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- | AT OUR JANUARY MEETING. | + | =====At Our January Meeting.===== |
- | The January General Meeting vied with its predecessor for the doubtful virtue of the most tranquil on record. Barry Frecker was welcomed to membership, and the familiar routine of Minutes, correspondence and reports followed. The meting | + | |
+ | The January General Meeting vied with its predecessor for the doubtful virtue of the most tranquil on record. Barry Frecker was welcomed to membership, and the familiar routine of Minutes, correspondence and reports followed. The meeting | ||
The President reminded would be jugglers with the Constitution that their amendments should be to hand by the end of January if they were to be considered at the Annual General Meeting. | The President reminded would be jugglers with the Constitution that their amendments should be to hand by the end of January if they were to be considered at the Annual General Meeting. | ||
- | In stilly silence two valiant types, Roy Bruggy and Bruce McInnes succeeded to the uncherished duties of Room Stewards, and we reached the only item whih stirred the meeting, selection of the site of the Annual. Re-Union. | ||
- | There were five successful nominations, | ||
- | It was resolved that the Annual Report this year would be disguised with a cover, a: | ||
- | Brian Harvey reminded all and sundry that the annual subscription for the magazine was due, and Rene Browne added that she held a billy lost by someone at the Kiddiesi Treat. After which the meeting closed at 8.37 - about 3 minutes later than the December effort, leaving merabers to talk in large numbers instead of one at a time. | ||
- | SCCIAL NOTES FM FEBRUARY | + | In stilly silence two valiant types, Roy Bruggy and Bruce McInnes succeeded to the uncherished duties of Room Stewards, and we reached the only item which stirred the meeting, selection of the site of the Annual Re-Union. |
+ | |||
+ | There were five successful nominations, | ||
+ | |||
+ | It was resolved that the Annual Report this year would be disguised with a cover, a respectable attire similar to the magazine cover, provided that the expenditure would not exceed £4. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Brian Harvey reminded all and sundry that the annual subscription for the magazine was due, and Rene Browne added that she held a billy lost by someone at the Kiddies' | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | =====Social Notes For February.===== | ||
by Edna Stretton. | by Edna Stretton. | ||
- | The slide night o n 17th is your night. The response to a | + | |
- | similar night on a previous programme was very disappointing, | + | The slide night on 17th is your night. The response to a similar night on a previous programme was very disappointing, |
- | There will be a dance on the 24th with the usual good music, good fl oor and good fun. | + | |
+ | There will be a dance on the 24th with the usual good music, good floor and good fun. | ||
The Swimming Carnival will be held on the 18th and 19th. The camp site is a great improvement on Sandy Bend with plenty of wood and a good expanse of water. See page 19 for fall details. | The Swimming Carnival will be held on the 18th and 19th. The camp site is a great improvement on Sandy Bend with plenty of wood and a good expanse of water. See page 19 for fall details. | ||
- | - 7- | ||
- | SOME ACTIVITIES OF THE FAUNA PROTECTION PAN7,. | + | ---- |
+ | |||
+ | =====Some Activities Of The Fauna Protection Panel.===== | ||
By Allen A. Strom. | By Allen A. Strom. | ||
- | Tho Fauna Protection Act was pushed through both ' | + | |
- | The Act was gazetted on July 1st, 1949, and the Panel met for the first time a few days later when the writer represented the S.B.W. and the Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia. Since then the Panel has met at regular monthly intervals and two sub-committees (on which | + | The Fauna Protection Act was pushed through both Houses |
- | vou have representation) - one to deliberate on Koala Preservation, | + | |
- | The Panel is made up, largely, of persons representing various Governmental Departments interested in the Protection of Fauna - Education, Agriculture, | + | The Act was gazetted on July 1st, 1949, and the Panel met for the first time a few days later when the writer represented the S.B.W. and the Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia. Since then the Panel has met at regular monthly intervals and two sub-committees (on which you have representation) - one to deliberate on Koala Preservation, |
- | One should mention that Mr. E.J. Hallstrom is Deputy Chairman whilst Messrs. Kinghorn and Troughton, both of the Museum Staff and avid fighters for our Native Fauna, are members of the Panel. The Chairman | + | |
- | The first important matter that the Panel had to deliberate upon was this direction from the Premier/s Department :- | + | The Panel is made up, largely, of persons representing various Governmental Departments interested in the Protection of Fauna - Education, Agriculture, |
- | "The Premier and Colonial Treasurer desires that the question of providing Government Assistance for the development of Koala Park as a medium for the preservation of Koalas and as a tcurist | + | |
- | The special sub-committee investigated this natter | + | One should mention that Mr. E.J. Hallstrom is Deputy Chairman whilst Messrs. Kinghorn and Troughton, both of the Museum Staff and avid fighters for our Native Fauna, are members of the Panel. The Chairman |
- | regeneration :- | + | |
- | 1. A_Koal_a_ Census: has been comnenced | + | The first important matter that the Panel had to deliberate upon was this direction from the Premier's Department :- |
- | ' | + | |
- | 2. Breeding Koalas: 15r. E.J. Hallstrom has established a private | + | "The Premier and Colonial Treasurer desires that the question of providing Government Assistance for the development of Koala Park as a medium for the preservation of Koalas and as a tourist |
- | -N.S.Ma y . | + | |
- | sanctuary for Koalas at fona Vale where he has been carrying out experiments in breeding and food habits. Scientists from the University and the - ifuseum | + | The special sub-committee investigated this matter |
- | It has been agreed amongst | + | |
- | 1. The establishment of Faunal Reserves (called Wild Life Refuges in America) | + | 1. __A Koala Census__: has been commenced |
+ | |||
+ | 2. __Breeding Koalas__: Mr. E.J. Hallstrom has established a private sanctuary for Koalas at Mona Vale where he has been carrying out experiments in breeding and food habits. Scientists from the University and the Museum | ||
