1 Jan (Thu) 2026: GROSE RIVER FLOAT (M) Changed due to low river levels - Ring in the New Year with a wander of the Burralow and Cabbage Tree Creek area of the Grose Valley. 3km walk down to the Grose River from Mountain ave, Yarramundi. We will then head upstream to the junction of Cabbage Tree Creek and rockhop/swim in the creeks around Paterson Hill. Return the same way. Limit: 15. Map: kurrajong.

3 Jan (Sat) 2026: MONKEY ROPES CREEK PLUS SWIMMING HOLE (M) THIS WALK IS NOW FULL. Monkey Ropes Creek is a pleasant rainforest creek, cool and shady on a hot day. From near the start of the Nepean Lookout fire trail, we make our way down a side creek to the "y" in Monkey (Penrith map 745551), then down stream, ending at the big pool on Erskine Creek for a leisurely lunch and swim. Return via the Pisgah Rock track - about a 170 meter ascent. Note: involves some mildly exposed rock scrambling that most people find manageable. Not a long walk. About 5 kilometers if we leave a car at the Pisgah Rock parking area. This is a combined Springwood and Upper Blue Mountains walk. Limit: 8. Map: Penrith.

3 Jan 2026 (Sat) 2026: BEDFORD CREEK (H-Exp) A wander of a section of Bedford Creek. This is a very pretty area with massive blue gums and incredible wildlife, starting and finishing at Murphys Glen. This walk will consist mostly of wading/swimming along a sandy section of the creek for about 3.7kms. Descend to the creek via Bedford Creek FT to the ford where we enter the water and head downstream. Exiting just before the junction of Coolana Brook, where a walking track will take us back to Murphys Glen. Total 8.3kms. Rated 'Hard' as it is mostly off track and the whole day in the water. Will require a springsuit, watershoes and drybag. Limit: 8. Map: Jamison.

Introduction Walk

4 Jan 2026 (Sun) 2026: MARTINS LOOKOUT CIRCUIT SOUTH SPRINGWOOD (E) Drive out towards Martins Lookout and leave some cars opposite Batman Park. Walk down to Glenbrook Creek and follow it up to the junction with the Magdala Track. Lovely swimming opportunities along this section if people wish. Go up to past Martins Falls and the Blue Pool to beautiful Magdala Falls where there's another swimming pool but much colder. Continue up until we meet Batman Track back to the cars. About 6 km. Much of the track has recently been revamped. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood.

5-6 Jan (Mon - Tue) 2026: BURNT HOLE CREEK KANANGRA BOYD (E-M-Exp) This walk will start on the 5th or 6th depending on the weather and have a short second day. The goal is to go down and camp at a pleasant spot by the creek and explore the remaining stretch I haven't seen. This will involve leaving the car at the gate of the firetrail near MT Werong, so a reasonable drive in, walk in via an old firetrial to the north and Wattle Creek, then descend to choose a camp site and explore more of the Burnt Hole Creek. We will climb out first thing the second day and go have a look at Ruby Falls before heading back pretty early. This walk has had an ill fate with weather etc so the new year will change the luck. Limit: 5. Map: Gurnang.

Introduction Walk

11 Jan 2026 (Sun) 2026: HAWKESBURY HEIGHTS SHAWS CREEK (EM) Another beautiful swimming hole. The walk down is only about a km but the 2nd half is steep and can be slippery with dead leaves. Walking poles are good. There's also a slot between rocks we have to negotiate down and then up but we'll take it as slow as needed and help each other. The pool is great with a waterfall and a rock to jump off. Above the pool is the best camp cave I have seen complete with hammock. We'll explore up the creek a bit as well where there are more nice pools which are a bit warmer. Spend as long as we want down there. Children welcome. Return the same way. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood.

11 Jan 2026 (Sun) 2026: KAYAK DEVLIN ROAD CASTLEREAGH (E) An easy paddle of approx 2 hours. Starting from Devlin Road Castlereagh and paddling towards Yarramundi - morning tea on a sandy beach and return. For those wanting more of a paddle there is the option to head up river once we return to a launch site. Must have own hard shell kayak and PFD. Limit: 8. Map: Penrith.

