Down South
Things to Do
If you thought it was a long way to Tipperary, try walking from Perth’s Kalamunda Hills to Albany. This epic southwest bushwalk is not for the fainthearted, but experienced hikers will love it. Try tackling one section: you can walk the track for a few hours, a few days, or a few weeks, with most walkers averaging 15-20kms per day. The path passes through many towns, although you can walk for more than 160km without encountering any civilisation. Follow the yellow, triangular Waugal signs - showing a local Aboriginal mythological rainbow snake - regularly placed on trees and posts; the head of the Waugal points in the direction of travel.
The best time to walk the track is the mild late-autumn (June) and spring/early-summer (Sept-Nov) is the best time for wildflowers. Heat and lack of water can make summer hiking dangerous. The track passes through an array of landscapes, mostly jarrah or karri forest, and along the way are many three-sided shelters with fresh water for campers. The Bibbulmun takes its name from a distinct southwestern Aboriginal language group who travelled long distances for tribal meetings. See www.bibbulmuntrack.org.au or call (08) 9481 0551.
The Munda Biddi Trail (which means path through the forest in the Nyoongar Aboriginal language) is a new world-class, nature-based, off-road cycling experience.
Starting in Mundaring the trail meanders through scenic river valleys and the magnificent eucalypt forests of the State’s South West. It utilises a network of bush tracks, firebreaks and disused railway formations and is suitable for cyclists of all ages and experience levels. Situated a comfortable day’s ride apart are purpose-built Munda Biddi campsites with roomy Camp Huts and tent sites.
Stage 1 of the trail, from Mundaring to Collie (332km) is currently open, with the first half of stage 2, Collie to Nannup, due to be opened to the public soon. See www.mundabiddi.org.au
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