User Tools

Site Tools


194904

Differences

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

Link to this comparison view

Both sides previous revisionPrevious revision
Next revision
Previous revision
Next revisionBoth sides next revision
194904 [2016/06/19 21:14] – [The Gruesome Twosome] kennettj194904 [2018/05/25 13:02] tyreless
Line 1: Line 1:
-**THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER**+====== The Sydney Bushwalker. ======
  
-A monthly Bulletin of matters of interest to the Sydney Bush Walkers, c/- Ingersoll Hall, 256 Crown St., Sydney.+A monthly Bulletin of matters of interest to the Sydney Bush Walkers, C/- Ingersoll Hall, 256 Crown St., Sydney.
  
-**No. 175  APRIL, 1949 Price 6d**+----
  
-|**Editor**| Alex Colley, 55 Kirribilli Ave., Milson's Point|  +=== No173. April1949. Price 6d. ===
-|**Production Asst**| Bill Gillam |  +
-|**Sales and Subs**| Helen Brook| +
-|**Production and Business Manager**| Brian Harvey | +
-|**Typed** | Jean Harvey |+
  
-**CONTENTS**+|**Editor**|Alex Colley, 55 Kirribilli Av., Milson's Point| 
 +|**Production and Business Manager**|Brian Harvey| 
 +|**Production Asst**|Bill Gillam| 
 +|**Sales and Subs**|Helen Brooks| 
 +|**Typed by**|Jean Harvey and Jessie Martin|
  
-|Editorial - The Magazine |1| 
-|At the Annual General Meeting |3| 
-|Club Officers, Committee 1949 |6 | 
-|Social Notes for April| 8| 
-|Bogong High Plains, by Edna Garrad and Dorothy Hasluck |12| 
-|Cradle Mountain Reserve, by Leon Blumer |15| 
-|Safety First in the Bush, by Jim Brown |16| 
-|The Library |16| 
-|Gossip |17| 
-|The Gruesome Twosome |18| 
-|News from the Rucksack Front (Paddy's Advt.)| | 
  
 +===== In This Issue: =====
 + 
 +| | |Page|
 +|Editorial - The Magazine| | 1|
 +|At the Annual General Meeting| | 3|
 +|Club Officers, Committee 1949| | 6|
 +|Social Notes for April| | 6|
 +|Bogong High Plains|Edna Garrad and Dorothy Hasluck| 8|
 +|Cradle Mountain Reserve|Leon Blumer|12|
 +|Safety First in the Bush|Jim Brown|15|
 +|The Library| |16|
 +|Gossip| |16|
 +|The Gruesome Twosome| |17|
  
-====== Editorial The Magazine ======+===== Advertisements: =====
  
-Perhaps only the members who work every month on the magazine realise how much voluntary effort is put into every issue. There is more than a full day'work in typing the stencils. Four or more people give an evening to duplicating and collating it.+| |Page| 
 +|News from the Rucksack Front (Paddy'Advt.)|18|
  
-There is an evening's work in addressing and posting the subscribers A copies, while subscriptions, and the clerical and other work necessary to keep the business side going take a lot of time. As +----
-an indication of that this saves subscribers we might compare the cost of the annual report, which this year was typed and duplicated by a copying firm. The annual report is a smaller job than the +
-magazine, but typing and duplicating alone cost nearly 10. Anyone with a fancy for figures could work out what the magazine would cost if everyone's time was paid for it might well cost 2/a copy.+
  
-As well as this there are the contributors, who probably put in an equal amount of time and effort. There are a number of these who, without any prompting, write up any interesting trip they do. Others dont wait till they go on a trip but send in enjoyable descriptive or humorous pieces on some topic which appeals to Club members. Two of the Club officers make a monthly report on their particular sphere of activities; Others write up little pars on the doings of members, and these are always popular with readers. +===== Editorial The Magazine=====
-All these people work willingly to produce a readable monthly magazine. When a good magazine results they feel that their efforts have been worth while. But though a lot of good articles appear in the magazine many of them good by any standard - the magazine is not what it could be. Sometimes it is good, often it is mediocre, occasionally it is short and dull.+
  
-But there is no reason why it should not be consistently good. There are number of ways in which it could be improvedIt could be made much more informativeWalks leadersfor instancehave frequently been invited to publicise and describe any interesting official or other walk they are going to lead. Very few do, even when asked. Club officers have been invited to make full use of these pages for announcements or information. Most of them still pass their messages round verbally. People who want to make improvements or changes in club organisation have been invited to express opinions, but either they don't have any opinions or they can't be bothered writing them down. Conservationists have been invited to give us the benefit of their views and knowledgeMost of them leave it to the editor. But the worst of the lot are that happy band who have the education and the ability to write up trips and incidents but never do soThey read all about the trips others have donespend weeks planning and preparing to go to the places they have read about, but never, by any chance, let others have the benefit of their own experienceThey read with interest the happenings, humorous instructive or even unfortunate, on other persons trips, but make not the slightest effort to contribute anything of interest they know themselves. This is just plain selfishness+Perhaps only the members who work every month on the magazine realise how much voluntary effort is put into every issue. There is more than full day's work in typing the stencilsFour or more people give an evening to duplicating and collating itThere is an evening's work in addressing and posting the subscribers' copieswhile subscriptions, and the clerical and other work necessary to keep the business side going take a lot of timeAs an indication of what this saves subscribers we might compare the cost of the annual report, which this year was typed and duplicated by a copying firmThe annual report is a smaller job than the magazinebut typing and duplicating alone cost nearly £10Anyone with a fancy for figures could work out what the magazine would cost if everyone's time was paid for - it might well cost 2/- a copy.
  
-Another class are those who are "too busy". If they are honest about it they would admit the truthwhich is that they would rather be doing something elseMany of these people have more than average education and abilitybut they gain just as much from the magazine as any others and should be prepared to let fellow members have the benefit of their knowledgeForthwith business will not be accepted as an excuse. Time could not be spent better than in writing for the magazinewhich is closely read by some 200 people with a common interest in walking.+As well as this there are the contributorswho probably put in an equal amount of time and effortThere are a number of these whowithout any prompting, write up any interesting trip they do. Others don't wait till they go on a trip but send in enjoyable descriptive or humorous pieces on some topic which appeals to Club members. Two of the Club officers make a monthly report on their particular sphere of activitiesOthers write up little pars on the doings of membersand these are always popular with readers.
  
-Financially the magazine is doing reasonably wellIt can make available to contributors complete range of reproduction. Maps, pen drawings and diagrams have often been reproducedAnyone can draw or trace map to describe their trip. It doesn't matter if the map is not well drawn, or the printing not neat, so long as it is plain, and the proportions right, it can be redone by a professional tracer and come out like the maps already printed. Whether contributors assume that people know the places where they have beenor whether they are not game to try their hand at mapping questionable, but many articles on walks are ever so much clearer to follow with the aid of a map. The magazine can now publish photographs too occasionally. A page containing one or more photographs will cost a little over a. Should anyone like to contribute the photographs and bear half the cost we would be only too pleased at any time to find the other half of the cost and have them published.+All these people work willingly to produce a readable monthly magazine. When good magazine results they feel that their efforts have been worth whileBut though lot of good articles appear in the magazine - many of them good by any standard - the magazine is not what it could be. Sometimes it is goodoften it is mediocre, occasionally it is short and dull.
  