11 Jan 2026 (Sun) 2026: RIVER CAVES (E) River Caves on Newnes Plateau. Did you miss out on Yvonne's trip? This is one of the most beautiful walks in the Blue Mountains. 2 km walk in and out. And a wet walk between the closed-in walls of the short canyon, with the sun shining off the ripples and reflecting on the walls. You will get wet, quite likely up to the waist or further, depending how low your waist is. You can leave your backpack outside, or use a waterproof bag inside it. Bring lunch and maybe a towel. Limit: 8. Map: Rock Hill.

14 Jan (Wed) 2026: YARRAMUNDI (M) Walk up the Grose River along the Engineers' track to the gauging station, find a waterhole suitable for swimming. Once upon a time, a plan to run a rail line up the Grose valley was conceived. The engineers who went to suss out this brilliant scheme concluded "No", but enjoyed themselves so much in the Grose valley that they hung out there gathering data, fishing, swimming, etc. for quite a long time. The report took ages. The track is a bit overgrown. Early start, walk for about 5 hours, 9-10 kms, 120 mtrs the main climb. YMCA track to river then upstream. Bring swimmers and morning tea. Limit: 8. Map: Kurrajong.

15 Jan (Thu) 2026: SYDNEY HARBOUR (M) NB/ This walk is now fully subscribed, so further booking will have to go on a waiting list. Spit Bridge to Manly: A classic Sydney coastal walk. Along the way we will enjoy some great harbour views; some impressive coastal vegetation; and some aboriginal rock art. There will also be a number of safe swimming options. For people who regularly participate in my Thursday walks note that I have graded this walk medium. Distance is around 10kms and there are some short but steep ascents. While we would be hopeful of getting some sea breeze, allow that the weather could be warm to hot. Limit: 15. Map: Sydney Heads.

Introduction Walk

17 Jan 2026 (Sat) 2026: GLENBROOK NP CRAYFISH POOL (EM) Drive out towards Red Hands Cave. Walk down to Kanuka Brook and up to the beautiful pool and waterfall. Stay as long as we wish. Return the same way. Less than 3 km but there are some scrambles. Walking up the creek to the pool is sometimes rough with a few boulders to negotiate but nothing that a slow pace and friendly help can't overcome. It's well worth the effort. Children welcome. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood.

18 Jan 2026 (Sun) 2026: LANDCARE BLAND RD SPRINGWOOD (E) Spend the morning giving back to our beautiful bush. Just come whenever you can even if it's only once or twice a year. Bland Rd is right at the head of Birdwood Gully so weeds we remove from here will benefit the whole creek system down to the Grose River. We're mainly removing privet - big, medium and small to allow the lovely native ferns and trees to grow. It's led by council worker Tracy Abbas who provides tuition and equipment. We've been here for a year now and the difference is incredible. I've personally pulled up or cut and painted 1000s of privet. Council have allocated money to fix up the storm water drain, catch rubbish coming down from the highway and stabilize the creek line. Soon we can start planting as well. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

20-26 Jan 2026 (Tue-Mon) 2026: SNOWY MOUNTAINS WITH FLOWERS (M) The plan: Jan 20 Drive to snowys, camp Island bend Jan 21 Munyang to Whites River, camp Whites river hut Jan 22 Dicky cooper bogong from Schlink Pass, camp Schlink hilton Jan 23 Day walk to Gungarten, camp Schlink hilton Jan 24 Exploration - hut ruin then pack up and return to whites River hut, camp Whites River Hut Jan 25 Follow the Disappointment Spur back to cars Return home Limit: 9. Map: Geehi dam, Jagungal, Perisher Valley.

26 Jan 2026 (Mon) 2026: SYDNEY HARBOUR (E) AUSTRALIA DAY. Celebrate Australia Day with a classic harbour side walk. Balmoral Beach to the zoo. Bring something with an Australian flavour to share for morning tea. Wear or display something with an Australian theme. Lots of swims along the way. Limit: 10. Map: Google.

28 Jan 2026 (Wed) 2026: KAYAK - LAKE WALLACE (E-M) A 2-3 hour paddle around Lake Wallace with a break for morning tea. Must have own hard shell kayak and PFD. Lake Wallace is approx 10-15 mins past Lithgow with an easy site for launching kayaks. Limit: 8. Map: Lithgow.

