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195708 [2016/04/06 12:55] – [Seven Weeks in New Zealand - Part VI] kennettj | 195708 [2016/05/02 07:48] (current) – [Your Walking Guide] kennettj | ||
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Ron Knightley, one of our Federation delegates, then initiated a discussion on the Federation. He said that it was a moribund organisation today, and did not justify the time given to it by delegate, and the affiliation fees paid. He could therefore see two alternatives - either make it a useful organisation or wind it up. Three questions required an answer - 1. Was the Bushwalking movement behind it? | Ron Knightley, one of our Federation delegates, then initiated a discussion on the Federation. He said that it was a moribund organisation today, and did not justify the time given to it by delegate, and the affiliation fees paid. He could therefore see two alternatives - either make it a useful organisation or wind it up. Three questions required an answer - 1. Was the Bushwalking movement behind it? | ||
2. Was it doing a worthwhile job? 3. Can any other organisation do the job? In reply to (1) - there were 19 clubs and between 40 and 50 delegates. A quorum was 9 delegates from not less than 5 clubs, but | 2. Was it doing a worthwhile job? 3. Can any other organisation do the job? In reply to (1) - there were 19 clubs and between 40 and 50 delegates. A quorum was 9 delegates from not less than 5 clubs, but | ||
- | frequently there was only a bare quorum present. Average attendance for 1956-7 was 15 delegates. In the S.B.W., with 190 active members, we have difficulty in finding four delegates. On point (2) - the functions of the Federation were Conservation, | + | frequently there was only a bare quorum present. Average attendance for 1956-7 was 15 delegates. In the S.B.W., with 190 active members, we have difficulty in finding four delegates. On point (2) - the functions of the Federation were Conservation, |
- | rescue. There was little evidence of success in conservation. A 30,000 acre reserve had been secured at Nadgee. Though sponsored by Federation, the real work had been done by individual members of the S.B.W. and Caloola Clubs. It had taken several months to find a publicity officer, but where was the Federation Annual? Where was any exhibition like that of 1947 in which 37 bushwalkers gave their services in answering questions from the public? The information officer was willing, but got little support. He had received 6 walks reports in 9 months. The only search he had seen was organised by Jim Hooper and Paddy Pallin. On point (3) - The National Parks Association could care on Conservation. | + | |
- | Paul Earnes | + | Paul Barnes |
- | which tel.rted | + | which started |
John White said that we couldn' | John White said that we couldn' | ||
Line 104: | Line 103: | ||
-- Taro. | -- Taro. | ||
- | So many of the pages of the S.B. Maga are filled with idle chatter about the bush tracks and packs - a mountain here - a mountain there - and now and again a river. | + | So many of the pages of the S.B. Maga are filled with idle chatter about the bush tracks and packs - a mountain here - a mountain there - and now and again a river. So -- I think it quite time something was writ about the really interesting scenery of the Club - until now quite unsung. |
- | So -- I think it quite time something was writ about the really | + | |
- | interesting scenery of the Club - until now quite unsung. | + | I refer to the girls of the S.B.W. So many types there are - the Sunday ones, the tigresses!! the path patters - the rock climbers. So many gay sprites to lighten the miles with their smiles in all styles. |
- | I refer to the girls of the S.B.W. So many types there are - the | + | |
- | Sunday ones, the tigresses!! the path patters - the rock climbers. So many gay sprites to lighten the miles with their smiles in all styles. | + | |
Yet - looking at them all I would like to refer to one in particular. It may seem unfair to pick out any one - but this time it must be done. | Yet - looking at them all I would like to refer to one in particular. It may seem unfair to pick out any one - but this time it must be done. | ||
- | She is a rather serious type - a shade too serious - at times, looking at her, one would think the weight of the European situation was on her young shoulders. She is a calm thoughtful lass, speaks slowly and evenly - with well shaped phrases - (all which surely had | + | |
- | a blueprint phase) - easy to listen to - understood by all. | + | She is a rather serious type - a shade too serious - at times, looking at her, one would think the weight of the European situation was on her young shoulders. She is a calm thoughtful lass, speaks slowly and evenly - with well shaped phrases - (all which surely had a blueprint phase) - easy to listen to - understood by all. |
- | This adagio code is applied at meal times - never was so little consumed in so long a time. | + | |
- | Observant too - she remarked that this writer reminded her of | + | This adagio code is applied at meal times - never was so little consumed in so long a time. Observant too - she remarked that this writer reminded her of Captain Fortune. I have not seen this gentleman - but I'm told it was a complimentary remark. |
- | Captain Fortune. I have not seen this gentleman - but I'm told it was a complimentary remark. | + | |
- | Yes - she is a charming lass - with an easy flow of interesting | + | Yes - she is a charming lass - with an easy flow of interesting conversation - and positively -- no politics! Now in case any reader is curious about this girl - I may as well tell -- Her name Margaret Putt, Her age exactly four. |
- | conversation - and positively -- no politics! | + | |
- | Now in case any reader is curious about this girl - I may as well tell -- | + | (That rocked you, didn't it? - Ed) |
- | 6. | + | |
- | Her name MO fair MIND Margaret Putt | + | |
- | Her age exactly four: | + | |
- | (That rocked you, didn't it? - Edo) | + | |
====== Kowmung Capers ====== | ====== Kowmung Capers ====== | ||
Line 168: | Line 161: | ||
====== Your Walking Guide ====== | ====== Your Walking Guide ====== | ||
+ | August 16-17-18 Breakfast Ck-Galong Area. Track all the way, except in Galong Ck. Rock Climbing on Carlons Head (using steel spikes and chains) and minor climbing and scrambling in Galong Ck. Graded track up Devils Hole (1500ft). Usual good views from Narrow Neck particularly during the early morning hours. Galong Ck. an interesting experience (wet or dry). Rubber sole shoes advisable in Galong Ck. Fares 22/2 | ||