-The magazine staff offer you all the facilities necessary for a good publication. There is plenty of literary scientific and artistic talent in the club. We urge everybody who has anything worth while to contribute to make the effort, so that we will have magazine that is consistently first rate.+But there is no reason why it should not be consistently good. There are a number of ways in which it could be improved. It could be made much more informative. Walks leaders, for instance, have frequently been invited to publicise and describe any interesting official or other walk they are going to lead. Very few do, even when asked. Club officers have been invited to make full use of these pages for announcements or information. Most of them still pass their messages round verbally. People who want to make improvements or changes in club organisation have been invited to express opinions, but either they don't have any opinions or they can't be bothered writing them downConservationists have been invited to give us the benefit of their views and knowledge. Most of them leave it to the editor. But the worst of the lot are that happy band who have the education and the ability to write up trips and incidents but never do so. They read all about the trips others have done, spend weeks planning and preparing to go to the places they have read about, but never, by any chance, let others have the benefit of their own experience. They read with interest the happenings, humorous instructive or even unfortunate, on other persons trips, but make not the slightest effort to contribute anything of interest they know themselves. This is just plain selfishness. Another class are those who are "too busy". If they are honest about it they would admit the truthwhich is that they would rather be doing something else. Many of these people have more than average education and ability, but they gain just as much from the magazine as any others and should be prepared to let fellow members have the benefit of their knowledge. Forthwith business will not be accepted as an excuse. Time could not be spent better than in writing for the magazine, which is closely read by some 200 people with a common interest in walking.
  
-In conclusion we remind contributors that the magazine is published an Committee nights - i ethe first Friday of every month (unless it is holiday weekend)Articles may be accepted up till the last Friday of the previous month - but please don'leave them till the last day if you can help it. Mapsdrawingsetc. nay be accepted up till fortnight before publication, and photographs up till three weeks beforehand.+Financially the magazine is doing reasonably wellIt can make available to contributors a complete range of reproduction. Maps, pen drawings and diagrams have often been reproduced. Anyone can draw or trace map to describe their tripIt doesn'matter if the map is not well drawn, or the printing not neat, so long as it is plainand the proportions rightit can be redone by professional tracer and come out like the maps already printed. Whether contributors assume that people know the places where they have been, or whether they are not game to try their hand at mapping questionable, but many articles on walks are ever so much clearer to follow with the aid of a map. The magazine can now publish photographs too occasionally. A page containing one or more photographs will cost a little over £2. Should anyone like to contribute the photographs and bear half the cost we would be only too pleased at any time to find the other half of the cost and have them published.
  
 +The magazine staff offer you all the facilities necessary for a good publication. There is plenty of literary scientific and artistic talent in the club. We urge everybody who has anything worth while to contribute to make the effort, so that we will have a magazine that is consistently first rate.
  
-====== At The Annual General Meeting ======+In conclusion we remind contributors that the magazine is published an Committee nights - i.e. the first Friday of every month (unless it is a holiday weekend). Articles may be accepted up till the last Friday of the previous month - but please don't leave them till the last day if you can help it. Maps, drawings, etc. may be accepted up till a fortnight before publication, and photographs up till three weeks beforehand. 
 + 
 +===== At The Annual General Meeting=====
  
 by Jim Brown by Jim Brown
Line 56: Line 59:
 Four new members, Misses Pat Newnan and Molly Gallard, and Messrs. Roy Bruggy and Jack Perry were first welcomed, and the social round continued with the presentation of trophies and championship cards to the winners in the Swimming Carnival. Gwen Jewell featured with the collection of the Henley Trophy and a half share with Kevin Ardill in the Mandelburg Cup. Vera Matasin and Eric Pegram appeared several times at the chair to collect cards. Four new members, Misses Pat Newnan and Molly Gallard, and Messrs. Roy Bruggy and Jack Perry were first welcomed, and the social round continued with the presentation of trophies and championship cards to the winners in the Swimming Carnival. Gwen Jewell featured with the collection of the Henley Trophy and a half share with Kevin Ardill in the Mandelburg Cup. Vera Matasin and Eric Pegram appeared several times at the chair to collect cards.
  
-It was announced that a telegram from Dorothy Lawry, a letter from Joe Turner and a phone call from Frank Duncan had been received, all wishing the Club a successful meeting and reunion. After which we descended from the high spiritual plane to mundane business. Filthy lucre was represented early in our descent with Gil Webb's motion that the Treasurer be instructed to place £210 of reserve funds in the Seventh Security Loan, with the notion of easy pickings 3-1-% interest instead of 1% as a bank deposit. This was opposed by the retiring Treasurer on sundry grounds, but the motion was carried, and Gil Webb, as successor to the Club purse, will have the satisfaction of being instructed to nurse his own brain child.+It was announced that a telegram from Dorothy Lawry, a letter from Joe Turner and a phone call from Frank Duncan had been received, all wishing the Club a successful meeting and reunion. After which we descended from the high spiritual plane to mundane business. Filthy lucre was represented early in our descent with Gil Webb's motion that the Treasurer be instructed to place £210 of reserve funds in the Seventh Security Loan, with the notion of easy pickings - 1/8% interest instead of 1 1/4% as a bank deposit. This was opposed by the retiring Treasurer on sundry grounds, but the motion was carried, and Gil Webb, as successor to the Club purse, will have the satisfaction of being instructed to nurse his own brain child.
  
 Suspension of standing orders was carried to permit the election of office bearers to proceed during the execution of other business, and Ruby Payne-Scott, Ray Kirkby, Kevin Deane and Alan Strom appointed scrutineers. The President, Tom Moppett, was promptly elected unopposed, and the remainder of the office bearers elected are mentioned below. Suspension of standing orders was carried to permit the election of office bearers to proceed during the execution of other business, and Ruby Payne-Scott, Ray Kirkby, Kevin Deane and Alan Strom appointed scrutineers. The President, Tom Moppett, was promptly elected unopposed, and the remainder of the office bearers elected are mentioned below.
Line 71: Line 74:
  
 Joe Turner's letter was read, and regret was expressed at the death of Cliff Moseley of Point Lookout in the New England National Park. It was resolved to transfer his honorary membership to Mrs. Moseley. Joe Turner's letter was read, and regret was expressed at the death of Cliff Moseley of Point Lookout in the New England National Park. It was resolved to transfer his honorary membership to Mrs. Moseley.
-So far the debate, though often spirited, had been affable and conducted on a distinctly intellectual plane. It was not until after Renee Brown moved that the Annual Re-Union be postponed that it descended to the level of "parliamentary procedure". Renee supported her motion by pointing out that the Re-Union was largely for the benefit of old members and mothers with children. It had been raining for weeks, and even if it did clear up the ground was thoroughly soaked and would be too wet for the old members to camp on. In the uproar which ensued the President must have felt thankful that his calls for order were preceded by the clanging of his presentation gong rather than the gentle knocking of the bone. Many times the gong penetrated the hubbub and restored order, if not tranquillity. In one such interval Dormie was heard to whisper loudly that there hadn't been much rain in the Liverpool area. Gil Webb wondered if the weather may not be just as bad three weeks hence and to a suggestion that the river may be too high for fording, Roley Cotter argued that there was a satisfactory camp site on the west bank. Frank Cramp commented that he, for one would not take his family out in the downpour, and Bill Gillam asked what about the foodstuffs bought for the affair. Bill Hall thought the only actual loss might be the fruit cake, value of about £2. 
  
