HEYSEN WALKS 2021 Walks Programme - FREE - Heysen Trail
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FREE
HEYSEN
WALKS
2021 Walks Programme
SOUTH COA ST WE E K 2020
R E ALI TY OF SOLO H I K I NG A LONG - DI STANC E TR AIL
H I LTABA RE SE RV E : WARRE N BONY THON WALK
WALK TH E YORK E I N TH E Y E AR OF COVID
FR I E ND S OF THE HEYSE N TR AIL | S OUTH AUSTR ALIA | ISSUE 1 5 9 | AUTUM N 2021
Gary Pearce Solicitor
Keep Safe
Specialising in wills and
estates including:
· estate planning
· powers of attorney
· advance care directives
· estate litigation
· land transactions
61 Carrington Street Adelaide
South Australia 5000
T 08 8237 0572 F 08 8237 0508
E g@garypearce.com.au
ALPANA STATION
EST. 1878
David and Sally Henery of Alpana Alpana Station offers:
TRANSPORT Station Blinman offer a friendly,
flexible and accredited transport
• Quality self-contained guesthouses:
• Alpana shearers quarters (up to
SERVICE AND service to the best end of the Heysen
Trail: Wilpena, Blinman, Parachilna
• 14 guests) & Nungawurtina Hut
• bush retreat (up to 6 guests)
ACCOMMODATION
Gorge Trailhead, for individual walkers • Powered sites with ensuite bathroom
or groups. Transfers to the Mawson • facilities for caravans/campers
Trail and beyond also available. • Scenic bush camping areas
A STA
ANEST. 1878 T
AL P
IO
N
JUST 5KM FROM BLINMAN BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL
Contact David and Sally Henery
T: 08 8648 4626
E: alpanastation42@gmail.com
IN THE FLINDERS RANGES PO Box 11, Blinman SA 5730 WWW.ALPANASTATION.COM
About the Friends AUTUMN 2021 • 3
COUNCIL MEMBERS 2020 PATRON END-TO END WALK
His Excellency the COORDINATORS
PRESIDENT
Melanie Sjoberg Honourable Hieu Van Le AC E2E10 Judy McAdam
E2E11 John Babister
VICE PRESIDENT HONORARY MEMBERS E2E12 Adam Matthews
Greg Boundy Sadie Leupold E2E13 Vicki Barrett
SECRETARY Thelma Anderson OAM E2E14 Mark Fletcher
Julian Monfries Kath Palyga E2E15 Mark Curtis
Richard Schmitz E2E-2 Julian Monfries
TREASURER Arthur Smith
PUBLISHED BY THE Stephen Salib-Brown Colin Edwards OAM TRAIL DEVELOPMENT
FRIENDS OF THE HEYSEN Hugh Greenhill SECTION LEADERS
Robert Alcock
TRAIL AND OTHER Colin Edwards OAM Barry Finn S1 Albert Schmidke
WALKING TRAILS Dom Henschke Dean Killmier S2A Roger Dunn,
John Wilson John Wilson Richard Bourne
W heysentrail.asn.au David Beaton S2B John Newland
Margaret Fletcher
facebook.com/HeysenTrail John Babister Jack Marcelis S3&4 Hermann Schmidt
twitter.com/HeysenTrail Paul Bond Julian Monfries (Wandergruppe
Frances Gasson Bushwalkers)
youtube.com/HeysenTrail SUB-COMMITTEE Simon Cameron S5 John Babister
pinterest.com/HeysenTrail CHAIRS David Rattray OAM S6 Richard Webb
@heysentrailfriends TRAIL DEVELOPMENT Hermann Schmidt S7 Graham Loveday
Paul Bond Robert Alcock S8 Ian Harding
CITY OFFICE Liz O’Shea (WEA Ramblers)
WALKING John Potter S9 Jerry & Michelle Foster
Suite 203, Epworth Building Adam Matthews
33 Pirie St, Adelaide SA 5000 Kevin Liddiard S10 Wayne Turner,
OFFICE Arrienne Wynen Peter Deacon
Open Mon – Fri Dom Henschke Peter Wynen S11&12 Dom Henschke,
10:30am – 2:30pm Colin Rozman, Rick Price
MARKETING & HONORARY MEMBERS
T (08) 8212 6299 S13 Hugh Greenhill
MEMBERSHIP (DECEASED)
E heysentrail@heysentrail.asn.au (Mid North Branch)
Helen Morgante
Terry Lavender OAM S14-18 Arrangements
MID NORTH BRANCH HONORARY Jim Crinion currently under review
T 0428 347 315 MEMBERSHIP Neville Southgate
Julian Monfries Doug Leane OFFICE VOLUNTEERS
E burra.heysentrail@gmail.com
Fred Brooks MONDAYS
RECONCILIATION
MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Jamie Shephard Graham Loveday
COMMITTEE
SINGLE $25/year Terry Gasson Neil Nosworthy
Anne Kirk
Glen Dow Elizabeth Rogers
FAMILY $40/year WARREN BONYTHON Neil Page
SCHOOLS/ORGANISATIONS HEYSEN TRAIL TRAILWALKER
FOUNDATION TUESDAYS
$60/year EDITOR
Valerie Boundy
Membership is valid for CHAIR Josh West Judy McAdam
12 months from the date Neville Haar Chris Porter
EDITORIAL
of payment. David Rattray OAM
SECRETARY SUB-COMMITTEE
Neil Nosworthy Barbara Sedgley
Robert Alcock
Philip Bell WEDNESDAYS
MID NORTH BRANCH
Robyn Coburn Elayne Sanders
PRESIDENT Colin Edwards OAM Vicki Cahalan
Garry Fieldhouse Tammy Main Gilbert Downs
VICE-PRESIDENT Judy McAdam Jack Marcelis
Kate Greenhill Liz Rogers Rosemary Hayward
Julie Stapleton THURSDAYS
SECRETARY Greg Martin
Sally Fieldhouse Erica Gordon
WEBSITE EDITOR Julian Monfries
PUBLICITY OFFICERS Judy Szekeres
Garry Fieldhouse Jeremy Carter
David Andrewartha
COUNCIL MEETING DATES MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Trish Bowie
Wednesday 17 March Judy McAdam FRIDAYS
Wednesday 22 April Cathy Bowditch
OFFICE MANAGER Erika Guess
Wednesday 19 May
Dom Henschke Julia McLachlan
Peter Clark
BOOKKEEPERS
Cover: Olga Volodicheva
captured this iconic shot of John Wilson
Maria Newland
walkers, participating in the
Tina Behnke
South Coast Walk, heading over Margaret Fletcher
the hill toward Inman Valley.
Trailwalker welcomes photo
submissions suitable for the
magazine cover. Please email We acknowledge and respect the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands we traverse along the
your high-resolution images to Heysen Trail. We acknowledge the deep feelings of attachment and relationship of Aboriginal peoples to
trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au Country and pay respects to the cultural authority of Aboriginal peoples within the Country we walk.
Contents Trailwalker
Articles, reports and other
submissions by members and
interested parties are welcome
and should be emailed to
the Trailwalker Editor at
22
trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au
Deadline for the next issue
(Winter 2021):
Ocean views 30 APRIL 2021
from SA’s Walk The Trailwalker magazine is
the Yorke Track
available by subscription or
online at heysentrail.asn.au/
trailwalker and is published
and distributed quarterly:
05 13 22 • Autumn (March)
• Winter (June)
PRESIDENT’S CAPE JERVIS WALK THE
• Spring (September)
REPORT ACKNOW- YORKE IN THE
• Summer (December)
M EL AN IE SJO B E R G
LEDGMENT YEAR OF COVID
The Trailwalker magazine
SI MON CAMERON
Re-energising for 2021 – RU T H RIC E
has a typical distribution
help us grow and develop. The Friends Reconciliation Ruth tackles South of 1500, and an estimated
Committee acknowledges Australia's Walk the
the Traditional Custodians readership of approximately
Yorke trail around the
06 of our land. Yorke Peninsula. twice that number.
