User Tools

Site Tools


194010

Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

Link to this comparison view

Both sides previous revisionPrevious revision
194010 [2014/04/21 18:44] – [A BALLAD OF BUSHWALKERS' BASIN] allchin09194010 [2015/08/11 18:08] (current) sbw
Line 1: Line 1:
-===== THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER =====+===== The Sydney Bushwalker =====
  
 Monthly Bulletin devoted to matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, 5 Hamilton Street, Sydney Monthly Bulletin devoted to matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, 5 Hamilton Street, Sydney
Line 5: Line 5:
 No.70 Price 3d. No.70 Price 3d.
  
-===== OCTOBER, 1940 =====+===== October, 1940 =====
  
 |Editor |Dorothy Lawry| |Editor |Dorothy Lawry|
Line 12: Line 12:
 |Other members of the Publication Staff |Jessie Martin, Merle Hamilton, Mary Stoddart, and Arthur Salmon| |Other members of the Publication Staff |Jessie Martin, Merle Hamilton, Mary Stoddart, and Arthur Salmon|
  
-===== CONTENTS =====+===== Contents =====
  
 |Editorial | Page 1| |Editorial | Page 1|
Line 27: Line 27:
 |Memory Corner | Page 16| |Memory Corner | Page 16|
  
-===== EDITORIAL =====+===== Editorial =====
  
 There are such things as walking clubs whose members only meet at weekends to go walking together, but the S.B.W.. has never been like that. Jack Debert has reminded us again and again, "after all, this is a walking club!" and why -- because the S.B.W. is also a focal point round which the lives of its members are built. Its activities are so varied that each member can find scope for his or her talent - administrative, social, artistic or literary! There are such things as walking clubs whose members only meet at weekends to go walking together, but the S.B.W.. has never been like that. Jack Debert has reminded us again and again, "after all, this is a walking club!" and why -- because the S.B.W. is also a focal point round which the lives of its members are built. Its activities are so varied that each member can find scope for his or her talent - administrative, social, artistic or literary!
Line 35: Line 35:
 Old members are invited to supply material for "Memory Corner" and everyone is invited to produce songs or articles, etc. to carry on the S.B.W. traditions. Old members are invited to supply material for "Memory Corner" and everyone is invited to produce songs or articles, etc. to carry on the S.B.W. traditions.
  
-===== AT OUR OWN MEETING =====+===== At Our Own Meeting =====
  
 Two new members were welcomed at the Half-Yearly Meeting on 13th September, they were, Miss Beverley Druce and Mr. Noel Haviland. Two new members were welcomed at the Half-Yearly Meeting on 13th September, they were, Miss Beverley Druce and Mr. Noel Haviland.
Line 47: Line 47:
 Certificates were presented to Winners of the various events at the recent Sports Carnival and, on behalf of those members who were at the Carnival, the President handed Bill Henley a memento of the occasion, which was his birthday as well as a very busy day for him as handicapper, starter and judge. Could we hold a Carnival without Bill? We doubt it. Certificates were presented to Winners of the various events at the recent Sports Carnival and, on behalf of those members who were at the Carnival, the President handed Bill Henley a memento of the occasion, which was his birthday as well as a very busy day for him as handicapper, starter and judge. Could we hold a Carnival without Bill? We doubt it.
  
-At about this point the Chairman took the opportunity of expressing the Club's appreciation of Tom Moppetts work As Hon.Secretary and its gratification that Jean Trimbles, who has been Tom's Assistant, was prepared to carry on as Hon.Secretary.+At about this point the Chairman took the opportunity of expressing the Club's appreciation of Tom Moppetts work As Hon.Secretary and its gratification that Jean Trimble, who has been Tom's Assistant, was prepared to carry on as Hon.Secretary.
  
 Next came the important business of, electing a number of new officers, namely:- Next came the important business of, electing a number of new officers, namely:-
Line 64: Line 64:
 Last, but not least, the President announced that recently it had been noticed that there was a growing practice of taking dogs on official trips. After due consideration the Committee had decided, for a number of reasons, to request members to refrain from taking dogs on official trips. One of the most serious reasons for this ban is that dogs naturally run on ahead, particularly when they are thirsty and scent water. With running streams practically nonexistent and even pools very rare owing to the drought, every care has to be taken with drinking water - and most humans don't like drinking after dogs, - so, no dogs on bushwalks while the drought lasts, please!! Last, but not least, the President announced that recently it had been noticed that there was a growing practice of taking dogs on official trips. After due consideration the Committee had decided, for a number of reasons, to request members to refrain from taking dogs on official trips. One of the most serious reasons for this ban is that dogs naturally run on ahead, particularly when they are thirsty and scent water. With running streams practically nonexistent and even pools very rare owing to the drought, every care has to be taken with drinking water - and most humans don't like drinking after dogs, - so, no dogs on bushwalks while the drought lasts, please!!
  
