Len has been bushwalking since his father took on his first overnight hike as a child. His skills developed with his father, then in the scout movement, before starting a professional career in outdoor education and guiding. He designed and delivered the Outdoor Recreation courses at Blue Mountains College, Western Sydney Institute of TAFE NSW. He has completed many walks from short jaunts through to month long expeditions. Len has been teaching people about hiking for over forty years.
course overview
Len will take you through everything you will need to bring in the weeks leading up to your first three day walk. We will concentrate on clothing, footwear and equipment.
When you arrive we will go through everything we will be taking and how to pack your pack.
We will go through the walk and the route and start developing your skills in navigation.
Once we are walking Len will cover how to walk with a pack, and discuss strides, walking up hills and downhills, using trekking poles, and navigating obstacles.
At the campsite we will go through campsite selection, tent pitching and getting your bed ready.
Len will take you through meal preparation, planning including purchasing your own, making your own dehydrated meals, and cooking. You will learn how to use a variety of stoves safely, and how to prepare your meals.
On the second day Len will continue your education in navigation, teaching you more about reading a map and locating yourself on one. We may pack up camp and walk to a second campsite, or just go out for day exploring and learning. We will cover navigational aids such as apps and gps units
Len will teach you about the dangers in the Australian bush and how to avoid them.
Len will help you understand the weather reports and talk about the importance of weather forecasting during your trips. We will cover walking and camping in the rain.
You will also go through some scenarios that we won’t encounter on your first walk, so that you are prepared for your future adventures.
We will cover basic first aid and risk management. PBL use, first aid kits.
On the third day we will pack up camp, walk out and return to our vehicles and return home. Back at the vehicles we will debrief the whole experience, and Len will outline what you need to study and learn next on your journey to becoming proficient in bushwalking.
inclusions
specialised camping and hiking equipment
meals
tuition
4wd transport from agreed meeting spot
equipment lists and guides
exclusions
appropriate clothing and footwear
wet weather clothing
required
appropriate footwear
thermal and warm clothing
rain and sun protection
medical details, waivers and assumption of risk forms
travel insurance and ambulance cover
by booking you are agreeing to our terms and conditions which can be read here
miscellaneous
tents, sleeping bags, sleeping mats and bedding can be provided
stoves and cooking / eating utensils can be providied
maps and navigation equipment will be provided
packs can be provided
clothing can be provided
bring up to three people so you can invite your friends and partners
note: where appropriate it is best you use your own equipment that is fitted to you - though we recommend you only purchase the bare minimum and save your purchases till after you complete the walk
walks - locations
The walk will be determined based on your experience level and interest. Getting closer to the date we might even move or even postpone the walk if there was to be extreme weather event. We have so many possible walks so close to Sydney, to the west, to the south and to the north. The final walk destination will be made in collaboration with you.
investment
AUD$6600 per person - currently discounted to $3300 per person