The Bushwalkers Handbook

In the event of an emergency

Bushwalking Rescue Squad (BWRS) Step 1 Phone 0427 455 897 Step 2 Wait for it to connect. It takes

around 10 seconds to connect so do not hang up! Then it will ring through a few phone diversions. For further details check out their website http://www.bwrs.org.au

Greetings from NPA Bushwalking!

Nature Keepers Conservation Program 6

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Walks Grading

7
10

Guidelines for Walkers Become a Walks Leader Bushwalkers Code

Equipment Nuts and Bolts

13 15 18
21 23

Safety Advice

25

National Parks Association of NSW Inc Level 2, 5 Wilson Street, Newtown 2042 Phone- 02 9299 0000 E mail [email protected] www.npansw.org.au

NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Greetings from NPA Bushwalking

NPA bushwalking is the largest program in Australia, and for that matter the southern hemisphere! There are over 1000 activities on offer each year at least one activity every day of the week with multiple activities available at the weekend. We are indebted to our 200+ active leaders who volunteer their time to lead these activities. The bushwalking program caters for all tastes and levels with walks ranging from easy strolls in urban areas through to multi day exploratory pack walks in the wilderness. Many of the walks we offer take you into the National Parks that we have played, and continue to play, an active role in preserving. Our program includes activities in Sydney, around NSW, interstate and overseas. There are many walks that have a special interest focus such as bird watching, nature photography, native plants and local history. We also offer a plethora of activities in addition to bushwalking such as canyoning, bush regeneration, cycling, kayaking, abseiling and talks/slideshows. For this reason we often refer to our program as Bushwalking and more.. By joining the NPA you are able to access this extensive program whilst also knowing that your membership fee is going towards the protection of the very areas into which we will take you. It is reassuring to know that you are covered under the NPA insurance when participating in our activities. The tagline Walk safely, walk with the NPA doesnt just apply to the benefits of being part of a group and being led by our experienced leaders. NPA membership also provides you with extensive personal accident cover which does not just apply to bushwalking, but to all NPA advertised activities (with the exception of overseas trips). We have put together this handbook as a guide to taking part in the NPA activities

Greetings from NPA Bushwalking

program. Our website also acts as a valuable font of information www.npansw.org.au but for the purposes of getting you started this guide will suffice. Once you get started though without doubt the most valuable sources of

information are our legendary walks leaders and the people youll meet whilst on the activities themselves. We look forward to welcoming you on one of our activities.

What we do
National Parks Association of NSW is a nongovernment conservation group that seeks to protect, connect and restore the integrity and diversity of natural systems in NSW and beyond, through national parks, marine sanctuaries and other means.

Great Australian Bushwalk 2007, Como-Janalli-Bonnet Bay, NSW

NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Nature Keepers Conservation Program

The Nature Keepers (NK) program has been part of NPA for 8 years. Its focus is on protecting and restoring the natural heritage of NSW. Our NK program has many interesting activities available including bush regeneration, tree planting, track maintenance bushwalking, dive/ kayak clean ups and multi day events. Many of our NK programs partner with the National Parks and Wildlife Service and their highly skilled rangers.

Corporate program
Nature Keepers also has an exciting corporate volunteering program that is a great way for business to do their share for the environment and community as well as encouraging employees to work together in a new environment. Contact us on 9299 0000 for more details about how you can get your workplace involved and to receive an information pack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who are we?
The National Parks Association of NSW (NPA) was formed in 1957 to promote the concept of a network of national parks in NSW under specialist national parks and wildlife legislation and managed by a professional agency. Today NPA continues to build on this work through a network of 18 branches and over 5,000 members and supporters. NPA has a strong commitment to the protection and best-practice management of Australias unique natural areas and the biodiversity that depends on them.
Spring 2012
Welcome,
With warmer weather on the way it is great to see a number of canyoning trips back on the program and an even richer assortment of kayaking trips both in the regular program and the Nature Seekers section. Once again we have included a Walk of the Month section in the main body of the journal in the hope of attracting new members to our ranks. We are very proud of the redesigned journal and have been distributing it far and wide to get word out about what we do. The Walk of the Month is a great opportunity to introduce friends and family to bushwalking so feel free to bring them along. We have also put together a really exciting corporate events program for our Nature Seekers activities. This program is far broader than before and includes track maintenance, bush regeneration, clean up dives and kayak cleanups among other things. Please get in touch if you think your business or place of work may be interested in participating. On the bushwalking front we have teamed up with Blue Mountains Festival of Walking to promote some of our walks in early October. It is great to see too that some of our leaders are taking advantage of the milder weather to propose some really exciting multi-day walking trips. I hope that you enjoy this rich and varied Spring program. For updates make sure that you are signed up to the NPA short notice bulletin by contacting me at [email protected]. I hope to see you out in the bush one of these days. All the best, Dylan