-===== PHYLLIS ROOTS =====+===== Phyllis Roots =====
    
 Before proceeding to the business of the Half-Yearly Meeting our President very sorrowfully announced the death of one of the Club's most valued members - Phil Roots - and paid a tribute to the work both Wal and Phil had done for the Club during their eleven years of membership. Before proceeding to the business of the Half-Yearly Meeting our President very sorrowfully announced the death of one of the Club's most valued members - Phil Roots - and paid a tribute to the work both Wal and Phil had done for the Club during their eleven years of membership.
Line 94: Line 94:
 Gave to me." Gave to me."
  
-===== KATOOMBA KANANGRA KATOOMBA ===== +===== Katoomba Kanangra Katoomba =====  
 by W.T.W by W.T.W
  
 Having caught an early train which left town at 5.17 p m. on Friday, 7th June last, we reached Katoomba, the jumping-off point for so many trips, at about 7.30 p.m. Having caught an early train which left town at 5.17 p m. on Friday, 7th June last, we reached Katoomba, the jumping-off point for so many trips, at about 7.30 p.m.
  
-Reinforced with hot coffee to keep off cold and drowsiness, we took a car to the top of the Devil'Hole, whence we set off at eight o'clock. Devil's Hole, always a drag at the end of a long trip, proved of little trouble at the beginning of this one and, after slipping and sliding on loose rocks and wet logs, we reached the foot in good time and began to lengthen out on the flat, easy track.+Reinforced with hot coffee to keep off cold and drowsiness, we took a car to the top of the Devils Hole, whence we set off at eight o'clock. Devil's Hole, always a drag at the end of a long trip, proved of little trouble at the beginning of this one and, after slipping and sliding on loose rocks and wet logs, we reached the foot in good time and began to lengthen out on the flat, easy track.
  
 On a moonlight night Megalong Valley offers many attractions to the walker who is willing to forego a few hours sleep in order to cover a large part of the walk on Friday night. To the east Narrow Neck towers above, large and majestic, brightly lit on its great, bare rock faces, and dark and mysterious in sheltered corners where the moon does not penetrate. One strides through an avenue of tall gums, between the limbs and foliage of which the moonlight shin, casting fantastic shadows on the white track. On a moonlight night Megalong Valley offers many attractions to the walker who is willing to forego a few hours sleep in order to cover a large part of the walk on Friday night. To the east Narrow Neck towers above, large and majestic, brightly lit on its great, bare rock faces, and dark and mysterious in sheltered corners where the moon does not penetrate. One strides through an avenue of tall gums, between the limbs and foliage of which the moonlight shin, casting fantastic shadows on the white track.
  
-The Cox was reached, via Black Jerry'Ridge, at 10.45 p.m. and a halt was called for chocolate. Then on once again, this time accompanied by the pleasant sound of the river flowing placidly by our sides. Truly, the river banks are alive at night! 'Possums, wallabies and other fauna scattered to one side with many a rustling as we came along, disturbing their nocturnal gatherings.+The Cox was reached, via Black Jerrys Ridge, at 10.45 p.m. and a halt was called for chocolate. Then on once again, this time accompanied by the pleasant sound of the river flowing placidly by our sides. Truly, the river banks are alive at night! 'Possums, wallabies and other fauna scattered to one side with many a rustling as we came along, disturbing their nocturnal gatherings.
  
 Towards midnight, an opening on our right indicated that we had reached Jenolan River and Breakfast Creek showed up about forty minutes later. Finally. We halted at 1.00 a.m., a little above Heartbreaker, and, after cocoa, crawled into our sleeping-bags to sleep soundly until 5.30 a.m. Towards midnight, an opening on our right indicated that we had reached Jenolan River and Breakfast Creek showed up about forty minutes later. Finally. We halted at 1.00 a.m., a little above Heartbreaker, and, after cocoa, crawled into our sleeping-bags to sleep soundly until 5.30 a.m.
  
-We were away rather later than hoped (at 6.40 a m.), walking down the Cox in the early morning was very pleasant, and exhilarating, and we were quite warm when Kanangaroo was reached at 8.27 a.m. Here we had chocolate and a few minutes conversation with Mr.Carlon, Brian Harvey and Alf.Watts, who were camping there for several days.+We were away rather later than hoped (at 6.40 a m.), walking down the Cox in the early morning was very pleasant, and exhilarating, and we were quite warm when Konangaroo was reached at 8.27 a.m. Here we had chocolate and a few minutes conversation with Mr.Carlon, Brian Harvey and Alf.Watts, who were camping there for several days.
  