+ | |||
+ | It has been agreed amongst | ||
+ | |||
+ | 1. The establishment of Faunal Reserves (called Wild Life Refuges in America) | ||
2. Education of the Public generally, to the appreciation of our Native Fauna. | 2. Education of the Public generally, to the appreciation of our Native Fauna. | ||
- | The latter question has not yet been broached and it will be a tremendous task, nobody denies. On the matter of Faunal Reserves wo have had scme discussions. These Reserves must be large and varied in their representation of ecological habitat. They must be well managed. Numerous organisatio ns have been asked to make suggestions as to suitable areas such organisations including the Federation of | ||
- | Bush Walking Clubs. Henbers of the S.B.W. are asked to give donsiG.era - tion to the matter. Type areas could be :- | ||
- | 1. To represent Snowline and Rain Forest Habitats: The Barrington | ||
- | ==ar- ,.[ -4. J | ||
- | Gloucester Tops Area | ||
- | 2. To represent Open Forest and Allie d Features: The -Morton Primitive Area extended south of the Shoalhaven through Yalwal and the Budawangs to Clyde Mountain. | ||
- | The matter of Faunal 7,eserves is very extensive and cannot be fully discussed in this brief treatment of the work of the Panel. | ||
- | Numerous other natters have come up for discussion, with decisions made or pending whilst awaiting enquiries. These include :- | ||
- | 1. Open Seasons, | ||
- | 2. Fixing Royalties on Skins, | ||
- | 3. Review of Schedule of Unprotected Fauna (p& | ||
- | 4. Services of a biologist, | ||
- | 5. Exportation of birds. | ||
- | One other point in recent activities recpires mention. This is the Interstate Conference on the preservation and protection of native fauna which was held at Hobart from 7th to 10th December, 1949. N.S.W. was represented by Messrs. Griffith and Hallstrom of the Fauna Panel and there were representatives from S.A., W.A., Vic., and Tao. An extensive agenda was covered; I'can do litt13 else but mention some of the eighteen matters discussed:- | ||
- | 1. Uniform policy regarding control of Marsupials in portions of States which adjoin. | ||
- | 2. Co-operation with International Organisations. | ||
- | 30 Re-afforestation Projects and their influences on Bird Life. | ||
- | 4. Co-operation of States with the C.S.I.R.O. Wildlife Section. | ||
- | 5. Relation of Fauna to Agriculture and assessment of actual dame ge. | ||
- | 6. Game Kangement. | ||
- | 7. Steps taken to conserve l' | ||
- | 89 Sanctuaries and National Parkes. | ||
- | 9. Faunal Reserves. | ||
- | 10. The use of Traps and other means of taking anillials. | ||
- | A further :meeting of the conference has been planned for Adlaide in | ||
- | 1951. | ||
- | Finall y in this very abort review I must stress the importance of the task undertaken by the Chief Guardian of Fauna (Mr. F.Jo | ||
- | and to drAw your attenUon to the weakness of the Act, No provision is made for an Annual Grant to the Panel from the Treasury. All fi nance I should imagine will have to come from special grants made for specific purposes or from the long list that already is made to the Chief Secretaryis Department, | ||
- | TEE DAVEY TRIP'. | + | The latter question has not yet been breached and it will be a tremendous task, nobody denies. On the matter of Faunal Reserves we have had some discussions. These Reserves must be large and varied in their representation of ecological habitat. They must be well managed. Numerous organisations have been asked to make suggestions as to suitable areas such organisations including the Federation of Bush Walking Clubs. Members of the S.B.W. are asked to give consideration to the matter. Type areas could be :- |
+ | |||
+ | 1. __To represent Snowline and Rain Forest Habitats__: The Barrington Gloucester Tops Area. | ||
+ | |||
+ | 2. To represent Open Forest and Allied Features: The Morton Primitive Area extended south of the Shoalhaven through Yalwal and the Budawangs to Clyde Mountain. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The matter of Faunal Reserves is very extensive and cannot be fully discussed in this brief treatment of the work of the Panel. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Numerous other Matters have come up for discussion, with decisions made or pending whilst awaiting enquiries. These include :- | ||
+ | |||
+ | - Open Seasons, | ||
+ | - Fixing Royalties on Skins, | ||
+ | - Review of Schedule of Unprotected Fauna (particularly the Wedge-tailed Eagle), | ||
+ | - Services of a biologist, | ||
+ | - Exportation of birds. | ||
+ | |||
+ | One other point in recent activities requires mention. This is the Interstate Conference on the preservation and protection of native fauna which was held at Hobart from 7th to 10th December, 1949. N.S.W. was represented by Messrs. Griffith and Hallstrom of the Fauna Panel and there were representatives from S.A., W.A., Vic., and Tas. An extensive agenda was covered; I can do litt1e else but mention some of the eighteen matters discussed: | ||
+ | |||
+ | - Uniform policy regarding control of Marsupials in portions of States which adjoin. | ||
+ | - Co-operation with International Organisations. | ||
+ | - Re-afforestation Projects and their influences on Bird Life. | ||
+ | - Co-operation of States with the C.S.I.R.O. Wildlife Section. | ||
+ | - Relation of Fauna to Agriculture and assessment of actual damage. | ||
+ | - Game Management. | ||
+ | - Steps taken to conserve Native Fauna. | ||
+ | - Sanctuaries and National Parkes. | ||
+ | - Faunal Reserves. | ||
+ | - The use of Traps and other means of taking animals. | ||
+ | |||
+ | A further meeting of the conference has been planned for Adelaide in 1951. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Finally in this very short review I must stress the importance of the task undertaken by the Chief Guardian of Fauna (Mr. F.J. Griffiths) and to draw your attention to the weakness of the Act. No provision is made for an Annual Grant to the Panel from the Treasury. All finance I should imagine will have to come from special grants made for specific purposes or from the long list that already is made to the Chief Secretary's Department. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | =====The Davey Trip.===== | ||
By Kevin Ardill. | By Kevin Ardill. | ||
- | George Dibley, Roley Cotter and the various ailaways are responsible for a group of' seven walkers parading in Hobart on a sunny Saturday afternoon in December. As well as the two mentioned the party consisted of Gladys Martin, Marie Walsh, Peg, Bransdon, Len Fall and your raconteur. Most of you would have been surprised to see a fearsome object included in the group, to wit - a half axe. | ||