- | August | + | 17-18 Hawkesbury Boating. To proceed up Mangrove Ck. as far as possible. Camp Saturday night in Mangrove Ck. area. On Sunday exploration of local islands in Lower Hawkesbury, arriving back at Bobbin |
- | 16-17-18 Breakfast | + | |
- | 17-18 Hawkesbury_liza, | + | 18 Bundeena to Audley. Easy to Medium Test Walk. Track to Marley Pool. Little |
- | arriving back at Dobbin | + | |
- | N.13. Bring own shovels for removing mud banks from boat keels | + | 23-24-25 Mt. From.e-11111rEaia. Easy track and road walking to Bungonia Area, Rope work for descent of Mt, Frome. Possible rock climbing out of Bungonia Ck.- Sneakers may help a lot. Mighty views of Shoalhaven River and Bungonia |
- | 18 Bundeena to Audlez. Easy to Medium Test Walk. Track to Marley Pool. Lft-fle | + | |
- | 23-24-25 Mt. From.e-11111rEaia. Easy track and road walking to Bungonia Area, Rope work for descent of Mt, Frome. Possible rock climbing out of Bungonia Ck.- Sneakers may help a lot. | + | 24-25 Flint and Steel Bay Area. Easy to medium walking along ridges. Some spots little scratchy. Wildflowers should be flowering. Excellent all round views of Broken Bay and Hawkesbury River Area. Total fares approx. 10/-. |
- | Mighty views of Shoalhaven River andDungonia | + | |
- | 24-25 Flint and Steel Bay Area. Easy to medium walking along | + | 25. Jibbon Trig-Marley. |
- | ridges. Some spots little scratchy. Wildflowers should be flowering. Excellent all round views of Broken Bay and Hawkesbury River Area. Total fares approx. 10/-. | + | |
- | 25. Jibbon Trig-Marlez, | + | September |
- | cliff views, Wildflowers. Check with Leader re train and | + | |
- | ferry times. Cost approx. 8/-. Septembera: | + | 1-2 Terry Hills Roach trig. Easy track with small amount of scrub walking.. Rock carvings and wildflowers (Photographers take note), Fares approx. |
- | and timber roads. All easy to medium. Two medium climbs | + | |
- | involved. Views of Lake Macquarie and local coal districts. Test walk. Fares 31/3, | + | 6-7-8 Katoomba to Hiiltop. Walking is easy to medium but distance is the factor - track and roads all the way. However the distance of 93 miles makes it essential to be in excellent condition. For those wishing to pull out in Burragorang Valley, private transport will be based at Nattai Bridge, Those walking through to Hilltop can leave packs in cars. |
- | 1-2 L22.2: | + | |
- | scrub walking.. Rock carvings and wildflowers (Photographers take note), Fares approx. | + | 7-8 Nattai |
- | 6-7-8 21221111a_LaiiiilLia. Walking is easy to medium but distance is the factor - track and roads all the way. However the | + | |
- | distance of 93 miles makes it essential to be in excellent condition. For those wishing to pull out in Burragorang Valley, private transport will be based at Nattai Bridge, Those walking through to Hilltop can leave packs in cars. | + | 8 Berowra Ck-Tunks Ck. Mixture of track, creek, and ridge walking. Wildflowers.Slightly scrubby depending on bushfires. Good Sunday test walk. Return fare 5/2. |
- | 7-8 Nattai | + | |
- | Main camp at Nattai Bridge. Main objective is to ship packs and wrecked bodies from the previous trip out of valley, | + | 14-15 Bon Voyage to the Mcgregors. |
- | 8 Berowra Ck-Tunks Ck. Mixture of track, creek, and ridge walk- | + | |
- | ing. Wildflowers.Slightly scrubby depending on bushfires. Good Sunday test walk. Return fare 5/2. | + | 15 Spring |
- | 14-15 BonVoto | + | |
- | 15 Spring | + | |
====== Seven Weeks in New Zealand - Part VI ====== | ====== Seven Weeks in New Zealand - Part VI ====== | ||
Line 242: | Line 234: | ||
the boats. Nevertheless all twenty-three marines in the five boats agreed that it was a week-end to remember. What's that, Jim? | the boats. Nevertheless all twenty-three marines in the five boats agreed that it was a week-end to remember. What's that, Jim? | ||
- | Speaking of the boat trip reminds me of a certain kit bag which I couldn' | + | Speaking of the boat trip reminds me of a certain kit bag which I couldn' |
- | Everyone agreed that the Colour Slide Photographic Competition was a huge success, despite the excess of shots which popular judge Mr. C. Young billed as "Yes, a good record, but for competition - afraid it wouldn' | + | |
- | lsom over 100 entries, first honours went to George Gray with a classy shot of an | + | |
- | ice cave - second award to Frank Rigby with a shot of Grace and Geof sporting pemse1ves on the summit of Mr. Ossa and third award to Jack Wren for one of 1 | + | |
- | Ills infinitely intimate shots of a New Guinea Chieftain. I wonder if any of these qould originally have been taken as a record shot with no thought of competitions? | + | |
- | 4 wonder. | + | |
- | SOCIAL PROGRAMME CHANGE. | + | Everyone agreed that the Colour Slide Photographic Competition was a huge success, despite the excess of shots which popular judge Mr. C. Young billed as "Yes, a good record, but for competition - afraid it wouldn' |
- | The nights for Jack Wren's slides and the Free Night have now been Witched. Please alter your little blue books. | + | |
+ | |||
+ | SOCIAL PROGRAMME CHANGE.\\ | ||
+ | The nights for Jack Wren's slides and the Free Night have now been switched. Please alter your little blue books. | ||
====== "We Are Lost Little Sheep" | ====== "We Are Lost Little Sheep" | ||
- | Part III (Final' | + | Part III (Final Fatal Episode) |
- | Sub-Section. Troggint and Grogginl (Tea, sees) | + | |
- | Con Creek was now narrowing, with the vegetation becoming thicker, | + | Sub-Section. Troggint and Grogginl (Tea, sees). Con Creek was now narrowing, with the vegetation becoming thicker, |
- | (probably garlic) for the solution to our navigational problem. But, alas, no answer was forthcoming. | + | |
+ | So once again the mass murmurings of the party filtered into the atmosphere - " | ||
- | So once again the mass murmurings of the party filtered into the atmosphere - " | ||
Then suddenly out of this caustic conference a decision was finally reached - back to the prickle swamps: | Then suddenly out of this caustic conference a decision was finally reached - back to the prickle swamps: | ||
- | George, his eyes lighting up at the prospect of more prickles, | + | George, his eyes lighting up at the prospect of more prickles, crashed on down the creek, followed by the gloomy mob singing the now Bendethra Theme song - "You passed it, You passed it, It's further up the creek" |
- | crashed on down the creek, followed by the gloomy mob singing the now | + | |
- | Bendethra Theme song - "You passed it, You passed it, It's further up the creek" | + | |
- | The partt' | + | |
