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 =====The Sydney Bushwalker.===== =====The Sydney Bushwalker.=====
  
-A monthly bulletin-of matters of interest to the Sydney Bush Walkers, The N.S.W. Nurses' Association Rooms, "Northcote Building", Reiby Place, Sydney. Box No. 4476 G.P.O., Sydney. 'Phone JW1462.+A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to the Sydney Bush Walkers, The N.S.W. Nurses' Association Rooms, "Northcote Building", Reiby Place, Sydney. Box No. 4476 G.P.O., Sydney. 'Phone JW1462.
  
 ====324 December 1961. Price 1/-==== ====324 December 1961. Price 1/-====
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 | | |Page| | | |Page|
-|Walker's Christmas|Geaf Wagg| 1|+|Walker's Christmas|Geof Wagg| 1|
 |Social Calendar| | 2| |Social Calendar| | 2|
 |At Our November Meeting|Alex Colley| 3| |At Our November Meeting|Alex Colley| 3|
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 |Come to Kuring-gai Chase|"The Gent in the Tent"| 4| |Come to Kuring-gai Chase|"The Gent in the Tent"| 4|
 |On the Sense of the Meeting|"Thornigbah"| 6| |On the Sense of the Meeting|"Thornigbah"| 6|
-|Kowmung Cavalcade Part III. "Floating Down the Kowmmung|Bill Hall (Reprint)| 8|+|Kowmung Cavalcade Part III. "Floating Down the Kowmung|Bill Hall (Reprint)| 8|
 |Pubcraft|Alex Colley|14| |Pubcraft|Alex Colley|14|
 |Tales of the North Shore|"Taro"|16| |Tales of the North Shore|"Taro"|16|
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 =====Social Calendar.===== =====Social Calendar.=====
  
-|December 20th|Free night. Come in and makee last minute arrangements for that Christmas trip, or just to natter.|+|December 20th|Free night. Come in and make last minute arrangements for that Christmas trip, or just to natter.|
 |December 27th|Club closed.| |December 27th|Club closed.|
 |January 3rd|Committee meeting, but don't let this keep you away. A good chance to earbash your friends about your latest epic walk.| |January 3rd|Committee meeting, but don't let this keep you away. A good chance to earbash your friends about your latest epic walk.|
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 Five new members - Sandra Montague, Sheila Tadman, Peggy Woolhouse, Bill Rowlands and Ramon U'Brien - were welcomed at the start of the meeting. Five new members - Sandra Montague, Sheila Tadman, Peggy Woolhouse, Bill Rowlands and Ramon U'Brien - were welcomed at the start of the meeting.
  
-In correspondence was a copy of a letter sent by the Secretary of Federation to the Fire Prevention Officer at Katoomba, saying that there was no evidence that bushwarkers were responsible for the cutting of fence wires at Medlow Gap. The officer was invited to the S. and R. weekend at the Colo where he could witness for himself the "impeccability of our behaviour". A letter was received also from the Secretary of the Bouddi Trust, saying that the Trust agreed with the construction of a fire trail to Mount Bouddi. The Trust also recognised the necessity of proving to the Lards Department that many people used and enjoyed the park. By making the park accessible to the motorist other important areas might be gained for the park and it might be less vulnerable to dangers from other sources. The Trust was always glad to receive any suggestions and thoughts that conservationists had to offer.+In correspondence was a copy of a letter sent by the Secretary of Federation to the Fire Prevention Officer at Katoomba, saying that there was no evidence that bushwalkers were responsible for the cutting of fence wires at Medlow Gap. The officer was invited to the S. and R. weekend at the Colo where he could witness for himself the "impeccability of our behaviour". A letter was received also from the Secretary of the Bouddi Trust, saying that the Trust agreed with the construction of a fire trail to Mount Bouddi. The Trust also recognised the necessity of proving to the Lards Department that many people used and enjoyed the park. By making the park accessible to the motorist other important areas might be gained for the park and it might be less vulnerable to dangers from other sources. The Trust was always glad to receive any suggestions and thoughts that conservationists had to offer.
  
 Heather Joyce than told us that the S.B.W. were among Federation's most consistent correspondents. Why couldn't the delegates pass on our views? There appeared no good reason for writing letters, beyond habit, and it was decided to avoid letter writing where possible. Heather told us of Colin Putt's good work at the S. and R. weekend. Jack Gentle also offered thanks to those who helped at the Blue Gum working bee. Heather Joyce than told us that the S.B.W. were among Federation's most consistent correspondents. Why couldn't the delegates pass on our views? There appeared no good reason for writing letters, beyond habit, and it was decided to avoid letter writing where possible. Heather told us of Colin Putt's good work at the S. and R. weekend. Jack Gentle also offered thanks to those who helped at the Blue Gum working bee.
  
