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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

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BTAC Volunteers Enhance Safety on Paling Spur Walking Track

Paling Spur Walking Track runs about 3.5 km up from the Cobungra River, climbing roughly 500 metres and leading up to Youngs Spur, providing access to Young Hut and the AAWT near Basalt Temple on the Bogong High Plains.

A group of 11 volunteers and Parks Victoria Ranger Al met at Mt Hotham on Friday afternoon and drove 5 km to the turnoff to Brandy Creek Firetrail. We then travelled in 4WD vehicles 4 km down to the Cobungra River. After that, we made a couple of trips to walk our gear from the vehicles a kilometre along to our camping spot on the flats at the base of Paling Spur. This required repeated crossings of the Cobungra River to ferry our gear across. Despite the water being more than knee-deep and quite cold, only two volunteers fell in, and we were pleased to make it to our idyllic campsite. A fire was started to warm us in the cold night as we cooked dinner and discussed plans for the next two days of work.

Saturday started very cold. We formed into a chainsaw pair and two teams, each with two brushcutters. The chainsaw and first brushcutter team walked up the 500-metre climb to start work at the very overgrown top of the spur. The second brushcutter team cleared 100 metres of dense track beside the river, which we had passed on the way to the campsite, before climbing halfway up the spur to continue clearing. By mid-afternoon, the three teams met up, with enough time for some extra clearing before finishing for the day and leaving the tools by the track.

Al had carried in a barbecue plate and a large esky of supplies for Saturday dinner. The fire was started, and the food prepared — special mention to Andrew for his excellent cooking and to Ros for salad preparation. It was a very enjoyable meal; thanks, Al!

One brushcutter wore out during the day, but Al and Patrick managed to make it serviceable again for Sunday. On Sunday, in the milder weather, we all climbed the steep section of the hill again and, in two teams, cut our way down, completing the work by midday. After lunch, we ferried our gear back over the river and along the track to the 4WD vehicles, then transferred to cars at the top of Brandy Creek Firetrail.

It was very satisfying to clear such an overgrown track and improve a number of bends to minimise the likelihood of walkers wandering off course. Everyone worked hard, including using the two larger Parks brushcutters. Among all the others, first-time volunteer Jack was especially notable. We enjoyed fine weather, a great sense of camaraderie, and unity of purpose.

About 4 km of track was cleared and improved over the 500 m climb. We contributed 143 volunteer hours and 206 hours of travel, administration, and reconnaissance. The great contribution by Ranger Al in leadership, planning, and support was appreciated by all the volunteers.

John Green, BTAC Event Leader

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Fedwalks Grampians (Gariwerd) 2025 – thats a wrap

What an incredible weekend it was at FedWalks 2025, held in the spectacular Grampians (Gariwerd) and co-hosted by the Grampians Bushwalking Club and Boroondara Bushwalking Club. With fewer than 20 members, the Grampians Bushwalking Club achieved something truly special, helping to deliver a seamless and memorable event for walkers from across the state.

There were 222 bushwalking participants representing 34 bushwalking clubs, from Sunraysia in the far northwest to Ben Cruachan in East Gippsland - a wonderful snapshot of Victoria’s vibrant bushwalking community.

You can now view all of the walks on the BWV website.

Next year, Federation Walks 2026 will be based in Portland and hosted by The Friends of the Great South West Walk.

Gisborne Bushwalking Club shares their FedWalks adventures:

 

Kim Kurdel - Fedwalks participant: A group of five from Gisborne Bushwalking Club stayed near Halls Gap, avoiding windy tent conditions. On the first day, I completed an easy-medium walk from Zumpsteins to Mackenzie Falls, including a climb to the top of the falls, enjoying views and wildflowers. After returning, the group enjoyed afternoon tea and later dinner followed by a talk by Parks Victoria about Gariwerd’s bushfire recovery program. On the second day, choosing a short, easy walk to Venus Baths, there I saw rock formations, wallabies, and made new friends. The trip ended with coffee in a scenic garden, after which I returned home with a booklet of Grampians walks and fond memories of a rewarding weekend.

