Great Walk Network (GWN) was founded in 1988 as a protest walk from Denmark to Perth to save WA’s old-growth forests. Nearly 40 years later, it remains a thriving community of campers and walkers who share a love of the environment. Each Autumn and Spring,
members come together for 10-day walks supported by a bus, truck and bush kitchen. Throughout the year, members also gather at their “Tribal Ground”, a beautiful private property in Nannup. We spoke with Judy Weinert who shared why she loves being a member of Great Walk Network.
How would you describe GWN to someone who’s never heard of it before?
The Great Walk Network is a diverse community that loves walking and camping together. We welcome all ages, including families, solo walkers, and newcomers. We host several walks each year, typically during the Autumn and Spring school holidays. Walks are usually 10 days and we camp on private, peaceful properties. We travel with our own bus, truck and bush kitchen. Our committee and volunteers organise a walk program and plan all of our catering.
Why did you join GWN?
My family joined GWN many years ago, when our children were in primary school. We were invited along by another family. We were new to WA at the time, and getting involved was a wonderful way to explore and enjoy this very different environment. Having had a break for quite a few years, we’re back and once again making the most of this unique experience. One thing that keeps us coming back is the way we set up and run the camp together. Every camp is slightly different. There’s always joy in the experience of everyone pitching in and helping in whatever ways they can, and in walking, eating and relaxing together.
What makes GWN special/unique?
GWN began as a protest walk in 1988 to raise awareness about logging WA’s old-growth forests. That first walk started in Denmark and ended on the stairs of Parliament House in Perth. The story goes that a shared love of the environment and the spirit of community and connection kept the group together, and here we are in 2025, 37 years later with several of those original protest walkers still active in GWN.
What kinds of activities does GWN offer?
Our number one focus is walking and camping together throughout WA. GWN also cares for a beautiful property in Nannup that we call our Tribal Ground. It was a generous donation from John Thomson, who had a long career in forestry in WA. We have informal camps there and members can enjoy the peace and space throughout the year.
How many activities does GWN offer each month/year?
Our usual program involves an Autumn and Spring walk, around the school holidays in April and September. We also have an informal annual Summer camp over the New Year break that includes our club AGM. Busy bees and other gatherings are also scheduled throughout the year to maintain our Tribal Ground.
What are your favourite places to hike?
We live close to the Cape to Cape track and that’s a regular favourite of mine. What I love about the GWN program is that it takes me to places I haven’t been and gives me a new perspective. The privilege of staying on private property often means insights into an area, an environmental issue or a community that you may not easily otherwise access.
Learn more about Great Walk Network here.
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