Adventure Seekers Wilderness Journeys

Overland Track Transport

2012-01-30T12:37:00.000-08:00

Getting to the start as well as back from many of Tasmania's bushwalking tracks can be quite challenging.

For example. Are you walking the Overland Track? You can leave your car at Lake St Clair and we can transfer you to Cradle Mountain and the start of your walk.

Need stove fuel? We can provide that for you as well.
Organising transport should be done in advance before booking your tours, and even if you are self guiding. Some services are limited by their frequency and timing.

Adventure Seekers based in Hobart may be your answer to get you or your group to walks such as the Overland Track, Walls of Jerusalem or Scott's Peak - the start of the Western Arthur Traverse and the Port Davey Track.

Generally if you are a group of at least 2 we can get you to the trailhead and back at a time and day that is convenient for you. A group of 3 or more will attract a reduced rate.

The next time you need bushwalker transport in Tasmania, consider us.

Maps Verses GPS

2011-12-22T18:57:00.000-08:00

Well, Im going to tell you straight up that my preference is the map.

I admit that the GPS is accurate and has some pretty whiz bang features but like all electronic devises things can go wrong with them, batteries go flat, you drop it, then it does work etc etc...

The map however is pretty straight forward. It doesn't require any batteries and it will keep on working 24/7. All you will need is to learn how to read one and study up on the use of a compass.

With your maps I suggest to get them laminated (sealed in a laminated pouch). It will last much longer (wear & tear) and will be impervious to rain. Most office supply shops provide this service or more popular maps come pre-laminated from specialist map shops.

Oh... I just about forgot to tell you that they weigh a lot less too!

Why you should take a guided walk in Tasmania

2011-12-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

By choosing to do a guided walk, your guiding company will handle all of the organizational aspects of the tour and deliver to you, the client a professionally researched and rewarding itinerary.

At Adventure Seekers we operate multiday walks such as the iconic Overland Track, South Coast Track and Walls of Jerusalem to name a few.

This blog talks about what Adventure Seekers offer on their guided walks as opposed to doing the walk independently and arranging the logistics yourself.

Your tour begins and ends with the convenience of the company’s own transportation, which gives us the flexibility of when we start and end the walk and collect you from your accommodation rather than relying on a scheduled service.

Your tour guides are the backbone of the tour. They ensure that your objectives are met and generally look after your wellbeing. Your guides will interpret the landscape, carry all of the group equipment and food thus allowing your own packs to be light and manageable.

The meals that the guides whip up on specialist cooking equipment are hearty and flavorsome. You’ll enjoy dinners such as risottos, beef stews, cereal and fruit for breakfast and gourmet wraps for lunch.

Safety on your tour is taken seriously and each guide is 1^st aid qualified and trained in emergency procedures. Guides carry 1^st aid kits and emergency equipment that includes an emergency locator beacon and a satellite telephone.

Maps of the track are also carried for guides and clients to reference.

The company also provides your accommodation while on the walk and uses activity specific, 4 - season 2 - person tents.

Organizing your own walk can be quite challenging and specialized equipment can be costly. A guided walk will ensure your safety, establish new friendships and educate you about the special places that you will visit.

Walker Transport Tasmania

2011-12-18T17:50:00.000-08:00

Getting to the start as well as back from many of Tasmania's bushwalking tracks can be quite challenging.

Organising transport should be done in advance before booking your tours, and even if you are self guiding. Some services are limited by their frequency and timing.

Adventure Seekers based in Hobart may be your answer to get you or your group to walks such as the Overland Track, Walls of Jerusalem or Scott's Peak - the start of the Western Arthur Traverse and the Port Davey Track.

Generally if you are a group of at least 3 we can get you to the trailhead and back at a time and day that is convenient for you. A group of 5 or more will attract a discounted rate.

The next time you need bushwalker transport in Tasmania, consider us.

A Day On Maria

2011-12-18T12:18:00.000-08:00

A trip to Tasmania wouldn't be complete without doing a day tour to Maria Island.
Maria Island is a National Park and a former probation station. A convict station was first established on the island in 1825 preceding the establishment of Port Arthur.
The convict era buildings are well preserved and were built by the convicts themselves.
Our day tour pieces together the past, talks about the 1st settlers of Maria and takes you to magical places like the Painted Cliffs and Skipping Ridge.
The walking is gentle, you'll see abundant wildlife such as Cape Barren Geese, Native Hens, Forester Kangaroos, Pademelons and Wombats. Tours leave Hobart daily November through to April.