-Wilf Hilder reported that despite a rather hot weekend all objectives, except the finding of Barron's Pass, had been achieved on his 6-hour weehend walk. The Timbolina Trig had been burnt down, but on the disc some pencilled names were partly legible. They were the names of an S.B,W. party that had visited the trig in 1944 - Tom Herbert, Charlie Pryde, Dorothy Lawry, Wal Roots and Phil White. There were two starters on Roy Cragg's Nattai walk, and 15 on Bob Godfrey's map reading venture down Angarowa Creek. The party had reached the Colo successfully, but didn't attempt the 8 mile or more trip down to Hungry Way Creek. Jack Gentle had led a party of 10 along the Cox and up the White Dog track. John White and two prospectives had a good weekend around the Narrow Neck Peninsula and reported that the climbing tree was still in position. There were 15 starters on David Ingram's day walk in the Heathcote reserve. The S. & R. weekend on the Colo had been remarkably well organised. It started with introductory talks by Nin Melville and Heather Joyce and covered first aid, wet crossings, safety in canoes, survival in the bush, bush rescue, ground to air communication, caveing and safety in caves, and aqualung under water operations. Colin Putt gave a talk on safety and equipment in the snow and another on cliff rescue work, and Paddy Pallin talked on snow equipment.+Wilf Hilder reported that despite a rather hot weekend all objectives, except the finding of Barron's Pass, had been achieved on his 6-hour weekend walk. The Timbolina Trig had been burnt down, but on the disc some pencilled names were partly legible. They were the names of an S.B,W. party that had visited the trig in 1944 - Tom Herbert, Charlie Pryde, Dorothy Lawry, Wal Roots and Phil White. There were two starters on Roy Cragg's Nattai walk, and 15 on Bob Godfrey's map reading venture down Angarowa Creek. The party had reached the Colo successfully, but didn't attempt the 8 mile or more trip down to Hungry Way Creek. Jack Gentle had led a party of 10 along the Cox and up the White Dog track. John White and two prospectives had a good weekend around the Narrow Neck Peninsula and reported that the climbing tree was still in position. There were 15 starters on David Ingram's day walk in the Heathcote reserve. The S. & R. weekend on the Colo had been remarkably well organised. It started with introductory talks by Nin Melville and Heather Joyce and covered first aid, wet crossings, safety in canoes, survival in the bush, bush rescue, ground to air communication, caveing and safety in caves, and aqualung under water operations. Colin Putt gave a talk on safety and equipment in the snow and another on cliff rescue work, and Paddy Pallin talked on snow equipment.
  
 Room stewards were then elected and the meeting closed just after 9 o'clock. Room stewards were then elected and the meeting closed just after 9 o'clock.
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 In the early days of its existence, the Trust soon got busy constructing access roads and tracks. The access tracks were made chiefly by manual labour and were designed to permit walking to various beauty spots by ladies wearing ankle length and longer skirts, and gentlemen in their Sunday suits. The result was that they were from 2 to 3 ft. wide, well graded and complete with steps where necessary. I do not propose to list the various access tracks throughout the Chase, but to confine my remarks to those in the Lovett Bay, Pittwater, sector of the Chase. In the early days of its existence, the Trust soon got busy constructing access roads and tracks. The access tracks were made chiefly by manual labour and were designed to permit walking to various beauty spots by ladies wearing ankle length and longer skirts, and gentlemen in their Sunday suits. The result was that they were from 2 to 3 ft. wide, well graded and complete with steps where necessary. I do not propose to list the various access tracks throughout the Chase, but to confine my remarks to those in the Lovett Bay, Pittwater, sector of the Chase.
  
-In those days, I'm told, the principal methods of approach to Pitttater were from Manly Wharf by horse bus or coach to Mona Vale or Newport, or by train to Hawkesbury River Station and steam launch to Barrenjoey (Palm Beach) and Newport. This method of travel was slow, so that after undertaking the journey, visitors usually stayed a few days and had time to explore the surroundings. The Trust constructed stone wharves in various bays off Pittwater, and from these, tracks were made to local beauty spots.+In those days, I'm told, the principal methods of approach to Pittwater were from Manly Wharf by horse bus or coach to Mona Vale or Newport, or by train to Hawkesbury River Station and steam launch to Barrenjoey (Palm Beach) and Newport. This method of travel was slow, so that after undertaking the journey, visitors usually stayed a few days and had time to explore the surroundings. The Trust constructed stone wharves in various bays off Pittwater, and from these, tracks were made to local beauty spots.
  