Gail Davies led two walks, Pohlners loop and a section of the Grampians Peaks Trail at the southern end of the Grampians Range:

Day 1: Pohlners loop walk covered everything the Grampians has to offer, Views, rock hopping, sand paths and Banksia forests.  Thanks to a little booklet "Flowers of the Grampians"; the 15 walkers were able to identify numerous flowers including the bitter pea, running postman, wax-lipped orchid, donkey orchid, as well as heath, correas, grevilleas and many more.  During the walk we witnessed rock climbers and abseilers and everyone took a photo of Bird Rock.  A few of the group scrambled along the 250m track to the top of Mt Stapleton before lunch, whilst the remainder of the group only walked part of the track to view the wind cave.

Day 2: Griffin Fireline to Cassidy Gap.  After much consternation over the number of vehicles needed to do a 10km car shuffle, the group of 9 headed off on the walk.  At the start of the track everyone had to clean their boots by walking through brushes and a disinfectant spray. The first 2km was along a sandy track, with flowering Xanthorrhoea trees and orchids.  Then the climb started. Several sections of the track had stone steps and once on the top of the ridge there was more rock hopping.  There were extensive views to the Victoria Valley in the west and the vast plains to the east.  We had all fingers and toes crossed for the rain to stay away, but unfortunately, the heavens opened about 1.5km from the end of the walk.  Every cloud has a silver lining, and within 10 minutes of the rain starting we arrived at the beautifully appointed Djardi-Djawara campsite, where we took refuge in the community shelter until the rain eased.  The rain stopped just as quickly as it started, the sun came out again, and we all dried off in the 900m walk back to the cars.

Annie Gray and Mark Summers lead 2 walks over the weekend, Gardens of the Grampians (GotG) and Beehive and Gar Falls:

Day 1: GotG is a 10 Km loop, 531mt elevation that takes in Venus Baths, Splitters Falls, Grand Canyon and the iconic lookout, The Pinnacle. After a very overcast and wet morning, by the time that we started the walk the sky had cleared and we had perfect walking weather throughout the day. Having had recent rains, there was plenty of water in both Venus Baths and the falls. The wild flowers, orchids and natives were in bloom and the views all around, were breathtaking. The tracks were in good condition and the walks on the rock faces were well marked and the view from The Pinnacle was spectacular. From here, it was just 3+
Kms back to Halls Gap and afternoon tea.

Day 2:  After a 20 minute drive and a car shuffle, we just wanted to get started. A short walk in from the trail head and it’s straight up Beehive Falls then along Briggs Bluff Walk before joining the Grampians Peaks Trail (GPT). Soon we joined the Gar Waterfalls Walk. This track takes in no less than 4 unique and beautiful waterfalls. With only 600mts left, we made it back to the cars just as a heavy shower struck, that would have drenched us all. Then it was back to Halls Gap and our farewells, paperwork for the leaders and, the long drive home.

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Alpine Walks Demand Alpine Preparation – Any Time of the Year

The recent deaths of two people on Mt Bogong in Victoria, another on Cradle Mountain, plus the recent death on Mt Field in Tasmania are tragic reminders that even short walks in Australia’s alpine regions can become life-threatening when weather conditions change suddenly, at any time of the year, not just winter.

Dr Jeff McDonell, President, Bushwalking Victoria said "Preparation saves lives. Don’t let schedules or timelines put you at risk. Check the weather daily in the lead-up to your walk and cancel if storms are forecast. Carry proper alpine gear, including a fully waterproof jacket, and ensure you have emergency communications such as a Personal Locator Beacon or satellite device. The mountains will wait - safety won’t."

Mt Bogong - Victoria’s highest peak at 1,986 metres - is a strenuous and potentially hazardous climb because of its exposed nature. Even experienced bushwalkers and back-country skiers can become disoriented when visibility drops. It’s easy to miss a turn when snow and ice are blowing in your face. Proper clothing and equipment are essential and hypothermia can develop within minutes in freezing conditions.

Victoria’s 60 bushwalking clubs promote safety, leadership, and good preparation for people who enjoy walking in the outdoors. Club activities are guided by experienced bushwalkers, and there’s no substitute for experience when conditions turn tough.

