Do you really go bush?

I’ve been giving a bit of thought to how we relate to the bush. Particularly the reliance on gadgets, and where we travel.

These things are wonderful (provided you know how they operate), but it also seems to me they come at a cost. More and more I’m coming across folks with no bush skills what so ever.

The inevitable result appears to be reluctance to turn the car into the bush and travel across country. Personally I think this is a shame when there is so much opportunity out there.

It’s been almost three years now since we did a significant cross country trip in Western Australia but it was achieve without gadgets (apart from two 15 YOL GPS units which were totally useless with 50 YOL maps.

If you can image three old farts constantly arguing about where the sun is going to set, why isn’t the bloody tank where it should be, your compass is full of bleep , we should be over there and not here and, you old prick, you told me you knew this country from your droving days! LOL

One of the strange things about the bush, is you get up at 5am brew the coffee, cook the bacon and eggs, watch the sun rise then plan the day ahead.

Now it could be another day going around in circles and tempers flare, but if you’re got mates who understand the bush there’s not too much to worry about.

I’ve come across roo shooters in the bush 250klms from the nearest town with no gadgets. The distinction between what they carry, compared to 4wd tourist is remarkable.

So I guess what I’m trying to say, is get a good map, compass and don’t be afraid to do it. It won't be an adventure unless some risk is taken.

Regards

Kim