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\\ Miss Ada Frost and Miss Dot English (Selling Department) | \\ Miss Ada Frost and Miss Dot English (Selling Department) | ||
\\ Mr Ian Malcolm (Advertising) | \\ Mr Ian Malcolm (Advertising) | ||
- | \\ | + | ===== CONTENTS PAGE ===== |
- | \\ ** CONTENTS PAGE ** | + | |
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|Editorial|2| | |Editorial|2| | ||
|Shameful Adventure, by Suzanne Reichard|3| | |Shameful Adventure, by Suzanne Reichard|3| | ||
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|Questions Answered, by our Bushwalking Expert," | |Questions Answered, by our Bushwalking Expert," | ||
|The Sirius Saga from the Dog Tales of Hoffman, by W. Mullins|17| | |The Sirius Saga from the Dog Tales of Hoffman, by W. Mullins|17| | ||
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- | ==== EDITORIAL ==== | + | ===== EDITORIAL |
The new King is considerate enough to have his birthday at nearly the same time of the year as his late father, that is to say, in the season most suitable for strenuous walking. This year excellent weather blessed the advent of the first King's Birthday on the changed date, and most Club members showed their appreciation. | The new King is considerate enough to have his birthday at nearly the same time of the year as his late father, that is to say, in the season most suitable for strenuous walking. This year excellent weather blessed the advent of the first King's Birthday on the changed date, and most Club members showed their appreciation. | ||
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- | \\ The official trip was to Blue Gum Forest, led by Dorothy Lawry armed with a huge sledge hammer and a crow bar, which were intended for the demolition of the hut erected by the unemployed workers down there, and generally considered as undesirable. It is rather interesting to note that huts are erected with much expense in New Zealand, and are pulled down with much labour in our less rainy land. Unfortunately - or otherwise, - some other enthusiasts had already done the main part of the work before the sledge hammer arrived. However, Dorman Long and his much ridiculed trenching tool were found very useful for uprooting the posts. Thirty four people housed in sixteen little tents celebrated the destruction of the hut. | + | The official trip was to Blue Gum Forest, led by Dorothy Lawry armed with a huge sledge hammer and a crow bar, which were intended for the demolition of the hut erected by the unemployed workers down there, and generally considered as undesirable. It is rather interesting to note that huts are erected with much expense in New Zealand, and are pulled down with much labour in our less rainy land. Unfortunately - or otherwise, - some other enthusiasts had already done the main part of the work before the sledge hammer arrived. However, Dorman Long and his much ridiculed trenching tool were found very useful for uprooting the posts. Thirty four people housed in sixteen little tents celebrated the destruction of the hut. |
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- | \\ Mount Solitary and the Korrowell | + | Mount Solitary and the Korrowall |
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- | \\ Barney and a party spent the weekend on Clear Hill without succumbing to the temptation of going down Duncan' | + | Barney and a party spent the weekend on Clear Hill without succumbing to the temptation of going down Duncan' |
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- | \\ Not so Paddy, who made up for his forced confinement in his shop over Easter, by making full use of every hour of the King's Birthday weekend. He and his party went from Wentworth Falls along King's Tableland and down to McMahon' | + | Not so Paddy, who made up for his forced confinement in his shop over Easter, by making full use of every hour of the King's Birthday weekend. He and his party went from Wentworth Falls along King's Tableland and down to McMahon' |
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- | \\ Ian Malcolm picked up various stragglers of the Rover Ramblers and also went from Wentworth Falls to the Cox and up Clear Hill; but they took the shorter route via Cedar Creek. Ian had the pleasure of climbing twice up the Goat Track in the middle of the night in search of various Rovers who did not arrive. | + | Ian Malcolm picked up various stragglers of the Rover Ramblers and also went from Wentworth Falls to the Cox and up Clear Hill; but they took the shorter route via Cedar Creek. Ian had the pleasure of climbing twice up the Goat Track in the middle of the night in search of various Rovers who did not arrive. |
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- | \\ O' | + | O' |
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- | \\ Ernie and Jean Austin went over the lovely country at the back of Kiama with its green fields and sparkling streams. They camped on Saddleback the first night and at the junction of Brogher' | + | Ernie and Jean Austin went over the lovely country at the back of Kiama with its green fields and sparkling streams. They camped on Saddleback the first night and at the junction of Brogher' |
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- | \\ Suzanne Reichart, Dot English, Grace Edgecombe and Marie Byles again went off with the Highbrow Hikers and the Katoomba Suicide Club, intending to rock climb in the Upper Grose. They certainly lugged out plenty of rope, and found a lovely cave to camp in; but the rocks were either non-existent or vertical, and the rope was carried back unused. | + | Suzanne Reichart, Dot English, Grace Edgecombe and Marie Byles again went off with the Highbrow Hikers and the Katoomba Suicide Club, intending to rock climb in the Upper Grose. They certainly lugged out plenty of rope, and found a lovely cave to camp in; but the rocks were either non-existent or vertical, and the rope was carried back unused. |
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- | \\ Mittagong is not as popular as the Blue Mountains Plateau; but Jack Debert led a party of nine out to Mount Jellore and found it deserved greater popularity so perhaps others will follow later. | + | Mittagong is not as popular as the Blue Mountains Plateau; but Jack Debert led a party of nine out to Mount Jellore and found it deserved greater popularity so perhaps others will follow later. |
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- | \\ Apart from the holiday weekend trips, we must record how Richard Croker and Frank Keelty spent a fortnight at Barrington and Dorrigo, camping on one memorable night within twenty eight yards of twenty eight pigs! | + | Apart from the holiday weekend trips, we must record how Richard Croker and Frank Keelty spent a fortnight at Barrington and Dorrigo, camping on one memorable night within twenty eight yards of twenty eight pigs! |
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- | \\ Peter Page and Ray Birt also spent their fortnight' | + | Peter Page and Ray Birt also spent their fortnight' |
- | \\ | + | ===== CLUB GOSSIP |
- | \\ | + | You will be pleased to know that Cupid has again been shooting his arrows in the Club, the victims this time being Iris Rockstro (Roxy) and Arnold Barrett. |
- | \\ ** CLUB GOSSIP | + | |
- | \\ | + | The Stork has also been busy, and passing by Moroney' |
- | \\ You will be pleased to know that Cupid has again been shooting his arrows in the Club, the victims this time being Iris Rockstro (Roxy) and Arnold Barrett. | + | |
- | \\ | + | The Roots have uprooted once more, and their new aboreal abode at 3 Logan Avenue, Haberfield, is to be open for public inspection tomorrow, the 11th July. |
- | \\ The Stork has also been busy, and passing by Moroney' | + | |
- | \\ | + | Richard Croker has presented " |
- | \\ The Roots have uprooted once more, and their new aboreal abode at 3 Logan Avenue, Haberfield, is to be open for public inspection tomorrow, the 11th July. | + | |
- | \\ | + | Frances Ramsay, who is off to Scotland on a twelve months exchange and Vera Phillips who is going with her, should find the last named book most useful, but, as they are sailing in a fortnight, they probably will not have time to read it. |
- | \\ Richard Croker has presented " | + | |
- | \\ | + | Flo Allsworth is another traveller, but her work has taken her only as far as Hobart for three months. |
- | \\ Frances Ramsay, who is off to Scotland on a twelve months exchange and Vera Phillips who is going with her, should find the last named book most useful, but, as they are sailing in a fortnight, they probably will not have time to read it. | + | |
- | \\ | + | Once again we remind you that Barney it itching to receive your subscriptions and that Bernard, who-used-to-be-Edgar, |
- | \\ Flo Allsworth is another traveller, but her work has taken her only as far as Hobart for three months. | + | |
- | \\ | + | ===== SHAMEFUL ADVENTURE |
- | \\ Once again we remind you that Barney it itching to receive your subscriptions and that Bernard, who-used-to-be-Edgar, | + | |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ | + | |
- | ==== SHAMEFUL ADVENTURE ==== | + | |
Suzanne Reichard | Suzanne Reichard | ||
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- | \\ Not having " | + | Not having " |
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- | \\ Accordingly, | + | Accordingly, |
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- | \\ We had no difficulty in finding the Trig station which indicates the turnoff to Smith' | + | We had no difficulty in finding the Trig station which indicates the turnoff to Smith' |
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- | \\ We found Smith' | + | We found Smith' |
