Category: News

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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.

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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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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

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Bushwalkers mark 90-year milestone

The 90th anniversary of organised bushwalking in Victoria will be celebrated at Wilsons Promontory National Park over the weekend of 11-13 October 2024, when bushwalkers from clubs from all over Victoria will gather for a program of walks, talks and friendship.

The President of Bushwalking Victoria, Robyn Shingles, said 330 bushwalkers from the state’s 60 affiliated clubs would take part in the event, organised by the Bayside Bushwalking Club in partnership with Parks Victoria.

“This year’s event promises to be one of our most exciting yet, celebrating the 90th anniversary of Bushwalking Victoria with over 20 walks — some hard, medium and easy — that highlight the natural beauty of the Prom.”

Ms Shingles said Bushwalking Victoria was the peak body for bushwalkers and bushwalking clubs in Victoria. The organisation was formed in 1934 as the Federation of Victorian Bushwalking Clubs to be a strategic voice in decision making around the conservation and management of national and state parks in Victoria and to promote bushwalking as a healthy, environmentally responsible activity.

The guest speaker at the event on Saturday evening will be Professor David Lindenmayer from the Australian National University, Canberra, who is an advocate for expanding national parks in Victoria in the aftermath of the decision to halt logging in state parks and public land.

Prof Lindenmayer will speak on the importance of good management of national parks —both ecologically and economically.

“New forms of finance will be needed to ensure that there are sufficient well targeted resources (including monitoring) to support good protection as well as good management; this includes management of the impacts of people,” Prof Lindenmayer said.

Parks Victoria’s chief ranger for Wilsons Promontory, Brett Mitchell, will give an update on walking track maintenance schedules and progress on the predator exclusion fence. 

The President of the Bayside Bushwalking Club, Lyn Curtis, said “More than 20 per cent of Victoria’s native plant species and half of its bird species occur in the national park, which makes it a very significant environmental area,” Ms Curtis said.

“Bushwalkers love the Prom. The variety of landscapes —from mountains to squeaky beaches —make it a special place. Thousands of Victorian families have holidayed here over the years and generations of people have learned to love nature because of their experiences here,” Ms Curtis said. 

Ms Shingles said the event would also acknowledge the role of volunteer bushwalkers in search and rescue.

“Unfortunately, people have been getting lost in the bush since the first days of settlement. Bushwalkers became involved in search and rescue in an organised way in 1949 when 15 hikers sailed from Port Welshpool to Sealers Cove to help in the search for Alfred Howie whose body was never found.”

Ms Shingles said a highly trained Bush Search and Rescue (BSAR) service now supported Victoria Police in searches for people lost in bushland and the snowfields.

“There are over 250 volunteers, all experienced and skilled bushwalkers, ready to back up Victoria Police’s Search and Rescue Squad whenever required.”

The weekend also acknowledges the contribution of volunteers with the Bush Track and Conservation arm who carry out hands-on work on tracks and conservation projects in national and state parks and prepared the tracks for the celebration weekend.

“Bushwalking Victoria is dedicated to promoting the joys and benefits of bushwalking across our beautiful state. The annual FedWalks event is a celebration of our bushwalking community, bringing together members from across the state to explore stunning landscapes, share experiences and build new friendships,” Ms Shingles said.

Bayside Bushwalking Club led the organisation of the event with support from Melbourne Bushwalkers, Gisborne Walking Club and South Gippsland Walking and Adventure Club. Over 50 walk leaders and 20 support staff —all volunteers —will back up the walkers from a marquee at Tidal River, where walkers have booked out the roofed accommodation for the weekend.

To further celebrate the 90th Anniversary, affiliated bushwalking clubs from across Victoria are opening their walks up to new participants for Try Bushwalking Month this November to showcase the incredible benefits of bushwalking with a club.  With 60+ walking events across Victoria led by over 30 clubs, there’s a walk for almost everyone.

For interviews and more information contact:

Lyn Curtis, President Bayside Bushwalking Club: 0409 401 482, lyn.curtis@bigpond.com

Richelle Olsen, Executive Officer Bushwalking Victoria: 0402 936 397, eo@bushwalkingvictoria.org.au

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BTAC Tidies Up Tracks before Federation Walks 2024

The Federation Walks Weekend for 2024, which marks the 90th anniversary of Bushwalking Victoria, is being held at Wilsons Promontory National Park on the weekend of 11-13 October. The event is being hosted at Tidal River by Bayside Bushwalking Club, ably supported by the Melbourne Bushwalkers, the South Gippsland Walking and Adventure Club and the Gisborne Bushwalking Club. On offer to participants are 20 unique walks ranging from easy to medium to hard.