- | map Were very near, and secondly find a negotiable way over the Divide back to the Shoalhaven River. With this in mind Heather and Neil | + | |
- | chundered off up the hill leaving the party flat on their backs asleep, | + | |
- | One didn't require much knowledge of human nature to interpret | + | |
- | what was passing through the minds of the now leaderless Eendethra | + | |
- | Bashers. "Gee I'm glad I'm not leading this trip." | + | |
- | By 10.30 a.m. Frank Young, George and Ern had left the morning te group to try their luck at locating the caves. That old demon "Time was nearing mid-day when up in the gully Frank' | + | |
- | " | + | |
- | Within seconds Bev, Joan and the Admiral had scouped up their car- | + | |
- | bide lamps, jumped into their trog suits and like mad mountain goats were racing up hill towards the direction of Frank' | + | |
- | In ones and twos the party made their way along the undulating | + | |
- | dark, mud caverns. As most formations were very few and far between j2., | + | |
- | wasn't long before we all met up at the end, balancing precariously or | + | |
- | the mud slopes. With cries of Oohs and Abs we feasted our eyes on the dimly lit feeble formations. How wonderful it is to gaze at Nature' | + | |
- | wondrous creations under the earth? However, it wasn't long before we were suddenly brought back from this fantastic weird world, to the | + | |
- | world of reality and the thought of our leader probably bashing around the mountain looking for us. | + | |
- | With a feeling of guilt we made haste back to the entrance, only stopping to laugh at 3ev. and Margaret, who in rubber sole shoes, were | + | |
- | trying to out do Luna Park's famous dipper with their dare devil slides down the dangerous mud and limestone slopes.' | + | |
- | -- 'Sheep Dip' | + | |
- | As we crawled out of the pokey entrance we were confronted by Heather who was wearing an expression like Bo Peep, who had lost her sleep, rather than the leader looking for her renagade | + | The party' |
- | Scene: Shoalhaven Campsite. | + | |
+ | One didn't require much knowledge of human nature to interpret what was passing through the minds of the now leaderless Bendethra Bashers. "Gee I'm glad I'm not leading this trip." By 10.30 a.m. Frank Young, George and Ern had left the morning group to try their luck at locating the caves. That old demon "Time was nearing mid-day when up in the gully Frank' | ||
+ | |||
+ | Within seconds Bev, Joan and the Admiral had scouped up their carbide lamps, jumped into their trog suits and like mad mountain goats were racing up hill towards the direction of Frank' | ||
+ | |||
+ | With a feeling of guilt we made haste back to the entrance, only stopping to laugh at Kev and Margaret, who in rubber sole shoes, were trying to out do Luna Park's famous dipper with their dare devil slides down the dangerous mud and limestone slopes -- 'Sheep Dip' | ||
+ | |||
+ | As we crawled out of the pokey entrance we were confronted by Heather who was wearing an expression like Bo Peep, who had lost her sleep, rather than the leader looking for her renegade | ||
+ | |||
+ | Scene: Shoalhaven Campsite.\\ | ||
The air was bitterly cold as we snuggled into our sleeping bags. The day had been long and had taken toll of our energies. We had found the caves, found our way over the Divide, so with the thoughts of a job | The air was bitterly cold as we snuggled into our sleeping bags. The day had been long and had taken toll of our energies. We had found the caves, found our way over the Divide, so with the thoughts of a job | ||
- | well done we slipped off to Slumberland, | + | well done we slipped off to Slumberland, |
- | "Aw stop taking such big sips, I want some yer' know." | + | |
- | Frank Rigby tossed and turned in his corner of the tent. Cursing | + | Frank Rigby tossed and turned in his corner of the tent. Cursing the cold, cursing the Admiral for taking up the other three corners of the tent with his elongated boney body and cursing the fact that it was 3 a.m. and he couldn't sleep. Unable to stand it any longer he let out with a fearsome oath - "God it's b--- cold." |
- | the cold, cursing the Admiral for taking up the other three corners of the tent with his elongated boney body and cursing the fact that it was 3 a.m. and he Couldn't sleep. Unable to stand it any longer he let out | + | |
- | with a fearsome oath - "God it's b--- cold.(" | + | To his horror,. all around him, twelve voices replied "Yes isn' |
- | To his horror,. all around him, twelve voices replied "Yes isn't | + | |
- | A few hours later, with new energy, the mob left camp, to complete the last leg of the track, before reaching the cars. | + | Of course, before reaching the cars the inevitable farm house appeared in our path. The leader looking very immaculate approached the residents - of course with the idea of saying |
- | Of cours, before reaching the cars the inevitable farm house | + | |
- | appeared in our path. The leader looking very immaculate approached | + | As we sat on the front lawn, slurping and gulping the tea and scones, our wonderful host came out, took one look at the bearded forms of Ern and Neil and exclaimed, " |
- | the residents - of course with the idea of saying | + | |
- | bellowed from the porch - | + | |
- | " | + | |
- | As we sat on the front lawn, slurping and gulping the tea and | + | |
- | scones, our wonderful host came out, took one look at the bearded forms | + | |
- | of Ern and Neil and exclaimed, " | + | |
- | Were we offended? Not We were too busy scoffing down large | + | |
- | quantities of fresh scones and tea. | + | |
The End -- (Thank God) | The End -- (Thank God) | ||
Line 310: | Line 281: | ||
====== Bon Voyage To Wee McGregor ====== | ====== Bon Voyage To Wee McGregor ====== | ||
+ | We take much pride and pleasure in announcing that the National Bureau of Standards of the U.S.A. has invited Malcolm McGregor (and Elsa and wee Bobbie too) to visit the U.S. for seven months to convey to the American technicians the know how of recent developments in that branch of electronics in which the C.S.I.R.O. leads the world. Malcolm leaves by air on 25th September whilst Elsa and Bobbie follow in R.M.S. " | ||
+ | |||
+ | A "Bon Voyage" | ||
+ | |||
+ | The camp-fire will be lit about 6.45 so come early and have a chat to the departing travellers. The Lower income troupers should catch the 6.13 electric train from Central - tickets to Warrawee - thence by | ||
+ | Wahroonga Sanitarium bus the last of the day to the Mahratta Avenue turnoff (fare 6d - pay as you alight). | ||