Dr McDonell said "There’s a growing trend to organise bushwalks through social media groups, but this approach often lacks essential skills in navigation and first aid. Bushwalking Victoria encourages people to join clubs, where they can gain the experience and knowledge needed to enjoy the bush safely and respond effectively to the unexpected."

Here's some actionable steps you can take to stay safe in alpine environments:

Plan Thoroughly

  • Research your route: Study maps, track notes, and official Parks Victoria advice for the area you are visiting. Know the terrain, distances, escape routes, and alternative options.
  • Choose walks to suit your group’s experience and fitness. Alpine terrain is more demanding and mistakes are harder to recover from.
  • Leave trip details with a trusted person, including your intended route and return time.

Learn to Navigate

There are a range of options to improve your navigation skills.

Check the Weather - Again and Again

  • Monitor forecasts daily in the lead-up to your walk. Don’t just check once; conditions can change quickly.
  • On the day, confirm the latest Bureau of Meteorology alpine forecast before starting out.
  • If storms, heavy snow, or severe weather warnings are issued, change your plans. The mountain will still be there tomorrow or next week.

Pack for All Conditions

Alpine preparation means being ready for the worst weather, not just the best. At a minimum, every walker should carry:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and over-pants. This is non-negotiable. A quality waterproof jacket, made from Gore-Tex or a similar material, will keep you dry for hours in heavy rain and protect you from dangerous windchill. Cheaper “fashion” jackets, even if they claim to be waterproof, will often leak or fail under sustained wet conditions. Invest in the best jacket you can afford.
  • Warm clothing layers (fleece or wool, not cotton).
  • Gloves, hat, and thermal underlayers.
  • Map, compass, and the skills to use them.
  • Emergency shelter (even on day walks) to protect you from extreme elements.  This may be a tent, emergency bivvy bag or a survival shelter.
  • Sufficient food and water, with extra in case of delays.
  • First aid kit
  • Reliable communication - ideally a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger.

Tip: Buy gear from reputable outdoor equipment suppliers with experienced staff. They can guide you to equipment that has been tested in real conditions, rather than gear designed mainly for fashion.

Adjust as You Go

  • Watch conditions closely during your walk. If the weather worsens, shorten your trip or turn back.
  • Keep your group together. Alpine terrain makes it easy to become separated in fog, snow, or wind.
  • Allow extra time. Alpine walking is slower and more tiring than lowland tracks.

Learn from Experience

The best way to gain alpine skills is by walking with experienced bushwalkers. Bushwalking Clubs and organised groups provide opportunities to learn navigation, equipment use, and decision-making in a safe, supportive environment.

Final Advice

Bushwalking is safe and enjoyable when you’re prepared. In alpine areas, preparation means planning ahead, packing the right gear, and being willing to turn back when conditions change. Above all, never compromise on your waterproof jacket, your safety depends on it.

Alpine walks demand alpine preparation, every time.

For more detailed guidance, see the Bushwalking Manual

 

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The Most Dangerous Part of Your Hike Might Be the Road

Sometimes when a track ends or a loop doesn’t quite join up, it’s tempting to walk a short stretch along a road to connect trails or return to your car. But what might seem like a harmless shortcut can actually be one of the riskiest parts of your walk.

Recently, Victoria Police raised concerns after reports of hiking groups using the notorious Black Spur in Narbethong, an 80 km/h road with no shoulder, sharp corners, and limited visibility, to link between tracks. Roads like this are not designed for pedestrians, and walking along them puts both walkers and drivers at serious risk of injury or death.

Why walking on high speed roads is dangerous

High speed roads, particularly in the country, often:

  • Have no verge or shoulder, leaving no safe space to step aside for passing traffic

  • Include blind corners, crests, and dips that limit driver visibility

  • Carry vehicles travelling at high speeds, giving little time to react

  • Lack footpaths, warning signs, or lighting

  • Are not places drivers expect to come across a group of walkers

Even small groups of walkers can take up more space than expected, forcing drivers to brake or swerve suddenly. In these conditions, a moment’s misjudgment can be catastrophic.

Plan to avoid road sections

Good trip planning helps you avoid risky connections:

  • Check maps carefully, including topographic and satellite views, to see if a walking track truly connects or if there’s a gap via road.

