It’s Royal Coast Walks’ third birthday today, which means it’s three years since founder Ian Wells first pulled on his hiking boots to guide enthusiastic guests through his backyard, Royal National Park.

 

Ian’s on to his third pair of boots in that time and it’s no wonder when you think about the distance he’s walked… more than 2200km (or 1400 miles). That’s like walking from Sydney to Townsville in Far North Queensland, or like walking to Pasadena in Texas to grab a burger when your stomach started rumbling in Los Angeles. Or from London to Morrocco, although he’s probably not talented enough to walk across water. Oh, that doesn’t include what our other guides have walked!

 

The First Pair

These trusty boots had already taken Ian around the world many times, through the Andes, up and over the European Alps and zig-zagging around the Himalaya. As deserving of the most faithful, worn-in boots, they were pulled out again to start the business and witnessed the first steps by guests.

 

The Second Pair

Like the inaugural pair, these boots were worn to death trekking back and forth along Royal’s coast track. In sun and rain, through sand, earth and mud, across flat and up hills, they just kept going and going. The only time these boots were left behind was for award presentation nights. Sorry mate, dusty boots don’t cut it at Sydney and NSW tourism award galas.

 

The Third Pair

Sturdier and more robust, could this be the perfect pair? Royal Coast Walks has big plans for 2012. The new boots are itching to break new ground, so expect more adventures soon!

 

You can see the new hiking boots starring role in the “number 3” picture. That’s Ian’s boots leading the way, Tara’s much smaller blue pair (currently in need of repair) and various family members old boots that were lying around just waiting for a photo opportunity.

 

Sending a big, big thank you to all our enthusiastic guests and amazing team who continue to make this possible. We couldn’t do it without your ongoing support. Here’s to many more pairs of well-worn boots in the future!