- | We take much pride and pleasure in announcing that the National Bureau of Standards of the U.S.A. n.as invited Malcolm McGregor (and Elsa and wee Bobbie too) to visit ;he U.S. for seven months to convey to the American technicians the know-laow of recent developments in that branch of electronics in which the C.3.I.R.L, leads the world. Malcolm leaves by air on 25th September whilst Elsa and Bobbie follow in R.M.S. " | + | Would the Higher Income Groupers bring as many of the L.I.G.' |
- | -A "Bon Voyage" | + | To assist in the general arrangements, |
- | 9.45 a.m. and which coincides with the second day of the Saturday afternoon-Sunday walk. However, all attending are advised ;o bring their own tucker for supper but cocoa will be on ;ap. There are already rumours of heads being put together to concost a " | + | |
- | The camp-fire will be lit about 6.45 so come early and have a chat to the departing travellers. The Lower Income Ti-roupers should catch the 6.13 electric train from Central - tickets to Tarrawee - thence by | + | |
- | Wahroonga Sanitarium bus the last of the day) 7,o the Mahratta Avenue turnoff (fare 6d - pay as you alight). | + | |
- | bring as many of the L.I.G.' | + | |
- | To assist in the general arrangements, | + | |
- | coming to the camp-fire only and/or camping, please advise | + | |
====== Kossy '39 or Thereabouts ====== | ====== Kossy '39 or Thereabouts ====== | ||
- | -- Taro | + | Taro |
- | Our Dot and our _Duke (not according to Luke) | + | |
- | Once clumb up the trig pole at Kossy. | + | Our Dot and our Duke (not according to Luke)\\ |
- | Not a prank | + | Once clumb up the trig pole at Kossy.\\ |
- | Only swank. | + | Not a prank Only swank.\\ |
It couldn' | It couldn' | ||
- | They just would be atop of old Aussie. Alas! | + | |
- | The Shire Engineer | + | They just would be atop of old Aussie. Alas!\\ |
- | Was lapping his beer | + | The Shire Engineer Was lapping his beer\\ |
- | When he heard of this terrible crime-o He roared out Bejeese | + | When he heard of this terrible crime He roared out Bejeese\\ |
- | I'll tickle their knees | + | I'll tickle their knees\\ |
- | I'll teach 'elm to shin up our polo:, | + | I'll teach 'elm to shin up our pole\\ |
- | So they draped it o'er | + | So they draped it o'er\\ |
- | With barbed wire so raw, | + | With barbed wire so raw,\\ |
- | Who tries it again will find to their sorrow | + | |
+ | Who tries it again will find to their sorrow\\ | ||
In good red blood they' | In good red blood they' | ||
Line 342: | Line 314: | ||
Jim Hooper | Jim Hooper | ||
- | Although my archaeological confreres Professor Snoot, A.B.M.S., | + | |
- | and the Rt. Hon. Admiral The Luckdukus, S.D.W., S.G.M., could not | + | Although my archaeological confreres Professor Snoot, A.B.M.S., and the Rt. Hon. Admiral The Luckdukus, S.D.W., S.G.M., could not entirely agree with my current theories on the inclinations of the Paleolithic Bushwalker I find that I now have some cause for excitement in a recent discovery. |
- | entirely agree with my current theories on the inclinations of the Paleolithic Bushwalker I find that I now have some cause for excitement in a recent discovery. | + | |
- | During an exacting survey down the Kowmung River, I recently had | + | During an exacting survey down the Kowmung River, I recently had occasion to pause by a side creek which I took to be Church Creek. Unfortunately, |
- | occasion to pause by a side creek which I took to be Church Creek. Unfortunately, | + | |
so it must have been some other because anyway it was a day's walk further upstream opposite somewhere else. | so it must have been some other because anyway it was a day's walk further upstream opposite somewhere else. | ||
- | Lying there in the shade, listening to the musical chuckle of the | + | |
- | Kowmung babbling over the pebbles, I felt the need for a few moments | + | Lying there in the shade, listening to the musical chuckle of the Kowmung babbling over the pebbles, I felt the need for a few moments of rest. Survey work can be so exhausting. I watched the myriads of flies making very bad landings in the dappled patches of sunlight on my bare chest. The shade I was in was quite heavy so it was soon obvious that my sunburn was forcing them to make blind-landings. My heels were cooling |
- | of rest. Survey work can be so exhausting. I watched the myriads of . flies making very bad landings in the dappled patches of sunlight on my bare chest. The shade I was in was quite heavy so it was soon obvious that my sunburn was forcing them to make blind-landings. My heels were cool.ing | + | |
- | I didn't want the poor Little Bee to fall off and drown itself, | + | I didn't want the poor Little Bee to fall off and drown itself, |
- | There --- between my Big Toe and the other one was a Black Stump, THE Black Stump (Stumpus Charcundus), | + | |
- | Here, at last, I had made a discovery which was near to costing me my-. very life! Spitting water and gasping desperately for air as I swam through the seething rapids across the river, I suddenly realised that swimming with one Bee foot in the air was going to be my Kowmung | + | There between my Big Toe and the other one was a Black Stump, THE Black Stump (Stumpus Charcundus), |
- | spots and Dots --- My heart pounded and pumped --- This was IT -- This was the End. --- Blue fla9hes --- an agonising pain shot up through my leg --- AND then I saw RED --- The Little BEE had stung me: I lashed out with both my feet --- just to get even, and then I gave an incoherent moan as my nose rubbered and skidded to an abrupt | + | |
- | halt on a rock. | + | Here, at last, I had made a discovery which was near to costing me my very life! Spitting water and gasping desperately for air as I swam through the seething rapids across the river, I suddenly realised that swimming with one Bee foot in the air was going to be my Kowmung - I'd never make the Stumpus Charcundus on the other side: Down, down, down I went; I spluttered and swallowed more water -I must have AIR! - Lights flashed before my eyes, green, yellow circles, spots and Dots --- My heart pounded and pumped --- This was IT -- This was the End. --- Blue flashes |
- | The coloured flashes had stopped, but my heart was still thudding and pounding as I lay with an arm around the rock sobbing in great gulps of pure air. Silence pervaded the river, and then gradually I | + | |
- | came to hear the chuckling of the water over the pebbles. Again I heard the buzzing of the flies. I looked at my sunburn and found that it had turned PURPLE --- a clear cut case for a new heart. | + | The coloured flashes had stopped, but my heart was still thudding and pounding as I lay with an arm around the rock sobbing in great gulps of pure air. Silence pervaded the river, and then gradually I came to hear the chuckling of the water over the pebbles. Again I heard the buzzing of the flies. I looked at my sunburn and found that it had turned PURPLE --- a clear cut case for a new heart. |
