Category: News

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Beyond Following the Leader – Grampians Bushwalking Clubs Navigation Training Day

Article kindly contributed by Lee Gasser from Camperdown Bushwalking Club.

How many of us bushwalkers enjoy our hikes but are quite happy to follow the leader? That was me for the first couple of years after joining a bushwalking club.

Then I decided to become more involved and started leading walks. I began with walks I knew well, then gradually added new ones, heading out beforehand for a recce before taking a group. The source of my walks was predominantly trusted books, National Parks maps and established walk lists, yes, even AllTrails.

I also participated in off-track walks led by experienced leaders and absolutely loved the freedom of being able to get away from the beaten track. The next step for me was gaining more knowledge and experience in navigation so I could feel confident participating in, and eventually leading, walks where navigation skills were more important.

I already had reasonable map-reading skills, was comfortable loading a GPX file and following a course on my GPS and had learned more through leadership and navigation sessions run by Bushwalking Victoria and Camperdown Bushwalking Club. What I really needed though was practice with manual navigation.

So when I saw our neighbouring club, Grampians Bushwalking Club, offering a navigation day on a mountain I hadn’t previously explored, I jumped at the chance to join in.

While the original plan for the day evolved into more of an off-track walk guided by an experienced leader, it turned out to be exactly the practice I needed. I arrived with my 1:25,000 topographic map, the Avenza app loaded with the relevant map on my phone, a compass and my Garmin GPS.

Grampians Nav 3

What I really appreciated was the opportunity to quiz Julie, the leader and President of the Grampians Bushwalking Club on things I wasn’t sure about, practice taking bearings, recognise features in the surrounding landscape and match them back to the map, and check that I was correctly interpreting contours and terrain.

We had a lot of fun making our way through the bush and enjoyed lunch on the summit of Mt Gorrin. It was a great day out and an excellent way to build knowledge and confidence.

There is certainly plenty more practice required, but each time I get out there and use these skills, I know my confidence will continue to grow.

Many Bushwalking Victoria Affiliated Clubs offer navigation training and experience, Find a Club near you.

Grampians Nav 4
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Bushwalking is Booming in Victoria

The latest 2026 AusPlay data confirms bushwalking is continuing to thrive as one of Victoria’s most popular physical activities.

According to the Victorian statistics:

  • 937,035 Victorians participated in bushwalking, that's up 10% from last year
  • Bushwalking recorded a 16.1% participation rate
  • Participation is now larger than many traditional sports including tennis, basketball and Australian football

Bigger Than Many Traditional Sports

The participation numbers place bushwalking ahead of many traditional organised sports in Victoria.

The data reflects a major shift toward flexible, low-cost outdoor recreation and informal physical activity.

Thriving Across All Ages

The data also shows bushwalking is thriving across almost every adult age group:

  • 18-24 years: 14%
  • 25–34 years: 19%
  • 35–44 years: 19%
  • 45–54 years: 17%
  • 55–64 years: 19%
  • 65+ years: 9%

More than 204,000 Victorians aged 25–34 participated, highlighting the continued growth of hiking culture, adventure travel and nature-based recreation among younger adults.

Importantly, participation remains strong right through to older age groups, with 107,615 Victorians aged over 65 participating, reinforcing bushwalking’s reputation as an accessible, lifelong activity.

Bushwalking Vs Hiking

Interestingly, participants were given the option of calling their participation hiking or bushwalking.

  • Bushwalking: 56%
  • Hiking: 42%
  • Virtual Bush Walking: 2% (digital experience that recreates the feeling of exploring a wilderness trail, while you walk on a treadmill or in local streets)

Motivations

Causes of Drop Out

The figures highlight the growing importance of:

  • Walking tracks and trail infrastructure
  • Regional outdoor tourism
  • Public land access
  • Bushwalking clubs and volunteers
  • Investment in outdoor recreation

The message from the latest AusPlay release is clear: bushwalking is no longer a niche activity in Victoria -  it is now one of the state’s major participation activities.

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Spot an Issue on the Trail? Snap Send Solve It

Bushwalkers are often the first people to spot problems on Victoria’s tracks and trails - from dumped rubbish and blocked paths to damaged signs, bridges or trail infrastructure.

One of the easiest ways to report these issues is through Snap Send Solve.

Snap Send Solve allows the public to quickly report issues in parks and natural areas across Victoria. The free app or online form enables users to submit photos, location details, and descriptions of problems, such as litter, damaged facilities, or safety hazards, in under 30 seconds. Reports are routed directly to relevant teams for timely action, whether is be Parks Victoria, local councils or other land managers.

Why use it?