Activities Program
Key dates for your diary
September 9 Memorial walk for Des Towne in Heathcote NP September 15 An interesting walk with Greg Layman in Dharug NP September 23 The Coastal track Otford to Bundeena with Brian Everingham September 29 Second in a series of walks exploring Ben Bullen State Forest September 29 - 30 Coinslot and Bull Ant Canyons with Adiran Cooper October 12 -15 Richard Thompsons annual trip to the bushwalkers resort in the Blue Mountains October 17 Great walk with Adrian Jones on the Engadine track in the Royal NP October 15 - 27 Series of paddles in the Macquarie River/Marshes area with Caryl Sefton November 4 - 15 Trip to the Western Snowy Mountains with Graham Burgess November 5 Another great Monday walk proposed by Mal January in the Blue Mountains November 10 - 11 A return to Coolana with Bill Holland on his introductory camping trip November 28 Conservation in a changing world. Talk/Slideshow presented by Kirstin Proft, NPA Biodiversity Conservation Officer Further details can be found either within the program, on the website or by contacting the NPA directly 9299 0000 [email protected]

Hurlstone Agricultural High School comes bushwalking with NPA

Well on the second Saturday of the school holidays, I went bushwalking. Even though Im not part of the environment committee, it was a privilege to be invited along. We had to get up at the ungodly hour of 6:30 thanks to our president Dalenas cheery wake up text. Packing my bag full of snacks and lollies for the trip I set out to school, where we would be driven to Dharawal National Park. Getting there was a sleepy 3 hours for all of us, some nodding off. Meeting our guide for the day, Graham Burgess (Illawarra Branch), he prepped us up by telling us of the 1.8km trek while we were standing in the drizzling rain. It seemed really bleak at that moment. Well we started on the easy half, walking on a sand path and metal pavement. We stopped at a dam and a miniature waterfall to be tourist and take plenty of pictures. Heading back to the starting point, Graham pointed to us our path on our paper maps. This is where the brutal, true-grit bushwalking begins. We trekked through two freezing rivers, unmarked paths, a myriad of thorny bushes, not to mention leeches and an uphill climb. It was tough work, but you know what, at the end of the day I was glad I woke up early and came on this awesome nature bushwalk. Jasmine Nguyen Hurlstone Agricultural High School

Check out www.npansw.org.au for the most current and detailed version of the NPA activities program

Quarterly Activities Program (left) and Walk of the month article featured in the Journal

How do I find out about bushwalks?

When you join National Parks Association you will receive a copy of our quarterly journal and activities program. The program is supplemented by the short notice bulletin, emailed out at regular intervals and includes additional activities.

On joining NPA you will be assigned a Branch, in accordance with the area in which you reside. The branches may have additional activities. In total you will be directly informed of over 1000 activities a year. A comprehensive list is posted on the NPA website but leader and transport details are omitted to ensure that access to the program can be controlled.

NPA Bushwalking Handbook

What if Im unfit or new to bushwalking?