South Coast Track Guided Walk, Tasmania - 3rd December 2011

2011-12-11T12:19:00.000-08:00

Our Par Avion flight from Hobart to Melaleuca was delayed 6 hours due to a slow moving cold front lingering in the west.
Finally after touching down around 4pm we set off on our guided walk towards Cox Bight and Point Eric.
A storm burst followed us into camp, which happened to be the last threat of rain that we would have until the evening of day 8.
The following morning it was a short beach walk to Black Cliff which you need to wade through the surf in order to continue.
It was here at Black Cliff where a sudden gust of wind picked up John's immaculately kept Akubra hat and tossed it into the Southern Ocean, never to be seen again.
Pressing on we soon arrived at the Louisa River camp, our springboard for the next days accent of the Ironbound Range. The formidable Ironbounds took us 12 hours and our views were limited but at least it didn't rain.
Day 4 was a rest day and we did exactly that. Numerous cups of tea, stoking the fire and an afternoon nap were in order.
Later that afternoon a walker rolled into camp after negotiating the Ironbounds. Little did we know but what he pulled out of his pack was the beginning of an amazing reunion for one of our clients.
Surprisingly in his hand was John's Akubra! What was once a well kept hat was now all puckered up and filled with the sands and sea life of Cox's Bight. John immediately washed it in the creek and started to dry it over the open fire then re-shaped it with a smile.
Prion Beach, Surprise Bay and Granite Beach where all picture perfect and the South Cape Range lived up to its reputation as a hard slog at the end of a great walk.
In the early evening of day 8 a stormed rolled into South Cape Rivulet, lightening and thunder cracked directly above us.
Showers continued through to the next morning as we set off through Blowhole Valley and the end of our walk at Cockle Creek.

Overland Track Guided Walk, Tasmania

2011-11-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

This is where you start your 6 day guided walk of the Overland Track with Adventure Seekers - at Ronny Creek and the walker registration hut.
The weather is a bit misty and mysterious as you can see in the picture but we are hoping that it will improve for the guys.
The track snakes its way past Cradle Mountain and highland lakes and over mountainous passes to Lake St Clair and the ferry ride to Cynthia Bay.
You'll have close encounters with wombats, devils and inquisitive possums.

Frenchman's Cap Walk, Tasmania

2011-11-30T12:18:00.000-08:00

You may have heard of the Sodden Loddens, if not, this is a minefield of mud that you encounter on you first day into Frenchman's Cap. Actually they weren't that bad!
This tour was our 1st of the season and weather wise we were dead lucky. We had expansive views from the summit of Frenchman's Cap, the track was good and the company great.
During our walk we heard that a large group of walkers (not us) got lost on a day walk to Philps Peak and spent a cold night in a cave before finding their way back to Lake Vera.
Large pockets of winter snow lay around the Cap as you can see in the photo. The picture shows Barren Pass (the narrow saddle) in the background with Philps Peak to the right.

Save the Tasmanian Devil

2011-08-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

September 7th is Threatened Species Day and it is your chance to make a difference and organise your own fundraiser or simply just make a donation to help save the Tasmanian Devil.

National Threatened Species Day is held on this date each year to commemorate the loss of the last Tasmanian Tiger that died in captivity in the Hobart Zoo in 1936.

In some ares of Tasmania up to 90% of the Tasmanian Devil Population has been wiped out due to a facial tumor disease (DFTD).

This disease is fatal and it is characterised by cancer growths around the mouth on the face and head. The disease is passed on from one Devil to the other from biting each other. Although the bite itself is quite harmless, the Devils do fight a lot to establish a pecking order as well as they fight over food.

Help a team of scientists find a cure by donating or running a fundraiser on September 7th. Details are available at www.tassiedevil.com.au

Why you should take a guided wilderness walk in Tasmania?

2011-08-22T01:38:00.000-07:00

Do we mean as opposed to "walking solo" or because of its natural beauty?

Ok, lets take a look at what Tasmania has to offer.

It is the most mountainous state in Australia. It sits in the pathway of the notorious "Roaring Forties" winds. It has changeable weather, it can snow in any season. It has two of the worlds most venomous snakes, the Tiger Snake and the Copper Head. It has dense cool temperate rain forests and impenetrable horizontal scrub.

However, don't let this put you off. It is this; Tasmania's relatively unspoiled natural environment that attracts thousands of walkers each year. Nothing will make your journey more memorable, safe and informative than sharing it with a local guide (packhorse or not) on a Tasmanian guided walk.

Satellite Phones - Keeping in touch

2011-08-17T13:35:00.000-07:00

There may come a time that you have a medical emergency or the progression of your bush walk has been hampered by bad weather and you expect to arrive late at your destination.
Whatever the emergency, verbal communication with emergency services is vital to initiate a quick response and to receive needy advice.
Telstra's Next G service doesn't reach the remote areas of Australia therefore a satellite phone is your only alternative.
Satellite phones can be rented for as little as $11.00 a day or you can buy them outright over 2 years on a plan. They sell for around $2000 - $2100 and a service plan will cost you around $30 per month plus calls.
The next time you head off on a remote walk have a communication plan. Does the area have normal phone coverage? If not consider a satellite phone. For emergencies phone 000

South Coast Track Guided Walk - now with "Live Track"

2011-08-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

Adventure Seekers South Coast Track Guided Walks now come equipped with "Live Track"

Live Track records your exact position every 10 minutes with a product called SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger. SPOT uses the GPS satellite system (much like in a car) to determine your location.

Family and friends can track your walk progress from the comfort of their home from anywhere in the world in real-time, using Google Maps.

The SPOT leaves a virtual breadcrumb trail of your South Coast Track walk and it's fun for friends to follow your wilderness journey.

Choosing a tent - What to consider.

