Walker Responsibilities

Prior to the Walk - be prepared

• Be aware of the type of walk planned - degree of difficulty - length - time, and ensure you are capable of completing it

• Always carry:-
              • 1 to 2 litres of water
              • a comprehensive first aid kit (including space blanket)
              • small container with details of your allergies, medication, emergency contact, next of kin
              • wet weather gear
              • warm clothing (preferably thermals - top and bottom)
              • a hat
              • sunscreen
              • ample food
              • a whistle
              • a map covering the walk
              • a compass (and know how to use it)

Useful optional items include -
              • mobile phone
              • garden gloves or work gloves for scrub
              • climbing tape
              • change to pay drivers
              • thermos / morning tea / coffee stuff (almost essential)

• Ambulance cover is strongly recommended
• Ring the leader if the weather is doubtful or if you are meeting at an alternate location
• Check if the leader has changed the walk - this can occur after the leader does a recce.

During the Walk

• Keep the walkers in front and behind in sight - call leader to stop if necessary
• Stay with the leader even if you think he/she is on the wrong route, but raise your concerns with them
• Follow directions given by the leader for the safety and well-being of the group
• Keep a safe distance behind to avoid swinging branches or hurtling into the person in front
• Wait at intersections for the rest of the group to catch up
• If there is a danger of rocks being dislodged on steep slopes - keep area below clear
• Be aware of fellow walkers - if a problem is apparent, advise leader
• Let the leader know if you are having any difficulties
• Let someone know if you temporarily leave the group for any reason
• Take notice of where you are going - improve your navigation skills

ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS - make as little impact as possible by :-
• Carrying out all rubbish
• Not walking over lyrebird mounds or untouched areas of caves or middens
• Not taking plants, cuttings or bush rock
• Extinguishing fires completely - do not build "fairy ring" fireplaces
• Walking in small groups - spread out if practicable when off-track
• Keeping to tracks where they exist - do not take shortcuts