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- | \\ Farther on we struck a track leading through a dry reeds covered swamp. This we followed for some distance, along the banks of the creek - which had now widened and become semi-tidal - until we came to an arm which branched westwards. At this point the sand flies began to chew us alive, so we beat a hasty retreat up the branch creek. There we found some delicious water, and decided to make a halt for lunch. Dot's lunch, consisting of two date sandwiches, was eaten while my man-size steak was still grilling on the fire (what a waste of a fire, had we but known). After I had thoroughly " | + | Farther on we struck a track leading through a dry reeds covered swamp. This we followed for some distance, along the banks of the creek - which had now widened and become semi-tidal - until we came to an arm which branched westwards. At this point the sand flies began to chew us alive, so we beat a hasty retreat up the branch creek. There we found some delicious water, and decided to make a halt for lunch. Dot's lunch, consisting of two date sandwiches, was eaten while my man-size steak was still grilling on the fire (what a waste of a fire, had we but known). After I had thoroughly " |
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- | \\ Having studied the map, I suggested that the most interesting and most direct route for home would be to strike out along the ridges for the large pool at the junction of Pepadray and Cowan Creeks, and thence along the Cowan Road. Dot, poor trusting soul, agreed that that would be a good idea. We, therefore, followed the road for some distance until we deemed the moment had come to strike out along the ridges. Again a Trig station was supposed to mark the point at which we should descend; which we duly did. After half an hour's rough scrambling, we found ourselves on Pepadray Creek. It was impossible to tell how far up we were, but I imagined the big pool must be "just round the corner." | + | Having studied the map, I suggested that the most interesting and most direct route for home would be to strike out along the ridges for the large pool at the junction of Pepadray and Cowan Creeks, and thence along the Cowan Road. Dot, poor trusting soul, agreed that that would be a good idea. We, therefore, followed the road for some distance until we deemed the moment had come to strike out along the ridges. Again a Trig station was supposed to mark the point at which we should descend; which we duly did. After half an hour's rough scrambling, we found ourselves on Pepadray Creek. It was impossible to tell how far up we were, but I imagined the big pool must be "just round the corner." |
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- | \\ After half an hour's extremely rough going - Dot was able to climb down the face, of the rocks; but I perforce had to scramble up the banks and fight my way through the almost impenetrable scrub on the hillside - the big pool seemed to be as far away as ever. This drove us to study the map again, and the horrible conclusion was forced upon us that we had come down the wrong ridge and were a good two miles up Pepadray Creek, with only half an hour left before sunset. | + | After half an hour's extremely rough going - Dot was able to climb down the face, of the rocks; but I perforce had to scramble up the banks and fight my way through the almost impenetrable scrub on the hillside - the big pool seemed to be as far away as ever. This drove us to study the map again, and the horrible conclusion was forced upon us that we had come down the wrong ridge and were a good two miles up Pepadray Creek, with only half an hour left before sunset. |
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- | \\ The only thing to do was to leave the creek and get up the farther hillside while there was still light. The sun was setting as we reached the top, and there before us, to my utter dismay, lay still another tremendous gully. On the far horizon twinkled two or three lights, indicating the main French' | + | The only thing to do was to leave the creek and get up the farther hillside while there was still light. The sun was setting as we reached the top, and there before us, to my utter dismay, lay still another tremendous gully. On the far horizon twinkled two or three lights, indicating the main French' |
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- | \\ Although it was already dark, there seemed nothing to do but attempt to descend the gully. | + | My " |
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- | \\ My " | + | However, after half an hour's walking, the gully still showed no signs of closing in. Dot again wanted to attempt to cross it; but I was "done in." There seemed no alternative but to spend the night in the open, we forthwith dumped our possessions on the first comparatively flat spot, and set about hauling in all the available logs. We soon piled up an imposing looking stack of wood and filled with pleasant anticipations of warmth, I put my hand in my rucksack pocket for the matches. |
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- | \\ However, after half an hour's walking, the gully still showed no signs of closing in. Dot again wanted to attempt to cross it; but I was "done in." There seemed no alternative but to spend the night in the open, we forthwith dumped our possessions on the first comparatively flat spot, and set about hauling in all the available logs. We soon piled up an imposing looking stack of wood and filled with pleasant anticipations of warmth, I put my hand in my rucksack pocket for the matches. | + | "No matches here......funny......well, |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ "No matches here......funny......well, | + | "Where the Devil did I put the damn matches?" |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ "Where the Devil did I put the damn matches?" | + | Things were beginning to look serious. Perhaps I threw them into the pack, by mistake, at lunch time. Followed a frantic delving into the pack. Finally, the thing was tipped upside down and all its contents strewn upon the ground. |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ Things were beginning to look serious. Perhaps I threw them into the pack, by mistake, at lunch time. Followed a frantic delving into the pack. Finally, the thing was tipped upside down and all its contents strewn upon the ground. | + | No matches! |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ No matches! | + | Well, that was the last straw. "Damn and blast," |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ Well, that was the last straw. "Damn and blast," | + | As soon as we had sufficiently recovered from the shock, we decided that a little nourishment would be the best means of restoring our equilibrium. I was able to produce the following: one banana, one piece of cake, a few raisins and two pieces of bread and butter. These we duly shared, with the exception of the bread and butter which was to be saved for the morning. Water, of course, we had none. |
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- | \\ As soon as we had sufficiently recovered from the shock, we decided that a little nourishment would be the best means of restoring our equilibrium. I was able to produce the following: one banana, one piece of cake, a few raisins and two pieces of bread and butter. These we duly shared, with the exception of the bread and butter which was to be saved for the morning. Water, of course, we had none. | + | We then spread the ground sheet crosswise on the ground so that it would cover us both. The superior virtue of pack carrying was further demonstrated by my being able to produce, in addition to the above: one pullover, one woollen bathing costume, one towel, one bread bag, one bathing cap. I put on the pullover and drew the bathing costume over my legs, while Dot pulled her skirt up round her body, wrapped her legs in the towel and placed her feet in the bread-bag inside the bathing cap! We then snuggled down together, and the cold light of the moon shone unsympathetically upon us. |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ We then spread the ground sheet crosswise on the ground so that it would cover us both. The superior virtue of pack carrying was further demonstrated by my being able to produce, in addition to the above: one pullover, one woollen bathing costume, one towel, one bread bag, one bathing cap. I put on the pullover and drew the bathing costume over my legs, while Dot pulled her skirt up round her body, wrapped her legs in the towel and placed her feet in the bread-bag inside the bathing cap! We then snuggled down together, and the cold light of the moon shone unsympathetically upon us. | + | We changed the watch about every hour during the night, or whenever the ground became unbearably hard. This meant that we sat up and rubbed one another' |
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- | \\ We changed the watch about every hour during the night, or whenever the ground became unbearably hard. This meant that we sat up and rubbed one another' | + | This went on throughout the night. She was further encouraged by a solitary cock craw; but we discovered that cocks craw at midnight! There was a very heavy dew and it began to come through the ground sheet rather badly - another unpleasant discovery. However, in spite of all this, we both achieved an odd doze or two. |