2011-08-13T20:38:00.000-07:00

There are four main things to consider when buying your next tent. They are size, use, waterproofness and lastly free-standing verses non free-standing. This blog focuses on tents that are suitable overnight or extended walking.
Size - The first thing to think about is the size of your tent followed by what season / s that you will be using it in. For bushwalking around Australia a 1 person tent will suffice if you are going solo or a 2 person tent if you have a walking partner. Make sure that the tent has a vestibule, so that you can store your pack in. Most 2 person tents now have twin vestibules so that each person can access their own side of the tent and store their gear separately.
The next consideration is - use. Where are you going to use it? and for what season of the year? Tent options range from summer weight tents all the way to 4 season tents. Will you only use it below the snow line? Use generally goes hand in hand with waterproofness so you will need to choose a tent that will also suit the weather extremes of the areas in which you will visit.
The waterproofness of a material is rated in millimetres and generally a material (nylon or polyester) that is rated from 1000mm is waterproof.
10,000 mm is the highest value you can get. The higher the value means the more waterproof coating, more weight and more cost.
For commercial purposes I tend to choose a tent that is more durable and waterproof. I look for a tent with a floor of 10,000mm and fly of 4000mm + as well as being UV resistant. For personal use and depending on how often you may use it a tent with a 5000mm floor and 3000mm fly may suffice; this will save you on weight and cost.
Lastly free-standing verses non free-standing. A free-standing tent is a tent that supports itself. By placing the poles into eyelets in each corner of the tent and then clipping the roof of the inner tent to the poles, this will tension the poles and the tent will stand erect. Free standing tents are good for wooden tent platforms like which you will find on the Overland Track in Tasmania, they are easier to set up, a bit lighter and easier to stake out. However non free-standing tents are generally stronger.
On the other hand you can always own a range of tents to suit the different locations and conditions.

Overland Track Walk - Now with "Live Track"

2011-08-08T18:08:00.000-07:00

Adventure Seekers Overland Track Guided Walks now come equipped with "Live Track"

Live Track records your exact position every 10 minutes with a product called SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger. SPOT uses the GPS satellite system (much like in a car) to determine your location.

Family and friends can track your walk progress from the comfort of their home from anywhere in the world in real-time, using Google Maps.

The SPOT leaves a virtual breadcrumb trail of your Overland Track walk and it's fun for friends to follow your wilderness journey.

Landscape Photography Tips

2011-08-01T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have put together a few basic tips that you should apply to your landscape photography and by applying them it should help you to capture the scenery at its best.

1. Where possible use a tripod as this will ensure sharpness of the image
2. Use the rule of thirds. Place the horizon a third of the way down
3. Place the centre of interest (unusual rock, stream, cabin) a little bit off - centre
4. A foreground image will help frame the scene but ensure that you have your depth of field set correctly.
5. Check through your viewfinder that there are no un-natural objects in your shot (telephone boxes, power lines etc)
6. Never use your cameras flash
7. Try and keep your image horizontal
8. Be patient and stick around for a while when capturing a scene. Morning and evening light can bring change quickly and make your shot more interesting.

In the picture above, by placing an object in the foreground, it gives you the impression of three - dimensionality.

Hiking in Australia - World's Best Ridge Walk

2011-07-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

The Western Arthur Range in Tasmania, Australia is considered the best ridge walk in Australia, if not the world. It is generally walked over 10 days and it is completed as a 85 km circuit.

The peaks, ridges and lakes of the Western Arthur Range are named after the planets, stars and constellations of the night sky.

The total GPS recorded ascent for the whole walk is 4800 metres. It is a challenging walk but very rewarding and the views are breathtaking.

Guided groups hike the range from November through to April.

A Guides Life - Lake Oberon Day 2 (Part 2)

2011-07-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

From the summit of Mount Hayes you get commanding views of the range and the South West National Park.
Today's journey is full of ascents, descents, negotiating scree slopes, scrambling and "views". I may seem to go on about the views but we are lucky to get good weather up here, sometimes it can be a bit of a lottery.
Square Lake was a welcome site and a timely stop for lunch. The smoked chicken, avacado and salad wraps were divine!
After a well earned rest it was, (you guessed it) climb time! Up the slopes of Square Lake to the ridge top, around a huge buttress to a small saddle and then before us was the classic view of Lake Oberon.

A Guides Life - Lake Oberon Day 2 (Part 1)

2011-07-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

The peaks, ridges and lakes of the Western Arthur Range are named after the planets, stars and constellations of the night sky. The range poses a challenge for walkers given its altitude, ruggedness and exposure to extreme weather.

Morning on day 2 dawned fine, which is a relief. I assembled the trangia and set about preparing breaky for the guys. Hot porridge was on the menu this morning followed by a cup of tea for all, a good warm me up as we won't see the sun until we climb up to the ridge crest from our camp deep in the cirque of Lake Cygnus.

Packs packed, shoulders and hips a bit tender from the weight of our packs we climbed up out of Lake Cygnus and headed for Mount Hayes.

A Guides Life - Western Arthurs Day 1

2011-07-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

A 6:30am start from Hobart gets us to Scott's Peak Dam at 09:15 and we're ripping to go. I pull on the trusty boots and do a final gear check.

