Category: Information

Posted on by

Parks Victoria Visitor Guides

If you are anything like us, we have been missing the wealth of information that Parks Victoria used to provide in the Park Notes for each of their parks.  These guides included excellent information on visitor facilities, walks and a good sketch map of the park.

Thanks to Andrew Robinson from Bush Navigation and Maps, who has let us know that the complete catalogue of Park Notes (over 200 of them) is now available at the Parks Victoria Visitor Guides Resource Library. They can easily be printed on a home printer. Many of the maps are also available in a georeferenced form through the Avenza app map shop for free.

Posted on by

Finding Maps for Bushwalking in Victoria

Where to start looking for maps?

Bushwalkers need accurate, up-to-date maps. Whether planning or leading a club walk, or walking with a few friends in the bush, good maps enable walkers to safely navigate their intended route. They also open new possibilities during planning and when out on the track. So, where are these good maps found?

Paper or digital?

Using both is best. The paper map provides the 'big picture', can be annotated during planning and is 'weather proof'. A mapping GPS or Smartphone will, at the very least, provide an accurate position. Put both together and you have a well-equipped walker who is unlikely to be mislaid. Both paper and digital maps are discussed below.

A word about scales

Large scale maps are a must: a good scale is 1:25,000, i.e. 4cm on the map = 1km on the ground. 1:50,000 (2cm = 1km) is borderline, sometimes lacking sufficient detail for walkers, while 1:100,000 (1cm = 1km) is really only a detailed road map.

Some Smartphone apps

There are a large number of mapping apps, many linked to websites. For bushwalking, maps should be saved offline into the Smartphone itself, rather than continually accessing the internet via a mobile signal. Here are just a few free apps.

Avenza maps is linked to a map store containing over a million maps worldwide. It can also display custom maps from other sources and is used by many mapping organisations. You can use your phone's built-in GPS to track your location on any map, plot tracks, add photos and much more.

Organic Maps is your worldwide street directory with lots of additional information. It is similar to the popular Maps.Me app, but is completely free and the app maker does not track your location.

Terra Map is a good, easy app for plotting your track on a walk. It can also quickly plot photos as you walk.

Many navigation apps allow a free trial period before requiring a paid subscription to open up many features that are useful to bushwalkers. These include the ability to download maps for offline use, the ability to print maps and access to a library of maps and air photos.

Map sources

Vicmap

Vicmap is the Victorian Government mapping agency. It is part of Land Use Victoria in the Department of Transport and Planning. It produces over 10,000 separate map sheets, using 3 scales, covering the entire state. These are:

Vicmap Topographic 1:25,000, A0 sheet

Vicmap Topographic 1:30,000, A4 sheet

Vicmap Topographic 1:30,000, A3 sheet
(1:30,000 maps contain the same detail as 1:25,000, but are designed for easy printing on A4 or A3)

Vicmap Topographic 1:50,000, A0 sheet

Vicmap Topographic 1:100,000, A0 sheet

These maps are updated every 18 months to two years.

The maps are available either online or via the Vicmap Viewer Smartphone app. This app allows you to purchase, download, store and copy Vicmaps to the Avenza map app. As only 3 custom maps (including Vicmaps) can be loaded into the Avenza free version at any time, the Vicmap Viewer app is handy storage for the maps. As all the map files are PDF’s, you can print any map you want; the 1:30,000 maps are especially handy here.

Vicmap prints only the 1:50,000 maps and 1:25,000 Specials. These paper maps are available through map resellers and outdoors shops.

If a large number of Vicmaps are required, they can be purchased through a value-added reseller. Memory-map is one such reseller that stocks all Vicmaps. There are limitations: you must use memory-map software for viewing and printing the maps, but the cost savings can be considerable. Memory-map works on both your desktop and through a Smartphone app. Maps are downloaded as you need them or can be fully downloaded from the memory-map digital map store. Vicmaps are also available in some paid apps e.g. Gaia GPS Premium. Maps and air photos from an extensive library can be downloaded into the Gaia GPS app; printing is available through the Gaia desktop web page.

Third-party maps which utilize Vicmap data

Vicmap spatial data is freely available to map producers to make their own maps. nswtopo and Getlost Maps make 1:25,000 maps covering Victoria which are published in the Avenza app Map Store. nswtopo maps use similar symbology to Vicmap and make a small charge. Getlost maps use a slightly different symbology, are free, and contain additional data from other sources, e.g. OpenStreetMap. These maps can also be downloaded from the Getlost Maps website in a printable form if a paper copy is desired.