-Up to this stage the newer members and younger types had been like stout Cortez's men"'gazing at each other with wild surmise... silent". The battle had been between the old hands but here Phil Hall interposed note of sweet reasonablenessHe was willing to go if the Re-Union was held, he saidbut it would not be a satisfactory Re-union without the older members and the childrenThe motion was carried by approximately two to one in favour+So far the debate, though often spirited, had been affable and conducted on distinctly intellectual planeIt was not until after Renee Brown moved that the Annual Re-Union be postponed that it descended to the level of "parliamentary procedure". Renee supported her motion by pointing out that the Re-Union was largely for the benefit of old members and mothers with children. It had been raining for weeksand even if it did clear up the ground was thoroughly soaked and would be too wet for the old members to camp on. In the uproar which ensued the President must have felt thankful that his calls for order were preceded by the clanging of his presentation gong rather than the gentle knocking of the boneMany times the gong penetrated the hubbub and restored order, if not tranquillity. In one such interval Dormie was heard to whisper loudly that there hadn't been much rain in the Liverpool area. Gil Webb wondered if the weather may not be just as bad three weeks hence and to a suggestion that the river may be too high for fording, Roley Cotter argued that there was a satisfactory camp site on the west bank. Frank Cramp commented that he, for one, would not take his family out in the downpour, and Bill Gillam asked what about the foodstuffs bought for the affair. Bill Hall thought the only actual loss might be the fruit cake, value of about £2.
  
-Now two other motion's stemmed from the first: one, to the effect that the news of the postponement be broadcast was not well received and was lost - "Oh, for the shame of it all" was the tenor of the opposition. Alan Wyborn foreshadowed a motion to re-design the Club badge as a pansy. The second motion, that leaders of walks on the week-end 1/2/3 April be permitted to lead their trips if agreeable (in opposition to the Re-Union) was overwhelmingly lost.+Up to this stage the newer members and younger types had been like stout Cortez's men, "gazing at each other with wild surmise... silent...". The battle had been between the old hands but here Phil Hall interposed a note of sweet reasonableness. He was willing to go if the Re-Union was held, he said, but it would not be a satisfactory Re-union without the older members and the children. The motion was carried by approximately two to one in favour.  
 + 
 +Now two other motion's stemmed from the first: one, to the effect that the news of the postponement be broadcast was not well received and was lost - "Oh, for the shame of it!" was the tenor of the opposition. Alan Wyborn foreshadowed a motion to re-design the Club badge as a pansy. The second motion, that leaders of walks on the week-end 1/2/3 April be permitted to lead their trips if agreeable (in opposition to the Re-Union) was overwhelmingly lost.
  
 At this stage, large numbers of members began to vanish from the meeting, which was hurriedly brought to a close at 11.5 p m. after a decision to have notices posted at Liverpool and Macquarie Fields Stations. At this stage, large numbers of members began to vanish from the meeting, which was hurriedly brought to a close at 11.5 p m. after a decision to have notices posted at Liverpool and Macquarie Fields Stations.
  
 +----
  
-FACILITIES THE HOTEL & CHALETMTKOSCIUSKO+=== Facilities The Hotel and ChaletMtKosciusko===
  
-By courtesy of the Federation of the supplement concerning facilities available to walkers in the Kosciusko region is forwarded with this magazine for the information of members intending +By courtesy of the Federation of the supplement concerning facilities available to walkers in the Kosciusko region is forwarded with this magazine for the information of members intending visiting this interesting area. We hope members will pay heed to the requests of the Chalet management.
-visiting this interesting area. We hope members will pay heed to the requests of the Chalet management.+
  
-FEDERATION ANNUAL. Laurie Rayner advises that contributions are invited to the new Federation magazine; articles, photos, reports, etc.+=== Federation Annual===
  
 +Laurie Rayner advises that contributions are invited to the new Federation magazine; articles, photos, reports, etc.
  
-====== Election of Officers and Committee 1949 ======+---- 
 + 
 +===== Election Of Officers And Committee 1949=====
    
 The following were elected at the Annual General Meeting. The following were elected at the Annual General Meeting.
  
-PRESIDENT: Mr. T. Moppett\\ +|**President**|Mr. T. Moppett| 
-VICE PRESIDENTS: Mr. A Colley: Mr. R. Cotter\\ +|**Vice Presidents**|Mr. A Colley: Mr. R. Cotter| 
-HONSECRETARY: Miss H Galliott\\ +|**HonSecretary**|Miss H Galliott| 
-ASSTSECRETARY: Miss D. Harris\\ +|**AsstSecretary**|Miss D. Harris| 
-TREASURER: Mr. G. Webb\\ +|**Treasurer**|Mr. G. Webb| 
-WALKS SECRETARY: Mr E. Pegram.\\ +|**Walks Secretary**|Mr E. Pegram| 
-MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY : J. Bransdon.\\ +|**Membership Sectretary**|J. Bransdon| 
-SOCIAL SECRETARY: Miss E. Stretton \\ +|**Social Secretary**|Miss E. Stretton| 
-COMMITTEE:(Lady Members) Miss B. HurleyMiss K. Hardy, (Male Members) Mr. K. ArdillMr. J. Brown\\  +|**Committee**|(Lady Members) Miss B. HurleyMiss K. Hardy, (Male Members) Mr. K. ArdillMr. J. Brown| 
-FEDERATION DELEGATES : FROM 1/8/1949Mr. W. HallMr. B. Harvey\\ +|**Federation Delegates** from 1/8/1949|Mr. W. HallMr. B. HarveyMr. P. BarnesMr. A. Strom.
-Mr. P. BarnesMr. A. Strom. (Selection of two Federation Delegates to sit on Committee from 1/8/49 was deferred until it could be ascertained which members would be available.) +| |(Selection of two Federation Delegates to sit on Committee from 1/8/49 was deferred until it could be ascertained which members would be available.)| 
-FEDERATION DELEGATE to 31/7/49 (vice Mr. Wren):  W. Hall. \\ +|**Federation Delegate** 31/7/49 (vice Mr. Wren)|W. Hall| 
-FEDERATION DELEGATES, to sit on Committee to 31/7/49 (2) : Mr. L. RaynerW. Hall.\\ +|**Federatoin Delegates,** to sit on Committee to 31/7/49|Mr. L. RaynerW. Hall| 
-SUBSTITUTE FEDERATION DELEGATES from 1/8/49: , Miss D. HarrisMr. J. Noble.\\ +|**Substitute Federation Delegates** from 1/8/49|Miss D. HarrisMr. J. Noble| 
-LITERARY EDITOR: Mr. A. Colley.\\ +|**literary Editor**|Mr. A. Colley| 
-BUSINESS MANAGERMAGAZINE: Mr. B. Harvey. \\ +|**Business ManagerMagazine**|Mr. B. Harvey| 
-PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS DELEGATE: Mrs. H. Stoddart.\\  +|**Parks and Playgrounds Delegate**|Mrs. H. Stoddart| 
-TRUSTEES: Mr. W.RootsMr. J.V. TurnerMr. M. Berry \\ +|**Trustees**|Mr. W.RootsMr. J.V. TurnerMr. M. Berry| 
-AUDITOR: Mr. C. Haines \\ +|**Auditor**|Mr. C. Haines| 
-SOLICITOR: Miss M. Byles \\ +|**Solicitor**|Miss M. Byles| 
-FORESTRY ADVISORY COUNCIL DELEGATE: Mr. A. Wyborn+|**Forestry Advisory Councl Delegate**|Mr. A. Wyborn|
  
-====== Social Notes for April ======+----
  
 +===== Social Notes For April. =====
  
 With Easter and Anzac Week-ends falling this month, there remains only one night for social activities. That is on 29th. A lecture lined up for that night - "Geology and the Bushwalkers" - to be presented by Allen Strom. With Easter and Anzac Week-ends falling this month, there remains only one night for social activities. That is on 29th. A lecture lined up for that night - "Geology and the Bushwalkers" - to be presented by Allen Strom.
  