FRIENDS NEWS Contributors are urged
14 26 to contact the Editor to
Keep up-to-date with what’s discuss their article prior to
happening on the Trail. ASK A HIKER HILTABA
submission. The submission
RESERVE: deadline is usually the final
What is your favourite
WARREN
07 international walking trail? Friday of the month prior to
BONYTHON the month of publication.
TRAILTHINKER WALK & MORE
QUIZ 15 Views expressed in
ME L ANIE S JOB E RG contributed articles are
VOLUNTEER DANIE L JARDINE those of the authors, and
08 PROFILE Melanie and Daniel not necessarily those of the
explore Hiltaba Reserve, Friends of the Heysen Trail.
END-TO-END TAI LI M
more than 650km north-
SEASON WALK Tai shares her involvement west of Adelaide.
as a Friends volunteer.
PROGRAMME ADVERTISING RATES
2021 (EX. GST)
29
16 1/8 PAGE $55 per issue
A GREAT OCEAN
10 SOUTH COAST
WALK
1/4 PAGE $80 per issue
1/2 PAGE $135 per issue
FRIENDS WEEK 2020
JU L IE S IGNORIE L LO FULL PAGE $200 per issue
SEASON WALK ADAM MATTHEWS FLYER (supplied for insertion)
After a year of cautious
PROGRAMME Adam reports on the planning and limited $240 per issue
2021 organised group walk along movement, Julie takes a
the Trail's south coast. journey on Victoria's Great A commitment for 12 months
Ocean Walk. advertising (four issues)
12 would attract 10% saving.
18
NPWSSA'S PARK
REALITY OF SOLO
30 Advertising specifications and
OF THE MONTH article submission guidelines
HIKING A LONG- FAVOURITE are available upon request or
Join the Friends and DISTANCE TRAIL SHORT WALK by visiting
National Parks and heysentrail.asn.au/trailwalker
Wildlife Service South J OSH WEST JON H OL B OOK
Australia as we celebrate A loop walk in
Josh explains that long-
our amazing parks. Mt Crawford Forest.
distance hiking changes you.
President’s Report AUTUMN 2021 • 5
Re-energising for
2021 – help us
grow and develop
MELANIE SJOBERG
I
'm feeling energised and In the early days, the Trail had very In its humble beginnings, the Friends
excited about walking and little infrastructure beyond marker received support with office space
working on the Trail this year. posts and plates. Our Maintenance in Pitt Street generously provided by
As we launch into 2021, we Section Leaders were, and still are, the Uniting Communities. The past five
notch up 35 years of dedicated primary carers for signage, stiles and years required a shift to a more self-
volunteer work keeping the Heysen ensuring the Trail is cleared. sufficient operating model out of Pirie
Trail physically alive; promoting its Street. Despite COVID restrictions,
By 1995 ten old huts had been restored
existence with signage, the Trailwalker in 2020, our office volunteers sorted
for walker use thanks to volunteer
magazine, website and brochures; and relocated everything into a larger,
efforts, Adelaide Central Mission
and encouraging people to walk its brighter space next door. Beyond
and funding from SA Department of
1,200km. The Friends continues to administration, our office team is
Health. Shelters at Eagle Waterhole
value and respect all our volunteers' central to promoting the Trail; being
(Deep Creek, National Parks) and
commitment and energy no matter frontline for phone or email inquiries
Scotts (Mt Crawford, Forestry SA) were
how big or small the contribution. about walking, distances, water,
opened in 2002.
transport, accommodation
The Heysen Trail probably wouldn't
Since that time, the Friends of Heysen and services.
exist except for the persistence and
Trail has vigorously advocated for and
dedication of people like Warren In 2021 the Friends Council and
contributed to the construction of
Bonython, Friends of Heysen Committees will benefit from
additional campsites and facilities.
volunteers and staff in the old Trails renewal – it is the lifeblood of an
Unit within Recreation and Sport. During the past ten years, our organisation to inject new blood, fresh
volunteers have built and installed ideas and energy. Please make this
In 1986, a gathering of bushwalkers
major improvements including: your year to give back to the Trail and
led to the formation of the Friends
› 25 Water tanks the Friends.
of Heysen Trail with the aim of
supporting a handful of staff › 8 Pit toilets
employed in the, then, Trails Unit to › 18 Platforms
identify and mark the proposed trail.
› 1 Cabin with bunks ADVANCE NOTICE
Thanks to enthusiasm, extraordinary
› 6 Refurbished huts
time commitment and solid work Time for a review of FoHT
from FoHT volunteers, the Heysen The End-to-End (E2E) Walking Constitution: to amend out
Trail was completed in 1992 – 4 years Programme is another significant of date clauses and ensure it
earlier than estimated. achievement of the Friends over the is fit for purpose for many
past twenty years with End-to-End 10 more years.
According to trail negotiator and
developer Terry Lavender "… that due to finish in 2021. A southbound
A small group will develop
should be the Friends of Heysen Trail End-to-End -2 will also commence in
recommendations to bring to
memorial." (Last Post, Bookend Books 2021. We can now proudly say that
Council and a Special General
2001 p54). In his book Terry also our walking groups cover the whole
Meeting of members during
describes building the remarkable 1200km every year. Among other
2021. If you are interested in
sand ladder over the dunes at things, this is a helpful audit
contributing please contact
Waitpinga: "(being)… completed in for the Trail maintenance teams as
two days the cost-saving to the the office.
our volunteer Walk Leaders report
Department must have been huge." trail issues.
Friends News AUTUMN 2021 • 6
End-to-End
Awards
Congratulations to the following
walkers who received End-to-
End awards for completing
the Trail up until the end of
November 2020.
John Armeni Alexander
Rebecca Gilbert
Register
Bazeley Damien Liebelt
Marguerite Joshua Vidale
Carson Kerri Woodcock for 2021
Photo: Mark Scicluna
Eagle Waterhole
hike-in hut The Friends 2021 walking
closed through season starts soon
May-June
The popular hut at the Eagle Waterhole Are you looking to start which point we'll have reached the
Cudlee Creek area.
will be closed throughout May-July in walking the Heysen
Year 3 transitions from walking on
2021. The hike-in only shelter in Deep Trail from end-to-end Saturdays into weekends away. This
Creek Conservation Park is closed for
construction. All walkers following in 2021? change begins at Kapunda on the last
the Heysen's route through this area, Every year, a group of walkers two trips of the walking season. These
please make alternate plans for commence a six-year journey, which weekend trips continue throughout
accommodation and water during includes approximately 63 individual years 4 and 5 until we arrive in Quorn.
this period. walk days, and covers the length of the Due to the distances required to
Heysen Trail. We have a new adventure complete each section during the final
starting soon! See the End-to-End Walk year, two week-long excursions will see
Friends COVID Programme on page 8 for more details. us to the finish line. Don't worry, you'll
Safe 2021 2021 will see the End-to-End 15 group be fit by then.
commence their Trail journey from An optional introductory walk through
SA Health COVID Safety requires the Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula Cleland Conservation Park will be
Friends of the Heysen Trail to: and finish at Parachilna Gorge in the offered to those who register for End-
Flinders Ranges in 2027. Join leaders to-End 15's 'Walk 1'. Come along and
› keep a register of members at events;
Mark, Audrey, Maria, Andrea, Leanne, get to know your fellow walkers, get
› comply with any attendance caps in Philip and Mike; we look forward to some fitness and test your legs on a
place; seeing you. walk similar in length and difficulty to
› ensure trained COVID Marshalls are There is a slight deviation from past Cape Jervis – Cobbler Hill.
a part of walks and activities. End-to-Enders; Year 1, 2 and part 3 you
This means members/guests must will now be walking on SATURDAYS.
register online in advance for ALL So, you won't have to rush home after Check out www.heysentrail.asn.au/
FoHT walks, activities and events. Our a long day's walk to prepare for the walks for End-to-End 15 walk dates
office volunteers will be able to assist if working week (that is for those of us and to registration. Book early,
you have any difficulties. You also need not lucky enough to have retired). numbers are limited.
to use QR Code check-in or sign-in The first two years include about seven If you have any questions, drop Mark
when visiting and attending meetings walks per season (May to October) at an email via HeysenEE15@iinet.net.au
in the office. Let's keep everyone safe
through 2021.
