australian Alps Walking Track where it follows the Buenba Creek near the NSW border as follow up to the work completed in March earlier this year. The whole of the 12km section of the AAWT from Johnnies Top to Buenba Road is now a much easier walk.

Volunteers, including two from Canberra started arriving on Thursday afternoon, 12 Dec, to select and set up camp. They were joined by Omeo Ranger, Jo Durrant, on Friday morning. The key task for the day was to find and flag the alignment of the track and to identify and plan the work required. A team started on clearing logs and brush cutting.  Saturday and Sunday were devoted to track improvements which included, clearing fallen trees, cutting back vegetation impinging on the track, repairs to creek crossings, placing logs in damp areas, erecting markers and generally making the track easier to walk. On Monday a team of four volunteers accompanied the ranger on a recce of the 4.5 km section of the AAWT from Macs Creek Track to Dead Horse Creek. They flagged the alignment in preparation for a BTAC activity from 28 Feb to 3 March 2025.

AAWT walkers that were met on the track were most appreciative of the work being done. 300 work hours were contributed by the volunteers and they spent some 150 hours on travel to get to and from the site.

Although the early mornings were cold, warranting beanies and jackets, the days soon warmed up and each day got a bit warmer to somewhere around 30 degrees on Monday. Early starts and early finishes allowing for cooling off in the creek before the camaraderie of shared nibbles, meal preparations and socialising.

Parks Victoria Ranger, Jo Durrant, expressed her appreciation. “A very big thanks from Parks to everyone for another fantastically huge amount of work achieved. With only one Ranger in Omeo at the moment able to do this kind of work I really can’t stress how helpful these working bees are in keeping the track in a state for walkers to enjoy. I continue to be amazed by the BTAC enthusiasm.”

Thanks to Jo for her support and thanks to the volunteers for making the effort to attend, their considerable contribution and companionship.

Joe van Beek

BTAC Activity Manager

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Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing – Project Update

On 22nd November 2024 Parks Victoria released its latest community update on the Falls to Hotham Alpine Crossing project (FHAC). The update followed the first meeting in 11 months of the FHAC Strategic Advisory Committee on 6th November 2024, on which Bushwalking Victoria has two representatives.

Financial, environmental and cultural heritage assessments have provided new information that have resulted in changes to what is being delivered. The significant changes to the project announced in the community update include:

  • The walk will now be a four day – three night experience (previous plans were for five days and four nights). Overnight campsites are proposed at Cope Hut, Westons Hut and High Knob, with Cope Hut and Westons Hut being available for emergency use only, as they are now. Environmental and heritage assessments did not support the proposed new site near Tawonga Huts.
  • Track works to improve existing trails and install boardwalk sections to protect sensitive vegetation e.g. in the vicinity of Pole 333.
  • New tent platforms and new helicopter serviceable toilets (where not currently existing) at overnight campsites.
  • At High Knob, the addition of tent platforms, an emergency shelter and helicopter serviceable toilets to be located near the existing area frequented by bushwalkers over many years. The provision of these additional services will hopefully reduce pressure on Federation Hut and surrounds which is frequently experiencing unsustainable visitor numbers, especially on long weekends.
  • Due to financial constraints, overnight accommodation huts will not be constructed at this time, but they do remain in the master plan.

PV anticipates that the project will be completed in late 2025. The timing will depend on yet to be completed environmental and cultural heritage assessments, project costings and budgetary considerations.

For further information, visit the FHAC project page on the PV website.

Chris Towers and Eileen Clark
Bushwalking Victoria Representatives
FHAC Strategic Advisory Committee
chris.towers@bushwalkingvictoria.org.au

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Celebrating the Success of Try Bushwalking Month

As we approach the end of November we mark the success of Bushwalking Victoria’s Try Bushwalking Month, which encouraged newcomers to explore the beauty of the outdoors with experienced bushwalking clubs across the state. The initiative saw incredible participation, with 32 clubs hosting 80 walks and welcoming over 200 new participants to experience the joys of bushwalking across Victoria, from Mildura to Portland, Walhalla to Ballarat, Dunkeld to the Mornington Peninsula, and so many more!