"Anybody want some power gels, you might need them we have a big day ahead" They were gone in a flash! Lake Cygnus here we come. We were blessed with a perfect day as we set off trudging through the mud towards Junction Creek.

By Junction Creek spirits were still high, we lunched then set off for Moraine A. Moraine A is the approach to top of the northern end of the Western Arthur Range and the beginning of Australia's best ridge walk.

I took up my usual role as tail end Charlie and started attacking the accent. The guys ahead of me stirred up a wasps nest and as I passed through that spot they took to me stinging my legs. Shit it hurt!

My head guide and 2 clients were off like a flash and weren't to be seen again until we reached the top of the range. I followed our 3rd client, who was suffering from extreme cramping. Not a nice start to his 10 day walk.

We re-grouped at the top of the range, took some pics then headed off along the range to Lake Cygnus. The sun was still shinning on the eastern side of the cirque as we descended down to the lake and our campsite. A tent pitching demonstration was my first task followed by swinging the billy for a hot cuppa.

Dinner was a Tomato and Basil Risotto with more hot drinks and a early night.

Bushwalker Transport Tasmania

2011-07-25T21:31:00.000-07:00

Getting to the start as well as back form many of Tasmania's bushwalking tracks can be quite challenging.

Organising transport should be done in advance before booking your tours, and even if you are self guiding. Some services are limited by their frequency and timing.

Adventure Seekers, based in Hobart may be your answer to get you or your group to walks such as the Overland Track and Scott's Peak - the start of the Western Arthur Traverse and the Port Davey Track.

Generally if you are a group of at least 3 we can get you to the trailhead and back at a time and day that is convenient for you. A group of 5 or more will attract a discounted rate.

The next time you need bushwalker transport in Tasmania, consider us.

A Guides Life - The Meet & Greet, Please take a seat!

2011-07-25T20:17:00.000-07:00

Dawn on day 1 and the weather is what it is. It is just a good feeling to get out into the bush again and introduce our guests to our backyard.

Vehicle inspection, check! passenger list, check! and Im heading off to pick up my fellow guide.

This particular tour is the Western Arthur Range in the South West National Park of Tasmania and is over 10 days and 86km.

One by one we pull into our clients accommodation and do the introductions. Everyone is dressed in their bushwalking finest, some are dressed head to toe in one brand, some are not so loyal and are wearing a mixture of brands, new and clean.....for now!

The drive to Scott's Peak Dam is about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Hobart; a great opportunity for us to get to know our guests and our guests each other.

Adventure Race Australia

2011-07-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

Sunday 24th July 2011

Nanga Bush Camp, Dwellingup, WA was home to the 2011 Adventure Race Australia. 80 teams of solos, 2 and 3 competitors navigated their way through the beautiful Jarrah Forest by means of mountain bike, raft and on foot.

Additional challenges were a 18 metre abseil and sprint rogaining legs. The race was 1 in a series of races held nationally and run by In2Adventure.

The next event is in Adelaide on Sunday 7th August. Hope you can make it!

Lamington National Park: Beauty & Intrigue

2011-04-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

Lamington & Springbrook National Parks in South East Queensland are mecca's for bushwalkers and have over 200km of walking tracks.

The Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk joins these two parks and this walk has outstanding natural and cultural attractions.

On this Great Walk you will trek through lush temperate and sub-tropical rainforest, you'll see evidence of early settler occupation and hear stories of courage and hope.

One such story, in February 1937, a Stinson Airliner, VH-UHH went missing on a flight from Brisbane to Lismore.

The airliner crashed into the dense rainforest on the Lamington Plateau. Initially it was thought that the airliner was never in the area until local farmer Bernard O'Reilly had a hunch and went in search for the wreckage.

Five men died in the crash but remarkably 2 men survived. They were found deep in the rainforest by Bernard O'Reilly 10 days after the crash.

South Coast Track: A walk on the wild side.

2011-04-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

The sound of your guide assembling the trangia stove each morning is your cue to get out of your tent.

What's stopping you is the thought of putting on your wet socks and your damp clothes but your guide shouting "cuppa" is enough incentive to get you moving each day.

With a coffee in hand its' just a stroll from your bush camp to one of many secluded beaches that you camp beside on Tasmania's South Coast Track.

The South Coast Track is one of Tasmania's greatest guided walks. You'll encounter very few people and see amazing landscapes and wildlife.

Wombats: Close Encounters!

2011-04-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

How cute is this little guy?

He is one of hundreds of wombats that run wild on Maria Island, Tasmania.

Maria Island is a National Park off the East Coast of Tasmania and you can arrange a guided tour of the island to uncover its history and meet its amazing inhabitants.

Close encounters with the wildlife are numerous on Maria Island.

Wombats generally don't come out during the heat of the day, so late afternoons /early evenings are the best time to go wombat spotting. You can generally get pretty close to them as they have trouble seeing you until you're pretty much on top of them.

When they do see you, they sometimes stand really still and pretend that you can't see them!

You've got to love them!

