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198507 [2014/05/12 23:26] simon198507 [2014/05/23 21:50] (current) – [NEW MEMBERS.] simon
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 A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Box 4476 G.P.O., Sydney, 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.45 pm at the Cahill Community Centre (Upper Hall), 34 Falcon Street, Crow' A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Box 4476 G.P.O., Sydney, 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.45 pm at the Cahill Community Centre (Upper Hall), 34 Falcon Street, Crow'
  
-| EDITOR: | Ainslie Morris, 45 Austin Street, Lame Cove, 2066. Telephone 428,3178. |+| EDITOR: | Ainslie Morris, 45 Austin Street, Lane Cove, 2066. Telephone 428,3178. |
 | BUSINESS MANAGER: | Bill Burke, 3 Coral Tree Drive, Carlingford, 2118. Telephone 871,1207. | | BUSINESS MANAGER: | Bill Burke, 3 Coral Tree Drive, Carlingford, 2118. Telephone 871,1207. |
 | PRODUCTION MANAGER: | Helen Gray. | | PRODUCTION MANAGER: | Helen Gray. |
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 Jim Brown. \\ Jim Brown. \\
  
-__INTRODUCTORY__ (Jim Brpwn) \\+__INTRODUCTORY__ (Jim Brown) \\
 First, a personal disclaimer: I didn't do it; had nothing to do with it; wasn't there. Even as an erstwhile Trustee of Blue Gum Forest, I accept no responsibility - the Trust had already ceded control of the Forest to the recently established Blue Mountains National Park. But, despite the lack of any personal involvement, I still find it interesting to recall what happened in Blue Gum Forest on 17/18 July, 1965, when two S.B.W. parties camped there - together with a crew of Sea Scouts who spent that week-end far from what one might deem their natural environment. First, a personal disclaimer: I didn't do it; had nothing to do with it; wasn't there. Even as an erstwhile Trustee of Blue Gum Forest, I accept no responsibility - the Trust had already ceded control of the Forest to the recently established Blue Mountains National Park. But, despite the lack of any personal involvement, I still find it interesting to recall what happened in Blue Gum Forest on 17/18 July, 1965, when two S.B.W. parties camped there - together with a crew of Sea Scouts who spent that week-end far from what one might deem their natural environment.
  
 Yes, it was 17/18 July, 1965, so Dear Reader, these events occurred almost exactly 20 years ago. Yes, it was 17/18 July, 1965, so Dear Reader, these events occurred almost exactly 20 years ago.
 +
 I suppose the reminiscence began when I received a copy of the Railway Historical Society's Digest for October, 1984. On the back cover were a couple of chilly-looking colour photographs taken at Lithgow railway station during the heavy snow-falls that blanketed the Blue Mountains early in July, 1984 (Funny term, that, "Blanketed" - snow would be almost the last thing I would wish as a blanket). Probably for comparison, there was also an old and rather fuzzy black-and-white photograph of a steam locomotive toiling through snow, and a caption reading "On July 18, 1965, 3639 - a C.36 class engine - has plenty to cope with as she struggles out of Lithgow with a down goods. So bad was the weather, this was the last goods train to work west from Lithgow for 36 hours". I suppose the reminiscence began when I received a copy of the Railway Historical Society's Digest for October, 1984. On the back cover were a couple of chilly-looking colour photographs taken at Lithgow railway station during the heavy snow-falls that blanketed the Blue Mountains early in July, 1984 (Funny term, that, "Blanketed" - snow would be almost the last thing I would wish as a blanket). Probably for comparison, there was also an old and rather fuzzy black-and-white photograph of a steam locomotive toiling through snow, and a caption reading "On July 18, 1965, 3639 - a C.36 class engine - has plenty to cope with as she struggles out of Lithgow with a down goods. So bad was the weather, this was the last goods train to work west from Lithgow for 36 hours".
  