Participants highlighted several aspects they enjoyed most about the walks, with discovering new places being the standout experience. Many appreciated the social connection with other walkers, describing the groups as welcoming and friendly, while the health and wellbeing benefits of walking in nature were also highly valued. Additionally, participants enjoyed learning from experienced walkers, gaining practical tips and insights, and felt reassured by the safety and support of the group. The affordability and low-cost membership further added to the appeal, making the walks accessible and encouraging ongoing involvement.

Participants praised the initiative for its organisation, accessibility, and welcoming atmosphere:

  • “A brilliant walk – I am now going to join the club.”
  • “Lovely, friendly club members made me feel very welcome.”
  • “Great information session with practical tips and examples of equipment.”
  • “Organisation was excellent, and camaraderie among members made the day enjoyable.”

Many enjoyed the variety of walks, the opportunity to connect with like-minded people, and the friendly support provided by experienced club members.

The event provided an inspiring introduction to bushwalking, with many participants expressing interest in joining their local clubs and continuing their bushwalking journey.

It also helped spread the word about the benefits of walking with a group, and brought bushwalking to new audiences, via articles in local papers, and even a full 1 hour bushwalking-themed Conversation Hour on ABC Radio Melbourne.

Bushwalking Victoria thanks all the clubs, leaders, and participants who made this month possible. Your enthusiasm and dedication have helped build a stronger, more inclusive bushwalking community.

Here’s to even greater adventures next year! You can get in touch with any of the Bushwalking Clubs at any time to try one of their walks.  Find a Club using our interactive map.

 

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Improving your Navigation Skills using Orienteering and Rogaining

Looking to improve your map reading and navigation skills?  Maybe you want to bring a greater challenge to your hiking?

Orienteering and rogaining are excellent for improving navigation skills, as they combine map reading, compass use, and terrain interpretation. Orienteering develops precision and quick decision-making through short, fast-paced courses, while rogaining focuses on strategic route planning and endurance over large areas. Together, they build spatial awareness, problem-solving, and confidence, essential for outdoor adventures like bushwalking.

Orienteering and Rogaining – what’s the difference?

Both are navigation sports that involve using a map and compass to navigate through terrain, but they differ significantly in terms of structure, scale, and objectives. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

1. Duration

  • Orienteering:
    Orienteering events are typically shorter, ranging from 15 minutes to a few hours. Courses are designed to be completed relatively quickly, with participants navigating between a set number of control points as fast as possible.
  • Rogaining:
    Rogaining is a longer endurance activity, often lasting 6, 12, or 24 hours. Some events are shorter (3–6 hours), but the defining feature is its emphasis on extended navigation and strategy over large areas.

2. Scale of the Map and Terrain

  • Orienteering:
    Orienteering maps are usually very detailed and cover smaller areas, such as parks, forests, or designated orienteering courses. These maps include fine features like vegetation types, small trails, and elevation contours to aid precise navigation.  In fact there are many local “Street Orienteering” events, often on weeknights, making them easily accessible in metro areas.
  • Rogaining:
    Rogaining maps cover much larger areas, often spanning tens of kilometers. The maps are less detailed, focusing on broader topographical features like hills, rivers, and roads. This is necessary for the vast scale of rogaining courses.

3. Goal and Scoring

  • Orienteering:
    The goal in orienteering is to find all the control points usually in a specified order (called a linear course) as quickly as possible. Time is the primary factor, with penalties for missing controls or visiting them in the wrong sequence.
  • Rogaining:
    In rogaining, participants aim to collect as many points as possible by visiting control points within a set time limit. Control points are assigned varying point values based on difficulty or distance. The route is flexible (score-based), allowing participants to choose their path strategically.