- | I felt rather out of place with the axe but my friend John de Bavay of Hobart Walking Club had practically insisted on its inclusion, and, thou7h I assured him by letter that I had a tomahawk lined up, he wrote rather a blunt reply warning me that a tomahawk | + | George Dibley, Roley Cotter |
- | was only an abomination ard can only exasperate, besides proving inadequate most of the time". Strong words, youth]. agree, so, startled out of my usual collia, I sallied into town and, I would say, was one of the few shoppers looking | + | |
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- | The axe explained, wo still find our group in Hobart | + | |
- | Before describing the walk, I'd beCter get the party down to | + | |
- | . the starting point, so once more back to Hobart Where we had changed clothes and were pacing the deck of the" | + | |
- | We arrived at Long Bay, in Pt. Davey, and had landed with food supplies by 1 p m. next day. It was drizzling rain and on Mr. Dale's suggestion we made camp alongside a creek. Please don't imagine a pleasant camp site, but we had wood and water and, if the selection was rather wet and boggy, on a slopaard a likely home for leeches, at least it afforded us some protection from the wind. We had an early tea and George and I had a look around for a better camp spot. We saw a couple of places but tDose of you Whoiknow Holey will not be surprised | + | |
- | Next morning promised | + | |
- | Later we walked around to the next creek where we saw the grave of Critchley Parker, | + | I felt rather out of place with the axe but my friend John de Bavay of Hobart Walking Club had practically insisted |
- | he Port and on the other side of Long Day. Alter doing some tAps around Davey he decided he would like to do the walk to Kalista. | + | |
- | Mr. Ting boated him across to where the track comuences | + | |
- | George and Marie were first to return for lunch and by the time we returned George had on exhibit a decent specimen of the Tassie tiger snake. Marie had first located the snake half way into George' | + | The axe explained, we still find our group in Hobart but by this time all ferried across the Derwent |
- | will be deluged with superlativ es a number of" | + | |
- | - | + | |
- | iloadles ofUbeautifuls a couple of least last one | + | |
- | colossal. The clumb on to Mt. Misery and Mt. Berry looked easy from where we were, but time was against us, so we returned t9 camp, had a swirl, tea, and after waiting for a sunset that didn't appear we went to bed. | + | |
- | Rain spattering on the tent heralded the dawn but by 6 n m. the sun was shining and we proceeded north across sloppy button grass: | + | |
- | ( | + | |
- | be funny to you but its darn uncomfortable for me". Clouds were now drifting across the peak, but we continued the clumb. I would like to record that we reached the peak but about 2/0 yards from the top we came across an amazing series of caves and crevices, and as cloud was now obscuring | + | |
- | Rain ard wind persisted through the night and by some irr,1:0F,I.cle the tents withstood the blasts. Being so far south the light comes early and at 5 a m.,with the day well advanced,we crawlafrom our bags. With the aid of the axe we promoted the breakfast fire and the company was beginning to regard the implement with a more favourable eye. After breakfast, surplm food was made as weatherprocf as possible, and after attaahing ahhelp yourself' | + | |
- | The track commenced at this point and one pocket of bauera encountered left no doUht that a wevious walker' | + | |
- | The evening camp was a vast improvement on Long Bay and there was even bracken fern to cushion | + | |
- | The promise of a sunny day had the photographers astirearly and thoughts of porridge had the same effect on the carriers of the axe. However, our spirits, | + | |
- | but the howling winds we encountered on this trip made them usGless as rainproof covering. On the subject of clothing, we all wore long | + | |
- | pants through | + | |
- | scrap heap at the end of the trip, you can imagine how our legs would have fared in shorts. | + | |
- | II. | + | |
- | The track was most difficult to follow,an4 after losing it for some time ,George found it just in time toJead us from the plateaa up through a range of mountains. Up and up we went with views obscured by what George describbd as " | + | Before describing |
- | The track continued through button grass next morning but the weather was clearing and the mountai no on all sides began to impress -us. By the time we approached the Crossing River the day was fine and th6 scenery kept improving at every step. Arrival at the Crossing River gave us another shock. It really was a river and after the rai n was running a banker. A search upstream failed to show us wheTe-we were advised we could "jump across" | + | |
- | Crossing the Crossi ng River took us three hours and we had lunch on the other side. Remembrance of Parker sitting | + | |
- | The afternoon walk was a memorable one. Magnificent mountains on all sides and the sun shining. I consider the mountains in this area far superior to those in the Whole of the Cradle Mount - Lake St.Clair reserve. Making camp was a pleasant affair and this one day of views made the previous day's discomfort well worth while. | + | |
- | After tea the sky became cloudy and shortly after crawling off to bed the wind began to rise. A spot of tent pegging was | + | |
- | indi cated so we orawled out of bed, cut some stakes and did the job. George and Holey had si milar tasks but George applied just that extra pressure on the guy ropes and down fell the tent on top of Marie. Someone was indecent enough to lagh. | + | |
- | It rained all night. It blew all night. A hot breakfast made the hearts _ a littler lighter but the weather gave no signs of improvement. We roved off, ard, climbing a series of low ridges, soon lost sight of the mo c_rtains that had such appeal on the previous day. Rain combined with the unfriendly southerly made for slow going and a further dampening experience was in stare for us. I happened | + | |
- | 12. | + | |
- | to be in front when the track entered a pocket of scrub, and next thing I was waist deep in water. There was little indication of this hidden creek,but probing | + | |
