Year: 2014

12 Month Celebration – Friday 29th August 2014

Posted on by Walking SA

It’s 12 months since the ‘new’ Walking SA was established. Come and celebrate the achievements of the past year!

6pm – 8pm
Friday 29th August 2014
Caledonian Hotel
219 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide

Finger food will be provided – but we ask that you buy your own drinks please.

The evening will also be a special opportunity to:

  • Farewell and thank Brian Goodhind, Administrative Officer of Walking SA
  • Welcome Mel Paull, new Executive Officer
  • Briefly outline plans for future activities

To assist with catering, please RSVP by Monday 25th August: office@walkingsa.org.au or phone (08) 8276 5090

Feedback sought on the Bushwalking Adventure Activity Standards (AAS)

Posted on by Walking SA

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The 2nd draft of the Bushwalking Adventure Activity Standards (AAS) is now open for comment.

To provided feedback visit the SA AAS Project Page. From here you can download a copy of the draft and provide feedback in two ways:

  1. in an email – please reference the relevant AAS sections – eg 3.2 Activity Plan
  2. download the word file and use track changes to record your feedback before attaching the file in a reply email.

Once you are ready to provide your feedback please email jemmar@serviceskillssa.com.au.

This 2nd draft review period runs for two weeks until Monday 28th July COB.

This project is being facilitated by Service Skills SA (SSSA) with support from Recreation SA and funding support from the Office for Recreation and Sport through the Sport and Recreation Development and Inclusion Program.

Opening of Family-Friendly Trail July 20, Jo Gapper Activity Park, Hillbank

Posted on by Walking SA

Flyer - Jo Gapper Launch 20th JulyOpal and City of Playford are celebrating the opening of the Jo Gapper Activity Park at Hillbank on Sunday 20 July 2014.

The day includes:

  • guided walks on the new family friendly trails
  • free healthy bbq
  • free games and activities for kids
  • dogs on leads welcome
  • tree planting

About the Trail

Starting at the playground the gravel path leads up to a look out, then following a fire track back around to the playground. There is a slight uphill section at the start and then it’s all down the hill again once you get to the lookout.

View trail info

Kidman Trailhead Guide, campsites for walking

Posted on by Walking SA

Kidman Trail campsite information for walkers and horse ridersHorse SA have released a trailhead information booklet for walkers, horse riders and cyclists for the Kidman Trail.

The guide details 13 campsites along the trail, including info about location, distance from previous campsite, photos and facilities.

You know us, we like good detailed info for people to get out and explore new places! Combine the guide with the official maps.

View the guide

State Budget includes two trail development projects

Posted on by Walking SA

Yesterday’s State Budget included allocation to two walking trail projects.

Project 1: Multi-day walking trail on Kangaroo Island

Walking the south-west coast of Kangaroo Island, Jeremy Carter IMG_8667$2.25m was allocated towards the first 50% of the proposed multi-day walking trail in the south west of the island. The trail will feature camping areas and will be constructed in five sections over two and a half years. This follows past work in developing a Kangaroo Island strategic plan and trail feasibility studies.

Project 2: Realignment of Heysen Trail along the South Coast

Tunkalilla Beach with Tunk Head beyond, Jeremy Carter IMG 4533$1.1m was allocated for the realignment and further development of the Heysen Trail along the southern coast of the Fleurieu Peninsula at Tunkalilla Beach. The expenditure is set for the June quarter, 2015.

The realignment will continue the trail along the spectacular southern coastline, over Tunk Head and along the cliffs of Balqhidder Station, avoiding the inland one-day trek around the station.

Verdun Bridge Feasibility Study Final Report

Posted on by Walking SA
The Pioneer Women’s Trail was completed in 2007 but remains incomplete near the Hills trailhead until the best location for a pedestrian/cycling bridge to span the Onkaparinga River can be determined. This bridge will then enable the trailhead to be located in Pioneer Park, Hahndorf.

The final report, including maps, images and plans can be viewed at walkingsa.org.au/verdunbridge.

The bridge on Sandow Road Reserve will provide strategic links to the Heysen Trail, the Amy Gillett trail and to the proposed trailhead at Pioneer Park, Hahndorf and will allow the Pioneer Women’s Trail to be completed from Silver Road to Hahndorf.

