This Summer, Vertical Life leans wholeheartedly into its Rock-themed edition—a celebration of Australia’s climbing history, its iconic stories, and the creative spirit that shaped generations of climbers. With Rock’s archives now part of the VL family, this issue blends the nostalgia of classic print with fresh features, bold photography, and storytelling that looks forward as much as it looks back.
We kick things off with a leap into the past through Glenn Robbins’ “How I Got the Shot,” revisiting his sea-cliff photography mission on the rugged UK coastline in 1989. Robbins’ behind-the-lens account reminds us why his imagery helped define an era—and why Rock magazine remains such an essential part of climbing’s visual heritage.
On the cover, the spotlight turns to the new wave. Oliver Schmidt, fresh off his impressive ascent of Lightweight Baby (34) at Mt Arapiles, reflects on the mindset required to climb at the edge of possibility. From onsighting Ozymandias to making the first trad ascent of Whistling Kite, Oliver shares how boldness, precision, and focus shape his quiet rise within the Australian climbing scene.
Oliver Schmidt on the 3rd ascent of Lightweight Baby (34) Mt Arapiles. Image by Claire Williams
From Australia’s city edges, James Stuart explores the hidden gems of Sydney’s Georges River—urban climbing tucked between suburbs and bushland, proving once again that adventure exists even in the most unexpected pockets of the city.
For those climbing-curious but unsure where to begin, Ash Brennan looks at the role university clubs play in shaping new climbers. Through past presidents and personal stories, he highlights how these clubs offer mentorship, access, skills, and a sense of belonging—often to students and non-students alike.
UNSWOC Trip at Point Perpendicular. Image: Mira Jordan
Creativity takes centre stage in Climbing Gear Reimagined, celebrating local artists who transform retired ropes, battered cams, and worn hardware into sculptures, jewellery, and functional art. It’s a fresh look at climbing’s material culture and the stories embedded in every piece of gear.
From deep in the Rock archives, we revive Greg Pritchard’s Top 50 Climbers, a snapshot from nearly 30 years ago capturing the personalities and pioneers shaping Australian climbing at the time. Lightly edited for length but true to its original tone, this article is a time capsule of a sport on the brink of rapid progression.
Adventure expands to the far north in James Hockey’s expedition to the Pantheon Range—a heli-access granite wonderland in Canada. What began as a spontaneous opportunity turned into a wild push through remote towers, crevasses, and shimmering glaciers, revealing the magic that lies beyond the beaten path.
Back on home soil, the story of the Arapiles Club House highlights what passion and community can create. Luke and Penny Weatherstone’s transformation of a roofless stone ruin into a thriving climber’s hub is part restoration project, part tribute to the enduring spirit of Arapiles life.
Left: James Hockey on the first ascent of Windborne Tower, British Columbia’s Pantheon Range Right: Arapiles Club House
With its blend of archival treasures, modern profiles, expedition stories, urban secrets, and creative features, this Rock-themed Summer Issue bridges climbing’s past and future—celebrating heritage while shining a light on the stories shaping today’s community.