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- | \\ This went on throughout the night. She was further encouraged by a solitary cock craw; but we discovered that cocks craw at midnight! There was a very heavy dew and it began to come through the ground sheet rather badly - another unpleasant discovery. However, in spite of all this, we both achieved an odd doze or two. | + | The first pallid light of dawn saw us sitting up, thankful for the excuse to move. A piece of bread and butter each gave us courage for the start. In a quarter of an hour we had reached the bottom of the gully, and in barely an hour were on the road; but I am sure it would have taken us fully three hours in the dark. It was a brilliantly sunny morning, and as soon as we had warmed up a little through the exercise, we were thoroughly enjoying ourselves and prepared to regard the whole adventure as a joke. |
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- | \\ The first pallid light of dawn saw us sitting up, thankful for the excuse to move. A piece of bread and butter each gave us courage for the start. In a quarter of an hour we had reached the bottom of the gully, and in barely an hour were on the road; but I am sure it would have taken us fully three hours in the dark. It was a brilliantly sunny morning, and as soon as we had warmed up a little through the exercise, we were thoroughly enjoying ourselves and prepared to regard the whole adventure as a joke. | + | We had just passed St. Ives' Village, when the family limousine loomed in sight. Dot and I were so pleased at the immediate prospect of breakfast, that we came alongside, all beaming smiles. |
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- | \\ We had just passed St. Ives' Village, when the family limousine loomed in sight. Dot and I were so pleased at the immediate prospect of breakfast, that we came alongside, all beaming smiles. | + | " |
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- | \\ " | + | Somewhat abashed, Dot and I climbed in; but Dot, the irrepressible, |
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- | \\ Somewhat abashed, Dot and I climbed in; but Dot, the irrepressible, | + | When we reached home, Dot, with admirable adaptability to the situation, proceeded to inform another member of the family that we had been very nice and warm all night. |
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- | \\ When we reached home, Dot, with admirable adaptability to the situation, proceeded to inform another member of the family that we had been very nice and warm all night. | + | No mention of the disgraceful episode of the matches was ever made. |
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- | \\ No mention of the disgraceful episode of the matches was ever made. | + | However, the atmosphere was highly disapproving, |
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- | \\ However, the atmosphere was highly disapproving, | + | Still, it is an ill wind that blows no one any good. Although the experience did not convert Dot to pack carrying, it has made her vow never to be without her own box of matches! |
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- | \\ Still, it is an ill wind that blows no one any good. Although the experience did not convert Dot to pack carrying, it has made her vow never to be without her own box of matches! | + | \\ ---------- |
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- | \\ ---------- | + | |
\\ Up, lad, up, 'tis late for lying; | \\ Up, lad, up, 'tis late for lying; | ||
\\ Hear the drums of morning play; | \\ Hear the drums of morning play; | ||
\\ Hark; the empty by-ways crying | \\ Hark; the empty by-ways crying | ||
\\ " | \\ " | ||
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\\ A.E. Houseman. | \\ A.E. Houseman. | ||
\\ | \\ | ||
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- | ==== " | + | ===== " |
Gordon Smith | Gordon Smith | ||
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- | \\ The canoe trip should have commenced at Penrith on Christmas Eve; but as at that time the canoe was miles away, I had better start from the beginning, when Hama Galliott, " | + | The canoe trip should have commenced at Penrith on Christmas Eve; but as at that time the canoe was miles away, I had better start from the beginning, when Hama Galliott, " |
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- | \\ There was not much information available about this part of the Nepean, but no news is good news - sometimes. After a quarter of a mile the weir appeared, and by lunch time, after five portages, our appetite for weirs was more than satiated. In between times the canoe was dragged through sand, assisted over snags and occasionally paddled, and by dusk, nine miles had been covered. | + | There was not much information available about this part of the Nepean, but no news is good news - sometimes. After a quarter of a mile the weir appeared, and by lunch time, after five portages, our appetite for weirs was more than satiated. In between times the canoe was dragged through sand, assisted over snags and occasionally paddled, and by dusk, nine miles had been covered. |
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- | \\ After a 7 am departure, progress improved and about 9 am, I was able to use the oars and visualise a spot of lunch about Wallacia. A beautiful stretch of water, where the banks were heavily wooded, ended abruptly at the entrance to a narrow defile. What shall I say about the next six or seven hours when at the expense of some gruelling hard work, and heavy falls on green, slippery rocks, an advance of 3/4 mile was made. " | + | After a 7 am departure, progress improved and about 9 am, I was able to use the oars and visualise a spot of lunch about Wallacia. A beautiful stretch of water, where the banks were heavily wooded, ended abruptly at the entrance to a narrow defile. What shall I say about the next six or seven hours when at the expense of some gruelling hard work, and heavy falls on green, slippery rocks, an advance of 3/4 mile was made. " |
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- | \\ At 5 pm we "threw in the sponge," | + | At 5 pm we "threw in the sponge," |
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- | \\ Next night, Christmas Eve, saw the same party, plus Ada Frost, on Central waiting the 8.40 pm train to Penrith. No! I am wrong for Mr Hardy arrived at 8.45 full of joie de vivre, and reeled off a sad and recurrent story of missed taxis and convival | + | Next night, Christmas Eve, saw the same party, plus Ada Frost, on Central waiting the 8.40 pm train to Penrith. No! I am wrong for Mr Hardy arrived at 8.45 full of joie de vivre, and reeled off a sad and recurrent story of missed taxis and convivial |
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- | \\ The service car from Penrith dropped us at Wallacia about 12.30 am, and accompanied by one stray dog, we staggered a mile or two before camping. | + | The service car from Penrith dropped us at Wallacia about 12.30 am, and accompanied by one stray dog, we staggered a mile or two before camping. |
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- | \\ Christmas Day was hot and a combined load of 180 lbs of food and gear made our journey to Bent's Basin a nightmare. The canoe had been left some 3/4 mile above this spot. The Basin, almost circular, with a diameter of about 150 yards, and fringed with rocks, grass and river oaks provided an ideal camp site, and a swim in its limpid waters soon removed the tired feeling. Soon after tea, " | + | Christmas Day was hot and a combined load of 180 lbs of food and gear made our journey to Bent's Basin a nightmare. The canoe had been left some 3/4 mile above this spot. The Basin, almost circular, with a diameter of about 150 yards, and fringed with rocks, grass and river oaks provided an ideal camp site, and a swim in its limpid waters soon removed the tired feeling. Soon after tea, " |
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- | \\ With the exception of a couple of hours' portage of the canoe to the Basin, Boxing Day was spent in a leisurely fashion. A sharp shower of rain drove us into the tent at night. | + | With the exception of a couple of hours' portage of the canoe to the Basin, Boxing Day was spent in a leisurely fashion. A sharp shower of rain drove us into the tent at night. |
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- | \\ At 11 am on Friday, the two girls caught the launch to Wallacia (7 miles) and we followed by canoe, in time for lunch. Two trips were made to the weir, and after unloading, commenced the mile portage to Norton' | + | At 11 am on Friday, the two girls caught the launch to Wallacia (7 miles) and we followed by canoe, in time for lunch. Two trips were made to the weir, and after unloading, commenced the mile portage to Norton' |
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- | \\ In the afternoon Joan, Hilma, Jock and I went to Wallacia for supplies, while Ada and " | + | In the afternoon Joan, Hilma, Jock and I went to Wallacia for supplies, while Ada and " |
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- | \\ In the morning I rose early and took one of our party four miles upstream by canoe, paddling back in time to see the others pack and depart en masse. Gladys Parsons and Hec Carruthers who were only out for the weekend gazed mournfully at us from the bank. | + | In the morning I rose early and took one of our party four miles upstream by canoe, paddling back in time to see the others pack and depart en masse. Gladys Parsons and Hec Carruthers who were only out for the weekend gazed mournfully at us from the bank. |
