In an effort to complete the next stage of their Duke of Edinburgh's International Award (better known as Duke of Ed), students recently completed their Silver Qualifying walk.

The walk, being 58 kilometres, was the longest so far, however it was also the most picturesque and enjoyable walk so far.

The campaign started earlier than expected when the caravan of cars was halted mid-way up the mountain to Gloucester Tops Falls by a huge fallen tree.

Luckily for the team, parent Andrew Blamires was on board and it was quickly dispensed with.

As the road block set the team back an hour and a half it was up to James McCleod and Jacob Sopher to ensure we got to camp at Wombat Creek before nightfall; a feat made easier thanks to recent trail works by the National Parks and Wildlife staff.

The second day proved an easier and more familiar walk as we skirted the plateau taking in the sights at Careys Peak, Mount Barrington and Eremeran Lookout.

A pause to regroup as we came into Little Murray was in order as a brumby stallion seemed intent on us going elsewhere.

Arriving at Little Murray, everyone relaxed, set up camp and ate a leisurely dinner until what appeared to be a jet engine thunder toward us through the trees.

Fortunately, the wind dropped and as night fell it started to gently rain. Vastly different to the weather experienced in Gloucester that Saturday night.

The final day greeted us again with perfect weather, cool and overcast.

We walked, what has to be the best walking track in the Barrington Tops National Park - The Kholwha trail which leads down into Moppy.

Meeting us there was Hamish and his dad, Mark McClure with a bacon and egg burger and fresh juice.

What a way to end a fantastic weekend.

A big thanks goes out to all the property owners who let use pass through their properties during our long, but thrilling adventure. A big thanks to all the parents that acted as our chauffeurs drivers taking care of the pick-ups and drop offs and thank you to the volunteers, Marika Hollingsworth and Chris Moulds for coming along for the ride.

Duke of Ed

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is available to all 14–24-year-olds, regardless of their background, comprising of three levels each progressively more challenging. Participants are required to complete four sections at each level: Voluntary Service, Skill, Physical Recreation and Adventurous Journey.