4. Team vs. Individual Participation

  • Orienteering:
    Orienteering is often an individual sport, although team or relay formats exist. Competitors are usually timed and ranked individually.
  • Rogaining:
    Rogaining is typically a team sport, with teams of 2–5 people working together to navigate and strategise. Teams must stay within a designated distance of each other (usually 20–100 meters) for safety.

5. Strategy and Physical Demand

  • Orienteering:
    Orienteering emphasizes speed and precise navigation. Participants often run or move quickly through the course, balancing physical and mental agility.
  • Rogaining:
    Rogaining places greater emphasis on endurance, route planning, and time management. Teams must strategically decide which controls to target and how to balance distance with achievable points, factoring in fatigue and food or water breaks.

Summary Table:

Feature Orienteering Rogaining
Duration 15 minutes to a few hours 6–24 hours (endurance-based)
Map Detail Very detailed, small areas Broader maps, large areas
Goal Find controls in sequence, fastest time Collect maximum points within time limit
Participation Often individual Usually team-based
Physical Demand Speed-focused Endurance-focused
Strategy Minimal route planning Significant route planning

Which Should You Choose?

  • If you enjoy fast-paced, precision-oriented challenges, orienteering might be your sport.
  • If you prefer teamwork, strategic planning, and endurance over long distances, rogaining offers a rewarding adventure.

Both sports provide excellent opportunities to explore the outdoors and develop navigation skills, making them complementary activities for anyone interested in bushwalking or wilderness exploration.

More information:

Orienteering Victoria: https://www.vicorienteering.asn.au/

Rogaining Victoria: https://rogainevic.org.au/

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BTAC supports Ben Cruachan Walking Club with clearing the Mitchell River Walking Track

The Ben Cruachan Walking Club sought support from BTAC to help clear one of their favourite walking tracks. The Mitchell River Walking Track follows the Mitchell River for some 20km from Angusvale to Den of Nargun in the Mitchell River National Park, a park jointly managed by Parks Victoria and the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation (GLaWAC). 

BCWC made arrangements for BCWC and BTAC to volunteer to the park management to clear the section of the track from Billy Goat Bend towards the Den of Nargun. Some of the volunteers arrived on Thursday afternoon, 5 September, to set up camp at the delightful picnic and camping area at Billy Goat Bend with a magnificent view over the Mitchell River from the Amphitheatre lookout platform. A large tree fall on the approach road had to be cleared to reach the camp site. Two Park Rangers and a further volunteer arrived early Friday morning to get the clearing work started.

Friday was warm and windy. Rain overnight cooled the air and drenched Bob’s swag. A possum helped itself to Joe’s preprepared breakfast. Saturday was cool making for pleasant working conditions. Seven volunteers including three from BCWC cleared logs from 8kms and brush cut 4kms over two days, contributing over 100 manhours of labour and 40 hours of travel. Apart from volunteer labour, BTAC provided the tools and PPE while Parks Victoria provided fuel and transport.

Volunteers take a break on the Mitchell River Walking Track

 

The section of track does need further work. There are three kilometres still to be cleared to get to Woolshed Creek. In places the track needs to be reinstated onto its original alignment to stop it moving further and further downhill.

Thanks for the support from Parks Victoria and GLaWAC and thank you to the volunteers for giving of their time, the work put in and their companionship.

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Fedwalks 2025 Announced

We are very excited to announce that FedWalks 2025 will be held at Halls Gap, Grampians (Gariwerd) on 11th & 12th October. It will be jointly hosted by Grampians Bushwalking Club and Boroondara Bushwalkers, with support from Warrnambool, Camperdown, Wimmera, and Ballarat clubs.

Walks will be designed to explore the natural beauty of the Grampians from its world-famous hiking tracks, majestic waterfalls, dazzling spring wildflower displays and awe-inspiring mountain panoramas,  crossing paths with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and native birds. Heritage-listed for its Aboriginal heritage, animal and plant life, and stunning natural beauty, the Grampians National Park is one of Australia’s most recognisable places. 