 From the Trust's wharf at Lovett Bay (served by regular ferry from Church Point) a track runs along the foreshore to a shelter shed, where it divides, one continuing up the Bay to Pockley's Glen then up and over the West Head Road and down to Coal and Candle Creek; the other climbs up to the Flagstaff Lookout, 400 ft. above sea level, whence a cairned route leads North-Westerly to the West Head Road. With the increasing use of motor cars and water craft for weekend recreation, the decrease in the number of walkers, plus the rather steep bus and ferry fares to and from Church Point, the use of these tracks has declined. The Trust is aware of this fact and also knows that most of it is revenue comes from parking fees paid by motorists who use the roads constructed by it. Consequently, the tracks have not been maintained and have been allowed to become choked by grass, ferns and young trees. The local residents say that the Trust is re-constructing the West Head Road to a standard suitable for motor traffic, with the result that these tracks up from Towler's Bay and Mackerel Beach will shortly become our only means of reaching the West Head Peninsula free from motor traffic. From the Trust's wharf at Lovett Bay (served by regular ferry from Church Point) a track runs along the foreshore to a shelter shed, where it divides, one continuing up the Bay to Pockley's Glen then up and over the West Head Road and down to Coal and Candle Creek; the other climbs up to the Flagstaff Lookout, 400 ft. above sea level, whence a cairned route leads North-Westerly to the West Head Road. With the increasing use of motor cars and water craft for weekend recreation, the decrease in the number of walkers, plus the rather steep bus and ferry fares to and from Church Point, the use of these tracks has declined. The Trust is aware of this fact and also knows that most of it is revenue comes from parking fees paid by motorists who use the roads constructed by it. Consequently, the tracks have not been maintained and have been allowed to become choked by grass, ferns and young trees. The local residents say that the Trust is re-constructing the West Head Road to a standard suitable for motor traffic, with the result that these tracks up from Towler's Bay and Mackerel Beach will shortly become our only means of reaching the West Head Peninsula free from motor traffic.
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 When Tuglow Hole Creek was reached a halt was called far lurch. After eating and swimming, we picked our may over water-worn granite boulders through scrub to a canyon. Here the way seemed barred. There appeared nothing else to do but to go up and over the cliffs at either side, or - as we had heard of the exploits of a previous party - to float our packs through. We had come prepared for this latter prospect and rubber floats had been brought in anticipation of carrying our gear over the water. A raft was made by lashing together light pieces of timber, the rubber surfo-planes were placed on it, and on top of these the packs. It was successful, but took too long to construct, and, as events turned out, at the gorges we had to swim through later, there was a scarcity of suitable timber, so the idea of rafts was abandoned and the wrapping of groundsheets over our packs was resorted to. Two other pools were swum in this manner this same day, even though one or two of the packs received a slight wetting, it was pronounced most successful. From the last pool, which was about 75 yards long, the party reached Morong Falls, and split up, some camping on the Kowmung and the others on the creek above the Falls, thus making their walk to Jenolan Caves shorter for the next day. The night proved very warm and all at the river camp slept badly, partly owing to the heat and partly to the poor camping ground. Bracken and scrub had to be cleared and soil levelled to make possible the abdulling of a tent. When Tuglow Hole Creek was reached a halt was called far lurch. After eating and swimming, we picked our may over water-worn granite boulders through scrub to a canyon. Here the way seemed barred. There appeared nothing else to do but to go up and over the cliffs at either side, or - as we had heard of the exploits of a previous party - to float our packs through. We had come prepared for this latter prospect and rubber floats had been brought in anticipation of carrying our gear over the water. A raft was made by lashing together light pieces of timber, the rubber surfo-planes were placed on it, and on top of these the packs. It was successful, but took too long to construct, and, as events turned out, at the gorges we had to swim through later, there was a scarcity of suitable timber, so the idea of rafts was abandoned and the wrapping of groundsheets over our packs was resorted to. Two other pools were swum in this manner this same day, even though one or two of the packs received a slight wetting, it was pronounced most successful. From the last pool, which was about 75 yards long, the party reached Morong Falls, and split up, some camping on the Kowmung and the others on the creek above the Falls, thus making their walk to Jenolan Caves shorter for the next day. The night proved very warm and all at the river camp slept badly, partly owing to the heat and partly to the poor camping ground. Bracken and scrub had to be cleared and soil levelled to make possible the abdulling of a tent.
  
-At 6.30 a.m. on Tuesday morning we were off, and - jumping from rock to rock - came to the firet casuarinas, and then to a pool bounded at the top by gigantic granite boulders and at the sides by walls round which it was impossible to scramble. The packs were lowered down and, this pool once swam, we were faced with another, and immediately a third, down to which air gear was handed in relays, and then, coming to the ledge where our packs were deposited, we had the thrill of sliding down a short, greasy, granite slope into the huge pothole of water, seemingly bottomless, in which our whole bodies were immersed, and clambering out of this one, went instantly into another. The packs reached, they were floated across and a rest was called for on a little sandy beach. A couple went ahead to reconnoitre, and reported a waterfall preventing further progress. It was impossible to climb down, and nothing was left but to sidle our way over the mountainside. This proved most exhausting and very dangerous, so we refrained from going too high. Our flesh was torn by the spikes from the blackthorn and briar; we had to pick our way over fallen timber; a tremendous amount of energy was needed, for foothold was difficult on the steep sides, covered as they were with loose, slippery, granite gravel. It was quickly discovered that the safe way to descend was to sit and slide, risking the tearing of our clothing. Worn out at the bottom of the slope we swam and lunched.+At 6.30 a.m. on Tuesday morning we were off, and - jumping from rock to rock - came to the first casuarinas, and then to a pool bounded at the top by gigantic granite boulders and at the sides by walls round which it was impossible to scramble. The packs were lowered down and, this pool once swam, we were faced with another, and immediately a third, down to which air gear was handed in relays, and then, coming to the ledge where our packs were deposited, we had the thrill of sliding down a short, greasy, granite slope into the huge pothole of water, seemingly bottomless, in which our whole bodies were immersed, and clambering out of this one, went instantly into another. The packs reached, they were floated across and a rest was called for on a little sandy beach. A couple went ahead to reconnoitre, and reported a waterfall preventing further progress. It was impossible to climb down, and nothing was left but to sidle our way over the mountainside. This proved most exhausting and very dangerous, so we refrained from going too high. Our flesh was torn by the spikes from the blackthorn and briar; we had to pick our way over fallen timber; a tremendous amount of energy was needed, for foothold was difficult on the steep sides, covered as they were with loose, slippery, granite gravel. It was quickly discovered that the safe way to descend was to sit and slide, risking the tearing of our clothing. Worn out at the bottom of the slope we swam and lunched.
  
