On the Track

Malcolm's youthful pastime of long-distance cycling in the leafy lanes of East Anglia in England was probably a good preparation for exploration further afield.

After settling with Maureen in Australia in the late 1960s, he adapted quickly to the environment, enjoying the rugged bushland, observing and learning about the flora and fauna. It was in 1990 that Malcolm realised it was time for him to change his lifestyle. He had long been a member of NPA, but now became an active one and bushwalking became part of his life.

The question is often asked of Malcolm as to how he came to be a walks leader. In 1992 the NPA program included walks where volunteer leaders were needed. After two attempts to join walks which were cancelled through lack of a leader, Malcolm volunteered. As a result, Malcolm led his first walk in January 1993 and has been leading walks on a regular basis ever since.

Malcolm with possum
at Barrington Tops
Photo: Verne Caradus

As a walks leader Malcolm is calm and considerate, always ready to pause to look at flowers and frequently to provide their botanical name. Small flowers, lichens, mosses and rock crystals are often examined under a magnifying glass.

Walking pace and routes are not too arduous, however, sometimes there is the challenge of an alternative, more rugged route to add spice to the day.

When it comes to animals and birds Malcolm has a great love for the Australian fauna. His keen sight and hearing often discover animals the rest of us did not notice. Often he can be heard mimicking the call of a bird and after its response will continue the repertoire for as long as the bird is willing. A helping hand was extended to a baby ringtail possum found in the middle of the day on a firetrail. In order that it might survive, the possum was carried for some distance and is now in the hands of qualified carers so that it can eventually be returned to its environment.

A Sunday is Malcolm's day for relaxation, and irrespective of the weather (he claims it never rains on his walks!), he will be found somewhere on a track.

When not leading NPA walks he will be out with a group of friends, often in search of new and interesting walks to share with NPA members.

Whenever possible a stop for a :mugaccino" on the return trip home tops off the day.