Introduction Walk

31 Jan (Sat) 2026: GLENBROOK - DUCK HOLE (EM) A relatively easy walk down to the Duck Hole on Glenbrook Creek of 4 km return. The duck Hole is a beautiful big swimming hole with a sandy beach. After a swim, we'll walk another 10 minutes further down the creek to a long sustained swimming section. Return the same way. Children welcome. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood.

2 Feb 2026 (Mon) 2026: SPRINGWOOD (E) General Meeting: Catering by John H. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

5 Feb 2026 (Thu) 2026: LANDCARE NORTH LEURA (E) Join Blue Mountains council for a morning of landcare on the beautiful Brahma Kumaris property on Mt Hay Rd. Often we work on weeds in or along the pretty creek. This flows into Govetts Creek and hence into the National Park and eventually down to the Grose River. All instruction and equipment supplied. Morning tea supplied in the gorgeous Stone Cottage and you can stay for a yummy vegetarian complimentary lunch as well. Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba.

7 Feb (Sat) 2026: WALK THE WOLLANGAMBE PART 2 (H-Exp) We walk in along formed trails to Centre of the Universe, then divert down to Submarine Rock. Here we’ll enter the Wollangambe River and wade about a 2-3km stretch of the river before exiting and making our way back to the Centre of the Universe and returning the way we came. This is an exploratory walk and I don’t know what this stretch of the river might be like. The part we did last year was about thigh to chest deep (after heavy rain) with large river pebbles and a sandy floor. Happy to chat to anyone thinking about coming who isn’t sure. Please call me to discuss on 9624 4637 if you haven’t walked with me before. About 13.5km all up with a few steep climbs. Limit: 8. Map: Wollangambe.

8 Feb (Sun) 2026: MARTINS LOOKOUT TO GLENBROOK CREEK SWIMMING (E) Swimming in Glenbrook Creek. Bring the whole family and friends. A steep walk down from Martins Lookout in South Springwood to a beautiful sandy beach and swimming hole on Glenbrook Creek with a sandy beach. The pool is long enough to do laps and there are rocks to jump off. Spend as long there as you wish. About 1.5 km return Limit: 20. Map: Springwood.

8-15 Feb 2026 (Sun-Sun) 2026: CHARLOTTE PASS (E-M-H) THIS ACTIVITY IS NOW FULL. Join us for the 5th annual February Snowies Trip. Not just walks, we have found excellent kayaking on Lake Jindabyne, some great mountain bike rides, horse riding, and a range of walks from 2 hours to all day. Bring or hire your kayak or bike (or both). Comfortable accommodation in a private ski lodge in the heart of the Kosciuszko National Park. Self catering (group meals) and we have to clean up before we leave. We are within walking distance of the 10 highest peaks in Australia, plus lots of slightly lower peaks. Cost tba but last year was around $440 per person for the week, and you are asked to supply (part of) an evening meal for all our attendees. Please bring some cash to re-imburse drivers if you car-pool. Entertainment includes Twister, Trivia, jigsaw, pool, table tennis, karioke (?!). Bring a chess set. We will be occupying the West wing of the lodge. We will also need leaders to create and run various daily programs. Limit: 24 subject to room availability. Map: Perisher Valley, Geehi River, Koscuiszko. Lynne and John Hodson 0435534154 jhodsonmail@gmail.com. Limit: 25. Map: Geehi.

14 Feb (Sat) 2026: HAT HILL CANYON (H) Hat Hill Canyon is a gem of a canyon in Blackheath. On this trip we will do all three sections of the canyon, so there will be several compulsory swims, but no abseils. There are pretty creek sections and cascades as well as lots of log scrambling, rock hopping and wading. A short wetsuit and helmet is recommended and grippy shoes such as Volleys are required. You'll also need to waterproof your gear well to keep it dry during the swims and deep wades. It's a suitable first time canyon, but rated H for the length and regular scrambles and swims. About 10km. Bring morning tea, lunch and snacks. Limit: 8. Map: Mt Wison.