South Coast Track

2010-09-27T01:17:00.000-07:00

Adventure Seekers Guided walking tours on Tasmania's South Coast Track begin in November and run through until February 2011.

If you like to join us visit our website www.adventureseekers.com.au for more details.

We begin our 9 day 85km journey with a light aircraft flight into the airstrip at Melaleuca then travel from west to east over wilderness beaches and dramatic peaks, through temperate rainforest and across pristine rivers and creeks.
Aboriginal people used this same route for thousands of years and evidence of their culture can still be seen. The diversity of plant and animal species in the park is amazing, particularly the abundant bird life.
A good level of fitness is required to complete this trek and walkers are required to carry heavy packs up to 15 km a day. Each day is different and the campsites that we visit are spectacular but the total journey is the true reward.Testimonials“This trek was challenging both physically and mentally. The guides kept a watchful eye on us without being intrusive and they formed the group into a close and happy party. I learned a lot about trekking from these guys”.- Stuart M

Maria Island Walking Tour by Adventure Seekers

2010-09-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

There are 2 ways to get to Maria Island, by ferry or you can choose what http://www.adventureseekers.com.au/ do, and fly. There is no better way to experience Tasmania than from the air. Our Maria Island guided walk which runs from November 2010 through to April 2011 begins with a spectacular charter flight up the east coast of Tasmania before landing at Darlington on Maria Island. As soon as you land you will be blown away by the breathtaking landscape. This tour is a fantastic four day walking tour not to be missed. Check out our website for details and a itinerary.

Maria Island Walk

2010-06-25T14:40:00.000-07:00

Our Maria Island Guided Walks in Tasmania get underway on the 4th November 2010. These tours are small departures and can book out quickly. This tour includes a remarkable scenic flight up the east coast of Tasmania, taking in the splendour of Wineglass Bay and Freycinet Peninsula before landing on Maria Island. This is a place you will not forget. http://www.adventureseekers.com.au/

Maria Island Guided Walk with Adventure Seekers

2010-05-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

Walking Holidays in Tasmania

Besides walking, there is no better way to experience Tasmania than from the air, as walking tour operators Adventure Seekers do.

Flying is the only way to get to some remote bushwalking locations in Tasmania, namely Melaleuca, the start of the South Coast Track but now tour operators are also using charter services to get to even more accessible locations, saving travelers time and seeing more.

Adventure Seekers have introduced a new walking tour on Maria Island and they get you there on a breathtaking charter flight that covers almost ¾ of the east coast of Tasmania.

Virgin Blue or Qantas won’t give you a better bird’s eye view or a running commentary as Adventure Seekers do. Their amazing charter flight with local operators Tasair, to Maria Island introduces you to Tasmania’s historical past and showcases the islands geological wonderment.

They will fly you over historic Port Arthur and around the towering dolerite cliffs of Cape Pillar and Tasman Island then onwards to Freycinet Peninsula and famous Wineglass Bay before landing at Darlington on Maria Island.

Adventure Seekers Maria Island Guided walk requires no special skills: just a sense of wonder and adventure.

After your breathtaking 90 minute flight you’ll be walking forest tracks through wombat territory, you’ll be amazed at exquisitely patterned painted cliffs and sweeping deserted beaches. And it’s only lunchtime on day 1 of a 4 day walk through an island paradise.

Maria (pronounced Muh-rye-uh) is peaceful and relaxing. There are no vehicles, power or permanent residents, just beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife and the remnants of an intriguing past.

A penal station was established on Maria Island in 1825 to relieve the pressure on Tasmania’s first penal colony of Sarah Island, on the west coast. In 1832 the settlement was abandoned due to the creation of Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula.

Adventure Seekers guides will immerse you in Maria’s past and lead you through an amazing exploration of the island.

Maria’s terrain will not fail to inspire awe. You’ll have mountainous “views”, walk with the wildlife and eat fine Tasmanian produce.

“It’s a special place”.

