Adventure brief
Intermediate Survival Course 1
Push your wilderness skills further with Survival Courses Tasmania’s Intermediate Survival Course 1—a full-day hands-on experience in Tasmania’s wild bushland. Learn natural navigation, firecraft, and improvised tool-making from seasoned instructors in a truly wild setting.
Located in Tasmania’s rugged heartland near Evandale and Kings Meadows, Survival Courses Tasmania offers an authentic climb into the world of practical wilderness skills with its Intermediate Survival Course 1. Set against the backdrop of Tasmania’s diverse terrain—ranging from soft temperate rainforests to windswept plateaus—this full-day experience pushes beyond basic survival, teaching techniques that are both time-tested and tailored to this island’s unique environment. Tasmania’s wild landscapes are layered with dense eucalyptus forests, ancient myrtle beech groves, and sprawling fern gullies.
The course takes advantage of these features to immerse students in true fieldcraft, from interpreting natural navigation cues using the sun, stars, and terrain landmarks to advanced water procurement methods like transpiration – crucial in a place where fresh water can sometimes be elusive. Fire-making moves beyond matches here, with instructors guiding participants in friction fire techniques and innovations such as char cloth production, helping learners to create reliable flame sources in any condition. What sets this course apart is its location on pristine bushland or a small wild island, where participants engage hands-on with Tasmania’s native flora and fauna.
The knowledge shared includes crafting improvised tools from natural materials—an invaluable skill in remote environments. Workshops also cover fishing techniques using handmade lures and setting snares, reflecting traditional skills adapted to Tasmania’s wilderness. Survival Courses Tasmania’s instructors bring international training into this local context, anchoring their teaching in practical challenges more often encountered here than elsewhere in Australia.
This course is a standout option for adventurers seeking to build confidence and resilience in an environment where nature’s conditions can be unpredictable. Evandale offers a historic rural gateway for this adventure, a town known for its colonial architecture and vibrant community events, giving travelers a warm welcome before they embark on this intensive survival journey. Whether sharpening bushcraft skills or deepening outdoor self-reliance, this intermediate course is a rare chance to meet Tasmania’s wildness on equal terms.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Pack layered clothingessential
Tasmania’s weather can shift rapidly; dress in layers to regulate temperature throughout the day.
- 02Bring a reusable water bottleessential
Although water procurement is taught, always carry enough water for initial hydration before the course begins.
- 03Wear sturdy footwearimportant
Expect uneven terrain including rocky and boggy areas; supportive boots will help maintain footing and comfort.
- 04Prepare for insectsinfo
Tasmania's bush can have biting insects—consider insect repellent to help maintain focus on training.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Weatherproof jacket
Protects against wind, rain, and sudden weather changes common in Tasmanian bushland.
allEssentialSturdy hiking boots
Provides reliable traction and ankle support on rough, variable terrain.
allEssentialWater bottle
Necessary for hydration before and after learning water procurement techniques.
allEssentialInsect repellent
Helpful to reduce annoyance from insects during warmer months.
spring|summerLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
The lesser-trafficked Western Plateau of Ben Lomond National Park, Secluded pockets of old-growth myrtle beech forest near Evandale
Local fauna
Tasmanian pademelon, green rosella parrots
Historic heritage
Tasmania’s rugged landscapes have a long history of indigenous connection and pioneering bushcraft traditions that inform modern survival skills today.
Mindful exploration
Survival Courses Tasmania emphasizes low-impact practices to minimize environmental disturbance and promotes respect for native ecosystems in all training.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Lookout points on Ben Lomond Western Plateau, Fern-draped forest clearings, Lakeside edges along the course perimeter
- Subjects
- Textured bark and foliage, Local wildlife including birds and marsupials, Campfire scenes and hands-on skill demonstrations
- Best times
- Golden hour, early morning, late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is prior survival experience required?
Yes, you should have completed the Essential Basic Survival Course 2 or possess equivalent knowledge before enrolling.
What should I wear for the course?
Dress in durable, layered clothing suitable for outdoor conditions and sturdy hiking boots for uneven terrain.
Are meals provided during the course?
Hot beverages are included, but participants should bring their own snacks or meals as needed.
Can teenagers participate?
Yes, the course is open to ages 12 and up, but minor participants should be accompanied by an adult.
Where exactly do the courses take place?
Sessions are held in remote bushland areas or small wild islands near Evandale and Kings Meadows.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The course runs rain or shine, but instructors will adjust activities as necessary to ensure safety.