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Topic Date User

Alpine courses? 17-Feb-2006 At 10:18:57 AM Robb

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I'd recommend doing a course with one of the established companies. aspiring guides, alpine guides etc or go for the private guiding option. the longer the time you can afford, the better. you will get bad weather. I've never done a course, but all the people ive talked to have said it was a worthwhile experience.
i'd agree with the point that a course in australia would be of limited use because there are no glaciers in australia. crossing glaciers is one of the more dangerous aspects of mountaineering and some experience here is invaluable.
I know a couple of guys who did a short (cheaper course) with alpine recreation out of the caroline hut near ball pass and they didnt do a whole lot of glacier stuff. they went back the follwing year a bit too gripped to head into the main range because they didnt feel that comfortable in the terrain. they ended up drinking alot of bee in the pubs.
the best thing you can do after the course is just spend time in the mountains, refining crampon techniques and just gettting comfortable reading conditions and being in the mountains.
alpine climbing is great. it offers a whole new range of experiences like no other.
hint - get really fit before you go and you'll suffer less.

cheers
Rob