PLB_SandowURR_Bridgesite preview

The Pioneer Women’s Trail commemorates the pioneer women and girls who, soon after arriving in 1838, walked overnight from Hahndorf to hawk their produce in Adelaide. They continued to make this journey for almost two decades, leaving at midnight to walk 35 kilometres along a rough bush track. At 4.00 am they would reach a small stream in the foothills near Beaumont, wash their sore feet and tidy themselves before walking into Adelaide to hawk their produce. They would then purchase needles and thread, sugar, tea, tobacco for their menfolk and carry two bricks each to build a new church at Hahndorf.

Walking SA received a grant from the Office for Recreation & Sport SA (ORS) in 2004 for the planning and installation of the Pioneer Women’s Trail. The trailhead for the section of the Pioneer Women’s Trail completed in 2007 commences at Verdun.

The Bridge Feasibility Study recommends an optimal location for the bridge on Sandow Road, Verdun and an innovative and cost-effective bridge design.

A further grant from the Office for Recreation and Sport made under the Community Recreational and Sports Facilities Program in 2013 enabled Walking SA to engage an independent consultant, Meechi Road to explore the optimal site for a pedestrian/cycling bridge across the Onkaparinga River and to engage a bridge engineer, Christiane Husmann of Magryn Engineering, to prepare plans for a crossing at the preferred site.

The Bridge Feasibility Study recommends an optimal location for the bridge on Sandow Road, Verdun and an innovative and cost-effective bridge design. It also identifies the remaining challenges that lie ahead before bridge construction can proceed and before the Pioneer Women’s Trail can be completed to Hahndorf.

The challenge will be to attract sufficient funds

This feasibility study concluded that the bridge will be a cost effective addition to the Adelaide Hills Trails Network and will provide a safe crossing of the Onkaparinga River – especially as the peak of river flooding corresponds with the peak of walking activity. A cheaper, “fair weather” crossing such as a ford or stepping stones is also not recommended due to the proximity to the nearby Hills Christian School, Verdun. The bridge on Sandow Road Reserve will provide strategic links to the Heysen Trail, the Amy Gillett trail and to the proposed trailhead at Pioneer Park, Hahndorf and will allow the Pioneer Women’s Trail to be completed from Silver Road to Hahndorf. However several pinch points along Onkaparinga Valley Road between Sandow Road and the existing Silver Road trailhead are of concern and will need to be addressed. An easement from Heysen Road entrance to “The Cedars” through to Sandow Road Reserve – while not essential will eliminate the need to use the two short triangular sections of Redden Road currently used by the Heysen Trail. This possible easement will need to be negotiated by District Council of Mt Barker.

The challenge will be to attract sufficient funds from a future Community Recreation and Sport Facilities Program and other State and Federal Government grants, from Adelaide Hills Council and District Council of Mt Barker and from corporate sponsorship to bring Christiane Husmann’s bridge design to fruition and link the Pioneer Women’s Trail to the Adelaide Hills Trails Network.

The final report, including maps, images and plans can be viewed at walkingsa.org.au/verdunbridge.

View Full Report

John Eaton
Project Manager, Verdun Bridge Feasibility Study
Walking SA

Position Vacant – Executive Officer, Walking SA

Posted on by Walking SA

The Board seeks to employ an Executive Officer for Walking SA.

Walking SA is the not-for-profit peak body that leads, promotes and supports all forms of walking in South Australia, including walking for recreation, transport, health, wellbeing, organised events, adventure, environmental appreciation and fun experiences.

Our vision is to see more people walking more often.

Our members include walking clubs, informal groups, individuals and organisations whose aims and objectives align with those of Walking SA.

The Executive Officer reports to the Board Chairperson and is responsible for growing, leading and coordinating the activities of the organisation and to champion and represent the organisation to the wider community, including other peak recreational bodies, government departments and other key stakeholders.

Key duties include, working closely with the Board to plan and implement strategies for the growth and sustainability of the organisation, financial planning, marketing and website maintenance and maintaining a positive, healthy and safe working environment.

We require someone with leadership, management and financial skills with a passion for promoting walking to the community. Excellent interpersonal and problem solving skills are a must as well as demonstrated experience in securing funding and managing multiple- agency projects.

Remuneration of $30,000 per annum for approximately 20hrs per week; plus superannuation; times and location are negotiable.

More information about Walking SA can be found at: www.walkingsa.org.au.

Please forward your resume providing evidence of your skills and experience and the contact details for 3 referees to Ms Cate Mettam by email to cate.mettam@walkingsa.org.au or for any brief telephone enquiries on: 0428 841 715.

