Category: News and Information

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Safety Smartphone Apps for Hikers

Smartphones are powerful tools for bushwalkers, helping you stay safe, navigate trails, and stay informed about conditions. While no app replaces good planning, a map, or basic bushwalking skills, having the right apps on your phone can make a big difference in your hiking experience. Here’s our guide to must-have apps for Victorian bushwalkers.

Tell 000 your Location: The Emergency + app

Purpose: Helps you communicate your exact location to emergency services.

How it works: Emergency+ uses your phone’s GPS to provide precise latitude and longitude coordinates, including integration with What3Words, so emergency services can locate you quickly, even in remote areas with poor signal.

When to use: In an emergency, tapping the 000 and other emergency numbers will use your phone to call that service.  You can then use the app’s built-in GPS (including What3Words) to give precise Lat/Long location info to emergency services.

Important:

  • If there is no mobile coverage on any network, you may not be able to reach the Emergency Call Service via some mobile phones.
  • Always keep your phone charged and consider a portable power bank for longer trips.

Emergency + is available for Apple and Android

Check before, and as you go: The VicEmergency app

Purpose: Helps to keep you informed about emergencies and hazards in your area.

How it works: VicEmergency provides real-time alerts for bushfires, floods, and other hazards. You can check conditions before your walk and receive notifications while out on the trail, subject to network availability.

When to use:

  • Before your walk: Check for bushfires, floods, or trail closures in your area.

  • During your walk: Get real-time warnings about hazards nearby (subject to network availability)

VicEmergency App is available for Apple and Android

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BTAC in the Dandenong Ranges – New Project with Parks Victoria Olinda

On Saturday 6th September 2025 twelve volunteers met at Butterfield Reserve to clear a section of the Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track. A section of the track had some major wind storm damage with lots of large tree trunks down and crown material blocking it. The Dandenong Ranges Tourist Track is a 16.5km historic route that goes from Sassafras to Emerald following Sassafras Creek, Woori Yallock Creek and Menzies Cks through some amazing tall forest.

After a briefing at Butterfield Reserve we formed two teams. One to work from Moxhams Rd and the other from Rankins Road with the plan that we would meet each other somewhere between. The teams were able to move through at a good pace as Parks Vic staff had taped sections where the track was indistinct or needed realignment. Luckily we had enough chainsaw operators to have 5 chainsaws running.

After the teams made contact in the early afternoon, we had time to work on the sections from Rankins Road and David Hill Road back to Butterfield Reserve. On Sunday one team completed these sections while the other worked on the track from Butterfield towards Emerald on the Menzies Creek section. Due to the wind speed picking up and knowing a storm front was coming through we wisely finished around lunchtime.

A special thanks to Mike and family who generously hosted the volunteers who stayed overnight at his property nearby. It was an enjoyable evening with a delicious BBQ dinner provided by Parks Vic.

It was great to work with the team at Parks Olinda, especially Shannon Walsh who made sure track marking prep work was done and who supported us so well with the chainsaw work.

The stats:  Approximately 5.5 kms of track cleared, 132 volunteer work hours, 30 hours of volunteer travel time.

Patrick Platt

BTAC Activity Leader

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Photos – Phoebe Nguyen and Mike Grimes

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Guided Bushwalks within 90 minutes from Melbourne this September

Guided Walks Within 90 Minutes of Melbourne this September

You don’t need to travel far to find incredible bushwalking adventures, in fact, some of the best trails are right on Melbourne’s doorstep. This September, Try Bushwalking Month is packed with guided walks less than 90 minutes from the city, led by friendly local clubs.

From tranquil wetlands and historic gorges to coastal cliffs and forested ranges, there’s something here for every level of walker - whether you’re trying bushwalking for the first time or looking for a new weekend challenge.

