Get started

Orienteering is an adventure that all ages and fitness levels can enjoy. There are events all year round and beginners are always welcome. Every event offers courses appropriate for newcomers and club members will be on hand and pleased to assist you to get underway.

Read our FAQ to find out more

Where do I find out about the next event?

Event information is available at https://eventor.orienteering.asn.au/Events
Come to an event and register as a casual member  and you will receive Enews a weekly email with OWA News.

What do I need to wear?

For bush events, wear clothing and shoes for a bushwalk, eg runners, long pants to protect from bush, a hat.
For summer events, wear clothing and shoes for exercise, eg runners, shorts, a hat. Wear/bring clothing and sunscreen appropriate to the weather on the day

What should I bring?

A water bottle. Some people like to carry it on the course with them. There may be water points on longer courses. Friends and family. Courses can be complete as a team or as an individual, and orienteering can be suitable for all ages. Metro events are suitable for prams, in the bush some people use baby carriers. There is sometimes a string course for young children.

Do I need to bring a compass or any special equipment?

No special equipment is required. Compasses and e-tags can be hired at the event, and are available for purchase if desired. Very easy courses and Navdash events can be completed without a compass.

How much does it cost?

Various entry fees apply to Orienteering WA events depending on the type of event, your membership and age. Check the event fees page for more information.

Pre-entering is the preferred method of payment.  This is done by registering yourself and logging into Eventor.  You can register as a Casual member, you don't necessarily have to become a fully-paid OWA member.  If you're too late for that or it's just too hard, we have joined the 21st century and have a card machine.  However, please understand that, due to our often remote or out of mobile range locations, it will not always work, so if you can bring cash (particularly for bush events) that would be much appreciated

What time should I arrive and what do I do?

Information about event times are on https://eventor.orienteering.asn.au/Events.
Look for the caravan at bush events or a registration table for metro events. There will be marshalls in hi-vis vests ready to assist you with registration, help you get started and answer any questions.

What length are the courses?

Courses range in distance from 2 - 12km, and in navigational difficulty from very easy to hard. Very easy and easy courses are generally 2-3km.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are not permitted at bush events or NavDash, but are welcome at the summer metro events.

How I do get started and give orienteering a go?

Talk to people!  Come along to an event and a volunteer will be happy to talk you through any question and give you tips to complete the event on the day.  Check our Event Calendar to find the next event and give Orienteering a try! We hope to see you at an event soon.