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- | \\ Steady rain fell for an hour or so; but at lunch time, the skies were clear again. The river had narrowed and the canoes made tortuous progress between huge boulders towering on either side. The first few rapids presented little difficulty. To drag the canoes through the fast but shallow water was comparatively easy; but early in the afternoon the volume of water increased, and as a result of carelessness on my part, a wave swept over the side and swamped my canoe, some of the contents suffered but not seriously. | + | Steady rain fell for an hour or so; but at lunch time, the skies were clear again. The river had narrowed and the canoes made tortuous progress between huge boulders towering on either side. The first few rapids presented little difficulty. To drag the canoes through the fast but shallow water was comparatively easy; but early in the afternoon the volume of water increased, and as a result of carelessness on my part, a wave swept over the side and swamped my canoe, some of the contents suffered but not seriously. |
- | \\ About this time the company had an encounter with two youths, travelling downstream in a canvas canoe; who gave us a vivid, if exaggerated description of the terrors ahead. Owing to the reported dearth of camp sites above Monkey Creek, it was decided to camp there on our arrival although only 3.15 pm. An early start on the morrow was planned, and Joan certainly arose at some ungodly hour to disturb the peace. That she even had " | + | |
- | \\ | + | About this time the company had an encounter with two youths, travelling downstream in a canvas canoe; who gave us a vivid, if exaggerated description of the terrors ahead. Owing to the reported dearth of camp sites above Monkey Creek, it was decided to camp there on our arrival although only 3.15 pm. An early start on the morrow was planned, and Joan certainly arose at some ungodly hour to disturb the peace. That she even had " |
- | \\ By 7 am the canoes were in motion and the day proved to be a hard one. Our canoe was overstocked, | + | |
- | \\ | + | By 7 am the canoes were in motion and the day proved to be a hard one. Our canoe was overstocked, |
- | \\ Next morning the huge boulders had disappeared; | + | |
- | form; but fortunately, | + | Next morning the huge boulders had disappeared; |
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- | \\ Next day we indulged in swimming and a little unsuccessful shooting. This was the parting of the ways. On the morrow two canoes were returning dawn the Warragamba, and Ada, Hilma, " | + | Next day we indulged in swimming and a little unsuccessful shooting. This was the parting of the ways. On the morrow two canoes were returning dawn the Warragamba, and Ada, Hilma, " |
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- | \\ This palatial machine was a four speed Fiat of 1914 vintage stripped of body, bonnet, lamps, horn, battery, hood, seats and number plates, and fitted with a buckboard and box for a seat. With a crank handle broken in the crank shaft, the only way to start was to push off downhill. Once when the motor stalled in a river crossing, Mostyn had to jack up the back wheel, put her in gear, and swing the wheel to start again. The radiator was rather badly bent as a result of a dive over an embankment, but for all its quaint appearance, the motor purred as sweetly as the day it was born. Mostyn drove mainly with one big toe, and a rather wild drive followed. | + | This palatial machine was a four speed Fiat of 1914 vintage stripped of body, bonnet, lamps, horn, battery, hood, seats and number plates, and fitted with a buckboard and box for a seat. With a crank handle broken in the crank shaft, the only way to start was to push off downhill. Once when the motor stalled in a river crossing, Mostyn had to jack up the back wheel, put her in gear, and swing the wheel to start again. The radiator was rather badly bent as a result of a dive over an embankment, but for all its quaint appearance, the motor purred as sweetly as the day it was born. Mostyn drove mainly with one big toe, and a rather wild drive followed. |
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- | \\ Joan, Jock, Bill and Vic had came "just for the ride", and after three miles they alighted and bade us "au revoir" | + | Joan, Jock, Bill and Vic had come "just for the ride", and after three miles they alighted and bade us "au revoir" |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ At 11 am, we commenced a somewhat perilous ride from McMahon' | + | At 11 am, we commenced a somewhat perilous ride from McMahon' |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ Mostyn left us to return to his lorry, and we walked upstream. The weather was hot and humid, and all were glad to reach Hughes' | + | Mostyn left us to return to his lorry, and we walked upstream. The weather was hot and humid, and all were glad to reach Hughes' |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ The ascent of Hughes' | + | The ascent of Hughes' |
- | \\ | + | |
- | \\ After an early stroll around the plateau, taking photos and viewing the gorge, we proceeded to follow the precipitous Murdering Gully to Kanangra Creek. Quite early in the day I dislodged a large stone about five hundredweight, | + | After an early stroll around the plateau, taking photos and viewing the gorge, we proceeded to follow the precipitous Murdering Gully to Kanangra Creek. Quite early in the day I dislodged a large stone about five hundredweight, |
- | hazardous ridge between two gullies. A little downstream a showy waterfall gushed into a crystal pool and provided a sufficient excuse for lunch. | + | |
- | The rocks were slippery, and shortly after resuming Hilma fell very hard. Soon after, I attempted the high jump record, when a snake swam under my boc,t. After an hourts | + | The rocks were slippery, and shortly after resuming Hilma fell very hard. Soon after, I attempted the high jump record, when a snake swam under my body. After an hour’s |
- | At 5 p.m. the tent was erected about ten miles from the Coxts River, just as light rain began to fall. Tea was finished before dark and it was decided to have a good sleep, for once, so we settled down, and then came the rain. My tent holds four with a squeeze, and the two heroes on the wings were pressed against the sides which shortly became very wet. After a couple of hours' steady rain, " | + | |
+ | At 5 p.m. the tent was erected about ten miles from the Cox’s | ||
The dawn came - none too soon - and after a snappy breakfast of bread and jam, we packed and departed. The dripping casuarinas hung their heads while the vegetation oozed water, and never have I seen Kanangra Creek so mournful. About 1 p.m. Kanangra Clearing was sighted, and a little lean-to, repaired by the engineering skill of " | The dawn came - none too soon - and after a snappy breakfast of bread and jam, we packed and departed. The dripping casuarinas hung their heads while the vegetation oozed water, and never have I seen Kanangra Creek so mournful. About 1 p.m. Kanangra Clearing was sighted, and a little lean-to, repaired by the engineering skill of " | ||
- | The next day, under gloomy skies, we had lunch just below the Kowmung and camped opposite Kedumba Creek. A late start and a somewhat limited menu made us all glad to reach Mostynls | + | |
- | Reprovisioning postponed departure until 11 a.m. next morning; and purchases en route further delayed us, but a late lunch was eaten on arrival at the canoe. " | + | The next day, under gloomy skies, we had lunch just below the Kowmung and camped opposite Kedumba Creek. A late start and a somewhat limited menu made us all glad to reach Mostyn’s |
- | The Werragamba | + | |
- | -10 - | + | Reprovisioning postponed departure until 11 a.m. next morning; and purchases en route further delayed us, but a late lunch was eaten on arrival at the canoe. " |
- | magnificent heights which surround the river an all sides. As we commenced our camp chores, the setting sun was withdrawing its colour from the lower | + | |
- | slopes, until finally, only the summits were bathed in its crimson radiance. | + | The Warragamba |
- | Then here, too, the sunshine faded, leaving the peaks a soft purple, contrasting vividly against the blue sky. Gradually this colour merged into a sombre grey,and darkness cast its mantle over the Warragamba. | + | |
- | In the morning the weather was oppressive. Two travelled in the canoe | + | Then here, too, the sunshine faded, leaving the peaks a soft purple, contrasting vividly against the blue sky. Gradually this colour merged into a sombre grey, and darkness cast its mantle over the Warragamba. |
- | while two walked; and as progress along the banks became exceedingly difficult, | + | |
- | the canoe sometimes returned for a double trip. The river was now flawing | + | In the morning the weather was oppressive. Two travelled in the canoe while two walked; and as progress along the banks became exceedingly difficult, the canoe sometimes returned for a double trip. The river was now flowing |
- | north-east through a gorge which was to continue for 18 miles until its junction with the Nepean. | + | |
- | Ada slid I had a rather lucky escape from treading on a black snake, which | + | Ada slid I had a rather lucky escape from treading on a black snake, which was only a foot away, poised and ready to strike - the only black snake I have seen that offered fight. Five minutes later I was a little slow for a second one, and only succeeded in cutting off his tail, but within the half hour we met a third gentleman having a glorious sunbath, and he died the death. |
- | was only a foot away, poised and ready to strike - the only black snake I have seen that offered fight. Five minutes later I was a little slow for a second one, and only succeeded in cutting off his tail, but within the half hour we met a third gentleman having a glorious sunbath, and he died the death. | + | |
- | in. | + | in. " |
- | " | + | |
