James Menzies (Mad Gecko)

Completed: 5 November 2012

Photo of James Menzies (Mad Gecko)
James Menzies
Mad Gecko
  • Start date: 6 September 2012
  • Age When Completed: 63
  • Direction Walked: North to South
  • Others in Group:

    Ian Menzies

General Comments

I read an article in the local paper last year (2011) featuring the Bibbulmun Track and a book called Snapshots of the Journey by David Woodworth. After reading the book I decided if he can do it so can I. My son, Ian, decided to join me and after lots of research and planning we set off. It was a fantastic and unforgettable journey. The shelters are very well maintained, thanks to the volunteers and DEC.

Food/Supplies Comments

Breakfast – porridge, Lunch – Protein Bars and Cereal bars, Dinner – dehydrated home cooked meals. Snacks – muesli bars, dried fruits, nuts, fruit bars, cheese and crackers. Drinks – soup, Ovaltine and energy drinks. Food parcels were delivered to me each weekend by my fantastic family.

Favourite Section

From the hills, to the trees and the sandy sea, I enjoyed every section.

Highlights

Walking end to end with my son, catching up with my family on rest days and meeting Janet and Richard from Victoria. Finding a cold Guinness in my food parcel at White Horse Hills camp.  The variety of environments of the track and seeing my family’s excitement as I crossed the finish line in Albany.

Personal Reactions

Walking with my son (End to End), my daughter (Sectional) and my ten year old Grandson (Sectional)

Wildlife

It was great to see our wildlife up close and personal in their environment. I saw Quenda, Kangaroos, cockatoos, snakes, dolphins, whales just to name a few.

Your Best Equipment

Osprey pack, Hi-tech boots, Poncho and Spot GPS Tracker.

Your Worst Equipment

The fishing line that never caught a fish. Not having a mosquito net and gators.

Advice for Others

Be prepared and don’t be in a rush to reach your destination. Enjoy every step and every minute of each day.