Snap Send Solve makes reporting faster and more accurate by sending:

  • A GPS location
  • Photos of the issue
  • A description of the problem

This helps land managers quickly identify exactly where the issue is and what needs attention, reducing delays and streamlining maintenance responses.

What should you report?

Common trail issues include:

  • Dumped rubbish
  • Fallen trees blocking tracks
  • Damaged signs
  • Broken boardwalks or bridges
  • Unsafe infrastructure
  • Overflowing bins
  • Graffiti or vandalism

A quick report from the trail can help improve safety, protect natural areas and support the teams and volunteers maintaining Victoria’s outdoor spaces.

Before you head out

Download the app before your next walk or ride and help keep Victoria’s trails safe and enjoyable for everyone.  Snap Send Solve Official Website

Other ways to report issues in Victoria

While Snap Send Solve is great for everyday maintenance and infrastructure issues, some problems are better reported directly to the relevant Victorian authority.

You can also report:

The more accurate information you can provide, including photos, GPS locations and clear descriptions, the easier it is for agencies to investigate and respond quickly.

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BTAC Track Maintenance, Myrtle Loop Walk, Yarra Ranges NP

The aim of this project was to reopen the Myrtle Loop Walk at the Beeches Picnic Area on Lady Talbot Drive out of Marysville. This short (600m) loop walk had been closed for a long time due to lots of large fallen timber after the Black Saturday fires.

To work out the scope of the job, Ranger Steve, John and myself did a recce in the week before. We found the line of the track sometimes with great difficulty, needing to negotiate multiple large logs across each other. It didn’t take long for us to realise that this is a high value track that would be worth the effort to re-establish. It is a fine example of the regenerating Myrtle Beech and Ash forest of the area. There is lots of interesting fungi on display at present.

 

The plan of attack was to put a team of 2 arbor saws, a hedgetrimmer and thrower through to clear space for the big saws and track clearers to work. As there was much wood in varying states of decay on the track, the clearers were armed with crowbars and mattock to break it up or lever it off the track. A brushcutter did a final cleanup after everyone was through.

We took advantage of being only 300m from the trailer and had a sausage sizzle for lunch with tea or coffee with carrot cake.

The teams worked through the track very efficiently (maybe the caffeine at lunch helped) and we completed the circuit by the end of the day.

Marysville Caravan Park was a good base being very close to a bakery and pub. No doubt we all enjoyed a pub meal in the evening with the satisfaction of having worked well as a team and finishing the job earlier than expected. To quote one volunteer, “it was good to see a worthwhile track transition from woe to go”.

11 Volunteers – 5 chainsaws, 1 hedgetrimmer, 1 brushcutter, 2 crowbars, mattock and rake.

600m of track cleared (re-established) in 77 volunteer work hours plus 46 travel hours.

Patrick Platt

Activity Leader

8-10 May 2026

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BTAC AAWT Square Top Clearing

The AAWT in the region of Square Top had a clearing in February 2024. However, the job was not completed, principally because of the long distance to walk in the tools from The Nobs. After much consideration, planning, postponing and re-planning, the job was finally done in mid-May. Two rangers and four BTAC volunteers met in Mansfield on Thursday 14 May. In two Parks Vic vehicles, we drove up Mount Clear Track to camp about 1 km west of where this 4WD track meets the AAWT, about 2 km north of Mt Clear. That afternoon, we walked our tools, fuel and protective gear up over Mt Clear to the saddle just before Square Top, leaving it there in preparation for the next day.

On day 2 we walked in again over Mt Clear and set to work. There was plenty for the chainsaws to do but relatively light work for the hedge trimmers, until we came to the saddle half-way along Square Top. We were then faced with chest-high overgrowing scrub of alpine pea, completely obscuring the track. We managed to cut a wide path through and met up with the start of the previously cleared work, just in time to begin our walk back. With the chainsaws doing a little further tidying up along the way, we arrived back at the vehicles just as the daylight was fading.

Rangers James and Emily excelled in catering for us, including cooking a delicious barbecue meal both nights. We were glad to have had the job postponed to this time: the weather was perfect- clear
skies and cool, sunny days.

Another small section of the AAWT has been improved.

John Green

14-16 May 2026

 

 

 

 

 

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Your Hiking Crew Is Growing – Now What?

More and more people are getting into hiking through informal groups - weekend hikes with friends, Facebook or Instagram groups, Meetup crews, and local networks. It’s social, flexible, and a great way to get outdoors.

These groups often feel pretty different to traditional bushwalking clubs. They’re usually more casual, easier to join, and a bit more spontaneous - which is a good thing. It shows bushwalking is growing and changing.

