The GoaT
- Start date: 27 June 2016
- Age When Completed: 23
- Direction Walked: South to North
- Others in Group:
Mitch “Redbeard” Hulbert
General Comments
The walk is utterly unique. It’s isolation combined with the landscapes provide an experience uniquely Western Australian ... The walk never became easy, there were always different challenges with each section, that were perfectly balanced so they were achievable but rewarding.
Food/Supplies Comments
Self- dehydrated food was a true winner. We were very happy with our dinners and loved sharing tips with other hikers- I’m looking forward to experimenting further with the technique, such as dehydrating tinned tuna and salmon (so much weight reduction!) and even dehydrating eggs!
Favourite Section
Peaceful Bay through to Walpole. The definitive transitions from beach to ridge walking and into the massive karri forest was sensational.
Highlights
My spirit animal resides in Lake Maringup shelter! It combined the natural beauty and isolation that I walked the Bibb for in a way that will stick in my memory!
Personal Reactions
I loved how it went through towns I’d never considered visiting, which were still small and quiet and yet so hiker orientated e.g. Mumballup. The terrain varied nicely, including most major land-forms and experiences this part of the world offers e.g. summits, lowland plains, wading, dune walking, beach walking, granite scrambling…
Wildlife
Saw lots of emus, wallabies, kangaroos, and so many birds!!! Donnelly River Village was a good way to get the most out of it!
Your Best Equipment
Walking poles - for diversion of energy from tired legs to otherwise resting arms; for balance during wading and rocky sections; for pacing; and to drag oneself uphill.
Your Worst Equipment
My Scarpa boots were wonderful in the variable undulating terrain of Nepal. In Australia I found them quite stiff soled and really needed my flexible hut shoes to avoid stiff foot joints and painful walking.
Advice for Others
Philosophically? Live for the day- focus on the process and not the task!
Practically? Add Deb to meals for extra oomph! And bring fishing line to hang packs up in the shelters to avoid hungry marsupials getting too cheeky.