 Arthur and I, who were inclined to race ahead, reached Kanangra Creek a few minutes ahead of the other two and, at 9.42 we all proceeded up the Creek, in which there was little water, and, for many long stretches, only boulders covered with dry, green slime indicated where water once flowed in abundance. However, higher up, where the Gorge becomes narrower, water was more plentiful. Arthur and I, who were inclined to race ahead, reached Kanangra Creek a few minutes ahead of the other two and, at 9.42 we all proceeded up the Creek, in which there was little water, and, for many long stretches, only boulders covered with dry, green slime indicated where water once flowed in abundance. However, higher up, where the Gorge becomes narrower, water was more plentiful.
Line 115: Line 116:
 We stopped for lunch promptly at noon and secured a well-earned rest until 1.10 p.m. Shortly after resuming, we obtained our first glimpse of Kanangra Walls, still a long way off, but becoming rapidly closer. We were all very delighted to be in sight of our objective and to know that we were well up to schedule. We stopped for lunch promptly at noon and secured a well-earned rest until 1.10 p.m. Shortly after resuming, we obtained our first glimpse of Kanangra Walls, still a long way off, but becoming rapidly closer. We were all very delighted to be in sight of our objective and to know that we were well up to schedule.
  
-At 1.50 p.m. we judged that we must be below Craft's walls, and the great ascent began. The spur chosen was steep but not difficult and, after fighting our way through patches of thick mountain holly, we finally reached the Walls at 2.45 p m. we suckled oranges and surveyed the long slope up which we had come, for fifteen minutes, and then on once again. Soon we were on top of the main walls, enjoying once again the thrilling breathtaking view of Gangerang, rising step by step from High and Mighty to Couldmaker, of Thyrat [Thurat], of Kanangra Deep and The Spires, and then, to the south, of the magnificent Kowmung country. No matter how many, times one goes to Kanangra, one can never tire of the glorious cyclorama one obtains from the many vantage points, nor can one forget the first inspiring view of one's first visit.+At 1.50 p.m. we judged that we must be below Crafts Wall, and the great ascent began. The spur chosen was steep but not difficult and, after fighting our way through patches of thick mountain holly, we finally reached the Walls at 2.45 p m. we suckled oranges and surveyed the long slope up which we had come, for fifteen minutes, and then on once again. Soon we were on top of the main walls, enjoying once again the thrilling breathtaking view of Gangerang, rising step by step from High and Mighty to Cloudmaker, of Thyrat [Thurat], of Kanangra Deep and The Spires [Thurat Spires], and then, to the south, of the magnificent Kowmung country. No matter how many, times one goes to Kanangra, one can never tire of the glorious cyclorama one obtains from the many vantage points, nor can one forget the first inspiring view of one's first visit.
  
-As the afternoon was well advanced, Ron and Norm decided to waste no time, and left immediately to pick up the Gingra Track, for we hoped to reach the Kowmung that night. Arthur and I wishing to complete the tour, hurried along to the famous dance-floor cave, where, incidentally, we found no water. At 4.15 p.m. we set out along the Gingra, and found good, running water about twenty minutes down the track. Darkness had fallen before we caught up with Ron and Norm, and we still had a considerable way to go. Most of the way the track is good, and easy to follow even at night, but in one or two spots one is liable to go astray. This we did on Third Top. Instead of keeping to the crown of the ridge, the track skirts round on the left side of the Top, and the ridge changes direction slightly, bearing to the left. Anyhow, we kept to the top of the ridge and continued on until we found that we were going south instead of north-east. We retraced our steps to the summit of Third Top +As the afternoon was well advanced, Ron and Norm decided to waste no time, and left immediately to pick up the Gingra Track, for we hoped to reach the Kowmung that night. Arthur and I wishing to complete the tour, hurried along to the famous dance-floor cave, where, incidentally, we found no water. At 4.15 p.m. we set out along the Gingra, and found good, running water about twenty minutes down the track. Darkness had fallen before we caught up with Ron and Norm, and we still had a considerable way to go. Most of the way the track is good, and easy to follow even at night, but in one or two spots one is liable to go astray. This we did on Third Top. Instead of keeping to the crown of the ridge, the track skirts round on the left side of the Top, and the ridge changes direction slightly, bearing to the left. Anyhow, we kept to the top of the ridge and continued on until we found that we were going south instead of north-east. We retraced our steps to the summit of Third Top and endeavoured to pick up the track. We were unable to do this in the darkness and finally, after long discussion, we decided to make a dry camp where we were though it was only 8.00 p.m. Fortunately a plentiful supply of wood was available, and, despite the stony nature of the ground, all were asleep by 9.30 p.m.
-and endeavoured to pick up the track. We were unable to do this in the darkness and finally, after long discussion, we decided to make a dry camp where we were though it was only 8.00 p.m. Fortunately a plentiful supply of wood was available, and, despite the stony nature of the ground, all were asleep by 9.30 p.m.+
  
