One of the biggest changes to my bushwalking and hiking experience came when I finally learnt how to navigate with a map and compass. It wasn't just about the theory of how to take bearings or even understanding how to read a topographic map, it was when the lights started going on and everything started making sense. It was a bit like when you learn to drive a car. At first, everything is … [Read more...]
Search Results for: blue mountains
Blue Mountains Geographical Encyclopaedia: Book Review
“What's in a name? That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet.”... or so Juliet said to Romeo in the 1500’s. Jump to today and think about places around you, your town, your favourite lookout, river, ridge or mountain. Just like Shakespeare’s classic tale, there’s a story behind every one. Tales of heroism, mystery, intrigue or politics. Money, betrayal, adventure or pioneers … [Read more...]
Blue Mountains – Open for business… Still!
Last October was an incredibly difficult one for many people living in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales. I’ve had non-hiker friends say to me, ‘Oh, you must be so sad about your beloved Blue Mountains and the fires?’ I kind of didn’t know what to say. I don’t live there, I haven’t raised a family there, had the comfort of home and community there, been gripped by the gut wrenching fear of … [Read more...]
What to do if you get lost hiking?
Or “How to get unlost” when bushwalking In 1987 pioneering Aussie bushwalker and businessman Paddy Pallin wrote a book called, ‘Never Truly Lost’. It’s a classic from the traditional style of bushwalking (what many now refer to as 'hiking'… oh, the controversy!) and as a statement, touches on the soul of what it means for many of us to be in the bush. For the well equipped and experienced … [Read more...]
Introduction to Navigation
Do you want to learn to navigate with a map and compass? Do you want to read a map with confidence? If you’ve ever dreamed of being able to find your own way in the bush, break through the invisible walls beside tracks and step off the well-formed trail, to become an explorer and discover your own adventure, read on. Over two jam-packed days you’ll learn some of the skills essential for off … [Read more...]