Long time bushwalkers Chris Burt and Robyn Campbell describe how one simple question changed their lives.
Chris (67): "I was always on the lookout for a walking buddy and someone who was willing to carry a pack and escape to remote areas. Very few would put their hands up, so I was walking with groups of male friends. It wasn’t until 2015 when Robyn and I met each other through their work and prompting by a fellow colleague. There began a walking buddy friendship that’s expanded.
I was planning on doing some walking in South Australia, after that Tassie and the challenging Kakadu escarpment. I suggested it to Robyn to give it a go. Rob jumped at the chance and took on the same passion of walking and escaping, so a lot of pre-walk training was started to fully enjoy the beauty of our own backyard.
Even though we walk at different paces, particularly on the hills, there’s always a fantastic view or quiet time to sit and relax for the other to catch up if needed. We laugh at ourselves when we stuff up or hit the dirt in a very undignified way, laughing at each other when it’s a combined stuff up. I feel this helps to reinforce and enjoy our common bond. Sometimes it even means offering to hold her hand when the night toilet calls with dingos howling in the distance.
We’ve both had our trials in life which has given us the determination to be stronger and never give up and to enjoy these times of reflection together, not to mention some really incredible Australian scenes. We’re always encouraging and helping other empty nest women to give it a try and understand why we do it. One very dear friend of ours said one day, ‘I get it now, I know why you do it’, thanks Coral. We’re always on the lookout for the next adventure to tackle together, independently or with some of the amazing hiking groups we’ve walked with.”
Robyn (64): "I remember the day Chris said, 'would you like to go hiking?'. I had often thought that would be something I would love to do. The answer was, ‘Yes! When do we start?’ Well, that was just the beginning of a long friendship and the best hiking and life buddy.
From Northern Territory to Tasmania, South Australia and New Zealand we have trained, hiked, laughed and supported each other in tough times. It is amazing how good you feel putting a pack on and going for a long walk.I had a lot to learn. Kakadu, I will never forget, nine days of pure adventure pushing yourself mentally and physically in the heat and dirt, then enjoying the amazing billabongs and creeks to cool off in. I have never looked back, only forward. 2024 Scotland another adventure awaits.
The South Coast Track was another highlight you look back on and to think I did this, I walked 8 days with a full pack. You are on such a high when you walk out. My adult children are amazed at what I do.
Working full time in health administration, hiking is my outlet. You think of nothing else except how do I retire and do this full time? I have great friends who I train and hike with. I am very lucky thanks to Chris who changed my life with that one question, 'Would you like to come hiking?'”
Words_ Chris Burt and Robyn Campbell