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Pandani Bushwalking Club
EST. in 1992 and walking for pleasure ever since

Events Program

Icon Trip Start Date Duration Grade Walk Distance Description
Overnight - multi-day Walled, Macs and Nereus Thursday 29 October 2026 4 days Hard Multiday

EDIT: This will be rescheduled until the end of 2026 - the trip leader has changed jobs and now has to work on the weekend this is scheduled sadly. Those registered now will get priority for the rescheduled date end of 2026.

This will be my second (and final) attempt at Nereus - I have hiked to the base of Urquarts Mesa two years ago. The hike includes lots of elevation, scree, a very large boulder field off the back of Walled Mountain and skirting around Macs, and then plenty of scrub and a cliff line to negotiate near Nereus.

There will be a dry camp the night prior to summiting Nereus and water sources can be scare or not at all on the summit day so large water carrying capacity is required (and a suitable sized pack & fitness to carry this). There will be long days (12-13 hours) and a very high chance of walking by head torch.

We will meet at Narcisuss at 930am so participants will be required to make their own way to the hut, either by booking a spot on the ferry, kayaking or walking along the Lake side track the day prior.

Priority will be given to folks I have hiked with before on off track alpine and scrub adventures, as this sort of trip is only a success and safe with good team work and the right mix of experience. This is a group activity and everyone will be involved in the scrub bashing, leading & route finding. 

If I haven't walked with you before please make sure to make contact with me prior to registering to discuss the trip requirements and your experiences etc.

Please contact me via email to register for the event and/or join the waitlist. Numbers will be kept small to align with PWS Group size recommendations and LNT principles.

Single Day Hiking Ben Lomond and the Blue Tier Friday 30 October 2026 4 Days Easy - Medium 7-15kms each day

This is another trip to Ben Lomond and the Blue Tier, staying again at the excellent Mine Manager's house in Derby.

As Helen and I now cannot leave Hobart until mid-day on Friday Kate has very kindly accepted my invitation to lead a day walk on Friday, and I have suggested Mt Scott, which is south of Scottsdale near Springfield.  It is a 5km return walk, with a 370 metre climb on a reasonable track through mature man ferns and remnant temperate rainforest.  The track climbs the northern end of Mt Scott to lookout over the north-east.  You can also walk south through the mossy open forest to the true high point at the southern end - that adds another 1.5kms each way, but it is very easy walking.  

Saturday and Sunday will be spent in the Blue Tier.  The walks I have in mind are to the Big Tree (actually, there are lots of them) and Halls' Falls, and probably some of the walks around Mt Poimena down to Weldborough which pass through a mix of lovely old forest and ruins of the tin mines from 100 years ago.

Monday will depend on the weather, but if it is good Plan A will be the walk from Car Villa to the Ben Lomond Plateau and out to Old Bill's Monument.  If that looks a bit too challenging we might go out to Little Hell or just over Legges Tor.  We can leave a car at both ends to enable a through trip.  Plan B if the weather is bad might be to walk through the Derby Tunnel and to visit Cascade Dam, and /or to bag Mt Horror.  There may even be a mystery destination.  

Single Day Hiking Eastern Shore Ramble Tuesday 03 November 2026 approx 5 hrs Medium approx 11 km

Hoping everyone can find the meeting place. Please ring me if any problem. This walk shall proceed over Mornington Hill, then to Knopwood Hill, then return via Howrah Beach and finally part of Waverley Reserve. It should present no problems to experienced walkers. Lunch may be at Howrah Beach where we can take advantage of a nearby cafe for a take-away coffee. 

Single Day Hiking Risdon Brooke Dam walk with lunch Wednesday 04 November 2026 5 hrs with lunch Easy 4km

We’ll have leisurely walk around the dam, either having morning tea before we start or on the way.  Once back at our cars we will head to the Motor Yacht Club of Tasmania, 1 Ford Parade, Lindisfarne, for out lunch.

Single Day Hiking Green Head Thursday 05 November 2026 3 -4 hours Easy - Medium Approx 8

A pleasant amble round a headland on the Tasman Peninsula, starting from Lime Bay. We park at Lime Bay and wander west along a wide track and eventually up through the bush on the lower slopes of Mt Stewart (actually a hill.) We follow the coast line on bush tracks before descending to pleasant beaches with great views of Cremorne and South Arm. A brief detour back into the bush takes us to the northern end of beautiful Lagoon Beach  which we follow for about half its length, before crossing the dunes and into the area of Slopen Lagoons which will probably be dry. The area is named Green Head for the colour of the water rather than the lushness of the vegetation. A walk up the side of the lagoon are brigs us back to Lime Bay, our circuit complete. Coffee at Bangor afterwards for those who would like it.

 

 

 

Single Day Hiking Maria Island Friday 06 November 2026 Multi day walk Medium 7.7kms one way

The event below has been replaced with a two night camp at Darlington Maria Island due to the weather forecast in the Mersey State Forest for the Friday and Saturday.

The Lee's Paddocks Track is on Private Property, and the overnight camp is with permission from the owners. The owner has advised that permission for camping for groups requires that we leave no trace, shut the gates, and please do not share photographs and information of the private property on social media platforms. A poo tube is actively encouraged by the owners for bigger groups. Please contact me if you have questions about this.

This is a fabulous walk close to Mole Creek in the Upper Mersey Valley. The trail is relatively flat, and we will walk through some lovely, varied terrain, including along the Mersey River.

Day 1. We will meet at Mole Creek at 10am (Ann and I will organise carpooling closer to the departure date from the South), and drive to the trailhead which it is approx. 1 hour 47 minutes away.  It will take about 3 hours to walk to the Lewis Lee Hut from the trailhead, where we will set up an outside camp for both nights. Lewis and Oxley Falls are highlights of the track for this day. Bring lunch, dinner, and snacks for this day.

Day 2: A leisurely day, we will explore Devil's Cauldron in the morning and then wander down to Wadley's hut in the afternoon. Bring breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for this day.

Day 3: Pack up camp and return to the cars on the track we walked in. Bring breakfast, snacks, and something you can eat for lunch if needed. Depending on what time we get back to the cars we may have lunch in Deloraine on the way home.

Overnight - multi-day Frenchman Cap Environs bushwalking Saturday 07 November 2026 4 days Hard 60km

We have a permit for 6 people, for Frenchmans Cap from Friday 6th November.  The plan is both fluid and pretty certain as we will be visiting Frenchmans Cap,  Lions Head, Pine Knob, Agamemnon, and Philps Peak, with Davens Cavern, Sharlands Peak and White Needle all a maybe.

Club Member who have previously walked with me in Alpine conditions will be given preference. Unfortunately this walk, as planned, may not suit those new to Tasmanian Alpine bushwalking. I have previously climbed all the 'major' highpoints listed.

Anticipate long days, both tracked and off-track walking, some rock scrambling and vertical exposure, scree, mud, not much scrub, while we will aim to camp at/adjacent to Huts we might by necessity wild camp, and whatever the weather chooses to give us.

Single Day Hiking Wellington Falls from the Springs and Return Monday 09 November 2026 5-6 hours Medium - Hard 13km


Walk begins from the Springs Carpark, up the stone steps and contour the south-facing slopes. This track is quite rocky and uneven in places. 

We will pass Disappearing Tarn before negotiating the Potato Fields. This involves climbing the large rock and scree field. 
Wellington Falls is reached about an hour later after travelling through some light forest. This is Mount Wellington’s largest waterfall and we get great views of it. 
Return trip will involve coming back down the boulder field to return to the cars. 
This walk has lots of rocky sections with an elevation of 623 metres. 

