Top of the world – Maria Island
13 leaders and 5 staff/volunteers climbed Bishop and Clark on Maria Island recently as part of the annual leadership training event . For most of these people, this was the first time on the island and for most people, the first time they had climbed a mountain. The feeling of accomplishment and sense of pride in yourself for making it to the top can be seen on these faces.
The 12km return walk climbs from grassland, through open forest and tall woodland, to the rocky slopes and towering dolerite columns of the summit (620m). These were named Bishop and Clerk because of the resemblance to a bishop, wearing a mitre, being followed by a clergyman. The views from the summit were magnificent. As the walk involves steep up and downhill sections, and an extensive field of rock boulders, it is best suited to experienced walkers – the fact that all the leaders made it to the top is something the leaders should be proud of.
The leadership program is an annual event for the Get Outside Program. Building the skills and confidence of young leaders so that they can take out their own communities safely into Tasmanian National Parks. If you are given the opportunity to fall in love with nature and learn how to be in it safely – you are more likely to look after it, and enjoy the health benefits that all of us in Tasmania can enjoy by getting outside.
Thanks to PWS ( on and off the island), Get Outside Leadership team and volunteers for the awesome support for this walk.