Friends News AUTUMN 2021 • 7
Trailthinker
Notice of Time & Date: Quiz
6.30pm, Friday, 19 March 2021
Friends Location:
1. The founder of Adelaide’s
“Vili’s”, Vili Milisits, was
AGM 2021 Woodville Bowls Club,
25 Oval Avenue
born in which central-
European country?
Woodville South 5011
Join us for the 34th 2. In which decade did Sir
Annual General To meet COVID safe requirements, Hans Heysen die?
members must register in advance
Meeting of the Friends on the Friends walk/event page: 3. The Great South West
of the Heysen Trail. www.heysentrail.asn.au/walks Walk is located in which
Australian state?
4. Which Australian
walking trail culminates
at Lake St. Clair?
BLINMAN, SA
5. Which South Australian
FLINDERS
Join us in 2021 on a trek
& BEYOND CAMEL TREKS
Walking treks fully catered. Swags
coastal town hosts the
Tunarama Festival?
6. The city of Adelaide is
and transfers included. No roads, no named after a queen
that completes the Heysen vehicles, no mobile reception; detach consort to which monarch?
Trail’s remote section from hectic everyday life and enjoy
‘Beyond Heysen’. an unforgettable experience that will 7. Which Heysen Trail town
create memories to last a life time. is sometimes called ‘Little
Explore hidden treasures of the
Flinders Ranges with camels carrying Scotland’?
FOR MORE INFORMATION
your supplies. Trek through gum-lined
creek beds, towering gorges, rare
T: (08) 8648 3713 8. The Tour du Mont Blanc
geological formations and sparkling dry E: info@flindersandbeyondcamels.com.au passes through which
lakes. See native flora and fauna in its three countries?
natural habitat and enjoy a night sky
laser show with astronomer Ryan. 9. In 2015, Adelaide was
recognised as a UNESCO
City of what?
10. How many Conservation
Parks can be found
between the Scenic Hotel
and the Mt Lofty Summit
along the Heysen Trail?
DEPARTING JUNE & JULY 2021 - CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION ANSWERS PAGE 14
End-to-End Season Programme 2021
1ST WEEKEND 2ND WEEKEND 3RD WEEKEND 4TH WEEKEND 5TH WEEKEND
E2E -2 E2E 11
SAT & SUN, 22-23 MAY
Wirrabara Forest - Block
E2E -2 9 Rd - Murraytown E2E 12
E2E 14
MAY
SAT TO SUN,
E2E 12 E2E 15 SAT & SUN,
SUN 2 MAY 8-16 MAY
29-30 MAY
Myponga - (WEEK AWAY) SAT & SUN, 15-16 MAY SAT 22 MAY
Wandallah - Newikie
Mt Compass Parachilna - Webb Gap - Burra Cape Jervis – Cobbler Hill
Creek - Dares Hill Rd
Mount Little Station Road - Worlds End
E2E 13
SUN 23 MAY
Nuggett Rd - Mt Crawford
E2E 10 E2E -2
E2E -2
FRI TO MON, 11-14 JUN
(LONG WEEKEND) SAT TO SUN,19-27 E2E 11
E2E 14 JUN (WEEK AWAY)
Buckaringa - Leigh SAT & SUN, 26-27 JUN
JUN
SAT & SUN, 5-6 JUN Creek Rd Mt Little - Eyre Depot
Mt Compass -
Murraytown - Melrose N/A
- Alligator Gorge Rd
Kyeema - Dashwood E2E 13 E2E 12
Gully Rd E2E 15
SUN 13 JUN SAT & SUN, 19-20 JUN
Mt Crawford - Worlds End - SAT 27 JUN
Pewsey Vale Wandallah Cobbler Hill - Tapanappa
E2E 10 E2E 10 E2E -2
THU TO SAT, 8-17 JUL SAT TO SUN, 24 JUL –
(WEEK AWAY) 1 AUG (WEEK AWAY)
Leigh Creek Rd - Eyre Depot - Melrose
Parachilna Gorge
E2E 14 Trailhead E2E 15
JUL
E2E 12
SAT 24 JUL
SUN 4 JUL
E2E 15 SAT & SUN, 17-18 JUL
N/A
Dashwood Gully Rd - Balquhidder - Waitpinga
Mylor SAT 10 JUL Dares Hill Rd - Hallett
Tapanappa - Balquhidder - EE George Rd E2E 11
Quarry SAT & SUN, 24-25 JUL
E2E 13 Alligator Gorge Road
SUN 11 JUL - Horrocks Pass -
Pewsey Vale - Tanunda Broadview
E2E -2 E2E 11
E2E 12 SAT & SUN, 28–29 AUG
AUG
E2E 13 Broadview - Quorn
SUNDAY SAT & SUN, 21-22 AUG
E2E 14 SUN 8 AUG 15 AUGUST EE George Quarry
Tanunda - Kapunda - Spalding Rd - E2E 15
SUN 1 AUG
Mylor - Cleland Chlorinator SAT 28 AUG
Waitpinga - Tugwell Rd
E2E 12 E2E 11
E2E 14 E2E 13 SAT & SUN, 18-19 SEP SAT & SUN, 25–26 SEP
SEP
Chlorinator - Raeville Quorn - Eyre Depot
SUN 5 SEP SAT & SUN, 11-12 SEP N/A
Cleland - Montacute Kapunda - Hamilton - E2E 14 E2E 15
Heights Peters Hill
SUN 19 SEP SAT 25 SEP
Montacute Hts - Cudlee Crk Tugwell Rd - Inman Valley
E2E 15
E2E 13 SAT 9 OCT
E2E 12
OCT
Inman Valley - Myponga
SAT TO MON, 2-4 OCT SUNDAY
(LONG WEEKEND) E2E 14
SAT & SUN, 16-17 OCT
24 OCTOBER N/A
Raeville - Locks Ruin -
Peters Hill -
SUN 10 OCT Bowman Park
Burra Road
Cudlee Creek -
The Nuggett Rd
Version released 7 February 2021 heysentrail.asn.au/walks
End-to-End Season Programme 2021 AUTUMN 2021 • 9
Walking with the Friends Keeping
Check the online walk calendar for the latest track of the PARACHILNA
End-to-End
GORGE TRAILHEAD
updates to the programme. For details about
each walk, the hot weather policy, what to wear
Groups
WILPENA POUND
and what to bring, and details of walk grades,
visit heysentrail.asn.au/walks
Walks Registration E2E -2 HAWKER
Register for a walk either online at Beginning at
heysentrail.asn.au/walks or by phoning the Parachilna
office on 8212 6299. Walk registration closing Gorge in 2021
QUORN
dates and times are listed on each walk event
page, access via the website walk calendar.
E2E 10
Walk Cancellations Dutchman’s Stern
MELROSE
If you need to withdraw from a booked walk, Conservation Park
please notify the leader or the office as soon WIRRABARA
as possible. The easiest way is to login to your
account and withdraw from the walk. CRYSTAL BROOK
E2E 11 HALLETT
End-to-End walks are not subject to a weather
SPALDING
forecast temperature limit, however the walk Wirrabara BURRA
leader may decide to cancel or amend the event if
a weather event is deemed to present a high risk.