Single Day Hiking Flat Rock Lookouts from East Bagdad Road to Chauncy Vale Tuesday 10 November 2026 5-6 hrs Medium 12-13 kms

A minimum of 5 cars are needed for a car shuffle. Please let me know if you are bringing your car & how many are travelling with you. After meeting at Chauncy Vale Carpark & we pile into 4 cars to the walk start - a car parking area (a bit rough) in East Bagdad Road. It’s about a 15 minute drive. Old logging roads & tracks lead us to the Western & Eastern Lookouts of the Flat Rock Reserve. Then, we retrace some of our steps to the cars we left at Chauncy Vale. On the day, we can decide whether to go back via Browns Caves or Browns Creek. At the walk’s completion one car can take the drivers back to the East Bagdad Road carpark, then they can return to pick up their travelling companions. Please remember to bring a gold coin donation for Chauncy Vale. The collection box is red & located at the CV entrance gate. As part of this walk is on Tasmanian Land Conservancy property, permission to enter will be sought beforehand. 

Category Image The State movie afternoon Tuesday 10 November 2026 4 hours N/A 0

Gather with Pandani friends to see the same movie, or a movie screening at the same time. Then debrief over a tea/coffee/hot chocolate/wine/beer. Nothing serious, just casual & social.

Single Day Hiking Woodbridge Wander Thursday 12 November 2026 4-5 Easy - Medium 8?

I have only done a part recce for this. 

I saw a photo of the SS Laura wreck & thought: "I wonder how you get to that!".  I've found the track & it’s 700m one way . Towards the end,  it is a bit of a challenge as it’s overgrown(a 300m stretch). I have done some pruning. The last 100m is on the rocky shore - not slippery, but uneven of course. Care will be needed to negotiate the track down to this. The plan is to meet at Silverwater Park, pile into 4 cars & drive about 2 kms. The first part is definitely a track. Next we wander along some Woodbridge back roads to look at some older buildings, visit the jetty, follow a well structured path back to the cars. One car will then transport the drivers back to their cars. They will come back & collect their passengers! We pass a street library on this walk, so bring a book to swap if you’d like. Optional coffee after at the cafe in Woodbridge. 

 

Single Day Hiking Bush Skills Camp with Bob Graham Friday 13 November 2026 4 days, 3 nights Easy - Medium ?

This is a car camping event beside the Back River near Buckland, on private property. Plenty of space & clean river water. Bob Graham is the organiser. Ann Vanderburg's role as second organiser is to deal with the admin (website entry etc).  Campsite is 200 meters past river crossing. 2wd ok, but low vehicles can have gear transported.

We might: light a fire without matches; cook without utensils; boil water without a billy; distill drinking water from vegetation or from the soil; navigate through rough, vegetated, untracked country with no map, compass or GPS; find local food to eat; sleep in the open or under an improvised shelter. 

We will have fun learning to appreciate the bush & be observant of our surroundings; discuss our limitations & abilities; share campfire food & drink.  Daywalks will be easy pace, up to 6km, untracked, but open woodland some steep sections,

Nothing is compulsory. 

A flood or bushfire danger will cancel this event.

Single Day Hiking Hartz Track (lower section including Kermandie Falls) Saturday 14 November 2026 4hrs walking Medium - Hard 10km, 600m climb

Note that I haven't walked this track before, so I'm not sure how well it is maintained.

We will do a car shuffle, leaving sufficient cars where the track crosses Bennetts Road to get us back to the start point at the end of the walk. We will start walking from Ogles Road.

I anticipate having an early lunch at Kermandie Falls, followed by a further climb up to Bennetts Road.

Single Day Hiking Macgregor Peak from Tessellated Pavements Sunday 15 November 2026 6hrs Medium - Hard 12km

Drive to Lufra Hotel at Eaglehawk Neck to start the walk. Quick car shuffle of one car to Pettmans Rd, the end of the walk.

We walk across the tessellated pavements, & take a left turn up the side of the beach looking down to Clyde’s Island. Some very steep ups & downs to a lovely beach for morning tea before tackling the ascent to Macgregor Peak.

The track is very steep in parts & requires some rock scrambling, but we are walking through lovely forest whilst doing so.

Lunch on the peak with a spectacular view of Pirates Bay and beyond.

We then descend towards the fire tower through the forest, lots of cutting grass and views north. Instead of heading down to Macgregor Road, we take an alternative route to the car at Pettmans Rd, through dry forest & past a hollow tree, once thought to be of historical significance.

Car shuffle back to Lufra Hotel.

Single Day Hiking Prossers Sugarloaf daywalk Monday 16 November 2026 4 hours + driving Medium 15km

A rarely visited 1 point Peak on the HWC Peak Baggers List in the Wielangta Conservation Area. The bulk of this walk is along old Forestry roads, so a chance to chat as we walk. But the Peak itself is off track for 0.5-1km, open forest, light scrub and some rock, nothing too challenging. If there is enough time and the group feel like it we could also check out the nearby Wielangta Walk.

5-

Single Day Hiking Mount Field East Circuit Tuesday 17 November 2026 5 hours Medium 12km

After a car shuffle at Granton, the walk will start from Mount Field East Carpark area on Lake Dobson Road. This walk is exposed to bad weather  at anytime of the year especially at the summit and over the open section. There is some boulder scrambling in places. We can also take a side trip to Seagers lookout on the way back. 

Single Day Hiking Cape Deslacs short version Wednesday 18 November 2026 2-2.5 Easy Approx 6.5

Join me for a short ramble around Cape Deslacs. We'll meet up at the car park at the Clifton Beach Surf Club and then transfer to a car park closer to Cape Deslacs itself. Although the tracks are to some extent informal bush tracks, there's no climbing to speak of and the bush is fairly open. At one point you have to climb a stile over a fence, but that is the most awkward thing required of you. Some of the walking is via road and open paddocks. We visit a lookout over Clifton Beach, then walk along a clifftop track  to a fence marking off private property which we cross via a stile. We walk out to a point where access to the coastal views ends, where we will have morning tea. We then return to the stile, and then follow another bush track to our cars. There are fantastic views of the coastline, near and far, from the first half of the walk. Picnic lunch at the end of the walk, on the beach itself. 

Overnight - multi-day Blue Tiers multi day car camping Wednesday 18 November 2026 5 Hrs Medium 9K each day

Day 1. We will drive to the Pyengana Recreation ground, which will be our base camp for 3 nights. The Recreation ground has plenty of room for Tents, Campervans and Caravans, $5 per person, per night. For anyone who does not wish to camp the Pub in the Paddock offers accommodation and is only a short walk from the Rec ground. https://pubinthepaddocktas.com.au/accommodation/ 

  After lunch we will leave the Rec ground by 2 pm and car share drive to a waterfall from the campground.  After our walk we will head back to Pyengana Recreation ground and get together after dinner around a campfire.

Day 2 & 3.  There are two nice walks in the Blue Tiers, starting from the now abandoned town of Poimena. A few footings of the buildings remain. It will depend on the weather as to which we do first. Both walks are approx 9 km long and not difficult.  tracks are reasonable but we may encounter fallen trees over the track and a few creek crossings.  We will walk through some beautiful rainforest that  is regenerating strongly after the ravages of tin mining. There are remnants of mining history in this area, which make it quite an interesting area.  There are toilets at the car park at Poimena.  The best road to travel up to Poimena is Lottah Rd via Goulds Country and the distance is 22.6k

 After our walk on day 3, we will have dinner in the Pub in the Paddock.  Please advise me at the time of booking this event, either way if you are going to join us for dinner or not. The pub is just a short walk from the campsite.

We will also visit St Columba Falls at some point. They are only a short drive from the campground. The walk is 20-30 mins return.The falls are more than 90 mtrs, one of Tasmania's highest. The South George River tumbles down in a delightful series of steep cascades. The wall to the base of the falls takes you through shady rainforest that has some of the tallest tree ferns you'll see anywhere. 

Some of the roads are gravel. The only road that was quite rough was down to the Big Tree but we managed ok in 2 WD car's.

