About 200 experienced orienteers from around NSW will compete in our beautiful New England bushland.

Local newcomers may turn up on either or both days. People of any age and ability can join in at their own pace individually or in small groups including families with young children.

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Orienteering is a sport of navigation that develops map reading skills. The term was coined by the Swedish military in the late 19th century to refer to the crossing of unknown terrain with a map and compass.

Participants are given a very detailed topographical map to find control points. At each control, marked by an orange and white flag, an electronic stick registers that you have found it.

Entries on the day can do Moderate, Easy and Very Easy courses. A map, SI stick and compass are available from the club but easy courses do not require a compass.

There is a free string course for younger orienteers. Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle as well as something to eat. There are toilets on site. If you have questions contact organiser Maurice Anker 0478 556 949 or manker@tpg.com.au prior to the day or just turn up.

On Saturday the venue is Kooringle, 23 km west of Armidale on Bundarra Road, first driveway on the right after Booralong Creek. The terrain is grassland and forested rocky slopes.

The event starts 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm. Sunday's venue is Pine Tree, 35 km west of Armidale. Take Bundarra Road 28 km to T-junction, turn right and continue seven kilometres to the entrance on the left. Terrain is farmland and forest with rock outcrops. Start between 8:30am - 10:30am.

The local club was established 40 years ago and has been going strong ever since thanks to a dedicated team of volunteer map makers and course designers. These now include Maurice Anker, Felix Burkhard, Eric Baker, and Don Barker.

To their credit the local club will host the national Australian Orienteering Championships in 2024 so watch this space!

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