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Tips For The First Time Camper
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All state and
territories in Australia have minimal impact guidelines that
relate to a variety of human activities from camping, 4WD, bush
walking, caving etc. Some guidelines may differ in their
wording, but all ask that you minimise your effect on our
environment. Tread lightly, take away all rubbish, and leave the
pristine environment as you found it. Oh, and if you do find
litter, take it away with you. Following are some of the main tips
when camping to minimise your impact on the
natural habitat in our national parks, reserves and wildlife. |
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Tips For The First Time Camper
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Minimal Impact Camping |
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Don't Over pack and Wear Clothes in Layers
If you layer your clothes, you will be prepared for hot and cold weather. Other
items to take include wet weather gear, sun protection and mosquito repellent.
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Inflatable Mattress
A good nights sleep makes for a better camping experience. Invest in an
inflatable mattress or a decent swag.
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Using Existing Campfires
Where possible, use existing fireplaces or campfire sites. Better still, use
your own gas/fuel cooker. Firewood may not be supplied, and many parks ban the
collection of firewood from the bush. Always obey any fire bans.
Ensure that all fires are completely extinguished before leaving an area or
going to bed. A small amount of glowing embers can start large bushfires.
Carelessness with fires can lead to severe fines. A total fire ban means just
that. In such circumstances, always ensure you pack food that does not need to
be cooked.
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Take Away Your Own Rubbish
Many serviced camp sites have rubbish bins, and often have recycling facilities.
If you are in a National Park, always take home everything you brought with you.
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Toilets
When there are no toilets, the custom is usually to find a secluded spot at
least 50 metres from the camp site and dig a small hole. Make sure you bury your
toilet waste 150 mm deep and at least 100 metres from any water source. Do not
bury your toilet paper, take it and any sanitary items with you for disposal.
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Camping Etiquette
Observe local camping etiquette. This includes pitching your tent a good
distance from your neighbours and observe any curfews. The commonsense rule is
to keep noise down late at night, this includes generators, televisions, radios,
childrens and pets.
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Dry Gear
If time permits, ensure all your gear is dry when you are ready to go. Wet
tents, sleeping bags etc are all prone to mildew. Otherwise, ensure that you
immediately dry all equipment and items when you get home, if you do not want to
ruin your equipment. |
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Other links
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Tread Lightly! Australia
PO Box 220, CROWS NEST QLD 4355
Ph:
07 4698 4963 / 1800 650 881 Fax: 07 4698 4968
Philosophy is to promote the concept of individuals, organisations
and corporations taking responsibility for their own actions and
demonstrating responsibility within whatever outdoor activity they
choose. Respect the Environment with your Recreation.Travel and recreate with minimum impact.
Respect the environment and rights of others.
Educate yourself, plan and prepare before you go.
Allow for the future use of the outdoors, leave it better
than you found it.
Discover the rewards of responsible recreation. Education is
the key to preserving the great outdoors.
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