- | have an early lunch. Just before dusk we were still in the gorge with camp sites practically non-existent. " | + | Monkey Creek was found to be about 300 yards away. Each portage took us nearer to the open water; but at 11:35 a.m. came disaster. On a second trip, with half the gear, Hilma, " |
- | than risk shipwreck in the dark, so we camped and even erected the tent. Three | + | |
- | fish caught by " | + | A sandy ridge disturbed my slumbers, and once I was nicely settled someone woke me, to point out that a centipede was crawling over our pillows, which seemed a poor excuse until I saw the centipede - nine inches long, with legs inch long. The second time I awoke without assistance. What " |
- | Monkey Creek was found to be about 300 yards away. Each portage took us | + | |
- | nearer to the open water; but at 11:35 a.m. came disaster. On a second trip, | + | |
- | with half the gear, Hilma, " | + | |
- | of the perishable food was wet and Ada's face was a study as she surveyed her | + | |
- | drenched clothing. After lunch the canoe was once more repaired. All things | + | |
- | come to an end - even rapids; but as I started off with the girls, down came | + | |
- | the rain, and I leaving them at the cave at the mouth of the Warragamba, | + | |
- | returned for " | + | |
- | A sandy ridge disturbed my slumbers, and once I was nicely settled someone woke me, to point out that a centipede was crawling over our pillows, which seemed | + | |
- | a poor excuse until I saw the centipede - nine inches long, with legs inch long. The second time I awoke without assistance. What " | + | |
- | over the blackcurrant jam and plastered it over his pillow was a revelation to me. Dull skies awaited us on the morrow, Erskine Creek was the scene of our | + | |
- | mid-day meal, and " | + | |
- | can shelter 50 people and after some rather restricted quarters, we were apt to lose ourselves in the dark. More heavy rain fell during the night. | + | |
Sunday gave promise of being fine; but the heat produced a thunderstorm, | Sunday gave promise of being fine; but the heat produced a thunderstorm, | ||
+ | |||
Hec and Gladys were camped there, and they accompanied us on our final stage to Penrith, with the rain following us relentlessly to the end. | Hec and Gladys were camped there, and they accompanied us on our final stage to Penrith, with the rain following us relentlessly to the end. | ||
- | CHOOSING WIVES | + | |
- | AND TENTS | + | =====CHOOSING WIVES AND TENTS===== |
In seeking a wife (or a tent) we may as well face the fact at the onset that the perfect wife (or tent) doesn' | In seeking a wife (or a tent) we may as well face the fact at the onset that the perfect wife (or tent) doesn' | ||
+ | |||
The loveliest girls are not always the best cooks, and the girl who darns socks to perfection is not inevitably a vision of loveliness; and suppose you find a beautiful girl who can turn tough steak to tenderest chicken, and repair the sorriest sock, as likely as not you'll find she can't walk. | The loveliest girls are not always the best cooks, and the girl who darns socks to perfection is not inevitably a vision of loveliness; and suppose you find a beautiful girl who can turn tough steak to tenderest chicken, and repair the sorriest sock, as likely as not you'll find she can't walk. | ||
+ | |||
But far be it from Paddy to presume to give advice in choosing wives when it comes to tents, however, he can perhaps assist. | But far be it from Paddy to presume to give advice in choosing wives when it comes to tents, however, he can perhaps assist. | ||
- | Tents like sheep and wives have their points, and the roomiest tent is generally the heaviest; | + | |
+ | Tents like sheep and wives have their points, and the roomiest tent is generally the heaviest; | ||
Paddy has therefore evolved a scheme that will help such people to try out different types without cost - if you are considering buying a tent and are in doubt as to the most suitable type, hire one from Paddy for a weekend (this costs about 3/-). If you don't like that type, try another next time you go camping; when you have finally decided on the tent you want Paddy will deduct from the price of the tent, the cost of hiring the " | Paddy has therefore evolved a scheme that will help such people to try out different types without cost - if you are considering buying a tent and are in doubt as to the most suitable type, hire one from Paddy for a weekend (this costs about 3/-). If you don't like that type, try another next time you go camping; when you have finally decided on the tent you want Paddy will deduct from the price of the tent, the cost of hiring the " | ||
- | Talking about food (which we werlmIt)have you tried the New Tomato Powder - it is the goods.-one ounce (price 6d.) makes 1 pint of strong tomato soup, add salt and pepper to taste. Good things for camp are Wheat Lunch Biscuits - lb. packet contains 15 biscuits which are crisp and appetising, and remain so for days after opening; | + | |
- | DON'T FORGET PADDY HAS MOVED. | + | Talking about food (which we weren’t) have you tried the New Tomato Powder - it is the goods.-one ounce (price 6d.) makes 1 pint of strong tomato soup, add salt and pepper to taste. Good things for camp are Wheat Lunch Biscuits - lb. packet contains 15 biscuits which are crisp and appetising, and remain so for days after opening; |
+ | |||
+ | =====DON'T FORGET PADDY HAS MOVED.===== | ||
NEW ADDRESS: | NEW ADDRESS: | ||
F.A. PALLIN, | F.A. PALLIN, | ||
phone B .3101 . 327 George St., SYDNEY. | phone B .3101 . 327 George St., SYDNEY. | ||
Opp. Paling' | Opp. Paling' | ||
- | - 12 - | + | |
- | JEVY'S MYSTERY HIKE | + | =====JIMMY'S MYSTERY HIKE===== |
After strolling from Ginkin down the Upper Kowmung, up Morong Falls, over Kanangra, Craft Walls, Gangerang; down Moorilla Creek, via Cox, Black Dog Track and Clear Hill to Katoomba in five days, Jim Muir, Harry Savage and I bid goodbye to the rest of the party on the 2:45 p.m. from Katoomba last Boxing Day, and made our way to Mrs. Savage' | After strolling from Ginkin down the Upper Kowmung, up Morong Falls, over Kanangra, Craft Walls, Gangerang; down Moorilla Creek, via Cox, Black Dog Track and Clear Hill to Katoomba in five days, Jim Muir, Harry Savage and I bid goodbye to the rest of the party on the 2:45 p.m. from Katoomba last Boxing Day, and made our way to Mrs. Savage' | ||
- | About six months previously, Jim Muir had asked us to do a trip with him in his Hillman Minx, dawn Kosciusco | + | About six months previously, Jim Muir had asked us to do a trip with him in his Hillman Minx, dawn [Ed. Kosciuszko ] Kosciusko |
- | Next day we collected | + | |
- | As the back wheel had been rumbling a good bit the night before, Jim decided to take the car to the garage and find out what it was. While we waited for the verdict, we walked along the Murrumbidgee, | + | Next day we collected |
- | After lunch the car was still having its innards attended to, so Jim became over-exclusive and stowed himself away in the shade of a tree and went to sleep. About 2:45 p.m. Harry, | + | |
+ | As the back wheel had been rumbling a good bit the night before, Jim decided to take the car to the garage and find out what it was. While we waited for the verdict, we walked along the Murrumbidgee, | ||
+ | |||
+ | After lunch the car was still having its innards attended to, so Jim became over-exclusive and stowed himself away in the shade of a tree and went to sleep. About 2:45 p.m. Harry, | ||
Our next port of call was Holbrook, where Harry was going to have a long beer, because he and I had been singing all the way from Wagga and we were getting pretty dry. | Our next port of call was Holbrook, where Harry was going to have a long beer, because he and I had been singing all the way from Wagga and we were getting pretty dry. | ||
+ | |||
The hills about here are very steep and heavily timbered. In some places they have been cleared and are covered with bracken. Jim told us bracken springs up as soon as timber is cleared off; but it dies out in three or four years. | The hills about here are very steep and heavily timbered. In some places they have been cleared and are covered with bracken. Jim told us bracken springs up as soon as timber is cleared off; but it dies out in three or four years. | ||
- | By the way, Jim wouldn' | + | |
- | - 13 - | + | By the way, Jim wouldn' |
- | had unloaded and our goods and ohattels | + | We left camp at 8 a.m., went on up the valley through Tintaldra, with the Kosciusko range getting nearer all the time, and we could see the snow on the slopes up near the top. We reached a gully which had been eroded away, cutting through a lovely grassy flat to the Murray. Jim stopped the car and we went on a tour of inspection. The soil was rich in mica which shone like gold where the sun struck it. The gully is about a quarter of a mile long and about 20 feet deeps and has eroded away, leaving pinnacles and spires for all the world like the Grand Canyon of Arizona, in miniature. |
- | We left camp at 8 a.m., went on up the valley through Tintaldra, with the Kosciusko range getting nearer all the time, and we could see the snow on the slopes up near the top. We reached a gully which had been eroded away, cutting through a lovely grassy flat to the Murray. Jim stopped the car and we went on a tour of inspection. The soil was rich in mica which shone like gold where the sun struck it. The gully is about a quarter of a mile long and about 20 feet deeps and has eroded away, leaving pinnacles and spires for all the awrld like the Grand Canyon of Arizona, in miniature. | + | |