 Continuing the perpetual rockhopping, at which we had become experts, for the tops of the weatherworn granite boulders gave safe footholds, we came in the late afternoon to another pool. Some swam their packs through, but one went round the side and, reporting an easily negotiable animal track swam the 80 yards back and, with two others, carried packs over, but the track evaded us and the going was so dangerous that we resolved __never__ to sidle the ridges again, but to float every gorge - a resolve which was adhered to. Continuing the perpetual rockhopping, at which we had become experts, for the tops of the weatherworn granite boulders gave safe footholds, we came in the late afternoon to another pool. Some swam their packs through, but one went round the side and, reporting an easily negotiable animal track swam the 80 yards back and, with two others, carried packs over, but the track evaded us and the going was so dangerous that we resolved __never__ to sidle the ridges again, but to float every gorge - a resolve which was adhered to.
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 Leaving at 8 a.m. on Wednesday and crossing above the waterfall over a natural causeway, and edging our way round a ledge, we reached a tree that grew out from the bottom. Down this we slid, our packs first being lowered. We were faced now with another pool of about 120 yards-long and, quickly covering our packs, swam them through, noticing a great number of rocklilies growing on the sheer walls. Here a scare resulted from one of the male members of the party beginning to choke and splutter and, leaving his pack, grasping hold of a nitch in one of the walls. Thinking he had cramp, a couple of others swam to his assistance, only to discover that, in laughing at some humourous remark, he swallowed so much water that he had to rest. However, he quickly recovered and resumed the swim. Leaving at 8 a.m. on Wednesday and crossing above the waterfall over a natural causeway, and edging our way round a ledge, we reached a tree that grew out from the bottom. Down this we slid, our packs first being lowered. We were faced now with another pool of about 120 yards-long and, quickly covering our packs, swam them through, noticing a great number of rocklilies growing on the sheer walls. Here a scare resulted from one of the male members of the party beginning to choke and splutter and, leaving his pack, grasping hold of a nitch in one of the walls. Thinking he had cramp, a couple of others swam to his assistance, only to discover that, in laughing at some humourous remark, he swallowed so much water that he had to rest. However, he quickly recovered and resumed the swim.
  
-Then, helping one another over an awkward ledge, we came upon two other walkers who, through the fatiguing work entailed in climbing over each gorge, had taken two days to do what we had accomplished one. They accompanied us for a few miles, during which another po ol was floated, and we very quickly showed them how to edge their way round the granite to get to this pool, and then to swim their gear through. Grey quartzite was taking the place of the granite when we lunched between Landrigan's and Matheson's Creeks. It was hot, and soon the party was strung out to Werong Creek. Here the two walkers left us; they were to camp overnight and climb Misery Ridge early next morning. It is worth mentioning that it was possible here to resume the wearing of heavy boots, and we were most pleased. The banks now were followed along intermittent cowpads, through scrub and thorns, to make camp in Rudder's Rift.+Then, helping one another over an awkward ledge, we came upon two other walkers who, through the fatiguing work entailed in climbing over each gorge, had taken two days to do what we had accomplished one. They accompanied us for a few miles, during which another pool was floated, and we very quickly showed them how to edge their way round the granite to get to this pool, and then to swim their gear through. Grey quartzite was taking the place of the granite when we lunched between Landrigan's and Matheson's Creeks. It was hot, and soon the party was strung out to Werong Creek. Here the two walkers left us; they were to camp overnight and climb Misery Ridge early next morning. It is worth mentioning that it was possible here to resume the wearing of heavy boots, and we were most pleased. The banks now were followed along intermittent cowpads, through scrub and thorns, to make camp in Rudder's Rift.
  