Spatial Vision

A number of areas of interest to walkers are covered by Spatial Vision’s Outdoor recreation guides. Most of these maps are at a scale of 1:50,000 and are packed with detail. Wilsons Promontory, The Grampians and Bogong Alpine area are a few examples. The maps can be purchased as paper, and are also available in a georeferenced form through the Avenza app map shop. Spatial Vision no longer prints or directly sells its maps. The remaining stocks of paper maps are available through map resellers, who may be able to provide copies of out-of-print maps for you.

Meridian

Popular walking locations, such as the Brisbane Ranges, Lerderderg and Werribee Gorges, Hattah-Kulkyne, Mornington Peninsula, Dandenong Ranges and others are covered by Meridian’s Walking and Park Maps. The maps can be purchased as paper or are also available in a georeferenced form through the Avenza app map shop.

OpenStreetMap

OpenStreetMap is a free editable map of the world maintained by over ten million volunteers. These maps form the basis of the maps used in many Smartphone mapping apps. Many areas are mapped in great detail, including the accurate plotting of walking tracks. Occasionally, one may come across a remote area where the mapping is incomplete. Printing of these maps can be done through a number of websites. Inkatlas is one such site which is free, easy to use and you can add your own track plots too. It can print in black/white and A4 multipage so expensive printing is not required.

Cartography Community Mapping

CCM provides large scale topographic maps of areas around central Victoria, particularly Castlemaine. Scaled at 1:10,000 to 1:20,000, the maps are produced for bushwalkers and show walking tracks, access roads, vegetation, contours, and features of interest. They are free and provided as pdf files for printing (mainly on A3 paper), as KMZ files for Garmin GPS devices and as Geotiff for use in Avenza.

Melway

This much-loved street directory does show minor roads and some walking tracks. In some areas the tracks are incomplete or inaccurately marked. There is also an online version.

Parks Victoria

Parks Vic visitor guides (Parknotes) often contain wide-ranging information on visitor facilities, walks and a good sketch map of the park. Whilst a few of these are currently available through the Parks Vic website in the web pages related to the particular park, the complete catalogue is available at the Parks Victoria Visitor Guides Resource Library. Many of the maps are also available in a georeferenced form through the Avenza app map shop for free.

Rooftop and Hayman maps

These maps can be only obtained through map resellers and outdoors shops - see list below. The Forest Activities Map series are the ones for walkers, at a scale of 1:50,000 or 1:30,000, with more detailed insert maps of some areas. The Rooftop maps cover some popular walking areas such as the Cathedral Ranges, Marysville district and Victorian Alpine areas.

Google and Apple maps

These online maps are primarily road maps but do show some tracks in some areas. Both are available as apps for a Smartphone and Google maps are readily opened on a desktop.

Google Earth

Don’t forget this superb resource. Once you have decided on your walk route, you can visualise it on Google Earth, checking out every twist and turn. If you don’t have the program on your desktop or smartphone, you can use the web version.

Local Organisations

Don’t forget local organisations. Councils, alpine resort managements etc often produce excellent maps and track notes of walks in their areas.

Walkers requiring maps of areas adjoining Victoria’s borders (e.g. Kosciuszko National Park) can source them from interstate bodies or seek help from local Map Distributors and Outdoors shops. Distributers are able to print some interstate map series on demand.

Map Distributers and Resellers

ABC Maps – shop and online. Maps printed on demand.

Maps, Books and Travel Guides – shop and online. Maps printed on demand. Laminating and printing on waterproof paper can be provided.

MapWorks – shop and online

The above list is not exhaustive, but can start you on the way to finding quality, up-to-date maps for your bushwalks.

A final word – Printing from electronic maps for bushwalking

An increasing number of maps are being published in electronic form only. Many of these maps are in geopdf format and can be printed to the correct scale in ‘tiles’ on a home printer, using free software e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader. Detailed instructions are in the article How to Print Electronic Maps

Links and sources accurate as at 10 June 2024. Link validity and link content are subject to change.

This information provided by Andrew Robinson

Posted on by

Choosing a Grampians Map

Victoria’s Gariwerd/Grampians National Park is a national treasure. With a vast track network, rugged mountains, fabulous rock formations, abundant fauna and magnificent wildflowers, this NP is on many a walker’s ‘must explore’ list. There are numerous good maps out there: your choice should be based on what you want to do. Day walks? A base camp comprising a wide variety of walks? Overnight walks? Perhaps the Grampians Peaks Trail? A few recommended maps are listed here.

