CCA General Meeting (AGM) / guest speaker – Caitlin Horan: North American Climbing Adventures: from limestone sport climbing at Wild Iris to big alpine adventures in the Bugaboos, there is a story here for every climber
2025-11-12 19:00 - 21:30 (Australia/Sydney) | Ainslie Football & Social Club, 52 Wakefield Avenue, Ainslie, ACT, 2602, Australia
This meeting will be our AGM, so we will include election of CCA office bearers for 2025/2026 and a rundown of the CCA’s recent activities plus general climbing news and points of interest. The meeting will be followed by our guest speaker presentation, as usual.
CCA members and non-members are welcome.
Dinner is available from The Limestone Kitchen at the Ainslie Football Club, providing a great chance to relax and socialise with other CCA members before the AGM starts at 7pm – PLEASE NOTE EARLIER START THAN USUAL!! A table in the name of CCA is booked for 5.30pm.

Guest speaker: Caitlin Horan – North American Climbing Adventures: from limestone sport climbing at Wild Iris to big alpine adventures in the Bugaboos, there is a story here for every climber
Join me for an evening of adventure as I share stories from my journeys across North America, ticking off some of the continent’s 50 most iconic climbs. From the soaring granite spires of The Bugaboos to the legendary columns of Devils Tower, the rugged beauty of the Grand Tetons, the world-class limestone of Wild Iris, and the dramatic expanse of the Cirque of Towers in the Wind River Range; I’ll take you through the landscapes, logistics and unforgettable moments of climbing in these incredible places. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or aspiring adventurer, there will be a route here for everyone.

Why are “The Bugaboos” named after an object of worry, fear or alarm?
Originally named the “Nunataks”, the Bugaboo spires were first noted by a surveying expedition in the late 1800s. Mining brought the first Europeans to the region with a small, ill-fated gold rush occurring in 1895 and 1896 near Bugaboo Falls. The area was prospected and staked, but the meager deposits turned out to be mostly pyrite and galena. The name “Bugaboo” originated from this rush; the term was used by prospectors for a “dead-end”.
Source, and more interesting information: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bugaboos
Cait Horan in The Bugaboos

Sport Climbing 101 – Gym to Crag
2025-11-16, 2025-12-04, 2025-12-14, 2026-01-18 | ACT
Learn the fundamentals and become a safe, competent and independent outdoor sport climber.
This CCA course will cater to those starting out climbing, gym climbers, and those looking to improve their skills and knowledge in sport climbing.
The primary focus of this course is on safety, proper technique, and enjoyment of the sport.
Participation
Event registration is required and is now closed.
The course is a four-part series. As it is sequential, all sessions should be attended.
This event is only for CCA members. You cannot join the CCA on the day of the event, and you can only join via the CCA website.
Please note that it takes about a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form on-line and pay the membership fee.
Instruction will be provided by qualified and experienced volunteer leaders from CCA.
Dates and venues

Sunday 16 November – Snake Rock, Namadgi National Park.
Thursday 4 December – evening at Mountain Strong bouldering & fitness gym, Fyshwick – skills workshop.
Sunday 14 December – Tianjarra Falls.
Sunday 18 January – Thompsons Point, Nowra.

Cost
$120 per person, to be paid when registering (contribution to CCA insurance and CCA equipment).
Transport to the course venues is not included; carpooling is recommended.
Essential equipment
Each participant must provide the following climbing gear in good, serviceable condition that is not more than 10 years old. Equipment will be inspected.