 Sunday morning found us up early and, after a hasty breakfast of biscuits and dates, looking for the track at about 6.30 a.m. I fear that, in our hurry to be off again, we failed to appreciate sufficiently the beauty of the sunrise as dawn broke over the distant mountains. We soon picked up the track, and in under two hours Arthur and I were speeding down the gentle slope of Gingra to the Kowmung with the others only a few minutes behind. We spent from 8.20 a.m. to 10.25 a.m. having a swim and breakfast, and discussing our ill fortune in missing the track on the previous evening. Sunday morning found us up early and, after a hasty breakfast of biscuits and dates, looking for the track at about 6.30 a.m. I fear that, in our hurry to be off again, we failed to appreciate sufficiently the beauty of the sunrise as dawn broke over the distant mountains. We soon picked up the track, and in under two hours Arthur and I were speeding down the gentle slope of Gingra to the Kowmung with the others only a few minutes behind. We spent from 8.20 a.m. to 10.25 a.m. having a swim and breakfast, and discussing our ill fortune in missing the track on the previous evening.
Line 124: Line 124:
 We set off rather more slowly after breakfast in order to allow our somewhat liberal meals to settle. However, we soon quickened up on the easy cowpads as we were rather behind schedule, and, after picking our way through the massive rock formations of the Lower Kowmung Canyon, reached the Cox at 1.20 p m. We spent twenty five minutes here for a snack, but not too much, as we had now to climb White Dog, which we did, reaching Kelpie Rocks at 2.30 p.m. Although not comparable with that from Splendour Rock, the view from here is pleasant; one can see a large stretch of the Cox, bordered with casuarinas and grassy banks, and one notices regretfully the wide expanse of dry sand and the narrow stretch of water, glistening here and there with sunlight, where once a full stream flowed. We set off rather more slowly after breakfast in order to allow our somewhat liberal meals to settle. However, we soon quickened up on the easy cowpads as we were rather behind schedule, and, after picking our way through the massive rock formations of the Lower Kowmung Canyon, reached the Cox at 1.20 p m. We spent twenty five minutes here for a snack, but not too much, as we had now to climb White Dog, which we did, reaching Kelpie Rocks at 2.30 p.m. Although not comparable with that from Splendour Rock, the view from here is pleasant; one can see a large stretch of the Cox, bordered with casuarinas and grassy banks, and one notices regretfully the wide expanse of dry sand and the narrow stretch of water, glistening here and there with sunlight, where once a full stream flowed.
  
-From Kelpie Rocks we followed a well-defined ridge towards +From Kelpie Rocks we followed a well-defined ridge towards the base of Mt Mouin, and then turned and headed for Debert's Nob [Mt Debert]. Clear Hill was scaled by 4.25 p.m. and ten minutes later, we were beginning the long-familiar walk into Katoomba. Darkness soon fell upon us, and so, for the third night in succession, we walked by torchlight, but on this occasion in order to catch a train. By this time all our batteries, with the exception of Norm's, were very low and we had to pick our way carefully in many parts.
-the base of Mt.Mouin, and then turned and headed for Debert's Nob. Clear Hill was scaled by 4.25 p.m. and ten minutes later, we were beginning the long-familiar walk into Katoomba. Darkness soon fell upon us, and so, for the third night in succession, we walked by torchlight, but on this occasion in order to catch a train. By this time all our batteries, with the exception of Norm's, were very low and we had to pick our way carefully in many parts.+
  
 At last, at 7.25 p.m. we reached the Tourist Road on Narrow Neck and soon were in the Golf Club, whence we rang for a car, and where we met very kind hospitality, in the form of milk and cream cakes. These were consumed with relish for we had had no real lunch that day. At last, at 7.25 p.m. we reached the Tourist Road on Narrow Neck and soon were in the Golf Club, whence we rang for a car, and where we met very kind hospitality, in the form of milk and cream cakes. These were consumed with relish for we had had no real lunch that day.
Line 133: Line 132:
 Thus concluded an eighty one mile week-end walk from Katoomba to Kanangra Walls and back. Thus concluded an eighty one mile week-end walk from Katoomba to Kanangra Walls and back.
  