15 Feb 2026 (Sun) 2026: LANDCARE BLAND RD SPRINGWOOD (E) Spend the morning giving back to our beautiful bush. Just come whenever you can even if it's only once or twice a year. Bland Rd is right at the head of Birdwood Gully so weeds we remove from here will benefit the whole creek system down to the Grose River. We're mainly removing privet - big, medium and small to allow the lovely native ferns and trees to grow. It's led by council worker Tracy Abbas who provides tuition and equipment. We've been here for a year now and the difference is incredible. I've personally pulled up or cut and painted 1000s of privet. Council have allocated money to fix up the storm water drain, catch rubbish coming down from the highway and stabilize the creek line. Soon we can start planting as well. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

Introduction Walk

22 Feb (Sun) 2026: SOUTH LAWSON 5 WATERFALLS (E) One of the best very short waterfalls walks. Only 3 km round walk to 5 different, beautiful waterfalls in cool ferny gullies. At Cataract Falls, which is really a series of falls, we can get wet before we walk out. Spent time enjoying the ambiance. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

2 Mar 2026 (Mon) 2026: SPRINGWOOD (E) General Meeting: Catering by Glen W. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

4 Mar (Wed) 2026: DARWINS WALK WENTWORTH FALLS. WOMEN ONLY (E) Part of the Women's Week walk program run by Bushwalking NSW. Sorry fellows. See my walk Darwins Walk to The conservation Hut on the 22nd March. Meet the 8.25 train from Central and start from here walking the newly completed Darwins Walk which follows Jamison Creek to the top of Wentworth Falls past pretty Weeping Rock and other smaller falls and overhangs. Return the same way. Limit: 20. Map: Katoomba.

5 Mar 2026 (Thu) 2026: LANDCARE NORTH LEURA (E) Join Blue Mountains council for a morning of landcare on the beautiful Brahma Kumaris property on Mt Hay Rd. Often we work on weeds in or along the pretty creek. This flows into Govetts Creek and hence into the National Park and eventually down to the Grose River. All instruction and equipment supplied. Morning tea supplied in the gorgeous Stone Cottage and you can stay for a yummy vegetarian complimentary lunch as well Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba.

7 Mar (Sat) 2026: FAULCONBRIDGE TO SPRINGWOOD VIA SASSAFRAS CREEK (E-M) Women’s Week Walk Bushwalking NSW A pleasant walk through the valleys joining Faulconbridge and Springwood. Commencing at Faulconbridge Station we join the recently reopened Victory track. The walk follows Sassafras Creek past Clarinda Falls in a cool shaded valley, returning with a 160m climb up Sassafras Gully Track to finish at Springwood Station where we can catch a train back to our starting point. Only 4 places available for SBC members so get in quick! 12 places for others to try bushwalking as part of Bushwalking NSW promotion. Limit: 4. Map: Springwood 1:25000.

15 Mar 2026 (Sun) 2026: LANDCARE BLAND RD SPRINGWOOD (E) Spend the morning giving back to our beautiful bush. Just come whenever you can even if it's only once or twice a year. Bland Rd is right at the head of Birdwood Gully so weeds we remove from here will benefit the whole creek system down to the Grose River. We're mainly removing privet - big, medium and small to allow the lovely native ferns and trees to grow. It's led by council worker Tracy Abbas who provides tuition and equipment. We've been here for a year now and the difference is incredible. I've personally pulled up or cut and painted 1000s of privet. Council have allocated money to fix up the storm water drain, catch rubbish coming down from the highway and stabilize the creek line. Soon we can start planting as well. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

21-22 Mar (Sat-Sun) 2026: GNW GIRRAKOOL PICNIC AREA TO SOMERSBY FALLS (M) ***This walk is still looking a bit iffy as parts of the track are still closed. A decision will be made in the preceding weeks.*** This would make a great introductory overnight hike and is also suitable for older children. Gear can be borrowed from the club with advanced notice. Car shuffle required. Day 1 - 7km - We head into the bush from the Girrakool picnic area down Piles Creek to Mooney Mooney Creek. We cross the old Mooney Mooney bridge and will camp overnight at the Mooney Creek campsite south (or north). Plenty of time for a spot of fishing to catch your dinner. Day 2 - 7km - We continue to follow the GNW along Mooney Mooney Creek before detouring off to Somersby Falls. This should be a pretty chill overnight walk at a relaxed pace with plenty of time for photography and exploration. Total cumulative ascent 551m descent 448m. Limit: 8. Map: Gosford and Gunderman 1:25000.