Climbing helmet
Climbing harness
2 screw-gate carabiners
Belay device
60cm anchoring sling
Either a 60m dynamic climbing rope OR 12 quick draws OR both
Climbing shoes/boots

Course content
Practical climbing sessions – practical climbing time on rock is maximised.
Safety and risk management – climbing etiquette, environmental awareness, accident prevention.
Climbing gear and equipment – understanding different types of climbing gear and their functions. How to properly use gear – especially Grigri type belay devices.
Basic knots – how to tie essential knots for climbing.
Rope management – proper handling and management of climbing ropes.
Climbing technique – basic and advanced.
Belaying techniques – proper belaying techniques, including both top-roping and lead belaying.
Communication – effective communication signals between climber and belayer.
Lead climbing – clipping techniques, fall management, minimising rope drag, use of clip sticks.
Cleaning anchors.
Falling and resting – how to safely fall while climbing, and techniques for managing falls.
Identifying resting positions on the wall to conserve energy.
Basic abseiling.
Climbing routes and grading – understanding how climbing routes are graded and how to assess and choose routes appropriate to one’s skill level.
Problem solving and complicated terrain.
Fitness and strength training for climbing.
Overview of sport climbing opportunities in Australia and internationally.
Next steps in climbing – guidance on how to further develop climbing skills, including more advanced courses and outdoor climbing opportunities.
Insurance
CCA insurance includes public liability, and association office bearers and volunteer activity leader accident policies.
Course participants are expected to carry their own medical/accident cover and ambulance cover as they deem necessary.

Mount Buffalo Rockclimbing Meet
2025-11-27 - 2025-11-30 | Mt Buffalo, Mount Buffalo Road, Mount Buffalo, Vic, 3740, Australia
[Rockclimbing near The Gorge | Photo: Adventure Guides Australia]
Please note: Mt Buffalo is currently closed to the public due to an ongoing police operation. If this is still in place in the week prior to our Meet, the location will be changed to either the Blue Mountains or Point Perpendicular.
This weekend trip is an opportunity for experienced and independent trad climbers to sample the granite delights of Mount Buffalo – a spectacular and beautiful Alpine plateau in Victoria. Climbers new to Mt Buffalo will be able to become familiarised with the landscape, climbs and access routes.
Participation
CCA members who are competent, experienced and independent trad climbers are welcome.
This event is only for CCA members. You cannot join the CCA on the day of the event, and you can only join via the CCA website.
Please note that it takes about a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form on-line and pay the membership fee.
The Trip Leader for the Meet will be Peter Blunt.
Event registration is required and is available now:
Register for this event Cancel registration
Difficulty & climbing routes
Mt Buffalo offers a wide variety of climbing from “moderate” routes to extremely challenging ones. Mt Buffalo is a predominantly trad area with a few sport climbs. To make most use of the venue, climbers should be able to climb grade 14 comfortably.
Some climbs require significant hikes to the start. Climbs vary from 10m single pitch routes to long multi-pitch routes up to 240m high that involve up to 7 pitches.
The two-volume guidebook to Mt Buffalo climbing is available at Mont Adventure Equipment, Fyshwick. Climbing routes and grades for the Mt Buffalo crags are listed in theCrag.com website.
What to bring
Independent trad climbers are expected to bring their own climbing gear and equipment.
All climbing gear must be in serviceable condition, and ropes, harnesses, helmets and slings must be no more than 10 years old. All climbing equipment must be purpose-designed and certified for use for climbing. All equipment will be inspected prior to activities.
You will also need to bring your own camping gear, food and drinking water for the 3 days.
Be prepared for both cold and warm conditions. A detailed list will be forwarded to people who register for the event.
Campsite location and fees
Campsites have been pre-booked for the 3 nights: Thu, Fri and Sat, at the Lake Catani campground, Mount Buffalo. A camping fee contribution of $40 per person will be collected by the Trip Leader during the trip.
Meeting time and location
We will meet at the Lake Catani campground, Mount Buffalo, on Thursday evening 27/11/25.
Questions
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of the Trip Leader as part of the event registration process.
Mt Buffalo Climbing, The Horn [photo: Tourism North East]

CCA Sport Climbing Celebration
2025-12-04 19:30 - 22:00 | Mountain Strong Bouldering Gym, 66 Townsville Street, Fyshwick, ACT, 2609, Australia
[Climbing in Kalymnos | Photo: John Price]
Join Caitlin Horan and Peter Blunt for an inspirational presentation at Mountain Strong, where they will share stories and trips from sport climbs around the world, including The Red, Wild Iris, Kalymnos, Leonidio, and more.
Photos, videos, and insider info will inspire you to plan your next climbing trip.
Everyone welcome!
Gym entry: $22
7:30pm Presentation / 8:00 – 10:00pm Climbing

