I would like to contribute to access debates concerning rap stations on Ben Lomond in a constructive manner and highlight other responsibilities we climbers should take into consideration. I think it was Dirty Harry that said, "Opinions are like arxholes, everyone has one." I'm not here to beat my chest or show anyone disrespect. I want to utilize this great resource to highlight new(?)debate.

There are aspects of our chosen sport/pastime/lifestyle which can have implications upon the greater community. Every time we engage in risky behaviour around cliffs (especially remote areas) and things go wrong, emergency services are required. These services are required by the broader community for life-threatening emergencies also and by people who haven't put themselves at risk by choice. I'm not saying that climbing is unduly risky, but we have a responsibility to minimise risk, for the sake of the greater community. I say this after witnessing 3 ambos being occupied for several hours to sort out a solo climber who had fallen in an area difficult to access recently.

This ties into the great Ben debate in respect to fast retreat, due to uncontrolled factors, not necessarily climber inexperience or lack of ability. We know how rapidly weather can change here, most guides to most crags warn of the Tasmanian weather. The higher the crag, the more severe the weather, the more risk to the party. Rap chains are obviously rap chains, a bolted climb is a bolted climb. A safe, quick descent minimises risk and environmental damage. GPS is a marvellous tool, as is the internet and online guides which utilize these technologies (love your work). A bolted-climb-free zone is reiterated in every bit of climbing literature relating to Ben Lomond! Visiting climbers would surely be aware of these ethics for the area. Additional signage by National Parks could put it beyond doubt.

As climbers we have responsibility to fellow climbers (past, present and future), the amazing environments we play in and the greater community. Egos within the climbing fraternity must remember that groups are frequently judged by the actions of individuals. Some people view bolting as blatant disregard for a pristine natural environment, others think we are crazy to be on mountains/cliffs in the first place. Being "hard" can be seen as irresponsible in the bigger picture. How we conduct ourselves should reflect the commitment and passion we share in our sport and environment. With the proliferation of printed and online guides, additional climbing traffic is inevitable. The fact that Ben Lomond is a day trip destination can only contribute to this also. The impact of this traffic requires cohesive debate and management from all areas.

I hope my rant acheives a small part to further constructive debate and hasn't bored anyone into a coma. Help could be further away than you hope!

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