Queensland Inc. (BWQ) is a sports club based in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It serves as the peak body for affiliated bushwalking clubs in the state, as well as representing the wider bushwalking community through advocacy with land managers and government departments. Run by volunteers, BWQ is a non-profit and non-commercial association.
Bushwalking, also known as hiking, tramping, hill walking, rambling, or trekking, is the activity of recreational walking in bush land or natural areas. It is typically done within National Parks or other protected regions, either on designated tracks or off-track. It is essential for bushwalkers to properly prepare themselves with suitable clothing, equipment, food, and water to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The best time to engage in bushwalking in Queensland is during winter when the weather is mild and sunny. Summer is generally the wet season and can be very hot. It is important to carry a torch and plan to complete the walk before sundown as there is no twilight in the area.
BWQ strongly encourages individuals interested in bushwalking to join a local club. These clubs offer peer support, resource and knowledge sharing, advice on suitable walk gradings for beginners, and teach minimum impact bushwalking skills for ethical and safe walking. They also organise carpooling to share transport costs. Additionally, clubs provide a social structure that benefits members for a lifetime.
In case of emergencies during bushwalks, individuals should dial 000 for life-threatening or time-critical incidents and explain the situation. For lost individuals or parties overdue by more than 24 hours, dial 000 and ask for the Police. If there is no signal, try 112 for the extended mobile network. BWQ affiliated search response group FMR Inc.
Can also be contacted by bushwalking clubs to alert the Response Coordinators Contact List.
Clubs affiliated with BWQ participate in an Australia-wide insurance scheme administered by Bushwalking Australia, which provides Personal Accident and Public Liability cover. Insurance details can be found on BWQ's official website.
BWQ is affiliated with several organisations, including Bushwalking Australia Inc. , Outdoors Queensland, and Queensland Walks. These partnerships enable further support, networking, and collaboration within the bushwalking community.
For the latest information on park or track closures, individuals can visit the BWQ website or subscribe to their RSS and Twitter feeds. Relevant park alerts are also posted on BWQ's Facebook Group and Page.
General inquiries and news can be accessed through BWQ's official website, Facebook Page, Facebook Group, and Twitter account. Bookings for club walks are not made through BWQ; individuals should contact the clubs directly for any walk-related inquiries. Correspondence can be sent to BWQ via email or postal mail.
Bushwalking QLD is dedicated to promoting responsible bushwalking practises and fostering a strong community of bushwalkers in Queensland.