CCA Christmas drinks 2025
2025-12-18 18:30 - 21:00 | Capital Brewing Co., Building 3/1 Dairy Rd, Fyshwick, ACT, 2609, Australia
Our last event for the year is the ever-popular Christmas drinks, which will again be held at Capital Brewing Co. in Fyshwick. A table for 20 has been booked in the name of CCA, in the outside beer garden.
Snack type food is available there. Food is also available at brodburger, who have a permanent van in the taproom. Please note that the brodburger kitchen closes at 8pm.
Come along, bring a friend or significant other, and enjoy a night out to unwind with fellow climbers and reflect on the year gone by, to anticipate your Christmas holiday plans, or get some great ideas for holiday destinations from fellow climbers!

Red Rocks Gorge Sport Climbing and Cragcare
2026-03-14 | ACT
[image by Chris Chia]
This is an opportunity for experienced and independent CCA sport climbing members to climb together at Red Rocks Gorge.
It is expected that time will be spent also working on replacing as many of the shining silver bolt brackets as possible with dull powder-coated brackets to reduce the visual impact of climbing.
Participation
CCA members who are competent and experienced sport climbers are welcome to attend.
This event is for current CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the event (* see note about CCA membership below).
The Trip Leader for the day will be Peter Blunt.
Registration
Event registration is required is available now:
Register for this event
The cutoff for registration is 11 March.
(* Note about CCA membership: you can only join CCA via our website, and it takes about a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form on-line and pay the membership fee)
Difficulty
Climbs at Red Rocks Gorge start at grade 16 and range up to the mid 20’s.
Red Rocks Gorge climbing routes & climbing guide
What to bring
Independent sport climbers are expected to bring their own climbing gear and equipment. All climbing gear MUST be in serviceable condition and ropes, harnesses, helmets and slings MUST be no more than 10 years old. All climbing equipment MUST be purpose designed and certified for use for climbing.
Equipment will be inspected prior to activities.
You will also need to bring your own food, water and sunscreen for the day. Be prepared for both cold and warm conditions.
Meeting time and location
Details will be forwarded to people who register for the day.
Enquiries
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of Trip Leader as part of the registration process.

CCA General Meeting / guest speaker: Duncan Brown
2026-03-25 19:30 - 21:30 | Ainslie Football & Social Club, 52 Wakefield Avenue, Ainslie, ACT, 2602, Australia
Come and hear a rundown of the CCA’s recent activities plus general climbing news and points of interest, followed by our guest speaker presentation.
CCA members and non-members are welcome.
Dinner is available from The Limestone Kitchen at the Ainslie Football Club, providing a great chance to relax and socialise with other CCA members before the meeting starts at 7.30pm. A table in the name of CCA is booked for 6pm.
Guest speaker: Duncan Brown
An outdoor athlete’s life is one of trials and tribulations, but few go through as many as internationally renowned Aussie climber Duncan Brown… and all in his own backyard (Australian Geographic Adventure).
Duncan is a prolific first ascensionist who has been quietly putting up an impressive number of new bouldering routes in the ACT region. Most recently, Duncan and his crew have been dedicating significant time and energy to developing a brand new bouldering area at The Outer Rim, out along Corin Road.
This new zone is quickly generating buzz, and Duncan will be sharing insights into the development of the area and what boulderers can expect from this significant addition to the ACT bouldering scene.