- | A further attempt was made upstream where a sapling was felled across the creek. I crossed, then Len, with Roley following closely. I should say Roley attempted to follow, because after much arm waving and balancing, be very gracefully duck dived. I think tIeorge had the haulage contract and, acoovipanied by yards of advice and lots of splashing, the old bloke was landed. The rest of the party crossed with dry shirts and we plodded on a little more cautiously. The next creek bad a log crossing and, safely across, we continued over button grass to have our first look at the Junction River. On6 look was sufficialt. This was one river we couldn' | + | |
- | The crossing of two unmapped creeks gave us an idea of the job ahead of us. The rain was still pouring down and when we reached the first creek on the map our worst fear were realised. IA dry ' | + | |
- | After lunching tho ma. e team all did a little wading and after lengthy search, found a place where we hoped to cross. When we left dry ground we had to ploughqhrough head high scrub with water to or,-.r knees. After about 30 yards of this we edged across a tree that had fallen over the main channel then did another 30 yards wading to terra firma. I think we were all relieved to cross safely as a slip itto the racing channel could have caused trouble. | + | |
- | In sleet and howling wind we headed for the next creek. The track was lost and with a snow pole every mile we decided not to persevere with the search. When we arrived on a ridge overlooking the creek it was getting late, so we decid6d,to camp. There was some protection from the wind and we went to sleep with the howl of the wind as slumber msic. | + | |
- | | + | |
- | 13. | + | |
- | a few blows with the axe put a satisfactory bridge over the tam. | + | |
- | 4 The weather was improving, the wind nca blowing at only 70 mopoho so we set sail for the next creek. The track net the creek down close to its junction with the Huon River and we had lunch within View of the torrent. A couple of dead saplings were dropped across the creek ca)yl one more obstacle was belAnd us. At this stage, we felt ready to tackle anything. We walked across button grass plains with the Arthur Hang towering above us. This range has to be seen to be appreciated and though the caLleras were busy I feel that they would be unable to do justice to this ,ugnificent range of mountains. I heard Gladys murmuring gloriouses by the dozen and I agreed. The skyline is the most rugged and impressive I have seen, end, from a -ridge, | + | |
- | view of Mt. Picton, with the Craycroft River in the foreground. | + | |
- | Our first dlose-up of the river came late that afternoon. One look was sufficient for that day. Sixty yards wide and dark and deep it was a different proposition to the creeks. We made camp in a sheltered spot ard went to sleep on the problem. In the morning the river seemed to be dropping a little. Len and I went downstream, Roley and ' | + | |
- | The river was falling at the rate of two inches an hour,and in the morning we found it was down about two feet. Down cane a fair sized tree. Four strong men took a firm grip but the tree refused to move. With a cord we :measured the exact distarce to be bridged and the tree w as out accordingly. Four strong men on the heavy end, three strong girls on the lighter end, -nulled, pushed and levered. The log was maneuvered almost into position9 balanced for a glorious moment of uncertainty, | + | |
- | say that choPped another tree. This time our effol;ts were successfuLand when the first walker placed his foot on the other side of the river a cheer went up that wouldn't have disgraced a Rugby League match of the day. | + | |
- | Instead of going downstream | + | |
- | Robs | + | |
- | ground I felt I had done a half days walk in 00 yards | + | |
- | We found the track, then followed it up a succession of ridges, with many backwards glances at Federation Peak 9nd the Arthur Range. | + | |
- | - Lunch was a welcome break, with panoramic views to the south and west. I think we climbed Over 4,000 feet tat afternoon and camped at the foot of Mt. Picton, looking ruffed and 3:Lajestic in the late afternoon sun. | + | |
- | The camp spot was wet ,butwith built up beds we were comfortable. AL least, everyone else was, but when Len built the bed he somehow didnft put enough packing on Jey side. After sliding out of the tent several times I was forced to complain. An elbow applied to the ribs of tentmates | + | |
- | Though mist and low aloud shrouded the eanp we were awake early and neved off- with thepromise of a fine day. Skirting around the foot of Mt. Picton, still covered in cloud, we came to North Lake. On the northern side of the lake we found evidence of the Hobart Walking Club. The track was blazed and marked with expired car number plates, some painted rod and yellow, end with pieces of rag and yellow chalk marks. Weliessed every one of then, Those of you who like walking off the beaten track would be ecstatic on this section without the markers. We were now heading down towards the Huon River, losing all the height we had laboured to obtain the previous day. We went down through | + | |
- | The Forestry COraliSsiOn has out a six- foot track through to this point and the Picton River and Picton Hut were about three hours walk ahead. Roley, George, Marie and Fe f decided to camp by the Huon, but as our food bags were very light Gladys, Len and myself headed for the hut. The trabk was a lolly, and we made good time to the Picton River, crossed over the fine new suspension bridge | + | |
- | 9efore leaving next morning we padded our feet with elasto plast. Another tip from John de Bavay, and it proved one of the hest. After following the track over Bog Tall, aptly named, we hit a jeep track whidh led us to a sawdust dump where exaotly 5.1 miles of hard road led to Geeveston. We had an hour and a half bofe7:e the bus left fa' Hobart. ThLs was where the elasto plast proved its worth and with the dogs barking a chorus we climbed on the TillS with n minute to spare. There was no brass band to welcome us back to Hobart, but a | + | |
- | 15) | + | |
- | change of Glean clothes and a beckoning cafe was a , | + | |
- | Well, that's the trip. The editor der-anded a report and its cost me miles of pad paper, chewed pencils, and more than one headache. I think we would be unanimous in saying that an axe is essential on this trip, a wall tent with good proofing is desirable, and a. waterproof garrent with sleeves and a separate cover for the pack is advisable. Oh, ard last but not least, if going down Davey way, 7,ut in an order for fine weather and leave the swimming till you get back hone. | + | |
