What sort of club is it?

Yarrawood is a Sydney bushwalking club of about 100 members. Our members come from all over the metropolitan area. Each year, the club puts on a program of about 40 walks, ranging from very easy day walks to multi-day treks. Most trips attract around 6 to 12 walkers, with an equal male/female ratio.

Throughout the walking season other activities such as canoe trips, bike rides and cross-country skiing weekends are offered.

The club has a very strong commitment to safety and friendliness in walking. Walk leaders are appointed from the more experienced membership and, for safety reasons, have control over the size of a walking party and who is included in it. But leaders are not dictators --- all our leaders will take trouble to ensure that new members and guests feel part of the group, are coping and comfortable, and are enjoying the walk. Our philosophy is one of enjoyable and exhilarating walking in reasonable comfort and with good companionship.

How can I take part ?

The club welcomes guests on walks of all levels, always subject to the agreement of the leader. Guests will be as welcome as members on all suitable walks, and will also be covered by the club's third-party and limited personal accident insurance.If you'd like to go on a club walk, check out the program (see INFO on the Home Page)  or the newsletter (see NEWS on the Home Page) then contact the leader and discuss the walk. The leader will quiz you a little about your previous walking experience and level of fitness. This is not being elitist --- it's necessary to ensure the success and safety of the walk.

How can I become a member?

Fill out a Membership Application (click on CONTACTS). The cost is $40 for a full year plus a $5 joining fee. You will then receive:

• A copy of the annual program A walk summary and weekend planner "fridge sticker"
• A copy of the newsletter (generally 4 issues per year)

Is there a program for inexperienced walkers ?

The club offers a unique Camping Course especially designed for those new to the world of bushwalking. This is the way in which most new members are introduced to the club.

Am I fit enough?

Because bushwalks range from very easy to pretty hard, it's difficult to generalise about fitness levels. However, it's fair to say that the fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy walking. On the other hand, you don't need to be super fit to go bushwalking --- for medium level walks, moderate fitness is adequate.

Note that weekend bushwalking in itself isn't enough to maintain a reasonable level of fitness. To keep in trim, you should develop the habit of at least 30 minutes of fairly vigorous exercise --- preferably a brisk walk --- at least 3 times a week. If you do this and have some experience of walking with a pack, you should be able to cope with most club medium overnight walks and nearly all day walks. If you're not up to this fitness level, stick to easy walks for starters.

Further information

Click CONTACTS at top of page for Yarrawood joining application and contact details We hope you'll join in some walks with Yarrawood, and we look forward to seeing you on the track