Know Your Committee - Romaine Fawcett

How long have you been walking with YHA? My first walk was in 2004 to Mt Donna Buang. It took me another year to do a second walk, which was Mt Macedon and although I had massive blisters from new boots, the experience was great and I have been walking with the club ever since.

What attracted you to us in the first place? My sister introduced me to the walking group. I hate gyms and wanted an outlet that would help keep me fit as I have a massive bucket list of things I still want to do and see. The social aspect of the club was appealing – doing an activity I enjoy with like-minded people. Someone is always just coming back from an amazing trip or planning one and I love to hear all the travel adventures.

What's been your favourite walks so far? So many wonderful trips it is hard to pinpoint my favourite. I loved the Dargo River for its remoteness and river walking. I loved the Crinoline for the amazing views from our campsite. I loved swimming in Refuge Cove at Wilsons Prom.I loved the Overland track for the challenges and rewards of climbing the peaks – Cradle Mountain, West Pelion, Ossa and The Acropolis. Many more to come…

Were there any moments when you wondered why on earth you took up bushwalking? Only once when I didn't think I could make it to the end of the first day on a pack carry. But with the help of a very patient leader I got there in the end. That trip was Mt Feathertop via the Bon Accord spur.

Strangest sight on a walk? That's easy. Coming over a ridge we heard a horn blowing. There beyond the ridge was a fully operational steam engine on its own track bordering state forest less than 2 hours from Melbourne. What can I say - boys toys!!.

Funniest moment? When I was trying very carefully to enter a stream to have a quick wash, as it was freezing (Overland Tassie trip), and I fell flat on my bottom and went totally underwater. I had a total look of shock on my face whilst my two fellow walkers were desperately trying to maintain composure. They only started laughing at me when I laughed at myself.

Are there any luxury items you usually like to take on a pack-carry?Wine, chocolate and perfume. Obviously I am high maintenance.

Favourite meal camping in the bush… Would have to be spaghetti bolognaise accompanied by a glass of red chateau box. A small amount allowed for the sauce. Also pre dinner nibbles are a highlight.

What places haven't you been to yet that you'd most like to visit? High on the list would be Vietnam (Sapa region) and Nepal (Annapurna trek). The attractions being the amazing walks and the immersion in the culture of these countries.

Favourite movie? What can I say I am an incurable romantic so it would be a toss up between 'An Officer and a Gentleman' or 'The Deer Hunter' or perhaps 'Out of Africa'.

Do you have any suggested improvements for the club? I think that we need to continue to encourage and support walkers who want to take the next step and be walk leaders in the club, thus ensuring we can continue to offer wonderful walking experiences to our members. I would like to see continued projects giving back to the environment we so enjoy.

And finally, any advice for new walkers? Give it a go! If I can do it any one can. I've progressed from Sunday walker to base-camping to pack carrying and am loving it. You just need to be prepared to go out of your comfort zone. The rewards are great!!