But as groups get bigger or more active, a few questions tend to pop up. Things like how to stay organised, how to keep everyone included, and how to keep trips safe and running smoothly.

This isn’t about overcomplicating things - just about making sure what’s working now can keep working as your group grows.

What changes as your group grows?

A small group of mates is easy. But once more people start joining or more walks get planned, things can shift:

  • More people to coordinate
  • Different fitness and experience levels
  • More pressure on whoever’s organising
  • Higher expectations around planning

That’s all normal. But it can help to think ahead. Some common questions groups start asking:

  • How do we keep things running smoothly?
  • How do we support people who step up to lead?
  • What happens if something goes wrong? 
  • Do we need to think about insurance?

You’re not the first to ask these - a lot of established clubs have worked through the same challenges over time.

What about bushwalking clubs?

Let’s be honest - bushwalking clubs can have a bit of a reputation for being older or more formal. And while many do have long-standing members, that’s not the whole story.

Clubs can offer things like:

  • Systems for organising walks
  • Support for walk leaders
  • Insurance and risk management
  • Mentoring and a community with many, many years of experience

The real question isn’t whether these things are useful - it’s whether the style feels right for your group.

Do you need to become a club?

Not necessarily. Some groups want to stay exactly as they are - and that’s totally fine. Others start wondering if there’s a middle ground. Something that keeps the relaxed, social vibe but adds a bit of structure where it helps. That could look like:

  • Keeping things flexible and social
  • Adding simple systems as you grow
  • Getting access to training or support
  • Sharing leadership across the group

It’s not about changing your identity - just supporting it as it evolves.

Staying informal (but still connected)

You don’t have to become a formal club to stay on track. But staying connected to the wider bushwalking community can be really valuable:

  • Learn from other groups
  • Pick up tips and good ideas
  • Get support when things get tricky
  • Team up for bigger opportunities

You can stay independent and connected at the same time.

A quick check-in for your group

If your group is growing, it might be worth a quick chat amongst your hike organisers about:

  • Where do we want to be in a year or two?
  • Do our organisers and leaders feel supported?
  • Are we set up to handle different skill levels?
  • Have we thought about safety and risk (including insurance)?

There’s no pressure, no “right” answer - just a chance to stay ahead of the curve.

Want to connect?

Bushwalking Victoria supports all kinds of walking groups - formal and informal. That might mean:

  • Staying informal but linking in to the bushwalking community
  • Getting advice or mentoring
  • Exploring affiliation or starting something new
  • Or just having a chat

If you’re curious, reach out.  We are a friendly bunch who love supporting people to get into nature.  Email us at admin@bushwalkingvictoria.org.au

Bushwalking is for everyone - and there’s no one “right” way to be part of it.

Thanks to The Hiking Tribe for the excellent image

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“Heading Out” for a Quick Hike – Lessons from the Celine Cremer Tragedy

When you’re heading out for a quick hike, it’s easy to think: It’s only a short walk. I’ll be fine. That mindset is exactly what safety experts warn against.

The tragic story of Celine Cremer is a powerful reminder of how quickly things can go wrong - even on a simple outing.

In 2023, Celine set out alone for what was meant to be a short walk near Philosopher Falls in Tasmania. She relied on her phone for navigation. She didn’t return.

Her disappearance triggered a large-scale search. Sadly, her remains were only found much later, after family and friends organised their own efforts. In the ABC Australian Story, her friends and family share a simple message that hits hard:

Before your next hike, ask yourself:

  • Who knows where I’m going?
  • What’s my backup if my phone fails?
  • Am I prepared if something goes wrong - even for a short walk?

You can watch and read more here:

The key lessons every walker needs to hear

1. Always tell someone where you’re going

This is one of the simplest - and most important - safety steps. Before you leave:

  • Tell someone your planned route
  • Let them know when you expect to be back
  • Agree on when they should raise the alarm if you don’t check in

If something goes wrong, this information can make the difference between a quick rescue and a long search.

2. Your phone is a tool - not a safety plan

Phones are great… until they’re not. In remote areas:

  • Signal can disappear
  • GPS accuracy drops (especially in dense forest or valleys)
  • Apps like Google Maps aren’t built for bush tracks

Even offline maps have limits - they often miss terrain detail, hazards, and smaller tracks.

Better approach:

  • Carry a paper map
  • Bring a compass
  • Use a proper hiking GPS or app designed for bushwalking
  • Always have a backup

3. Stay on track (especially if you’re inexperienced)

Going off-track might seem harmless - a shortcut, a quick detour, a better photo.But it’s one of the fastest ways to get lost.