E2E 12
TrailStarter, TrailWalker and TrailRambler walks
will be cancelled if the forecast temperature for Webb Gap MARRABEL
Adelaide is equal or higher than 32ºC. Be aware
KAPUNDA
that walks are automatically cancelled when the
forecast weather on the day of the walk is for E2E 13 TANUNDA
severe storms with damaging winds as per the The Nuggett
7pm ABC News on the day prior to the walk. Refer Road, beyond
to abc.net.au/news/weather or bom.gov.au/sa. Cudlee Creek MT LOFTY
Your Walk Leader will send an email to all walkers HAHNDORF
to advise of the cancellation. We suggest you MYLOR
check your emails before leaving to join the walk. E2E 14
Myponga MOUNT COMPASS
Bushfire policy CAPE JERVIS
TRAILHEAD VICTOR HARBOR
If a Total Fire Ban is declared by the CFS in E2E 15
the Fire Ban District where the walk event is
being held, the walk event will be cancelled. Beginning at Cape
Jervis in 2021
In such a case walk fees will be refunded.
Friends Season Walk Programme 2021
1ST WEEKEND 2ND WEEKEND 3RD WEEKEND 4TH WEEKEND 5TH WEEKEND
SAT 10 APR
Willunga Basin Trail SUN 18 APR
SAT 24 APR
Daniel Jardine Mount Lofty
Warren Tower Hike
Botanical Gardens
Dom Henschke
SUN 11 APR Bill Van Riet
MON 26 APRIL -
Walk Season
APR
SUN 2 MAY
Opening
EASTER Walk the Best
Walking SA
of the Yorke
SUN 11 APR SUN 18 APR SAT 24 APR Simon Cameron
Cleland – Wine Lavender Trail Willunga Basin Trail
Shanty Trail Greg Boundy Daniel Jardine
Dom & Marlene
Henschke
SAT 1 MAY SAT 22 MAY
SAT 8 MAY Parra Wirra SAT 29 - SUN 30 MAY
Black Hill SUN 16 MAY
Lavender Trail Julie Testi Walk the Yorke
with 5 Peaks Mount Misery
Greg Boundy Peter Clark
Mike Joyce Part 1 SUN 23 MAY
Peter Clark Onkaparinga
MAY
SUN 2 MAY SAT 8 MAY Michael Middleton SAT 29 MAY
Kuitpo Willunga Basin Trail Willunga Basin Trail
Judith Ellis Daniel Jardine SUN 23 MAY Daniel Jardine
SUN 16 MAY Lavender Trail
Mt Lofty/ Greg Boundy SUN 30 MAY
SUN 2 MAY SUN 9 MAY Heysen Loop Mylor/Aldgate
Belair Loop Cobblers Creek Dom & Marlene SUN 23 MAY
Circuit
Bill Van Riet Kevin Liddiard Henschke Mount Misery Part 2
Rosemary Hayward
Peter Clark
SAT 5 JUN
Sea to Summit SAT 26 - SUN 27 JUN
Paul Frost SAT 12 - SUN 13 JUN Walk the Yorke
Lavender Trail Peter Clark
SAT 5 JUN Greg Boundy
Montacute CP
SAT 26 JUN
JUN
Peter Deacon SUN 20 JUN
Pioneer Women’s
Sturt Gorge
Trail N/A
SUN 6 JUN Noeleen Smith
Onkaparinga Julie Testi
Judith Ellis SAT 12 JUN
Willunga Basin Trail SUN 27 JUN
SUN 6 JUN Daniel Jardine Scott Creek/
Stirling/Mt Lofty Eastern Loop
Bill Van Riet Rosemary Hayward
SAT 3 JUL WED 7 JUL
Willunga Basin Trail O’Halloran Hill RP SAT 24 - SUN 25 JUL
Daniel Jardine Peter Deacon Walk the Yorke
Peter Clark
SUN 4 JUL
JUL
THU 8 JUL SUN 18 JUL
Bridgewater/
Crafers Return
Onkaparinga Hardys Scrub N/A
Judith Ellis Noeleen Smith SUN 25 JUL
Bill Van Riet
Mt Panorama
SUN 4 JUL SAT 10 - SUN 11 JUL Knotts Hill
Mt Crawford Lavender Trail Rosemary Hayward
Peter Deacon Greg Boundy
TRAILWALKER WALKS TRAILSTARTER WALKS SPECIAL EVENTS LAVENDER TRAIL WALK THE YORKE
Version released 7 February 2021 heysentrail.asn.au/walks
Check the online Walk Walking with the Friends Walks Registration
Programme for the latest Check the online walk calendar for Register for a walk either online
updates and to register the latest updates to the programme. at heysentrail.asn.au/walks or by
For details about each walk, the hot phoning the office on 8212 6299.
heysentrail.asn.au/walks weather policy, what to wear and what Walk registration closing dates
to bring, and details of walk grades, and times are listed on each walk
visit heysentrail.asn.au/walks event page.Friends Season Walk Programme 2021 AUTUMN 2021 • 11
1ST WEEKEND 2ND WEEKEND 3RD WEEKEND 4TH WEEKEND 5TH WEEKEND
SAT 14 - SUN 15 AUG
SAT 7 AUG Lavender Trail
Beaumont/Cleland Greg Boundy SAT 28 AUG
Mike Joyce Cobblers to
SAT 14 - SUN 15 AUG Tapanappa
Walk the Yorke Mark Fletcher
Peter Clark
SAT 14 AUG
AUG
SUN 1 AUG SUN 8 AUG SUN 22 AUG
Waitpinga Cape Jervis to
Mack Creek South Para
Judith Ellis Cobblers
Dom Henschke Peter Deacon
Mark Fletcher
MON 30 AUG -
SUN 15 AUG
THU 2 SEP
Mt Crawford
SUN 8 AUG Fleurieu to Mt Lofty
Peter Deacon
Hahndorf John Babister
Settlers Walk SUN 15 AUG
Bill Van Riet Warren Tower Loop
Rosemary Hayward
SAT 11 - SUN 12 SEP
Walk the Yorke
Peter Clark
SUN 26 SEP
SEP
SUN 5 SEP SUN 12 SEP SUN 19 SEP Lobethal
Horsnell Gully Anstey Hill East Gandys Gully Bushland Park N/A
Mike Joyce Kevin Liddiard Simon Cameron Dean and Mary
Cartland
SUN 12 SEP
Brownhill Creek
Robin Sharland
SAT 23 OCT
Trail Rambler
SUN 10 OCT Orchid Walk
Highbury Aqueduct Phil Bell
Kevin Liddiard
OCT
SUN 3 OCT SAT 16 - SUN 17 OCT
SUN 24 OCT SUNDAY
Stirling/ Mt Lofty Walk the Yorke
Sturt Gorge 30 OCTOBER
Bill Van Riet Peter Clark
Noeleen Smith
SUN 10 OCT
Mt Hayfield SUN 10 OCT
Robin Sharland O’Halloran Hill
Simon Cameron
TRAILWALKER WALKS TRAILSTARTER WALKS SPECIAL EVENTS LAVENDER TRAIL WALK THE YORKE
Version released 7 February 2021 heysentrail.asn.au/walks
Accommodation Nunn Road, Myponga along the Heysen Trail
2 self contained cabins with queen bed and single sofa ~ Reverse cycle air-conditioning
Complimentary beer and wine upon arrival ~ Provisions for a cooked breakfast
BBQ & outdoor setting ~ Mention this ad and get 10% discount
New to Heysen’s Rest 4 brand new single rooms on the Heysen’s Trail
Rooms include Ensuite, TV, fridge, king single bed, reverse cycle air condtioning and tea and coffee providedPark of the Month AUTUMN 2021 • 12
MARCH
Mt Lofty Precinct (Cleland CP/WP & Mt Lofty Gdns)
APRIL
Fleurieu Peninsula Parks (Deep Creek, Onkaparinga
River, Myponga Reservoir, plus others)
SAT 10 APR Willunga Basin Trail Daniel Jardine
SAT 24 APR Willunga Basin Trail Daniel Jardine
MAY
Murraylands Parks (Ngarkat, Kinchina, Brookfield)
Celebrate
SAT 8 MAY Monarto-Bondleigh Rd Greg Boundy
JUNE
NPWSSA's Park Mt Remarkable/Southern Flinders Precinct
SA/SU, 26-27 JUN M'town - Alligator Gorge Rd E2E 11
of the Month JULY
with Friends
Northern Eyre Peninsula (Gawler Ranges,
Nullarbor & Cuttlefish Coast Sanctuary Zone)
AUGUST
Join the Friends as we Barossa Parks (Para Wirra, Warren, Hale,
celebrate our amazing parks Kaiserstuhl, Sandy Creek & Sth Para Reservoir)
with the National Parks SUN 1 AUG Mack Creek Dom Henschke
and Wildlife Service South SUN 8 AUG Tanunda - Kapunda E2E 13
Australia's Park of the Month. SUN 15 AUG Warren Twr Loop Rosemary Hayward
SUN 22 AUG South Para Peter Deacon
For the months of April, May, June and SEPTEMBER
August in 2021, walks from the Friends Walks
Programme coincide with NPWSSA's Park of Glenthorne Precinct (Glenthorne NP, O’Halloran
the Month Programme. Come for a stroll and Hill, Hallett Cove, Marino)
help us celebrate these wonderful parklands. OCTOBER
Register for a walk either online at Ikara-Flinders Ranges NP
heysentrail.asn.au/walks or by phoning the NOVEMBER
office on 8212 6299.
