Hi Lorna,
I'm guessing Gail doesn't know there aren't too many high rise buildings out the back'o Bourke. Do as much step work as you can in the gym. A stair walker for hours would be the go. The whole trek is pretty much steep up or steep down. There's water everywhere – take a camel pack (2L plenty) plus a 1L for Staminade etc. We didn't use any sterilisers – the guides advice was fine. The whole time you will wet – from sweat or rain. Take 2 sets of clothes – 1 to walk in, 1 to sleep in. It's miserable putting on wet clothes but you soon get used to it. Fungal powder for the feet helps. Comfotable shoes are the key and in hindsight, a pair of the good old Dunlop Volleys would be as good as anything if this is going to be a one off trek. The guides have no problems with them. Don't get too bogged down in gear. In the end, you'll only be out for a few days. There's plenty of food provided, water everywhere and a village each night. Get fit, go happy and you'll have the experience of a lifetime. It's brutally hard at times, but the guides are great and you'll have a laugh. Just hit that stepper!!!!!!