Our walks vary in difficulty and the Walks Grading system provides a broad classification in this regard. We appreciate though that participating in a bushwalk for the first time can be quite a daunting prospect so feel free to call the NPA office for any advice. In simple terms start with easy trips (grade 1) until your fitness improves and be aware of your physical limitations. The NPA Walk of the Month, advertised on the NPA website, is good way to start as it is designed as an introductory walk.

How do I join a bushwalk?

The bushwalk activities include reference to Grade and Distance as well as notes relating to other specific hazards on the walk. Read through the Walk Grading classifications (page 10) and notes on hazards to assess the suitability of the walk to your own personal capabilities. If you feel that the walk is within your capabilities you should contact the leader directly in order to sign up. Be aware that the more notice you can give the leader the better, both to ensure that you get a place on the walk and to make life easier for the leader see the nuts and bolts section (page 23) for more detail.

Group on Bushwalk in the Royal National Park Photo: Brian Everingham

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do where it says no need to contact?

In some cases leaders will put no need to contact on their activities and simply include detailed information about transport arrangements and the meeting time and place. This usually applies for easier walks in the program where strict number limits are not required. This system works for regular walkers in these groups but can be a bit daunting to newer walkers. Feel free to call us at the NPA office if you require any clarification with regards to the walks classified in this manner.

What other activities can I do with NPA?

It is with good reason that the NPA activities program is advertised as being Bushwalks and more as the more incorporates a plethora of other activities. These activities include kayaking, canyoning, conservation volunteering, cycling, skiing, abseiling and talks/ slideshows which are all regularly featured in the program. The NPA insurance also covers these activities.

What about insurance?

Members of the NPA are covered by personal accident insurance through the Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs NSW, and trip leaders are covered by public liability insurance (also through the Confederation). The validity of this insurance is dependent on the signing of an Attendance form at the start of a walk which includes a risk waiver. It is NPA policy that non-members are also covered for 2 trial walks prior to becoming members.
View from Kayak, Kangaroo Valley, NSW

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Walking Grades

Walks Grading
NPA recognises that walks grading is a contentious one among the bush walking community given the high level of subjectivity involved. As such we have chosen to adhere to the guidelines of the Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs NSW to provide our framework as this is directly linked to the insurance policy under which all NPA members are covered. Their walks grading are set out below.

Grade 1
Opportunity for large number of walkers, including those with reduced walking ability to walk on well marked and even tracks. Tracks are man made and may have a few steps. Should not be steep. Suitable for beginners. Distance should not exceed about 10km.

Grade 2
Mostly on tracks of low gradient Opportunity to walk easily in natural environments on well marked tracks. Tracks should not be steep. Distance should not exceed about 15km.

Walks Grading

11

Grade 3
Walk with some hilly sections &/or rougher terrain. Opportunity to walk on defined and distinct tracks with some steep sections requiring a moderate level of fitness. Suitable for fit beginners. Distance should not exceed about 20 km.

Grade 4
Steeper, rougher terrain & may have off-track sections (no more than one quarter of the walk) or a longer distance track walk. Opportunity to explore and discover relatively undisturbed natural environments mostly along defined and distinct tracks. Tracks can be steep. There may be short sections of rock scrambling involved. Leaders should have map reading abilities and/or ability to use a compass. Distance depending on circumstances. Not suitable for most beginners.

Grade 5
Off-track or difficult terrain. Opportunity for walkers with advanced outdoor knowledge and skills to find their own way along often indistinct tracks or off track in remote locations. May include steep sections of unmodified surfaces. There may be rock scrambling, creek walking & crossing involved. Distance should not exceed 30 km, but may be short & difficult. Not suitable for beginners.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Walking Grades

Grade 6
Strenuous off-track walk or very long distance. Opportunity for highly experienced walkers to explore remote and challenging natural areas without reliance on managed tracks. Terrain may be steep, uneven and no track. There may be rock scrambling, creek walking & crossing involved. Distance covered is unlimited, but may be short & difficult. Only for experienced walkers and not suitable for beginners.

In line with previous NPA guidelines we still feel that it is necessary to add a descriptive element of potential hazards when proposing walks which are listed in the walks description. For walks classified above Grade 3 we request that ascent and descent figures are also included.