Introduction Walk

22 Mar (Sun) 2026: GRANT CLIFF TOP WALK - PART 1 DARWINS WALK TO CONSERVATION UT (E) Take some cars to the Conservation Hut and start walking at Wilson Park where Darwins Walk begins. Follow it to the top of the falls and pop up to Rocket Point [optional]. Then follow the Grant Cliff Top Walk via the Undercliff/Overcliff Walks popping down beautiful Den Fenella. At the other end we'll go to the lookout over Empress Falls before going up to the Conservation Hut. About 6 to 7 km on good tracks but with lots of steps Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

22-27 Mar (Sun - Fri) 2026: CURRARONG NEAR JERVIS BAY (E-M, Social) Arrive Sunday and check out on Friday -avoiding crowds. A now traditional short holiday at a popular location - where you can do as much or as little as you wish. In 2024 we had 27 booked and in 2025 there were 37 members and guests. In 2026 there may be more. Accommodation options include tents, caravans and cabins at Holiday Haven Currarong. Enjoy socialising, sparkling amenities, a nice pool, putput golf and table tennis opportunities as well as swimming, canoeing, coastal and forest walks plus drive to but off-road bike rides. Grocery resupply, fuel and dining experiences may be limited so BYO. Limit: 50. Map: Currarong and surrounding maps.

24-31 Mar (Tue - Tue) 2026: VICTORIAN HIGHLANDS: WANGARATTA (E-M, cycling) Annual SBC Big Ride. This will be our 17th annual ride comprising this time one camp of 8 days again in Wangaratta, close to the scenic highlands. Much to see and explore, similar and in addition to last time in and around Wangaratta with rides on the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail likely up to Beechworth, down to Milawa, the King Valley and many National Park and wetlands areas. Daily loop rides of typically 45 - 80 km with some hills. Ride routes to be chosen and advised beforehand. Our chosen venue is the Painters Island Caravan Park, see paintersislandcaravanpark.com.au for details and phone Kylie 03 5721 3380 soon for a direct booking. The number of cabins available is limited. There is a $100 REGISTRATION FEE to cover some costs, a group dinner and the remainder donated to two conservation groups. After registering for the ride details will be sent of the account for payment of the $100 fee. Limit: 25. Map: Northern Victoria.

Introduction Walk

29 Mar (Sun) 2026: GRAND CLIFF TOP WALK - PART 2 (E) Gordon Falls to the Conservation Hut. After leaving some cars at the Conservation Hut, we'll start walking at Gordon Falls Picnic Area taking in the Falls and Lookout first before heading down to the Pool of Siloam. Pass Golf Links Lookout, along the escarpment, some road walking, past the Fairmont Resort, down to cross Lillians Bridge which crosses over Empress Canyon and up to the Conservation Hut. 6 km on good tracks but with lots of steps. Those with energy to spare can go down and up the stunning Valley Of The Waters past numerous waterfalls and cascades. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

29 Mar 2026 (Sun) 2026: ROGAINE MT VICTORIA (M) This Explorergaine is the first 6-hour rogaine of the year, at Mt Victoria and Mt York. It will be mostly on bush tracks. The event has a strong historical theme and is also a fundraiser for the Australian Himalayan Foundation. The course explores the first routes (known to Europeans) off the western side of the Blue Mountains, dating back to the first "discovery" exploration by Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson in 1813, as well as Cox, Lockyer, and many others as they forged the first roads. There are outstanding views over the Megalong Valley, Hartley and west to the Great Divide. Expect a surprisingly complex choice of bush tracks both close to the Hash House and for the fit and strong down to Hartley Vale. This event has something for everyone. The course setters are planning 50+ checkpoints. Whether you’re a seasoned rogainer or a newcomer looking to explore a new area this is an event steeped in history and not to be missed. Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba .

2 Apr 2026 (Thu) 2026: LANDCARE NORTH LEURA (E) Join Blue Mountains council for a morning of landcare on the beautiful Brahma Kumaris property on Mt Hay Rd. Often we work on weeds in or along the pretty creek. This flows into Govetts Creek and hence into the National Park and eventually down to the Grose River. All instruction and equipment supplied. Morning tea supplied in the gorgeous Stone Cottage and you can stay for a yummy vegetarian complimentary lunch as well Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba.

