Autumn is here, and with it comes a rejuvenated walks calendar. I don’t know about you, but there’s a lot I’m looking forward to. Don’t forget to put some time aside for the mag though; there’s some great stuff inside this issue. First, we have last year’s club trip to the Great South West Walk. It really is an under-valued gem. Not only should everyone do it, but everyone can do it.

Next is the story of a club member’s return to climb Mount Jagungal after weather scotched his first attempt. The route he’s described could be a good option if you’re looking for a quick and still challenging hike on the way to the east coast. Further afield, Lee describes his walk in a less-explored part of Japan. It combines a very satisfying itinerary with the chance to get to know rural Japan without the crowds.

The next article came about when the author reached out to correct a mistake in our report on the water tank installation. Since the mistake was down to my ignorance, I was delighted that he was willing to tell us who the WTSG are and what they do. It’s a bit like finding out that Santa Claus has been delivering those presents to us all these years after all.

Is the next piece about some shoes a piss take, a whinge or a fun story? That’s up to you to decide. This mystery is followed by something I’m very glad to promote: a working bee on the Bill Lindsay Trail which gives a very good feel for what it is, plus some links to more information. In July Paul will be leading a qualifying walk along the BLT and I highly recommend it, based on the fun we had last year. Get on the overflow list if it’s full – there are sure to be dropouts.

Lucky last is something I’ve personally loved restoring from our archive: Tony Mardel’s excellent and practical guide to the eucalypts in our region. He turns what often feels like specialist knowledge into a subject within our grasp, something we probably all feel inadequate about but want to master. Let me tell you, it’s still not easy, but even if you only attempt to ID one tree per walk, you’ll soon get your eye in. Even better, make it a group challenge – and count me in if you do!

One final comment: this issue represents a new high water mark in articles being submitted without me having to nag anyone! Nearly everything here is the result of members reaching out with stories rather than me having to chase them down. It makes for a much better magazine for us all and my gratitude is unending.