- | Looming dark and majestic, just a few feet above me on the bank, stood the Stumpus Charcundus. There before | + | |
- | 17. | + | Looming dark and majestic, just a few feet above me on the bank, stood the Stumpus Charcundus. There before |
- | years and years of research. There lay the answer to our theories. Now our knowledge of Bushwalkers of the Paleolithic | + | |
- | be extended. What were they like? How did they walk, and what did | + | Distantly, I heard the rumble of Thunder. The skies were clouding |
- | they think? | + | side of the river. I nearly died of fright as a bolt of lightning |
- | Distantly, I heard the rumble of Thunder. The skies were cloudinG, | + | and scrabbled up the river bank. The water dripped about my feet as I gazed, a little awe-struck, across at the Stumpus. More water dripped from my shoulders and then I realised that it was coming in big slow drops from the sky. Thunder rattled close-by, and I could hear boulders slithering down the hillside. The storm was very near. |
- | side of the river. I nearly died of fright as a bolt of Lightning | + | |
- | Still trembling from my exertions, I lurched out of the water | + | Looming darkly against its background, the Stumpus stood some 40 feet in front of me in a small clearing surrounded by gigantic boulders set back from the river-bank. Standing 9 axe-handles high, and some |
- | and scrabbled up the river bank. The water dripped about my feet as I gazed, a little awe-struck, across at the Stumpus. More water | + | 4 axe-handles in girth, the Stumpus looked like a burnt-out " |
- | dripped from my shoulders and then I realised that it was coming in big slow drops from the sky. Thunder rattled close-by, and I could hear boulders slithering down the hillside. The storm was very near. | + | |
- | Looming darkly against its background, the Stumpus stood some 40 feet in front of me in a small clearing surrounded by gigantic boulders set back from the river-bank. Standing 9 ax-handles high, and some | + | A hot sizzling flash engulfed the clearing, and I gulped hard. The Stumpus seemed to jump out at me. Momentarily I was stunned, and then I realised that the lightning had discharged itself beyond the Stumpus, and it's shadow had actually been thrown across my face. I stepped forward again, only to falter involuntarily when the earth trembled and rebounded to the roar of thunder as my foot touched the ground. A tree toppled over the hillside and a boulder crashed through the undergrowth then hurtled a few yards to one side of me into the river. I had a sense of something foreboding. I was half-minded to |
- | 4 axe-handles in girth, the Stumpus looked like a burnt-out " | + | |
- | Admiral. | + | |
- | A hot sizzling flash engulfed the clearing, and I gulped hard. The Stumpus seemed to jump out at me. Momentarily I was stunned, and then I realised that the lightning had discharged itself beyond the Stumpus, and it's shadow had actually been thrown across my face. I | + | |
- | stepped forward again, only to falter involuntarily when the earth trembled and rebounded to the roar of thunder as my foot touched the ground. A tree toppled over the hillside and a boulder crashed through the undergrowth then hurtled a few yards to one side of me into the | + | |
- | river. I had a sense of something foreboding. I was half-minded to | + | |
turn and race back to camp. The rain was pouring down in a deluge, icy cold and bringing one almost to a state of shivering. | turn and race back to camp. The rain was pouring down in a deluge, icy cold and bringing one almost to a state of shivering. | ||
- | My back hair started to tingle and I looked hastily over my | + | |
- | shoulder to see an eerie ball of fire floating towards me. A Fire-Ball | + | My back hair started to tingle and I looked hastily over my shoulder to see an eerie ball of fire floating towards me. A Fire-Ball charged with a million volts of electricity --- and it was coming straight at me: Frantically, |
- | charged with a million volts of electricity --- and it was | + | |
- | coming straight at me: Frantically, | + | Down, down, down I went, into a dark abyss. Jarringly I stopped, sprawled in a heap and completely winded. The earth roared and shook to the explosion of the Fire-Ball somewhere outside. The ear-drums felt as if they would burst at the horrifying crashes and explosions. The wild craziness outside the Stumpus wasn't exactly conducive to a peaceful recovery. The first stock-take of my surroundings told me that I was sprawled on soft sandy earth, with my chin resting beside a small rock. My hand explored the outline of the rock. It wasn't a rock --- it felt like a boot --- it was a boot! Lightning thundered outside and in a brief flash of light I caught a glimpse of a pair of boots. One boot had a long white shaft of bone in it. No Fibia. |
- | feet for the opening in the Stumpus Charcundus. Thunder roared unceasingly. The Fire-Ball was drifting fast, over and behind my right shoulder. With only three more feet to go, I dived desperately for | + | |
- | the dark opening of the Stunpus. | + | Profoundly shocked, and not just a little horrified, I quickly, very quickly rose to my hands and knees, and waited for the next flash of lighting. Sure enough, there was a pair of boots --- very old and with rust marks, where there may have been hobs. From one boot there protruded a long white bone. In a succession of lightning flashes, I dimly made out the interior of the Stumpus. Although my desperate dive had given me the impression that I had fallen a great distance to the floor, I found that the bottom of the opening was only four feet above me. Apprehensively, |
- | Down, down, down I went, into a dark abyss. Jarringly I stopped, sprawled in a heap and completely winded. The earth roared and shook to the explosion of the Fire-Ball somewhere outside. The ear-drums felt as if they would burst at the horrifying crashes and explosions. | + | |
- | The wild craziness outside the Stumpus wasn't exactly conducive | + | |
- | to a peaceful recovery. The first stock-take of my surroundings told | + | |
- | me that I was sprawled on soft sandy earth, with my chin resting beside a small rock. My hand explored the outline of the rock. | + | |
- | 18, | + | |