Wolgan Valley Rockclimbing Meet
2026-04-24 - 2026-04-27 | ACT
[Photos: Natasha Sebire]
4 days climbing the classics of the rarely-visited and stunning Wolgan Valley
This rockclimbing meet is an opportunity for experienced and independent trad climbers to sample the sandstone delights of the Wolgan Valley – a spectacular, secluded and beautiful valley in the Blue Mountains.
The Wolgan Valley is located along the Wolgan River in the Lithgow Region of New South Wales. It is accessible via the Wolgan Valley Discovery Trail (Wolgan Road), which has remained closed since late 2022 following extreme rainfall which resulted in widespread landslides. CCA has been able to arrange permission to camp and climb in the Valley, and a required escort service has been booked to accompany our group vehicles.
Participation
CCA members who are competent, experienced and independent trad climbers are welcome to attend.
This event is for current CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the event (* see note about CCA membership below).
The Trip Leader for the meet will be Peter Blunt.
Cost
The fee for the required escort service is $200 and will be shared by the group. Camping fees are $70 per car.
Registration
Event registration is required is available now:
Register for this event
The cutoff for registration is Monday 20 April.
(* Note about CCA membership: you can only join CCA via our website, and it takes about a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form on-line and pay the membership fee)
Difficulty
The Wolgan Valley is a predominantly trad area with a few sport climbs. The Valley offers a wide variety of climbing from moderate to extremely challenging routes. To make most use of the venue, climbers should be able to climb grade 14 comfortably.
Some climbs require significant hikes to the start. Climbs vary from 10m single pitch routes to long multi-pitch routes up to 100m high involving up to 4 pitches.
What to bring
Independent trad climbers are expected to bring their own climbing gear and equipment. All climbing gear MUST be in serviceable condition and ropes, harnesses, helmets and slings MUST be no more than 10 years old. All climbing equipment MUST be purpose-designed and certified for use for climbing. All equipment will be inspected prior to activities.
You will also need to bring your own camping gear, food, and drinking water for 3 days or use the “wonderful mountain spring water”. Prepare for both cold and warm conditions. A detailed list will be forwarded to people who register.
Camping
Terrific camping is available on the river flat along the Wolgan River, with some fireplaces, and firewood for sale. Facilities include showers, toilets, taps, a covered area, wood-fired BBQ, sinks and a bookable pizza oven. There is no power.
Meeting time and location
6.00 am Friday morning on 24 April at a Northside location TBA.
The required escort service has been booked for departing 11.00am on the Friday and returning 3.00pm on the Monday.
Climbing routes
Check out thecrag.com for climbing route details. The Trip Leader will be able to supply guidebooks that can be photographed or copied prior to the trip.
Transport and participant numbers
Transport will be shared, and group vehicles must be 4WD or AWD. Participant numbers will be determined by the availability of suitable vehicles.
Enquiries
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of Trip Leader as part of the registration process.

Sport Climbing 101 – Gym to Crag
2026-05-07, 2026-05-16, 2026-05-28, 2026-05-30, 2026-06-06 | ACT
Learn the fundamentals and become a safe, competent and independent outdoor sport climber.
This CCA course will cater to those starting out climbing, gym climbers, and those looking to improve their skills and knowledge in sport climbing.
The primary focus of this course is on safety, proper technique, and enjoyment of the sport.
Participation (wait-list)
This event is for current (paid) CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the course (* see note about CCA membership below).
The course is a four-part series. As it is sequential, all sessions should be attended.
Please note that this course is now FULL. You can still register below and be placed on the wait-list for the next course.
Registration
Event registration is required and is available now:
Register for this event (wait-list only)
Payment details will be forwarded to you once your registration is accepted by the trip leader. Payment then confirms your place on the course.
(* Note about CCA membership: if you’re not a CCA member yet, please join CCA via our website. Your membership will be active as soon as you’ve completed the online signup and payment, and you can then register for this event straight away. It takes up to a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form and pay the membership fee)
Dates and venues

Thursday 7 May – evening (6.30pm – 8.30pm) at Mountain Strong bouldering & fitness gym, Fyshwick – introduction.
Saturday 16 May – Snake Rock, Namadgi National Park, ACT.
Thursday 28 May – evening (6.30pm – 8.30pm) at Mountain Strong bouldering & fitness gym, Fyshwick – skills workshop.
Saturday 30 May – Tianjara Falls, NSW.
Saturday 6 June – Thompson’s Point, Nowra, NSW.

