- Start date: 10 August 2005
- Age When Completed: 35
- Direction Walked: North to South
General Comments
This is the second time I have hiked the Bibb Track. It might seem crazy to do it twice especially if you live in England. After my happy experience the first time, it gave me the strength to hike the Appalachian Trail in 2004.
Food/Supplies Comments
I have what I call “The System” which means I buy the same things every time in the supermarket and avoid having to think!
Favourite Section
The mixed Red Tingle and Karri forest around Frankland Shelter for natural beauty and diversity.
Highlights
I also liked the wilder stretches in the north: the Monadnocks region is favourite. Also the green and rolling interlude near Balingup. The dawning of the Southern Ocean at Mandalay beach was probably the single most exciting moment.
Personal Reactions
I met a lot more people on this hike so it didn’t feel as much of a wilderness experience.
Wildlife
Lots of roos, wallabies and emus. Only 1 quenda and a mardo (I think). I always enjoy spotting snakes and this time they suddenly became very thick on the ground as soon as I hit the coastal section. As usual, all the parrots were one of the best things about being in Australia.
Your Best Equipment
Home made meths stove (tuna can and tea light holder), walking poles, warm down bag.
Your Worst Equipment
Only having the rain fly of my tent as a shelter which meant I did not camp between campsites as much as I’d have liked on account of the unpredictable weather for much of my walk.
Advice for Others
Go light! Only take 2 sets of clothes, the ones you hike in.