Limestone Coast (Naracoorte Caves, Tantanoola
Park of the Month is a great way to gain a Caves, Piccaninnie Ponds)
deeper understanding of our special natural
DECEMBER
places and to find new ways to enjoy them.
Each month NPWSSA provide a variety of Eastern Kangaroo Island Parks (Lashmar, Baudin,
events for everyone to enjoy. Cape Willoughby)Cape Jervis Acknowledgement AUTUMN 2021 • 13
Breakout
SIMON CAMERON
Cape Jervis
title for
Acknowledgement
article
AUTHOR NAME
Indigenous
Photo: Philip Bell
custodians
The Heysen Trail passes
through Country of seven
traditional owners: the
Simon Cameron from the springs along the way, including
Ngarrindjeri, the Kaurna, the
Kingston, Myponga and Yankalilla. His
Friends Reconciliation journey mapped all of the important Peramangk, the Ngadjuri,
Committee acknowledges campsites along the peninsula. the Nukunu, the Banggarla
and the Adnyamathana.
the traditional In acknowledging both traditional
custodians of our land. custodians of the Cape, Heysen walkers Excerpt taken from 'Heysen
T
should reflect on the historical record, Highlights. Companion Guide
as well as the dreaming tales. to the Heysen Trail' by Simon
he Heysen Trail is a
Cameron.
wonderful journey
through South Australia's
landscape. At Cape
“ Smallpox scars were reported in
Jervis, the Friends of The Ngarrindjeri Dreaming both Aboriginal groups by the
Heysen acknowledges the crossover can be found on the earliest colonists to South Australia,
of two Aboriginal language groups storyboards stationed at the presumably transmitted from the
– the Ngarrindjeri and Kaurna. Both beginning of the Trail. eastern colonies along the River
cultures incorporate the Cape in their Murray. Other contagious diseases
Dreaming stories. ” are likely to have followed the same
transmission route.
The Ngarrindjeri tell a creation story Both groups had already felt the
of Ngarrindjeri's search for his two arrival of white man long before There is no way of counting the deaths,
wives, carving the length of the Murray 1836. Matthew Flinders' reports but given the high mortality rates of
River in his search and finally catching and maps were first made public diseases like smallpox and measles
them crossing the then broad valley of in Sydney in 1802. They resulted in in native communities, it begins
Backstairs Passage. It was Ngarrindjeri the opportunistic arrival of sealers to explain why the first colonists
who was responsible for the inundation and whalers soon after. No detailed estimated that the Kaurna only
and stranding of the two women as accounts survived, but tales of numbered three hundred individuals.
islands, later named by Matthew abducted aboriginal women make it Even assuming that many of the
Flinders as the Pages. The story traces into early colonists' accounts. Kaurna were wisely avoiding contact
the rising sea levels after the end of the with the new arrivals, the population
The Ngarrindjeri suffered severely,
last ice age 10,000 years ago. numbers are still low due to epidemics.
judging by their reaction to Captain
The Kaurna recount the epic tale of Collett Barker's unwelcome arrival at So, when the Friends head off
Tjilbruke, carrying the body of his the Murray Mouth in 1822. "The naked westwards from the Cape Jervis
dead nephew from Warriparinga explorer, having swum the River, was Trailhead, we can reflect on the heavy
(River Sturt at Bedford Park) to the unceremoniously dispatched, and his toll of colonisation on the traditional
Cape Jervis cliffs, creating freshwater body thrown into the surf". custodians of the land.Friends News AUTUMN 2021 • 14
What is your favourite
international
walking trail?
ASK A HIKER
Photo: Joe King
The Maltese Cross Walk in The Wicklow Way, Ireland In 2019, I walked the
the Cederberg Wilderness (pictured). The local Camino de Santiago
Area, South Africa. This company that organised from Saint-Jean on the
trail is dominated by many the walk for us were great. French border all the
While the Coast to Coast is
natural rock formations and I loved the Irish accents, way to Finisterre on the
the iconic walk in the UK,
sculptures through its hills craic and September's coast. After 2 months of
I think the Cotswold Way
and valleys. The Maltese blackberry season! predominantly isolated
would be my choice. A walk
Cross takes about 3 hours walking on the Heysen
DOM HENSCHKE along the Cotswold Hills
including a break at the rock (some 9 months earlier),
from Chipping Camden
formation. Allow 4 hours if Office Chair the inviting nature of the
to Bath via Cheltenham.
you take it slowly (7km). A pilgrims and the generosity
Continuous views over
beautiful walk, but tiring on of the Spanish townspeople
Gloucestershire to the Welsh
a hot day. added a communal
border, with the finale in
perspective to my previous
C HRI ST INE PORT ER Bath, Somerset with its
solo hiking experiences.
Roman baths and the fine
Office Volunteer
JOSH WEST Georgian architecture.
Trail Ambassador JULIA N M ON F R IES
Secretary
Lycian Way in southern
Turkey has 560km of
mountains, coast, working
villages and a rich history
Trailthinker
with centuries worth of Quiz Answers
resisting occupation from
I thoroughly enjoyed the Romans, Persians and 1. Hungary 2. 1960’s
Tour Mont Blanc highlights Greeks. We took in 110km (2 July 1968) 3. Victoria
tour, climbing up and over over 6 days staying in The Kokoda Track has had 4. The Overland
all the passes provided pensiones. The trail featured the biggest impact on me. It Track, Tasmania
challenging climbs, with Phaselis – remains of a was indeed challenging, but 5. Port Lincoln
amazing vistas of the Alps city from 700BC; Tekirova, it was the region's history, 6. King William IV
and the deep settled valleys. lined by grey pebbled beach and the appreciation of the 7. Greenock, Barossa
Such different country than and market gardens; and hardships of our troops that Valley 8. Switzerland,
we can find in Australia. Olympos, a swampy nesting left a profound and lasting Italy and France
ground of loggerhead turtles. impression. 9. Music 10. Three
RO B ERT ALCOCK
(Giles, Horsnell
Honorary Member MELANIE SJO BERG JUDY M CA DA M Gully and Cleland)
President Walk LeaderVolunteer Profile AUTUMN 2021 • 15
Volunteer Profile: Tai Lim
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN field days; talking about the Heysen
INVOLVED WITH THE FRIENDS? Trail and contributing in the kitchen
I've been a member of End-to-End 9 if needed.
for six years, having also completed WHAT'S YOUR FONDEST
walks with End-to-End 10 and 11. MEMORY ON THE HEYSEN?