-Leaving at 7.15 a.m. Thursday morning, an immediate floating of packs was made - our eleventh for the trip. Walking had become easier and a considerable distance had been covered when all progress seemed barred for another waterfall dropped down from in front of us. Remembering our reolve of but two days earlier not to climb again, we consulted, and decided to lower our packs down the 12 feet on ropes, then to jump over after them and float them through. This was exciting. Scanning the water anxiously for rocks, we leapt. It seemed an interminable time before we came to the surface, but  on rising we turned, and facing the rock down which our pack was already being lowered, raised a hand to let it gently on to the water, then, unfastening the rope and watching it whisked up to lower another pack, turned and swam and pushed our pack down stream. How far we knew not for a bend in the river blocked the view. This floating proved a fitting finale, for it was to be our last and was 250 yards long, divided as it was into three parts. A narrow natural causeway, across which the packs had to be lifted, separated the first and second pools, and a shallow of greasy granite stones (over which we dragged our stomachs, propelling the packs before us) was between the second and third. Some gear received a wetting so, during lunch, we dried both it and our tents, which were wet from the rain of the previous night. By the way, this day it had been more or less continuously raining, not heavily, but that light, misty stuff so common to our mountain regions, making the freedom from flies somewhat pleasant. The flies had been most annoying, and we had been unable to wear our flyveils because the thickness of their weave restricted vision, and made them too dangerous to wear when jumping from rock to rock.+Leaving at 7.15 a.m. Thursday morning, an immediate floating of packs was made - our eleventh for the trip. Walking had become easier and a considerable distance had been covered when all progress seemed barred for another waterfall dropped down from in front of us. Remembering our resolve of but two days earlier not to climb again, we consulted, and decided to lower our packs down the 12 feet on ropes, then to jump over after them and float them through. This was exciting. Scanning the water anxiously for rocks, we leapt. It seemed an interminable time before we came to the surface, but  on rising we turned, and facing the rock down which our pack was already being lowered, raised a hand to let it gently on to the water, then, unfastening the rope and watching it whisked up to lower another pack, turned and swam and pushed our pack down stream. How far we knew not for a bend in the river blocked the view. This floating proved a fitting finale, for it was to be our last and was 250 yards long, divided as it was into three parts. A narrow natural causeway, across which the packs had to be lifted, separated the first and second pools, and a shallow of greasy granite stones (over which we dragged our stomachs, propelling the packs before us) was between the second and third. Some gear received a wetting so, during lunch, we dried both it and our tents, which were wet from the rain of the previous night. By the way, this day it had been more or less continuously raining, not heavily, but that light, misty stuff so common to our mountain regions, making the freedom from flies somewhat pleasant. The flies had been most annoying, and we had been unable to wear our flyveils because the thickness of their weave restricted vision, and made them too dangerous to wear when jumping from rock to rock.
  
 We were now entertained by a lyrebird, and were delighted with its excellent mimicking. The birds were very plentiful, the bellbirds in particular being common. We were now entertained by a lyrebird, and were delighted with its excellent mimicking. The birds were very plentiful, the bellbirds in particular being common.
  
-Walking along the cowpads, Waterfall and Lannigan's Creeks were soon passed. Now by numerous prospect holes, past where the Boyd Range gently slopes to the Kowmumg, and within a couple of miles of Church Creek we camped. We had observed a difference in the rock formation since lunch and conglomerate rock had become very prevalent.+Walking along the cowpads, Waterfall and Lannigan's Creeks were soon passed. Now by numerous prospect holes, past where the Boyd Range gently slopes to the Kowmung, and within a couple of miles of Church Creek we camped. We had observed a difference in the rock formation since lunch and conglomerate rock had become very prevalent.
  
 The next day, Friday, was an easy one. From Church Creek we we to Yerranderie and procured more provisions. These made 2501bs. food for the whole trip. A couple of youthful hunters gave us some rabbits, too, and after stewing them all the afternoon and night they were found edible for breakfast next morning. The next day, Friday, was an easy one. From Church Creek we we to Yerranderie and procured more provisions. These made 2501bs. food for the whole trip. A couple of youthful hunters gave us some rabbits, too, and after stewing them all the afternoon and night they were found edible for breakfast next morning.
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 The pace of the party was quickening and the walking on the cowpads was excellent. It had rained early in the morning but, rapidly clearing, the sun burst through, and it brought with it the irritating plague of flies. Christie's Creek was reached, and we thought of the explorer, Barallier, whose attempt to cross the mountains was repulsed by the precipitous walls of this creek a short distance from the Kowmung. The pace of the party was quickening and the walking on the cowpads was excellent. It had rained early in the morning but, rapidly clearing, the sun burst through, and it brought with it the irritating plague of flies. Christie's Creek was reached, and we thought of the explorer, Barallier, whose attempt to cross the mountains was repulsed by the precipitous walls of this creek a short distance from the Kowmung.
  
-The open river banks were gradually giving way to cliffs; hundreds of feet high, as we were now entering the Bulga-Denis Canyon. If ever impressive and inspiring river scenery is to be witness on any of our mountain streams, it is here. The sheer, rugged grandeur of the mountain walls rising from the water's edge was wonderful. The track, running along narrow banks, continually crossed and recrossed the stream. The grey stone wails edged on either side by dark green vegetation, rose first on one side and then on the other. Through groves of watergum and wattle, across a large flat of eucalyptus saplings, we came to the end of the Canyon, where the sides were broken and wading somewhat reminiscent of Jenolan River was resorted to. Again the peaceful river with the grazing cattle reflectd in the placid waters - but the appeal of Bulga-Denis was strong. We swam and, loitering, we lunched early on a grassy bank, are conversed of rabbits and their questionable value as a sustaining breakfast food.+The open river banks were gradually giving way to cliffs; hundreds of feet high, as we were now entering the Bulga-Denis Canyon. If ever impressive and inspiring river scenery is to be witness on any of our mountain streams, it is here. The sheer, rugged grandeur of the mountain walls rising from the water's edge was wonderful. The track, running along narrow banks, continually crossed and recrossed the stream. The grey stone wails edged on either side by dark green vegetation, rose first on one side and then on the other. Through groves of watergum and wattle, across a large flat of eucalyptus saplings, we came to the end of the Canyon, where the sides were broken and wading somewhat reminiscent of Jenolan River was resorted to. Again the peaceful river with the grazing cattle reflected in the placid waters - but the appeal of Bulga-Denis was strong. We swam and, loitering, we lunched early on a grassy bank, are conversed of rabbits and their questionable value as a sustaining breakfast food.
  