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 About this time the old memory-box got into gear and I recalled Barbara Evans telling me that, when quite a new member, she had been down in the Forest on a week-end of devastating snow falls, and the walkers had helped to salvage a group of semi-frozen Sea Scouts. Of course, light snow is not uncommon on the plateaux surrounding the Grose Valley, which are about 1000-1050 metres above sea level, but it is certainly uncommon to find more than a few flakes in the valley, where the height is about 350 metres - say, equivalent to Springwood. About this time the old memory-box got into gear and I recalled Barbara Evans telling me that, when quite a new member, she had been down in the Forest on a week-end of devastating snow falls, and the walkers had helped to salvage a group of semi-frozen Sea Scouts. Of course, light snow is not uncommon on the plateaux surrounding the Grose Valley, which are about 1000-1050 metres above sea level, but it is certainly uncommon to find more than a few flakes in the valley, where the height is about 350 metres - say, equivalent to Springwood.
  
-That follows, then, is a composite of extracts from Betty Farquhar's story published in September, 1965, combined with recollections from Barbara Evans who was there in Jack Gentle's party. Barbara also points +That follows, then, is a composite of extracts from Betty Farquhar's story published in September, 1965, combined with recollections from Barbara Evans who was there in Jack Gentle's party. Barbara also points to the lessons one can learn from such a grueling experience, and for good measure, tells something of the story of the other S.B.W. party - the one that went out via Govett's Leap and had a very rough passage back to Blackheath.
-to the lessons one can learn from such a gruelling experience, and for good measure, tells something of the story of the other S.B.W. party - the one that went out via Govett's Leap and had a very rough passage back to BLackheath.+
  
 __"AND THE SNOWS CAME"__ (Betty Farquhar) \\ __"AND THE SNOWS CAME"__ (Betty Farquhar) \\
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 "We were up at 6.30 am cooking and packing, farewelling Brian and his party. It had rained steadily all night. Back up Perry's, Jack decided - no point in walking more than necessary in this weather. Suddenly it was ice, snow, sleet and cold. Three or four Sea Scouts arrived, cold, bewildered and feeling ill. Yes, we would help them, our party taking their wet, heavy equipment. "We were up at 6.30 am cooking and packing, farewelling Brian and his party. It had rained steadily all night. Back up Perry's, Jack decided - no point in walking more than necessary in this weather. Suddenly it was ice, snow, sleet and cold. Three or four Sea Scouts arrived, cold, bewildered and feeling ill. Yes, we would help them, our party taking their wet, heavy equipment.
  
-"Dort stop! Col Ferguson said, Keep going. Keep going! - our first trip up Perry's, and for several of the others too. I couldn't keep moving, a stop to catch breath, and on again up and up. The snow was falling fast, the track becoming covered, some parts icy and covered with snow. Branches crashing down made a frightening and awe-inspiring sight and sound. Almost at the top we found the Scouts' packs left in an overhang. Jack had sensibly decided there was no point in carrying them any further.... their first aid kit must have weighed five pounds.+"Don'stop! Col Ferguson said, Keep going. Keep going! - our first trip up Perry's, and for several of the others too. I couldn't keep moving, a stop to catch breath, and on again up and up. The snow was falling fast, the track becoming covered, some parts icy and covered with snow. Branches crashing down made a frightening and awe-inspiring sight and sound. Almost at the top we found the Scouts' packs left in an overhang. Jack had sensibly decided there was no point in carrying them any further.... their first aid kit must have weighed five pounds.
  
