Excess Weight
Dr. Telemark,
I never cease to be amazed at the amount of excess weight people carry in their packs on bushwalks. I once caught someone carrying a second pair of underpants (76g) even though they were only on a 6 day trip. Another person took a pack of cards (95g), used them only for a few hands of poker and yet carried BOTH jokers. And what about the trip leader who carried the entire ‘Bogong Alpine Area’ map (68g) but only walked within an area covering 20 grid squares?!. I nearly fell off my perch when I heard about that; I was so stunned I had trouble switching on my PC to compose this letter. Nevertheless, thrifty as I am, I’m always on the lookout for fresh tips; any advice?
“Super Lightweight”, Richmond.

Dear SL,
I must admit that I am pretty hopeless in this department and have often been guilty of carrying the odd change of socks, band-aid, paperback novel etc. I once tried cutting my toothbrush in half, problem was I took the wrong piece on the walk. Something that may interest you is this item from the Age newspaper;

“If you plan on some cross country skiing in France this year why not visit Les Clapieres near Briancon in the Alps. You won’t need the latest in trendy ski wear at this resort. All you will need is a large container of sunscreen as this is Europe’s only nudist ski resort. When the weather is fine and the wind blows in the right direction, cross country ski trips are organised for those so inclined”

All over melanoma !!!
Dr. T

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