Camping it up in the bush
Lyndon Barnett
Sydney’s gay camping group almost didn’t make it past their second bush trip.
“We turned up to Newnes in winter expecting a peaceful weekend away with few other campers. However, also at the site were dozens of bikers. We didn’t quite know how they’d react if we unfurled the gay flag,” group founder Alec Beckett said.
“We ventured over and they appreciated us making the first move. Both had a great weekend.”
Since those early days, Gay Camping NSW has grown from 12 people attending the first trip to Kangaroo Valley in October 2007 to 60 people at the recent Southern Highlands expedition.
The group now goes on around one camping trip a month, as well as day trips for activities like kayaking and bushwalking.
Beckett believes the success of the group lies in the friendships made.
“Because you really get to know people properly over a few days, they become friends faster than a clubbing situation. People come to camp in a safe social environment. We also go to fantastic locations,” he said.
“There are no barriers to conversation and no expectation that you’re talking to someone to pick them up. Being a camping group means everyone is already down-to-earth and genuine, so that bodes well for many good quality connections,” he said.
“Speaking to members, a common comment I hear is that they’re sick of the clubbing scene and want to get away from the ‘gay scene’. I used to agree with them but now I’m saying we are also part of the scene, we are just an alternative to the gay clubbing scene.”
Beckett’s initiative has spawned similar groups around Australia.
“Gay Camping Queensland, Victoria and Northern NSW started directly as a result of the NSW group,” Beckett told Sydney Star Observer.
There is one question prospective campers regularly ask Beckett: ‘Is this an orgy group?’
“I respond by saying it’s absolutely not. People meet people and as a by-product people might meet their partner but it’s not a group where 30 people have sex in the bush. It is just a group where anyone can come and enjoy our native bushland.”
I have been on a few trips and have met some amazing guys and gals in some awesome places in all weathers. Apart from getting away from the city and enjoying the outdoors, they are an incredibly down to earth bunch and huge fun to be with. Give it a go sometime.
I love Gay Camping NSW! Had a great time up near Forster. Now if only I can convince the rest of my 5-star only friends that roughing it is more fun…
Everyone was friendly across all ages and I met some really nice people. And let’s face it – getting out of the city every now and then is always a good thing.
Can’t wait to go again soon…
I attended the recent camping trip to Wollundilly River near Wombeyan caves on the Oct long weekend. It was my first time ‘Gay Camping’. I met some lovely men and caught up with a few old friends too.
It was so nice to meet a bunch of gay guys who are into camping out in nature like me. The guys were very welcoming, friendly and helpful. And so polite! I’m was heartened to meet some Gay male Sydney-siders with whom I can relax and feel accepted. There were a few lovely international guys there too. A bonus!
Gregory
Canberra/Perth
It has a nice ring to it that quote: “Camping it up in the bush”.
I joined the second camping trip of GCNSW in December 2007 and I got hooked. All on a sudden the number of my friends in Sydney multiplied. Since then, I took part in most of the camping trips. I organised two trips myself. If you like nature, good company, refreshing weekends, then this group is for you.
Friendly and helpful bunch of guys. Easy to make new friends and lots of fun; I’ve learned about 4 wheel driving, seen lots of parks and enjoyed lots of great chats with the guys especially around the campfire or on the optional walks. I recommend it:give it a go.
It’s pretty awesome there’s a social alternative to dance parties on long weekends. You can see some of the stuff we’ve done on our web site, or find us on Facebook.
…although, being on Facebook is not a prerequisite for camping! They also have a website: http://www.gaycampingnsw.com
Love this group, I’ve only been on a couple of trips, but they’ve both been a lot of fun. Looking forward to going to more trips in the warmer weather!
If you’re keen to join the group, search “Gay Camping NSW” on Facebook.
It is a great group! I attended my first trip last year’s anniversary camp on the long October weekend and have joined most of the camps ever since. It was also on these camps where I met and got to know my, now, fiance! Truly awesome people.
I love Gay Camping NSW!
Been on many camping trips and always had a fantastic time, not to mention the boys are hot!!!