- | (Two long articles were received for this month' | + | We arrived at Long Bay, in Pt. Davey, and had landed with food supplies by 1 p.m. next day. It was drizzling rain and on Mr. Dale's suggestion we made camp alongside a creek. Please don't imagine a pleasant camp site, but we had wood and water and, if the selection was rather wet and boggy, on a slope and a likely home for leeches, at least it afforded us some protection from the wind. We had an early tea and George and I had a look around for a better camp spot. We saw a couple of places but those of you who know Roley will not be surprised that he was "happy where he was and had no intention of moving" |
+ | |||
+ | Next morning promised a fine day. We had the respective eating parties' | ||
+ | |||
+ | Later we walked around to the next creek where we saw the grave of Critchley Parker, with a brief inscription to the effect that he died on a walking trip in 1942. I am getting sidetracked on the relating of this trip but so many things intruded that its darn hard to write a decent record of it. I'd better tell you what Mr. Dale told us of Parker. He was staying at the King's place further the Port and on the other side of Long Bay. Alter doing some trips around Davey he decided he would like to do the walk to Kalista. Mr. King boated him across to where the track commences and supplied him with gear. Several months later Mr. Dale came ashore at Long Bay and found the remains of Parker in a sleeping bag by the creek. His diary told the story. He journeyed as far as the Crossing River. After rain the river was up and he sat there for five days unable to cross. Then he decided to return to Long Bay, having a prearranged plan to light a signal fire and the King's would bring the boat across for his return. You've probably had it happen to you. Parker left his match box open, struck a match and up went the lot in flames. No signal fire, no help. A river to the north that was impassable for him; Parker ate what food he had and then lay in his sleeping bag where Dale found him some time later. While we were thinking of Parker' | ||
+ | |||
+ | George and Marie were first to return for lunch and by the time we returned George had on exhibit a decent specimen of the Tassie tiger snake. Marie had first located the snake half way into George' | ||
+ | |||
+ | Rain spattering on the tent heralded the dawn but by 6 a.m. the sun was shining and we proceeded north across sloppy button grass to a likely ridge for the ascent of Mt. Berry. Though steep in parts the climbing was easy and we arrived just below the summit in time for lunch before the final climb. I had noticed large lumps of a jellylike substance scattered about and when Roley shot to his feet half-way through the meal I wasn't surprised to see a jellied backside to his pants. As Peggy hastened to remove the mess we were indiscreet enough to laugh, which moved Roley to retort that "it may be funny to you but its darn uncomfortable for me". Clouds were now drifting across the peak, but we continued the climb. I would like to record that we reached the peak but about 20 yards from the top we came across an amazing series of caves and crevices, and as cloud was now obscuring the view below we didn't persevere to the ultimate peak. I could nearly make you cry with the story of our descent. The wind had increased and the mixture of hail and rain beat us with gale force and several times we almost wandered off the ridge. Apart from being wet to the bottom of our raincoats, we returned without further incident to the camp and, to my amazement, the tents were still standing. For the first time the axe was used and we built some sort of a breakwind to shield our tents. The wind was terrific but we managed a fire in a hollow by the creek and a hot meal practically revived the party. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Rain and wind persisted through the night and by some miracle the tents withstood the blasts. Being so far south the light comes early and at 5 a.m., with the day well advanced, we crawled from our bags. With the aid of the axe we promoted the breakfast fire and the company was beginning to regard the implement with a more favourable eye. After breakfast, surplus food was made as weatherproof as possible, and after attaching a "help yourself" | ||
+ | |||
+ | The track commenced at this point and one pocket of bauera encountered left no doubt that a previous walker' | ||
+ | |||
+ | The promise of a sunny day had the photographers astir early and thoughts of porridge had the same effect on the carriers of the axe. However, our spirits, and lower extremities, | ||
+ | |||
+ | The track was most difficult to follow, and, after losing it for some time, George found it just in time to lead us from the plateau up through a range of mountains. Up and up we went with views obscured by what George described as " | ||
+ | |||
+ | The track continued through button grass next morning but the weather was clearing and the mountains on all sides began to impress us. By the time we approached the Crossing River the day was fine and the scenery kept improving at every step. Arrival at the Crossing River gave us another shock. It really was a river and after the rain was running a banker. A search upstream failed to show us where we were advised we could "jump across" | ||
+ | |||
+ | Crossing the Crossing River took us three hours and we had lunch on the other side. Remembrance of Parker sitting at this barrier for five days brought a great feeling of sympathy to us all and an understanding of his predicament. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The afternoon walk was a memorable one. Magnificent mountains on all sides and the sun shining. I consider the mountains in this area far superior to those in the whole of the Cradle Mount - Lake St. Clair reserve. Making camp was a pleasant affair and this one day of views made the previous day's discomfort well worth while. | ||
+ | |||
+ | After tea the sky became cloudy and shortly after crawling off to bed the wind began to rise. A spot of tent pegging was indicated so we crawled out of bed, cut some stakes and did the job. George and Roley had similar tasks but George applied just that extra pressure on the guy ropes and down fell the tent on top of Marie. Someone was indecent enough to laugh. | ||
+ | |||