Notes
1. A grading T.I.E. (Take It Easy) may be added to any grade where suitable. This is a shorter, slower paced walk for people with lesser fitness. May be some rougher terrain. This is for some older or less fit people who may like to do some harder walks, possibly including off track but at their own pace. 2. Exploratory walks may take place in the higher grades, but participants should be advised that the walk is exploratory. 3. National Park party size limits where applicable are to be complied with. 4. Some variations to the definitions above may be needed to cover some walks, & participants should be advised of this.

Guidelines for Walkers

13

Guidelines for Walkers

Dorrigo National Park, NSW Photo: National Treasures

Prior to walk
1. Ensure that you are fit enough for the degree of difficulty of the walk. If in doubt discuss with the leader or NPA activities coordinator prior to the walk. 2. Arrive at starting point on time. 3. If it is your first walk with NPA let the leader know. 4. Carry sufficient water for conditions of walk, generally a minimum of one litre, but two litres or more in hotter conditions. 5. Ensure you are suitably equipped including first aid kit, sunscreen, hat, rain gear,

whistle, torch and appropriate clothing and footwear. A map and compass are also recommended where required
See Equipment page (page 21).

6. Pack lunch if required along with some snacks to keep your energy levels up. 7. Ensure you complete the sign on sheet after reading the Walks Attendance Form and noting any risk warnings. 8. Be sure to let the leader know if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that he/she should be aware of. 9. Remember our leaders are all volunteers. Bring a sense of humour and adventure.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

During the walk

1. Follow the leaders instructions. Remember your leader has your welfare at heart. Be courteous, co-operative and helpful to other walkers in the group. 2. Follow the Confederations Bushwalkers Code (page18). 3. Generally you should not leave the walk early unless pre-arranged, but if it is necessary you must advise the leader and if requested, sign off on the activity sign on sheet. 4. 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. 5. Allow sufficient distance between yourself and the walker in front so that you are not struck by branches flicking back. 6. Do not leave the track, if on a track walk, or fall behind the person appointed tail for any reason without advising the tail.

Dorrigo National Park, NSW Photo: National Treasures

At the end of the walk

Ensure the leader is aware you have made it to the end and remember to thank them.

Car pooling is recommended Contribute to car costs if you are a passenger in another members vehicle see the guidelines on the NPA website.

Become a Walks Leader

15

Become a Walks Leader

With over 200+ leaders across NSW we have plenty of hands on deck to lead our activities. We are always looking for new leaders though and we offer a mentoring system with our more experienced leaders to get prospective leaders trained up. We provide a series of training courses on navigation and first aid for anyone interested in becoming a leader. If you think that you might like to join our star team of volunteers and start leading for NPA phone 9299 0000 for further information. Becoming a leader gives you a chance to learn new skills and contribute to the continued success of our program. Wed love to hear from you.

Walking group, NPA photo archive

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Leader guidelines
1. Ask all walk participants to fill out the NPA Attendance form and sign accordingly. 2. Send the Attendance form to Head Office as soon as possible. The form is a central component of our insurance validation. 3. Adhere to national parks group size guidelines and NPA walk limit suggestions see www. npansw.org.au for details

4. Choose areas and walk levels that are within your capabilities as a leader. 5. Clearly describe potential hazards to all intending participants and exclude any participant who in the leaders judgement may have difficulty completing the planned activity. 6. Leave comprehensive details of the walk with a reliable person including instructions on what to do if you do not return at the expected time. 7. A few days prior to the walk check transport details if applicable, expected weather conditions and in summer, fire conditions, park closures etc.

Planning a walk
1. Provide an accurate description of the walk, including the activity grade and forward the details to the actvities coordinator for approval. 2. Pre-walk the route if possible taking note of any potential risks and morning tea and lunch spots. If the walk is exploratory plan the walk from reference to the map or by reference to other information sources. 3. Have an alternate plan in case of unforeseen circumstances. eg. flash flooding, track erosion, transport changes etc.