South Coast Track Tasmania

2010-04-28T13:51:00.000-07:00

Story by Adventure Seekers Guest Richard Tullock.
Camping? Why would I spend money to live in poverty? And when it comes to walking Tasmania’s South Coast Track, it’s poverty plus a week of hard labour. There must be some good reason why I chose to put myself through this. I wake at dawn on a mat on the cold ground, scratch my insect bites and pull on the same clammy clothes I’ve been sweating in for days. I force my legs to straighten and stumble through wet bushes to a clearing. Here I squat over a stinking pit, then rinse without soap in a murky stream. Yep, it’s poverty all right.
Breakfast time. The cheery sign on the packet reads, ‘You’ll love Coles Quick Oats.’‘Love’ is not a term I use lightly, and I never apply it to gluggy cereal. But it would take me days to hike to the nearest croissant and extra shot cappuccino, so quick oats with powdered milk it is.
Body suitably carbohydrated, I hoist a dead weight onto my back. We’re carrying our own tents, sleeping bags and enough food for nine days. Two of my heavier packets are labelled ‘Dinner Day 7’ and ‘Dinner Day 8’. They’ll be with me for some time yet.
My fellow travellers are also saddling up. Brian the Brisbane fire fighter is intoning, ‘I must become the pack. I am the pack…’ Susie the adventure racer is leading stretching exercises, designed to ease the kinks out of Stan’s dodgy hip.
‘As they used to tell us in the army,’ grins trekking guide Ambor, ‘pain is weakness leaving the body.’ He’s younger and fitter than me, but he must have 30 kilos on his shoulders. Ah, poverty plus hard labour.
We step out of the trees onto the beach, and immediately we’re millionaires. We remember now why we’re doing this. The South West National Park, the largest wilderness area in Tasmania, is as savage, beautiful and untouched as anywhere on the planet, and we’ve nearly got it all to ourselves.In 600,000 hectares there are no roads, just the crashing surf on our right, the rainforest rising on our left, and behind it the rugged peaks of the Western Arthur Range. We’ll make the only footprints on the sand this morning. If Bill Gates wants to see this, he’ll have to walk in too.
The 83km South Coast Track is one of the world’s great wilderness walks, though due to recent track work and drought it’s no longer the muddy bog that old-timers speak of in hushed tones. Nevertheless, it’s harder going than the famous Overland Track, much less busy and with spectacular wild beaches as well as mountain views.
The terrain varies from button grass plains, stands of melaleuca, rocky alps and dripping rainforest with endemic huon pines, massive swamp gums and 300 species of fern and moss. Much of the trek is not too difficult, and we need to walk just four to six hour days between our lovely campsites, but there are two gruelling eight to ten hour slogs over the Ironbound Range and the South Coast Range. The views from the top are brilliant in fine weather, so we’re told. Coming down the steep slopes is an ordeal in the rain as we scramble through roots and clamber over fallen timber and slippery rocks.
Some members of our party can talk with intimidating authority of iron man events, mountain bike marathons and kayaking expeditions. Young Kai and Anna are doing their first multi-day walk and we admire their guts and determination. I fall somewhere in the middle in experience and sadly lead the pack in age. The South Coast Track is tough enough to keep the athletes interested, but even the novices and the old bloke comfortably stay the course.
It helps to have Stan as our senior guide. His company Adventure Seekers has done all the logistics; booking the light planes which flew us from Hobart to Melaleuca airstrip at the start of the track, providing the tents and buying the food – skilfully balancing minimum weight with maximum taste and nutrition for seven people over nine days.
Stan and Ambor carry first aid kits, an emergency beacon, a GPS device and a satellite phone, but luckily all we need are a few bandaids for blisters.
The guides also do the cooking. Maybe he’ll never earn a Michelin chef’s hat, but Stan deserves at least a Michelin beanie. Out of dehydrated meat, peas and carrots he conjures up Madras curry or Navarin of lamb over the spirit stove each night. Dried orange slices dipped in melted chocolate are a great dessert if you’re hungry enough.
Our track food is the envy of the few independent walkers we meet along the way. The German backpackers from Dresden were hoping to catch fresh fish to eke out their supplies. So far they’ve eaten a lot of rice.
We ford the Louisa River and rock hop over Tyler’s Creek. At New River Lagoon we have the fun task of shuttling across the water on two rowboats. It’s a puzzle how to get everyone over and still leave one boat and one set of oars on each bank for the next group. The solo walker in front of us admits he rowed back and forth five times before he got it right.
We hear birds everywhere, though we seldom see them, apart from a glimpse of rare orange-bellied parrots at Melaleuca and the ubiquitous currawongs and gulls. At dusk pademelons and a spotted quoll creep around the campsite hoping for snacks.There can’t be too many places left on earth where you can go a whole week without checking your email or hearing news of Britney Spears, so it’s a bit of a shock when on Day 8 graded track sections and the appearance of day walkers in clean clothes suggest we’re nearly back in civilisation.
We emerge at Cockle Creek, at the end of the most southerly road in Australia. To those camped there in their mobile homes it probably feels like they’re getting away from it all. To the hardened nature types we’ve become this week, the place is a buzzing metropolis. Kai and Anna chat to a family from Ireland and are rewarded with a bar of chocolate that we divide seven ways and eagerly devour.
When we’re in mobile phone range I ring home. ‘I survived the wild!’ I report. ‘Good,’ says my wife, ‘because the dishwasher broke, the accountant urgently needs our bank statements for the tax returns, the car’s making that funny noise again and the toilet won’t flush.’ Welcome back to living in luxury

Maria Island Walks Tasmania

2010-04-22T17:43:00.000-07:00

Abseiling Mt Tinbeerwah

2010-04-18T15:38:00.000-07:00

Team Building Brisbane

2010-04-16T21:31:00.000-07:00

Adventure Seekers run outdoor activities such as abseiling and rock climbing that small businesses and corporations can use as tools for team development. Our sessions run for 3 hours and build trust, better communication and self confidence.

South Coast Track Tasmania

2010-04-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

2010 / 2011 South Coast Track Guided Walk departure dates will be up on the website soon http://www.adventureseekers.com.au and its probally a good time to work on your fitness and check your gear especially your boots. Need a new pair? Buy them know and wear them in to avoid any possible discomfort later on. Our 1st South Coast Track walk departs 13th November then once a month until February 2011. Like to secure a spot? Give us a call.