-===== "SUGAR TESTS PURITY OF DRINKING WATER" !!! =====+===== "Sugar Tests Purity Of Drinking Water" !!! =====
  
 Two or three months ago the SBW Library received a present of some books, amongst which was the "Sportsman's Manual" 1937 Edition, an American publication. One member who had been browsing through this Manual was so taken with the following "Handy Kink For Outdoor Enthusiasts" that he suggested the reprinting of this. Two or three months ago the SBW Library received a present of some books, amongst which was the "Sportsman's Manual" 1937 Edition, an American publication. One member who had been browsing through this Manual was so taken with the following "Handy Kink For Outdoor Enthusiasts" that he suggested the reprinting of this.
Line 141: Line 140:
 As the test takes __one week,__ what does one do for a drink in the meantime !!! As the test takes __one week,__ what does one do for a drink in the meantime !!!
  
-===== AROUND AUSTRALIA'S CAPITAL =====+===== Around Australia's Capital ===== 
 by Bertie Whillier by Bertie Whillier
  
Line 150: Line 150:
 The longing for high places forced me to rush to the mountains at the first opportunity. We were able to take "Bertha" four miles past the Mt. Franklin Chalet along the new road. Then a couple of miles walk through beautiful, undulating, hilly country, with little valleys and nice grassy flats, took us to Stockyard Creek Hut, situated in a nice woodland glade, with snow gums in the majority. This is a Federal Forestry hut and is usually deserted, the ranger riding up once a month to read the raingauge. The longing for high places forced me to rush to the mountains at the first opportunity. We were able to take "Bertha" four miles past the Mt. Franklin Chalet along the new road. Then a couple of miles walk through beautiful, undulating, hilly country, with little valleys and nice grassy flats, took us to Stockyard Creek Hut, situated in a nice woodland glade, with snow gums in the majority. This is a Federal Forestry hut and is usually deserted, the ranger riding up once a month to read the raingauge.
  
-After a Moderate breakfast (do I hear cries of Shame?) - not a pound of prunes, either- we followed a grassy track that steadily wound uphill to the saddle, over which we saw a beautiful alpine swamp. Swamps are usually nasty affairs, but alpine swamps are criss-crossed by little clear creeks, which run through soft, featherbed moss, dotted abundantly with flowers. Ev. and I crossed Gingera flats, as this beautyspot is called, myself going first and testing the moss and finding jumping-off places to cross these little creeks. We then ascended about 500 ft. or 600 ft. to the summit of Mt.Bimberi (6274 ft.) and the highest peak in the Territory. To the south lay the snow-covered pain range, of Kosciusko and, nearer to us, the swampy plains near the Monaro Highway.+After a Moderate breakfast (do I hear cries of Shame?) - not a pound of prunes, either- we followed a grassy track that steadily wound uphill to the saddle, over which we saw a beautiful alpine swamp. Swamps are usually nasty affairs, but alpine swamps are criss-crossed by little clear creeks, which run through soft, featherbed moss, dotted abundantly with flowers. Ev. and I crossed Gingera flats, as this beauty spot is called, myself going first and testing the moss and finding jumping-off places to cross these little creeks. We then ascended about 500 ft. or 600 ft. to the summit of Mt Bimberi (6274 ft.) and the highest peak in the Territory. To the south lay the snow-covered pain range, of Kosciusko and, nearer to us, the swampy plains near the Monaro Highway.
  
-Another Week-end we set out to climb Mt.Corree, which we had noticed on the way to Mt.Franklin. It lies off the main ridge. Down below it nestled a big clearing which looked, and was a campers' paradise. There is a shelter +Another Week-end we set out to climb Mt Corree, which we had noticed on the way to Mt Franklin. It lies off the main ridge. Down below it nestled a big clearing which looked, and was a campers' paradise. There is a shelter shed here, with a nice, big, open fireplace.
-shed here, with a nice, big, open fireplace.+
  
 Then we set out early next morning, in the pack was a clothes line rope which I doubled for use. We headed for a big outcrop of rocks. These great outcrops of rock are firm, with plenty of hand and foot holds. It was Ev's first experience of rock-climbing and she took to it like a duck to water. From the summit we had a marvellous view; looking eastwards we could see Canberra, while to the west was Brindabella Mountain and the homestead clearing. The only thing that spoils the climbing in this part is that there are a dozen easy ways up, but, if one keeps to the rocks, rock-climbing the equal of any I have ever seen is encountered. Then we set out early next morning, in the pack was a clothes line rope which I doubled for use. We headed for a big outcrop of rocks. These great outcrops of rock are firm, with plenty of hand and foot holds. It was Ev's first experience of rock-climbing and she took to it like a duck to water. From the summit we had a marvellous view; looking eastwards we could see Canberra, while to the west was Brindabella Mountain and the homestead clearing. The only thing that spoils the climbing in this part is that there are a dozen easy ways up, but, if one keeps to the rocks, rock-climbing the equal of any I have ever seen is encountered.
  
