Bushwalking Victoria invited us to attend the BWV Walk Leader Training, and what an incredible and rewarding experience it turned out to be! It was a fantastic opportunity to learn, grow, and gain valuable knowledge that will help us lead hikes more safely and confidently in the future.
The training covered a wide range of essential skills. One of the highlights was learning how to properly use a compass alongside a map for navigation. Even though modern navigation apps are widely available, the training reinforced how important it is to understand traditional navigation methods, especially in remote areas where technology can fail or signals can drop. It was both fascinating and empowering to develop these practical skills.
We also learned in detail about what it truly takes to lead a hike successfully. From planning routes, assessing risks, managing group dynamics, and ensuring participant safety, to preparing for different environmental and weather conditions – the session gave us a much deeper understanding of the responsibilities that come with leading outdoor adventures.
Another extremely valuable part of the training focused on emergency preparedness. We were guided through how to respond if an injury or accident occurs during a hike, including how to stay calm, assess the situation, provide immediate assistance, and coordinate help when required. These are critical skills that can make a real difference in ensuring everyone’s safety on the trail.
It was a long and intensive day filled with learning, discussions, and hands-on activities, but every moment of it was absolutely worth it. We walked away with new knowledge, improved confidence, and a stronger sense of responsibility as hike leaders.
We sincerely thank Bushwalking Victoria for providing us with this amazing opportunity and for their continued support in helping build safer and more skilled outdoor communities. We are truly grateful and excited to apply what we learned in future hikes and adventures.
Author: The Hiking Tribe
Note from Bushwalking Victoria:
Bushwalking Victoria organises Leader Training days several times a year for affiliated clubs and individual members. Dates are usually announced in the Bushwalking Victoria Newsletter. Subscribe Here.
In addition, Bushwalking Victoria has produced the online Bushwalking Victoria Leader Resources. While these resources are intended to support leadership within bushwalking clubs, the practical advice, reference material and learning activities can also act as a prompt to individuals wishing to arrange and conduct group walks in the Australian bush.
There is no substitute for actually leading a walk. Most organised bushwalking clubs will arrange for a new leader to work with an experienced mentor. Use the resources on this site to guide your thinking about how to prepare and what to do as a leader of a group on a bushwalk.