- | After taking some photos, we continued up the valley. Words cannot describe the beauty of the Murray Valley, with its lovely flats, covered with grass up to your knees with bright pink pretty Betsy, Blue Bells and yellow Buttercups all through it. There is also a tall plant with lilac-coloured flowers all round, and up the full length of the stems. Me Murray runs along the middle of the valley and is bordered with willows and tall gum trees; mountains tower on all sides, with Kosciusko range looking over their shoulders at the top end of the | + | After taking some photos, we continued up the valley. Words cannot describe the beauty of the Murray Valley, with its lovely flats, covered with grass up to your knees with bright pink pretty Betsy, Blue Bells and yellow Buttercups all through it. There is also a tall plant with lilac-coloured flowers all round, and up the full length of the stems. Me Murray runs along the middle of the valley and is bordered with willows and tall gum trees; mountains tower on all sides, with Kosciusko range looking over their shoulders at the top end of the valley. We passed several beautiful homesteads of cattle stations. It was a lovely, sparkling, sunshiney day and everything seemed glad to be alive. |
- | valley. We passed several beautiful homesteads of cattle stations. It was a lovely, sparkling, sunshiney day and everything seemed glad to be alive. | + | |
- | We arrived at Bringenbrong Bridge over the junction of the Swampy Plains and the Indi Rivers, which form the Murray. Up to this time, Jim had changed his mind about four times, as to where we were going; and he just had another idea so Harry appealed to him for goodness sake to stop changing his mind and stick to something definite. Then we went on past Bringenbrong homestead | + | We arrived at Bringenbrong Bridge over the junction of the Swampy Plains and the Indi Rivers, which form the Murray. Up to this time, Jim had changed his mind about four times, as to where we were going; and he just had another idea so Harry appealed to him for goodness sake to stop changing his mind and stick to something definite. Then we went on past Bringenbrong homestead where we met a man, who, when asked for information, |
- | where we met a man, who, when asked for information, | + | |
- | who lived in a big house on a hill in the middle of the valley. We climbed up the hill while Jim and Harry interviewed the old chap and got lots of information, | + | When we found out all that we wanted to know, we made our way up the divide, leaving Bringenbrong valley behind, to go down into lovely Khancoban valley, past Khancoban homestead. There were cattle everywhere, all as fat as mud, and this valley is even more beautiful than Bringenbrong. We left the car at Mr. Read’s |
- | which stands up like a cone in the middle of the valley, and commands a wonderful view all round. | + | |
- | When we found out all that we wanted to know, we made our way up the divide, leaving Bringenbrong valley behind, to go down into lovely Khancoban valley, past Khancoban homestead. There were cattle everywhere, all as fat as mud, and this valley is even more beautiful than Bringenbrong. We left the car at Mr. Readls | + | It was terribly hot work; but very easy walking, along a good track. When we got to the top of the first rise we reached the tall timber and thereafter, although it was uphill all the way, the track was shady. The country is quite different to our Blue Mountain country, in that there are no cliff faces, or even big rocks. The river beds are stoney, and that seems to be all. Again too, there are no prickly bushes or undergrowth, |
- | It was terribly hot work; but very easy walking, along a good track. When | + | |
- | we got to the top of the first rise we reached the tall timber and thereafter, although it was uphill all the way, the track was shady. The country is quite different to our Blue Mountain country, in that there are no cliff faces, or | + | We kept going up, on an easy grade and a good track, until we came to Back Creek, a lovely, little, bustling creek with a nice, grassy, flat alongside; and as it was 12.133 p.m. we had lunch. I might say that flies are another item in the make-up of that slice of country which is full of life and very busy, - they were in swarms. Jimmy said they worked shifts with the mosquitoes, the mosquitoes coming on duty at dusk when the flies went off; but I think the mossies loafed on the job, because they didn't worry us much. |
- | even big rocks. The river beds are stoney, and that seems to be all. Again | + | |
- | too, there are no prickly bushes or undergrowth, | + | We started off again at 1:35 p.m. and soon reached the top of Geehi Walls, from where we had a wonderful view of the Kosciusko range, Kosciusko itself being hidden by Mount Townsend. Jim and Harry pointed out Geehi Creek down which they had come, from Kosciusko, on their last trip. I was surprised when I actually saw Geehi Walls. I expected to see a cliff face; but it is merely a very steep mountainside, |
- | with seed heads knee-high, spangled with thousands of buttercups, bluebells and | + | |
- | violets all the way to the tops of the mountains, and in every small depression there is a beautiful, little, crystal-clear creek,rushing like mad between tree ferns. All the creeks seem in a terrible hurry, and fit in with the general scheme of things in that part of the world. Nothing is standing still; everything is Vigorous and growing with all its might, seemingly enjoying life to the | + | We went across a shady patch among the gum trees for about 100 yards and came to the Swampy Plains River in a terrible hurry. It was up to our knees, and so fast we could scarcely stand up against it. We crossed to the other side and all hands went swimming. We went in where we crossed |
- | - 14 | + | |
- | utmost. othing | + | We travelled along Geehi Flats for about half a mile and crossed again; it was a bit fiercer this time, and we had to watch our steps quarter of a mile of lovely track and views and then back across the it was the last time we expected to cross that night, we changed our Jim soaked the dried vegetables. We crossed more flats and met the Plains round the bend, where two men were camped. They had come in back and were trout fishing. We found afterwards that they came from which was parked next to Jim's as Mr. Read's place! |
- | for instance. | + | |
- | We kept going up, on an easy grade and a good track, until we came to | + | We went about half a mile farther upstream, and at 5:30 p.m. camped in an ideal spot - nice and flat - lovely green grass under big gums, with the river tearing past our door and tons of good firewood right alongside. I cooked stew of the remains of our working bullock from Wagga, some dried vegetables, one onion, one carrot, one parsnip and some spaghetti, with a little meat extract throw in for good measure. It wouldn' |
- | Back Creek, a lovely, little, bustling creek with a nice, grassy, flat along- | + | |
- | side; and as it was 12.133 p.m. we had lunch. I might say that flies are another item in the make-up of that slice of country which is full of life and very busy, - they were in swarms. Jimmy said they worked shifts with the mosquitoes, the mosquitoes coming on duty at dusk when the flies went off; but I think the mossies loafed on the job, because they didn't worry us much. | + | |
- | We started off again at 1:35 p.m. and soon reached the top of Geehi Walls, from where we had a wonderful view of the Kosciusko range, Kosciusko itself | + | |
- | being hidden by Mount Townsend. Jim and Harry pointed out Geehi Creek down which they had come, from Kosciusko, on their last trip. I was surprised | + | |
- | when I actually saw Geehi Walls. I expected to see a cliff face; but it is merely a very steep mountainside, | + | |
- | water laid on all the way - really a walker' | + | |
- | water near the banks, it rises, sparkling like gold in the sunlit water. | + | |
- | We went across a shady patch among the gum trees for about 100 yards and came to the Swampy Plains River in a terrible hurry. It was up to our knees, and so fast we could scarcely stand up against it. We crossed to the other side and all hands went swimming. We went in where we crossed,4nd let ourselves be washed down to the junction of Bogong Creek. Jim went farther | + | |
- | down to see what was round the corner. We swam about for half an hour or so, and it was marvellously refreshing, the water being cold and crystal-clear; | + | |
- | We travelled along Geehi Flats for about half a mile and crossed | + | |
- | again; it was a bit fiercer this time, and we had to watch our steps quarter of a mile of lovely track and views and then back across the it was the last time we expected to cross that night, we changed our | + | |
- | Jim soaked the dried vegetables. We crossed more flats and met the | + | |
- | Plains round the bend, where two men were camped. They had come in back and were trout fishing. We found afterwards that they came from | + | |
- | which was parked next to Jim's as Mr. Read's place! | + | |
- | the river | + | |
- | | + | |
- | on horse- | + | |
- | the car | + | |
- | We went about half a mile farther upstream, and at 5:30 p.m. camped in an | + | |
- | ideal spot - nice and flat - lovely green grass under big gums, with the river tearing past our door and tons of good firewood right alongside. I cooked stew | + | |
- | of the remains of our working bullock from Wagga, some dried vegetables, one onion,one carrot, one parsnip and some spaghetti, with a little meat extract throw in for good measure. It wouldn' | + | |
- | rice custard and stewed prunes. After tea I had a brain wave, and dug for worms, thinking I might go fishing; but as I found only two thin little things, I took pity on them and decided to leave the fish were they were, | + | |
- | went to bed about 10-40 p.m. and slept the sleep of the just. | + | |
Win. Duncombe. | Win. Duncombe. | ||
- | -15 - | + | |