Here’s what’s on within 90 minutes of Melbourne this September:

Easy Nature Escapes

  • Bald Hill Reserve – Gisborne Bushwalking Club
    Wed Sep 3, near Kyneton
    A relaxed walk for beginners with views of the Macedon Ranges.
    Grade 2, 6–10km
  • Research–Maroondah Aqueduct Trail – Melbourne Walking Club
    Wed Sep 3, Eltham to Wattle Glen
    Flat, easy trail with public transport access.
    Grade 2, 11–15km
  • Corhanwarrabul Wetlands, Jells Park – Waverley Bushwalking Club
    Thu Sep 4, Wheelers Hill
    Easy-paced walk with wetlands birdlife, including pelicans.
    Grade 2, 6–10km
  • Wattle Walk – Blackburn Creeklands to Blackburn Lake – Koonung Bushwalking Club
    Sat Sep 13, Blackburn
    Celebrate spring with blooming wattles.
    Grade 3, 6–10km
  • Macleod Gresswell Park – The Ramblers Walking Club
    Wed Sep 17, Melbourne’s north-east
    Explore grassy woodland reserves without leaving the suburbs.
    Grade 1, 6–10km, PT accessible

Coastal Adventures

  • London Bridge & Bay of Isles – Bayside Bushwalking Club
    Sat Sep 6, Portsea–Sorrento
    Coastal tracks, sea caves and a beach picnic.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
  • Merricks to Flinders Coastal Hike – Melbourne Young Hikers
    Sat Sep 6, Mornington Peninsula
    A full-day beach hike along a quiet stretch of coast.
    Grade 3–4, 16km+
  • Devilbend Reservoir Circuit – Catholic Walking Club of Victoria
    Sun Sep 7, Mornington Peninsula
    Scenic circuit around the Peninsula’s largest inland waterbody.
    Grade 3, 11–15km

Ranges, Gorges & Forests

  • K Rd Cliffs & Werribee Park – Werribee Bushwalking & Outdoor Club
    Sun Sep 7, Werribee
    Explore dramatic cliffs, the river, and the historic mansion gardens.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
  • Ted Errey Nature Trail, Anakie Gorge – Ballarat Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 7, Brisbane Ranges
    Walk through historic Anakie Gorge with rewarding views.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
  • Sugarloaf Reservoir Circuit – Boroondara Bushwalking Club
    Sat Sep 13, near Yarra Glen
    A 16km loop with wildlife and sweeping views.
    Grade 3, 16km+
  • Churchill Park Circuit – Boroondara Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 14, Endeavour Hills
    Walk through Lysterfield Park, with kangaroos and a trig-point lookout.
    Grade 3, 6–10km
  • The Mallee in Melton – CAEX Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 14, Melton
    Explore a rare patch of Mallee scrub in the suburbs.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
  • Burchell Track North – Melbourne Bushwalkers
    Sun Sep 21, Brisbane Ranges NP
    A big day out on the rugged Burchell Track.
    Grade 3, 16km+, PT accessible
  • Four Brothers Rocks, Bunyip State Park – Boroondara Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 21, near Gembrook
    Forest tracks, fern gullies, and massive granite boulders.
    Grade 3, 11–15km

Why Walk with a Club?

Joining a club-led walk means you can simply turn up and enjoy the trail, no need to worry about maps or logistics. It’s a chance to explore close to home, meet like-minded people, and discover places you never knew were so close to the city.

👉 Choose your walk, register, and join us this September for Try Bushwalking Month

Register for a Walk in September
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Guided Bushwalks in Gippsland this September

Stroll by the sea, spot koalas and gliders, explore deep gorges full of indigenous history or take on a multi-day adventure at Wilsons Prom, there’s a walk for you in Gippsland.  This September, Try Bushwalking Month invites you to step out with local clubs and explore the region’s best trails, guided by experienced leaders and in the company of friendly walkers.

Here’s what’s happening in Gippsland this September:

Forests & Cultural Landscapes

  • Mullungdung State Forest – Hermit’s Cave, Koala & Greater Glider Spotting – Ben Cruachan Walking Club
    Sat 6th September, Mullungdung State Forest (near Woodside)
    A wildlife-rich forest walk by day, then spotlighting endangered greater gliders after dark.
    Grade 3, 11–15km

  • Den of Nargun – Mitchell River NP – Ben Cruachan Walking Club
    Sat 13th Sept, near Glenaladale
    Visit the culturally significant Den of Nargun, Woolshed Creek and The Bluff Lookout.
    Grade 2, <5km