Applications must be received by COB Friday 20th June 2014.

Download Position Description

Opening of 53km extension of the Lavender Federation Trail to Eudunda

Posted on by Walking SA

Official Opening
Sunday 28th September 2014
Extension of 53km from Truro to Eudunda
Invitation to clubs to organise celebration walks

New section of the Lavendar Federation Trail from Truro to Eudunda

South Australian Recreation Trails Inc (SARTI) is inviting walking clubs and organisations with an interest in walking to join them at Eudunda to celebrate the achievement. We would like clubs to organise walks along the new trail, with the formal opening at 1pm.

The Lavender Federation Trail is a long distance walking trail which has been under development for 14 years. It is intended to link Murray Bridge and Clare. The trail winds its way from Murray Bridge to Truro visiting Monarto, Tungkillo Springton, Keyneton and Moculta. The new section from Truro to the boundary of the Mid Murray Council was funded jointly by the Mid Murray Council and the Friends of the Heysen Trail. The section to Eudunda was funded by the Regional Council of Goyder.

Contact SARTI

Pioneer Women’s Trail Walk / Run

Posted on by Walking SA

Pioneer Womens Trail, Hahndorf to Beaumont House
Run/Walk
4 options: 6km, 12km, 19km or 26km
Sunday 18th May

Pioneer Womens Trail logo
This year marks the 175th anniversary of the first walk by the Hahndorf Pioneer women.

The South Australian Road Runners Club (SARRC) are organising the fifth annual Pioneer Women’s Trail Run / Walk in partnership with the National Trust of South Australia.

To mark this historic occasion, the walk will conclude with a Community Event at Beaumont House. Open House will be held from 11.00 am to 3.00 pm. Entertainment will be provided by the Hahndorf Town Band, Uraidla Concert Band, Hills Folk Group, and Ink Pot Arts. Ink Pot Arts students and artists will be providing interactive opportunities for the public as they walk along the trail. A ʻMade it Marketʼ of quality handmade crafts by Adelaide makers will also be held, organised by Rachel McElwee of the Hahndorf Academy as well as a small produce market.

The Pioneer Women’s Trail walk/run event has four distance options:

  • 26km,
  • 19km,
  • 12km and
  • 6km.

The finish line for all distances is at Beaumont House. Buses are available to take you from Beaumont house to the start of your chosen event.

Register online to secure your place or register on the day.

Undertake a portion of the entire walk on another day using the details and map in our Find a Place to Walk directory.

Read more about this event

3 new walks in our Find a Place to Walk directory

Posted on by Walking SA

We’ve published three new entries from contributors in our Find a Place to Walk directory.

Add your favourite walks. Clubs, organisations and businesses are welcome to add walks.

Banrock Station Wetland Walking Trails

Banrock Station Wetland Walking Trails

Three walking trails at Banrock Station through wetlands with abundant wildlife.

Suitable for children and for mobility impaired.

Spend a few hours exploring, then enjoy a beverage at the cafe.

View walks detail

Aldgate Valley Nature Walk

Aldgate Valley Nature Walk

A lovely, gentle 6km walk from Aldgate to Mylor (12km return) on footpaths (not roads) highlighting the work of the Aldgate Valley Landcare Group in rehabilitating and reconnecting native bushland on private and public land.

Discover the Valley of the Bandicoots.

Half of the walk is dog-friendly.

Why not make an autumn day of it with the Aldgate Pump Hotel and Aldgate cafes at one end and the Harvest Cafe in Mylor at the other.

View walk detail

Encounter Bikeway (shared path)

Encounter Bikeway (shared path)

Located on the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula, approximately one hours drive from Adelaide.

The Encounter Bikeway is an on-road and shared trail that links the four coastal towns of the City of Victor Harbor and the Riverport Town of Goolwa, via the coastal towns of Port Elliot and Middleton.

There is range of riding/walking distances are available, making it suitable for all ages and levels of fitness. The Bikeway is suitable for use by cyclists, walkers, skaters, rollerbladers and is wheelchair accessible.

The Cockle Train runs between Victor Harbor and Goolwa Wharf and makes a great option to catch one way and walk the other.

View walk details

Heart Week walks, 4th – 10th May

Posted on by Walking SA

As part of Heart Foundation Heart Week celebrations, why not come and join in on one of the following walks. Bring your family, friends or work colleagues to enjoy the outdoors. Everyone is welcome!

