Since the early 1980s, the Friends have worked side-by-side with rangers to build, maintain and protect the track. On any given week, you might find them clearing fallen branches, fixing a worn signpost, battling an invasive weed or resurfacing a section of track after heavy rain – all to keep it safe and accessible for the thousands who come to walk it each year.

The idea for the walk began with the late Alan (Sam) Burton, then Chief District Ranger of a predecessor to Parks Victoria, and Bill Golding, the former principal of Portland High School.

They dreamed of a looped long-distance walk through the southwest, and in 1981, finally received the green light to go ahead.

Those first 200 kilometres were carved out by hand. Teachers, students and families from Portland High School swung hand tools alongside Sam and Bill, clearing scrub and shaping a track that would become a labour of love for generations. In 1983, the Friends group was formed and continued to work alongside Parks Victoria, Traditional Owners and other community organisations to complete the remaining 50 kilometres, while maintaining the existing trail.

According to Jen Johns, President of the Friends of the Great South West Walk, they remain steadfast in preserving this remarkable legacy. 

“I’m amazed by the number of volunteers and the extent of volunteering that has built the walk from when it started in the early ‘80s, over 40 years ago, to today,” she said.

With a current team of 50 active volunteers, their passion for the walk drives a busy calendar of activities, which include:

• Weekly maintenance of the trail and campsites, including the clearing of fallen trees
• Leading monthly walks and 7-14 day guided camping treks along the 262km route
• Promoting the walk and engaging the community through education programs, landcare projects, and walker liaisons for those that might need additional support.

Some of our volunteers have been with us from the very beginning, while others have joined along the way. Among them is a growing group of volunteer walkers, now in their early retirement, who are helping ensure our efforts continue well into the future,” Jen said.

When resurfacing is required in remote or particularly challenging sections, the Friends often join forces over multiple days, heading out with equipment funded through grants, sponsorships, donations and member contributions to get the job done.

“Every year, we log more than 7,000 hours of work for the trail. When you factor in the time spent planning activities and running committees, the real figure could be twice that amount. When you stop to think about that, it’s really an incredible contribution,” Jen said.

“And it’s worth it – we all benefit enormously from the friendships we make, the camaraderie we share, and the knowledge that we’re contributing something that goes well beyond ourselves.”

Parks Victoria Ranger Team Leader, Peter Hill, said the Friends of the Great South West Walk represent the power of volunteering and local pride.

“The volunteers that make up the Friends of the Great South West Walk have collectively given thousands of hours over almost five decades — building infrastructure, clearing trails, battling weeds and helping ensure this walk remains accessible for all,” he said. “This walk is not just about the scenery; it’s about the people who make it what it is, and what a great bunch they are.” 

“The walk is internationally recognised but it’s powered by local passion,” he said. “Without the Friends group, the Great South West Walk wouldn’t exist in the way we know it today.”

“Our staff, local community groups, and visitors from near and far have all benefitted from the group's expertise and generosity.”

And after a hard day’s work, when it’s time to pause for a cuppa and celebrate their efforts, they make that moment special too.

Over the past five years, the Friends have celebrated the dedication of countless volunteers through an awards program that honours between 10 and 20 years of service. Those recognised have gone above and beyond for the group and landscape they love. 

For the truly exceptional, there’s an even higher honour. Volunteers like Frank Coulson (pictured above), who have devoted more than 40 years of his life to the group and the Great South West Walk, may be awarded a life membership.

As the Friends approach their 50-year milestone as a group, the next celebration will be more than a marker of time – it will be a room full of people like Frank, who have earned a gratitude that can’t be measured.