For planning: a medium scaled map (about 1:100,000) which shows the entire region is an essential planning tool for an extended stay. Three suggested maps are:

  • The Grampians (Gariwerd) Touring Guide.
    • Publisher: Meridian Maps, 2024. Scale: 1:100,000
    • This map is packed with information on roads, tracks, camping grounds, visitor facilities and tourist sites. An ideal planning map.
  • The Grampians Special
    • Publisher: Vicmap, 2022. Double sided. Main map scale: 1:100,000
    • Enlargements of four popular areas: Wonderland, 1:10,000; Halls Gap, 1:25,000; Mount Zero – Mount Stapylton, 1:25,000; Zumsteins – MacKenzie Falls, 1:25,000
    • This comprehensive collection of maps features many walking trails.
  • The Grampians Touring and Road map.
    • Publisher: Parks Victoria, 2021. Scale: 1:125,000
    • Easy to read, but lacks the detail of the two maps above.

For walking: a larger scale map is recommended for walking. Options include:

  • Grampians Peaks Trail: 3 maps, North, Central, South
    • Publisher: Parks Victoria, Double sided. 2022 (Revised). Scale: 1:50,000
    • Absolutely essential for those walking part or all of this iconic trail. This topographical map has the trail and campsites clearly marked. On the reverse side is detailed information on access, campgrounds and tracks.
  • Northern Grampians and Southern Grampians Outdoor Recreation Guides
    • Publisher: Spatial Vision, 2019. Scale: 1:50,000. Double sided
    • Topographic map with detailed tracks and campsites marked.
    • The back of each map provides a large amount of information on activities and walks in the area, as well as notes on flora, fauna and history.
  • Topographic map sheets
    • Publisher: Vicmap, various dates. Scale: 1:25,000
    • Topographic maps.
    • About 12 sheets are required to cover the whole national park.

All the maps listed are available on paper and many are also available in electronic form and can be used in apps like Avenza Maps.

There are also many walk books and pamphlets (not to mention websites) which contain sketch maps and track notes. Parks Vic provides a Visitor Guide and pamphlets with sketch maps and track notes (Northern Day Walks; Wonderland/Central Day Walks; Southern Day Walks – all revised 2021) which are available at information/tourist centers and map shops.

Andrew Robinson

May 2024

Posted on by

Brush up on your navigation skills: Resources

Whether you’re new to navigation and would like some introductory information, or if you want to brush up on how to read a map, use a compass, or hone a specific navigation technique, CLICK HERE for a comprehensive list of resources, created by Andrew Robinson.

The short video clips are particularly useful. With these skills (as Australia’s late pioneering bushwalker Paddy Pallin said) you’ll be “Never Truly Lost”

Posted on by

Popular walking maps updated

Four maps, all highly popular with Victorian bushwalkers, have recently been updated. Published by Meridian Maps, they are available through bushwalking stores and specialist map stockists – check out BWV’s Discount Partners for the new editions.

  1. Lerderderg and Werribee Gorges State Parks, 7th 1:35,000 & 1:20,000
    Located close to Melbourne, these parks are renowned for their fascinating gorges, diverse flora and fauna, and picturesque walking trails.
    • The new edition incorporates over 200 changes, and a completely new map of Long Forest Reserve, including the Coimadai Creek Trail, has been added.
  1. Mornington Peninsula Walks, 2nd edition – Revised. 1:20,000 &1:25,000
    This region offers a wide range of excellent walks in the Mornington Peninsula National Park, Point Nepean NP and Arthurs Seat State Park, plus coastal and conservation reserves.
    • The revised version contains a number of changes, particularly to the Two Bays Walking Trail and to features in the Point Nepean National Park.
  1. Brisbane Ranges National Park, 3rd 1:30,000 & 1:15,000
    This park, with its low mountain range and rocky gullies, is a rich habitat for wildflowers and birds. It offers a fantastic variety of walks, including the 3-day Burchell Trail.
    • Changes include new track notes and adjustments to a number of walking and 4WD tracks.
  1. Great South West Walk and Lower Glenelg Map, 4th 1:50,000
    The ‘go to’ map for those wishing to explore the amazing diversity of the Lower Glenelg, Cobboboonee and Mount Richmond National Parks, and Discovery Bay Coastal Park.
    • A number of details across the maps have been added or updated and additional short walks have been included.

These maps are also available in georeferenced electronic form through the phone app Avenza, which has full navigational ability. So you can always be confident of knowing exactly where you are!

Posted on by

The Practical Value of Bushwalking Clubs: Learning and Safety

Bushwalking Clubs play a crucial role in providing education, safety training, and ongoing skill development for those keen to explore Victoria’s tracks. Here we explore the practical benefits of joining a bushwalking club, focusing on how they serve as invaluable resources for learning and safety in the wilderness.

Learning the Essentials:

For beginners, bushwalking can be overwhelming. Clubs offer structured guidance, teaching navigation skills, gear essentials, and survival techniques through workshops and outings.  Some clubs even offer low or no-cost hire equipment.