Cost
$300 per person (concession $200, evidence required). Fee is to be paid when registering and is a contribution to the CCA insurance and CCA equipment.
Gym entry and transport to the course venues is not included; carpooling is recommended.
Essential equipment
Each participant must provide the following climbing gear in good, serviceable condition that is not more than 10 years old. Equipment will be inspected.

Climbing helmet
Climbing harness
2 screw-gate carabiners
Belay device – ATC or Grigi
60cm anchoring sling
Either a 60m dynamic climbing rope OR 12 quick draws OR both
Climbing shoes/boots
Medium/large backpack

Course content
Practical climbing sessions – practical climbing time on rock is maximised.
Safety and risk management – safety checks ABCDEF, communication, climbing etiquette, environmental awareness, accident prevention.
Climbing gear and equipment – understanding different types of climbing gear and their functions. How to properly use gear – especially Grigri type belay devices.
Basic knots – how to tie essential knots for climbing.
Rope management – proper handling and management of climbing ropes.
Climbing technique – basic and advanced.
Belaying techniques – proper belaying techniques, including both top-roping and lead belaying.
Communication – effective communication signals between climber and belayer.
Lead climbing – clipping techniques, fall management, minimising rope drag, use of clip sticks.
Cleaning anchors.
Falling and resting – how to safely fall while climbing, and techniques for managing falls.
Identifying resting positions on the wall to conserve energy.
Basic abseiling.
Climbing routes and grading – understanding how climbing routes are graded and how to assess and choose routes appropriate to one’s skill level.
Problem solving and complicated terrain.
Fitness and strength training for climbing.
Overview of sport climbing opportunities in Australia and internationally.
Next steps in climbing – guidance on how to further develop climbing skills, including more advanced courses and outdoor climbing opportunities.
Instruction
Instruction will be provided by qualified and experienced volunteer leaders from CCA.
Insurance
CCA insurance includes public liability, and Association office bearers and volunteer activity leader accident policies.
Course participants are expected to carry their own medical/accident cover and ambulance cover as they deem necessary.

Tianjara Falls Rockclimbing Meet
2026-05-09 | ACT
[photo Sam Dessen, from thecrag.com]
A fabulous variety of climbing styles (mostly sport climbing with a smattering of trad) at all the grades, from easy to extreme.
Climbers new to Tianjara will be able to become familiarised with the landscape, climbs and access routes.
Participation
CCA members who are competent, experienced and independent sport climbers are welcome to attend.
This event is for current CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the event (* see note about CCA membership below).
The Trip Leader for the meet will be Peter Blunt.
Cost
If car-pooling, you’ll be expected to contribute towards transport costs.
Registration
Event registration is required is available now:
Register for this event
The cutoff for registration is 5th May 2026. Be aware that numbers are always limited so early registration is recommended.
(* Note about CCA membership: you can only join CCA via our website, and it takes about a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form on-line and pay the membership fee)
Difficulty
Details will be available soon.
What to bring
Independent sport climbers are expected to bring their own climbing gear and equipment. All climbing gear MUST be in serviceable condition and ropes, harnesses, helmets and slings MUST be no more than 10 years old. All climbing equipment MUST be purpose-designed and certified for use for climbing. All equipment will be inspected prior to activities.
You will also need to bring your own food and drinking water for the day. Prepare for both cold and warm conditions. A detailed list will be forwarded to people who register.
Meeting time and location
Details will be available soon.
Climbing routes
Check out thecrag.com for climbing route details. The Trip Leader will be able to supply guidebooks that can be photographed or copied prior to the trip.
Transport and participant numbers
Transport will be shared. Participant numbers will be determined by the availability of suitable vehicles.
Enquiries
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of Trip Leader as part of the registration process.

