This term refers to the way many bushwalkers now behave once out in the bush. It doesn't limit or stand in the way of walkers but simply means if all walkers take up this then the bush and all its wonders will remain as they are today. There are some simple steps that walker can take to protect the bush and they don't cost anything!
 

• By staying on tracks and not cutting corners on zigzag tracks.
• By spreading out in open country as to minimize the damage to plants and grasses.
• By avoiding sensitive vegetation such as Sphagnum bogs, cushion plants and other vegetation which is highly sensitive to damage. Some plants can die after just one person steps on them.
• Don't cut new tracks as this is not only detrimental to the bush but is also illegal

 These are only some of the steps walkers can take to help the bush. There also things that walkers can do once they have set up camp which can help.
 

• Use a fuel stove instead of a open fire, this is not only less damaging but there are vast areas of walking tracks which are designated as fuel stove only areas". If you have to light a open fire try to light one in an existing fireplace instead of starting a new one. Once you have finished with your open fire "Put it out!" and never leave a fire burning without someone watching it.

• Never light a open fire or use a fuel stove outside on a day of TOTAL FIRE BAN there are severe penalties for doing this. It is legal to use a fuel stove inside a hut on a Total Fire Ban day but be careful! You can obtain information regarding Total Fire Ban days from radio broadcasts or via a mobile phone by calling 
 
• Always carry a good quality tent which has a floor and waterproof fly. Don't rely on the huts as these may already be full and if you use a hut be prepared to allow walkers who are in trouble to come in. Remember the primary use of the huts is for emergency or refuse use. Don't leave food scraps or store food in the huts as this encourages rats and other animals. Clean the hut up and replace any firewood that you use, when you leave close the door.
 
• Once you have your camp set up remember to wash 50m away from streams and rivers. If there is no toilet dig a hole 15cm deep and at least 100m away from any streams or rivers as well as camping areas.


 Carrying out these simple measures can make a big difference and mean that next time you visit will be just as wonderful as the first. In Victoria -Australia pamphlets on Minimal Impact Bushwalking are available from The Conservation and Natural Resources which have offices all over the state.

 Some basic rules for walking can also make a difference not just for the bush but for you as well. Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return, Not following this simple procedure has lead to some lengthy and costly searches being carried out. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them and a note for International visitors, if you have compass from the northern hemisphere it will not be accurate in the southern hemisphere and vice versa. Remember just being 5 degrees out could cost you your life in bad weather. You can purchase good quality compasses for as little as $40 (Australian) and this could make the difference between getting home or being stuck out on the bush. See essentials for walkers for more information.

 Return to Bushwalking Page