Monday 5th May Wednesday 7th May Friday 9th May
Where Adelaide Botanic Gardens Victoria Park Wetlands Veale Gardens, Adelaide
Time 12.30 – 1.30pm 12.30 – 1.30pm 12.30 – 1.30pm
Meeting Point Meet at the Parklands opposite Conservatory Gate, Plane Tree Drive Meet at the corner of Halifax and East Tce Meet at the car park of the Adelaide Pavilion Conference & Function Rooms cnr Sout
Description Join the Cardiovascular Health team for a walk around the River Torrens including the new Adelaide Oval Footbridge Join the Active City team from the City of Adelaide on a walking tour of the newly developed Victoria Park.
They will be on hand to explain and answer your questions on how the new park was designed and developed.		 Join the Heart Foundation Walking team for a walk around picturesque Veale Gardens in the city’s south end.
Cost Gold Coin Donation Gold Coin Donation Gold Coin Donation

To Register go to Events and Park Walks and select SA on www.heartfoundation.org.au/walking, or call 1300 36 27 87.

Light refreshments provided following the walk.

Register online now

SA Adventure Activity Standards – update 2014

Posted on by Walking SA

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Adventure Activity Standards (AAS) are minimum, voluntary guidelines for organisations conducting outdoor recreation activities where the participants are dependent on the activity provider.

They are a valuable resource for all types of organisations, businesses, guides and leaders. Whether you are a business owner cross checking your insurance compliance, the Operations Manager of an outdoor activity provider updating your Standard Operating Procedures or a leader looking to refresh your activity planning processes.

We at Walking SA are playing a fundamental role in ensuring the Bushwalking AAS meets your needs. To date we have assisted in establishing a tight consultation group to review the first Bushwalking AAS draft and we happy to advise that in the coming weeks you to will have an opportunity to comment.

The update of the AAS will be facilitated throughout 2014 by Service Skills SA and we will do our best to keep you informed. So if you’re keen to contribute make sure you stay tuned.

Looking for more information? Visit the SSSA SA AAS Update Project Page.

Onwards and upwards SA Bushwalking community!

This project is being facilitated by Service Skills SA (SSSA) with support from Recreation SA and funding support from the Office for Recreation and Sport through the Sport and Recreation Development and Inclusion Program.

Day Walk Leadership Certificate Course

Posted on by Walking SA

A nationally recognised course to become an accredited Day Walk Assistant Leader or Day Walk Leader.

Inman Valley 7th-9th June 2014

Run over one day  and one weekend, the basics of safely and professionally managing a dependent group are covered.

Ideal for:

  • teachers,
  • youth workers,
  • personal trainers,
  • potential day walk leaders and
  • interested bushwalkers.

The Day Walk Assistant Leadership Certificate: this program is designed to Train Leaders who wish to Assist a leader with groups on Day Walks on recognised trails, within 1 hour of outside assistance.

The Day Walk Leadership Certificate: this program is designed to Train Leaders who wish to lead groups on Day Walks on recognised trails, within 1 hour of outside assistance.

The course is facilitated by Bushwalking Leadership South Australia Inc.

View more details & registration form

Seeking Treasurer to fill Vacancy

Posted on by Walking SA

We’re seeking someone to fulfill the role of Treasurer, due to a recent vacancy on our Board.

The position may be suitable for someone:

  • with accountancy skills looking to do some volunteer work and promote walking, or
  • someone looking for an addition to their CV.

The Treasurer’s role includes:

  • Ensuring compliance with ATO requirements (usually GST and PAYG returns)
  • Ensuring compliance with the terms of our grants and project funds (usually trust funds)
  • Charging back overheads and other costs against projects where appropriate
  • Planning and preparing budgets
  • Tracking expenditure
  • Planning cashflow requirements, including managing term deposits
  • Seeking and following up new sources of funding
  • Administering access to Commbiz and Xero
  • Ensuring transparent reporting

The Board of Walking SA was formed in August last year, and consists of 12 members. The organisation has entered a period of exciting change: adoption of new constitution, development and implementation of a strategic plan, new logo and branding and a new website.

Walking SA is the not-for-profit peak body that leads, promotes and supports all forms of walking in South Australia, including walking for recreation, transport, health, wellbeing, organised events, adventure, environmental appreciation and fun experiences.

Our vision is to see more people walking more often.

Please direct enquiries via our office, or contact Board Chair Cate Mettam.