By HOLLIE HARRIS
AMONG the horse-riders, bird-watchers, picnickers, runners and hikers on the Great Noosa Trail this weekend was a party of seven trail guides, preparing to lead October’s Great Noosa Trail Walk – a three-day hike across 50km of Noosa’s most beautiful countryside.
Leading the group was organiser Shaun Walsh who replicated the 22km Day Two trek from Kin Kin to Cooran via the rainforest plateau of the Woondum National Park and the spectacular James McKane lookout.
Founder of the annual event in 2013, Shaun’s aim was to familiarise guides with the track, the history and biodiversity of the area, and to identify any maintenance or safety issues which may need attention prior to the walk.
He wanted to inspire the volunteer guides with “the philosophy” of the walk.
“It’s not a route march. The walk should be experienced, not just as a physical challenge, but as something of a countryside pilgrimage walk.
“It’s about immersing yourself in the local environment, meeting locals, making new friends, pushing your own physical and psychological limits, and learning new things – not just about the landscape and the history of the area, but also, about yourself,” Shaun said.
Although the walk can be physically challenging, particularly the long and rewarding uphill climb to the James McKane lookout, Shaun said: “It’s not beyond the abilities of anyone with a reasonable level of fitness, and there’s absolutely no shame in taking advantage of the bail out points which provide shuttle-bus transport back to the campsites at various points along the route.
“Our guides are there to provide support and encouragement for participants to experience the Great Noosa Trail in a way that best suits their personal interests and physical abilities.
“We want people to challenge themselves and we want to support them in that. But, ultimately, we just want everyone to have a great time.”
To maximise safety and encourage a friendly, community atmosphere, numbers are limited to 150 walkers.
This year’s walk is already oversubscribed but will be held at the same time next year.
Walkers and horse-riders are also free to use the network independently at any time by accessing the Noosa Trail Network map at tourist information centres or online at www.noosa.qld.gov.au.
Walks along the well-marked network of tracks range from 1-17km.
For those keen to join Shaun Walsh and his trail guides in 2017, more information about the Great Noosa Trail Walk is available at www.greatnoosatrailwalk.com.au.
