Orient yourself here

Get ready for the first orienteering event of the year. Picture: CONTRIBUTED

By Lucy Waldron

Excitement is brewing among outdoor enthusiasts as the orienteering season gears up for a thrilling start.

Dust off your runners and grab your compass because the adventure begins at Scots PGC College this Saturday, 4 February. Organised by the local Bullecourt Boulder Bounders Club, the sprint event promises to set the pace for a series of exhilarating challenges leading up to the bush orienteering season, commencing 10 March at Dalveen.

Liz Bourne, the Publicity Officer for the club, shed light on the unique dynamics of sprint orienteering. Participants will find themselves navigating through a maze of urban landscapes, strategically maneuvering around buildings, pathways, gardens, and sports fields.

“A special colour orienteering map of the school has been meticulously crafted by the club for the event, offering three distinct courses,“ Liz said.

“The longer courses will also explore Federation Park across the Condamine River.“

In a bid to encourage broader participation, Liz extended a warm invitation to local residents curious about orienteering.

“Apart from our local club members, we enthusiastically welcome anyone interested in experiencing orienteering firsthand. No special gear is required, and compasses can be borrowed at the event,“ she said.

The assembly point for the event is slated near the tennis courts at the College on Oxenham Street, with start times ranging from 3.30 to 5.00pm. Beginners can join in the excitement for a nominal fee of $5, and families are encouraged to partake in the adventure together.

For those seeking further details, inquiries can be directed to 4683 6374 or by visiting oq.asn.au/event-calendar

The upcoming event promises not just a physical challenge but an opportunity for participants to immerse themselves in the beauty of outdoor exploration.

So, lace up your shoes, mark your calendars, and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery through the intricate trails of orienteering.