- | It wasn't a rock --- it felt like a boot --- it was a boott Lightning thundered outside and in a brief flash of light I caught a glimpse of a pair of boots. One boot had a long white shaft of bone in it. No FibiaL | + | |
- | Profoundly shocked, and not just a little horrified, I quickly, very quickly rose to my hands and knees, and waited for'the next flash of lighting. Sure enough, there was a pair of boots --- very old and with rust marks, where there may have been hobs. From one boot there protruded a long white bone. In a succession of lightning flashes, I dimly made out the interior of the Stumpus. Although my desperate dive had given me the impression that I had fallen a great distance to the floor, I found that the bottom of the opening was only four feet above me. Apprehensively, | + | |
I grasped a gnarled projection in the side of the opening through the Stumpus and started to climb out. Suddenly an enormous flash of lightning burst right outside. I dropped back to the floor. What to | I grasped a gnarled projection in the side of the opening through the Stumpus and started to climb out. Suddenly an enormous flash of lightning burst right outside. I dropped back to the floor. What to | ||
- | do? This was going to be nasty again. When outside I would be at the | + | do? This was going to be nasty again. When outside I would be at the full mercy of the elements, and it was now dark, The rain had stopped, if that was any consolation, |
- | full mercy of the elements, and it was now dark, The rain had stopped, if that was any consolation, | + | |
- | meant that the storm was still less than a fifth of a mile away. Standing there in the alternating flashes of night and day, my | + | |
- | hands rested on the shelf of earth leading out of the Stumpus. It was hard to decide. Would it be safe to make a run for it? | + | |
- | At something of a loss at what to do, my eye suddenly caught the | + | |
- | reflection of something white along the shelf to the left of my hand. Surprised, I reached out and grasped a roll of paper, a Papyrus, looking somewhat perforated, but nevertheless, | + | |
- | With mounting excitement I could make out figures and characters on the outside of the scroll, I looked closely as the lightning flashed, and then I let out a sharp yelp of paint That part of any | + | |
- | anatomy which invariably follows me wherever I go$ had just received | + | |
- | an appalling blow. I looked quickly ,behind and the Boots and the Bone were no longer lying in the Centre of the floor. | + | |
- | To my horror, they were standing stiffly to attention in the opposite corner of the Stumpus. Another roar of thunder; another | + | |
- | flash of lightning, and I quickly saw that more trouble was afoot. The Boot with the Bone was rising fast, and coming at MB with a deliberate | + | |
- | intent. Giving another inadvertent, | + | |
- | raced for the river-bank. Dazzled by lightning, I slipped and fell | + | |
- | headlong under a bush. No, no, no - the scroll, the manuscript. It must go back to the club; | + | At something of a loss at what to do, my eye suddenly caught the reflection of something white along the shelf to the left of my hand. Surprised, I reached out and grasped a roll of paper, a Papyrus, looking somewhat perforated, but nevertheless, |
- | Warily my footsteps retraced themselves back to the Stumpus. | + | |
- | How could one possibly get back inside to recover the scroll? Lightning flashed again; followed by a grunt of relief --- there was the scroll on the ground just two feet In front of the opening, | + | With mounting excitement I could make out figures and characters on the outside of the scroll, I looked closely as the lightning flashed, and then I let out a sharp yelp of pain. That part of any anatomy which invariably follows me wherever I go had just received an appalling blow. I looked quickly behind and the Boots and the Bone were no longer lying in the Centre of the floor. |
- | Lightning sizzled across the black void of the river. Keeping my head down, I glimpsed a clear way to the river-bank. Crash: -- - Another boulder tumbled and shattered its way over the hillside. Quickly, I shuffled across and then down to the water' | + | |
+ | To my horror, they were standing stiffly to attention in the opposite corner of the Stumpus. Another roar of thunder; another flash of lightning, and I quickly saw that more trouble was afoot. The Boot with the Bone was rising fast, and coming at me with a deliberate intent. Giving another inadvertent, | ||
+ | |||
+ | Warily my footsteps retraced themselves back to the Stumpus. How could one possibly get back inside to recover the scroll? Lightning flashed again; followed by a grunt of relief --- there was the scroll on the ground just two feet in front of the opening, | ||
+ | |||
+ | Lightning sizzled across the black void of the river. Keeping my head down, I glimpsed a clear way to the river-bank. Crash. Another boulder tumbled and shattered its way over the hillside. Quickly, I shuffled across and then down to the water' | ||
I looked back over my shoulder to the Stumpus. Oh, NO The Stumpus was all aglow. It was luminescing all round. Every detail of it was standing out in a faint blue glow, whilst a fiery red light seemed to be coming from the entrance to the Stumpus. I must get away quickly. | I looked back over my shoulder to the Stumpus. Oh, NO The Stumpus was all aglow. It was luminescing all round. Every detail of it was standing out in a faint blue glow, whilst a fiery red light seemed to be coming from the entrance to the Stumpus. I must get away quickly. | ||
- | Standing there in the water' | + | |
- | My hat was sti:1 somewhere on the floor of the Stumpus. How the devil was I going to keep the Manuscript dry if I had to swim across? I looked back at the Stumpus --- the blue glow seemed to be flickering up and down, on and off, and getting brighter every time it came on | + | Standing there in the water' |
- | Edging the way upstream a little, I held the manuscript clear of | + | |
- | the surging waters. Something brushed past my face --- inspiration | + | My hat was still somewhere on the floor of the Stumpus. How the devil was I going to keep the Manuscript dry if I had to swim across? I looked back at the Stumpus --- the blue glow seemed to be flickering up and down, on and off, and getting brighter every time it came on. |
- | --- and I grabbed a branch of the offending tree. With a bit of effort, | + | |
- | a stick broke off. Pushing it through the roll of the manuscript, I | + | Edging the way upstream a little, I held the manuscript clear of the surging waters. Something brushed past my face --- inspiration --- and I grabbed a branch of the offending tree. With a bit of effort, |