-Would you like to have a big "do" round about July? Could hire a suitable hall and really go to town. Think about it and let me have your answer at the next general meeting.\\ +Would you like to have a big "do" round about July? Could hire a suitable hall and really go to town. Think about it and let me have your answer at the next general meeting. 
-Edna Stretton,\\ + 
-Social Secretary.+Edna Stretton, Social Secretary. 
 + 
 +----
  
 The large official party to Blue Gum on the 19/20th March enjoyed the Forest at its best. The trees as lovely as ever, the forest carpeted with maiden hair, and the Grose flowing freely.  The large official party to Blue Gum on the 19/20th March enjoyed the Forest at its best. The trees as lovely as ever, the forest carpeted with maiden hair, and the Grose flowing freely. 
  
 +----
 +
 +[Plaque: In memory of bushwalkers who fell in World War II. Their splendour shall never fade.]
 +
 +They shall grow not old as we that are left grow old.\\
 +Age shall not weary them nor the years condemn.\\
 +At the goind down of the sund, and in the morning,\\
 +We shall remember them.
 +
 +----
 +
 +===== Impressions Of A Trip To The Bogong High Plains. =====
  
-====== Impressions of a Trip To The Bogong High Plains ======+==== Part I. ====
  
-PART 1\\ 
 by E. Garrad. by E. Garrad.
  
-After sitting up all night in the Melbourne express and motoring all morning, we were rather weary on arrival at Diamantina Hut. There were, however, two things immediately to cheer us. The first was the view of Mount Buffalo. The distinctive silhouette of this mountain with the Hump, The Cathedral and MountAnderson standing clear against the sky, haunted us all through the trip, end for the two days at Diamantina we found ourselves racing out to gaze across the valleys in the sunrise and again at sunset. The effect light and colour among the intervening ridges, with black and blue shadows, the brilliant sky and Mount Buffalo, were glorious. The second item of cheer was to find service type mattresses to put on the bunks. We hardly needed them to ensure sound sleep, but they were an unexpected comfort.+After sitting up all night in the Melbourne express and motoring all morning, we were rather weary on arrival at Diamantina Hut. There were, however, two things immediately to cheer us. The first was the view of Mount Buffalo. The distinctive silhouette of this mountain with the Hump, The Cathedral and Mount Anderson standing clear against the sky, haunted us all through the trip, and for the two days at Diamantina we found ourselves racing out to gaze across the valleys in the sunrise and again at sunset. The effect light and colour among the intervening ridges, with black and blue shadows, the brilliant sky and Mount Buffalo, were glorious. The second item of cheer was to find service type mattresses to put on the bunks. We hardly needed them to ensure sound sleep, but they were an unexpected comfort.
  
-M. Hotham was disappointing. It is very bleak and the ridges covered with dead trees (from the 1939 fires) are somewhat depressing. You do get extensive views from the trig and a good idea of the layout of the area. In some lights even the dead trees have a peculiar scenic beauty, but more generally they are just a sad sight. +Mt. Hotham was disappointing. It is very bleak and the ridges covered with dead trees (from the 1939 fires) are somewhat depressing. You do get extensive views from the trig and a good idea of the layout of the area. In some lights even the dead trees have a peculiar scenic beauty, but more generally they are just a sad sight. 
  
-The weather was glorious and an each of the ten or eleven points we visited - all over 6,000 feet - we  +The weather was glorious and on each of the ten or eleven points we visited - all over 6,000 feet - we were rewarded with fine views.
-were rewarded with fine views.+
  
-On Mt. Mackay we found a fire watcher, in his little cabin surrounded by glass windows. The Victorian State Electricity Commission employs him. We were very interested in a map just completed by the Commission - on which by the way a correct survey has proved most of the peaks higher then shown on the available maps - and had grand views of a panoramic nature aided by his field glasses.+On Mt. Mackay we found a fire watcher, in his little cabin surrounded by glass windows. The Victorian State Electricity Commission employs him. We were very interested in a map just completed by the Commission - on which by the way a correct survey has proved most of the peaks higher than shown on the available maps - and had grand views of a panoramic nature aided by his field glasses.
  
-For the benefit of those who do not know the area at all, these "mountains" do not entail any climbing as we think of the word. You are up on the high plains and the tops simply rise out of the plains, or else you walk out along ridges with beautiful views on either side, and in the case of Feathertop and fainter tracks lead you almost to the trigs. Mt. Bogong was the exception end after dropping about 1000 feet from Roper Hut you rise about 2,500 on to the mountain to the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut, and from there the Summit is a couple of miles away and, I think, 700 feet higher. Many times we dropped our packs beside the track and wandered off to visit a trig. We also made base camps here and there - Diamantina, Tawonga, Cope, etc. - and did a tremendous lot of walking without packs. For the "not so tigerish" that is the ideal.+For the benefit of those who do not know the area at all, these "mountains" do not entail any climbing as we think of the word. You are up on the high plains and the tops simply rise out of the plains, or else you walk out along ridges with beautiful views on either side, and in the case of Feathertop and Fainter tracks lead you almost to the trigs. Mt. Bogong was the exception and after dropping about 1000 feet from Roper Hut you rise about 2,500on to the mountain to the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut, and from there the Summit is a couple of miles away and, I think, 700 feet higher. Many times we dropped our packs beside the track and wandered off to visit a trig. We also made base camps here and there - Diamantina, Tawonga, Cope, etc. - and did a tremendous lot of walking without packs. For the "not so tigerish" that is the ideal!
  
-Views are extensive - away to Kosciusko and the Cobberas, Mount Wellington end lots of other peaks, and, down the valleys to the Ovens, Kiewa end other rivers. On,the High Plains, in Pretty Valley and Rocky Valley, are fast running little streams which wind their tortuous way between the brilliant green mossesand low growing alpine type plants.+Views are extensive - away to Kosciusko and the Cobberas, Mount Wellington and lots of other peaks, and, down the valleys to the Ovens, Kiewa end other rivers. On the High Plains, in Pretty Valley and Rocky Valley, are fast running little streams which wind their tortuous way between the brilliant green mosses and low growing alpine type plants.
  
