Orienteers get back in the bush

BENDIGO Orienteers are gearing up for the start of a new season navigating the region’s bushland, with two come and try days scheduled this month for newcomers to have a go.

The international sport sees participants power through unfamiliar terrain with speed, accuracy and old school tools.

“Orienteering takes you to places where most people don’t go to. You’re right deep in the forest, you’re not always on track,” group committee member Julie Flynn said.

“Very often its new terrain, so you haven’t been there before, and you haven’t seen the map before.

“If you’re competitive, you’re usually running cross country so you’re jumping, ducking under things, weaving, trying not to fall over, going up and down hills and through water courses. It can be quite demanding.

“Sometimes we get lost and we have to work out where we are but with a map and a compass you can do that.”

For Ms Flynn, the physically demanding challenge orienteering presents is its biggest drawcard but getting off the beaten track is equally enjoyable.

“I love getting out in the bush, I love feeling like I’m alone in the forest sometimes,” she said.

“You don’t have to run or be competitive against other people, you can be competitive against yourself.

“You can just do it to enjoy being out in the forest, the challenge of working out where you are and how to get from A to B.”

Two come and try days with easy and moderate courses will be held on 19 and 26 March in Kangaroo Flat and Maiden Gully, respectively.

For more information, search Bendigo Orienteers on Facebook.