Another place of interest, that we may want so visit on the last day before we head of home is the Pyengana Cheese Factory. We may be able to see the cheese being made and have Breakfast/Morning Tea/ Lunch.  They also have some interesting cows.

On the last days walk, for those that want to, we will explore Griffins Tunnel. It has water upto mid calf, so bring either water shoes or a dry pair to change into.

Single Day Hiking Derwent Valley Springtime Saunter Thursday 19 November 2026 4.0 hrs Easy - Medium 6.5 km

Unfortunately my hope to conduct this work on private land at Glenora has been dashed! The farmer has indicated that this is not a suitable time to walk on his land. 

INSTEAD: As I foreshadowed in the original blurb, we will do the three falls circuit at National Park. A bit more driving and a shorter walk. Hopefully it will still be an enjoyable - if different - day. 

Afterward, there can be an optional stop at a conveniently placed cafe.

Overnight - multi-day Rocky Hill & Camp Hill Friday 20 November 2026 4 Days Medium - Hard 35kms

This walk is aimed squarely at two Abels in the Eldon Range - Rocky Hill and Camp Hill.  Assuming good weather, and the party is going well, I'd like to get out to Last Hill as well - but that makes for a very long day.  When we set off depends on the weather, and critically, the height of the Collingwood River.  

Day 1 will see us cross the Collingwood if river conditions are suitable, and walk in from Pigeon House Hill to Rocky Hill.  We can camp on the southern side of Rocky Hill, where an old cut track ascends the spur to the summit.  Water could be an issue, in which case we will use the campsite on the headwaters of the Inkerman River on the eastern shelf of Rocky Hill.

Assuming good weather, Day 2 will see us set off early for Rocky Hill summit and then on to Camp Hill and potentially Last Hill.  Expect plenty of scrub, and a long day.

 Depending on the forecast, Day 3 we could take as a rest day, or to explore around Rocky Hill, or we could simply hightail it out.

Day 4 will see us return to Pigeon House Hill and the cars.

Overnight - multi-day Ben Lomond Plateau Circumnavigation Friday 20 November 2026 3 days Medium - Hard 40-50km

I've long been pondering the possibility of doing this walk. From the Alpine Village walk up Meadow Vale and on to Twelve Trees Moor and the southeast corner of the plateau. Along the way climbing such features as take our fancy. On the second day, continue around the southern edge of the plateau, again climbing such features as takes our fancy. On the final day complete the circuit back to our cars. While I've climbed most of the major features of the plateau, I've never attempted this circuit, nor have I any clear idea if we'll complete the circuit. Campsites and water sources are unknown, but I'm confident we'll work it out. While not a technical bushwalk, participants should anticipate scree, boulder scrambling and scrub. This will be an exploratory walk, suiting people who are competent walkers and are up for a challenge. Preference will be given to Club Members who have previously walked on Alpine walks with the Club.

Single Day Hiking Freycinet Circuit Friday 20 November 2026 3 days Medium 30 kms

Val is now unable to lead this walk and so I will happily take over the organisation. 

We will set up a 2 night base camp at Cooks Beach which will allow for lots of exploring with day packs. A visit to Mt Freycinet and Mt Graham will be possible and a side trip to Bryan's Beach. 

Bring everything you need for a 2 night, 3 day trip including luxury items if you have them, like a hike chair!

This is a different itinerary to the original plan but will still be a great adventure. 

Single Day Hiking Cascades Ramble Saturday 21 November 2026 4.5 hrs approx Medium 10 kms

This ramble will commence from Cascades Brewery carpark at 9.45am. Note: It has come to my attention that the Hobart Christmas Pageant is on this date also. Please try to be  at the walk meeting spot about 9.30am although if passing through Hobart you may need to be creative in order to avoid the pageant. After start we shall head towards Huon Rd and follow the walking track as far as Strickland Avenue. Then up either the Fingerpost track or the nearby Bracken Lane trail. We shall visit O'Grady's Falls then down to Strickland Falls and then follow tracks  and small off-track section to bottom of Myrtle Gully track. Possible side trip to Hidden Falls. After lunch we follow the excellent Cascades track back to our cars. The walk is rated medium only because of the gain in height and the homeward track will be easy.

Single Day Hiking Hartz Pk & Mt Snowy Monday 23 November 2026 6 hrs plus driving Medium 11.5km

This is a rescheduled walk due to poor weather forecast for original date in September. We will start from the main Hartz NP car park, and ascend Hartz Peak via the main track. We then effectively head off track over a boulder field to the summit of Mt Snowy, must be confident on rocks. Our path back will descend to the saddle, and then head north-east to return to the main track via Emily and Ladies Tarns. This section is taped, may be muddy, indistinct and somewhat overgrown. Parts of this walk are very exposed, and the walk will only take place if weather is reasonable. 

Single Day Hiking Cape Connella (Bruny Island) Tuesday 24 November 2026 6 h Medium - Hard 12 km

This walk along the east coast of Bruny Island explores the top of extensive and spectacular clifflines.

The meeting time is early but necessary to get the 7:50 ferry to Bruny so we can start walking by about 9:00.  Maybe half of this walk is on well-formed tracks but the rest is only faintly marked and quite rough under foot so out of caution has been graded Medium-Hard.

We start at the south end of Adventure Bay and walk south along the Slide Track (former timber tramway) before turning east towards the coast.  After a brief pause at Bev's Lookout for entrée we move onto to Cape Connella for the main course of spectacular coastal views.  There are many more lookout points to snack on as we head north along the cliffline to Fluted Cape where we join the tourist track to return to Adventure Bay.

Category Image Movie afternoon at The State Tuesday 24 November 2026 4 hours N/A 0

Gather with Pandani friends to see the same movie, or a movie screening at the same time. Then debrief over a tea/coffee/hot chocolate/wine/beer. Nothing serious, just casual & social. Group may decide to change screening time.

Single Day Hiking Higgs Track and WOJ Wednesday 25 November 2026 5 days/4 nights Medium 40+

A four night exploration of the Higgs track to Lake Nameless where we will camp for Night 1.  We will then try and find an old stock route called Ritters Track and proceed through to Lake Gwendy where we will base camp for 2 nights. 

From Lake Gwendy we will day walk in this area, past Lake Butters and head towards Mount Jerusalem and then possibly follow a different route back to the tents.

From there we will back track towards Lake Nameless, possibly camping at Westons Lake, Lake Lucy Long or Lady Lake for our final night.  Walk out on the Higgs Track

Single Day Hiking Falls and Lakes at Hartz Thursday 26 November 2026 6/7 hrs with travel Medium 12km

We will meet in Davey Street and car pool from there.  Reconvening at Geeveston before heading to the carpark at Arve Falls and then on to Hartz visitors area.  From there we will head out to Ladies Tarn and Lake Esperance.  We retrace our steps before heading to Lake Osborne.  Once back to the cars, time permitting, we will stop for coffee in Geeveston then homeward bound.

Single Day Hiking Southern Ranges Friday 27 November 2026 7 days plus travel Hard 88

Seven days, 90km, 6053 m elevation gain with some pads, some scrub, off track hiking, mud, and five Abels and stunning vistas. There may also be a cheeky birthday whiskey on one of the nights and celebration as some folks get close to the end of their Abels journey..

Group size will be kept small to minimise impact with off track activities and campsite sizes, with priority given to Pandani members and those I have walked with before offtrack. There are several trips on the program throughout the year in the lead up to this.

If I haven't walked with you before on a multi day hike please make contact with me via SMS or email (before registering for the event) to chat about your experience and gear requirements.   