Having worked hard all my life, joining
In 2019, walking with End-to-End 9, we
a walking group with the Friends in my
came across Mayo Hut, near Black Gap.
retirement seemed ideal.
It was the perfect remote setting with
WHY DID YOU INITIALLY rock formations and the only place in
GET INVOLVED WITH a long time that actually had water! A
VOLUNTEERING AT THE full Mernmerna Creek was thrilling to
FRIENDS? see together with the whole group. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR
I wanted to give back, but I wouldn't FAVOURITE WALKS ASIDE
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FROM THE HEYSEN TRAIL?
have made a reliable leader with my HEYSEN TRAIL TOWN/REGION?
few map reading skills, so I thought I have completed lots of walks around
The Melrose Caravan Park and the Australia, but the toughest was Travis
helping out in the maintenance shed
Quorn Eco Van were both beautiful Sabine in New Zealand's south island –
would be a great way to contribute.
and clean. on top of completing the Heaphy Track
WHAT ARE SOME ACTIVITIES IN over 5-6 days. I have also walked in
WHICH YOU'VE VOLUNTEERED IS THERE SOMETHING YOU'D
the Snowy Mountains many times,
WITH THE FRIENDS? NEVER BE WITHOUT WHEN
camping overnight for 5 days at a time.
YOU'RE WALKING?
I love learning new skills; not to I have completed the Pioneer Women's
The most valuable equipment I've Walk and several walks around
mention working with the big saw and
purchased are my top-quality hiking Broken Hill. I loved Mt Bogong and Mt
the welder. In fact, the whole shed
poles. Along with my glasses, these Feathertop in Victoria, having scaled
celebrated my welding efforts. I would
ensure I can chase the walk leader. both with friends.
also be open to offering assistance onSouth Coast Week 2020 AUTUMN 2021 • 16
Photos: Olga Volodicheva
South Coast
Week 2020
Main: Adam Matthews helping
walkers wade through a river crossing.
then return with more cars to
ADAM MATTHEWS
complete the day's trek. Over the
next 2 days, the creek crossings were
tricky but do-able, and everyone
in the group took them in their
After two years of The remaining numbers were made stride. However, a Scout we met at
Coolawang Creek wasn't so lucky,
up by seasoned Heysen walkers who
contemplation and wanted to experience this magnificent having fallen in the swirl and
preparation, Adam coastline stretch again. Upon soaking himself from head to toe.
Matthews reports on reboarding the bus, hand sanitiser From the scattered debris washed up
was deployed, and face masks were around the edge of the creek, it was
the organised group fastened before we disappeared back clear that the water was at least 50cm
walk along the Heysen through the mist. higher a few days ago; luckily, it fell
Trail's south coast. Starting off in dry, but dismal,
as quickly as it rose.
T
conditions, we endured just about I had hoped for a sunny walk from
he idea of an organised every weather scenario over the seven Waitpinga to Kings Beach, so walkers
week of walking along days. The rain set in around lunchtime new to the Heysen Trail could
the coastal stretch of on Day 1 and continued into the night, experience the impressive landscape
the Heysen Trail was making for a very damp start. While on in all its glory. Fortunately, the
first considered in 2018. Days 2, 3 and 4, the group encountered
Walkers who had joined End-to-Enders intermittent showers and strong winds;
further north had mentioned this though the sun did make a welcome
secluded section had been difficult appearance every now and then.
to manage as individual one-off day
walks. So, in October 2020, after more
pondering, and then planning, the idea
“
became a reality. On adventures like these,
small moments create
As the cars and bus appeared
an exceptional experience
through the fog at Cobblers Hill, the
forecasted gloomy weather was front for us all.
of mind. Strong winds, rain and chilly
temperatures were not what we had
”
expected from spring-time October. The 48mm that fell on Day 1 halted
proceedings on Day 2. The gushing
Walkers from across the state (and
Deep Creek Waterfall was deemed
even a couple from over the border)
impassable, so our walk came to a
joined us on the Fleurieu Peninsula;
temporary end at Trigg Campground.
unfortunately, due to COVID-19 Walkers enjoyed the few patches of
Fortunately, our back up driver was
restrictions, several interested sunny weather over the week.
able to ferry us back to Tappanappa,
walkers were forced to withdraw.South Coast Week 2020 AUTUMN 2021 • 17
weather obliged; a gentle breeze
and blue skies complemented
this final stretch of spectacular
Welcome New Members
coastline before heading inland
toward Inman Valley. The President and the Council would like to extend a warm welcome
to the following 84 members who have joined the Friends since the
From the moment this group came
last edition of Trailwalker.
together, strong bonds grew. By the
end of the week, it was as we'd all Sara Bayha Douglas John Jo Molsher Peter Schwetlik
been together for years. On our rest Kathryn Francis Melanie Douglas Shaw
day, following our group dinner in Bickerton Peter Frankis Montgomery Jenefer Silcock
Victor Harbor, I'm certain it would Douglas Jessica Freund David John Skirrow
have been a late booz night if we Bickerton Cobie George Montgomery Tania Slack
didn't have to walk the next day. Peter Boyle Chris Green Jo Morley Johanna
Libby Brown Nicole Green Katie Morrison Somfleth
“ Coral Campbell
Cheryl Clonan
Tonina Harrison
Sandra Hart
Perry Mowbray
Sandi Mowbray
Matthew Stobart
Tanya Stul
As with all Friends trips, Zoe Clonan Phillip Hill Eric Moyle John Taylor
the journey was volunteer- Wayne Clonan Leonie Hill Tina Penna Frances Tolhurst
led, and everyone received Jarad Clonan Trevor Tracey Perkins Bernard Victory
great enjoyment from Cheryl Croll Hoffmann Sam Perkins Manuela Vida
helping out. Louise Cryans Alison James Jack Perkins Kerry Vines
Matthew Daniell Ian James Tom Perkins Rosemary Wallis
” Thomas Doman Elise Kamleh Emma Perkins Mary Welch
On adventures like these, small Jan Ellis Michael Lane Donna Peters Nadine White
moments create an exceptional Clare Ellis Michele Lane Jaime Pooley Pamela Wicks
experience for us all. A number Luke Ellis Michele Lucas Cate Price Roger Wicks
include: after being prompted by Grace Ellis Paul Lucas Victoria Riggs Leonie Wood
Russell, we sang Happy Birthday Hope Ellis Chris Mason Basia Samcewicz Teresa Yeing
to Wanda – a beautiful sentiment, Judith Fabry Ray McKinnon Madison Jack Young
aside from the fact there wasn't a Kim Filipsons Isabel Michell Sandeman Douglas Young
Wanda in the group. Two walkers
also had their boots fall apart;
only cable ties and gaffer tape held
them together for the rest of that
day's trek. Another group member
became separated by a flock of NG E R T
SE
S
sheep; luckily a brave Tailend
RA
SINCE
PA
1995
N S POR
Charlie came to their rescue. And
S
last but not least, celebrating
ST
Transport & Removals
T
I SP
E C I AL
walkers who overcame health issues
to be there with us on the Trail.