+ | It rained all night. It blew all night. A hot breakfast made the hearts a little lighter but the weather gave no signs of improvement. We moved off, and, climbing a series of low ridges, soon lost sight of the mountains that had such appeal on the previous day. Rain combined with the unfriendly southerly made for slow going and a further dampening experience was in store for us. I happened to be in front when the track entered a pocket of scrub, and next thing I was waist deep in water. There was little indication of this hidden creek, but probing with a stick showed it about 8 feet deep and the same distance across. The axe was produced and a couple of large bushes were placed across the gap, but when attempting a crossing I dunked myself again, this time being hauled out by Len, whose only thought, I fear, was to save our food being soaked. | ||
+ | |||
+ | A further attempt was made upstream where a sapling was felled across the creek. I crossed, then Len, with Roley following closely. I should say Roley attempted to follow, because after much arm waving and balancing, be very gracefully duck dived. I think George had the haulage contract and, accompanied by yards of advice and lots of splashing, the old bloke was landed. The rest of the party crossed with dry shirts and we plodded on a little more cautiously. The next creek had a log crossing and, safely across, we continued over button grass to have our first look at the Junction River. One look was sufficient. This was one river we couldn' | ||
+ | |||
+ | The crossing of two unmapped creeks gave us an idea of the job ahead of us. The rain was still pouring down and when we reached the first creek on the map our worst fears were realised. In dry conditions it would be an easy jump but now there was an expanse of water about 60 yards wide. We all had a bit of a scatter around and I went upstream to have a look. The water here was only knee deep and I paddled quite a fair distance before I found the main channel. After climbing out of seven feet of water I rejoined the party for lunch in a semi sheltered clump of trees. | ||
+ | |||
+ | After lunching the male team all did a little wading and after lengthy search, found a place where we hoped to cross. When we left dry ground we had to plough through head high scrub with water to our knees. After about 30 yards of this we edged across a tree that had fallen over the main channel then did another 30 yards wading to terra firma. I think we were all relieved to cross safely as a slip into the racing channel could have caused trouble. | ||
+ | |||
+ | In sleet and howling wind we headed for the next creek. The track was lost and with a snow pole every mile we decided not to persevere with the search. When we arrived on a ridge overlooking the creek it was getting late, so we decided to camp. There was some protection from the wind and we went to sleep with the howl of the wind as slumber music. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Awakening with the thought of a possible swimming programme ahead of us didn't make me happy. Showers were still driving down from the Arthur Range but after breakfast we decided to look for the track. Len and I went south and after about a mile we fluked a sight of the only snow pole and followed the track down to the creek. We returned to camp and when we arrived back at the creek a few blows with the axe put a satisfactory bridge over the stream. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The weather was improving, the wind now blowing at only 70 m.p.h. so we set sail for the next creek. The track met the creek down close to its junction with the Huon River and we had lunch within view of the torrent. A couple of dead saplings were dropped across the creek and one more obstacle was behind us. At this stage, we felt ready to tackle anything. We walked across button grass plains with the Arthur Range towering above us. This range has to be seen to be appreciated and though the cameras were busy I feel that they would be unable to do justice to this magnificent range of mountains. I heard Gladys murmuring gloriouses by the dozen and I agreed. The skyline is the most rugged and impressive I have seen, and, from a ridge, our first view of Federation Peak added lustre to the scene. The sun was shining as we dropped down the other side of the ridge, but losing sight of the Arthur' | ||
+ | |||
+ | Our first close-up of the river came late that afternoon. One look was sufficient for that day. Sixty yards wide and dark and deep it was a different proposition to the creeks. We made camp in a sheltered spot and went to sleep on the problem. In the morning the river seemed to be dropping a little. Len and I went downstream, Roley and George upstream, leaving the ladies to report on the rate of fall. George returned with news of a possible crossing p1ace so upstream we bashed through bracken and scrub. The place had possibilities. Several gigantic trees lay practically across the river and on the other side was a tree that should bridge the gap if the axe was applied. I was all set to swim over with the axe but the courage ebbed when I considered the force of the current and probability of snags. I may have showed good judgement because when we felled a tree further upstream the current whirled it away as if it was a matchstick. We made the afternoon a rest day with clothes-washing the main occupation. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The river was falling at the rate of two inches an hour and in the morning we found it was down about two feet. Down came a fair sized tree. Four strong men took a firm grip but the tree refused to move. With a cord we measured the exact distance to be bridged and the tree was cut accordingly. Four strong men on the heavy end, three strong girls on the lighter end, pulled, pushed and levered. The log was manoeuvred almost into position, balanced for a glorious moment of uncertainty, | ||
+ | |||
+ | Instead of going downstream to look for the track we decided to shoot straight up to a bare looking hill above us. A horrible experience of bauera and cutting grass. Means of progress - face flat on the scrub, regain the feet and walk the distance flattened. Ditto repeato. The going was steep and when we reached the open ground I felt I had done a half day's walk in 80 yards. | ||
+ | |||