More info on the rough itinerary here: https://rockmonkeyadventures.wordpress.com/2013/12/07/southern-ranges-30-november-6-december-2013/

Single Day Hiking Mt Rufus circuit Saturday 28 November 2026 7-8 hours Medium - Hard 19

Mt Rufus and Shadow Lake make a fun and varied alpine circuit. We have approximately 800m of elevation gain to the summit of Mt Rufus (1416m) which should offer rewarding views in good weather. Expect it could be cold and windy  up top as it is an exposed alpine environment. This is a long walk with a big climb but also a long day of driving, so be prepared for a big day out. 

Single Day Hiking Lake Dobson Hut Base-Camp Day Walks Monday 30 November 2026 3 Nights N/A Various

3 NIGHTS STAY IN THE HOBART WALKNG CLUB'S HUT AT LAKE DOBSON

The hut is located at the northern end of Lake Dobson about 10 minutes walk from the car park. The hut has 2 seperate sleeping and eating area's and is a very cosy location from which to explore any number of easy or more challenging day walks.

It is expected that the walks being done each day will have been chosen by participants and coordinators. The are walks ranging from Easy, Medium and Medium-Hard but will be dependant on the coordinators available. Val Latham has kindly offered to do a walk from Lake Fenton to Lake Dobson via Lake Webster. We can discuss specific walks before we go but hopefully we can all have fun doing the ones we like.

This event is best suited to those who are comfortable with communal sleeping and eating areas. The hut is very well equiped with all, plates, cutlery, crockery pots n pans. There is a gas stove with oven and a large wood burning heater in each of the 2 wings. There is lighting, there is tonnes of firewood on hand, there are two indoor toilets, there is a private area for freshening up. There are also books and games. To make evening meals preparation simpler it may prove helpful if some folk combine efforts and make a shared meal, plenty of time to discuss that. The hut is the property of the Hobart Walking Club, they built it and they maintain it, we all need to be mindful that we need to stick to the HWC guidelines while we are there. There will be a briefing on the do's and don'ts once we settle in. We can decide on car sharing later on, return distance from Hobart is around 185 K's . Please bring  a clean set of clothes and shoes for the trip home which may include an Icecream stop at the Westaway Raspberry Farm. For non HWC members the cost is $20 per night.

An initial payment of $30 is required when you register to confirm your place, please email me on tobobdon@outlook.com and I will let you know how to pay. The $30 balance should be paid by November 23. 

Single Day Hiking Coastal walk Lewisham to Spectacle Head Tuesday 01 December 2026 5 hours Medium 15km

Meeting at Cambridge Park ready to leave at 8.30 to car pool to Lewisham Boat Ramp 

this is a coastal walk along tracks ,beaches and some rocky outcrops.

Beautiful views along the way , we will pass Okines Beach, Tiger Beach

Tiger Beach Head, Red Ochre Beach and finally Spectacle Head where we will have lunch . Morning tea will be at the appropriate time ,

We return a similar way . This walk is all tide dependent, if we walk on the beach or the coastal tracks 

Distance approx 14 km

Height Gain 200. Approx 

Single Day Hiking Egeria cruise and lunch Wednesday 02 December 2026 4 hours Easy 1

We will board the Egeria to leave at 11.00 am and cruise upstream taking in the sights above the bridge.

return at 12.00 noon for lunch at Motor Yacht Club

Cost will be $50 which is lunch and cruise, drinks extra.

Single Day Hiking Mt Field East Thursday 03 December 2026 6 hours Medium 8 km

We will car pool from Tynwald Park at New Norfolk, with a travel time of approx 1 hour to the track start at Lake Fenton along the Lake Dobson Road.  A steady uphill climb from Lake Fenton takes us up through light forest to Windy Moor (which is now board walk). A rocky scree slope needs to be climbed to reach the summit of Mt Field East at 1274 metres above sea level (this is steep in some sections). We will have lunch on top to enjoy the views.  Return is via the same route.  I have allowed 6 hours to complete the walk so we can go at a steady but leisurely pace to enjoy the walk. The elevation gain over the walk is approx 300 metres.

Please note:

 - walkers will need a good level of fitness, be sure footed with good balance as the track is uneven, can be muddy and scree slopes need to negotiated (both up and down)

 - Windy Moor and Mt Field East are very exposed so ensure you have appropriate gear (it could be warm, it could be cold, it could be windy)

 - Parks Pass required

Single Day Hiking Mt Hugel - and Maybe Mt Rufus Saturday 05 December 2026 2 days Medium - Hard 15km

This is a reprise of an earlier trip stymied by weather.  The plan is to climb Mt Hugel which is just north-west of Cynthia Bay at Lake St Clair.   It can be climbed in a day with an early start, but what I would like to do is walk in to Shadow Lake and camp there on the Saturday, and climb Hugel and Little Hugel on Sunday before packing up and walking out.

But I'd like to preserve some flexibility - if the good weather is on Saturday I'd like to drive up on Friday, camp at Fergy's Paddock, climb Hugel on Saturday and then if the weather is still suitable climb Mt Rufus as a through trip to the Lyell Highway.

We should have plenty of daylight, so we will need to move steadily rather than quickly, but expect 10 hours for Hugel and 8 for Rufus. 

Single Day Hiking Eastern Shore Ramble 2 Saturday 05 December 2026 4.5 hrs approx Easy - Medium 10 kms

This walk will help to finish off a great year of walks. The start time will allow time to catch the ferry to Bellerive from Brooke St Pier, departing at 9.00 am. For drivers, the fenced parking area  at Kangaroo Bay allows free all day parking. We will congregate near the children's play park area. Possible cafe at Cocomo (near Bellerive ferry terminal) after walk. The walk itself will include parts of the old Golf Course area, Flagstaff Gully, and Gordon's Hill. Will try to include a walkable route suitable for most general walkers. Will appoint a tail end charley if considered necessary. Weather may be warmish in December (light top & trousers, sunglasses etc).

Category Image Prince of Wales Bay Seakayaking Sunday 06 December 2026 5 hours Kayaking - River 20km

A casual paddle over about 4 hours, building on individual kayaking skills and exploring Prince of Wales Bay and the River Derwent between Wilkinson Point and Cornelian Bay.

This activity is weather dependent.

Note; I have paddled most, if not all, of this area before.

Single Day Hiking Cathedral Rock Monday 07 December 2026 5 hours Medium 8.5km return

After a car shuffle we start from Betts Road in Lesley Vale. Parking is limited. We start the walk by wandering around North West Bay River through lovely forest. After leaving the river, the track joins onto a fire trail climbing steeply, zig-zagging up Betts Hill, before reaching the saddle at the base of Cathedral Rock. The final 300 metre climb is steep and rocky. Good views over Mount Wellington towards Collin’s Bonnet. Return via the same route. 

Single Day Hiking Kunanyi Wildflower Season Circuit Tuesday 08 December 2026 4.5 hrs Medium 10 km

This is a popular walk, and if waratah is flowering at a "normal" date it can be spectacular - although early flowering this year may mean the waratah is not quite so fresh!  But other wildflowers are lovely too.

The allowable number of 24 is larger than usual for Pandani walks because and we will walk in two groups of 12 in opposite directions, meeting for lunch - one group with me and one with Peter Dowling. 

We will follow the Organ Pipes Track, Zig-Zag Track and Panorama Track. The latter is the most challenging and some walkers prefer it ascending; others descending. The same is true for the Zig-Zag!

If the weather is unsuitable for exposed walking at higher altitudes we will change to a route lower on the mountain. 

Category Image Movie afternoon at The State Tuesday 08 December 2026 4 hours N/A 0

Gather with Pandani friends to see the same movie, or a movie screening at the same time. Then debrief over a tea/coffee/hot chocolate/wine/beer. Nothing serious, just casual & social. The group may choose to change screening time.

Single Day Hiking Hobart Rivulet from Cascades Wednesday 09 December 2026 3.5 hrs Easy 5.4 km

We’ll meet at the entrance to Cascade Gardens & start our walk through the park & follow the Hobart Rivulet.