 Hughes' Hut came quickly was left in the rear, and not long after that Gingra Creek and New Year's Eve were reached together. Camp was made and after tea our New Year's celebratiOns were held, and the evening of song and poetry and ready witticisms near the dying embers of fires was immensely enjoyed. Hughes' Hut came quickly was left in the rear, and not long after that Gingra Creek and New Year's Eve were reached together. Camp was made and after tea our New Year's celebratiOns were held, and the evening of song and poetry and ready witticisms near the dying embers of fires was immensely enjoyed.
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 - Alex Colley. - Alex Colley.
-"For years the typical country pub was exa:ctly what upst people expected 'it to be, a public drinking place vcrhich bred a sturdy race of bushwalkers and interstate hitch-hikers equipped vatth a billy, a sleeping bag, soap, to-wel and toothbrush and used to "roughing it"- + 
-From a recently published newspair article on Motels. +"For years the typical country pub was exactly what most people expected it to be, a public drinking place which bred a sturdy race of bushwalkers and interstate hitch-hikers equipped with a billy, a sleeping bag, soap, towel and toothbrush and used to "roughing it" 
-_Now, all you members and prospectives who have drowsed around the campfire while I told you how to be crafty in the bush, forget all that stuff ,about camping on theground in a little tent. The bushal1r of 1961, cradled rightbehind the bar, doe an '-b need to clutter his -mind with any of that nonsense. If he had to cross the bush en route to the m_xt pub he couldn'stand the screeching of the birds, the howling of the wind,.in'the trees and-sthe si&rb of all those leaves. Worse still he mighthave to drink water. But now, -happily, ha need never set foot in the bush at all, since there are 'roads connecting every pub with every other pub. + 
-1. +From a recently published newspaper article on Motels. 
- A IMOTED + 
-'; -41 +Now, all you members and prospectives who have drowsed around the campfire while I told you how to be crafty in the bush, forget all that stuff about camping on the ground in a little tent. The bushwalker of 1961, cradled right behind the bar, doesn'need to clutter his mind with any of that nonsense. If he had to cross the bush en route to the next pub he couldn't stand the screeching of the birds, the howling of the wind in the trees and the sight of all those leaves. Worse still he might have to drink __water__. But now, happily, he need never set foot in the bush at all, since there are roads connecting every pub with every other pub. 
- 1 s< + 
-nfl n +Better still, he needn't even walk. On every road there are cars, moving both ways, and so long as he can beat the interstate hitch-hikers to it, sooner or later one going his way will pick him up. Still, a few hints mightn't go amiss. 
-rr + 
-KAToom +Select your camp sites carefully. Sample the beer first. Inspect the ceiling of your room for water stains and loose plaster. Then make sure there's a fireplace and enough furniture to boil that billy. Examine the water in the jug. If there's dust on it, ring for the manager. 
-ft, + 
--Fyorr,:i or-an ci +What kind of pack? You don't need one for that gear. Take a big billy and stuff the sleeping bag, soap, towel and toothbrush inside it. 
-177 e CIO Ks + 
-enii den +A groundsheet, did you say? Quite unnecessary. Put your sleeping bag on the bed and you'll be perfectly insulated from ground moisture. So long as you thumb your lifts from the pub verandah no raindrop need ever touch you. 
-4P' POCTON + 
-16  +Footwear? Hobnails don't grip on wet bar-room floors and rubbers squeak on the linoleum. Since you'll never have to walk anyway, be as comfortable at possible. Wear carpet slippers. 
-Better still, he needn't even walk. On every road there are cars, moving both mays, and so long as he can beat the interetate hitch-hikers to it, sooner or later one going his way mill pick lalm up. Still4a few hints mightn't go amiss. + 
-Select-your camp 'sites carefully. Sample -the beer first.-. Inspect the ceiling of your root far water stains and loose plaster. Then make surethere's a fireplace +Food for pub walking? They've got to provide meals at the pub, so just stick to the list and don't take any. You'd have nowhere to put it anyway. 
-are enaugh'eurniture to boil that billy. Examine the'water-jaa the jug. If there''dust on it, ring for the manager. + 
-:What kind of pack? You don't:need one for that gear. Take a big billy and stuff the sleeping bag, soap, towel and toothbrush inside it +First aid are snakebite outfit? Not necessary. If in trouble call an ambulance. If you do see any snakes they will be pink ones with purple spots, and they won'bite. 
--1Lgrcundsheet, did you say? Quite unnecessary:- Tut yrk.11" sleeping bag on the bed and you'll7oe perfectly insulated from..FrOund m6istUre..-..;So long as ycu thumb your lifts from the pub Verandah no raindrop need evertouch you. + 
-Footwear? Hobnails don't grip on wet barroomfloOrs and rubbers squeak on +Map and compass? Don't waste your money. Go to the nearest service station and they will give you an adequate map for free. Then just read the road signs and you'll never get lost. 
-the linoleum. Since,you'll never have to walk-anyway, be as comfortable at possible. Near carpet slippers. + 
- Food for pub walking? They got to protide meals at the -Dub, so just stick to the list and don't take any. You'd have nowhere to Put it anyway. +But I won't bore you with further details, because our sturdy race won't have to rough it much longer. Read the next sentence: "But as the nation became more affluent, more and more cars appeared on the road and those who drove them were willing and able to pay for comfortable overnight stops. The idea of motels at first caught on slowly, but throughout 1957, l958 and 1959 it spread rapidly". So, unless you are totally lacking in affluence, throw the billy and the sleeping bag on the rubbish heap with the rest of your walking gear. Then get into your car, step on the accelerator, and make for a motel. Better take your toothbrush, though, they mightn't provide one. 
-First aid are snakebite outfit? Not neeessary. If in trouble call an ambulance. If you do see any snakes they mill be pink ones with purple spots, and they won'bile+ 
-Map and compass? Don't waste your money. Goto the nearest service station and they will give you an adequate map for free. Then just read the road signs and you'll never get lost. +---- 
-But I mn't bore you with further details, because our sturdy race won't have to rough'it much longer. Read the *next sentence: "But as the nation became more affluent, more and more cars appeared on the road and those who drove them 'were willing and Ole to pay for comfortable overnight stops. The idea of motels at first cat on slowly, but throughout 1957, l958and 1959 it spread rapidly". So, unless you are totally lacking in affIuerce, throw the billy and the sleepily bas, on the rubbish heap with the rest of your walking gear. Theh get into your car, step on the accelerator, and make for a motel. Better take your toothbrush, thaw"-, they mightn't provide one. + 
-.1110. +=====Tales Of The North Shore.===== 
-TALES OF THE NORTH SORE.+
 - "Taro". - "Taro".
-It should be readily conceded that few people are much concerned with the ea-Tly history of their particular locality. The North side-is ribh in stories, but on asking of the n3any S.B. doubluse living there yields no infarmetion+ 
