South Gippsland

'Tuesday Walks' have evolved from an occasional mid week saunter to become one of our most popular events. Held every Tuesday, (weather and other circumstances permitting), the walks explore the local bush, beaches, rail trails and even local Gippsland townships anywhere from Phillip Island, to Mirboo North and Wilson's Promontory in the south.

The walks are designed to cater for all abilities and are usually of  8 - 12 km's in length and timed to finish around midday for coffee.

Would be walkers might find the following links to be useful: 

Link to Tips and Information for Walkers 

Emergency Medical and Contact Information

Day Walks are normally held over weekends and are typically longer and more challenging than the Tuesday Walk program.

The destinations are generally located within 1 - 1.5 hours drive and tend to be graded 'easy/medium' for reasonably fit and more experienced walkers who are able to complete a a distance of 15k+ km's. 

Cyclists are spoilt for choice. Not only does South Gippsland boast some of the finest rail trails in the State, but many rides take advantage of the picturesque rolling hills and lazy back roads that adorn the region. 

There are a number of informal , non affiliated cycling groups in our area that run regular weekly rides. Rather than try to run SGWAAC riders as a separate group it is simpler to participate with these groups, as a large number of our members already do. Plus after talking to the people concerned they are happy for us to join in .

Currently there are two main groups riding in the South Gippsland  area:

1. Easyriders - as the name implies , this group run casual rides of a more sedate nature , usually on rail trails with an occasional road ride or a mix. Most rides are around 30 - 40 km with a social coffee break at a popular cafe. To check out Easyriders - go to meeniyan.org.au - from the menu select Great Southern Rail Trail - scroll down to Meeniyan Easyriders for the latest rides. Conract Kerry on 0428 647440 or Zoe  on 0429 830307

2. The Lost Tribe (formerly the Coasters/B&B ( Bikes & Bakeries)) this group usually runs two rides per week - Mondays - a longer more challenging ride of around 60km . Thursdays - usually a shorter , more social relaxed ride or around 40km.

Both rides can be on road (mostly backroads), rail trails, gravel road or a mix. All rides usually have a coffee break about the midpoint . Contact Graham Clements on 0409 647560 if you would like to be a regular on the email list .

In addition to the above SGWAAC members are encouraged  to propose a cycling activity to be put on the website. This could include, short rides, day rides, cycling trips away and combined activity camps

See here for Cycling etiquette and other tips

Paddling and exploring the Gippsland waterways is an activity enjoyed by an enthusiastic and active group of members. 

Paddles are held on the second Saturday and the last Sunday or weekend of the month from September through until June, catering for all skill levels.  If you are new to this activity or would just like to try it, use one of the club kayaks (costs apply) and join us exploring the quiet waters of Powlett River, Lake Narracan, Blue Rock or even see the opening of the Swing Bridge over the Latrobe River at Sale. All paddle activities are weather dependent and venue subject to change at the discretion of the Paddle Co-ordinator.

Please register for paddling activities no later than the Wednesday midday prior to a paddle.  The Paddle Coordinator will confirm with those registered on the Wednesday evening that the paddle is proceeding and again the day prior to the scheduled paddle once a final weather check has been made.

Please arrive at the paddle venue at least 30 mins prior to departure time.  All paddles depart at 9:30am unless otherwise advised.

Paddle Requirements

Please ensure all your equipment is in working order before the paddle.

All participants must wear shoes whilst paddling, comfortable clothing with due regard for the forecast weather.  Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, light spray jacket that can go over your life jacket are recommended.  BYO snacks/lunch on the day and at least 600ml of drinking water.  A small basic first aid kit is a recommended piece of paddle equipment. 

Base Camps always prove to be very popular and well attended. Destinations can range from the likes of Mt Hotham, the Grampians, SA vineyards, Queensland and New Zealand; anywhere really

The camps inevitably incorpoarate a program of walking, cycling, exploring and social activities. Our Base Camps are sources of great merriment and camaraderie - many a reputation has been made on these outings. 

Overnight Hiking is both a very achievable and most rewarding activity. With the correct gear, some training, a sense of adventure and good company many, many opprotunites will beckon you.

Recent hikes have featured the Great Ocean Raod Walk, the challenging South Coast Track in Tasmaina, Sealers Cove, Mt Baw Baw and Ben Boyd NP

Meetings

The club meets monthly and are an excellent opportunity to view the club first hand and contribute to the workings of the club and activities program.

Other Activities is a 'catch all' for all the other things we do, be they adventures, skiing, club functions, training, volunteering to name but a few.

We are a gregarious community and social activities always feature as an integral part of our Club. Wineries, 'The Archies', theatre, Bastille Day, Melbourne Cup and anything else that comes to mind all regularly feature on our program.