-Next we went to Tidbinbilla Mt., which is also off the main range and lies at the head of a fertile Valley, ringed in with mountains. Ev. and I climbed up to Fisher'Gap, then right along the ridge, which for about half a mile is only a few feet wide and often only a knife-edge of rock with a steep arop on both sides - on the western side the Cotter catchment area and on the other Tidbinbilla Valley. Across the Cotter Valley lies the main range of the Federal Territory with Mts. Bimberi, Ginini, Gingera and Franklin, etc., in view. It took us about three hours to reach the summit (5124 ft.) from Fisher's Gap.+Next we went to Tidbinbilla Mt., which is also off the main range and lies at the head of a fertile Valley, ringed in with mountains. Ev. and I climbed up to Fishers Gap, then right along the ridge, which for about half a mile is only a few feet wide and often only a knife-edge of rock with a steep arop on both sides - on the western side the Cotter catchment area and on the other Tidbinbilla Valley. Across the Cotter Valley lies the main range of the Federal Territory with Mts. Bimberi, Ginini, Gingera and Franklin, etc., in view. It took us about three hours to reach the summit (5124 ft.) from Fisher's Gap.
  
-A very poor snow season disappointed us as we had hoped to do quite a lot of ski-ing but we managed three week-ends on the snow. Living in Canberra, I was able to observe the snowfalls working up. The first sign would be some streaky, high cloud in the N. over the mountains. Then, in a +A very poor snow season disappointed us as we had hoped to do quite a lot of ski-ing but we managed three week-ends on the snow. Living in Canberra, I was able to observe the snowfalls working up. The first sign would be some streaky, high cloud in the N. over the mountains. Then, in a few hours, a few black, rolling clouds low down underneath the higher, smooth, starchy-looking clouds. Gradually it would get darker until black clouds covered the mountains and cold showers, borne on a gusty, blustering wind, would be our lot in Canberra. Next morning we would see all the mountains beautiful with snow-capped summits and we would plan for a ski-ing week-end.
-few hours, a few black, rolling clouds low down underneath the higher, smooth, starchy-looking clouds. Gradually it would get darker until black clouds covered the mountains and cold showers, borne on a gusty, blustering wind, would be our lot in Canberra. Next morning we would see all the mountains beautiful with snow-capped summits and we would plan for a ski-ing week-end.+
  
 The Murrumbidgee attracted us next, so we set off one Friday night in "Bertha" and camped near the bridge close to the Cotter Dam. Leaving "Bertha" there and heading downstream, the going was good - grassy flats on each side of the river. Willows grew in abundance. The Murrumbidgee on this stretch is a swift-flowing river, fairly deep and wide, with plenty of rapids to delight the eye. The sides are mainly green hills about 300 ft. to 500 ft. high, sometimes tree-covered, mostly grass covered. The Murrumbidgee attracted us next, so we set off one Friday night in "Bertha" and camped near the bridge close to the Cotter Dam. Leaving "Bertha" there and heading downstream, the going was good - grassy flats on each side of the river. Willows grew in abundance. The Murrumbidgee on this stretch is a swift-flowing river, fairly deep and wide, with plenty of rapids to delight the eye. The sides are mainly green hills about 300 ft. to 500 ft. high, sometimes tree-covered, mostly grass covered.
Line 180: Line 178:
 All the trips we did were within forty miles radius of Canberra so it can be seen what a paradise for bushwalkers Australia's capital territory is. All the trips we did were within forty miles radius of Canberra so it can be seen what a paradise for bushwalkers Australia's capital territory is.
  
-===== ANOTHER LETTER FROM THE RIVER CANOE CLUB'S MAPPING SECTION =====+===== Another Letter From The River Canoe Club's Mapping Section =====
  