 One of our most delightful camps was at Tawonga Hut. We pitched our tents in front of the hut, among snow gums on a grassy bank, with a lovely stream racing by. We were encircled by grassy hills on which the cattle grazed. One of our most delightful camps was at Tawonga Hut. We pitched our tents in front of the hut, among snow gums on a grassy bank, with a lovely stream racing by. We were encircled by grassy hills on which the cattle grazed.
Line 149: Line 168:
 We were rather interested in the activities of the ski clubs in regard to their huts. Obviously, they have a more sympathetic Government Department in Victoria and are able to obtain the necessary materials - the club members supplying the labour. A group of University boys were building a hut at Hotham - the lower half of local stone. Near Cope Hut the Victorian Ski club have taken over the disused S.E.C. cottage and with renovations now in progress it will be an excellent ski hut. Provision for about ten bunks, kitchen with fuel stove, bathroom with bath and inside lavatory, common room with lovely stone fireplace and a tank inserted to provide a hot water service. On Mount Bogong we found Skippy and Tony Beveridge (other Bushwalkers have met this cheery pair) who with the aid of Mr. Beveridge Senior were re-erecting the Summit Hut which had been demolished by the snow last year. It looked quite a job and they were working hard. Johnston's Hut near Mount Nelson has been taken over by a local ski club, so don't race there in bad weather expecting shelter, as it is locked. You would have to sit up all night on the porch! There is very pleasant camping among small trees in the vicinity of this hut with a grand view across to Mt. Wills. We were rather interested in the activities of the ski clubs in regard to their huts. Obviously, they have a more sympathetic Government Department in Victoria and are able to obtain the necessary materials - the club members supplying the labour. A group of University boys were building a hut at Hotham - the lower half of local stone. Near Cope Hut the Victorian Ski club have taken over the disused S.E.C. cottage and with renovations now in progress it will be an excellent ski hut. Provision for about ten bunks, kitchen with fuel stove, bathroom with bath and inside lavatory, common room with lovely stone fireplace and a tank inserted to provide a hot water service. On Mount Bogong we found Skippy and Tony Beveridge (other Bushwalkers have met this cheery pair) who with the aid of Mr. Beveridge Senior were re-erecting the Summit Hut which had been demolished by the snow last year. It looked quite a job and they were working hard. Johnston's Hut near Mount Nelson has been taken over by a local ski club, so don't race there in bad weather expecting shelter, as it is locked. You would have to sit up all night on the porch! There is very pleasant camping among small trees in the vicinity of this hut with a grand view across to Mt. Wills.
  
-In conclusion I would strongly recommend parties to follow our itinerary in taking a car to Hotham, rather than climbing up from Harrietville to Feathertop, as so many parties do, carrying heavypacks and starting your holiday so weary that most of the savour goes out of your first week. Also our leader (Harry Ellis) organised so that we collected food at Rocky Valley for the second week. A good thing.+In conclusion I would strongly recommend parties to follow our itinerary in taking a car to Hotham, rather than climbing up from Harrietville to Feathertop, as so many parties do, carrying heavy packs and starting your holiday so weary that most of the savour goes out of your first week. Also our leader (Harry Ellis) organised so that we collected food at Rocky Valley for the second week. A good thing.
  
-PART II.+==== Part II. ====
  
 By Dorothy Hasluck.  By Dorothy Hasluck. 
Line 157: Line 176:
 The warmest day of the trip dawned as I rose at 5.30 and, stepping over the prone bodies of two University boys who had joined us the night before, proceeded to make the morning tea. The said boys having refused my tent, thinking it would be too cold, had spent a miserable night on the earth floor and were not feeling the best for the three or four hours climb before us. However after some tea and breakfast life assumed a less doleful aspect and Bob, who was a bright type, became his own chirpy self. The warmest day of the trip dawned as I rose at 5.30 and, stepping over the prone bodies of two University boys who had joined us the night before, proceeded to make the morning tea. The said boys having refused my tent, thinking it would be too cold, had spent a miserable night on the earth floor and were not feeling the best for the three or four hours climb before us. However after some tea and breakfast life assumed a less doleful aspect and Bob, who was a bright type, became his own chirpy self.
  
-It was a lovely morning and the change that had been predicted by some stockman seemed most unlikely as we set off down the ridge to the Big River. The track was well graded making it an enjoyable descent, through some lovely timber. In view of the long hot climb Edna and I decided to have a dip. Then the photographers decided they wanted some snaps first, so after much arranging and altering of positions, we getting colder and colder, our plunge was achieved and we were well and truly cooled down when we emerged from the icy water's. Passing an old campsite we started up the spur. We had considered camping on the river instead of at Ropers Hut but on looking down from Tim's Lookout it looked so precipitous that we doubted whether we would find a flat space to camp. And so it proved except for this one delightful spot across the river. The sun blazed down on the ridge and there was no breeze just as we could have done with it, high winds having prevailed most of the time previously. However we came in sight of the waterfall much sooner than we expected, having been told it was a four hour climb. The creek next appeared and after copious draughts of water we proceeded up the valley to the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut set amidst trees at the head of the valley. It was charming, built of stone of the loveliest colours; a shower, which was operated by a pump, was a decided asset. The bunks were long shelves from wall to wall the width and the length of one's body.  +It was a lovely morning and the change that had been predicted by some stockman seemed most unlikely as we set off down the ridge to the Big River. The track was well graded making it an enjoyable descent, through some lovely timber. In view of the long hot climb Edna and I decided to have a dip. Then the photographers decided they wanted some snaps first, so after much arranging and altering of positions, we getting colder and colder, our plunge was achieved and we were well and truly cooled down when we emerged from the icy waters. Passing an old campsite we started up the "T" spur. We had considered camping on the river instead of at Ropers Hut but on looking down from Tim's Lookout it looked so precipitous that we doubted whether we would find a flat space to camp. And so it proved except for this one delightful spot across the river. The sun blazed down on the ridge and there was no breeze just as we could have done with it, high winds having prevailed most of the time previously. However we came in sight of the waterfall much sooner than we expected, having been told it was a four hour climb. The creek next appeared and after copious draughts of water we proceeded up the valley to the Cleve Cole Memorial Hut set amidst trees at the head of the valley. It was charming, built of stone of the loveliest colours; a shower, which was operated by a pump, was a decided asset. The bunks were long shelves from wall to wall the width and the length of one's body. Finding the hut was already occupied the four of us decided to camp out, and just as well, as two men arrived at night and another two in the middle of the night, making 13 in all, although, according to records in the visitors' books, that is nothing to what they pack in at times. The two former men we had seen in the distance the day before going on to Tim's Ridge. In the interim they had lost themselves and had a really gruelling time. The previous occupants proved to be Skippy and her husband and his father, who were rebuilding the Summit Hut. We had seen her name a lot in the various books and came to the conclusion she spent most of her time on the Alps. She wished to be remembered to Roley and party, Roley particularly having endeared himself to her by damper making (or was it scones?).
- +
-Finding the hut was already occupied the four of us decided to camp out, and just as well, as two men arrived at night and another two in the middle of the night, making 13 in all, although, according to records in the visitors' books, that is nothing to what they pack in at times. The two former men we had seen in the distance the day before going on to Tim's Ridge. In the interim they had lost themselves and had a really gruelling time. The previous occupants proved to be Skippy and her husband and his father, who were rebuilding the Summit Hut. We had seen her name a lot in the various books and came to the conclusion she spent most of her time on the Alps. She wished to be remembered to Roley and party, Roley particularly having endeared himself to her by damper making (or was it scones?).+
  
 Next morning we woke, alas, to the dismal sound of rain. This was most unpropitious as we were looking forward to glorious views from High Bogong (6,500 feet). I thought the weather Gods had behaved rather capriciously. It should have come on one of the rest days. A thick mist finally developed, blotting out everything, so we went by the snow poles and decided to cut out West Peak, having been warned of the danger in a mist. Still, when we reached the cairn the Gods relented a trifle, and lifting the veil for a few minutes, flung their scarves of grey over deep ravine and narrow cleft, revealing enchanting views of the valley thousands of feet below. One seemed to be in a high remote land enclosed from the rest of the world. Next morning we woke, alas, to the dismal sound of rain. This was most unpropitious as we were looking forward to glorious views from High Bogong (6,500 feet). I thought the weather Gods had behaved rather capriciously. It should have come on one of the rest days. A thick mist finally developed, blotting out everything, so we went by the snow poles and decided to cut out West Peak, having been warned of the danger in a mist. Still, when we reached the cairn the Gods relented a trifle, and lifting the veil for a few minutes, flung their scarves of grey over deep ravine and narrow cleft, revealing enchanting views of the valley thousands of feet below. One seemed to be in a high remote land enclosed from the rest of the world.
  
