Saltbush Orienteers is a sports club based in the city of Whyalla, located on the eastern side of the Eyre Peninsula in South Australia. The club was first established in 1974 and has since been dedicated to the sport of orienteering. Most of their events take place in the nearby Middleback Ranges, which are within a 30–60 minutes driving time from the city.
For those who are new to orienteering, Saltbush Orienteers provides detailed information on their website and social media pages. They offer coaching sessions and training opportunities to help beginners navigate their way through the sport. The club encourages people of all ages and skill levels to participate and enjoy the challenges that orienteering has to offer.
Saltbush Orienteers has a strong online presence, including their official Facebook page, where they regularly update their followers on upcoming events, training sessions, and important announcements. They also share relevant information about the sport of orienteering and provide tips to improve skills.
The club hosts various orienteering events throughout the year, and their website provides detailed information on the schedule and locations. They collaborate with the Lincoln Orienteers, and their combined programme is available for interested participants to plan their attendance.
One of the upcoming events is the local street-park orienteering event, scheduled for March 2024 (date to be advised). Participants can start anytime between 10 am and 1 pm, but they must return to the orienteering van by 3 pm. It is essential to come prepared with comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and water to ensure a comfortable experience.
For non-member participants, there is a fee to join the events. Individual participants are required to pay $5, while groups can join for $10. Coaching sessions are also available, and interested individuals can inquire about coaching opportunities at the orienteering van.
Saltbush Orienteers take pride in their members' achievements and regularly share results on their platforms. They conduct an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Awards Evening to recognise outstanding performances within the club. The 2023 committee members were elected unopposed, with Greg Hancock continuing as President. Awards were presented in various categories, including Female/Male Golden Flash, Female/Male Orienteer of the Year, Most Improved, and Club Person.
Saltbush Orienteers have a rich history in the sport, and their dedication to orienteering is evident through their members' contributions. The club recently awarded Alan Holland with the John Hall Memorial Service Award for his valuable contributions since 1985. His mapping expertise, involvement in the administration of the club, and participation in events were recognised and appreciated by the entire club.
Overall, Saltbush Orienteers is a thriving sports club in Whyalla, offering opportunities for people to engage in orienteering and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Middleback Ranges. Their commitment to the sport, coaching initiatives, and recognition of member achievements make them a vibrant and supportive community for orienteering enthusiasts in the region.