  • Plan alternatives, such as starting your walk at a different trailhead, using two vehicles for a car shuffle, or turning back at a scenic point.

  • Use established shared trails or roadside paths where available (e.g., rail trails or multi-use tracks).

  • Ask locals or Parks Victoria rangers if a route includes a road section before you go.

If you must walk along a road

Sometimes there’s no other option. If you absolutely must walk a short section along a road:

  • Walk single file, facing oncoming traffic (unless it’s unsafe to do so on a blind bend).

  • Wear bright or reflective clothing, even during the day.

  • Use headlamps or torches if visibility is poor.

  • Stay alert, no headphones, no distractions.

  • Move off the road surface entirely whenever a vehicle approaches.

  • Avoid blindly following the person ahead of you, your safety is your own responsibility.

For group leaders

If you’re leading a walk, it’s your responsibility to assess and manage road risks:

  • Review the route in advance and avoid any high-speed or blind-corner road sections.

  • Include safe access points in your walk notes and risk assessment.

  • Brief participants on what to do if the group encounters a road unexpectedly.

Bottom line: Roads are built for cars, not walkers. Even a short roadside stretch can expose your group to serious danger. A few minutes of planning can keep everyone safe, and keep bushwalking about enjoying the bush, not the bitumen.

The Black Spur, Narbethong.  Stunning, but deadly.

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Don’t Just Follow the Leader: Stay Safe on a Group Walk

What do you really know about the group you’re walking with? Joining a group walk is a fantastic way to explore new trails, meet like-minded people, and enjoy nature safely. But even in good company, your safety is ultimately your responsibility. Being prepared means you can relax, enjoy the scenery, and have fun knowing you’re ready for whatever the trail throws at you. Just never assume someone else will take care of everything.

How to Look After Yourself on a Group Walk

✅ Do Your Homework

  • Ask the leader: Where exactly are we going? How long will it take? What’s the walk grade? What's the group size?

  • Are the group leaders experienced in leading a walks like this one?  Does the group have insurance?

  • Make sure the walk and the group matches your fitness and experience level.

  • Check the weather forecast before you leave.  Be prepared to cancel or change your plans based on weather.

✅ Bring Your Own Map

  • Carry a paper map or download an offline map to your phone. If you get separated, it’s up to you to know where you are, don’t rely solely on the leader.  Google Maps - Offline and Maps.Me are good options, but you must download the maps to your phone before you leave home.

  • Do not rely on Alltrails as your single source of information, as it is known to be incorrect at times (Article: The Issue with Alltrails - Trail Hiking Australia.)

✅ Pack Your Essentials

  • At least 2 litres of water (more on hot days)

  • Snacks or lunch to keep your energy up

  • A small first aid kit (snake-bite bandage, emergency bivvy bag, bandaids, pain relief, any personal medication)

  • Warm or waterproof clothing, even if the day looks fine.

  • Torch

  • Wear hiking boots, or very sturdy trail runners

✅ Be Prepared for Emergencies

  • Check if anyone in the group has a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). If not, see if you can borrow or hire one.

  • Let a friend or family member know your plan, expected return time, contact details for who you are going with and let them know what to do if you do not return on time.  Victoria Police have a good trip intention form you can complete and share with friends/family.

  • Know what to do if you get lost.  Stop.  Stay calm and assess your surroundings.  Try to backtrack to determine if you are actually lost.  Read more about what to do if you get lost in the Bushwalking Manual.

✅ Stay Aware, Don’t Just Follow

  • Pay attention to where you are on the track. Notice junctions, landmarks, and how far you’ve gone.  Take photos of trail information signs.
  • If something doesn’t feel right, or makes you feel uncomfortable, speak up.  Maybe like the group is pushing on in bad weather, running out of daylight, or heading in the wrong direction. Safety is the responsibility of everyone, not just the leader.

The Bottom Line

Walking with a group can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience nature. By taking a few simple steps - bringing your own gear, knowing the route, and asking the right questions - you’re not only looking after yourself, you’re helping the whole group enjoy the walk safely.

When everyone takes responsibility, adventures become safer, more enjoyable, and memorable for all the right reasons. So get out there, explore, and make the most of every trail with confidence.

Find a Bushwalking Club near you.

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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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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.