Judging by the group's enthusiasm Explore the Mawson & Heysen Trails
and requests for more of these through the Flinders Ranges, or
kinds of walks, this week proved discover the Fleurieu Peninsula
to be a huge success. As with all
Friends trips, the journey was Regular bus services connecting
volunteer-led, and everyone Adelaide and Copley, and the towns
received great enjoyment from in-between. Passenger/freight
helping out. And, to all the walkers timetables available online.
who joined us for the week, thank
you for making it a memorable
one. I look forward to (hopefully)
seeing you for Stage 2 soon.
08 8552 4000
genesis@genesistransport.com.au
A big thank you to the coordinator
John Babister, fellow leaders Robin www.genesistransport.com.au
Sharland and Peter Deacon, and
back-up drivers Mark Curtis, and
Danny and Karen Reynolds.
ON THE MOVE? RING US FOR A REMOVAL QUOTEThe Reality of Solo Hiking a Long-Distance Trail AUTUMN 2021 • 18
Josh making his
way through a
windy channel in
Caroona Creek
Conservation Park.
Photos: Josh West
The Reality of
Solo Hiking a
Long-Distance Trail
JOSH WEST
Heysen Trail Ambassador notepad and began flicking through The dynamic journey through
its crumpled pages. Before long, that South Australia’s regional bushland,
Josh West explains that disregarded question reappeared. After sweeping pastoral land, mountainous
long-distance hiking will weeks of contemplation and a mild ranges and pristine coastline threw up
change you, whether you bout of Post Trail Depression, I realised challenge after challenge for a first-
that I had indeed changed, and in ways time long-distance hiker. However,
like it or not.
T
I could have never imagined. the first week was by far the worst.
Constant stress on my hips, legs, butt,
I only left civilisation for eight
he date was October back and neck, plus the sense I was
weeks, but that comparatively short
10, 2018 and I had just ‘venturing into the unknown’, were
period triggered the most profound
completed my 58th day of all exacerbated by an acute sense of
transformation of my life. I developed
hiking South Australia’s isolation. Every morning, loud groans
more in those eight weeks than the
long-distance Heysen and muffled expletives would come
previous 800.
Trail. With my tent frantically flapping muttering from my tent as my body
around me from Cobbler Hill’s fierce LIFE ON A LONG-DISTANCE discovered new aches from the day
winds, I decided to spend my final TRAIL IS A PARADOX before. But soon, this distress oddly
night scribbling down my thoughts shifted to a type of comfort.
from the journey. My initial internal Walking 1,200 kilometres over 59
inquiry read: ‘have I changed?’ days was never meant to be easy, and I grew accustomed to the early
the Heysen Trail certainly lived up to mornings, the long distances, the
I pondered the gravity of the question. those expectations. While there were heavy pack, the bland meals, the
Does anybody truly change? And if they countless moments of heart-swelling regular aches and the mindless
do, how can you tell? The sentiment inspiration, much of the journey solitude. Each difficulty was a part of
seemed overly presumptuous; I ran a required plonking one foot tiresomely my journey; I carried them as much
line through the text and moved on. in front of the other, stretching every as they carried me. They were no
A month later, in desperate need aching muscle and eating mush. I longer inconveniences; they were
of on-trail nostalgia, I relocated my learned very early on, a solo walker indispensable assets to help me
must be built for attrition. achieve my goal.The Reality of Solo Hiking a Long-Distance Trail AUTUMN 2021 • 19
THE INEVITABLE POST-TRAIL
Another kangaroo encounter after
STRUGGLE
leaving Inman Valley on Day 55.
As so often happens to hikers
after completing a journey of this
magnitude, I retreated into a post-
trail-slump once I arrived back to
‘normality’. The ‘reverse culture
shock’ I encountered following this
perspective-shifting experience left me
feeling oddly misplaced in my usual
suburban surroundings.
The day after completing the Trail,
I found myself idling at home,
walking back and forth to the fridge,
gazing mindlessly at the TV guide
and foraging through emails, as if
nothing had changed. But, so much THEN THERE WERE THE snot had congealed in my sinuses,
had changed — most notably, my view PHYSICAL ADJUSTMENTS and a thumping congestion-induced
of the world. A long-distance hike is headache became my new routine.
so far removed from society’s norms, The lost sleep that I had yearned to
that processing the whole experience, recover, after stepping out the other It would be some weeks before my
comparative to ‘everyday life’, is almost side of Cape Jervis on Day 59, was body and mind fully readjusted,
impossible; it was as though I’d seen not forthcoming. My body clock and I could process the contrasting
too much. Ignorance was indeed bliss rang clamourously loud at six o’clock lifestyles.
— but now, the filter was gone. every morning, while my aching
legs, which had grown accustomed MANAGING POST TRAIL
After spending two months noticing the to walking 20-odd kilometres each DEPRESSION
simplicity in nature — morning dew on day, twitched restlessly without the Be aware, if you’re planning to tackle
spider webs, features in mountainsides, regular extensive exercise. a long-distance trail, you may feel
different bird calls — I recognised
out of place when you return. At first,
similar, albeit much gloomier, patterns
when I returned to civilisation. As “ everything might seem the same,
but as you try to settle back into your
a result, I questioned humanity’s It would be some weeks place in the world, you may find that
place in the natural world. Why are before my body and mind your position has shifted.
certain groceries in the supermarket
fully readjusted, and I could Gone are the days of eating guiltless
wrapped in plastic? Why do people
continuously buy bottled water? Why
process the contrasting calories, peaceful solitude and
does everyone on commercial radio lifestyles. bountiful hours to just think. Instead,
shout? How is ‘Love Island’ an actual
TV show (that one still confuses me)?
” you’re faced with society’s sedentary
lifestyle, countless responsibilities
And when did we get to the point Then, my immune system finally and constant noise. You may feel a
that society accepts or even applauds packed it in and brought on the worst loss of purpose or interest, a decrease
mundanity and waste? I felt helpless head cold of my life. Two months of in motivation or unyielding nostalgia
and overwhelmed. What was going on? for the Trail.
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www.kennards.com.auThe Reality of Solo Hiking a Long-Distance Trail AUTUMN 2021 • 20
Whatever the case, know that you will to remember all of the positive aspects And let’s not underestimate the
come back changed, and it won’t be the trail taught you—trust me, there effects of 8-12 hours of daily exercise,
easy for your loved ones to understand. will be many. unprecedented amounts of vitamin D
and South Australia’s spectacular
If you start to feel yourself slipping into a IF LONG-DISTANCE HIKING IS natural backdrop have on your
depressive state, seek guidance. It might SUCH A PAIN, WHY DO IT? wellbeing. It’s no surprise my
not seem that anybody understands,
Notwithstanding the on-trail and post- endorphins were flowing, and my
but Post Trail Depression is common
trail blues, hiking the Heysen Trail is inspiration was constantly high.
amongst long-distance hikers, and
professional advice exists. If it’s urgent, the best thing I’ve ever done. Period.
