Our bush and forests are special paces that we need to look after, so they will be here forever. Then many more generations can visit and treasure them.
To protect these areas we need to ‘Step Lightly’ in the bush to minimise our impact on the natural environment.
Here is a few suggestions, most of these things we already do. So if we all do as many of these things as we can we will make a difference.
Camp in an existing campsite rather than create a new one and camp at least 20 metres from water source
Don’t camp under trees especially gun trees. Look up when setting up your camp, trees can drop their branches at any time, especially during high winds.
Choose a well drained or raised site. Do not camp in a dry creek bed or low area, if it rains the creek bed can quickly flood.
Use toilets and showers where they are provided. In areas without toilets and showers, bury toilet waste in a 15 cm deep hole and setup your camp shower at least 100 metres away from all campsites and watercourses.
All native plants and animals are protected. Do not cut down or damage standing trees or vegetation.
Take your rubbish home. Don’t burn or bury rubbish. If you have the misfortune to come across other people’s rubbish, do the bush a favour and take it out with you too.
Use only fallen branches or sticks. Standing trees, even dead ones are a home for wildlife and a part of the scenery.
Firewood is in short supply in many areas. Gather firewood well away from your camp and use it sparingly. Keep your campfire small and be conservative in your use of fuel or better still, bring your own. Also use a camp stove for cooking if you can.
My family have been camping in the bush for many years and look forward to it every time. It is a special time for everyone. We have the usual fishing competition of who can catch the most or the biggest fish (just about every fish goes back in for another day) and I try to cooking something delicious in the campoven and the campfire is the entertainment at night.
Thank you for ‘Stepping Lightly’ and looking after our enviroment with minimal impact will make a difference. All our kids will be able to enjoy the bush for many years to come.
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