Learn a new skill of map reading
Learn a new skill of map reading
Bush Navigation
The skills of reading a map and using a compass are essential for bushwalking and having these skills means relying less on your phone and being stuck when it runs out of battery or loses signal. Knowing the basics will also give you confidence to be out on your own or tackle a new walk with friends. It will give you the knowledge to start learning more about navigation and the enthusiasm to get out and about.
This day hike is for people who have limited navigation skills and would like to upskill, or those wanting to refresh their skills. We'll cover things like:
- Contours
- Scale
- Map orientation
- Terrain matching
- Route choice
- Compass types, cost and use.
- Norths (all of them!)
- Taking and following a bearing
- Phone navigation
We will provide a topographic map of the area and a compass (or you can bring your own) and, after a briefing to go over some of the basics and a summary of the walk, we will head off into the bush to learn new skills under the guidance of our instructors. This walk will be a variety of both on and off-track with full reliance on our navigation skills to get to certain pre-marked features and challenges. This isn’t a race or competition, just a fun day out walking through the forest to learn and apply the essential skills of navigation using a map and compass.
This informative day out entails the best of hiking and navigation so join our experienced guides and get out of your comfort zone with people you can trust.
WHERE IS THE EVENT LOCATED:
10 minutes outside of Ballan, to the west of Melbourne
It's lovely forest for walking through, with some light to moderate scrub, perfect for walking through and having some fun. This event get a huge amount of positive feedback - so come and try it out.
We usually walk about 8-10km with some off-track and some tracks/road.
There at NO TOILETS on this walk or at the start/finish. The nearest toilets are in Ballan on your way to the event.
What's included
Activities, Training & Equipment
All programme activities and equipment, including training and workshops from experienced professionals.
Delicious food
Lunch and snacks including most dietary needs (lunch only on Day Hikes)
Experienced & qualified guides
Our guides are trained to give you the best on and off trail support.
First Aid Support
All our staff are Remote First Aid trained, have comprehensive first aid kits and carry UHF radios and PLBs when required.
Social & Fun
The TSA community is supportive and our groups are welcoming.
Field notes
Trip Highlights
Learn the foundations of navigation in the bush
Learn the foundations of navigation in the bush
Explore new trails
Explore new trails
Meet new friends as you learn together
Meet new friends as you learn together
Where to meet?
This event is held just outside Ballan, to the west of Melbourne.
Additional Information
What to bring
- A small backpack
- Long pants, leggings and/or gaiters (to prevent getting scratched legs)
- Some water for the walk
- Medication, camera, etc…
- Trail shoes or runners are fine for this event
- In hot weather include a hat, sunscreen and extra water with electrolytes
- In cold weather include a waterproof jacket, beanie and spare jumper.
Food
We provide a healthy picnic-style lunch such as fresh wraps or seasonal salads with added protein, and sometimes hot soup in winter. Snacks may include oranges, anzac biscuits, lemon slice, or a sweet treat. We do our best to cater for dietary intolerances like celiac and nut allergies, and preferences such as vegetarian, however we may not be able to accommodate all requests, especially for last-minute bookings or complex requests. In some cases, you may need to bring your own food or an additional charge may apply. Please bring enough water for the day and reach out early if you have any questions. Please bring your own water.
33 Devlins Rd, Mount Egerton VIC 3352, Australia
Map & Location
Getting there
33 Devlins Rd, Mount Egerton VIC 3352
Book your next adventure
Next departure August 30, 2026 – August 30, 2026 · From $189.00 per person. Still got questions? We're happy to help.
Enquire
Still got questions? We're happy to help!
Not sure about grading, flights, or whether this trip is right for you? Ask away — we answer every enquiry personally.
- hello@takeshapeadventures.com.au
- Mon–Fri 9am–5pm · Sat–Sun 10am–2pm