Trek 4 Shelter heads to the Hume and Hovell Track

Rotarians and adventure seekers are being invited to tackle the first leg of the historic Hume and Hovell Track this October, combining an unforgettable wilderness experience with vital fundraising for ShelterBox Australia.

Stretching through the rugged landscapes of southern New South Wales, the Hume and Hovell Track offers more than just a long-distance walk – it’s a journey into the heart of Australia’s early colonial history. Following the route taken by explorers Hamilton Hume and William Hovell in 1824, this 420km trail winds through forests, farmland, rivers and alpine foothills, connecting the towns of Yass and Albury along the Murray River. This October, you are invited to join ShelterBox Australia on the first leg of this iconic trek.

The Hume and Hovell Track passes through country that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for tens of thousands of years, long before Hamilton Hume and William Hovell made their expedition.

The lands along the route are traditionally associated with several Indigenous groups, including the Ngunnawal people around Yass, the Wiradjuri people across much of inland New South Wales, and the Yorta Yorta people closer to the Murray River near Albury. Each of these nations has a deep cultural, spiritual and practical connection to the land, its waterways, plants and animals. Today, the track invites modern adventurers to step into the footsteps of these pioneering figures, blending natural beauty with a powerful sense of heritage.

“Since its launch in 2018, our Trek 4 Shelter Campaign has taken supporters from the Annapurna in Nepal to the Kokoda Track in PNG, and covered some of Australia’s most iconic treks, including the Larapinta, the Tarkine and the Cape to Cape,” said ShelterBox Australia CEO Mike Greenslade. “Together, we’ve raised over $350,000 for disaster relief!

“Our latest offering, the Hume and Hovell Track, is both a physical challenge and a deeply rewarding experience. Its diverse terrain showcases the changing character of the Australian landscape – from open grazing country to dense bushland – while the well-maintained trail and campsites make it accessible to both seasoned trekkers and ambitious beginners.”

The trek is being organised by ShelterBox Australia and a group of Rotarians from District 9705. Mandy Carter (nee Wade), from the Rotary Club of Yass, NSW, has been instrumental in initiating the trek.

“Hume and Hovell’s Expedition has always held a deep personal connection for me,” said Mandy. “Our Wade family connection to one of the two original Hume residences in Yass spans multiple generations since my grandfather purchased the property. I’ve walked parts of the track myself and hope one day to complete it in full.

“This is also a wonderful opportunity to support ShelterBox, a cause close to my heart through my work with the Rotary Club of Yass over the past several years.

“I’m excited to share the beauty of the region with others and offer the insight that comes from genuine local knowledge and connection.”

Ken Hutt is another Rotarian on the organising team, with vast experience in organising adventures, like last year’s Everest Base Camp expedition for End Polio Now. Ken, a member of the Rotary Club of Berry, NSW, completed the Kokoda Track with ShelterBox in 2024.

“I cherish the opportunity to share outdoor adventures, particularly with those that may think they will never do it or they can’t do it,” said Ken. “It’s about having a go, getting involved and surprising yourself with what you can achieve. Let’s achieve together and win for ShelterBox, supporting those families in the most challenging time of their life.”

• If you like the sound of the Hume and Hovell Trek and want to find out more, visit shelterboxaustralia.org.au/hume-and-hovell-trek