Prior to the start of and during the walk

1. Ensure a map, compass, personal locator beacon (PLB), first aid kit and any other equipment appropriate for the planned activity are brought on the activity. 2. Ensure all participants complete the sign on sheet (NPA Attendance form) that includes the Risk Waiver form.

Become a Walks Leader

17

3. Hold an introductory circle prior to setting out and advise details of the walk including expected terrain, distance, possible hazards, expected return time etc. and that all participants have the requisite experience, equipment and fitness for the activity. The leader has the right to refuse participation to any persons they consider may present a risk to themselves or other participants or do not have the necessary skills for the activity. 4. Ascertain if anyone is carrying a mobile phone, GPS or PLB for emergency use and whether any participants have a first aid certificate and/or medical training. 5. When relevant, ensure car is secured, lights off and keys securely put away. 6. Ensure everyone has adequate food & water, at least one litre for a day walk (& more as required for overnight trips). In hotter conditions carry 2 litres or more. 7. Have a reliable person act as tail for the group and advise participants not to fall behind this person for any reason

without advising the tail. Ensure you maintain a line of sight with the participants. 8. On track walks, appoint a person to wait at track junctions to ensure nobody goes the wrong way. Carry out regular head counts to ensure you have everyone. 9. Have regular drink and rest breaks and allow walkers to regroup. 10. Manage the group, & monitor any unexpected hazards. Ensure everyone is comfortable with the pace and conditions. Remember it is easier for fast walkers to slow down rather than slow walkers to speed up.

At the end of the walk

1. Ensure that all participants have arrived at the finishing point, and that all vehicles start before anyone leaves. 2. Forward the completed sign on sheet including reports of any incidents/ accidents to the activities co-ordinator. 3. Contact the person with whom trip details were left to inform them of return.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

BUSHWALKERS CODE
Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs (New South Wales) Code of Conduct
Do not disturb our Bushland
If you enjoy the pleasures of bushwalking and related self-reliant outdoor activities, you have a big responsibility to protect and preserve the natural landscape for the enjoyment of future generations. This guide will help you enjoy the bush without leaving your mark.

Watch your safety

Know what to do in emergencies. Rescue operations often cause serious damage, so take care to avoid the need for rescue. Be properly trained in First Aid so you know how to handle illness and injuries. (NPA runs regular Senior First Aid courses) Carry clothing and equipment to suit the worst possible conditions you are likely to encounter. Carry a mobile phone if you want to, but use it only for summoning aid in an emergency. Keep it switched off until needed. Note that phone coverage is often patchy or non existent in the bush so dont rely on your mobile phone in the event of an emergency. Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) to ensure that you can call for help in an emergency. NPA has a number of PLBs that are available for members to borrow.

Be self reliant
Enjoy the natural landscape as it is, on natures terms. Carry with you the things you need for your comfort and safety. For shelter, carry a lightweight tent or flysheet, or use a cave or rock overhang. Avoid huts except when weather conditions are really bad, but be prepared to share the hut. Do not camp in an overhang with Indigenous rock art, as the art can be damaged by dust, smoke and fumes.

Bushwalkers Code

19

Pack it in, pack it out

Dont carry glass bottles and jars, cans, drink cartons lined with aluminium foil and excess packaging. If you cant resist carrying such things, dont leave them in the bush. Remember, if you can carry a full container in, you can easily carry the empty one out. Remove all your rubbish including food scraps, paper, plastic, aluminium foil and empty containers. Dont burn or bury rubbish. Burning creates pollution and buried rubbish may be dug up and scattered by animals. Digging also disturbs the soil, causing erosion and encouraging weeds. Carry a plastic bag for your rubbish. If you find litter left by irresponsible people along the track or around a campsite, please remove it. Show you care for the environment, even if others dont. When walking in scrubby country, do not strap closed-cell sleep mats or items in plastic bags outside your pack. The bush will be littered with pieces of foam and plastic.