 "Dear Miss Lawry, "Dear Miss Lawry,
Line 194: Line 192:
 Convenor\\ Convenor\\
  
-===== FEDERATION NOTES =====+===== Federation Notes =====
  
 In August the Federation donated £10 to the Garawarra Park Trust to enable it to carry on until about October as its funds were exhausted and the question of Government grants to public parks would not be receiving consideration for some weeks. Delegates were glad to hear in September that the Trust had subsequently secured a Government "advance" of £8 against its possible grant. In August the Federation donated £10 to the Garawarra Park Trust to enable it to carry on until about October as its funds were exhausted and the question of Government grants to public parks would not be receiving consideration for some weeks. Delegates were glad to hear in September that the Trust had subsequently secured a Government "advance" of £8 against its possible grant.
Line 206: Line 204:
 Not long ago a Youth Hostels Association was established in Victoria and we understand it is making satisfactory progress. There is now a movement afoot to start a Youth Hostel Association in N.S.W. and its sponsors have approached the Federation seeking support, and offering representation on the directorate. While it is felt that experienced bushwalkers will almost certainly continue to camp, there are many ways in which our knowledge could greatly assist this new movement, and some ways in which it could help our members, such as by providing places where food could be bought if and when its hostels extend to the wilds of the mountains. The Federation has, therefore, decided to accept the invitation of the Health and Happiness Movement (which is supported by the National Fitness Council), so the bushwalking clubs, through their accredited representatives, will be co-operating in the establishment of Youth Hostels round the Sydney district. Not long ago a Youth Hostels Association was established in Victoria and we understand it is making satisfactory progress. There is now a movement afoot to start a Youth Hostel Association in N.S.W. and its sponsors have approached the Federation seeking support, and offering representation on the directorate. While it is felt that experienced bushwalkers will almost certainly continue to camp, there are many ways in which our knowledge could greatly assist this new movement, and some ways in which it could help our members, such as by providing places where food could be bought if and when its hostels extend to the wilds of the mountains. The Federation has, therefore, decided to accept the invitation of the Health and Happiness Movement (which is supported by the National Fitness Council), so the bushwalking clubs, through their accredited representatives, will be co-operating in the establishment of Youth Hostels round the Sydney district.
  
-===== "ARE YOU LIVING WHERE YOU'RE LIVING NOWOR HAVE YOU MOVED AWAY?" =====+===== "Are You Living Where You're Living NowOr Have You Moved Away?" =====
  
 Of course, we all know our Hon.Secretaries are remarkably clever as well as enthusiastic and hard working, but we do think it is a little hard to expect them to know by instinct, intuition or clairvoyance, our new addresses, so - Don't forget to let out new Secretary, Jean Moppett, know when you move. In fact, it would be a, good idea to check up and see what address she has for you. If it is the one you gave the club not the last time you moved, but the time before that, you won't get your notices, or anything else of interest from the Club. Of course, we all know our Hon.Secretaries are remarkably clever as well as enthusiastic and hard working, but we do think it is a little hard to expect them to know by instinct, intuition or clairvoyance, our new addresses, so - Don't forget to let out new Secretary, Jean Moppett, know when you move. In fact, it would be a, good idea to check up and see what address she has for you. If it is the one you gave the club not the last time you moved, but the time before that, you won't get your notices, or anything else of interest from the Club.
  
-===== THE SEARCH AND RESCUE WEEKEND =====+===== The Search And Rescue Weekend ===== 
 By our Special Reporter By our Special Reporter
  
 Owing to so many of the organizers and members of the Search and Rescue Section being in camp and otherwise tied up with the "Services", the Committee decided not to conduct a practice Search with "lost parties" etc, as in previous years, but, instead, to hold a Field weekend featuring Bush First Aid. Owing to so many of the organizers and members of the Search and Rescue Section being in camp and otherwise tied up with the "Services", the Committee decided not to conduct a practice Search with "lost parties" etc, as in previous years, but, instead, to hold a Field weekend featuring Bush First Aid.
  
-This function was held on the second weekend in September at Norton's Basin on the Nepean River. Fifty odd walkers, representing about seven of the Federated Clubs, gathered on the Skipper's launch at Penrith on the Saturday afternoon She was soon under weight and with chatter, jokes and the tinkle of the pianola the time passed quickly until the end of the launch trip. To ferry the folks over to the usual campsite a skiff was provided and a privately owned canoe also did its bit. It took a fair while to get the whole party over in the leaky boat and tiny canoe and all sorts of predictions were made by those watching on the +This function was held on the second weekend in September at Norton's Basin on the Nepean River. Fifty odd walkers, representing about seven of the Federated Clubs, gathered on the Skipper's launch at Penrith on the Saturday afternoon She was soon under weight and with chatter, jokes and the tinkle of the pianola the time passed quickly until the end of the launch trip. To ferry the folks over to the usual campsite a skiff was provided and a privately owned canoe also did its bit. It took a fair while to get the whole party over in the leaky boat and tiny canoe and all sorts of predictions were made by those watching on the banks, but the task of transporting the entire party, about six at a time, was eventually accomplished without mishap.
-banks, but the task of transporting the entire party, about six at a time, was eventually accomplished without mishap.+
  
