Caving

Caving is all about finding holes in the ground, finding a way down into the tunnel network and then finding a way back out. Sounds easy? It's dirty work. Be prepared to be squished and squashed against all manner of rocks and other underground menaces.

What do I need to bring on trips?

This depends on the area you're going to. Read the section on Equipment For Caving to find out the basic gear you need, and then look up the guide to Caving areas to see what other equipment (such as camping gear) you should bring.

Do I need training?

For many trips no prior experience in required: however, there are a number of caves at regular Caving locations that require more technical skills eg abseiling. Training trips are run throughout the year to teach these skills.

When are the beginner's trips?

While there are a number of beginner-oriented trips at the start of the university year, almost any trip during the year can cater for beginners: check with the trip leader and let them know you haven't done much Caving before.

Common Caving Areas

Below is a list of common caving destinations for the Club.

Labertouche

Labertouche is a single cave in granite and is normally run as a day trip from Melbourne and is an excellent introduction to Caving.

Location
SSE of Melbourne approximately 2hrs along Monash Fwy

Conditions Underground
Generally a stream in bottom level of cave - should not get wet beyond knees, probably not ankle unless you deliberately try. Thermals typically not required for this Caving area.

Facilities
None

What to Bring
Basic Caving Gear

Brittania Creek

This is a cave in grantine and is not often visited Caving area due to the lack of any significant caves like Labertouche.

Conditions Underground
There is a stream in bottom level of cave - likelihood of getting significantly wet is greater than Labertouche as much more of the cave is at the stream level. Cave has appeal due to its maze-like nature and multiple entrances; however it is quite small. Thermals typically not required for this Caving area.

Facilities
None

What to Bring
Basic Caving Gear

Buchan

Nobody can be told what the Buchan is like. You have to see it for yourself.

Location
NE of Bairnsdale approximately 4-5hrs from Melbourne

Conditions Underground
Thermals should be considered for Buchan trips especially for any vertical Caving trip, but many people choose not to wear them at Buchan. On a completely horizontal Caving trip you should be moving more than enough to keep warm while Caving.

Conditions above ground
The overnight temperature at Buchan often differs greatly from the daytime especially in summer it could easily be a 20+ degree day and below zero at night.

Facilities
National Park Campground
Toilet/Shower facilities; Power, laundry (coin operated), BBQ

Homeleigh Cottage
Toilet/Shower facilities; Power, Kitchen including fridge and stoves

What to Bring
Basic Caving Gear, thermals should be considered
Sleeping Bag
Towel, etc for shower
If staying at camp ground: Camping Equipment: Tent/Cooking equipment
Always bring warm clothes/jacket to Buchan