Munda Biddi Trail

Tips & thoughts from Dave Irwin.

Introduction,
Some one once said, “life is not about what you achieve but what you experience.” The trail runs from Mundaring to Collie, the ride can be as hard or easy, as you like depending on how far you peddle. Stopping overnight at towns and settlements will half the distance between bush campsites and is great opportunity to be able to have a wash and look around. The following guide is not complete and may contain errors, it is intended to be helpful, any one attempting the potentially hazardous trail must satisfy themselves that they have the ability to so.

Track,
Signage, expect the worst and you will not be disappointed, it is often missing so if you have encountered 2 junctions with out signs, go back as you are probably no longer on the track. My experience of the detours for such things as controlled burns was that little thought was made to make the new path easy to follow. Keep a close eye of your position on your map at all times. Condition, trees have fallen across the paths, sticks that can damage spokes are every were, some of the paths are so steep they can not be ridden safely, as small pieces of wreckage at the bottom testify. I enjoyed the challenges as they add to experience and give a greater sense of achievement.

Bush campsites,
The shelters look as if they are more suited to park a train in. I think in the design much was placed on the forest stopping strong winds, however they are breezy & cold. If you are prudent and have a mosquito net you can only use the top section as there is no were to attach string if you use the ground floor. Much like the shelters the bike racks are over designed, I was not surprised to see some have been replaced with uncomplicated inexpensive bars. Possums & rats may visit during the night, hanging food from fishing line will stop them, (rats will climb normal string). No fires are allowed so bring a small stove to cook with. Over nighting in the bush is great, so close to nature, the company of like-minded people and the birds singing in the morning is not to be missed.

Type of bike,
Road racing bikes are just not suitable, Hybrids & mountain bikes are OK, however with the very cheap bikes purchased from department stores extra care must be taken that the flimsy rear de-railer does not get damaged. Less air pressure in your tyres will give you better control in sand and gravel. A backpack can be dangerous, as you become unbalanced. The performance of my hybrid with a rear carrier with 2 panniers really impressed me.

What to bring,
The amount of weight carried will make a big difference to the performance of bike and your enjoyment. Try to bring the best and lightest things you will need. Personal protection- Helmet, sun glasses, light raincoat, insect repellent (ticks are common), sun block, first aid kit, compass, whistle. Water- 4 liters a day minimum. Sports performance additives or just cordial can be added to help make the drink more palatable. Rainwater at campsites should be treated before drinking, my main concern is that tapeworm eggs in Possums excreta may enter the rain water tanks from the roof. Treat by (boiling for 10 minutes or tablets) Poring hot water into your plastic drink bottles may wreck them. Maps- Purpose made maps are available, they are essential. Unfortunately the maps are out dated (roads & tracks may have gone or been realigned). The maps all so have no reference trees on them. Sleeping gear- mat, sleeping bag, blowup pillow, thermal underwear and a mosquito net (the mosquito’s are plentiful and carry disease). Repair kit- Pump, in a tube, tools and puncher repair. Food- here are some suggestions. Rolled oats add powdered milk, Boiled eggs keep for many days, Noodles, instant potato, surprise peas, dried onion, salmon in foil packs, craft cheese, instant pudding, pasta pack, Soup with noodles. To keep weight down only take enough to get from one town to the next.

Last words,
As it was when a child I found each day on the track filled with wonder and learning, so when I think back a warm feeling of happiness fills me for days well lived. Remember it is all about the experience.