Tracks exist for a reason:

  • They’re mapped and maintained
  • They reduce navigation errors
  • They help rescuers find you if needed

If you’re still building experience, stick to marked routes.

4. There’s no such thing as a “just a short walk”

Many incidents happen close to the trailhead. Short walks can still involve:

  • Changing weather
  • Slippery or uneven terrain
  • Poor signage
  • Limited phone coverage

Treat every walk with respect:

  • Check the conditions
  • Bring water and snacks
  • Pack basic safety gear. (First aid kit, lightweight bivvy bag, waterproof clothing)
  • Wear appropriate clothing

5. If you get lost - stop moving

It’s instinct to keep walking and “try to find your way out.” But that often makes things worse.

If you’re lost:

  • Stop
  • Stay where you are
  • Make yourself visible
  • Conserve energy

Search teams work from your last known location. Staying put gives them the best chance of finding you quickly.

Learn the basics before you go

The Bushwalking Victoria Bushwalking Manual is a great starting point for understanding navigation, preparation, and safety. It’s practical, beginner-friendly, and designed for exactly these situations.

Celine Cremer’s story is heartbreaking - but it’s also preventable. Hiking doesn’t have to be risky. With a bit of preparation and the right mindset, it’s one of the safest and most rewarding ways to spend time outdoors.

So before your next hike, ask yourself:

  • Who knows where I’m going?
  • What’s my backup if my phone fails?
  • Am I prepared if something goes wrong - even for a short walk?

Because getting home safely is the goal, every time.

 

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BTAC joins forces with FoBB to work on the AAWT

For a number of years now the Bushwalking Victoria group Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation (BTAC) have had an annual activity working with Parks Victoria (PV) and the Friends of Baw Baw National Park (FoBB) on various tracks within the Park with a focus on the 46km of the Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) that is within the Park and the Walhalla Historic Area.

The original plan was to establish camp at Talbot Hut, situated at almost 1,500 metres elevation, and clear the overgrown section of the AAWT from Talbot Hut towards the Rock Shelter, covering 6.7km. However, a week prior, the weather forecast predicted possible snowfall and near-freezing conditions throughout the activity. In response, the team sought alternative work in a lower-altitude area. After discussions with Parks Victoria, it was decided to tackle the AAWT from Walhalla to O’Sheas Mill Site, avoiding the section currently cordoned off for Poverty Point Bridge repairs, which are expected to finish mid-2026. While not as urgent as the initial plan, this work would still enhance the walking experience. The change in location allowed volunteers to camp comfortably at Erica Caravan Park, enjoying hot showers, a campfire under shelter, BBQs, and electric kettles.

Thirteen volunteers participated over the weekend, supported by PV Ranger Mark, who contributed with brush cutting, chainsawing, and preparing a delicious BBQ dinner on Saturday evening. The volunteers dedicated 168 work hours to clearing and tidying up 6.6km of track. Including travel, preparation, and administration, the total volunteer contribution reached approximately 250 hours.

On Friday, PV rangers who had initially planned to help establish camp at Talbot Hut site instead cleared the Firebreak Track from Mt Erica Road down to O’Sheas Mill Site, covering 4.6km. This combined effort resulted in the first (or last, if walking southbound) 18km of the AAWT being cleared, except for the 6.4km currently off limits due to bridge repairs.

Despite forecasts for cool temperatures and showers, the group experienced excellent working conditions overall. However, one volunteer returned to find their tent collapsed and soaked. The volunteers did not escape all the leeches, and first aid was required for a couple of cuts.

Sincere thanks to all the volunteers for their time, hard work, and camaraderie. Appreciation also goes to Parks Victoria for their support and the BBQ, with special mention to Mark for his commitment throughout the weekend.

Joe van Beek
Activity Leader

10-12 April 2026

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Sydney Base Camp 2026

Koonung Bushwalking Club (KBC) headed off for our biennial trip to Sydney in late March.  Out of the 16 participants we had 6 members who hadn’t been with us previously.  These trips have been offered by the club since 2012.

We stayed at the YHA in the Rocks. Our location was close to Circular Quay, and the rooftop gave us amazing views over the harbour taking in the Opera House and the Bridge.  We had a great seat for fireworks and one night were treated to a spectacular show with thunder and lightning.

The only negative experience at the YHA was a 2am evacuation for a fire alarm!

As usual we walked on 4 days and had an optional sightseeing trip on the other day.

Day 1 we walked 12 km from Mosman Bay to Balmoral. A bushy walk very close to home with spectacular views of the harbour. It included a visit to the Royal Australian Navy memorial and the historical military sites at Middle Head.