  • Won Wron State Forest – Bataluk Cultural Trail – Strzelecki Bushwalking Club
    Sun 2th Sept, Won Wron
    Explore Yellow Stringybark forest and cultural sites around White Woman’s Waterhole.
    Grade 3, 11–15km

Register for a Walk in September

Gorges & Ranges

  • Wirilda No.1 Trail – Tyers Gorge to Pipeline Bridge – Strzelecki Bushwalking Club
    Sat 13th Sept, Wirilda Environment Park, Yallourn North
    A hidden gem of Gippsland with river gorges, fern gullies and views.
    Grade 3, 11–15km

Coast & Prom Country

  • Inverloch Surf Beach, Caves & Eagles Nest – Bass Coast Strollers
    Mon 15th Sept, Inverloch
    Stroll along the surf beach, clamber to caves, and search for dinosaur footprints (tide permitting).
    Grade 2–3, 6–10km

  • Wilsons Promontory Overnight Adventure – Bayside Bushwalking Club
    Fri 19th Sept – Sun Sep 21, Wilsons Prom NP
    A 3-day, 2-night pack-carry taking in Roaring Meg, the Lighthouse and Oberon Bay.
    Grade 4, 16km+

  • The Gurdies Nature Conservation Reserve – Bass Coast Strollers
    Mon 22nd Sept, near Grantville
    A springtime loop walk with plenty of wildflowers.
    Grade 1, 6–10km

  • George Bass Coastal Walk – Bass Coast Strollers
    Mon 29th Sept, Kilcunda
    Panoramic clifftop trail linking Punchbowl Rd to Kilcunda, with farmland and beach views.
    Grade 2–3, 6–10km

Why Join?

These Gippsland walks are the perfect chance to:
✔ Discover new landscapes close to home
✔ Enjoy safe, guided walks with local clubs
✔ Meet like-minded nature lovers
✔ Build confidence for bigger adventures

Choose your walk, register, and join us for Try Bushwalking Month in Gippsland. Your next adventure starts here!

Register for a Walk in September
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Guided Bushwalks in Western Victoria this September

Explore Western Victoria this September

Western Victoria is bursting with natural beauty, from the lush rainforests of the Otways, to the rugged peaks of Gariwerd (Grampians), the volcanic wonders of Tower Hill, and the windswept coastal cliffs around Portland. This September, Try Bushwalking Month is your chance to lace up your boots, join a local club, and discover trails you may never have walked before.

Whether you’re new to bushwalking or a seasoned explorer, there’s a walk to suit everyone. Friendly club leaders will guide the way, sharing their knowledge of nature, local history, and hidden gems. It’s also the perfect way to meet new people, get active, and enjoy the fresh air.

Here’s what’s on in Western Victoria this September:

Otways & Central West

  • Otways Rainforest Walking – Camperdown Bushwalking Club
    Tue Sep 2, Ferguson to Beech Forest
    Explore rainforest, ferns, and the Jewel of the Otways, Melba Gully.
    Grade 1, <5km
  • Bald Hill Reserve – Gisborne Bushwalking Club
    Wed Sep 3, near Kyneton
    A gentle beginner-friendly walk in beautiful forest.
    Grade 2, 6–10km
  • The Mallee in Melton – CAEX Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 14, Melton
    Discover a surprising patch of Mallee scrub in an impressive gorge.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
  • Burchell Track North – Melbourne Bushwalkers
    Sun Sep 21, Brisbane Ranges NP
    A full-day hike on the rugged Burchell Track.
    Grade 3, 16km+
  • Helge Track, Glenluce – Gisborne Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 28, Glenluce
    Rolling hills, pristine forests and pure air.
    Grade 3, 11–15km
Register for a Walk in September
Ballarat
Sturgeon
Gisborne
Portland FGSWW
Gisborne bwc
melbourne bushwalkers 2

Grampians (Gariwerd)

  • Gar Falls & The Wall – Wimmera Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 7, Northern Grampians
    Rugged cliffs, waterfalls and mountain views.
    Grade 3, 6–10km
  • Beehive & Gar Falls – Grampians Bushwalking Club
    Sat Sep 13, Dadswells Bridge
    Waterfalls, heathland and dramatic cliff scenery.
    Grade 3, 6–10km
  • Majestic Mt Sturgeon – Camperdown Bushwalking Club
    Sun Sep 21, Dunkeld
    A rewarding climb to sweeping summit views.
    Grade 4, 11–15km