 "Then began the road walk, which was by this time some 12 to 15 inches under snow and it was still falling heavily. I was tired, the road seemed endless, I couldn't feel my legs, let alone hands and feet. Something to eat, that was it - it was past lunch time - perhaps I'd feel better if I ate something. What an effort to get groundsheet and pack off and get cheese and salami out of a pocket. What was wrong with my jaws? They just wouldn't work. I glimpsed a flask of rum poking out of Em's pack, a swig of that, yes, it went down, oh well, my jaws must be all right.... just keep on going.... " "Then began the road walk, which was by this time some 12 to 15 inches under snow and it was still falling heavily. I was tired, the road seemed endless, I couldn't feel my legs, let alone hands and feet. Something to eat, that was it - it was past lunch time - perhaps I'd feel better if I ate something. What an effort to get groundsheet and pack off and get cheese and salami out of a pocket. What was wrong with my jaws? They just wouldn't work. I glimpsed a flask of rum poking out of Em's pack, a swig of that, yes, it went down, oh well, my jaws must be all right.... just keep on going.... "
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 __"BARE-KNEED SEA SCOUTS CAME"__ (Barbara Evans) \\ __"BARE-KNEED SEA SCOUTS CAME"__ (Barbara Evans) \\
-During the night the downpour grew heavier, until by the first dreary glimmer of day, even the noise of the river was drowned by the beating rain. An enormous echoing CRACK! jolted me awake. A rifle-shot? A minute later another CRASH rang around the Forest. Could some one be out there shooting? Better light a fire to alert him we were around. Luckily, there was a big pile of wood left from the night before; my tent was stuffed with dry bark for kindling, the "Saturday Herald" could be used as a roof. Soon the +During the night the downpour grew heavier, until by the first dreary glimmer of day, even the noise of the river was drowned by the beating rain. An enormous echoing CRACK! jolted me awake. A rifle-shot? A minute later another CRASH rang around the Forest. Could some one be out there shooting? Better light a fire to alert him we were around. Luckily, there was a big pile of wood left from the night before; my tent was stuffed with dry bark for kindling, the "Saturday Herald" could be used as a roof. Soon the fire was blazing under its newspaper thatch. The wet wood smoked lavishly, and the next CRASH to be heard was much further away.
-fire was blazing under its newspaper thatch. The wet wood smoked lavishly, and the next CRASH to be heard was much further away.+
  
 Jack Gentle got another fire going and everyone had a hot breakfast with plenty of tea and coffee. By this time the rain was lessening, but somehow each drop had developed a solid centre. It was turning to snow. Jack Gentle got another fire going and everyone had a hot breakfast with plenty of tea and coffee. By this time the rain was lessening, but somehow each drop had developed a solid centre. It was turning to snow.
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 No one was in any hurry to get back into the deep snow, so we huddled in the cottage and wondered how the other party was getting along in Govett's Leap Creek. It would be much easier for them, we said, the snow down there would be very thin, and so much less tiring to walk on.... No one was in any hurry to get back into the deep snow, so we huddled in the cottage and wondered how the other party was getting along in Govett's Leap Creek. It would be much easier for them, we said, the snow down there would be very thin, and so much less tiring to walk on....
  
-__"PUT IN THE BOOT"__ (Ruth Kinchington, as told to Barbara Evans) Ruth Constable (now Kinchington) was in that party of experienced walkers and this, to the best of my memory, is her account of their ordeal:-+__"PUT IN THE BOOT"__ (Ruth Kinchington, as told to Barbara Evans) \\ 
 +Ruth Constable (now Kinchington) was in that party of experienced walkers and this, to the best of my memory, is her account of their ordeal:-
  
-The first hour was fine; a relatively easy walk from Blue Gum to Junction Rock. Snow was settling, and when they reached Govett's Leap Creek, a lot of water was coming down, making rocks and track fairly slippery but everyone was warm and in good spirits. The track became steeper and narrower, and as they trekked higher the rocks were icy and treacherous, and it was hazardous to cross the creek. The gorge drew down a bitter, sinking draught from the mountain tops and the group was soaked to the skin with +The first hour was fine; a relatively easy walk from Blue Gum to Junction Rock. Snow was settling, and when they reached Govett's Leap Creek, a lot of water was coming down, making rocks and track fairly slippery but everyone was warm and in good spirits. The track became steeper and narrower, and as they trekked higher the rocks were icy and treacherous, and it was hazardous to cross the creek. The gorge drew down a bitter, sinking draught from the mountain tops and the group was soaked to the skin with freezing spray from the swollen streams. As the snow got deeper, the walkers slithered and stumbled over hidden rocks, intent only on getting through without delay.
-freezing spray from the swollen streams. As the snow got deeper, the walkers slithered and stumbled over hidden rocks, intent only on getting through without delay.+
  
 It was late morning when they realised one of their number was missing. Brian Matterson, their leader, had fallen behind. They went back and found him sitting on a rock. "Carry on," he said, "I'll rest a while and catch up soon". The party exchanged glances, and decided, "We won't split the party in these conditions, and we'll keep warmer if we're walking. We'll go a bit slower and make sure we keep together." They set off. It was late morning when they realised one of their number was missing. Brian Matterson, their leader, had fallen behind. They went back and found him sitting on a rock. "Carry on," he said, "I'll rest a while and catch up soon". The party exchanged glances, and decided, "We won't split the party in these conditions, and we'll keep warmer if we're walking. We'll go a bit slower and make sure we keep together." They set off.
  