Rockclimbing Abseiling Kangaroo Point

2010-04-14T18:59:00.000-07:00

Looking for a bit of adventure? Come and try our 3 hour rockclimbing or abseiling activities at Kangaroo Point. These activities run seperately and are great for novices or beginners and kick off most mornings at 0830am.

You may also like to give our sunset abseil a go. As the sun sets you will abseil into the night with Brisbane's city lights as your backdrop. This activity starts at 4.30pm and finishes at 6.30pm and includes a refreshing drinks and nibbles. www.adventureseekers.com.au

Maria Island Walk

2010-04-14T13:54:00.001-07:00

Adventure Seekers Itinerary:

Day 1 We leave Hobart Airport and fly south over Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula while observing the intriguing geological features of the towering seacliffs. The coastline has numerous underwater cliffs and caves, the habitat for abundant marine life. We round Cape Pillar and Tasman Island where we get a chance to see Austrailian Fur Seal colonies on the rocks below. Our flight then tracks up the coast to Maria Island and we get spectacular veiws of the lay of the island and where our 4 day walk will travel. Flying further north we pass over Schouten Island then come to the beautiful Freycinet Peninsula and the much noted Wineglass Bay (voted one of the worlds top 10 beaches) and Hazards Beach. We turn around at Coles Bay and head back south touching down at Darlington on Maria Island. From Darlington we visit the amazingly patterned painted cliffs on our journey to Encampment Cove. We can take in a evening swim in the sheltered cove and visit the historic convict cells at Point Lesueur.

Day 2 We stroll along the beautiful beach of Shoal Bay on our way to Robeys Farm, once an early period sheep station. Now, the sheep have been removed and some building ruins and old machinery remain. After lunch we walk to Haunted Bay and the expansive veiws to the Tasman Sea. We then retrace our footsteps along the shores of Shoal Bay passing through forest and coastal vegetation to historic Frenchs Farm, home of the French family in the mid 1900. We camp in the picturesque clearing of the now dissused partially restored farmhouse that gives us ocean and beach veiws.

Day 3 Today we travel inland throught the heart of Maria Island. 5km along the track we have the opportunity to climb Mount Maria before visiting the Oast House and our final destination, Darlington.

Day 4 We spend most of the day exploring Darlington, the buildings, the relics and the fantastic Fossil Bay and cliffs. For the energetic we can also climb Bishop and Clerk. From Darlington we catch the 1 hour voyage on the Maria Island Ferry across the Mercury Passage to Triabunna and our waiting bus. Our journey back to Hobart will take us about 1 1/2 hours.

www.adventureseekers.com.au

Maria Island Guided Walk

2010-04-13T19:33:00.000-07:00

Introducing a new Tasmanian Walking Tour. Combine a spectacular scenic flight around the Tasman Peninsula, Freycinet Peninsula and Wineglass Bay landing on Maria Island with a 4 day guided walking tour through a breathtaking landscape.Maria Island lies 10km off the east coast of Tasmania, Australia and we access it by an amazing private charter flight. Maria is a peaceful and relaxing place. There are no vehicles, just beautiful scenery, deserted beaches and abundant wildlife. To add to the beauty of the island, she has an intriguing history. After the first explorers, came whalers and sealers and later the island was a convict station.Your guides will immerse you in the islands history and lead you on a amazing 4 day exploration of Maria. Your accommodation are twin share tents, but what other way would you have it on this island paradise. Camping does not mean dehydrated foods. We end each day with a meal of fresh local produce and fine Tasmanian Wines.

Queensland Great Walks

2010-02-27T17:08:00.000-08:00

Our Great Walks to Carnarvon Gorge and the Gold Coast Hinterland get under way in April 2010 followed by our Outback Explorer in May. The Great Walks are new tours for the company and we are offering a huge discount on our first Carnarvon Great Walk just to kick it off in style. Was $1995, Now $1195 - limited spaces!

The Carnarvon Great walk is a full pack walk and the Gold Coast and Outback Explorer tours are supported.
If you are looking for a tour with a more slower pace, the best experiences of the outback way of life and the best sites of Carnarvon Gorge, our Outback Explorer tour is for you!

South Coast Track Tasmania

2010-02-27T16:30:00.000-08:00

This blogs a bit late I know, but we had another awesome guided trek on Tasmania's South Coast Track on Jan 16th. Our group of Peter, Sarina, Russell, Dani, Alice and Adventure Seekers guides Stefan and Stan had a fantastic time. The weather was kind (except going over the Ironbounds), the scenery was great and the experience rewarding.

Australian Great Walks

2009-10-30T02:16:00.001-07:00

2009-10-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

The Hell's Bell's 24 hr Adventure Race was held on 17th October on the Sunshine Coast. (This is how we stay fit while not trekking). Disciplines included trekking, mountain biking, abseiling, high ropes orienteering and canyoning (Stan in picture left). The team of Glen, Stan and Joe made it home for breakfast in just over 21 hours.

2009-10-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

On a recent Carnarvon Gorge Outback explorer tour we encountered a new species of bird to visit 'Sunnyholt' in the Arcadia Valley.

The Comb Crested Jacana (Jesus Bird) can now be added to Rowan's comprehensive bird list that visit his property.