+ | We found the track, then followed it up a succession of ridges, with many backwards glances at Federation Peak and the Arthur Range. Lunch was a welcome break, with panoramic views to the south and west. I think we climbed over 4,000 feet that afternoon and camped at the foot of Mt. Picton, looking rugged and majestic in the late afternoon sun. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The camp spot was wet, but with built up beds we were comfortable. At least, everyone else was, but when Len built the bed he somehow didn't put enough packing on my side. After sliding out of the tent several times I was forced to complain. An elbow applied to the ribs of tentmates is recommended as certain to attract attention but the lack of sympathy left much to be desired. Rearrangement of packs downhill was an improvement and I at last slept. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Though mist and low cloud shrouded the camp we were awake early and moved off with the promise of a fine day. Skirting around the foot of Mt. Picton, still covered in cloud, we came to North Lake. On the northern side of the lake we found evidence of the Hobart Walking Club. The track was blazed and marked with expired car number plates, some painted red and yellow, and with pieces of rag and yellow chalk marks. We blessed every one of them. Those of you who like walking off the beaten track would be ecstatic on this section without the markers. We were now heading down towards the Huon River, losing all the height we had laboured to obtain the previous day. We went down through a mile of rain forest, best described by someone who likened it to a blazed obstacle race, A ticklish climb down 60 feet of what the map described as a " | ||
+ | |||
+ | The Forestry Commission has cut a six foot track through to this point and the Picton River and Picton Hut were about three hours walk ahead. Roley, George, Marie and Peg decided to camp by the Huon, but as our food bags were very light Gladys, Len and myself headed for the hut. The track was a lolly, and we made good time to the Picton River, crossed over the fine new suspension bridge and walked straight into an advance party of Melbourne Uni students on the way to attempt to climb Federation Peak. Wishing then luck we pushed on to Picton Hut arriving there about 7 p.m. Fresh potatoes in the hut were welcome and, after tea, buckets of hot water and a big dish made the end of a perfect day. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Before leaving next morning we padded our feet with elasto plast. Another tip from John de Bavay, and it proved one of the best. After following the track over Bog Hill, aptly named, we hit a jeep track which led us to a sawdust dump where exactly 5.1 miles of hard road led to Geeveston. We had an hour and a half before the bus left for Hobart. This was where the elasto plast proved its worth and with the dogs barking a chorus we climbed on the bus with a minute to spare. There was no brass band to welcome us back to Hobart, but a change of clean clothes and a beckoning cafe was a satisfactory substitute. The rest of the party? They arrived in Hobart later in the evening, being fortunate enough to get a lift from a utility truck returning from taking stores to the University climbers. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Well, that's the trip. The editor demanded a report and its cost me miles of pad paper, chewed pencils, and more than one headache. I think we would be unanimous in saying that an axe is essential on this trip, a wall tent with good proofing is desirable, and a waterproof garment with sleeves and a separate cover for the pack is advisable. Oh, and last but not least, if going down Davey way, put in an order for fine weather and leave the swimming till you get back home. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | (Two long articles were received for this month' | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | =====Notes On Era.===== | ||
- | NOTES ON ERA. | ||
By Kath. McKay. | By Kath. McKay. | ||
- | Well, we've done it again: Christmas has come round, New Year has come round, and now we're coming round, after the intoxication of freed m, fresh air and sunshine in our annual visit to Era | + | |
- | And how green was our valley this summer, with extra springs in the creek, in the braGken-bedding and in the cows and ilel,r?s whe-Je | + | Well, we've done it again: Christmas has come round, New Year has come round, and now we're coming round, after the intoxication of freedom, fresh air and sunshine in our annual visit to Era. |
- | The barbed wire enclosure takes away some of the charm froirt | + | |
- | A party of non-walkers plodded perspiring beside the barbed wire fence, and one was heard to remark, as they crawled laboriously beneath it, crossed the enclosure and wriggled out the other side: hLook, Fred Flomebody's bought this block and they' | + | And how green was our valley this summer, with extra springs in the creek, in the bracken-bedding and in the cows and horses which leapt nimbly between our tents, snatching the food-bags of the unwary. (The leeches also, be it whispered, were springing about more than usual.) |
- | 6 | + | |
- | Musing upon the virtues of this our Era; we bogan to wonde how it got its name. The editor | + | The barbed wire enclosure takes away some of the charm from the view towards the sandhills, but will be suffered |
- | it says (2flong | + | |
- | Now, the word corpor inconjunctiop | + | A party of non-walkers plodded perspiring beside the barbed wire fence, and one was heard to remark, as they crawled laboriously beneath it, crossed the enclosure and wriggled out the other side: "Look, Fred somebody's bought this block and they' |
- | These days are pas, and this year one solitary nudist remained to crry the torch of hi faith. We tripped over him hero end there, but he persevered, | + | |
- | IA nudist down at Era | + | Musing upon the virtues of this our Era, we began to wonder |
- | Fq-331ined | + | |
- | Ho crouthed | + | Era, it says (among other things) is an important |
- | Or peered through darkened glasses, At the fierce light of the :moon, | + | |
- | He skipped from rock to rmndliill | + | Now, the word copper in conjunction |
- | - What hi4, | + | |
- | Some sat (1: H0 's just a moron", | + | Those days are past, and this year one solitary nudist remained to carry the torch of his faith. We tripped over him here and there, but he persevered, |
- | Some | + | |
- | il- | + | A nudist down at Era\\ |
- | s_aould | + | Rec1ined |
- | Has no on... told hill | + | He crouched |
- | That nudity' | + | On a rainy afternoon,\\ |
- | 0 lo12dy, what q pother | + | Or peered through darkened glasses,\\ |
- | About a bit of skins | + | At the fierce light of the moon. |
- | JUST TO REMIND | + | |
- | annual | + | He skipped from rock to sandhill\\ |
- | _ | + | With bath towel waving free;\\ |
- | - | + | He skirmished round the bushes\\ |
- | IV. | + | To dodge our company.\\ |
- | "Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia, | + | - What with all the interruptions\\ |
- | Coepernook | + | He was pa1e as pale could be. |
- | Gymoa Bay, Nosow. | + | |
- | January- 25t1-1 | + | Some said: "He's just a moron", |