-The staircase - ourway of descent - was a steep bare rocky ridge to Bivouac hut but from then on it was timbered with some magnificent trees. The scent of the blue gums rose like incense carrying such an essence of healing and health that I felt I would like to go on being bathed in it for over. I couldn't help wondering how much of all the beautiful bush we had seen would still be there in 50 years time. On the way down we met the packers who were taking materials to the Summit Hut. One is generally known as Frankie Sinatra due to his singing (or should I say crooning) abilities. They said we might use their camp for lunch, for which we were very thankful on account of the rain, and a merry lunch was enjoyed to +The staircase - our way of descent - was a steep bare rocky ridge to Bivouac hutbut from then on it was timbered with some magnificent trees. The scent of the blue gums rose like incense carrying such an essence of healing and health that I felt I would like to go on being bathed in it for over. I couldn't help wondering how much of all the beautiful bush we had seen would still be there in 50 years time. On the way down we met the packers who were taking materials to the Summit Hut. One is generally known as Frankie Sinatra due to his singing (or should I say crooning) abilities. They said we might use their camp for lunch, for which we were very thankful on account of the rain, and a merry lunch was enjoyed to the accompaniment of a few tit-bits read out of "Man" by Bob!!
-the accompaniment of a few tit-bits read out of "Man" by Bob.+
  
-Now we were on the way to Roper's Hut the second, with a mountain creek threading its way through the forest and companionably crossing the road many times as much as to say here I am again. By +Now we were on the way to Roper's Hut the second, with a mountain creek threading its way through the forest and companionably crossing the road many times as much as to say "Well, here I am again". By now we had walked out of the rain. We arrived at the end of the ridge where we thought the hut should be but there was no sign of it. However, Harry, with true intuition, turned off the road and crossed a creek and there in the distance was our refuge, and refuge it proved to be, for a perfect deluge descended in the night. But, in spite of a few discrepancies in the walls, we were quite dry and snug. The boys had gone on, having bade us goodbye for the third, or was it the fourth time. Morning dawned very watery and the creek had risen considerably so I thought I would cross on a narrow slippery log by straddling it; not so easy I found - what with my pack swaying and overbalancing me, a nasty spike to manouvre over, and some interfering thorn branches to negotiate I nearly had an unwanted cold bath. However between spasms of laughter and with encouraging words from Ed and Marion I managed to make the grade and we wended our way to Tawonga. After a dinner at the hotel - I wouldn't say a hearty one - we decided to go to Bogong as our bus for Albury did not leave till 5 p.m. The bus traverses the gorges of the Kiewa River, passing Mt. Beauty township, which is still in the course of construction. As one rises into the mountains the views are magnificent, reminding me of the Otira Gorge in New Zealand. One looks down hundreds of feet to the river threading its way like a silver ribbon through the mazes of green; one is lost in admiration at the work of the engineers in bridging those immense gorges with the power lines flung as it were from cliff to cliff. Suddenly as we came round a bend the little township of Bogong burst upon our gaze, a perfect little gem nestling in the mountain about 2,000 feet above sea level. There not being much flat ground it has all been terraced and this enhances the aspect of the green-roofed prefabricated cottages. To the right is a large lake which has been dammed up,and hillsides and spare ground have been planted with English trees. It must be a picture in the autumn. It would make a delightful tourist resort in the future, but at present the men working for the State Electricity Commission are housed there. The scheme is to cost 23 million and employs between 2,000 and 3,000 men, a very large number being at the construction camps of Rocky and Pretty Valleys. There are tremendous tunnels, concrete races are being run along near the tops of the mountain ridges to catch the snow water, many dams are being constructed and several valleys on the Alps will be flooded, thus enhancing its beauty. This all to free Victoria from the bondage of coal. What a pity our Snowy River Scheme is not as advanced.
-now we had walked out of the rain. We arrived at the end of the ridge where we thought the hut should be but there was no sign of it. However, Harry, with true intuition, turned off the road and crossed a creek and there in the distance was our refuge, and refuge it proved to be, for a perfect deluge descended in the night. But, in spite of a few discrepancies in the walls, we were quite dry and snug. The boys had gone on, having bade us goodbye for the third, or was it the fourth time. Morning dawned very watery and the creek had risen considerably so I thought I would cross on a narrow slippery log by straddling it; not so easy I found - what with my pack swaying and overbalancing me, a nasty spike to manouvre over, and some interfering thorn branches to negotiate I nearly had an unwanted cold bath. However between spasms of laughter and with encouraging words from Ed and Marion I managed to make the grade and we wended our way to Twonga. After a dinner at the hotel - I wouldn't say a hearty one - we decided to go to Bogong as our bus for Albury did not leave till 5 p n. The bus traverses the gorges of the Kiewa River, passing Mt. Beauty township, which is still in the course of construction. As one rises into the mountains the views are magnificent, reminding me of the Otira Gorge in New Zealand. One looks down hundreds of feet to the river threading its way like a silver ribbon through the mazes of green; one is lost in admiration at the work of the engineers in bridging those immense gorges with the power lines flung as it were from cliff to cliff. Suddenly as we came round a bend the little township of Bogong burst upon our gaze, a perfect little gem nestling in the mountain about 2,000 feet above sea level. There not being much flat ground it has all been terraced and this enhances the aspect of the green-roofed prefabricated cottages. To the right is a large lake which has been dammed up,and hillsides and spare ground have been planted with English trees. It must be a picture in the autumn. It would make a delightful tourist resort in the future, but at present the men working for the State Electricity Commission are housed there. The scheme is to cost 23 million and employs between 2,000 and 3,000 men, a very large number being at the construction camps of Rocky and Pretty Valleys. There are tremendous tunnels, concrete races are being run along near the tops of the mountain ridges to catch the snow water, many dams are being constructed and several valleys on the Alps will be flooded, thus enhancing its beauty. This all to free Victoria from the bondage of coal. What a pity our Snowy River Scheme is not as advanced.+
  
 Whilst walking round viewing Bogong whom should we see but Bob once more. I was really beginning to feel he belonged to us, this being our fifth farewell. I was very loath to leave this sylvan spot, especially with a night journey in the train before us, but I suppose contrast gives spice to life. Whilst walking round viewing Bogong whom should we see but Bob once more. I was really beginning to feel he belonged to us, this being our fifth farewell. I was very loath to leave this sylvan spot, especially with a night journey in the train before us, but I suppose contrast gives spice to life.
  
-====== Sloshing Through Cradle Mountain Reserve ======+----
  
-By Leon Blumer+===== Sloshing Through Cradle Mountain Reserve. =====
  
-It was on a bleak morning in the middle of December that Don Sherlock and I said goodbye to Devonport and boarded a timber truck en route to the Cradle Mountain Reserve. To us it seemed as though a new world was opening up after our easy travelling of the week before. The road winds around steeply wooded hillsides beside full streams and vivid green slopes, quite different from the heat and dryness of the 'mainland'. A bitterly cold wind was blowing, and we were glad to drop off at a timber camp and have breakfast sheltering in the bole of a burnt-out tree.+By Leon Blumer.
  
