Bushwalking Equipment
FOOTWEAR
This is the most important part of your equipment. Whether shoes or boots are your personal choice, footwear needs to be comfortable, closed and have effective tread.
CLOTHING
Should be loose and comfortable and preferably constructed from a strong fabric. Long sleeves and long trousers are recommended for sun protection and walking through thick scrub. A wide brimmed hat is essential for sun protection.
WET WEATHER GEAR
Many types of wet weather gear are available, from more expensive waterproof jackets and pants to inexpensive light plastic raincoats and ponchos and even umbrellas. Whatever you choose, it is wise to take along some wet weather gear to all walks.
BACKPACK
A backpack is required to carry your gear as it leaves your hands free.
WHAT YOU MUST CARRY
Ø Enough water for the expected conditions, length of walk and personnel preferences. It is recommended that a minimum of 1-2 litres is required for a bush walk.
Ø Sufficient food for your needs.
Ø An adequate supply of required medication. Advise the walks leader if your medical condition is likely to affect your walking.
Ø A first aid kit. The kit should include adhesive strips or Elastoplast for blisters, a snake bandage, triangular bandage, safety pins and antiseptic lotion. Paracetamol for personal use can also be useful.
Walkers' Guidelines
Before the walk
- The walker must contact the leader 1-2 days before the walk to confirm and check the walk details, weather conditions, start time etc. The leader has the right to decide an upper limit regarding the number of participants for a walk, taking into account factors such as terrain, safety and organisational difficulties.
- Ensure that you are fit enough for the degree of difficulty of the walk. If in doubt discuss with the leader prior to the walk. The leader has the right to refuse participation to any persons they consider may present a risk to themselves or other participants or who do not have the necessary skills for the activity.
- Walks by temporary members will be grade 3 or below, unless approved by the walk leader after they have assessed the capability of the temporary member.
- Arrive at the starting point at least 10 minutes before the starting time provided by the Leader.
- Carry sufficient water for the conditions of the walk. Generally, a minimum of 1-2 litres is adequate, but more is required in hotter conditions.
- Ensure you are suitably equipped with a first aid kit and completed Member Emergency Contact and Medical Information Form, sunscreen, hat, food, rain gear, whistle, torch and appropriate clothing and footwear. A map and compass or tracking app may also enhance your enjoyment of the walk.
- Ensure you complete the Sign on Sheet after reading the Risk Waiver and noting any risk warnings.
- Although it is not compulsory, all members are encouraged to obtain and keep up to date, training in CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and/or first aid.
- Remember to bring a sense of humour and adventure. Our leaders are all volunteers so please remember to be patient and kind.
- A walker must accept that a walk can be cancelled or varied for many reasons and that the leader’s decision is final.
- If you have a medical condition that may affect your capability during the walk, ensure that you inform the walk leader and if medication is required ensure you carry enough for the duration of the walk.
- Pets or children under 18 are not allowed to participate in walks.
During the walk
- Follow the leader’s instructions and remember your leader has your welfare at heart. Be courteous, co-operative and helpful to other walkers in the group. Follow the Bushwalker NSW Inc. Bushwalker’s Code of Conduct
- Generally, you should not leave the walk early, unless pre-arranged, but if it is necessary, you must advise the leader and sign off on the activity Sign on Sheet. If the leader deems it necessary, you must accept their decision to send someone with you to accompany you out.
- Do not allow yourself to become separated from the group. If experiencing any difficulty such as pace, blisters, shortage of water, advise the leader immediately. Participants should maintain a line of sight with people in front and behind them.
- Car-pooling is recommended. Contribute to car costs if you are a passenger in another member’s vehicle.
- It is your responsibility to allow sufficient distance between yourself and the walker in front so that you are not injured by branches flicking back.
- Do not leave the track, if on a track walk, or fall behind the person appointed ‘tail’ for any reason without advising the ‘tail’.
- During the walk you should always have visibility of the walks leader and if in front you should stop at junctions until given directions from the leader on correct path.
- Keep Australia beautiful. Take all rubbish home.
After the walk
- Ensure the leader is aware you have made it to the end.
- Remember to thank the leader.
- If you had an accident or incident during the walk ensure that the walk leader is informed (preferably during the walk), and that paperwork for the accident/Incident including witness statements are completed.
Helpful Links
There are a number of organizations and websites available to help Club members plan and conduct activities effectively and safely. Enjoy reading the various sites for ideas on packing, food, places to explore, maps, trail notes and photographs.
You can find some of these resources here: