Bush tucker plan

by Justin Biggar

April 16, 2008

AUSTRALIA has a khaki-clad history of media-savvy bushbashers, from larger-than-life croc’ hunter Steve Irwin to laconic bush tucker man Les Hiddins.

However, our love of watching outback adventures on TV is far removed from the harsh realities of true bush survival, says a local bush survival specialist.

The Bob Cooper Outdoor Education Centre is seeking to change perceptions of TV viewers in a free bushcraft seminar to be held at Piney Lakes Reserve on April 12.

"People have no idea how quickly they can get in trouble," says bush survival teacher Vanessa Paget.

Ms Paget developed her love of nature as a child when growing up in Derby, but it was attending a Bob Cooper bush survival course in 1995 that "turned everything upside down and inside out".

She left that course determined to share her bush knowledge with other Australians.

The two-hour survival session will focus on challenges and dangers that confront anyone stranded alone, far from help. The perils include water shortages, toxic plants, and no food or fire.

Most importantly, the course will tackle fears that can grip a person when they find themselves stranded in woop-woop.

 "Staying calm and finding shelter is on top of the list," says Ms Paget.  "You have to get the blood pressure and anxiety down."

The Piney Lakes course is already booked out. Call the Bob Hooper Outdoor