Whether it be for a day walk or a multi-day pack carry, investing in the right outdoor gear is a must.

At the very least, it can make your walk a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

At best, it could save your life, especially in remote areas or when you encounter extreme conditions.

However, as any new or less experienced walker has probably discovered, outdoor stores offer a bewildering array of clothing, boots and equipment, all with a price tag attached.

Tonight, before you start navigating your way along the track, join us while two seasoned hikers and long-time YHA members, Bruce Meincke and Andrew Stevenson, help you navigate your way through the wondrous world of hiking gear.

Bruce first started bushwalking with the club in August 1964. He then went on to lead his first YHA pack carry in 1967 and his first YHA extended pack carry on the Tasmanian Overland Track in 1967.

The first YHA member to receive the Bushwalking and Mountaincraft Leadership Certificate, Bruce has gone on to specialise in leading Victorian high country winter walks, as well as snow walks in Tasmania, NSW and New Zealand.

Over the years he has given talks and presentations to YHA groups on many topics related to all aspects of bushwalking, including the best light weight equipment for bushwalking and camping, and how to prepare for extended pack carries.

Between them, Bruce and Andrew own and have used some of the best bushwalking equipment in the world, so are very well qualified to talk about all aspects of bushwalking equipment and bushwalking to walkers of all levels.

Indeed, Andrew has made a career out of this very topic, having worked in the outdoor/adventure retail sector for many years.

Tonight’s talk will centre around what bushwalkers need to look for when buying new equipment and clothing, and if time permits talk about how to pack for a bushwalk.

Andrew and Bruce will bring in some of the main bushwalking equipment (sleeping bags, packs, tents, sleeping mats and stoves, etc.) so people can actually look at, feel and try the equipment, and have an opportunity to ask questions and talk about bushwalking and bushwalking equipment.

So, please join us for a hands-on and instructive night that will help equip you for getting into bushwalking or to upgrade your current gear.

Booking