-Except for the biting wind the morning's walk was fairly uneventful. Just as we were settling down for lunch in the hole of another burnt-out tree, along came gentleman who kindly gave us a free lift to the Waldheim ChaletHe turned out to be the proprietor and we stayed the night there.+It was on a bleak morning in the middle of December that Don Sherlock and I said goodbye to Devonport and boarded timber truck en route to the Cradle Mountain Reserve. To us it seemed as though new world was opening up after our easy travelling of the week beforeThe road winds around steeply wooded hillsides beside full streams and vivid green slopes, quite different from the heat and dryness of the "mainland". A bitterly cold wind was blowing, and we were glad to drop off at a timber camp and have breakfast sheltering in the bole of a burnt-out tree.
  
-It was a shame to leave the cheery comfort of good meals of the Chalet, but the following morning found us wandering up a very wet muddy track to the higher regions. Now and then there were beautiful views of the lakes and surrounding steep cliffs and slopes. It being our first experience with snow, we spent a lot of time gambolling around on some large snow fields. We had lunch in the half-ruined hut at Devil's Kitchen, little realising that Cradle Mountain loomed above our heads. When the mists lifted enough to show us what we were missing, we shot up the sides like two mountain goats. Every now and then we were enveloped in thick driving mist but we were rewarded at the to by a beautiful panorama of the surrounding country, alpine in character and somewhat like the pictures of the English Lakes District. You look down on the different lakes 2,000 feet below, sometimes over sheer cliffs. There was a remarkably steep snow field on the other side of the Cradle and we enjoyed ourselves in an orgy of step kicking and scrambling on the vertical dolerite blocks of the main ridge. The most interesting parts of the Cradle at that time were the deep fissures and tunnels caused by the melting of the snow at the rock juncture. It is sometimes rather disconcerting to find they develop fragile snow cornices. These small "schrunds" are sometimes 20 feet deep.+Except for the biting wind the morning's walk was fairly uneventful. Just as we were settling down for lunch in the bole of another burnt-out tree, along came a gentleman who kindly gave us a free lift to the Waldheim Chalet. He turned out to be the proprietor and we stayed the night there. 
 + 
 +It was a shame to leave the cheery comfort of good meals of the Chalet, but the following morning found us wandering up a very wet muddy track to the higher regions. Now and then there were beautiful views of the lakes and surrounding steep cliffs and slopes. It being our first experience with snow, we spent a lot of time gambolling around on some large snow fields. We had lunch in the half-ruined hut at Devil's Kitchen, little realising that Cradle Mountain loomed above our heads. When the mists lifted enough to show us what we were missing, we shot up the sides like two mountain goats. Every now and then we were enveloped in thick driving mist but we were rewarded at the top by a beautiful panorama of the surrounding country, alpine in character and somewhat like the pictures of the English Lakes District. You look down on the different lakes 2,000 feet below, sometimes over sheer cliffs. There was a remarkably steep snow field on the other side of the Cradle and we enjoyed ourselves in an orgy of step kicking and scrambling on the vertical dolerite blocks of the main ridge. The most interesting parts of the Cradle at that time were the deep fissures and tunnels caused by the melting of the snow at the rock juncture. It is sometimes rather disconcerting to find they develop fragile snow cornices. These small "schrunds" are sometimes 20 feet deep.
  
 Time was pressing on, so we ran down the scree slopes, grabbed our heavy packs, and kept on slogging through the damnable button grass. Progress is made by wading through soggy mud or by jumping from tussock to tussock. It is a source of wonder to me why the Tasmanians don't develop webbed feet. After leaving the Cradle the track winds over a very exposed glacial circque to the left of the precipitous Barn Bluff and the cold wind and rain at this spot were almost unbearable. Every now and then we would pass snow drifts in the lee of the ridge right where a chap would feel like sheltering from the wind. The length of the Tasmanian mile came in for some stringent criticism. Time was pressing on, so we ran down the scree slopes, grabbed our heavy packs, and kept on slogging through the damnable button grass. Progress is made by wading through soggy mud or by jumping from tussock to tussock. It is a source of wonder to me why the Tasmanians don't develop webbed feet. After leaving the Cradle the track winds over a very exposed glacial circque to the left of the precipitous Barn Bluff and the cold wind and rain at this spot were almost unbearable. Every now and then we would pass snow drifts in the lee of the ridge right where a chap would feel like sheltering from the wind. The length of the Tasmanian mile came in for some stringent criticism.
  
-It was a pleasant feeling to reach the Windermere Hut just before dark and wearily pull off our wet clothes and boots. A four course meal soon put matters right and we were able to sit back in comfort and read the humorous doings of other poor unfortunates. Yes we read the whole lot, moans, groans and outpourings of tho soul.  Now I know what "typical Reserve weather" means. "Percy" the possum also paid us a visit during the night but I'm afraid the poor devil didn't get anything - except a boot thrown willy nilly into the darkness. Luckily for Percy he did not have to clean up the ensuing mess. +It was a pleasant feeling to reach the Windermere Hut just before dark and wearily pull off our wet clothes and boots. A four course meal soon put matters right and we were able to sit back in comfort and read the humorous doings of other poor unfortunates. Yes we read the whole lot, moans, groans and outpourings of the soul.  Now I know what "typical Reserve weather" means. "Percy" the possum also paid us a visit during the night but I'm afraid the poor devil didn't get anything - except a boot thrown willy nilly into the darkness. Luckily for Percy he did not have to clean up the ensuing mess. 
  
 The next morning threw hail, rain, sleet and snow at the hut, the most annoying part being the cooking of breakfast. While you are frying a beautiful big steak icy cold water drips down your neck from the top of the fireplace opening. The only remedy is to cook INSIDE the fireplace - from one extreme to the other. The next morning threw hail, rain, sleet and snow at the hut, the most annoying part being the cooking of breakfast. While you are frying a beautiful big steak icy cold water drips down your neck from the top of the fireplace opening. The only remedy is to cook INSIDE the fireplace - from one extreme to the other.
-After clearing the hut of a dead possum and a few other odds and ends, leeches included, we were surprised during lunch by the arrival of three Caloola Club, chaps we had met on the "Taroona". They looked very subdued, probably duo to the bad weather they had ploughed through. It appeared they had arrived in Tassy with shorts only (what amateurs!). We gaily said goodbye to them end set off with vim and vigour. 
  
-After about an hour's travelling from the hutand in very exposed position, we were struck by a severe snow storm. The ferocity. of the storm quite surprised usAt this stage shorts were still being worn and. the horizontalsleet and hail did a great deal of damage to our legs. The ground around us started to go white while we started to go blue. The icicles forming on my hat were of great amusement to Don but were a trifle too cool for comfort. Don had shown slight symptoms of malaria at the hut but had not lodged any complaint so far. We at last reached the shelter of a small wood where we thankfully changed into long trousers - beautiful warm long trousers. Our hands were so numb it took us fully twenty minutes to change and restore circulation.+After clearing the hut of a dead possum and a few other odds and ends, leeches included, we were surprised during lunch by the arrival of three Caloola Club chaps we had met on the "Taroona"They looked very subduedprobably due to the bad weather they had ploughed through. It appeared they had arrived in Tassy with shorts only (what amateurs!). We gaily said goodbye to them end set off with vim and vigour.
  