Day 2 we split into two groups.  One group led by Karen Sheedy, headed to various spots around the harbour including Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden and some enjoyed a swim.  The others took the train up to Mount Kuring-Gai to do a challenging walk along Cowan Waters up to Berowra.  Only downside were the leeches.

Day 3, 13 of us headed to Cockatoo Island which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the middle of Sydney harbour. We had an interesting tour as the island was formerly a convict penal establishment and naval shipyard.

Day 4 we travelled 3 stops on the train to walk around Balls Head, Berry Island and Greenwich. It was amazing to be in native bushland so close to the city. Throughout the walk of 10km we had outstanding harbour views.

Day 5 we headed up to Collaroy to walk 11.5 km down to Manly.  The spectacular coastal views along the way were highlighted by the dark skies which were with us most of the day. Although rain was expected we managed to get home without getting wet. We were joined most of the day by walkers on the Coast Trek Sydney Walk.  Mainly young girls raising money for Beyond Blue who were walking 50,30 or 20kms.

As usual our final day ended up with a celebratory dinner at the local pub. It was a wonderful and stimulating time together time. Thanks to Anne Fyffe, supported by her husband Wayne.  Anne organised and led this excellent Sydney base camp experience.

 

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BTAC Activity Report: Mt Buffalo National Park Track Clearing 27 Feb to 1 March 26

10 BTAC Volunteers met with Parks Vic Ranger Zoey Godfrey at the Lake Catani campground on Friday 27 for a welcome and induction in preparation for an early start the next day. Zoey outlined her expectations and safety requirements and that we would be working on Saturday morning to clear tracks in the Le Souf Plateau area of the Mt Buffalo National Park.

When we left Melbourne heavy rainfall was underway across Victoria and by good fortune avoided Mt Buffalo and we able to get the job done in fine and warm conditions.

The trip was a first visit to Mt Buffalo for some volunteers.  As the work progressed all expressed admiration for the ever present expansive views of the rugged granite  terrain  and surrounding mountains, and this is reflected in the photos.

The Lake Catani campground is a Parks Vic hidden gem.  It has first class camping facilities and is a great place to chill out or go for a walk after working on the tracks,  Some volunteers opted to take up Parks kind offer of staying on an extra night.

The project was conducted safely with no reported safety incidents or issues.

The  main work objectives  for the weekend were to:

  • clear by brush cutting, hedge trimming , and raking excessive vegetation over tracks in the Le Souf Plateau and Cathedral area.
  • locate and clear drainage features on pathways, conserving their heritage value and sensitivity to further erosion using line trimming, matocking where appropriate and blowing to expose as well as cleanup

Tracks in this area contain frequent formed stone  steps and staircases . They have been in place for more than 50 years and required careful treatment so as to not disturb the placement of each rock step and its water drain features, and not to cause damage that will create future erosion issues.

The team used normal brush cutting, raking and tossing methods to clear excessive vegetation.  The ensuing drainage maintenance was more of a conservation exercise with track features passed first with a pack mounted blower and then carefully manicured with line trimmers and some low impact matocking before the blower was used as a final debris removal leaving the stairs, etc. looking like brand new!

Blowing causes leaves, accumulated dirt and debris to fly everywhere. We were fortunate to have hot showers at the Lake Catani campsite so we could all get clean at end of day.  This process, implemented recently by Zoey certainly is effective on rock stair tracks but not so on sandy surfaces where the powerful air flow can easily erode the track surface.  Well done to Robyn, Emily and Toby for their enthusiastic adoption of this new BTAC technology!

Other worthy mentions are Heather, Mark, Phil, Colin and Yvonne, for their constant hard work on brush cutting, raking and tossing, and to Peter for celebrating his birthday with us!   Also thanks to Zoey for the delicious BBQ meal!

For those interested we contributed approx. 240 volunteer and achieved the following stats.

Le Souf Track and side tracks to The Sentinel, Mahomet’s Tomb. Corral Peak and the Castle.

Works completed:

  • 1200 m Brush cutting. Line trimming and clean up
  • 800m Hedge trimming
  • 500 m Track blowing to remove debris and expose drainage
  • 400 m drains on Sentinel Track
  • Replaced totem and temporary sign on Castle track

The Hump and Cathedral track

Works completed:

  • 2000m blowing (up and down ) to expose drains and remove debris
  • 900m  brush cutting and hedge trimming
  • 500m clearance of well hidden drains
  • Replacement of totem on Cathedral track

Trip Photos can be found here

The project was a great success and we are all looking forward to next year

Mike Grant

BTAC Project Leader

The class of February 2026