The Great South West Walk has become a cherished natural retreat in Victoria, Australia, where sea salt tang lingers in the air and the sounds of wildlife create a serene atmosphere. Spanning 262 kilometers, this remarkable trail weaves through stunning coastlines, rugged bushland, and tranquil river systems, largely due to the enduring efforts of the Friends of the Great South West Walk, a dedicated group of volunteers.
"I’m amazed by the number of volunteers and the extent of volunteering that has built the walk from when it started in the early ‘80s, over 40 years ago, to today," said Jen Johns, President of the Friends of the Great South West Walk. The organization has worked closely with local Parks Victoria rangers to maintain and preserve this pathway since its inception.
The journey to creating this trail began in the early 1980s, thanks to the vision of the late Alan (Sam) Burton, then Chief District Ranger, and Bill Golding, a former principal at Portland High School. "They dreamed of a looped long-distance walk through the southwest, and in 1981, finally received the green light to go ahead," according to the group's historical records, which capture the spirit of collaboration.
During the initial phases, community members, including teachers and students from Portland High, joined efforts to carve out the first 200 kilometers of the trail by hand. "Every year, we log more than 7,000 hours of work for the trail," Jen noted, highlighting the extensive hours put in by the volunteers to keep the pathway safe and welcoming for hikers. The completion of the remaining tracks was a joint effort involving the Friends group, Parks Victoria, Traditional Owners, and various community organizations.
Today, their active team of around 50 volunteers continues to thrive, engaging in numerous activities that emphasize community involvement and preservation. "Promoting the walk and engaging the community through education programs, landcare projects, and walker liaisons for those that might need additional support," is just a glimpse of what they offer, Jen explained.
Monthly group walks and guided camping treks attract both locals and visitors, creating opportunities to experience the beauty of the walk firsthand. Meanwhile, the weekly maintenance tasks include clearing fallen trees, repairing worn signposts, and tackling invasive species that threaten the local ecosystem.
"Some of our volunteers have been with us from the very beginning, while others have joined along the way. Among them is a growing group of volunteer walkers, now in their early retirement, who are helping ensure our efforts continue well into the future," Jen added, reflecting the diversity in age and experience among the team.
Cooperation is key when facing challenging or remote sections of the trail. Volunteers often combine their efforts over consecutive days, often equipped with tools funded through various grants, sponsorships, and donations. "When you factor in the time spent planning activities and running committees, the real figure could be twice that amount. It’s really an incredible contribution," Jen remarked, underscoring the generosity of spirit that defines their work.
Peter Hill, a Ranger Team Leader at Parks Victoria, expressed gratitude for the unwavering dedication shown by the volunteers. "The Friends of the Great South West Walk have collectively given thousands of hours over almost five decades — building infrastructure, clearing trails, battling weeds and helping ensure this walk remains accessible for all," he stated.
Hill reiterated the importance of community involvement: "This walk is not just about the scenery; it’s about the people who make it what it is, and what a great bunch they are. Without the Friends group, the Great South West Walk wouldn’t exist in the way we know it today."
To recognize the contributions of its dedicated members, the Friends group has initiated an awards program that honors those who have served long-term, celebrating individual milestones every year. Those who truly excel, such as veteran Frank Coulson, may attain a prestigious life membership, a testament to their decades of service.
As these volunteers continue their work, they create not just a well-maintained trail, but also foster a sense of camaraderie and community that enriches the experience for everyone involved. As they pause to share a cuppa after a day of labor, it is clear that their efforts extend beyond mere trail maintenance; they build friendships, celebrate nature, and develop a legacy that will inspire generations to come.