-We waited till the storm blew over then kept on going mainly on track through the myrtle forest. Frog Flatwhich is passed on the way, is aptly named - long stretch of wet sloppy mud and green turf. The rain kept pouring down, sometimes turning into snow and sleet, but the rain forest gave good shelter from the previous icy blastsEvery now and then we would walk on firm ground, which is quite an exception. The mud goes over foot deep in parts and the Tassie mile comes into its ownl'Ye were very glad to reach the Pelion Hut, do-leech ourselves, have a good meal and toast our tootsies before the fire.+After about an hour's travelling from the hut, and in very exposed positionwe were struck by severe snow storm. The ferocity of the storm quite surprised usAt this stage shorts were still being worn and the horizontal sleet and hail did a great deal of damage to our legs. The ground around us started to go white while we started to go blue. The icicles forming on my hat were of great amusement to Don but were trifle too cool for comfort. Don had shown slight symptoms of malaria at the hut but had not lodged any complaint so far. We at last reached the shelter of a small wood where we thankfully changed into long trousers - beautiful warm long trousersOur hands were so numb it took us fully twenty minutes to change and restore circulation.
  
-The Pelion Ht looks, over the button grass plains towards Mt. Oakleigh (sometimes visible through the black, rolling clouds) with grand glimpses of its snow plastered cliffs and gullies. It was now really alpine in character, so it was decided to stop at the hut for a day in the hope of climbing it. However the weather did not let up, so we shivered, slept, washed, ate, slept, ate all day long.+We waited till the storm blew over then kept on going mainly on a track through the myrtle forest. Frog Flat, which is passed on the way, is aptly named - a long stretch of wet sloppy mud and green turf. The rain kept pouring down, sometimes turning into snow and sleet, but the rain forest gave good shelter from the previous icy blasts. Every now and then we would walk on firm ground, which is quite an exception. The mud goes over a foot deep in parts and the Tassie mile comes into its own. We were very glad to reach the Pelion Hutdo-leech ourselves, have a good meal and toast our tootsies before the fire. 
 + 
 +The Pelion Hut looks over the button grass plains towards Mt. Oakleigh (sometimes visible through the black, rolling clouds) with grand glimpses of its snow plastered cliffs and gullies. It was now really alpine in character, so it was decided to stop at the hut for a day in the hope of climbing it. However the weather did not let up, so we shivered, slept, washed, ate, slept, ate all day long.
  
 The following morning the clouds and mist rolled back, the sun shone, and from then on the Reserve took on an entirely different character. We reached the Pelion Gap about lunch time and came upon a panorama of snow plastered peaks, deep blue skies, fleecy clouds and snow covered plain. It was one of the most beautiful sights we had ever seen. Everything was so clean and pure, in direct contrast to the mud and slush of the first four days. The following morning the clouds and mist rolled back, the sun shone, and from then on the Reserve took on an entirely different character. We reached the Pelion Gap about lunch time and came upon a panorama of snow plastered peaks, deep blue skies, fleecy clouds and snow covered plain. It was one of the most beautiful sights we had ever seen. Everything was so clean and pure, in direct contrast to the mud and slush of the first four days.
  
-We had lunch away from the icy wind in the shelter of some big rocks, then set-off for Mt. Ossa. It was pretty heavy going as the snow covered the heath and rocks and we would sometimes sink up to our knees. The snow glasses were very useful as the glare was quite blinding. I left Don at Mt Moris and went on alone to about 50 feet below the summit of Ossa. Therewere snow covered peaks on every side and plenty of space to admire them - Barn Huff, The Cradle, Mts. Pelion East and West, the Cathedral Range, and the exciting Du Canes - a New Zealand scene in miniature.+We had lunch away from the icy wind in the shelter of some big rocks, then set off for Mt. Ossa. It was pretty heavy going as the snow covered the heath and rocks and we would sometimes sink up to our knees. The snow glasses were very useful as the glare was quite blinding. I left Don at MtMoris and went on alone to about 50 feet below the summit of Ossa. There were snow covered peaks on every side and plenty of space to admire them - Barn Bluff, The Cradle, Mts. Pelion East and West, the Cathedral Range, and the exciting Du Canes - a New Zealand scene in miniature.
  
-Afternoon shadows gradually crept along the steep snow slopes, so with reluctance I turned back and rejoined Don. The next two hours we had views of the surrounding peaks from the middle of the valley. The Du Cane hut was at last reached and to our surprise we met Bill Pall, Ruby Payne-Scott, Arthur Gilroy and Val Hand, also three young chaps from Hobart. We spent a very pleasant night eating and making dampers etc. and left the next morning for the Narcissus Hut. The two big falls near the track were visited on the way and proved quite spectacular. It was another beautiful day, rather warm after the first part of the trip, and we took in as much sun as we could. The sheer walls of the Acropolis dominate the main part of the scenery along the track and some snow covered gullies looked very inviting, but we were racing against time. There are plenty of interesting trips for the rock experts in those regions and it is quite surprising the number of people who say the Reserve can be done in five days. Perhaps in our rush and bustle to see everything we lose the real spirit of the mountains.+Afternoon shadows gradually crept along the steep snow slopes, so with reluctance I turned back and rejoined Don. The next two hours we had views of the surrounding peaks from the middle of the valley. The Du Cane hut was at last reached and to our surprise we met Bill Hall, Ruby Payne-Scott, Arthur Gilroy and Val Hand, also three young chaps from Hobart. We spent a very pleasant night eating and making dampers etc. and left the next morning for the Narcissus Hut. The two big falls near the track were visited on the way and proved quite spectacular. It was another beautiful day, rather warm after the first part of the trip, and we took in as much sun as we could. The sheer walls of the Acropolis dominate the main part of the scenery along the track and some snow covered gullies looked very inviting, but we were racing against time. There are plenty of interesting trips for the rock experts in those regions and it is quite surprising the number of people who say the Reserve can be done in five days. Perhaps in our rush and bustle to see everything we lose the real spirit of the mountains.
    
-We reached the hut about 4 o'clock after a wearying trudge (that Tassie mile again) and were only there for a short while when a launch chugged in and offered us a lift to the other side of Lake St. Clair. Of course we couldn't refuse and so the rest of the evening was spent in a relaxed attitude admiring the view of the sun setting on the peaks, some of them seeming to come straight out of the water. As the duskbegan to fall and the outlines became less distinct we said goodbye, vowing that next trip we would spend much more time in that delightful region.+We reached the hut about 4 o'clock after a wearying trudge (that Tassie mile again) and were only there for a short while when a launch chugged in and offered us a lift to the other side of Lake St. Clair. Of course we couldn't refuse and so the rest of the evening was spent in a relaxed attitude admiring the view of the sun setting on the peaks, some of them seeming to come straight out of the water. As the dusk began to fall and the outlines became less distinct we said goodbye, vowing that next trip we would spend much more time in that delightful region. 
 + 
 +---- 
 + 
 +=== Photographic Exhibition. ===
  
 +The Photographic Exhibition Committee have invited Mr. Arthur Eadie, a successful exhibitor from the Photographic Society, to be critic and judge at our annual photographic exhibition in June.
  
-**PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION.** The Photographic Exhibition Committee havd invited Mr Arthur Eadie, a successful exhibitor from the Photographic Society, to be critic and judge at our annual photographic exhibition in June.+----
  
-====== Safety First in the Bush ======+===== Safety First In The Bush=====
  
 By Jim Brown By Jim Brown
Line 242: Line 265:
 -------- --------
  
-====== Gossip ======+===== Gossip=====
  
  
Line 256: Line 279:
  
  
-====== The Gruesome Twosome ======+===== The Gruesome Twosome=====
  
 by The Forestry Logs by The Forestry Logs
194904.txt · Last modified: 2018/05/29 13:37 by tyreless

Donate Powered by PHP Valid HTML5 Valid CSS Driven by DokuWiki