-It wasn't long before Brian wanted to stop again. After some cajoling he got going, but the others were worried. As a boy, Brian had suffered a mild attack of polio which had left him very susceptible to cold. Next time he stopped, someone offered him a jumper and they shared out some of his gear. The time after that he lay down and said he was going to sleep. He was dragged to his feet and chivvied along until he lay down a last time and refused to move. This was serious. In despair, the walkers kicked +It wasn't long before Brian wanted to stop again. After some cajoling he got going, but the others were worried. As a boy, Brian had suffered a mild attack of polio which had left him very susceptible to cold. Next time he stopped, someone offered him a jumper and they shared out some of his gear. The time after that he lay down and said he was going to sleep. He was dragged to his feet and chivvied along until he lay down a last time and refused to move. This was serious. In despair, the walkers kicked him (with sandshoes) until he got up. Somehow poor Brian was dragged, shoved and half-carried up the terrible ascent of the frozen, slimy old wooden steps to the Govett's Leap Lookout. A nightmare journey indeed!
-him (with sandshoes) until he got up. Somehow poor Brian was dragged, shoved and half-carried up the terrible ascent of the frozen, slimy old wooden steps to the Govett's Leap Lookout. A nightmare journey indeed!+
  
 In hindsight, it is clear that at least two lives were saved that weekend because each party STUCK TOGETHER, and had enough strong and experienced walkers to give confidence and support to one another. In hindsight, it is clear that at least two lives were saved that weekend because each party STUCK TOGETHER, and had enough strong and experienced walkers to give confidence and support to one another.
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 As conditions were not favourable on awakening, we all headed for the Kanangra car park with the intention of having breakfast in the cave with Barry, Ray and Adrienne. However, on starting off, we were soon confronted by three "not so amused" persons heading in our direction. It appears that on arriving late at Kanangra the previous night, there was some difficulty in locating the exact route down to the Dance Floor cave. This was not due to the incompetence of the three in question, but due to "restoration?" work being carried out by the N.P.& W.S. By the time the new pathway had been located, they had already spent some considerable time in heavy rain and muddy conditions. As conditions were not favourable on awakening, we all headed for the Kanangra car park with the intention of having breakfast in the cave with Barry, Ray and Adrienne. However, on starting off, we were soon confronted by three "not so amused" persons heading in our direction. It appears that on arriving late at Kanangra the previous night, there was some difficulty in locating the exact route down to the Dance Floor cave. This was not due to the incompetence of the three in question, but due to "restoration?" work being carried out by the N.P.& W.S. By the time the new pathway had been located, they had already spent some considerable time in heavy rain and muddy conditions.
  
-A quick breakfast at the cars soon saw the party of ten moving off for the Coal Seam Gave, where we were to meet three other walkers huddled around a warm glowing fire. Our party soon settled in for a long stay with the conversation centring around predicting the weather. To me it was obvious - we should take it "one cave at a time".+A quick breakfast at the cars soon saw the party of ten moving off for the Coal Seam Cave, where we were to meet three other walkers huddled around a warm glowing fire. Our party soon settled in for a long stay with the conversation centring around predicting the weather. To me it was obvious - we should take it "one cave at a time".
  