Be hygienic
Ensure you are at least 50 metres from campsites, creeks and lakes, when going to the toilet. Wait until you get out of sensitive areas such as caves and canyons before defecating or urinating. Bury all faeces and toilet paper at least 15cm deep. In snow, dig through the snow first, then dig a hole in the ground. Carry out things that wont easily decompose, such as used tampons, sanitary pads and condoms. Carry a lightweight plastic trowel or a large aluminium tent peg to make digging easier.

Keep water pure

Wash cooking and eating utensils well back from the edge of lakes and creeks so waste water falls on soil where it will be absorbed. Prevent soap, detergent or toothpaste from getting into natural water systems. Similarly, when washing cooking utensils, dont use detergent and dont let oils and food scraps get into creeks or lakes. Always swim downstream from where you get your drinking water.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Be VERY careful with fire

Have a fire only when you are absolutely certain you can light it with safety. A fuel stove is preferable for cooking and thermal clothing is better for warmth. Always use a fuel stove in places where even a tiny fire may cause permanent damage. Places where fire lighting should be avoided include many rainforest and all alpine regions.

Do not light fires

In hot, summer conditions In dry windy weather In declared fuel stove only areas When there is a declared fire ban. Always remember- Fire doesnt destroy aluminium foil, and plastics release toxic gases when burnt. So carry foil and plastics out in your pack with all your other rubbish, including food scraps. Dont use your campfire as a rubbish incinerator.

fire on a bare patch left by previous fires. Dont light it on fresh ground. Light your fire on bare soil or sand, well away from stumps, logs, living plants and river stones (which may explode when heated). Definitely dont build a ring of stones as a fireplace. This is unnecessary and unsightly. Dismantle stone rings wherever you find them. Sweep away all leaves, grass and other flammable material for at least two metres around your fireplace. (Major bushfires have been caused by careless campers who didnt take this precaution.) Burn only dead wood thats fallen to the ground. Dont break limbs from trees or shrubs. Keep your fire small remember, the bigger the fool, the bigger the fire.

Before you leave

Douse your fire thoroughly with water, even if it appears to be already out. Dont try to smother a fire by covering it with soil or sand as the coals will continue to smoulder for days. Only water kills a fire with total certainty.

If you light a campfire, follow these rules

In popular campsites, light your

Equipment

21

EQUIPMENT
There is no such thing as bad weather only unsuitable clothing" Alfred Wainwright
The following lists are guides only and seasonal conditions should be considered. Extra items of a personal preference may also be carried as well as any items specifically requested by the leader. We recommend that at least one (PLB) be carried on walks that have limited or no mobile phone coverage.

Day Pack

Waterproof Jacket Waterproof overpants Sturdy footwear (well worn in) Water bottle (minimum 2 litres) Woollen beanie/balaclava Woollen jumper/thermal jacket Map/Compass Gloves Sunhat Sunscreen Toilet paper and trowel Personal first aid kit Whistle Mobile phone

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Overnight walking in addition to day walking items

Pack (with liner) Sleeping bag Sleeping mat Tent Plate/bowl/mug/cutlery Stove and fuel Torch Trousers Thermal underwear Personal Locator Beacon

Personal First Aid kit

Triangular bandage & fasteners 1 10cm elastic bandage 1 medium wound dressing Assorted adhesive dressing strips Paracetamol/Antiseptic Personal medications Moleskin or similar for blisters Insect repellent expensive it is worth trying it out before you buy it. In addition you can seek counsel from fellow club members and the sage like NPA bushwalk leaders who are able to offer valuable advice.

Try before you buy

Many shops that sell bushwalking and camping gear will hire equipment at reasonable rates. Since buying equipment can be

Nuts & Bolts

23

Nuts & Bolts

Bookings
Please give reasonable notice to leaders if you wish to join an activity, and verify all transport and meeting details. People leading activities for NPA do so on a voluntary basis and may decline any persons request to attend. The leaders permission must be obtained before inviting friends or bringing children on activities. Please follow any restrictions of the times at which leaders wish to be contacted.