-So - after research extending over many minutes, here is the fruit of it. Any doubting the authenticity can go along to the Mitchell Library, and they will discover corroboration of these carroborees completely absent. +It should be readily conceded that few people are much concerned with the early history of their particular locality. The North side is rich in stories, but on asking of the many S.B. doubluse living there yields no information. 
-17. + 
-It is the place names that tell the real story, of why they were given. Take Killara +So - after research extending over many minutes, here is the fruit of it. Any doubting the authenticity can go along to the Mitchell Library, and they will discover corroboration of these corroborees completely absent. 
-In that Darticular district, an old abo. chief had an incurable -habit of collectinz the young lubras - the ryung bucks became restive - somehow things did not seem quite right. + 
-So they held secret meetings and decided that big chief Ara must be put in his place. The unanimous dedision was to kill Ara and lo - they did - and the immediate result was a steep rise in the marriage rate, and thus the name was -tprrt+It is the place names that tell the real story, of why they were given. Take Killara 
-Nowconsider Turramurra + 
-The sitaation was exactly the same as at Kiliara, but the bucks feared to-makz the move. Some wanted to wait till the next 8-hour day. Some said wait a week. The King was due to return the following day, he was away on a honeymoon with his latest takeover. But a bUnch of impatient bucks began to chant and carried the day. Tu morra, tu murra turra murra, they sang - and danced till far into the night. +In that particular district, an old abo. chief had an incurable habit of collecting the young lubras - the young bucks became restive - somehow things did not seem quite right. 
-When the octo. ant returned, flushed with victory - something happened - for he was never seen again, and the immediate result was, the marriage rate soared, and the chant became the place name.+ 
 +So they held secret meetings and decided that big chief Ara must be put in his place. The unanimous decision was to kill Ara and lo - they did - and the immediate result was a steep rise in the marriage rate, and thus the name was born
 + 
 +Now consider - Turramurra 
 + 
 +The situation was exactly the same as at Killara, but the bucks feared to make the move. Some wanted to wait till the next 8-hour day. Some said wait a week. The King was due to return the following day, he was away on a honeymoon with his latest takeover. But a bunch of impatient bucks began to chant and carried the day. Tu morra, tu murra turra murra, they sang - and danced till far into the night. 
 + 
 +When the octo. King returned, flushed with victory - something happened - for he was never seen again, and the immediate result was, the marriage rate soared, and the chant became the place name. 
 And Warrawee - (that slightly alcoholic name). And Warrawee - (that slightly alcoholic name).
-The situation there vas exactly as Eillara - same monopolistic capers, same discontented bucks. Same protest meeting, but much more impetuous. Warrawee waiting far, rose to a deafening chorus. _So they fell on the chief and by sheer weight of numbers - delivered him to his ancestofs. And the Immediate result was - a steep rise in the marriage rate, and nobody has s) far dared to ellane the name of Wamawee+ 
-EUt Normathurst +The situation there was exactly as Killara - same monopolistic capers, same discontented bucks. Same protest meeting, but much more impetuous. Warrawee waiting far, rose to a deafening chorus. So they fell on the chief and by sheer weight of numbers - delivered him to his ancestors. And the immediate result was - a steep rise in the marriage rate, and nobody has so far dared to change the name of Warrawee
-Now here is a tale indeed - quite the reverse of the others. This is all about the most harmonious tribe in Australia. + 
-The 3atg Chief here had a most interesting pedigree. One of his ancestors - with a colonial contihgerL fcught alongside Henry V at Agincourt - rations ran out and, to save his lifehe chewed raw - the leg of a frenchie which of curse gave him a the percentage of Norman blood.+But Normanhurst! 
 + 
 +Now here is a tale indeed - quite the reverse of the others. 
 + 
 +This is all about the most harmonious tribe in Australia. 
 + 
 +The Big Chief here had a most interesting pedigree. One of his ancestors - with a colonial contingent fought alongside Henry V at Agincourt - rations ran out and, to save his lifehe chewed raw - the leg of a frenchie which of course gave him a due percentage of Norman blood. 
 On his return to his abo. throne he staggered the tribe by leaving the lubras to the bucks (probably some strain of gascon chivalry). On his return to his abo. throne he staggered the tribe by leaving the lubras to the bucks (probably some strain of gascon chivalry).
-His choice lay with the Elderlies - weather beaten. But alas - before long this proved fatal, and great was the lamentation - they declared a week's-holiday and-gave him a magnificent funeral and - greatest compliment of all - a hearseYes, Norman was hearseds- and to this day the moaning of the crones can be heard in the land. + 
-I hope the se tales may- in spire research in other members of the Club - much oil is waiting to be struck. +__His__ choice lay with the Elderlies - weather beaten. But alas - before long this proved fatal, and great was the lamentation - they declared a week's holiday and gave him a magnificent funeral and - greatest compliment of all - a hearseYes, Norman was hearsed, and to this day the moaning of the crones can be heard in the land. 
-FAUX.  + 
-18. +I hope these tales may inspire research in other members of the Club - much oil is waiting to be struck. 
-uck+ 
-- John Bookl +---- 
-Scottish' lass of held back a + 
-Below the keel the ocean f&l rned. I was homeward bound. -.viewing slides of her homeland 'of thich' I boasted ITra seen urSt. 'slide. It was marked "Road to the Isles" track.+=====Faux Pas.===== 
 + 
 +- John Bookluck. 
 + 
 +Below the keel the ocean foamed. I was homeward bound. A Scottish lass viewing slides of her homeland of which I boasted I'seen most of held back a slide. It was marked "Road to the Isles" track. 
 "Did you go along the Road to the Isles"? "Did you go along the Road to the Isles"?
-"Yes, and rye- been along all- three loch t" as in 'the song", I added assuredly. "Yo a've been along Loch Arbor" she enquired with a quizzical look. "Yes" 
-"Congratulatione , she replied giving me her hand mhile her large 'orown, - eyes and oval face smiled. As I took her warm hand my eyes failed to. meet hers and my srnile waned to firmer lines. There was no Loch Arbor. No wonder I couldn't find it on the map. However, I still tell the English I've been along Loch rbor. 
-N.P.A. CHRISTMAS CARDS FOR 1961. 
-This year's card shows, in colour, coastal scenery in The Royal. National Park (from the clriginal by Helen Barrett). Price 
-Also available are some of last year's 
- Please your friends and hell-) publicise the work of the 'National Parks 
-Assce iation. 
-COMING SOCIAL EMTS 
-JANUARY 17TH: Paul Driver Tall give an illustrated talk on his overseas trip. 
-JANJARY 24.TH: John Freeman will talk on Ants. 
-JANUARY 31ST: Mr. Charles Ca sperson will speak on C.J. Dennis. 
-THE 1961 "BUSHWALICER" ANNUAL VAGAZITE. Far the-convenience of :those readers rho 
-ont co them . Clubroom so frequently; we are- forwattling an Order Form which' 
-can be used to have the Annual -posted home, or perhaps to an interested friend as a Christmas Gift. Just fill in ma', and address and enclose Postal Note for 3/- it's postfree: 
-1/3d. each 
-10/- for 8. 
-15/- for 12. 
-card of Et. CurrOcRbilly. 
  
