John O’Rourke (Jumping Jack on the Track)

Completed: 11 November, 2023

John O’Rourke thumbnail — **John O’Rourke**
Jumping Jack on the Track

Start date: 29 September, 2023
Age When Completed: 60
Direction Walked: Southbound

Track Towns and Supplies

Did you have any issues finding food/supplies? Yes
Don't skimp on treats - at the end of a tough day of hiking you won't regret it! More generally, I dehydrated lots of meals with varying success, but my ratatouille was good value and my track favourite.

Your Story or Advice for Others

General Comments
Epic adventure!

Your Best Equipment
As I am directionally challenged the FarOut app got me out of a few pickles - but in terms of equipment my track shoes, dirty girl gaiters and socks - got the job done! I'd wack them on in the morning and I'd be off - repeated 44 days in a row :)

Your Worst Equipment
My backpack was fit for purpose - but was a constant combatant for me until Pemberton where I watched a few videos on better packing. Perhaps it was just me getting used to the experience - but by the second half of the BT - I was one with my pack.

Advice for Others
Get as fit as you can before setting out - so you are confident that you can do the 1000kms. But importantly, listen, observe, learn and be prepared to be flexible on the track.

Trip Details

How you completed the Bibbulmun Track:

All at once

Who did you complete the Track with? Solo (primarily)
Was undertaking your hike the PRIMARY/MAIN purpose of your TRAVEL from where you currently live? No

Your Experience

Favourite Section
Because I love the coast, the section from Walpole through to Albany was probably my favourite. All sections had plenty to offer; I rated the huts as I went, and the highest scores were for Grimwade and Tom Road.

Highlight of your trip
There were many highlights - but being an ocean person, arriving at Mandalay Beach and going for a swim after hiking 750kms was special!