- | A BUSH WALKERS IMPRESSION OF LONDON RAMBLERS | + | =====A BUSH WALKERS IMPRESSION OF LONDON RAMBLERS===== |
Being extracts from a letter of Grace Lofts written to Flo Allsworth. | Being extracts from a letter of Grace Lofts written to Flo Allsworth. | ||
- | Last Sunday Stoddy and I went on a Southern Railways Ramble - unknown to each other until to-day. The Railways provide the train and there are eight or nine volunteer leaders and rear-guarders - the latter to shut gates and hurry up stragglers. Club parties may go, and also individuals; | + | |
- | meet the special train at one of several different stations, and again at the | + | Last Sunday Stoddy and I went on a Southern Railways Ramble - unknown to each other until to-day. The Railways provide the train and there are eight or nine volunteer leaders and rear-guarders - the latter to shut gates and hurry up stragglers. Club parties may go, and also individuals; |
- | end of the day. | + | |
Of course, England has no spare firewood to be had for picking up, so one either takes an oil stove or books up in advance at a " | Of course, England has no spare firewood to be had for picking up, so one either takes an oil stove or books up in advance at a " | ||
- | The Southern Pathfinders have adopted me as a " | + | |
- | particular trip who wore shorts, and it was the first outing of the year on which they had not worn overcoats. Some of the party were in plusfours, complete with walking sticks, the other girls generally were in skirts and | + | The Southern Pathfinders have adopted me as a " |
- | pullovers with overcoats to carry. I overheard a discussion in which the | + | |
- | members were trying to decide whether I was an Australian or an Austrian | + | We left Victoria Station at 10:10 a.m. that is summertime, so it is really 9:10 a.m. - and the train trip WAS very pretty. It took us through orchards in blossom - pear trees, all white, with green grass and woolly lambs underneath, old villages, patches of wood, fields and then Maidstone. It was a real thrill to meet in the flesh names which up till then just belonged to books. There is not much fun in leading a mixed crowd such as you find on a railway ramble; but the inducement is a free first class fare. |
- | or other of which explained the size of my haversack. | + | |
- | We left Victoria Station at 10:10 a.m., that is Summertime, so it is really 9:10 a.m. - and the train trip WAS very pretty. It took us through orchards | + | We started walking at about a quarter to twelve - first along a road with lovely banks of primroses and violets, and patches of mauve cuckoo flowers beyond the trees. Then we turned off by a slippery, muddy cart-track between cultivation. In the middle of that was another wooded patch with white anemones, then road again, alongside of which was a really enticing bit of woodland aggressively labelled " |
- | in blossom - pear trees, all white, with green grass and woolly lambs under- | + | |
- | neath, old villages, patches of wood, fields and then Maidstone. It was a real thrill to meet in the flesh names which up till then just belonged to books. | + | There were patches of fields starred with daisies, banks by the side of the track thick with primroses and some violets for contrast. We passed one lot of bluebells, of the wild hyacinth variety, and another bigger blue flower whose name I have forgotten. |
- | There is not much fun in leading a mixed crowd such as you find on a | + | |
- | railway ramble; but the inducement is a free first class fare. | + | As Joan Ellwood was rear-guarding, |
- | We started walking at about a quarter to twelve - first along a road with lovely banks of primroses and violets, and patches of mauve cuckoo flowers beyond the trees. Then we turned off by a slippery, muddy cart-track between cultivation. In the middle of that was another wooded patch with white anemones, then road again, alongside of which was a really enticing bit of woodland aggressively labelled " | + | |
- | farmhouse - quite a platial | + | I thought you might like to see the United Dairies which are all over London. I shall take a snap of one of their little carts. I am told the Dairies have some grand parades and decorate the horses. When I asked about their rambles, someone thought that this was what I was talking about. |
- | There were patches of fields starred with daisies, banks by the side of the | + | |
- | track thick with primroses and some violets for contrast. We passed one lot of bluebells, of the wild hyacinth variety, and another bigger blue flower whose | + | |
- | name I have forgotten. | + | |
- | As Joan Ellwood was rear-guarding, | + | |
- | the different gates - they have everything except a wire gate that twists round | + | |
- | on itself. I wish I had counted all the stiles in the walk, there were about | + | |
- | six in the quarter of an hour I timed. It is a crime to muddy the top of the | + | |
- | stile as some of the uninitiated railways ramblers did. It is another crime to make a noise when going through woods at this time of the year, for they are generally game p-eserves, and one simply does not disturb the bircU-while nesting; | + | |
- | I thought you might like to see the United Dairies which are all over London. I shall take a snap of one of their little carts. I am told the Dairies have some grand parades and decorate the horses. When I asked about their rambles, someone thought that this was what I was talking about. | + | |
I went to the So-Pat Clubrooms last night. They are a wonderfully friendly lot. As they have a " | I went to the So-Pat Clubrooms last night. They are a wonderfully friendly lot. As they have a " | ||
- | QUESTIONS ANSWERED | + | |
- | By our Bus kwalking | + | =====QUESTIONS ANSWERED |
- | Are there any artists in the Bush Walkers' | + | By our Bushwalking |
- | We have many lady members who paint remarkably well. | + | |
- | In wet weather, where does one find dry kindling wood? A. Use your head. When camping, my wife will not cook. What shall I do? A. Eat her raw. | + | Q. Are there any artists in the Bush Walkers' |
- | I love to take my little dog out walking, but it always chases cows. Tql-mt | + | A. We have many lady members who paint remarkably well. |
- | Q. I am a very good bushman; but I can't understand why I always work round in circles when I'm lost. What is the explanation? | + | |
- | Perhaps you have one leg longer than the other. | + | Q. In wet weather, where does one find dry kindling wood? \\ |
- | Dontt you think the Bushwalkers carry too much gear? The size of. their rucksacks is certainly staggering. | + | A. Use your head. When camping, my wife will not cook. What shall I do? A. Eat her raw. |
- | Why should my landlord object so strongly to my returning to the flat in holey shorts? A. Perhaps the rent is in arrears. | + | |
- | Q. Why do Bushwalkers get bad-tempered when pushing through burnt scrub? A. They are not really-bad-tempered, | + | Q. I love to take my little dog out walking, but it always chases cows. What do you advise me to do? \\ |
- | Q. My boots are nearly worn through, and I have not the money to get them repaired. Must I give up walking? | + | A. Get a bull-dog. |
+ | |||
+ | Q. I am a very good bushman; but I can't understand why I always work round in circles when I'm lost. What is the explanation? | ||
+ | A: Perhaps you have one leg longer than the other. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Q. Don’t | ||
+ | A. The size of their rucksacks is certainly staggering. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Q. Why should my landlord object so strongly to my returning to the flat in holey shorts? | ||
+ | A. Perhaps the rent is in arrears. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Q. Why do Bushwalkers get bad-tempered when pushing through burnt scrub? | ||
+ | A. They are not really-bad-tempered, | ||
+ | |||
+ | Q. My boots are nearly worn through, and I have not the money to get them repaired. Must I give up walking? | ||
A. Keep going, you will soon be on your feet again. | A. Keep going, you will soon be on your feet again. | ||
- | Q. Dontt you think it is disgraceful that Bushwalkers should boast of having gone to the Dogs for four whole days at Easter. | + | |
+ | Q. Don’t | ||
A. I'm afraid you're barking up the wrong tree. | A. I'm afraid you're barking up the wrong tree. | ||
- | Q. We are informed that we spelt several persons' | + | |
- | A. I am not sure how the names were spelt in the Annual Report; but from Observation | + | Q. We are informed that we spelt several persons' |
- | Q. A. | + | A. I am not sure how the names were spelt in the Annual Report; but from observation |
- | Q. Q. Q. | + | |
- | A. Q. | + | =====THE |
- | A. Q. | + | Being the Epic of the laying 1:-N of the Black Dog by SIT and Timken, the two BeBTs. (Bearing-boys, |
- | - 17 - | + | |
- | TEE SIRIUS SAGA FROM TEE DOG TALES OF HOFFMAN. | + | |
- | Being the Epic of the laying 1:-N of the Black Dog by SIT and | + | |
- | Timken, the two BeBTs. | + | |
- | (Bearing-boys, | + | |
By W. Mullins. | By W. Mullins. | ||
+ | |||
Once upon a time there lived in the Blue Mountains a big bad Black Dog. | Once upon a time there lived in the Blue Mountains a big bad Black Dog. | ||
- | Now most people who came upon this Black Dog didn't worry about bearings or traverses, as these measures of bushcr aft were simply not known or not done. | + | |
+ | Now most people who came upon this Black Dog didn't worry about bearings or traverses, as these measures of bushcraft | ||
They just trusted to diligence, who of course is, as all good bushwalkers know the mother of good luck. | They just trusted to diligence, who of course is, as all good bushwalkers know the mother of good luck. | ||
+ | |||
