Julie and Gary
- Start date: 13 June 2022
- Age When Completed: 68 & 71
- Direction Walked: North to South
- Others in Group:
Julie Starkey
General Comments
I now understand why walkers get to the end and turn around and start walking back, and why walkers keep on returning time and time again. I had to experience the 9 weeks to understand this.
Food/Supplies Comments
A big thank you to all the visitors’ centres where our food packages were kept safely and for the kindness and generous support shown to us by the staff
Favourite Section
As I walked my love for the sections grew in intensity. This I think was more about the connection that was developing between the Track and me, rather than a section comparison.
Highlights
Meeting and connecting with other walkers. Fantastic infrastructure. A lifestyle that was both simple and incredibly rich.
Personal Reactions
It is hard to believe how much I grew to love the Track and our life on it. It was only days after we returned home that I was yearning for the adventure, peace and simplicity of the lifestyle the Track offered us.
Wildlife
We were deeply saddened by the destruction of the habitat and hence absence of wildlife in the frequently burnt forests. The wildlife did increase the further south we went and it was great to have the company of planigales and quendas at the shelters.
Your Best Equipment
Umbrella for the forest sections. Thermarest z seat. Comfy dry footwear to change into on arrival at the shelters.
Your Worst Equipment
Old fashioned heavy equipment. It has to go.
Advice for Others
Walking the Track in winter definitely has benefits.