The track is a gradual downhill all the way to Molle St. and takes in several places of historical interest; a Korean War Memorial, the Female Factory, an old tannery and plenty of interpretative signs along the route. The rivulet is renown for its resident platypus, so we might be lucky and spot one.

I propose to have morning tea at The Hamlet Cafe which is a lovely venue and supports workers with disabilities. After tea we will return the same way & take in the magnificent views of Mt Wellington. 

We can have lunch in the park near our cars, or there could be an option to eat at Cascade Brewery. I am erring on the side of a picnic lunch in the park, but am happy to go with a group decision.

Single Day Hiking Lavender Farm Sorell Thursday 10 December 2026 5 Easy - Medium 8

TBA

Category Image PBC Christmas Party Friday 11 December 2026 3 hours Easy 0

Our Christmas Party is the Club's biggest Social event of the year. A chance to meet up with friends old and new, and reminisce about the years activities. Finger food, drinks and 'Christmas Cake' will be provided. Awards, both humorous and serious will be presented and celebrated. 
Your Committee look forward to welcoming all Members to our Christmas Party, having all the food eaten, all awardees celebrated and the 2026 calender year finished with good cheer all round.

To assist with catering, Registration by the end of November would be appreciated, but we will be pleased to accept Registrations in December. All Members are welcome.

Single Day Hiking Coronets - Summer solstice (early) Saturday 12 December 2026 14 hours plus travel Hard 13

We had this on the program for last year but had to postpone due to weather, so this is take 2. A full day starting going over the Sentinels, and then off track via scrub, buttongrass and some more scrub. Don't be fooled by the low km's, this walk goes up and down all day and is a full day of altitude and scrub.

We'll have boots on and start walking no later than 6am to miss the heat and due to the duration of the walk. It is strongly recommended that you stay close to the start line the night prior to allow an early start and due to the travel times. I will be carcamping before and after the walk in the area.

We'll be moving at a steady pace to try and get back before sundown so please keep this in mind before signing up. The stat's from previous walkers are: 12.9km, approx 13 hrs, 1392m elevation gain. More info here: https://rockmonkeyadventures.wordpress.com/2013/07/01/coronets-11-november-2013/

If I haven't walked with you before, please make contact (SMS or email) prior to registering to chat about your experience and gear required, this is for safety purposes and so everyone has a great hike. 

Single Day Hiking Sea to Summit Saturday 12 December 2026 5-6 hours Medium - Hard 17km

This walk is a repeat of the very enjoyable inaugural Sea to Summit event last year. This event will involve a car shuffle that will involve cars left at the springs and at the summit. We will start our walk at sea level in Sandy Bay then by using a variety of trails, tracks and roads, we will make our way up to the summit of Kunyani/Mt Wellington in hopefully the shortest way possible. There will be toilet facilities on the way and places to stop, such as The Waterworks, Fern Tree and the Springs where we can have a drink, rest and food. The plan will be to have morning tea at Ferntree and Lunch at the Springs before the last push up the Zig Zag track to the summit.  Last year we managed to make it back down the mountain in time for a celebratory beverage.  

Single Day Hiking Coal Falls daywalk Monday 14 December 2026 6 hours + driving Medium - Hard 10km

As happens. I came across a reference to Coal Falls while looking for something else. Located high on the southern ramparts of the Ben Lomond Plateau. This walk will initinally involve a gentle climb through open forest followed by an extensive rock scramble and climb onto the plateau - not a technical scramble, nor too daunting, thu' definitely extensive and requiring a moderate level of fitness. Then an offtrack wander along the cliff top, before descending along the creek line to locate three waterfalls. The middle falls being Coal Falls. Continue following the creek to the forest below, before making our way, offtrack, back to the car(s).

Highest elevation 1375m, lowest elevation ~840m. Note, I've not been to Coal Falls before, thu' I've climbed all the southern Bluffs of the Ben Lomond Plateau several times. 

Single Day Hiking Pack Track - Lake Dobson, Lake Webster & Lake Fenton Tuesday 15 December 2026 5hrs Medium 10km

Please note, there is a stream/river crossing, the track is quite rocky in parts, particularly towards Lake Fenton, and there are plenty of ups & downs, but nothing very steep. A good medium walk.


Meet at Granton to car pool & head up to Lake Dobson. We will leave a car at Lake Fenton & car shuffle drivers to pick up cars at the end of the walk.

We’ll walk from Lake Dobson through the Pandani grove along the Lake Webster track. Views of the Rodways & other peaks.  We might detour to Platypus Tarn along the way, and then to Lake Seal for morning tea. On to Lake Webster, where we cross the Broad River. I’m hoping that it won’t be too ‘broad’, but we might get wet feet.

We then start the return walk along the Lake Fenton track, crossing Kangaroo Moor where we should see plenty of flowers in bloom. We pass close to Lake Fenton before arriving at the car park. 
Walkers will stay here whilst drivers pick up cars from Lake Dobson.

Single Day Hiking Xmas Short Walk with Lunch at Howrah Thursday 17 December 2026 2-4 hours Easy 4.5 kms approx

This is a short, easy walk from Wentworth Park Playground (NOT the sports grounds) via the beach and bike tracks along to Bellerive and then via footpaths to Bellerive Bluff Fort. We will have morning tea there whilst enjoying the amazing view and some may also like to explore the nooks and crannies of the historic site before we return to Wentworth Park for our picnic lunch. As always this is an opportunity to socialise with fellow walkers at the end of another great walking year so please come for the walk & stay for lunch or do either the walk only or lunch only, very flexible so please join me for whatever suits your busy calendar at that time.

Overnight - multi-day K2 and K3 Thursday 17 December 2026 5 days Hard 35km

We are going to explore the southern part of the King William Range.

Day 1 Get in as far as Divide creek Day 2 Up onto the range and camp past K2 Day 3 Day walk to K3 Day 4 Move to Lake Anne and do Slatters Peak Day 5 Head home.

Single Day Hiking King William and Mount Pitt Saturday 19 December 2026 2 days Hard Approx 14km

The walk starts off Harbacks Road which is about 1.5km South off the Lyell Highway. Track starts with a gradual climb on a fire trail, before heading up to the summit (562m). After the summit we will be off track for the rest of the walk. Expect rocky patches, boulders and low scrub. We will camp at the tarn just before Wessex tarn. From here our back drop will be fabulous views of Frenchman’s Cap. Once camp has been set up, I intend to climb Mount Pitt and then return to camp.  I have not done the final climb but have been close to the start of it. 
Day 2 we will retrace our steps. 

As we are camping at altitude and on an exposed plateau, participants that have not walked with me before should contact me for experience and gear check prior to walk. 

Single Day Hiking A circuit walk, from the Springs via several tracks (including Hunters Track) Tuesday 22 December 2026 6-7 hours Medium 11 -12 kms

A circuit walk from The Springs .At this time of the year we should see our beautiful Tasmanian Waratahs (Telopea truncata), as well as many other native flowers in bloom. I intend to go along the Lenah Valley Track to Junction Cabin (morning tea here) then up The Hunter Track to the Chalet. The Hunter Track means some walking over boulders. We will take care and take our time over this section. After lunch at The Chalet we will walk along the Organ Pipes Track, where there are usually lots of Waratahs blooming . We then head down the Pinnacle Track and back to The Springs to the cars - and potentially, a coffee at Lost Freight

Category Image Movie afternoons at The State Tuesday 22 December 2026 4 hours N/A 0

Gather with Pandani friends to see the same movie, or a movie screening at the same time. Then debrief over a tea/coffee/hot chocolate/wine/beer. Nothing serious, just casual & social. The group may decide to change screening time.

Single Day Hiking Tramway Track Thursday 24 December 2026 4 hours approx Easy - Medium 12km

Walk is a gently undulating in/out track, which can get a little muddy after rain. We will wander through dry Eucalypt forest and rainforest, following a section of the historic Kaoota Tramway. 
As parking is limited at the start we will meet at Sandfly Hall 9.30 to organise a car shuffle. 