Potential hazards on activities

Whilst walks vary greatly in difficulty, dangers such as poor weather, river crossings, rock climbing and other hazards can be encountered and cannot always be anticipated. Participants on NPA activities must ensure that they have adequate fitness and that they are suitably equipped. Participants must also make sure that they are aware of the conditions likely to be encountered and have adequate experience for the activity which they intend to undertake. If in doubt, participants should speak with the leader or NPA Head Office for further information.

Cancellation of bookings
Please note that if you book a walk and then decide to cancel, you should let the walks leader know as soon as possible.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Insurance and trial walks

National Parks Association NSW (NPA) members are covered by NPA walks insurance during NPA walks and other activities. It is NPA policy that prospective members are extended this cover for 2 trial walks too.

Activities specifically designed for young children (under 8 years) are noted with a good for kids icon.

In the event of an emergency

Bushwalking Rescue Squad (BWRS) Step 1 Phone 0427 455 897 Step 2 Wait for it to connect. It takes around 10 seconds to connect so do not hang up! Then it will ring through a few phone diversions. For further details check out their website - http://www.bwrs.org.au/

Liability
Every person participating in an activity conducted by the National Parks Association of NSW does so as a volunteer in all respects, and as such accepts responsibility for any personal injury, however incurred. The Association, its office bearers and walks leaders cannot accept liability in regard to any injury or damage suffered by any person while engaged in any NPA activity.

National Parks Association (NSW)

Level 2, 5 Wilson Street, Newtown 2042 Phone- 02 9299 0000 E mail [email protected] www.npansw.org.au

Participation by children
Children under 18 years old are welcome to attend NPA activities only: If accompanied and supervised by their own parent/carer at all times; and If accepted prior to the day by the activity leader, who will determine whether the activity is appropriate for them.

Safety Advice

25

Safety Advice
NPA aims to provide activities that are safe. Our record of activities since our founding in 1957 shows that the occurrence of accidents is statistically insignificant. However

Photo: BWSR

there are plainly hazards aplenty in the bush. It is due in part to the skill of our leaders and the commonsense of our walkers generally that we have so few accidents.

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NPA Bushwalking Handbook

Heres a list of some recommended Dos and Donts

DO
Tell someone where you are going and what time you expect to be back. Let that person know when you do return. Sign the NPA Attendance form before the activity and provide an emergency contact number. Inform the leader of any medical ailments he/she should be aware of. Learn to use a compass and a map NPA runs regular navigation courses. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear see Equipment chapter. Carry a personal first aid kit with you - see Equipment chapter. Take a mobile phone and a whistle with you. Take waterproof matches and some spare food in case of delays. Always take some cold snack food such as dried fruit, nuts or chocolate for quick energy. Stay put if you get separated from the group. Blow your whistle or call you leader on your mobile phone rather than guessing where they might be. In case of emergency contact the Bushwalkers Rescue Squad (BWRS) contact details on page 24

DONT
Overestimate your abilities. Split up your walking group (except for below) during the trip. There are safety in numbers. Leave an injured person alone in the bush. A walking group of 3 or more will allow one to look after the injured while the others go for help. Keep moving when lost. Find a campsite nearby with water that will be visible from a helicopter. Walk with less than 4 unless you are carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) then a group of 3 is adequate.

How to Join

27

How to join?
The full NPA program is only available to members. Join NPA today to bushwalk in safety, (and see how easy it is to protect natural NSW). We offer two types of membership payment: monthly and annual. With monthly membership, you donate an amount of your choice each month, from $10.00 per month. This gives you all the benefits of membership, plus it's tax deductible (excluding the first $10 each year). You may choose to regularly donate a larger amount it's your decision! With annual membership, you pay an annual fee every year. Membership is for one year from the date of joining NPA.

Membership Fees
Adult Household (more than one person) Concession Household Concession $65.00 $75.00 $35.00 $50.00

You can join online using our secure form - Alternately, contact NPA on 9299 000, and we can take your details over the phone.