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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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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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A Letter to Bushwalking Volunteers

Dear Bushwalking Volunteers,

Ahead of National Volunteer Week this May, we want to proudly celebrate the heart and soul of bushwalking in Victoria — YOU, our extraordinary volunteers.

Your time, your energy and your belief in the value of bushwalking keep our trails open, our communities connected, our bushwalkers safe and our wild places protected.

THANK YOU for every step, every meeting, every moment you’ve given. You inspire us all.

To our Bushwalking Club Volunteers:

Our clubs are a community service and you are the glue that holds them together. You give your time, skills and energy to lead walks, plan programs, manage memberships, maintain websites, handle finances, train new leaders, keep records, manage committees, coordinate events and so much more. Whether you're guiding people through the bush or quietly working behind the scenes, your contribution creates welcoming, active and resilient bushwalking communities. You make it possible for thousands of Victorians to connect with nature, build friendships and enjoy the benefits of bushwalking safely and sustainably.

Thanks to your selfless contributions, club membership remains incredibly affordable — sometimes just the cost of a few coffees. Yet for that small amount, new bushwalkers discover a vibrant community, unforgettable adventures and the kind of support that only passionate volunteers can offer.

To our Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation (BTAC) Volunteers:

Thank you for giving up your weekends, for the heavy lifting and the dirty work, often in remote and rugged places and in all weather conditions. You clear fallen trees, rebuild eroded tracks, repair bridges, install signage and advocate for the protection and maintenance of our precious walking environments. Your work is physically demanding and often unseen, but it is absolutely vital. Thanks to your dedication, countless walkers can safely access and enjoy the beautiful tracks across Victoria.

To our Bush Search and Rescue Victoria (BSAR) Volunteers:

Your expertise, skills and commitment provide immense comfort to every bushwalker. Knowing that if the worst happens — if someone becomes lost or injured — there is a highly trained, professional and compassionate team ready to respond brings great reassurance to our entire community. You volunteer your time at a moment’s notice, often in challenging conditions and difficult terrain, to search tirelessly and bring people home safely. Your courage, teamwork and selflessness embody the very best of what it means to serve and support others in the outdoors.

To our BWV Board and Conveners:

Your time and commitment go well beyond attending a monthly meeting. You provide strategic direction, advocate for bushwalking at the state and national levels, build partnerships, guide projects and help tackle the complex issues that affect our trails, parks, and clubs. You bring expertise, energy and leadership to every decision, often behind the scenes and always with the best interests of the bushwalking community at heart. Your contributions shape the future of bushwalking in Victoria and strengthen the voice of walkers everywhere.

To our Leadership Training Committee volunteers:

Thank you for your dedication to developing the next generation of walk leaders. Through your planning, mentoring and training, you are passing on vital skills and ensuring that our clubs continue to offer safe, enjoyable and inspiring bushwalking experiences. Your work builds confidence, leadership and community spirit among bushwalkers, and your impact will be felt on every track, with every new leader who steps forward.

To our Project, Event, and Support volunteers:

Thank you for stepping up whenever needed — whether it’s contributing to projects, assisting during Try Bushwalking Month, sharing your skills in communications, or supporting behind the scenes with admin and training. Your steady, often unseen efforts are essential to the success of our programs, the strength of our community, and our ability to share the joy of bushwalking with more people.

A special thank you to the FedWalks Committee — your dedication, time, and countless hours of planning and coordination make this flagship event possible. Your work exemplifies the commitment and passion that drive our community forward.

At Bushwalking Victoria, we know that volunteering is more than giving time — it’s about connection, purpose and shared passion. In a world that’s moving faster than ever, the spirit of volunteering reminds us of what truly matters: community, care and protecting what we love.

Through your efforts, you are not only enriching lives — you’re preserving the places we treasure for generations to come. And together, we're showing what a volunteer-driven movement can achieve.

To all our volunteers: thank you.

For showing up. For sharing your skills. For believing in the power of nature to bring people together. You are the true stewards of Victoria’s bushwalking future.

With deep gratitude,

 

Richelle Olsen
Executive Officer
Bushwalking Victoria

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering and it highlights the important role of volunteers in our community and invites people not currently volunteering to give it a go.

 

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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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A Glimpse of the Great South West Walk

A Glimpse of the Great South West Walk

This film features the insights and experiences of three walkers who traveled through this rugged and beautiful landscape. This unforgettable journey winds around three National Parks, the pristine Glenelg River and the vast Southern Ocean.

The 2026 Fedwalks event is hosted by the Friends of the Great South West Walk, based out of Portland, Victoria.  Open to bushwalking club members and Bushwalking Victoria individual members, we are looking forward to seeing sections of the walk in ways only the locals can show you.  Keep the 10-11th of October, 2026 free in your calendar.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the making of this production, including the Friends of the Great South West Walk, the Portland Field Naturalists Club, Powerhouse Productions, Glenelg Shire Council and the many volunteers who assisted in so many ways.

Get more details on the Great South West Walk, or walk with the Friends of the Great South West Walk.

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If you could give your “beginner hiker self” one piece of advice – what would it be?

Sometimes the best advice doesn’t come from manuals or gear lists. It comes from people who’ve learned the hard way, one step at a time. Recently, the Facebook page Hike Like a Woman asked its community a simple question: “If you could give your "beginner hiker self" one piece of advice, what would it be?”

The responses poured in. Practical. Honest. Encouraging. Occasionally hard-earned. Together, they form a brilliant beginner’s guide, straight from the trail.

Here are the key lessons that came through loud and clear.

1. Hike Your Own Hike

  • Again and again, walkers reminded beginners that it’s not a race.
  • Go at your own pace. Take breaks. Stop comparing your distance, speed or fitness to others. Some days you’ll fly, some days you’ll crawl. Both count.
  • Put one foot in front of the other. Slow down. Look around. Enjoy the journey, not just the destination.

