NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service urges bushwalkers to plan ahead

The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging bushwalkers to prioritise safety before heading out on long or remote walks by using two simple tools - personal locator beacons and trip intention forms.

No larger than a mobile phone, but far more reliable, personal locator beacons are especially useful for long-distance and multi-day hikes. When activated, these devices transmit a distress signal via satellite, allowing emergency services to locate your location, even without mobile reception.

Personal locator beacons can be hired for free from 12 national park visitor centres across the state or purchased at quality outdoor supply shops.

Trip intention forms are also a critical safety tool for hikers. They provide NPWS with key information about a planned route, expected return time and even the colour of clothing being worn by walkers. This information should also be shared with an emergency contact before departing.

Hikers should ensure they are educated on the planned route, comfortable with its difficulty and ideally travel in a group of three or more people, while wearing bright, waterproof, windproof and light weight clothing. They should also wear protective shoes, a hat and sunscreen; as well as carry essential supplies such as water, food, first aid kit, matches, a torch, a topographic map and compass.

NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Acting Deputy Secretary Naomi Stephens noted “in New South Wales we are lucky to be surrounded by incredible national parks, but these landscapes can be unforgiving and it's very easy to get lost, whether you are new to hiking or a seasoned veteran.

“We welcome around 53 million visitors a year to national parks across the state. Given these numbers, it is crucial for hikers to inform someone about their plans, carry a personal locator beacon, and ensure they are well-equipped with the necessary supplies.”

Locations for hiring personal locator beacons are listed on the NPWS website.

Trip intention forms can be submitted at a visitor centre when collecting a personal locator beacon, or online on the NPWS website.

Further advice about hiking safety is available on the NPWS bushwalking safety webpage. 

Images. Personal locator beacons. Credit: NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service