Participants can choose their own accommodation from the extensive range available in Halls Gap and surrounds. Contact https://www.visitgrampians.com.au for more information. 

Dates for launch of the event website, walks program and registration to follow in early 2025.

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Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail Update – October 2024

The trail traverses Gadubanud Country along the Otway coast and will boast breathtaking views from suspension bridges and lookouts, as well as a proposed new hiker camp site, boardwalks, and river crossings.  Work is continuing to bring this new trail to life – here are share some of the recent updates designed to enhance both safety and enjoyment for all trail users.

Ocean View Trail
Upgrades have been completed along 2.7 kilometres of the Ocean View Trail, from Moggs Creek Picnic Ground to Ocean View Lookout. Key improvements to look out for include better water drainage, reducing the spread of Phytophthora (cinnamon fungus) and widened sections of the trail. 

Sheoak Falls Trail

Over 3.1 kilometres of the Sheoak Falls Trail, between Sheoak Picnic Ground and Swallow Caves, have also seen major enhancements. The trail surface has been stabilised and reshaped for better drainage, and upgrades have been made to the stairs and the bridge leading to Swallow Caves.

These upgrades not only improve the experience for trail users but also strengthen connections along the broader Great Ocean Road Coastal Trail. You are encouraged to explore these upgraded trails and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings they offer.

Follow the progress by subscribing on the project website.

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That’s a Wrap – Fedwalks Wilsons Promontory 2024

Three hundred and thirty happy walkers returning on Sunday afternoon after 40 walks, all incident free is one measure for the success for the Fed Walks weekend in October.

The walks program went like clockwork with logistics, excellent briefing of leaders, preparation for boat, shuttlebus and carpooling arrangements. Participants were happy with their accommodation arrangements too, and many made new bushwalking friends from other clubs.

A Reminder of the Importance of National Parks

Professor David Lindenmayer, our Saturday night headline speaker encouraged an enthusiastic crowd to push for more national parks and resources to support national parks. “If people can write to the Minister and Premier that would be wonderful – they WILL respond positively if they get letters from people.”

The Parks Victoria eastern regional director Kerri Villiers was pleased to be there with her son. "It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time in such a spectacular location and to connect with lots of people in a relaxed and casual environment.” She said “This weekend is a great reminder that Parks Victoria and Victoria’s bushwalking community share very similar values around connecting people with our natural areas and protecting these special places. Your advocacy for what we do is greatly appreciated.”

Also, positive response from the Parks Victoria team at Tidal River. “Thanks Lyn it was a pleasure working with you and your team. I hope we can work together again on any future events you may plan at Wilsons prom.”

The sponsors for the weekend spoke highly of the event too and are likely to support future Fed Walks. Tim Wood from Paddy Pallin a major sponsor said “It was great to come down and support the event and chat with so many passionate bushwalkers and adventurers. It was a fantastic weekend and very well organised.

Additionally, there were many happy customers for the Simply Spanish paella, salads and Portuguese Tarts on Saturday evening and the amazing Celtic band ‘Saiorse’ who entertained the weary and enticed the energetic on to the dance floor.

Thank you to the organising committee and everyone who supported the event.

Lyn Curtis

BBC President and Leader of the Federation Walks Organising Committee

A selection of notes from participants:

"I’m sending you my thanks and congratulations on a very successful Fedwalks weekend. Very well planned and it unfolded seamlessly despite last minute hiccups like the bridge being closed! Please convey to Lyn, your president, and all those on the planning committee, my thanks for their hard work in making it happen: beautifully scenic walks, a terrific booklet to keep, tasty afternoon teas (including a fabulous selection of GF goodies), relaxing yoga, great raffle prizes 😊, catering that was highly praised and great music and guest speakers to enjoy. And most importantly, a welcoming, friendly atmosphere to encourage interclub interactions." Jan (Melb. Bushies)