2. Shoes and Socks Matter (A Lot)

If there was one unanimous theme, this was it.

  • Wear shoes with good grip
  • Buy footwear that fits you, often half to one size bigger
  • Don’t wear brand-new boots on a big walk
  • Wool socks are worth the investment
  • Some swear by boots, others by trail runners or sandals in warm weather.
  • There’s no single “right” answer, just what works for your feet.

3. Poles Are Not Cheating

  • Hiking poles came up over and over, especially for downhill sections.
  • They help with balance, reduce strain on knees and hips, and can make long days far more comfortable. Many wished they’d started using them earlier.
  • A common tip from the community was to learn how to use poles properly, because technique really matters.

4. Carry Less, But Carry Smart

  • “You don’t need as much as you think you do” was a recurring refrain.
  • Lighten your pack where you can, but don’t skip the essentials. Carry the basics, including first aid, and think about how far you’ll have to carry every item you bring.
  • As one walker put it, know what to carry, when to carry it, and how many kilometres you’ll carry it for.

5. Eat, Drink, and Rest Before You Think You Need To

  • Hydration and fuel matter more than beginners often realise.
  • Drink before you feel thirsty.
  • If you’re suddenly exhausted, stop and eat. You’re probably hungry.
  • If you think you’ve brought enough water, bring a bit more.
  • Small snacks, regular breaks, and enough sleep before a hike all add up to a safer, happier day out.

6. Prepare, But Don’t Wait Forever

  • Preparation matters. Planning matters. But so does actually getting out the door.
  • Half the battle is starting. Don’t wait until everything feels perfect. You’re stronger than you think, and experience is the best teacher.
  • Plan properly, then go.

7. Safety Comes Before Summits

  • Several comments reminded beginners that the mountain will always be there.
  • If conditions aren’t safe, turn back. If the weather changes, adjust your plans. There’s no shame in choosing another day.
  • Being prepared also means knowing when not to continue.

8. Solo or With Others, Both Are Valid

  • Some encouraged hiking with a buddy. Others spoke passionately about solo walking.
  • The consensus was clear. Both are fine, as long as you plan appropriately, know your limits, and take responsibility for your safety.
  • There’s no single “right” way to experience the trail.

9. Strength, Stretching and Recovery Matter

  • Bushwalking isn’t just about walking.
  • Stretch regularly. Strengthen feet, ankles and joints. Build strength off the track as well as on it. Your body will thank you, especially on the descents.

10. Be Present

Finally, beyond gear and technique, many people shared something deeper.

  • Stop. Look around. Put yourself in the way of beauty. Be open to discomfort, healing, joy, and the quiet moments that happen between footsteps.
  • For many, bushwalking becomes more than exercise. It becomes a way to reconnect.

One Last Piece of Advice

  • Just go.
  • Don’t wait. Don’t overthink it. Hike more often. Enjoy every step. It’s almost always worth it.

With thanks to the community at Hike Like a Woman for sparking the conversation and generously sharing their hard-earned wisdom.

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Victorian Bushfires – Show your support by staying away + supporting responsibly

After the recent bushfires across Victoria, it’s important to be clear: now is NOT the time to go sightseeing or travelling through fire-affected areas.

Communities impacted by fire are dealing with shock, trauma and enormous uncertainty. Roads, tracks and infrastructure are damaged, there's 1000's of dangerous trees, access is restricted, and recovery will take time. Driving into affected towns, parks or remote areas adds pressure where it’s least needed, and can put you and others at risk.

If you’re feeling the urge to “go and help,” please pause. Don’t force donations or supplies onto communities. Many communities don't have storage space for bulk donations.  The best way to support recovery is respond to specific requests, or ask what’s needed, how people want support delivered, or to donate through channels listed below, which ensure help reaches the right places at the right time.

For walkers, campers, 4WDers and outdoor users considering rural travel:

  • Download the Vic Emergency App on your smartphone (be sure to set up your warning areas)
  • Avoid all fire-affected and recently burned areas (use the Vic Emergency app map view, use the filter to show "Impact Areas")

  • Plan trips carefully to steer well clear of closed parks, tracks and roads (links below).

  • Parts of the Alpine and the Otway National Parks are still burning and will continue to burn for some time. Carefully consider your plans - the tracks will still be there next year for your adventure.

  • Remember weather forecasts aren’t just about temperature - wind strength and wind direction matter.  Use the wind filter on the BOM app, or download the Windy app.

  • If you’re wondering “Do I or don’t I?”  The answer is don’t.

This is only the start of the fire season. The safest and most responsible choice right now may be to stay home - clean your gear, patch that tent, review your maps, and plan future trips for when communities and landscapes are ready to welcome visitors again.

Save your “empty esky”, your "epic hiking" or "amazing 4x4" trips for later. Right now, the bush - and the people who live in it - need space.

Parks and Road Closures:

Supporting Communities

Supporting volunteer CFA and SES Emergency Services

Other Resources:

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In the Media: The popularisation of wilderness walking has led to a rise in rescues

Bushwalking Australia and Bushwalking Victoria President Jeff McDonell has recently featured across ABC’s national media platforms, radio, television, and online, discussing a growing concern for the bushwalking community: the rise in rescues as more Australians head into the wilderness. As bushwalking surges in popularity, Jeff highlights the importance of preparation, self-reliance, and respect for the risks that come with exploring remote landscapes.

"If the weather turns bad, turn back.  The mountain will still be there next week" - Jeff McDonell

ABC Radio National 3 minute interview - 3 November 2025

ABC Online News article - 3 November 2025