Tasmanian hiking
Grammar and Ascham pupils pursuing their Gold Duke of Edinburgh International Award relished the challenge of hiking in the central highlands of Tasmania.
During the Term IV holidays, a group of eight pupils from Sydney Grammar School and Ascham flew down to Tasmania under the guidance of Southbound Adventures to complete the Overland Track as the final hike for the Gold Duke of Edinburgh International Award. The trek lasted six days and traversed 60km within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.
Since we were responsible for carrying all our own equipment and food for the duration of the hike, pupils from both schools gathered before our departure to get acquainted, to settle packing lists and meal plans and to have our backpacks properly fitted.
We flew into Launceston and were extremely lucky with the weather, not having a drop of rain for the duration of the trip. However, conditions on the track were still challenging with mud often welling up and sometimes covering our boots due to the heavy rainfalls in the weeks preceding the hike.
The hike was an unforgettable experience. Steep climbs up to Marion’s Lookout and Mt Ossa provided amazing, panoramic views across the Wilderness World Heritage area. The group managed to complete numerous side trips which took us to hidden waterfalls (offering chilly swimming opportunities for the brave amongst us), abandoned mining huts and secluded lakeside lunch spots.
“The trek lasted six days and traversed 60km within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park.”
The group bonded well, particularly over dinner preparations (the beef ragu pasta was a standout). The group even managed to save energy for some highly competitive Uno card games before nightfall, after which all were relieved to collapse into their tents.
Thanks must be given to the wonderful Southbound team of Duncan, Sophie and Hannah who ensured all ran smoothly logistically and that everyone was supported through the hike.
In all, it was a well organised trip which gave us the opportunity to challenge ourselves, make new friends and experience the incredible and pristine scenery of one of Australia’s most iconic hiking trails.
Story by: Nathan Marjoram (VI)
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