"There is also credit due to you (Jane) and your team.  A very well organised event.  Great communication prior and during the event which makes adapting the plan easier. It was good to be a part of the event, all the participants we very friendly and thankful getting on and off the bus." Rob Cooling (Operations Manager) Warragul Bus Lines

The organising committee did a fabulous job for the Fed Walks! You all worked so hard which was reflected in how smoothly the whole weekend flowed. You’d thought of everything, including the weather! Congratulations! Next year’s organising committee will have a hard act to follow!! Julia  (BBC)

Please thank everybody for their efforts at pulling off this event in our beloved Wilsons Prom. I had a wonderful time catching up with old friends and spotting orchids! I attach a photo of the wonderful Salmon Sun orchid (Thelymitra rubra) that was first spotted by the walkers who climbed Vereker Lookout on Sunday! John (Essendon Bushwalking Club)

Just wanted to say thank you for a well organised weekend. So much fun and exercise.  Ann and Charlie

Congratulations on a fantastic Federation weekend. You were superstars in organizing such a well-run event. Please accept my appreciation and thanks. Leanne (Essendon Bushwalking Club)

 

Three hundred and thirty happy walkers returning on Sunday afternoon after 40 walks, all incident free is one measure for the success for the Fed Walks weekend in October.

The walks program went like clockwork with logistics, excellent briefing of leaders, preparation for boat, shuttlebus and carpooling arrangements. Participants were happy with their accommodation arrangements too, and many made new bushwalking friends from other clubs.

A Reminder of the Importance of National Parks

Professor David Lindenmayer, our Saturday night headline speaker encouraged an enthusiastic crowd to push for more national parks and resources to support national parks. “If people can write to the Minister and Premier that would be wonderful – they WILL respond positively if they get letters from people.”

The Parks Victoria eastern regional director Kerri Villiers was pleased to be there with her son. "It was a wonderful opportunity to spend time in such a spectacular location and to connect with lots of people in a relaxed and casual environment.” She said “This weekend is a great reminder that Parks Victoria and Victoria’s bushwalking community share very similar values around connecting people with our natural areas and protecting these special places. Your advocacy for what we do is greatly appreciated.”

Also, positive response from the Parks Victoria team at Tidal River. “Thanks Lyn it was a pleasure working with you and your team. I hope we can work together again on any future events you may plan at Wilsons prom.”

The sponsors for the weekend spoke highly of the event too and are likely to support future Fed Walks. Tim Wood from Paddy Pallin a major sponsor said “It was great to come down and support the event and chat with so many passionate bushwalkers and adventurers. It was a fantastic weekend and very well organised.

Additionally, there were many happy customers for the Simply Spanish paella, salads and Portuguese Tarts on Saturday evening and the amazing Celtic band ‘Saiorse’ who entertained the weary and enticed the energetic on to the dance floor.

Thank you to the organising committee and everyone who supported the event.

Lyn Curtis

BBC President and Leader of the Federation Walks Organising Committee

A selection of notes from participants:

"I’m sending you my thanks and congratulations on a very successful Fedwalks weekend. Very well planned and it unfolded seamlessly despite last minute hiccups like the bridge being closed! Please convey to Lyn, your president, and all those on the planning committee, my thanks for their hard work in making it happen: beautifully scenic walks, a terrific booklet to keep, tasty afternoon teas (including a fabulous selection of GF goodies), relaxing yoga, great raffle prizes 😊, catering that was highly praised and great music and guest speakers to enjoy. And most importantly, a welcoming, friendly atmosphere to encourage interclub interactions." Jan (Melb. Bushies)

"There is also credit due to you (Jane) and your team.  A very well organised event.  Great communication prior and during the event which makes adapting the plan easier. It was good to be a part of the event, all the participants we very friendly and thankful getting on and off the bus." Rob Cooling (Operations Manager) Warragul Bus Lines

The organising committee did a fabulous job for the Fed Walks! You all worked so hard which was reflected in how smoothly the whole weekend flowed. You’d thought of everything, including the weather! Congratulations! Next year’s organising committee will have a hard act to follow!! Julia  (BBC)