 +"Yes, and I've been along all three lochs as in the song", I added assuredly.
 +
 +"You've been along Loch Arbor" she enquired with a quizzical look.
 +
 +"Yes".
 +
 +"Congratulations", she replied giving me her hand while her large brown eyes and oval face smiled. As I took her warm hand my eyes failed to meet hers and my smile waned to firmer lines. There was no Loch Arbor. No wonder I couldn't find it on the map. However, I still tell the English I've been along Loch Arbor.
 +
 +----
 +
 +=====N.P.A. Christmas cards for 1961.=====
 +
 +This year's card shows, in colour, coastal scenery in The Royal National Park (from the original by Helen Barrett). Price 1/3d. each. 10/- for 8. 15/- for 12.
 +
 +Also available are some of last year's card of Mt. Currockbilly.
 +
 +Please your friends and help publicise the work of the National Parks Association.
 +
 +----
 +
 +=====Coming Social Events.=====
 +
 +|January 17th|Paul Driver will give an illustrated talk on his overseas trip.|
 +|January 24th|John Freeman will talk on Ants.|
 +|January 31st|Mr. Charles Casperson will speak on C.J. Dennis.|
 +
 +----
 +
 +__The 1961 "Bushwalker" annual Magazine.__ For the convenience of those readers who don't come into the Clubroom so frequently; we are forwarding an Order Form which can be used to have the Annual posted home, or perhaps to an interested friend as a Christmas Gift. Just fill in name and address and enclose Postal Note for 3/- it's post free!
196112.1457062195.txt.gz · Last modified: 2016/03/04 14:29 (external edit)

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