Single Day Hiking Clumner Bluff and environs Monday 28 December 2026 3 Days Medium - Hard 15.8kms

It is usual to do Clumner Bluff as a day trip up the face from Lake Rowallen.  This time I'd like to approach it from the south, via Solitary Man hut and Tiger Lake, or from the east via the Fisher River and Mersey Crag.  I'll do a recce to figure out which route is best - or the most interesting.

The Plateau in summer is usually a wonderful place to be, and the area around the Walls of Jerusalem, especially toward Clumner Bluff and the peaks and lakes further north and east are a wonderful playground.

Although the first part of either approach is on a good track, that will not last and you should expect some scrub, boulders, and magnificent views.

Those who have not walked with me before are encouraged to get in touch beforehand.

Single Day Hiking Lower Wellington Ramble Tuesday 29 December 2026 approx 4.5 hrs Medium approx 11 km

TBA. Expected to be a circuit which will terminate at the meeting spot.

Single Day Hiking Neirinna Creek and Margate Rivulet Tracks Thursday 31 December 2026 3-4 hours approx Easy - Medium 11km approx

We will car share, from the meeting place to the top of the Neirinna Creek Track  where there is limited parking and make our way down, a few little steep ups for those who prefer.  Morning tea on some steps on the track.  Lunch probably at the dam.  Cross over to the Margate Rivulet Track and walk to Brook Lane.  Return across Davis Flats and down to the Channel Highway, hence make our way to the cars.  Coffee at either Hopfields Brewery or the Margate Train for those who wish.

Single Day Hiking Mount Sprent Tuesday 05 January 2027 4 hours walking Medium - Hard 7-8km

On a good day this is a superb day walk with great views over Lake Pedder.  Long drive to get to the start point but worth it.  More details to follow........

Single Day Hiking Thark Ridge & Devils Throne Tuesday 05 January 2027 5-6 hrs Medium 10km

Meet at Big Bend car park at the start of the track.
We will follow Thark Ridge Track to Municipal Cairn and have morning tea.
A bit more walking, a turn off to Roaring Creek valley and then up to Devils Throne for lunch with its fantastic views.

Return via the track over the saddle back to Thark Ridge Track.

The route is rocky, so poles & confidence hopping over boulders would be good. There is also a fair bit of scrub, so we will be walking at a medium pace. 

I’ll be doing a recce of this walk in a few weeks time, so will update information then.

Single Day Hiking Short Walk and Lunch Wednesday 06 January 2027 4-5 hours Easy N/A

I am planning to walk along the river at New Norfolk followed by lunch at the Bush Inn. I will update the details when I have all the info - watch this space! 

Single Day Hiking Lake Fergus Hut - Easy Overnight Friday 08 January 2027 2 days, 1 night Easy - Medium 20km

As a fan of old huts, I have had this one on the list to visit for a while.

Located at Lake Fergus, Central Highlands, access is via an old track up beside the Little Pine River. Start at Little Pine Dam, cross the river and follow the Western shore of Little Pine Lagoon. Note that we will be on private property, but there is a 20m public access zone along the track, and 30 metre access zone around the lake itself. The walk-in is 9.5km and takes about 3 hours. There is camping nearby.

History of the hut is limited but it was built by fishermen, and is in very regular use by them today.

A chance for people new to overnight hiking, or returning to overnight hiking after a break. Fairly flat walking, but located in an area subject to very changeable weather so be prepared for everything!

Single Day Hiking Mt Anne Circuit Thursday 14 January 2027 4 Days Hard 30kms

This is the classic Mt Anne circuit.  My intention is to climb all the peaks - conditions permitting.  So you will need to be fit, confident on steep exposed scrambles, and willing to assist others as needs be.  While I have done the circuit before it was a very long time ago and a revisit is certainly in order.  The views from each of the peaks are indeed spellbinding; and while it can be done in three days it is such a special place I would like to take four - and walk out to Lot's Wife, which I've not climbed.

The circuit has been booked with Parks on their new registration platform.  Six is the maximum.

This is a sensitive, alpine area, also subject to a lot of visitation.  We all need to look after it.  In the spirit of "if you walk it in, you can walk it out", and wanting to leave this area as nature created it, I am mandating poo tubes for this trip.  If that is something you need help with, ask.     

I have added Ronnie Sammut and Ai-Ming to this event ahead of time as Ronnie has very kindly offered to help with the infamous 'Notch' with a climbing rope and harness - if required.   

Single Day Hiking Greystone Bluff Friday 22 January 2027 6 Days Hard 50kms

I last visited this area in 1985 - and did not get to the Bluff due to an injury to one of the party - caused by scrub.

The basic plan is to walk in to the Crossing River campsite on Day 1, and from there head down the Old Port Davey track toward the watershed, but then head off-track towards the Bluff with the intention of camping as close as we can get.  Then trying to climb Greystone as a day trip from there.

It is possible to continue - and even to do a more epic circuit of the White Monoliths - to Mt Maconochie and I'll think about that, but the full circuit I will leave to the more adventurous types with younger legs.

If you have not walked with me before, please get in touch before booking on this trip.  You will need to be walking fit, and able to handle very scrubby and difficult conditions. 

Overnight - multi-day Little Cinder Hill & Cinder Hill Friday 22 January 2027 8 days Hard 70km

This walk is an extension of Joes Greystone Bluff walk. So, if you are up for a bit more pain, we will be doing Little Cinder Hill and Cinder Hill as a day walk from the plains near Greystone Bluff. (Camp will be at Pine creek somewhere) Keep in mind the scrub for the Cinders has a bad reputation. This could be a 9 day walk because if the Davey river is crossable, we will have a crack at Piners Peak and Propsting range as a day walk.

Single Day Hiking Mt Rufus via Gingerbread Hut Saturday 23 January 2027 5-6 hours Medium 15km

Gingerbread Hut is located near the summit of Mt Rufus in the Cradle Mt-Lake St. Clair National Park.  It was built by members of the Mount Rufus Ski Club who were mainly employees of the Hydro Electric Commission based at Bronte Park and Tarraleah.  It was constructed with the intention of using it as a ski tow hut, however the tow was never built.

We will be accessing this track via the Rufus Canal. The track is usually very muddy in parts across the button grass so if you normally use hiking poles, please bring them for extra stability.

Once we find the hut, we will continue on to the summit of Mt Rufus before returning the way we came back to the cars.

There is a reasonably long drive (5 hours return) so be prepared for a long day out with plenty of food and water for the trip. Do not book if you need to be back in Hobart for any dinner plans as we may be later than the 7pm expected return time due to conditions on the track.

Single Day Hiking The Needles - Eastern Arthurs Wednesday 03 February 2027 5 days Hard TBC

A multi day hike to visit the Needles and some of the HWC peaks as time permits along the Eastern Arthurs. A booking for six people has been made via the PWS Registration system. This walk will have plenty of mud, some boardwalk, some scree and boulder scrambling, river crossings and long days and km's with potentially changing weather and awesome vistas that can be found with hiking in SW Tassie and the Arthurs. Please make sure to have an extra day in your pocket and no hard fast plans for day 6 in case of bad weather or river levels.

I know some folks will need to organise annual leave and/or family commitments as February is a busy time of year so early registration has been set up.

Please get in touch with me via email or SMS (I work remotely and on shift work so no phone calls please) if you are interested in registering for the walk prior to completing the registration. 

Preference will be given to those I have walked with in alpine conditions before given the nature of the walk. There are lots of walks on the program throughout the year to come along to and get to know members and the trip leader prior to this walk..