 Campsites were chosen, food parties re-united, firewood collected and the usual hundred and one camp tasks were soon well in hand. Tents sprang up like mushrooms, and then the owner of the land rode up on his horse and collected 6d per tent camping fee. Campsites were chosen, food parties re-united, firewood collected and the usual hundred and one camp tasks were soon well in hand. Tents sprang up like mushrooms, and then the owner of the land rode up on his horse and collected 6d per tent camping fee.
Line 234: Line 232:
 The next talk and demonstration was given by Albert Crandon of the Mountain Trails Club assisted by Brian Harvey of the S.B.W. They spoke on how to treat and care for an injured person and showed how to handle a broken leg, making use of whatever material could be found for splints, bandages etc. The "victim" was young Tim Coffey of the S.B.W. and the backchat between Tim and his pals in the group was really funny. But the joke was soon over and everyone settled down to listen and learn all they could. The next talk and demonstration was given by Albert Crandon of the Mountain Trails Club assisted by Brian Harvey of the S.B.W. They spoke on how to treat and care for an injured person and showed how to handle a broken leg, making use of whatever material could be found for splints, bandages etc. The "victim" was young Tim Coffey of the S.B.W. and the backchat between Tim and his pals in the group was really funny. But the joke was soon over and everyone settled down to listen and learn all they could.
  
-After the "broken leg" was mended and released, the folks gathered round Albert and Brian and looked at diagrams and asked questions dealing with the treatments of various accidents, sicknesses etc. likely to occur in the bush, +After the "broken leg" was mended and released, the folks gathered round Albert and Brian and looked at diagrams and asked questions dealing with the treatments of various accidents, sicknesses etc. likely to occur in the bush, and so on till lunch time.
-and so on till lunch time.+
  
 The afternoon was more or less "free choice". Some people went swimming in Norton's Basin and some climbed around the hills nearby and others just lay in the sun and snoozed. The afternoon was more or less "free choice". Some people went swimming in Norton's Basin and some climbed around the hills nearby and others just lay in the sun and snoozed.
Line 245: Line 242:
 So, with song and more talk and some consumption of food, the party sped down the river in the good ship "Reliance" and in the soft dusk tied up at Penrith. Then a brisk walk to the station and, fortified with food purchased along the way, into the train and home after a really splendid and instructive weekend. So, with song and more talk and some consumption of food, the party sped down the river in the good ship "Reliance" and in the soft dusk tied up at Penrith. Then a brisk walk to the station and, fortified with food purchased along the way, into the train and home after a really splendid and instructive weekend.
  
-CLUB: GOSSIP+===== Club Gossip =====
  
 We wonder if there was "a Mr. Fiddlebowl in the audience" on September 25th when Nancy Wilson became Mrs.Gordon Pritchard? Even if the mythical "Mr.Fiddlebowl"- did not add to the gaiety of that occasion we wish Gordon and Nancy "all the brightest and best" We wonder if there was "a Mr. Fiddlebowl in the audience" on September 25th when Nancy Wilson became Mrs.Gordon Pritchard? Even if the mythical "Mr.Fiddlebowl"- did not add to the gaiety of that occasion we wish Gordon and Nancy "all the brightest and best"
Line 269: Line 266:
 ---- ----
  
-===== MEMORY CORNER =====+===== Memory Corner =====
  
-The S.B.W. was still a lusty infant when its first Swimming Carnival was arranged, but already it had started filing in the blanks on the maps, and the pool on the Gorger's River where Punchbowl Creek enters it had been named "BushwalkersBasin."+The S.B.W. was still a lusty infant when its first Swimming Carnival was arranged, but already it had started filing in the blanks on the maps, and the pool on the Georges Rivers where Punchbowl Creek enters it had been named "Bushwalkers Basin." [The Basin]
  
 Already the campfire artists had got together, and, to mark the occasion of this first carnival, had arranged to perform a play on the Saturday evening, but some of the audience, some of the players, and some of the "props", went astray on the trip out from Leumeah. Actually they reached the river below "the Basin" but, not knowing that, walked downstream for some miles, then turned round and fought their way back upstream in the dark with an unadequate number of torches, and eventually reached camp so late that the play had to be abandoned. Already the campfire artists had got together, and, to mark the occasion of this first carnival, had arranged to perform a play on the Saturday evening, but some of the audience, some of the players, and some of the "props", went astray on the trip out from Leumeah. Actually they reached the river below "the Basin" but, not knowing that, walked downstream for some miles, then turned round and fought their way back upstream in the dark with an unadequate number of torches, and eventually reached camp so late that the play had to be abandoned.
Line 279: Line 276:
 This adventure inspired the Club's first song which is republished here. It appeared previously in "The Bushwalker" for December, 1931. This adventure inspired the Club's first song which is republished here. It appeared previously in "The Bushwalker" for December, 1931.
  
-===== A BALLAD OF BUSHWALKERSBASIN ===== +===== A Ballad Of BushwalkersBasin ===== 
  
 (Tune- "Abdul the bulbul Amir.") (Tune- "Abdul the bulbul Amir.")
194010.txt · Last modified: 2015/08/11 18:08 by sbw

Donate Powered by PHP Valid HTML5 Valid CSS Driven by DokuWiki