19 Apr 2026 (Sun) 2026: LANDCARE BIRDWOOD GULLY SPRINGWOOD (E) Spend the morning giving back to our beautiful bush. Just come whenever you can even if it's only once or twice a year. Bland Rd is right at the head of Birdwood Gully so weeds we remove from here will benefit the whole creek system down to the Grose River. We're mainly removing privet - big, medium and small to allow the lovely native ferns and trees to grow. It's led by council worker Tracy Abbas who provides tuition and equipment. We've been here for a year now and the difference is incredible. I've personally pulled up or cut and painted 1000s of privet. Council have allocated money to fix up the storm water drain, catch rubbish coming down from the highway and stabilize the creek line. Soon we can start planting as well. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

27 Apr-11 May 2026 (Mon - Mon) 2026: PERU (M-H) PERU - CUSCO: Peru offers a package that can be matched by few other places: - spectacular and varied scenery; "off the charts" biodiversity; a unique and vivid culture that draws on Spanish influences and older indigenous traditions; world renowned archaeological sites; and one of the world's great cuisines. The Cusco region of Peru has some of the most beautiful and iconic walks in the world. My daughter, who lives in Peru, has complied two possible itineraries: - Day Itinerary 1 Itinerary 2 1 Arrive Cusco Same 2 Cusco – afternoon walking tour Same 3 Cusco – visit Sacsayhuaman Same 4 Cusco - walk to Moon temple and Same Inkilltambo ruins 5 Practice Walk into Sacred Valley Sacred Valley. Pisaq; Moras and Moray; Ollantaytambo - Chincheros to Urquillos Inca Trail night in Ollantaytambo or Huchuy Qosqo walk. Night in Sacred Valley 6 Sacred Valley.Moras and Moray; Camino Inca (Machu Picchu trek) – first day Ollantaytambo. Night in Ollantaytambo 7 Camino Inca (Machu Picchu trek) – first day Camino Inca (Machu Picchu trek) – second day 8 Camino Inca (Machu Picchu trek) – second day Cusco 9 Cusco Day 1 of 3 day trip – Vinicunca or Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. Night in Pitumarca or Checacupe 10 Day 1 of 2 day trip- Quillarumiyoc, Chonta Condor Lookout. Night in Mollepata Day 2 of 3 day trip - walk to Waqra Pukara. Night in Pitumarca or Checacupe 11 Day 2 of 2 day trip -walk to Humantay Lake. Day 3 of 3 day trip - 7 lagunas de Ausangate. Return to Cusco Return to Cusco 12 Cusco Same 13 Day 1 of Ausangate trek, staying lodges Day 1 of Lares trek 14 Day 2 of Ausangate trek, staying lodges Day 2 of Lares trek 15 Day 3 of Ausangate trek Day 3 of Lares trek People contemplating coming on this trip should be aware that walking in the Cusco region, while rewarding, can also be challenging. You will need to deal with high altitudes - Cusco itself is 3400m and on some walks we will be consistently above 4000m and on occasions at 5000m. The weather, particularly at higher altitudes, is changeable and can vary from warm to very cold. On some walks we will be dealing with sustained ascents and descents. Majority of walks will be professionally guided. On overnight walks we will be using porters or mules or staying in huts/lodges so amount of weight you will need to carry will be limited. Also please note at this stage dates are provisional. Shortly I hope to be able to confirm dates and provide more information on costs, accommodation options and walk gradings. Once interest is gauged, I will arrange an information evening. In the meantime, any questions email me or phone me 0415 526 252. Limit: 12. Map: .

7 May 2026 (Thu) 2026: LANDCARE NORTH LEURA (E) Join Blue Mountains council for a morning of landcare on the beautiful Brahma Kumaris property on Mt Hay Rd. Often we work on weeds in or along the pretty creek. This flows into Govetts Creek and hence into the National Park and eventually down to the Grose River. All instruction and equipment supplied. Morning tea supplied in the gorgeous Stone Cottage and you can stay for a yummy vegetarian complimentary lunch as well Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba.

16 May (Sat) 2026: THE OAKS-WOODY PEAR DAM-BREAKFAST CREEK (M-H-Exp) Get some navigation practise in before NavShield 2026. We will start at the Oaks Picnic area and head out along The Oaks Fire trail. Leaving the track we’ll navigate down the spur past Woody Pear Dam to Breakfast Creek for morning tea. We navigate up the spur to join the fire trail on Pisgah Ridge before again leaving the track down another spur to a different section of Breakfast Creek where we’ll break for lunch. Up another spur after crossing the creek to join a fire trail which will take us back to the Oaks and our cars. 10.5km, roughly 5 hours, cumulative climbs 313m (longest 170m). Please call me before signing on if you haven’t walked with me before on 9624 4637. Limit: 12. Map: Penrith 1:25000.