CCA General Meeting / guest speaker: TBA
2026-05-20 19:30 - 21:30, 2026-09-16 19:30 - 21:30 | Ainslie Football & Social Club, 52 Wakefield Avenue, Ainslie, ACT, 2602, Australia
Come and hear a rundown of the CCA’s recent activities plus general climbing news and points of interest, followed by our guest speaker presentation.
CCA members and non-members are welcome.
Dinner is available from The Limestone Kitchen at the Ainslie Football Club, providing a great chance to relax and socialise with other CCA members before the meeting starts at 7.30pm. A table in the name of CCA is booked for 6pm.
Guest speaker: TBA
(presentation details TBA)

Frog Buttress Rockclimbing Meet
2026-07-11 - 2026-07-18 | ACT
[photo: Cait Horan]
A week of climbing the classic routes at the crack climbing mecca that is Frog Buttress, Queensland. And a warm rock escape from Canberra winter.
This is an opportunity for experienced and independent trad climbers to sample the delights and challenges of Frog Buttress. Climbers new to Frog Buttress will be able to become familiarised with the landscape, climbs and access routes.
You are welcome to join this week-long meet for a shorter period of time throughout the week.
Participation
CCA members who are competent, experienced and independent trad climbers are welcome to attend.
This event is for current (paid) CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the event (* see note about CCA membership below).
The Trip Leaders for the meet will be Peter Blunt and Cait Horan.
Cost
Camping and travel costs apply (see options below).
Registration
Event registration is required and is available now:
Register for this event
The cutoff for registration is Tuesday 7th July.
(* Note about CCA membership: if you’re not a CCA member yet, please join CCA via our website. Your membership will be active as soon as you’ve completed the online signup and payment, and you can then register for this event straight away. It takes up to a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form and pay the membership fee)
Difficulty
Frog Buttress offers a wide variety of climbing routes from moderate to extremely challenging. To make most use of the venue, climbers should be able to climb grade 14 comfortably. Access to the crag is easy, with camping nearby. Frog is a predominantly trad area with a few sport climbs.
What to bring
Independent trad climbers are expected to bring their own trad climbing gear and equipment. All climbing gear MUST be in serviceable condition and ropes, harnesses, helmets and slings MUST be no more than 10 years old. All climbing equipment MUST be purpose-designed and certified for use for climbing. All equipment will be inspected prior to activities.
You will also need to bring your own camping gear, food, and drinking water (can be sourced from nearby towns). Prepare for both cold and warm conditions. A detailed list will be forwarded to people who register.
Camping
Camping is in open eucalyptus forest with grassy understorey. Campsite surface is sawdust/crusher dust mix. Facilities include toilets and some picnic tables and gas barbecues. There is no power, and camp fires are not permitted.
A number of tent campsites have been booked. Once these have been allocated, people will need to book their own sites via the Queensland National Parks Booking Service: Frog Buttress camping area.
Alternative, vehicle-based, camping is available at Mount French and bookings are made via the Queensland National Parks Booking Service: Mount French vehicle-based camping area.
Registration and booking of sites ($7.50 per night per person) early is advised as sites get booked ahead of time. Sites hold 2 people.
Meeting time and location
Lunchtime Saturday 11 July at the picnic area at Frog Buttress.
Climbing routes
Check out thecrag.com for climbing route details at Frog Buttress, or obtain the Frog Buttress Climbing Guide authored by Matt Hutton.
Transport and participant numbers
Participants can elect to fly and then share costs for hire vehicles, or drive to the crag in shared or their own vehicles. The trip leader can assist with facilitating shared transport if requested.
Enquiries
You will have an opportunity to ask questions of Trip Leader as part of the registration process.

Frog Buttress (Photo: Cait Horan)

CCA General Meeting (AGM) / guest speaker TBA
2026-11-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Ainslie Football & Social Club, 52 Wakefield Avenue, Ainslie, ACT, 2602, Australia
This meeting will be our AGM, so we will include election of CCA office bearers for 2023/2024 and a rundown of the CCA’s recent activities plus general climbing news and points of interest. The meeting will be followed by our guest speaker presentation, as usual.
CCA members and non-members are welcome.
Dinner is available from The Limestone Kitchen at the Ainslie Football Club, providing a great chance to relax and socialise with other CCA members before the AGM starts at 7.30pm. A table in the name of CCA is booked for 6pm.
Guest speaker: TBA