 

 

 

 

Single Day Hiking Lunch walk TBA Wednesday 03 February 2027 5+ including lunch Easy 5-7

Tba

Single Day Hiking Schnells Ridge Tuesday 09 February 2027 6-7 hours walking? Medium - Hard 14km (ish)

After a couple of hours driving the walk starts at Red Tape Creek (start of the Lake Judd track on the road to Scotts Peak Dam), taking right fork up the long ridge line just after the Anne River crossing to Schnell's Ridge.  Magnificent views in all directions at the top.  Choice of returning via the same route or (more interesting but longer) descending to Lake Judd before returning to Red Tape Creek.  I have done both versions several times

Long day for sure including the driving but, on a good day, magnificent!

More details to follow......

Single Day Hiking Exploring near George Town Wednesday 10 February 2027 4 days, 3 nights Easy - Medium Up to 34 Kms

The walks are a mix of Medium and Easy-Medium grades. I organised a similar multiday event a few years ago and met a local who told me about a "tessellated pavement" on the coast north of George Town. Since then, I have done 2 recces trying to find the best way to get to it and have found a way that I think will be work. As this location is dependent on the tides - we MUST time our walk to be there at low tide (hence the dates chosen)

DAY 1 (Wed 10th Feb): Meet at Campbell Town at 9:30. Drive north to Mt Direction (a site that was part of the semaphore system in the early 1800s). The track is about 4 kms rtn; ascent 260 m. You might consider this a MEDIUM walk, not because of the distance, but the fact that it is a "sustained climb over 250 m". However, there are a few seats on the way! At the top you will see a cairn, a well, a semaphore mast & the ruins of a stone cottage. It's well worth the effort.  Lunch - probably at the summit.

Next stop, a bit further north, is Mt George (another site of the semaphore system). You can drive close to the top, but we are a walking club, so we'll park at the start of the George Town Mountain Bike Trails & take the Keystone track (3 kms rtn; 150m ascent) to the summit - the site of a lookout, a semaphore mast. The remains of a cold cellar & stone garden-walls. Grade: EASY-MEDIUM. 

Next, we drive to East Beach Tourist Park. Allan & I are going to stay in our camper in the unpowered section - a sheltered spot next to the coastal vegetation. There's also a large camp kitchen nearby which may be good for us to use if it rains. The EB Tourist Park also has powered sites & cabins. The Tourist Park is right next to a beach - a great spot for a swim. 

DAY 2 (Thurs 11 Feb): Walk 1 (E-M) from east Beach to Bell Bouy Beach & return; 8.5 kms; flat, dunes, beach, some rocky parts. Walk 2 (E) from EBTP to Pilot Station. Explore site & museum (Entry approx $3). Then walk to Lighthouse & visit Foghorn & Educational Buildings; explore headlands. All up about 4 kms. 

DAY 3 (Fri 12 Feb):                                                                                                                                            OPTION 1: Five Mile Bluff (M; 10.5 kms; a mixture of terrain - sand, rocks, rough grassy tracks, knee height vegetation; no track). This walk is on a coastal reserve. There is one tricky headland that we have to negotiate. Its rocks are treacherous. We won't be going that way - I've tried it! On the second recce, we came back via a steep vegetated spot. That wasn't good either! I think we'll try the gully which leads to the narrow coastal reserve. On the way to the "tessellated pavements" at Five Mile Bluff, we pass some rock pools (only visible at low tide). Some are large enough to snorkel in. We'll explore them on the way back.                                                                                OPTION 2: If you're not feeling confident about the Five Mile Bluff walk, here's an alternative. The walk into George Town is 6kms & its flat. The last section of this track is called to Kanamaluka Track (aboriginal name for the Tamar River). You'll probably clock up another 2kms walking around town. Things to do: the Monument near town is a good spot for morning tea; in town a couple of coffee shops should be open (Cafe 1069; The Signature Cafe); the Bass & Flinders Museum (entry approx $6) is excellent; Watch House Museum (Entry $3); op shops;  George Town Art & Artisans)

That night, for those who would like to eat out, we can decide on a venue closer to the time & I'll make a booking  

DAY 4 (Sat 12th Feb): Pack up & leave EBCP by 10.                                                                                                    If you haven't been to the Bass & Flinders Museum, I would highly recommend doing so as you leave today.            Allan & I plan to go to the Clarendon Arms (Evandale) for breakfast. You are welcome to join us. 

Category Image Forensic science talk Wednesday 10 February 2027 2 Hrs N/A 0km

TBA

Single Day Hiking Kingston Ramble Thursday 11 February 2027 4 Easy - Medium 10kms

More information to come 

Category Image Gordon River & Macquarie Harbour Seakayaking Saturday 13 February 2027 9 days Kayaking - River up to 100km

After the success of our 2026 expedition to the Gordon River & Macquarie Harbour and the interest shown by Club Members I'm going to put the trip on again following, the same, successful, formula.

Drive to Strahan, unpack our kayaks and gear, car shuffle to have vehicles at both Macquarie Heads and Strahan, embark on the yacht Stormbreaker. Cross Macquarie Harbour to travel up the beautiful Gordon River to Sir John Falls.

As we discovered in 2026, what happens next is very weather forecast dependent. We could spend a day exporing upstream of Sir John Falls, or we might start paddling down stream, or we might be weather bound in the Hydro Hut near Sir John Falls. It's all part of the journey. There are a number of potential campsites on the Gordon River, including Eagle Creek, Snag Point, Pine Landing - which ones we use will be dictated by the group, the weather and our final (draft) itinerary.

Once we reach Macquarie Harbour we have a number of options available to us involving either the west or east shore and what we choose will dictated by the group and the weather.

The distances we paddle each day aren't excessive, allowing time to have lazy starts, early finishes, time to explore and the opportunity to make changes to the itinerary - think 15-20km per day. Now having said that, the weather may dictate that we need to paddle 20-30km in a day, skipping a planned campsite. The lower Gordon River and Macquarie Harbour are subject to winds and waves which can be a challenge - to deal with this we could sart paddling at sunrise, start paddling at lunch, combine two days into one, stay put for a day (or two), or just put our heads down our back into it and paddle.

In 2026 Southwest Expeditions quoted $300 per person to transfer us from Strahan to Sir John Falls. Anticipate a cost that is a little more than this for this 2027 trip.

Preference will be given to Club Members who have previously paddled with me on a Club Seakayaking Avtivity. It is assumed that all participants will put in a little training prior to this expedition, accustoming their bodies to spending at least 2 hours in the kayaks between landings.

Note: the Club has a seakayaking activity on the Program roughly every four weeks for people to just get out there and paddle, meet other Club paddlers, visit some interesting and beautiful places, plus get more accustomed to their seakayaks. I also have two 5.2m rota-moulded seakayaks available if a Member would like to attend but doesn't have a suitable kayak.

Single Day Hiking Dial Ranges & Leven River Tuesday 16 February 2027 2 nights, 3 days Medium 15+ km

Meet at Mt Gnomon Farm & set up camp. I will confirm details of cost etc later. Expect $25/night

Short àfternoon walk to Thorsby’s Tunnel at Ferndene Reserve.

This is about an hour but passes through some beautiful man-ferns to a couple of tunnels used back in the silver mining days.

Day 2 - walk to Mt Dial & Mt Montgomery. About 10.5-11km walk taking about 6hrs.

We will walk up and along an escarpment to Mt Dial (482m) which offers beautiful views both down to Keddies Creek at the base of the escarpment & out towards the Bass Strait. On the way back we will take a detour to the summit of Mt Montgomery (471m) & then return the same way back to our cars.

Day 3 - morning walk along the Leven River - the first section of the Penguin Cradle Trail.

We will pack up camp & head to the trailhead of the Penguin Cradle Track. The walk today follows the Leven River as it winds its way through the valley. The footpath is reasonably well trodden, but gaiters would be a good idea as I’m not sure how much plant growth there will be since my last visit. We can walk as far as we want, but there is a good spot for morning tea about 5km in, so expect about a 10km wander.

