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 riders take advantage of the picturesque rolling hills and lazy back roads that adorn the region.

 Apart from South Gippsland Walking and Adventure club cycling activities, there are several non-affiliated cycling groups in our area that run regular weekly rides. The two main groups riding in the South Gippsland area that are most likely to appeal to South Gippsland Walking and Adventure Club members are:

1. Easy Riders as the name implies, this group offers rides of a more casual nature, usually on rail trails with an occasional road ride or a mix of both. Most rides are around 30 to 40 kms with a social coffee break at a popular venue.

To check out this group search; “Easy riders-Meeniyan the turning point” scroll down for the calendar or contact Kerry on 0428 647 440 or Mary-Anne 0408 525 434.

2. Bike Riders this group usually runs two rides per week. Monday’s – a longer more challenging ride of around 60 kms. Thursday’s-usually a shorter more social relaxed ride of around 40 kms. Both days are predominately a mix of road and rail trails both of which could be sealed or gravel.

Bike Riders usually have a coffee break at the midpoint, this group operates via “WhatsApp” for more information please contact Graham on 0409 647 560. In addition to the above South Gippsland Walking and Adventure Club members are encouraged to propose a cycling activity via the club website and/or contact the cycling coordinator. These can include short rides, day rides, cycling trips away and base camps which may include other activities associated with the club.

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.