EPIPHANIES AND LIFE-
call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14. I was asked several times immediately LESSONS WERE ENDLESS
following the hike, whether I would
Every single day on the Trail, I learned
“ ‘do it’ again? At the time, as I suffered
through my slump, I dithered in
something new about myself and
Remember all of the positive response. Would I put myself through the
expanded my view of the world. After
aspects the trail taught you— pain of a long-distance trail again? Now,
all, much of the time, I didn’t have
trust me, there will be many anything to do but think. I learned to
my answer is an unequivocal ‘yes, when
take the positives out of everything,
”
are we leaving?‘
stay better in-tuned with my body, not
Every day I fought exhaustion, fatigue, sweat the small stuff and appreciate
On top of seeking help, there are hunger, isolation and monotony, every little convenience (can I get an
several ways to move past Post Trail and every day I won. Every day I was Amen for plumbing?). But, most of all,
Depression and begin integrating back challenged in unforeseen ways, and I exchanged my search for enjoyment
into society; these include connecting every day I improved myself—that for a desire for fulfilment.
with fellow hikers, staying active, perpetual sense of accomplishment
continuing to experience the wild and For most of us, life is very accessible,
feels euphoric. The hardships of the
giving back to the trail that changed and it’s easy to bypass long-lasting
journey are a vehicle to this elation.
your life. But, most of all, it’s important fulfilment in the search for short-term
T FOR AL
UN L
CO
FR
DIS
10%
IENDS OF
RS
BE
HE
YSEN MEMThe Reality of Solo Hiking a Long-Distance Trail AUTUMN 2021 • 21
This merry group of hikers joined Josh for a fundraising
walk from the hills of Greenock to Tanunda.
satisfaction. This life-lesson was never my belongings stolen, carried an suffering from mental health issues
more exposed than on Day 51 when I oafishly heavy bag for 1,200 kilometres and, the piezoresistance, raised an
enjoyed a few quick slices of leftover and spent 59 days walking a trail that expectation-shattering $12,000 for the
trail angel-delivered pizza for breakfast, could have been driven in one. Black Dog Institute — an incredible
instead of diligently preparing my usual achievement for everybody involved.
And yet, as I looked deeper, my Heysen
bland porridge. As a result, my body
Trail experience was unquestionably I achieved more for myself and others
felt so depleted throughout the day
the most rewarding of my life to date. on this adventure than I ever dreamed
that the seemingly short 15-kilometre
possible. And while South Australia’s
stretch took a gruelling seven hours Over the two-month adventure,
astonishing landscapes provided an
to complete; my concentration and I’d strengthened my resilience,
unforgettable backdrop, it was the
momentum were drained. While I may bolstered my physical conditioning,
community’s incredible kindness and
have been sick to the gills of masticating straightened my white-collar posture,
steadfast support that amplified this
mush each morning, the energy and captured South Australia’s stunning
truly memorable experience.
nourishment it provided was the best natural beauty, reconnected with lost
thing for me. Lesson learned. mates, organised a community event,
created a strong relationship with the
MY JOURNEY FELT FAR FROM Friends of the Heysen Trail, opened View the original article online at
A SOLO HIKE lines of communication for people www.trekkingwest.com
I know my Heysen Trail adventure
might have seemed like a ‘solo hike’,
but this could not be further from the @aaronharrisonimages
truth. Yes, days went by without seeing
another soul, but I knew I had hundreds
of supporters trumpeting my every step.
Throughout the trek, I savoured the
encouragement of dear family, close
mates and countless new friends who
continually reinforced my mission
by generously donating to Black Dog
Institute. On top of this, there were my
beautiful trail angels who contributed
delicious meals, snug accommodation Want to
and sanity-saving conversations on the become an
road. Each and every one of you has Instagram
my eternal gratitude. curator?
SO, WHAT DID I ACHIEVE?
Other than growing a horrifyingly
ginger beard, what did I actually
Best of Heysen Are you a regular Instragram user?
Ever thought about testing your
accomplish? Immediately following
the hike, it seemed like nothing of any
on Instagram eye as a curator? The Friends are
calling for volunteers to help run our
great consequence. I withered myself Mayo Hut under the Instagram page @heysentrailfriends.
thin, drank contaminated water, lost Milk Way captured by Contact the Trailwalker Editor at
my rain jacket, ruined a bunch of @aaronharrisonimages trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au
technology, mangled my ankle, hadArticle Title AUTUMN 2021 • 22
Dorothea and Fran
enjoying being the sole
occupants at Berry Bay.
Photos: Ruth Rice
Walk the Yorke
in the Year
of COVID
RUTH RICE
After a year of stifled We have trekked many such trails in we then made a few caravan park
the past, and thoroughly enjoy the bookings, reserved one lovely bed and
plans, Ruth Rice and zen nature of multi-day walking, but breakfast apartment in Warooka, plus
the rest of her 'three we had heard differing reports of an another booking in Dhilba Guuranda-
musketeers' tackle uninspired track around the peninsula. Innes National Park, and we were set
How incorrect they were! for three weeks. We drove over with
South Australia's Walk two cars to shuttle at the start and end
the Yorke trail. We will be firmly setting any
of each day's walk (carrying only a day
W
naysayers straight about the Walk;
pack was a nice change).
it is wonderful, varied, and so close
ith holiday plans in to Adelaide. We have completed the We downloaded the Guthook app (the
disarray, including entire Heysen Trail more than once, Walk the Yorke trail can be purchased
our planned four- and, I'm confident in saying, this separately or included as a part of
week adventure walk is right up there with it. the Australia/NZ package). The app
on the Bibbulmun helped calculate our daily distances
Track, our eyes turned toward a local PREPARATION and showed us where to go whenever
long-distance trail; Walk the Yorke on navigation became tricky (which wasn't
Preparation for the trail was
the Yorke Peninsula. We had known often). We also downloaded paper
surprisingly easy to arrange. Into the
about the 'Yorke' since it's inception maps from the Yorke Peninsula website
cars went the tent and camping gear;
but had never considered walking it. www.visityorkepeninsula.com.au.Walk the Yorke in the Year of COVID AUTUMN 2021 • 23
THE WALK lovely until one of us (too far in the by poor weather), but even those were
lead to remonstrate with) decided to of some interest. We swiftly learnt to
Being familiar with the peninsula's east
take a shortcut across Tiparra Bay at check the wind direction, then decide
coast from numerous family holidays,
low tide. "We'll save heaps of time…. it whether we would walk south to
we decided to explore the track from
only looks like there's water out here"; north (later east to west) or vice versa.
north to south, in an anticlockwise
needless to say, we ended up wading High winds saw us abandon our tent
direction, starting in Moonta Bay. We
through knee-high water. Then, the (which more closely resembled a hot
set up our base at the recently upgraded
other of us became stuck in quicksand air balloon at one stage) for a cabin at
Port Hughes Caravan Park and walked
when they tried to make it back to Port Rickaby. Our thanks go to the off-
the first 4km that day, in what was a
dry land. There's always an adventure duty Park Managers – we're sorry for
foretaste of the delights to come.
somewhere. As compensation though, interrupting your evening off.
we saw our first white-fronted chat
“ soon after.
“
We spent hours bird- Access became easier after 'The Gap', Corny Point Caravan Park
watching, taking photos, and we averaged approximately
was another excellent
and examining bountiful 12km a day. Not long distances, but
find, one we have already
wildflowers, shells and the each day was full. Car shuttles took
time (one disadvantage of not recommended to friends.
occasional beached jellyfish.
”
carrying full packs end-to-end), and
we spent hours bird-watching, taking
”
photos, and examining bountiful Walking in October/November
The next day was projected to be 23km wildflowers, shells and the occasional allowed us to observe a variety of
and began with a long car shuttle via beached jellyfish. migratory birds, and a few lovely
Tiparra Springs Road, then a walk bush tracks varied our walk allowing
across sand dunes to access the trail We were quickly entranced by the Walk
us to recognise flowers, and, further
on the beach. Beach walking was (aside from a couple of days marred
south, orchids.
I suggest walking the section
north of Port Victoria (from
Wardang Rd to Chinamen Wells
Rd) at dawn or dusk to see
southern hairy-nosed wombats.
Their burrows were a highlight in
this section.
Watch for ticks along the south
of Yorke Peninsula; I wasn't
careful enough and copped three
– starting north of Corny Point,
and then again through Innes
National Park. Be careful.
We documented the best
campsites to revisit (or tell
family and friends about), the
beaches that looked suitable for
the grandkids, and our favourite
Tips for sections of the trail.
future Purchase an official set of
walkers maps to help work out trail
access, particularly helpful in
the somewhat inaccessible Port
Hughes to Balgowan section.You can also read