South West Coast & Portland

  • A Walk in the Bush (Info Session) – Friends of the Great South West Walk
    Fri Sep 19, Portland Library
    Build confidence with tips and resources for safe walking.
    Grade 1, info session
  • Tower Hill Meet Up & Ramble – Warrnambool Bushwalkers
    Sat Sep 20, Tower Hill Wildlife Reserve
    A relaxed nature walk with morning tea.
    Grade 2, 6–10km
  • Cape Nelson Stroll into Nature – Friends of the Great South West Walk
    Sat Sep 20, Portland
    Stunning sea cliffs and coastal views.
    Grade 2, 6–10km

Ballarat & Surrounds

  • Woowookarung Grass Tree Gander – Ballarat Bushwalking Club
    Tue Sep 23, Woowookarung Regional Park
    Easy-paced walk among masses of grass trees.
    Grade 2, 6–10km
Register for a Walk in September

Why Join In?

These walks are led by welcoming and knowledgeable bushwalking clubs – no need to worry about maps, navigation, or safety. You’ll discover new landscapes, make friends, and maybe even find a new favourite trail.

All you need to do is choose a walk, register, and show up with sturdy shoes, water, and a sense of adventure.

 

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Club celebrates 60 years of bushwalking at Ben Cruachan mountain top

Saturday, June 28, was a proud and emotional day for the Ben Cruachan Walking Club as more than 60 people gathered to celebrate the 60th birthday on the very mountain top the club was formed.

The weather was perfect for the unveiling of a newly commissioned toposcope (directional marker) which had been installed by club members on the mountain top to replace the deteriorating previous one.

The plaque on the pedestal shows this was made possible due to a bequest from light life member Norm Williams. Magnificent views to the south of Lake Glenmaggie and to the north of the Avon Wilderness and Alpine National Park were seen through clear skies.

Many life members and past leaders of the club gave their thoughts on the significant history over the past 60 years. These included two of the longest serving club members Helene Dennis, Val Morrison, and John Kellas and president Peter Jennings.

Members met, assembled and registered at Newry, the base of the mountain and car-pooled to part of the way before doing the steep walk to the top, participating in the formalities, including thanks to the Braiakaulung people, giving glowing endorsements of the toposcope and day.

Cake and ribbons were cut for the unveiling under the club banner. Members caught up with each other and reminisced over fantastic walks, camps and a shared love of bush walking.

The club has held more than 60 walks in the past year and welcomes new members and guests on walks.

Visit the Ben Cruachan Walking Club website to get involved.

(This news item is credited to Lakes Post)

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FedWalks Grampians (Gariwerd) 2025 – Walks Program Now Available

 

Bushwalking Victoria’s flagship annual event, FedWalks, is back this October, and the 2025 program is set to showcase the spectacular peaks, trails and rugged beauty of the Grampians (Gariwerd).  This event is hosted by the Grampians and Boroondara Bushwalking Clubs.

The Grampians is a magical place that is enjoyed by many bushwalkers. Although large parts of the Grampians have been devastated by bushfires, there is sufficient undamaged bush remaining to conduct a weekend of walking. The people of Halls Gap will most certainly welcome our patronage.

Location: Halls Gap, Grampians (Gariwerd)
Event Dates: Saturday 11 & Sunday 12 October 2025 (check-in from 3pm on Friday 10 October)
Event Hub: Halls Gap Centenary Hall, 115 Grampians Rd, next to the Information Centre

This year’s Fedwalks is open to all members of Bushwalking Victoria-affiliated clubs and Individual Members of Bushwalking Victoria. With 23 walks to choose from – ranging from gentle rambles to challenging climbs – there's something to suit every kind of walker. But places will be limited, so we encourage you to start planning your weekend now.