We look forward resuming our tours next year in May.

Adventure Active Advice - Pack Training

2009-08-25T14:43:00.000-07:00

A lot of clients ask me " What sort of pack weight will we be carrying on our tour?" Well it varies. On our Carnarvon Gorge and Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walks 8kg max but on our more remote and extended Tasmanian walks 16 - 20kg. So how do you prepare yourself to carry the heavier loads?
To obtain the strength to carry heavier loads follows one main fundamental principal - INCREASE LOAD OVER TIME. Doing repetative training walks with the same weight will not increase your strength.
Firstly, timing is important. You need to aim to get your legs, heart and lungs fit a couple of months before you go on your walk. If you run or cycle a lot, "thats great" but do it on hills and progressively find higher and steeper hills to tackle.
My advice, grab your pack, have a look at it. Is it big enough to carry the essential items + supplies? Is it the correct size for my back length? Is it adjusted correctly? Not sure - take it into your local outdoor shop and get it professionally fitted.
Now for the training -
From our gear list throw in about 5 kg and walk about 4km at least 3 times a week. Each walk increase your weight by 1 kg.
Taking into consideration the weight of your pack; for your 1st walk on week 2 your pack weight should be 12kg. Once again do 3 walks increasing your pack weight 1kg for each walk that you do.
Week 3 - Total pack weight 15kg. This is the average weight for the ladies but guys you can keep adding a bit more!
It's time to find some bigger and steeper hills. Ladies - remove 2kg of gear and add 3 x 1 litre bottles of water, get cracking up a hill (at least 1 - 2km climb), empty out the water at the top and walk back down (saves the knees). For the guys do the same but with more weight.
Week 4 - Repeat this process by increasing your load by a bottle of water each walk up to as heavy as you can handle.
Some tips: 1. Walk in the boots that you intend to walk in on your tour. 2. Place the water bottles in the middle of your pack and close to your back.

Snowdonia, Wales, UK

2009-08-07T01:34:00.001-07:00

Stan & Senna stopping for a breather whilst climbing Crib Goch (1 of 4 summits to be climbed that day).

Snowdonia, Wales, UK

2009-08-07T01:21:00.000-07:00

Stan, Rob and Senna completed the Snowdon Horseshoe on Wednesday 5th August. The day started overcast but later cleared to give us wonderful veiws of Snowdonia. The picture shows Robert & Senna on the precarious summit ridge of Crib Goch @3022 feet.

Glasshouse Mountains Rock Climbing Sat 5th June

2009-07-07T20:22:00.000-07:00

Although a glorious day, the winds from yesterday remained, and it was cold! The shelter and shade of the nursery cliffs saw us climbing topside for the warmth of the sun between climbs. One climb "Cold Girl" was an appropriate name and yes she was a bit cold to climb first thing.

Glasshouse Mountains Rock Climbing

2009-07-07T20:14:00.000-07:00

On Friday 4th July the climb up to the summit of Mt Ngungun wasnt without reward. The weather was beaut and so was the veiw. The guys got stuck into the many climbs on the nursery slopes and they had a ball. The forecasted windy weather blew in from the west at lunch time but without hinderence to our climbing.

Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk

2009-06-11T21:35:00.000-07:00

Ok wev'e worked out the logistics and are happy to announce that we will soon be underway with our tours on the Gold Coast Hinterland Great Walk. The recent wet weather that we have had has called for a bit of track maintainence but all is good now.
This is a 3 day walk joining the National Parks of Lamington and Springbrook via the Numimbah Valley. Tours start in late August and continue monthly into summer. A detailed itinerary can be found on our website via the bushwalking page.

Mount Tinbeerwah

2009-06-06T13:11:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning up at Mount Tinbeerwah, Noosa was the perfect morning. Clear skies, no wind and picture perfect veiws over Noosa and the hinterland.

Daniel, Jason, Laura and Anna had joined us for a 1/2 day abseiling adventure, so after a bit of tuition and a demo it was straight into a 40 metre abseil off 'Degrees of Freedom".

After a BBQ lunch we moved to our 2nd abseil location" Me and my dog" which was slightly higher at 45 metres. Totally worn out from the climbs back up to the top we wrapped up the session at 2pm.

Satuday Abseiling at KP

2009-05-31T02:26:00.000-07:00

After friday nights downpour the next days activities were at risk but thankfully saturday morning dawned a fine day. Our clients got in some awesome abseiling time at Kangaroo Point and no one was dissapointed.

Carnarvon Gorge & Arcadia Valley

2009-05-27T22:07:00.000-07:00

Carnarvon Gorge & Arcadia Valley

Tour has just returned from Carnarvon Gorge via the Arcadia Valley just north of Injune in Queensland. Thankfully the storms that hit the south east just missed us, which gave us perfect bushwalking weather. Our farmstay at Arcadia Valley Escape was great, we enjoyed a farm tour as well as the amazing bird watching opportunities. Carnarvon Gorge was peaceful and serene and we camped under a star studded sky at Big Bend. The aboriginal artwork and side gorges always amaze us on each and every tour. We look forward to the next very soon.