It often happened, however, that the maternal guardianship of such diligence was absent and so a great many folk went astray. | It often happened, however, that the maternal guardianship of such diligence was absent and so a great many folk went astray. | ||
- | Nevertheless when such folk became foiled by the cunning of the bad Black Dog, they took the experience in the light of a lesson vowing to remember next time what all the old hunters of Dogs had told them; namely that when you want to go to the Cox by way of the Dogs, go on the back of one and not parasite fashion, clinging to his feet where he would easily be able to kick and snap at you. | + | |
- | And so for many years the Black Dog was a terrible bogey, grim and horrible fables found expression by the camp fire; survivors, however, scoffed and said | + | Nevertheless when such folk became foiled by the cunning of the bad Black Dog, they took the experience in the light of a lesson vowing to remember next time what all the old hunters of Dogs had told them; namely that when you want to go to the Cox by way of the Dogs, go on the back of one and not parasite fashion, clinging to his feet where he would easily be able to kick and snap at you. |
- | the Black Dog was a fool of a dog, blind in one eye and stone deaf, so that one | + | |
- | could easily mount his back without his knowing as much, and follow it to the tip of his nose. Once in that position one could grip his snout and he was at one's mercy. | + | And so for many years the Black Dog was a terrible bogey, grim and horrible fables found expression by the camp fire; survivors, however, scoffed and said the Black Dog was a fool of a dog, blind in one eye and stone deaf, so that one could easily mount his back without his knowing as much, and follow it to the tip of his nose. Once in that position one could grip his snout and he was at one's mercy. |
In order to lay this terrible bogey by the heels and chain him up, one of the most celebrated of all walkers make a vow that he would bind the Black Dog with a strong chain, a diamond chain so strong that the Black Dog would be forever leashed. | In order to lay this terrible bogey by the heels and chain him up, one of the most celebrated of all walkers make a vow that he would bind the Black Dog with a strong chain, a diamond chain so strong that the Black Dog would be forever leashed. | ||
- | This famour_ | + | |
+ | This famous | ||
He enlisted the aid of one Ninian the Swinger of needles and one Reg the Plotter of Traverses. | He enlisted the aid of one Ninian the Swinger of needles and one Reg the Plotter of Traverses. | ||
+ | |||
When these two knight boys (BU's) began the work of traversing and throwing the diamond chain across the Black Dog, Taro was a happy Duke. | When these two knight boys (BU's) began the work of traversing and throwing the diamond chain across the Black Dog, Taro was a happy Duke. | ||
+ | |||
He joined his diamonds with stout trees; hardwood, blackbutt and stringy- barks, so that the Black Dog became horribly enchained and tangled with a strong chain and hard trees. | He joined his diamonds with stout trees; hardwood, blackbutt and stringy- barks, so that the Black Dog became horribly enchained and tangled with a strong chain and hard trees. | ||
+ | |||
The BB's had a long job, monotonous and strenuous, but they carried on in the face of almost insurmountable difficulties. | The BB's had a long job, monotonous and strenuous, but they carried on in the face of almost insurmountable difficulties. | ||
" | " | ||
" | " | ||
- | "' | + | "' |
- | "Twohundred | + | "Two hundred |
And so it went on for hours, Nin swinging the needle like a man possessed, and Reg plotting like an anarchist. Counting the paces, plotting the calls making notes of the contours. | And so it went on for hours, Nin swinging the needle like a man possessed, and Reg plotting like an anarchist. Counting the paces, plotting the calls making notes of the contours. | ||
+ | |||
But these men were if nothing else the pioneers of the great new highway that Was to come:- The Roots Douglee Road, | But these men were if nothing else the pioneers of the great new highway that Was to come:- The Roots Douglee Road, | ||
+ | |||
So, in order to make the road, the track had to be cleaned. | So, in order to make the road, the track had to be cleaned. | ||
- | The grubbers, labourers who cut the scrub by the roots(or if this would not be cut, it is pulled, a technique attained after several miles of such grubbing) were the famoul | + | |
- | -18 - | + | The grubbers, labourers who cut the scrub by the roots (or if this would not be cut, it is pulled, a technique attained after several miles of such grubbing) were the famous |
- | These people were of a different school of thought. They believed in | + | |
- | peaceful penetration as opposed to the Duke's scheme of passive oppression. | + | These people were of a different school of thought. They believed in peaceful penetration as opposed to the Duke's scheme of passive oppression. |
- | Both forms of pacification and conquest have been proved to be successful, | + | |
- | (vide. The chronicles of nid Dog Wal: " | + | Both forms of pacification and conquest have been proved to be successful, (vide. The chronicles of Wild Dog Wal: " |
- | a Mug's Alley (" | + | |
- | The grubbers became so fed up that they almost lost their bearings. Pulling up | + | The grubbers became so fed up that they almost lost their bearings. Pulling up on scrub is no easy task, and one becomes very aggravated when a lot of talk is going on around |
- | up scrub is no easy task, and one becomes very aggravated when a lot of talk is going on arount | + | |
The whole thing culminated in a down tools when the job was half over. Not another strike, but the plaintive pangs of inner man at mid-day. | The whole thing culminated in a down tools when the job was half over. Not another strike, but the plaintive pangs of inner man at mid-day. | ||
- | Although the Roots Douglee scheme of peaceful penetration was not finished, the BB/s completed the work of leashing the Black Dog. | + | |
+ | Although the Roots Douglee scheme of peaceful penetration was not finished, the BB’s completed the work of leashing the Black Dog. | ||
On the night following, Sirius was to be seen high in the southern heavens and he looked particularly bright and unwinking. | On the night following, Sirius was to be seen high in the southern heavens and he looked particularly bright and unwinking. | ||
+ | |||
Little did the Duke and the BB's know the tricks old Sirius was up to. | Little did the Duke and the BB's know the tricks old Sirius was up to. | ||
- | Now, as related before the Black Dog was blind in one eye and although he struggled to free himself'from his bonds he could not see the chain which bound him because, firstly, he was pinned on one side, and secondly, his sound eye | + | |
- | could not see very well in the darkness. | + | Now, as related before the Black Dog was blind in one eye and although he struggled to free himself from his bonds he could not see the chain which bound him because, firstly, he was pinned on one side, and secondly, his sound eye could not see very well in the darkness. |
- | However Sirius, the dog star, patron of all dogs good and bad, came to his aid. | + | |
- | The Black Dog saw the diamonds flashing in the stirlight | + | However Sirius, the Dog Star, patron of all dogs good and bad, came to his aid. |
+ | |||
+ | The Black Dog saw the diamonds flashing in the starlight | ||
Next morning the dreadful discovery was made that the Black Dog had escaped. However, the Duke, although sad at heart, knew that even if his measures had not been preventative, | Next morning the dreadful discovery was made that the Black Dog had escaped. However, the Duke, although sad at heart, knew that even if his measures had not been preventative, | ||
- | So to-day somewhere in the Wild Dogs there roams an odd dog, not fitting in | + | |
- | with the landscape but waiting to lead perhaps the Duke or the BB/s to some uninhabited part and leave them to the mercy of his brother dogs. | + | So to-day somewhere in the Wild Dogs there roams an odd dog, not fitting in with the landscape but waiting to lead perhaps the Duke or the BB/s to some uninhabited part and leave them to the mercy of his brother dogs. |
- | The peaceful penetrations will no doubt remain safe, provided they carry an extra ration of biscuits and mince for the straying Black Dog who is no | + | |
- | longer a bogey. | + | The peaceful penetrations will no doubt remain safe, provided they carry an extra ration of biscuits and mince for the straying Black Dog who is no longer a bogey. |
- | In view of their famous research in the direction of bearings and traverses | + | |
- | Nin, the Swinger, became known as Skf, and Reg, the Plotter, as Timken. | + | In view of their famous research in the direction of bearings and traverses Nin, the Swinger, became known as Skf, and Reg, the Plotter, as Timken. |
- | (Acknowledgement is made to the manufacturers of | + | |
- | Hoffmann Skf and Timken bearings for the use of their trade names.) | + | (Acknowledgement is made to the manufacturers of Hoffmann Skf and Timken bearings for the use of their trade names.) |
- | Onward yet by river and glen . . | + | |
- | To the dear lone lands untroubled of men, | + | //Onward yet by river and glen. \\ |
- | Where no voice sounds, and amid shadowy green | + | To the dear lone lands untroubled of men, \\ |
- | The little things of the woodland live unseen. Euripides. | + | Where no voice sounds, and amid shadowy green \\ |
+ | The little things of the woodland live unseen. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Euripides. | ||
193607.txt · Last modified: 2015/09/30 14:08 by richard_pattison