A social and happy group of members have completed the first 6 days southbound on the Heysen Trail. Starting at Parachilna Gorge, and a 31km final day rocky walk to Mt Little camp near Mayo Gorge. A week of wonderful walking through the Flinders Ranges, enhanced by the diligent planning, organisational and leadership skills of our leader, Dean Mortimer. Thanks to Dean, who dressed in “reverse” to lead us, for such a successful and highly enjoyable week.

Meanwhile, also up north – Sandy Wood completed her End to End 3 walk at the Parachilna Trailhead yesterday. Delayed from last August due to a non walking injury along the trail, 3 days from finishing with her group, it was pleasing to see her wide smile beaming ever wider as she approached the final stile. Well done Sandy.

Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook

Missing out on the adventure of the 19 Friends of the Heysen Trail members on the Larapinta Trail?

Follow the action at http://larapintawithfoht.blogspot.com.au

We’re looking out for the daily Spinifex Award winner – day 1 on the trail, Russell O’Brien won for his hand knitted beanie, courtesy of YouTube. And here we were thinking YouTube was all about cats.

Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook

The Friends End to End 4 group of 55 walkers, spent two tough days walking the bald and stony hills of Burra, and east into the mallee country. The Xmas in July dinner Saturday night was a blast. Glorious sunshine on Saturday after a very frosty morning. Sunday was overcast, a good dry walking day. On Monday Mt Bryan East received 23mm of rain. Dust Hole Creek Road would not have been accessible by the cars. Our timing was perfect.

Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook

The annual Walk Leaders Training Day was held at the Woodville Lawn Bowling Club today, with about thirty leaders and prospective leaders attending.

They were entertained with presentations by Arrienne Wynen (Walk Committee Chair) Jerry Foster, Simon Cameron and Julian Monfries.

It was a time for current leaders to refresh and for potential leaders to learn the Friends requirements of walk leaders and to perhaps, entice them into leading some walks.

It was also a chance for leaders to get together and exchange information and experiences.

Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook

The first Trailwalker for 2012 set a tough standard. Steve Clift lead (mostly from mid-pack) his group up and down the tough hills and valleys of Cuddle Creek to Sixth Creek, via Mt Misery, and return. 23km of tough terrain, spiced with views and animal sightings. A long day with one retirement. A few tired legs (& bodies) arrived back to the cars some time after the E2E5 group, still looking fit after their slight detour, had passed by on their first walk of 2012. Well done walkers – just hope you all recover to walk again next week! Some pics at

http://picasaweb.google.com/ralcock1

Join the conversation on Twitter and Facebook

Don’t forget, tomorrow (Thu 26th) we have our Australia Day BBQ and walk at Kingston Park, under the trees.

Coastal walk at 3pm with Gavin, length depending on sea breeze. Return by 5pm for a swim and the BBQ.

BBQ at 5pm. BBQ plate and table provided. BYO meat, salads, drinks and chairs.

No cost to attend. No booking required for the walk or BBQ, just turn up to enjoy.

View the location map.