View the Walks Program

What you Need to Know:

  • Walk and Dinner Bookings open 10 August 2025 – take the time to review the walks program now so you’re ready to choose your favourites.
  • Costs:
    • $40 for the full weekend (2 days of walking)
    • $20 for one day only
    • Optional Saturday night dinner: $45 at the Event Hub
  • Many areas of the Grampians National Park are still closed due to bushfire recovery, which means some walks overlap or follow the same route in reverse.  View the Walk Overview Map.
  • Expect climbs and rock scrambling - it’s the Grampians, after all! Pay close attention to the grades, distances and estimated durations to find walks suited to your comfort and experience level.
  • Some walks take a slower pace on steeper sections and may have a lower grading than you’d expect from the terrain.

Accommodation:

You will need to organise your own accommodation in Halls Gap. From camping and motels to boutique luxury, there’s something for all budgets.  Start your search with the Visitor Information Centre (https://www.visitgrampians.com.au).

Fedwalks is all about community, challenge, and connection through shared adventure. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this fantastic weekend in one of Victoria’s most iconic walking destinations.

Visit fedwalks.org.au for full event details.

Walk Overview Map:

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BTAC Event at Bunyip State Park and Kurth Kiln Regional Park

About twelve volunteers commenced arriving at Mortimers Picnic Ground in Bunyip State Park from 3.00pm on Friday 11 July. Unfortunately, rain put a bit of a dampener on the evening, however a good campfire provided a focal point for socialising.

On Saturday 12 July the Supervising Vic Parks Ranger, Andy Musgrove, outlined the proposed work for the weekend and commence inductions for fifteen volunteers. The volunteers included two first time volunteers plus another volunteer who had recently gained her chainsaw ticket. One of the aims of this BTAC event was to train volunteers how to use track clearing hand tools correctly.

On Saturday we travelled for 20 minutes to the Kurth Kiln Picnic Ground where the objective was to clear the Tomahawk Creek Track and the Thornton Walk – a total of about 3km. The clearing of the tracks was completed by 3:30pm.

Ranger Andy proved to be a top BBQ Master and served the volunteers a very nutritious evening meal featuring lamb chops. This was a hit with the volunteers and there were encores for a repeat performance.

On Sunday, the fifteen volunteers were split into two groups. One group travelled to the Buttongrass Walk whereby 230 metres of gravel was transported and spread along the walk to facilitate all weather access. This group did such an excellent job that they fully depleted the gravel stockpile.

The second group travelled to the western section of the Tree Fern Walk. After the track was cleared stepping stones were hauled down the slope. Holes were excavated and the stones were placed into position. Near the end of the day the stepping stones installation was assessed by two hikers who commented that the work was perfect. Both groups returned to base at 3:30 pm.

There is still further work required to complete the Tree Fern steps and the paving at Buttongrass Walk but it may prove to be a good back up job if other planned BTAC events are cancelled due to fire concerns or other issues.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the event, everyone got on well together, the two new volunteers received excellent training on the tools and more of our senior volunteers experienced work that was other than track clearing. Also, Phoebe Nguyen was given one on one training by John Green on how to use the chainsaw safely and proficiently.

It was remiss of me not to thank the valuable assistance of Patrick Platt who accompanied me on the reconnoiter of the possible work sites.

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Oscars Hut 2 Hut Trek/Run Challenge – New Events

The iconic Oscars Hut 2 Hut Trek/Run Challenge, raising funds for Autism, now has some great new formats for 20-22 February 2026:

Relay Teams Event: Leg 1: 38km, Leg 2: 35km, Leg 3: 27km – 24hrs to finish, limited to 20 teams.

Multi-day Half Miler (solo): Day 1: 23kms, Day 2: 50kms, Day 3: 10kms. Lalas event: 23km

Plus the usual events: 100km (over 1, 2 or 3 days), 50km and10km.

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Visiting the Snow at Donna Buang

Looking to experience snow near Melbourne this winter? At 1,245m, Mount Donna Buang in Yarra Ranges National Park, Wurundjeri Country, typically receives snowfall from June to August.

It’s no surprise that the snow-covered landscape of Mount Donna Buang – two hours’ drive from Melbourne – is an extremely popular destination on weekends or when there is fresh snow.

Here’s what you need to know to have a safe and enjoyable experience at Mount Donna Buang this winter.

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