17 May 2026 (Sun) 2026: LANDCARE BLAND RD SPRINGWOOD (E) Spend the morning giving back to our beautiful bush. Just come whenever you can even if it's only once or twice a year. Bland Rd is right at the head of Birdwood Gully so weeds we remove from here will benefit the whole creek system down to the Grose River. We're mainly removing privet - big, medium and small to allow the lovely native ferns and trees to grow. It's led by council worker Tracy Abbas who provides tuition and equipment. We've been here for a year now and the difference is incredible. I've personally pulled up or cut and painted 1000s of privet. Council have allocated money to fix up the storm water drain, catch rubbish coming down from the highway and stabilize the creek line. Soon we can start planting as well. on of walk: Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

21-27 May 2026 (Thu-Wed) 2026: ULURU - KINGS CANYON (E-M, camping) NOTE: This walk is now overbooked, we have 10 confirmed participants. However, there is scope for another leader to run this trip. Dates may change, depending on airfares. Jetstar flights to Uluru for these dates are $186 each way (at the moment). Hire car is around $200 a day, and camping is $30 a night. We've just done this trip and it worked perfectly. There is a camp kitchen, but the IGA is very expensive, bring food, snacks (and cooking utensils). Maybe group catering would be best. The plan would be: Day 1 - Arrive, set up camp, sunset with everyone else at Uluru viewing place Day 2 - Uluru cultural tour, walk around the rock Day 3 - Kata Tjuta - walk and lookouts Day 4 - Pack up, visit Curtin Springs and salt lake, continue to Kings Canyon Station, set up camp ($30/pp/night), walk to Kathleen Springs Day 5 - Kings canyon walk, Kings Canyon station Day 6 - Pack up, drive back to Yulara, Didgeridoo workshop, sunset viewing somewhere, field of light experience ($50) Camp at Yulara or book a cabin (if possible) Day 7 - Resort (camel farm, lookouts, etc) Limit: 8. Map: Watarrka National Park, Uluru/Ayers Rock SG52-08.

Introduction Walk

24 May (Sun) 2026: GRAND CLIFF TOP WALK PART 3 (E) Leave some cars at the top of Katoomba Cascades Reserve and go back to Gordon Falls Picnic area. Check out the falls before following the cliff top past numerous amazing lookouts, over Buttenshaw Bridge, to Leura Picnic Area. Go down Leura Cascades to views over Bridal Veil Falls. Then follow to clifftop to Echo Point and the Three Sisters and on to Katoomba Cascades. Here we do an optional short clifftop circuit to see Katoomba Falls properly. Scenic World is just around the corner but it's usually too busy to go there. However people, who are prepared to spend over $50 for a day ticket, can finish the day with the rides returning to the carpark via the fantastic Skyway. Over 8 km on well made tracks but with lots of steps. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

30-31 May (Sat - Sun) 2026: MOUNT MCAIRLY GAP SCOTTISH HIGHLAND GAMES N COOKOFF WEEKEND. (E-M-H-VH, Car Camping) So you are a bonny wee cook? Do you reckon your morning porridge is McExcellent?  Ramp it up against other bushwalking experts... and who knows…you may end up with the coveted golden spurtle!  Judgement by consumer Mcpplause meter.  As undisputed porridge royalty you might be able to take out both the traditional and the free style porridge categories! Otherwise, or regardless, throw your Macintosh into the ring for the camp oven dinner, poetry recitals, jokes, best accent, porridge n sporran race, sword dancing, spoon throwing, haggis and baking championships. Between culinary bouts Mount Airy is notable for excellent Mc grade walking and exploring.   An appreciation of scotch -er heritage will be heightened through imbibtion of single malt milkshakes. Huge kudos for the award winners!  Mcfancy dress is not compulsory but mccouraged. Ie byo wee argyle sporran, jocks, pipes, fife, deep-fried mars bar n tasting spoon or spurtle! Clowns and hamburgers are not welcome. Limit: 40. Map: Glen Alice.