- | had an effective carrier --- provided I could hold it in my teeth, and keep my head above water. | + | a stick broke off. Pushing it through the roll of the manuscript, I had an effective carrier --- provided I could hold it in my teeth, and keep my head above water. |
- | A blueish-black-light (Ultra-violet) seemed to be forming into a | + | |
- | vapour around the Stumpus. I could delay no longer. Reaching forward | + | A blueish-black-light (Ultra-violet) seemed to be forming into a vapour around the Stumpus. I could delay no longer. Reaching forward into the dark waters, I started out with the strongest breast-stroke I |
- | into the dark waters, I started out with the strongest breast-stroke I | + | |
could muster. The Manuscript was only a few inches above the surface. | could muster. The Manuscript was only a few inches above the surface. | ||
- | (Will the precious Manuscript be carried safely across the river? That | + | |
- | stupendous information is hidden in its weird characters? What is the | + | (Will the precious Manuscript be carried safely across the river? That stupendous information is hidden in its weird characters? What is the eerie secret of the Stumpus Charcundus and its ancient inmate? What |
- | 0 eerie secret of the Stumpus Charcundus and its ancient inmate? What | + | has happened to the Stumpus since its sacred precincts have been violated? You can't afford to miss the answers to these challenging and exciting questions. Be sure of your next month' |
- | has happened to the Stumpus since its sacred precincts have been viol- | + | |
- | ated? You can't afford to miss the answers to these challenging and exciting questions. Be sure of your next month' | + | |
gripping instalment -- Ed.) | gripping instalment -- Ed.) | ||
Line 430: | Line 380: | ||
Brian Anderson, | Brian Anderson, | ||
Walks Secretary. | Walks Secretary. | ||
- | The Club's walking activities began well this month when three trips-onthe | + | |
- | I'm sure any trip led by the Dalai Lama could not run smoothly | + | The Club's walking activities began well this month when three trips on the first weekend enticed thirty walkers to go " |
The Saturday walk prospectives Neville Picton and David Bennett joined Keith Renwick on his walk from Faulconbridge to Richmond. Keith reported they were fortunate enough to leave the Grose near an Orange | The Saturday walk prospectives Neville Picton and David Bennett joined Keith Renwick on his walk from Faulconbridge to Richmond. Keith reported they were fortunate enough to leave the Grose near an Orange | ||
- | orchard where the Orchardist gave them laods of oranges, | + | orchard where the Orchardist gave them loads of oranges, |
- | To cover the Sunday walk I'll quote from the leader' | + | |
- | report. "Owing to the Official Leader being on the Sick List, the walk | + | To cover the Sunday walk I'll quote from the leader' |
- | was taken by the President who reported that the party was the dirtiest he had ever led. This, however, was no reflection on the moral character but was entirely due to the fact that they traversed about 10 miles | + | |
- | of recently burnt-out scrub, arriving back at Cowan Station like a batch of Arnhem Land natives." | + | After a week of procrastination, |
- | Fifteen attended, comprising 8 members, 4 prospectives and 3 visitors, | + | |
- | After a week of procrastination, | + | You will have to excuse me if the report on the other trip does not seem coherent, because I had difficulty in establishing many facts. As for finding a leader, that was impossible |
- | with 5 members ventured from Kanangra Walls via Strongleg and Breakfast Creek to Katoomba. | + | |
- | Myself with two members and one prospective set out from Katoomba to Splendour Rock with the intention of returning via the Cox and Megalong Valley. However the party developed a guilty conscience, returning via such an easy way and so pressed on up Harry' | + | |
- | You will have to excuse me if the report on the other trip does not seem coherent, because I had difficulty in establishing many facts. As | + | |
- | for finding a leader, that was impossible | + | |
- | the responsibility. Nevertheless it has been established that 21 bods attended and that parties had climbed Pidgeon House, Talaterang and The Castle. Puzzling rumours such as Snow Brown losing his way going up Pidgeon House and having to undress have been reported. God only | + | |
- | knows why he had to undress. Then Frank Rigby and George Gray were 0 | + | |
- | unable to find Drury' | + | |
Pidgeon House and the Castle with the result they were unable to find them on the Monday. As stated before the trip seemed a little incoherent. | Pidgeon House and the Castle with the result they were unable to find them on the Monday. As stated before the trip seemed a little incoherent. | ||
- | The next weekend although there were two Saturday morning walks, only one started, David Brown' | ||
- | 21. | ||
- | due to 1,acl, of starters. The other walk went as planned, Joan Walker being aCcbiTlpanied by 4 members and one prospective. An interesting exploration of the lower 'part of ' | ||
- | Two memberS and two-pro-spective' | ||
- | During the last weekend of June only two walks started, the Sat, | ||
- | trip being called off due to lack of starters. The Friday night walk | ||
- | went as planned, Henry Gold's party consisting of 3 femalemembers and pne prospective, | ||
- | !charm similar to Frank Rigby as Henry became the second leader over tlie ;last few months to be nearly caught with an all female party. However Meville Picton came to the rescue to make things right. Also on this | ||
- | ftrip Bev. Price narked everyone by slipping off the top of one of the' pany smooth waterfalls in Galong Creek and began slowly and majestically Blipping down the face, only to stop two inches from the water. It'd, 'types like t4eb9 who make frustrated photographers, | ||
- | --6 | ||
- | 1; i | ||
- | 11bbl' -di VA* | ||
- | 0 e , May walk in the Galston Gorge district had a | ||
- | 'xoll call Of' membersi, 4 pliotpostives and one visitor. The walk pro- | ||
- | ' | ||
- | :ceeded as prograMmO, | ||
- | |||
- | A iS6,, | ||
- | Finally the months walking tally sixty-nine members, sixteen | ||
+ | The next weekend although there were two Saturday morning walks, only one started, David Brown' | ||
- | prospectives and four visitors, a total of eighty-nine, | + | Two members and two prospectives joined the President on his Sunday walk in the Era-Burning Palms area. Brian reported that the main coastal ridge from Port Hacking to Burning Palms has been burnt out. |