Prioritising Safety:

Safety is non-negotiable both in the wilderness, and closer to home. Clubs can prioritise safety through training programs and resources, ensuring that members are equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the trails with confidence and caution.

Continuous Skill Development:

Bushwalking is a lifelong learning journey. Clubs may offer basic through to advanced navigation, first aid, and specialised outdoor skills to enhance members’ proficiency on the trails.

A Glimpse into Club Activities:

Recent club activities have showcased the diverse range of learning opportunities available:

  • From practical navigation field days to informative sessions on lightweight walking techniques, members are continually exposed to new ideas and strategies for mastering the tracks.
  • Workshops on smartphone navigation and GPS usage offer modern solutions for navigating the wilderness with precision and confidence.
  • The development of new leadership training materials created by Bushwalking Victoria promises to further enrich members’ abilities to lead and inspire fellow bushwalkers.

Bushwalking Clubs are practical resources for walkers at every level. By prioritising learning and safety, clubs empower their members to explore the outdoors responsibly and confidently.

Find a Bushwalking Club near you

Posted on by

Poo pots

As more and more people head out into the wilderness, it is crucial that we do our part to keep our wilderness areas clean.

We shared this ABC article on our Facebook page, and it generated a lot of chat.

Do you carry a trowel?  How about a poo pot? What’s your best advice for leaving no trace when it comes to toileting on bushwalks?

We would love to hear your thoughts.  Join the conversation.

Posted on by

Preparing for Summer Camping – from the Conservation Regulator

The Conservation Regulator oversees the regulation of wildlife, forests and public land in Victoria.  With summer finally here, they are keen to help everyone stay safe in the bush with some great tips on summer camping.

With hotter and drier conditions predicted this summer, a high fire risk, and more visitors anticipated in our forests and beaches, we want all Victorians to be campfire safe and to look out for others when visiting the great outdoors – wildlife included!

If you’re setting up camp in the bush over the next few months, it’s important to brush up on campfire rules before leaving home to avoid risking communities and the environment. Prepare before lighting your campfire by making sure you:

  1. Know how to build and maintain a safe campfire: always use a purpose-built fireplace or dig a 30cm deep trench, clear 3m around it of flammable materials, and keep all branches and logs under 1m long.
  2. Know the rules specific to your campsite: this can differ between forests and parks. Check the Parks Victoria website or call them 131 963 for National Park information. Call 136 186 for rules in state forests.
  3. Check the weather conditions and Fire Danger Ratings: never light a fire on a Total Fire Ban day, and if it’s hot and windy, consider if you really need a fire. If in doubt, don’t light one.
  4. Have quick access to at least 10 litres of water: pack a bucket and keep it filled with water, not soil, to make sure your campfire can be completely extinguished.

Campers are responsible for keeping their campfires safe, including never leaving it unwatched or unattended, and if you leave the campsite even if only for a short while, put out your campfire. If it’s cool to touch, it’s safe to leave.

And whether you’re heading out for a long trip or just for the day, make sure you follow all public land rules to prevent environmental harm and wildlife crime:

  • Littering: Clean up after yourself and take all rubbish home with you.
  • Off-road vehicles: Drivers and riders must be licenced, have vehicles registered, and stick to open, formed roads.
  • Other recreational activities: If you want to pan for gold, fly your drone, or go horse-riding or mountain bike-riding, there are specific rules you need to follow. For more info, visit the More to Explore app.
  • Wildlife: Marine mammals and hooded plovers will be active along the coast and reptiles will be out in forests. Keep your distance, have dogs on-lead, and never feed them.

Authorised Officers are patrolling in forests and along the coast to ensure everyone knows and follows camping, campfire, and outdoor recreation rules to prevent environmental harm and wildlife crime.

You can report any illegal behaviour on public land to 136 186 and any wildlife crime to Crime Stoppers Victoria on 1800 333 000. Bushfires should be reported to 000. For more information about rules in state forests, visit their website.

You can read and subscribe to the Conservation Regulator newsletter for all the latest news, including information on reporting offences, and an update on the outcome of legal cases.

Posted on by

FedWalks 2024 – Save the Date!

We are pleased to confirm that FedWalks 2024, where we will celebrate the 90th Anniversary of Bushwalking Victoria, will take place at Wilsons Promontory, with a base at Tidal River, on 11-13 October 2024.  Accommodation for 300+ attendees has already been secured for the event, in roofed lodges or huts, powered and unpowered campsites.

The organising clubs for this event are Bayside Bushwalking Club, Melbourne Bushwalking Club and South Gippsland Walking and Adventure Club, so we are certainly in for a wonderfully organised event, with a wide range of walks over the weekend.

Save the date for now, more info and bookings will open in 2024.