Launceston Walking Club is a sports club located in Launceston, Tasmania. The club primarily focuses on bushwalking activities, but also offers cycling and kayaking trips throughout the region. With 2–3 trips scheduled for most weekends, year round, as well as mid-week day and evening trips closer to Launceston, the club provides opportunities for members of all ages and levels of experience to enjoy the great outdoors.
The main objectives of the Launceston Walking Club are to encourage and promote bushwalking and other outdoor activities, support the conservation of scenic areas, flora, and fauna, and foster social activity among club members. By organising regular trips and maintaining walking tracks, the club aims to provide a platform for outdoor enthusiasts to explore Tasmania's natural beauty.
Club meetings take place on the third Wednesday of each month at Room 16/17, Newstead College in Newstead, Launceston. These meetings serve as a platform to keep members updated on club activities, view photos from recent trips, and engage in socialising and networking with other members. Meetings often feature presentations or activities such as guest speakers, gear demonstrations, and photo competitions.
Prospective members are required to complete three trips with the club as a Prospective Member before applying for membership. Suitable trips for prospective members include easy to moderate day walks or cycling trips. It is recommended for prospective members to attend a Wednesday night meeting before their first trip to receive trip suggestions, meet coordinators, and receive equipment advice. If unable to attend a meeting, prospective members can contact the club via the website's contact form.
The club organises two or more trips on most weekends throughout the year, as well as mid-week day or evening trips. Details of each trip, such as dates, difficulty level, and meeting location, are available in the Members' and Prospective Members' areas of the club's website and the club newsletter, Perambulator. The club provides transportation for most trips using their own bus, while others involve car-pooling arrangements managed by the trip coordinator. Walking trips range from easy day walks to overnight and multi-day hikes.
Cycling trips include beginner to advanced mountain bike trips, as well as road rides of varying length and difficulty. Kayak trips range from easy flatwater excursions to ocean and multi-day trips.
To participate in club trips, members, and prospective members need to register through the club's website or contact the trip coordinator at least 48 hours before the trip departs. Registration typically opens one month before the departure date. All trips depart from Newstead College, unless otherwise specified in the trip preview.
For those interested in joining the Launceston Walking Club and exploring Tasmania's scenic wonders through bushwalking, cycling, or kayaking, the club offers a welcoming and inclusive community with a diverse range of trips suited to different skill levels and interests. Join the club and embark on exciting outdoor adventures while fostering a love for nature and meeting like-minded individuals.