Back to the cars & head home.

Single Day Hiking Festival of Maccas (FoM) - Arm River Education Centre Friday 26 February 2027 4 days, 3 nights Remote Varied

Festival of Maccas 2027 - new location, new adventures!

The Arm River Outdoor Education Centre is located within Arm River Regional Reserve in the Central Highlands, approximately 850m up Maggs Road.

Provided facilities:
Camping style accommodation outside and 26 beds available in the upstairs bunkhouse.
Male and female showers and toilets with hot and cold running water.

The kitchen area has a fridge, electric stove with oven, and microwave oven. Washing up and food  storage areas cater for large groups. Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service does not supply any cook wear, plates, bowls, knives, forks, spoons, cooking utensils, dishwashing liquid or tea towels. 

Large dining room equipped with tables and chairs and a wood heater (provide your own wood) adjoins the kitchen. Chairs are in poor condition.
Outdoor barbecues and clothes lines are located close by.

Please bring any other items that are required, including toilet paper and cleaning supplies.

Accommodation fees* are:
 $15.40 (inc GST) per adult PER NIGHT
 $5.50 (inc. GST) per person camping (tent or motorhome) PER NIGHT.

Please indicate when booking if you are camping or want to book a dorm bed. Accommodation will be shared gender.

I will collect fees before the event or in cash at the event.

Mobile phone covered is limited at Arm River. The nearest spot for coverage is at the Mersey White water rafting parking zone.

Single Day Hiking FoM - Arm River Falls Friday 26 February 2027 45mins Easy 2km

Stretch your legs after your long drive to the Arm River Education Centre for the first Festival of Maccas event at this location.

Arm Falls, also known as Arm River Falls, is situated on Arm River, south of Lake Parangana, near Liena. From the Forest Education Centre, situated in the Arm River Forest Reserve, the tracks are clearly marked guiding you to the waterfall. Arm Falls is situated on Arm River Falls Circuit, with the loop walk providing a wonderful bush walk through lovely forest, with great photographic opportunities of creeks that eventually flow into Arm River.

Arm Falls is impressive, especially after consistent rainfall. On first impressions the height of Arm Falls is higher than photos suggest. The track takes you some 30 or 40 metres from the waterfall, with natural rock formations to view the waterfall comfortably.

Single Day Hiking FoM - Sunset at Devils Gullet Friday 26 February 2027 1 hour Easy 2km

Enjoy sunset at Devils Gullet as we start the Festival of Maccas in a new location.

A short alpine walk to a lookout platform that overhangs sheer cliffs and the Fisher River Valley.

From the lookout, on a clear day, visitors can view Tassie's highest mountain (Mt Ossa) on the western skyline, among many others.

The track has a hardened or compacted surface that may have a gentle hill section or sections, and occasional steps.

Single Day Hiking FoM - Western Bluff Saturday 27 February 2027 8 hours Hard 15km

Western Bluff has long been on my wishlist and can be viewed in all weather conditions out the kitchen window from Maccas Shed, Mole Creek!

While I have not yet walked this, I expect a long and difficult day so bring your patience and perserverance for this walk.

A lot of the elevation gain is done by driving, but it is rocky and uneven terrain on an unmarked trail.

For those who walk with me regularly you will know that I am not a peak bagger, so if the going gets too tough we will not push on to summit.

Category Image Long Table Dinner at Arm River Camp Saturday 27 February 2027 N/A N/A N/A

Long Table Dinner at Arm River Camp  

After a fun day of walking we would like to invite you to join us for a relaxed evening in the north-western wilderness around the table at Arm River Camp. 

Good company, a welcome drink and plenty of delicious food! 

Will kick things off with a welcome drink and nibbles, followed by the all-time favourite roast lamb. Finished off with a cosy apple crumble and cream. 

Come ready to settle in, enjoy a long evening of food, laughter and good conversation. 

Dress code: a little bit fancy ✨ 

To keep in theme of 35 years of the Pandani Bushwalking Club, the challenge for you is to wear something you had 35 years ago, i.e. bow tie, tie, bushwalking top, earrings, necklace, apparel etc. … 

Pair that with a frock, skirt, fancy shirt and trousers or whatever is casual and comfortable for you to enjoy the evening. 

We can’t wait to share the table with you. 

What to bring: dinner plate, desert bowl, cutlery, glass for drinks and mug. 

Extra beverages for the evening as desired, the long table includes the welcome drink. 

Cost and payment date: $25.00 

Please pay in full into this account dedicated to the long table to Jeanette Kelly BSB 037-001 Account 816633  by January 31, 2027. 

Contact me directly if you want to pay by an alternative method. 

Some extra things for the long table to be amazing: 

Some helpers will be greatly appreciated to help stir the gravy, carve and plate up so we can all eat a hot meal. 

If anyone has flowers in their garden, please contact me so we can arrange for you to bring these for the tables. 

Single Day Hiking FoM - Solitary Man's Hut Sunday 28 February 2027 6-7 hours Medium 15km

Solitary Man's Hut is well camouflaged in the bush near Tiger Lake.

This hut was built in 1983 by a person called “The Solitary Man” when he was aged 33. He then lived in it for about a year and a half from 1984 to July 1985.

Its A-frame construction is unusual for a mountain hut but its location is wonderful.

The walk is reasonably straightforward with a steep uphill section to Trappers Hut before we go off track towards the hut.
Be prepared to a wet and muddy day out, but into a less populated area of the Walls of Jerusalem National Park.

Single Day Hiking Lees Paddocks Sunday 28 February 2027 8 hours Medium 14.4kms

This is a fabulous walk close to the Arm River Education Camp in the Upper Mersey Valley. The trail is relatively flat, and we will walk through some lovely, varied terrain, including along the Mersey River.

We will depart from the Arm River Education Camp at 8.00am.

Travel to the trail head is approx. 36.5kms, estimated travel time 1 hour 25 minutes along winding gravel roads, potentially with pot holes and some sharp rocks. Higher clearance cars will be preferable for the trip, however if two wheel drives take it slow they should be ok. It will take about 3 hours to walk to the Lewis Lee Hut for the lunch. Time permitting we have a couple of options for add on's otherwise we will return to the car on the track we walked in on. Lewis and Oxley Falls are highlights of the track for this day. 

Back to camp to enjoy the evening .

Lee's Paddocks Track is on Private Property, we can walk in as a day walk without the owners permission. The owner has encouraged us to leave no trace, shut the gates, and please do not share photographs and information of the private property on social media platforms.

Single Day Hiking Lunch walk TBA Wednesday 03 March 2027 5+ including lunch Easy 5-7

Tba

Single Day Hiking Hazards Traverse overnight Saturday 06 March 2027 1.5 days Medium - Hard 12 km

Simon put this very fun walk on the program in 2025 and I enjoyed it so much I thought I should put it on again.

On the Saturday we will drive to Freycinet, complete a car shuffle and aim to begin the trip around 2pm with an afternoon walk up Mount Parsons. From there, we will continue to a large cave on the side of Mount Baudin where we will bivvy for the night. On Sunday, we will complete the traverse, visiting the summits of Mount Baudin, Mount Dove and Mount Amos. After descending the Mount Amos track, we will cool off with an afternoon swim and ice cream.

Expect lots of rock scrambling and fun route finding. While there are tracks up the peaks at each end, the traverse between is untracked. There are some spots that can feel fairly exposed while scrambling. Keeping packs light will help make the scrambling enjoyable.

This activity depends on fine weather as the granite is slick when wet. Also please note the ‘bring’ section for gear requirements. There are no reliable water sources on the traverse, so participants should start the walk with all the water they need for a 1.5 day walk in the heat. Poo tubes/pots are mandatory as the granite bedrock is always close to the surface and there is virtually nowhere to dig an adequate hole.

Preference will be given to club members who I or Simon have walked with previously.