8-10 March - Mt Cole, Red Rock and Ben Nevis long weekend

The WVCC March long weekend base camp will be run from our campsite in the Chinamas Campground at the western end of Mt Cole State Park from Friday evening 7 March to mid-afternoon on Monday 10 March 2025.

Camping is free, but you are advised to turn up early as it is a long weekend and it is first in-first served. There are toilets and a covered eating area, but no showers.

If you haven't climbed in Mt Cole, then the rock is granite. On the top of the mount along the main forest road, the climbing is on granite tors and craglets with a mix of trad, bolts and bouldering. At Red Rock and Ben Nevis the climbing is on large slabs/faces that require three 50m abseils in to get to the bottom of the cliff. This is not a place for novices, as you need to be able to pass a knot on abseil, as well as be able to climb a rope using prussiks.

You will need a 50-60m rope, as well as a full rack. The slabs are bolt protected, but the bolts are "carrots" and require hangers, and are well spaced (10m), so you need to be comfortable with long runouts. You will need helmet, harness and boots.

All intending participants must contact the trip coordinator, Marc Graesser,  prior to the trip to confirm your intentions and experience - and to ask questions if you are unsure of arrangements (0439 789 073)

You will need to bring all the necessaries for outdoor camping if you are coing for the weekend.

• camping gear
• food and water
• suitable clothing - check the weather forecast a few days prior.