Please thank everybody for their efforts at pulling off this event in our beloved Wilsons Prom. I had a wonderful time catching up with old friends and spotting orchids! I attach a photo of the wonderful Salmon Sun orchid (Thelymitra rubra) that was first spotted by the walkers who climbed Vereker Lookout on Sunday! John (Essendon Bushwalking Club)

Just wanted to say thank you for a well organised weekend. So much fun and exercise.  Ann and Charlie

Congratulations on a fantastic Federation weekend. You were superstars in organizing such a well-run event. Please accept my appreciation and thanks. Leanne (Essendon Bushwalking Club)

 

Federation Walks 2024 - Wilsons Promontory
Federation Walks 2024 - Wilsons Promontory
20241012_074646
Walk 19 Saturday
Federation Walks 2024 - Wilsons Promontory
Lilly Pilly Gully Circuit
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A Voice for Australia’s Forests: Insights from David Lindenmayer

A Voice for Australia’s Forests: Insights from David Lindenmayer

At our recent Fed Walks event, we were thrilled to host Professor David Lindenmayer, one of Australia’s leading experts in forest ecology and conservation. Known for his decades of research on biodiversity, landscape ecology, and sustainable forest management, David shared his perspective on the urgent challenges facing Australia’s forests—and the role we can all play in protecting these vital ecosystems.

The Value of Old Growth Forests

David began by discussing the irreplaceable value of old-growth forests, highlighting how these complex ecosystems support a rich variety of species and play a critical role in carbon storage. “Old-growth forests are not just trees,” he reminded us, “they’re complex communities with biodiversity that can’t simply be replanted or replaced.” David emphasised that older trees, with their extensive root systems and biomass, store far more carbon than young plantations, making them essential allies in the fight against climate change.

The Threat of Logging and Habitat Loss

One of the core messages of David’s talk was the threat posed by ongoing logging practices. He noted that unsustainable logging leads to a decline in biodiversity, impacting species that rely on forest habitats for survival. With the pressures of urban expansion and agriculture, remaining forests are increasingly vulnerable, and too often, logging practices don’t account for the broader ecosystem impacts. As David explained, the ripple effects of removing large trees and disturbing habitats can result in the disappearance of species at alarming rates.

A Call for Policy Reform

David underscored the need for strong, science-based policies to protect Australia’s forests. Current protections fall short of preserving these critical ecosystems. He advocates for an approach that prioritises the preservation of mature forests, strengthens habitat corridors, and integrates Indigenous land management practices. In his view, policy reform is the only sustainable path forward if we’re to prevent further damage.

The Role of Community Advocacy

David stressed that community involvement is critical to driving change. “Governments often listen when they hear directly from their constituents,” he pointed out, urging attendees to engage with local representatives and support initiatives that prioritise sustainable forest management. From joining environmental organisations to participating in conservation projects, he encourages everyone to find ways to make their voices heard.

Why This Matters to Bushwalking Victoria Members

For those of us who cherish time in nature, David’s message resonates on a personal level. Our forests are the very backdrop of our adventures, providing clean air, vibrant wildlife, and tranquillity that’s hard to find elsewhere. Protecting these areas isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s about preserving the experiences we treasure. As bushwalkers, we have a unique opportunity to be advocates for the landscapes we love.

Looking Ahead

David’s talk was an inspiring reminder that while the challenges facing Australia’s forests are significant, there’s much we can do to protect them. As we continue to explore and appreciate these landscapes, let’s also commit to being active stewards of the natural world.

David Lindenmayer’s insights left us with much to consider, and we look forward to applying these lessons in our conservation efforts. Together, let’s work towards a future where Australia’s forests can thrive.

Links:

The Forest Wars by Professor David Lindenmayer

Australian National University - Professor David Lindenmayer

An Aussie green bond that could fund a new national park while generating returns

Sydney Morning Herald - The Scientist who took on the Logging Industry