+ | During the last weekend of June only two walks started, the Sat, trip being called off due to lack of starters. The Friday night walk went as planned, Henry Gold's party consisting of 3 female members and one prospective, | ||
+ | |||
+ | John Noble on his Sunday walk in the Galston Gorge district had a roll call of 8 members and 4 prospectives and one visitor. The walk proceeded as programmed. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Finally the months walking tally sixty-nine members, sixteen | ||
====== Federation Report ====== | ====== Federation Report ====== | ||
Line 475: | Line 406: | ||
JULY 1957 -- Ron Knightley Annual General Meeting, | JULY 1957 -- Ron Knightley Annual General Meeting, | ||
- | After the reading of Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting, the Secretary presented his Annual Report. Among other items was the information that average attendance of delegates to meetings | + | After the reading of Minutes of the previous Annual Meeting, the Secretary presented his Annual Report. Among other items was the information that average attendance of delegates to meetings during the year had been 15 and that " |
- | during the year had been 15 and that " | + | |
- | CONSERVATION REPORT: A, detailed conservation report was highlighted by three items: | + | CONSERVATION REPORT: A, detailed conservation report was highlighted by three items:\\ |
- | (i) Formation of the National Parks Assoc. of N.S.W. in early | + | (i) Formation of the National Parks Assoc. of N.S.W. in early 1957.\\ |
- | 1957. | + | (ii) Approval by the Minister for Lands of the 28,000 acre faunal reserve at Nadgee.\\ |
- | (ii) Approval by the Minister for Lands of the 28,000 acre | + | (iii)The perennial proposal for the Blue Mountains National Park has progressed, and the inter-departmental committee has recommended the dedication of about 50,000 square miles of the Grose, Megalong, and Jamieson Valleys plus portion of the Blue Labyrinth, with a further portion of the Blue Labyrinth as an aforestation reserve. |
- | faunal reserve at Naslgee. | + | |
- | (iii)The perennial proposal for the Blue Mountains National Park has progressed, and the inter-departmental committee | + | TREASURER' |
- | has recommended the dedication of about 50,000 square miles of the Grose, Megalong, and Jamieson Valleys plus portion of the Blue Labyrinth, with a further portion of the Blue Labyrinth as an aforestation reserve. | + | |
- | TREASURER' | + | |
- | accepted. | + | |
ELECTION OF OFFICERS: The following officers were elected all unopposed - for 1957-58: | ELECTION OF OFFICERS: The following officers were elected all unopposed - for 1957-58: | ||
- | President: Mr. Paul Driver (Rover Ramblers) | + | President: Mr. Paul Driver (Rover Ramblers)\\ |
- | Vice Presidents: Mr. Stan Cottier (C.M.W.) | + | Vice Presidents: Mr. Stan Cottier (C.M.W.), Mr. Paul Barnes (S.B.W.)\\ |
- | Mr. Paul Barnes (S.D.W.) | + | Secretary: Mr. Ken Stewart (Rover Ramblers)\\ |
- | Secretary: Mr. Ken Stewart (Rover Ramblers) | + | Asst. Secty: Miss Joan Meaher (S.U.B.W.)\\ |
- | Asst. Secty: Miss Joan Meaher (S.U.B.W.) | + | Treasurer: Mr. Gordon Robinson (Bush Club)\\ |
- | Treasurer: Mr. Gordon Robinson (Bush Club) | + | |
Min. Sec: Mr, Ron Knightley (S.B.U.) | Min. Sec: Mr, Ron Knightley (S.B.U.) | ||
- | AFFILDITION | + | |
- | GENERAL BUSINESS: The following motion was tabled, as instructed by the S.B.W. General Meeting a week before: "That the Federation consider its position and procetpares | + | AFFILAITION |
- | apathy towards Federation, it was decided to refer the matter to the individual clubs, with clubs whose delegates were not at the | + | |
+ | GENERAL BUSINESS: The following motion was tabled, as instructed by the S.B.W. General Meeting a week before: "That the Federation consider its position and procedures | ||
Annual Meeting to be circularised by the Secretary. | Annual Meeting to be circularised by the Secretary. | ||
- | Monthly Meeting for Juga | + | Monthly Meeting for July. This followed immediately upon the annual meeting. |
- | This followed immediately upon the annual meeting. | + | |
- | DONATIONS: One pound was voted to Mr. T.W. Moppett to defray expenses of the Conservation Conference held in June, and 10, to the N.P.t.. towards the cost of producing " | + | |
- | FEDERATION BALL: A reminder -- Sydney University Refectory Friday, Sept. 13th, 8.30 p.m. Tickets 1.1.- each. Supper to | + | |
- | include cocktail pasties, etc. Bring own refreshments. | + | |
- | TREASURER' | + | |
- | castle Technical College Bushwalkers after the Barrington Tops Search episode. | + | |
- | 70' 7- | + | |
+ | DONATIONS: One pound was voted to Mr. T.W. Moppett to defray expenses of the Conservation Conference held in June, and £10 to the N.P.A. towards the cost of producing " | ||
- | S. & R.-LEVEE. Decided that 50% of profits from the forthcoming ball, or 25 " | + | FEDERATION BALL: A reminder -- Sydney University Refectory Friday, Sept. 13th, 8.30 p.m. Tickets £1.1.- each. Supper to include cocktail pasties, etc. Bring own refreshments. |
- | No levee to be made on clubs at present. | + | |
- | BARREN GROUNDS - cows on: Resolved that the Secretary write to the Chief.Guar4ian | + | TREASURER' |
- | ple.onthe Darren | + | |
+ | S. & R.-LEVEE. Decided that 50% of profits from the forthcoming ball, or £25 " | ||
+ | |||
+ | BARREN GROUNDS - cows on: Resolved that the Secretary write to the Chief Guardian | ||
+ | |||
+ | ------------- | ||
PENALTIES OF SIN | PENALTIES OF SIN | ||
- | Ohl It is a fearful sin | ||
- | To leave, | ||
- | And may he have three: | ||
- | Who scatters paper bags | ||
- | Who thows his rubbish_ tnwbh the trees | ||
- | -Shall suffer water on th6:kneet, | ||
- | Andi,he who sets the bush' afire | ||
- | _Shaj.l, tear his trousers on barbed wire? | ||
- | Paddy' | + | Oh! It is a fearful sin\\ |
- | Paddy has gone off once again to the wilderness, this time to Ski from Kiandra to Koscuisko (surely this doesn' | + | To leave behind one empty\\ |
- | Paddy' | + | And may he have three kinds gout\\ |
- | How long is it since you've been to Paddy' | + | Who scatters paper bags\\ |
- | A visit to Paddy' | + | Who throws his rubbish in the trees\\ |
+ | Shall suffer water on the knees,\\ | ||
+ | And he who sets the bush afire\\ | ||
+ | Shall tear his trousers on barbed wire? | ||
+ | |||
+ | Paddy' | ||
+ | Paddy has gone off once again to the wilderness, this time to Ski from Kiandra to Koscuisko (surely this doesn' | ||
+ | |||
+ | Paddy' | ||
+ | A visit to Paddy' | ||
195708.1459911310.txt.gz · Last modified: 2016/04/06 12:55 by kennettj