- | The Editor, | + | Some - "He should |
- | "The Sydney | + | Has no one ever told him\\ |
+ | That nudity' | ||
+ | O lordy, what a pother\\ | ||
+ | About a bit of skin! | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====Just to remind.==== | ||
+ | |||
+ | Annual | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | =====Letter From The Wildlife Preservation Society.===== | ||
+ | |||
+ | "Wild Life Preservation Society of Australia,\\ | ||
+ | "Miara",\\ | ||
+ | Coepernook Avenue,\\ | ||
+ | Gymea Bay, N.S.W. | ||
+ | |||
+ | January | ||
+ | |||
+ | The Editor,\\ | ||
+ | "The Sydney | ||
+ | 55 Kirribilli Avenue,\\ | ||
+ | __Milsons Point__. | ||
Dear Sir, | Dear Sir, | ||
- | My Society is very grateful for the publicit7,that 7ou have given to our 30th Report through the Editorial of 87,5licy Bush walker. I have to. express our thanks and to intliYa:e ts-riar-, | + | |
- | It is important however, following upon your comments, that I should be permitted to enlarge upon the Society' | + | My Society is very grateful for the publicity |
- | Perhaps your readers will be led to believe that this Society suggests a remote central control from an impregnable | + | |
- | 1R. | + | It is important however, following upon your comments, that I should be permitted to enlarge upon the Society' |
- | ing trees with gusto 1 but little scientific | + | |
- | S.A. and Queensland, | + | Perhaps your readers will be led to believe that this Society suggests a remote central control from an impregnable |
- | All this need not (and indeed, does not, as your comments show) stay us froi_. | + | |
- | be as you yourself | + | All this need not (and indeed, does not, as your comments show) stay us from action now; and what is more, on matters |
Yours sincerely, | Yours sincerely, | ||
- | Allen A-. Strom | ||
- | HONORARY SECRETARY | + | Allen A. Strom, Honorary Secretary |
- | (We have not yet sen any instances quoted of interstate conservation matters which could not be co-ordinated by agreement | + | |
- | Wild Tiife Preservation Society will waste its limited | + | (We have not yet seen any instances quoted of interstate conservation matters which could not be co-ordinated by agreement |
- | effective resources in striving for an almost unattainable objective of doubtful benefit - Ed.) | + | |
- | FEDMATION NOTES | + | ---- |
- | by Briaa G. Harvey | + | |
- | A CODE 0-7 ETHICS | + | =====Federation Notes.===== |
- | oral distribution amongst the bushwalking public, which step should make the bush a better place for all concerned. | + | |
- | AN ATTNinirENT TO THE CONSTITUTIC | + | by Brian G. Harvey |
- | of new applicant clubs was carried without dissent, the River Canoe | + | |
- | Club abstaining from voting. The Canoe Club thought it was un- | + | __A Code of Ethics__ |
- | necessary,that the Fefteration | + | |
- | tree-cutting and shooting in the "Code of Ethics" | + | __An Amendment to the Constitution__ |
- | SEARCH ND RTP.SCME reorted | + | |
- | gation | + | __Search and Rescue__ reported |
- | A VICTORAN FEDERATION | + | |
- | THE CONSERVATION BUREAU | + | __A Victorian Federation__ |
- | HOW TO GET TO THE SWIMMING CARNIVAL | + | |
- | c J . | + | __The Conservation Bureau__ |
- | As mentioned in the Social Notes the Swimming | + | |
- | etc. | + | ---- |
- | e. .P... $ ? | + | |
- | 1.29', 3.30, 4.30 and 5 p m. Trains leave/' \':-4- t g ?, tf, Campbelltown on Sunday at 2.12, | + | ====How To Get To The Swimming Carnival.==== |
- | , | + | |
- | , 4.44,5.14 and 6.15. A bus meets some trains | + | As mentioned in the Social Notes the Swimming |
- | 4-e | + | |
- | fare. 1/-. Taxis are 4/- for the trip. 000 Cowie- | + | Trains depart from Central on Saturday at 10.30 and 11.30 a.m, and at 12.28, 1.29, 3.30, 4.30 and 5 p.m. Trains leave Campbelltown on Sunday at 2.12, 3.14, 4.14, 4.44, 5.14 and 6.15. A bus meets some trains - fare 1/-. Taxis are 4/1 for the trip. |
- | ( r.4.tce,f4 | + | |
- | OP | + | ---- |
- | Trains depart from Central on Saturday at 10.30 and 11.30 a m, and at 12.2Q, | + | |
- | ; | + | ====Join the Happy Throng.==== |
- | JOIN THE HAPPY THRONG | + | |
- | of annual subscribers to this magazine | + | Of annual subscribers to this magazine who cheerfully pay for their copy in advance - and save a shilling into the bargain! If you want your magazine posted to your home address, just fill in the form with this copy and send it together with 6/- to the Business |
- | who cheerfully pay for their copy in advance - and save a shilling into the bargain/ If you want your magazine posted to your hdme | + | |
- | address, just fill in the forpi with this | + | ---- |
- | copy and send it together with 6/- to the Bustnesa | + | |
- | of 4/6. Be in it - 114 others can't be wrong/ (These amounts will cover issues March 1950 - Jan. 1951.) | + | __Nature |
- | Nature | + | |
- | Q, How can you tell the age of a snake? Barbara | + | Q. How can you tell the age of a snake? Barbara |
- | A., It issextremely | + | |
- | 20. THE FAIL BAG | + | A. It is extremely |
- | As may be imagined, Paddy' | + | |
- | "I have been using your gear for some years with complete satisfaction. You may be interested in this story of a tour to the Diamentina country in the far west of Queensland last winter. In this country a " | + | ---- |
- | travoller. I duly packed mine - a down sleeping bag, japara groundsheet and one ma tent. The last I used like the westerners use their swav-rover, half laid out over the groundsheet and the othet, haif thrown over the top. The locals rocked with unrestrained mirth when I produced my swag - a pckage | + | |
- | slept as well and as warmly as they in their huge ones. | + | =====The Mail Bag.===== |
- | So Paddymade gear goes on penetrating into far-off places Chosen by thcm whose dent1-1-, | + | |
+ | As may be imagined, Paddy' | ||
+ | |||
+ | "I have been using your gear for some years with complete satisfaction. You may be interested in this story of a tour to the Diamentina country in the far west of Queensland last winter. In this country a " | ||
+ | |||
+ | So Paddymade gear goes on penetrating into far-off places. Chosen by those whose demands | ||
Paddymade is the choice of the experienced bushman. | Paddymade is the choice of the experienced bushman. | ||
+ | |||
Paddymade Camp Gear for Walkers. | Paddymade Camp Gear for Walkers. | ||
- | PADDY PALLIN, | ||
- | 327 George St., Phone | ||
- | BX3595 SYDNEY. | ||
+ | Paddy Pallin, | ||
+ | |||
+ | 327 George St., Sydney. Phone BX3595. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- |
195002.txt · Last modified: 2017/07/25 13:13 by tyreless