On the weekend of 22-25 August twenty-two BTAC volunteers worked with Parks Victoria Rangers to tidy up some seven kilometres of walking track that will be used for several of the popular walks offered at Federation Walk. Volunteers arrived on Thursday to settle into the Lodge Accommodation kindly provided free of charge by Parks Victoria. 

After a briefing on Friday morning the volunteers worked in two teams to clear the track from Darby Saddle towards Tongue Point. After a well-earned rest overnight, on Saturday morning the volunteers divided into three teams: one to finish the Darby Track work while the other two teams worked on the Three Bays Walking Track. The weather although windy was great for working and objectives were met by mid-afternoon. 

As the forecast suggested rain on Sunday morning, it was decided not to attempt any work on Sunday, so all tools were packed up. It is not easy to forecast the weather for the very exposed Wilsons Promontory. Sunday morning was brilliant with the rain not setting in till late afternoon. Some of the volunteers opted to go for a walk while others recced a walk for a future club walk. 

Volunteers at Lookout Rocks (by Jeff McDonell)

Volunteers came from far (Sydney) and near (Traralgon). The volunteers included: three couples, three from the Essendon bushwalking club, a family group of three, three first timers and three from the Bayside bushwalking club who were also members of the Fed Walks 2024 organising committee. The volunteers contributed over 300 on the job hours and spent some 200 hours travelling to and from Wilsons Prom. 

Dan Rogers, Ranger – Team Leader for Wilsons Prom National Park, took great care of the volunteers providing them with the comfortable Lodge accommodation at Tidal River and ensuring their welfare and safety over the weekend. 

Thanks for the efforts, contributions and camaraderie of all who attended and to Dan and his team for all the arrangements and wonderful support. 

Joe van Beek

BTAC Project Manager

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Life message was catalyst for Bayside Bushwalking Club as members celebrate 40 years

By Bayside Bushwalking Club

At our celebration event, founding member Ken McInnes told the story of BBC origins as a result of a cartoon character named Norm from the Life Be In It campaign in the 1980s who was imagined to reinforce the concept of getting fitness back into the lives of Australians who were steadily gaining weight and becoming sedentary. 

As part of the television campaign funding was made available for groups to start a club, discover their feet again and go walking. Hence BBC was formed. They were looking at engaging people across the suburbs rather than traditionally going into the city for clubs like the Melbourne Bushwalking Club and to try a suburban model to see if it would be a popular idea.

BBC has been thriving ever since. A fabulous event was held at the Sandringham Bowling Club celebrating Bayside Bushwalking Club’s 40th anniversary. There was a great turnout of founding members, life members, past presidents, members and current club members who all enjoyed catching up with walking buddies and mentors from past years.

The founding members looked surprisingly young as Anne Lonsdale pointed out that she was the ‘average age’ (29) when they founded the BBC in 1984 and she is still the ‘average age’ (69) of club members today.

Gerard Herten shared his experience with the BBC which he said had been a great social leveller. BBC membership has enabled him to mix with people from all walks of life many he would never have met without the common interest of bushwalking.  

Some of the founding members are still with us today and have been great mentors to our club. Including Mike Grant, Roy Graham, Gerard Herten. They are all Life members.

Other Life members included 96-year-old Margaret Hattersley who was honoured for her mentoring of many leaders and her extensive knowledge of plant life including indigenous plants. 

A Life member who was sadly missed on the day was Jo Peake who was away in Jamieson and unable to attend. There were many stories about her well supported walks, her understanding of the history of the areas she walked, her generosity with her time and dedication to the club.

We heard from seven former Presidents about their time in the chair some talking about the capping of members numbers at 550 at the peak right through to COVID times when we could not even walk as a club.  We had Ken McInnes, Mike Grant, Helen Forbes, Roy Graham, Cornelia Gratzer, Doug Crompton and Jeff McDonell.

The friendships formed and the delight of people enjoying each other’s company was evident on the day. We have a lot to be proud of as a suburban club. 

Enjoy your walking.