Steve Willems
- Start date: 16 September 2013
- Age When Completed: 35
- Direction Walked: North to South
General Comments
I’m from Sydney and came across to complete the track in 2009. Due to poor preparation and an early injury, I only completed two sections: from Kalamunda to Collie and then Walpole to Albany, and ever since planned to come back and complete an end to end properly. Hence excellent preparation this time.
Food/Supplies Comments
I mainly stocked up in the major towns, and started sending packages ahead via Express post from larger towns to smaller ones, just in case. Donnelly River Village, Balingup and Northcliffe are light on supplies and very expensive. I never ran short on gas but cooked often on the campfires, which luckily were always shared with other campers.
Favourite Section
Pemberton to Walpole. It was fun wading through the plains. Despite being knee deep, I kept my boots dry until the very last wading section before Woolbales.
Highlights
Contrary to all other through hikers I’ve spoken to, I never spent a single night in a shelter by myself. I enjoyed the social side in camp just as much as the alone time on the track. The highlight was playing games well into the night with three other through-hikers and a large family out for the weekend at Possum Springs.
Personal Reactions
I’m coming back. Planning a double end to end.
Wildlife
Lots of joeys in spring. Wild emus, kangaroos, wallabies, lizards, and flies. A LOT of flies along the coast.
Your Best Equipment
My super light, super warm sleeping bag which kept me warm and cozy without much weight. My toe socks and boots that kept me blister free. And my gaiters, which were universally useful, even as a mat to sit on.
Your Worst Equipment
Leaking waterproof pants. I discovered during the downpour on my first day that it was too old and no longer waterproof.
Advice for Others
Take your time and enjoy the towns along the way. Stay for a few nights, rest, and don’t rush through. Prepare well beforehand. Make sure you’re not carrying too much, have the right pack, and most importantly, look after your feet! I gave them careful attention and they didn’t let me down.