As with many of our guests, we have stayed in touch with Mike, who has become a great friend. His attitude towards adventure, balancing laid-back enjoyment with steely determination, is something I strive to emulate when the going gets tough on personal trips. Mike is a former copper who was dinged up in a high-speed pursuit, so he brings a unique toughness and resilience to his adventures. For Mike they are accessible adventures.

The enquiry from Mike came through our office during a busy period: “There’s a paraplegic climber from Vic who is keen to see the Blue Mountains, get out climbing, and explore some of the deep dark water holes we have. Could we put something special together?” The delay in speaking with Mike was actually beneficial as it gave me time to think about how we could tailor a challenging and enjoyable adventure to his abilities.

Mike and I chatted on the phone and exchanged text messages several times before he travelled to the Blue Mountains. We ensured his accommodation was accessible, found easy-to-navigate bars and restaurants, and generated a list of non-adventure activities for him to enjoy. By the time Mike arrived, we had already built a strong foundation of trust, crucial for forming an effective rock climbing partnership.

The plan was for Mike to visit for four days, with three days dedicated to adventures and a flexible rest day. After coffee and gear sorting on the first day, we headed to a short training cliff near the car park. Working with another guide, Dylan, we spent the morning assessing Mike’s strengths on the rock and adapting our techniques accordingly. By the afternoon, we were ready for a real adventure and moved to a different site. We abseiled 15 metres into the base of our climb, and Mike was stoked. The height above the Megalong Valley didn’t faze him at all. The climb itself, though not long, was tricky and high above the valley floor. Mike tackled it with determination, and reaching the summit was incredibly rewarding. To get back to the “mainland,” we used a Tyrolean traverse, where Mike’s strong upper body and clear head shone. He moved faster than I did during the demo, looking completely relaxed like some kind of vertical rock star.

After a brief stop at the Three Sisters, we debriefed at The Lookout near Echo Point, enjoying drinks in the sun. The next day, we set out for Empress Canyon. This was going to be a significant effort for Mike and our team, but with our young gun Tim, myself, and Mike, we were confident. Our secret weapon, a mini fold-out camp chair from Bunnings, made resting and gear changes easier for Mike, and it travelled everywhere with us from now on, quickly becoming our team mascot.

We took our time on the walk in. Despite National Parks’ excellent work on the track, it is still a bushwalking track, with some muddy and uneven steps. So many steps! We reached the start of the canyon and changed into our wetsuits and canyon gear. Empress Canyon, with its clear water, deep sandstone walls, and lush greenery, was breathtaking. Moving through the canyon in almost reverent silence, speaking mainly when managed obstacles and enjoyed highlights like the waterfall abseil at the end. The walk out was slow and filled with laughter, and we celebrated at the Conservation Hut with hot chocolates.

The third day was a rest day. We had earned it!

On our last day out, just Mike and I tackled a classic climbing route above the Hartley Valley before travelling to Scenic World for the excellent Buunyal Tour with Gundungurra Elder Uncle David King. This low-key day perfectly combined adventure, education, rest, and socialising, ending the trip on a high note.

Reflecting on our time with Mike, it’s clear that inclusivity, dignity, and safety are paramount. We worked closely with Mike to find the best solutions, adapting each aspect of the trip to his abilities. With extra staff to ensure safety and tools like the camp chair to enhance comfort, we were able to create a tailored and successful adventure. Mike’s positive feedback and ongoing friendship are testaments to the success of the trip. If you’re seeking an accessible adventure that’s both challenging and rewarding, join us at Blue Mountains Climbing School. Let’s create unforgettable memories together.