 It was to be an extended stop and we moved off soon after having had lunch at the cave. The mist just began to lift in the valleys in front of us as we headed down Gingra Ridge for the turn-off point to Cambage Spire. We would camp that evening on the Kowmung River just upstream from its junction with Christie's Creek. The weather conditions would determine what the party would be doing on the next day. It was to be an extended stop and we moved off soon after having had lunch at the cave. The mist just began to lift in the valleys in front of us as we headed down Gingra Ridge for the turn-off point to Cambage Spire. We would camp that evening on the Kowmung River just upstream from its junction with Christie's Creek. The weather conditions would determine what the party would be doing on the next day.
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 It was just before lunch that we met the first of two parties of walkers, both consisting of two male members in each party. The first It was just before lunch that we met the first of two parties of walkers, both consisting of two male members in each party. The first
-party, both members approximately 25-30 years of age, were completely saturated to the skin, in what can only be described as unsuitable bush walking clothes and equipment, i.e. denim jeans, long ex-army trousers, waist length nylon parkas and cotton 'T' shirts. All of this was saturated with water, with only a flimsy plastic undersized cape to protect them from the heavy downpours that they had been experiencing since leaving BoTd River crossing on Thursday morning.+party, both members approximately 25-30 years of age, were completely saturated to the skin, in what can only be described as unsuitable bush walking clothes and equipment, i.e. denim jeans, long ex-army trousers, waist length nylon parkas and cotton 'T' shirts. All of this was saturated with water, with only a flimsy plastic undersized cape to protect them from the heavy downpours that they had been experiencing since leaving Boyd River crossing on Thursday morning.
  
 When questioned about their route plan, their reply was "Katoomba via Kowmung River, Cox's River, Narrowneck, by SUNDAY LUNCH TIME". Any experienced walker would realise that this would be a demanding trip under normal walking conditions, and yet these two persons had no idea of how long it would take to walk the Kowmung, where their present location was on the Kowmung, and the fact that they were facing a compulsory swim further downstream from our campsite if they were to keep following the river. When questioned about their route plan, their reply was "Katoomba via Kowmung River, Cox's River, Narrowneck, by SUNDAY LUNCH TIME". Any experienced walker would realise that this would be a demanding trip under normal walking conditions, and yet these two persons had no idea of how long it would take to walk the Kowmung, where their present location was on the Kowmung, and the fact that they were facing a compulsory swim further downstream from our campsite if they were to keep following the river.
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 __Saturday, 27.4.85.__ \\ __Saturday, 27.4.85.__ \\
-"And it rainded for 40 days and 40 nights"  as the story goes. Last night and particularly this morning was to be no exception.+"And it rained for 40 days and 40 nights"  as the story goes. Last night and particularly this morning was to be no exception.
  
 "Forget the fire - let's have a cold breakfast and be off by 8.00 am" was the order. Three and half hours later saw us at the Coal Seam Cave, consuming bacon and eggs, toast and honey and other such items that we had missed out on at breakfast time. "Forget the fire - let's have a cold breakfast and be off by 8.00 am" was the order. Three and half hours later saw us at the Coal Seam Cave, consuming bacon and eggs, toast and honey and other such items that we had missed out on at breakfast time.
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 Once again we met some other walkers who were ready to tackle the elements and the mountains. We were pleased it was them and not us. A quick dash to the cars with a change of clothing saw us heading off to Katoomba for that cup of hot chocolate at Aroney's. Once again we met some other walkers who were ready to tackle the elements and the mountains. We were pleased it was them and not us. A quick dash to the cars with a change of clothing saw us heading off to Katoomba for that cup of hot chocolate at Aroney's.
  
-Despite unpleasant walking conditions the members of the party had had many humorous moments shared around the campfires. There was little walking done over the three days but once again the party proved that it is not so much where you walk, but who you walk with that makes the trip.+Despite unpleasant walking conditions the members of the party had had many humorous moments shared around the campfires. There was little walking done over the three days but once again the party proved that it is not so much where you walk, but who you walk with that makes the trip.
  
 ===== ON THE HIGH TOPS AT KOSCIUSKO. ===== ===== ON THE HIGH TOPS AT KOSCIUSKO. =====
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 fit. Several people have smeared their lips and noses with white cream as a protection from the sun. Our hats are colourful and stylish and range from purple spotted cotton, orange terry towelling to Army felt styles. It is February 1985 and we are mainly members of Sydney Bush Walkers. fit. Several people have smeared their lips and noses with white cream as a protection from the sun. Our hats are colourful and stylish and range from purple spotted cotton, orange terry towelling to Army felt styles. It is February 1985 and we are mainly members of Sydney Bush Walkers.
  
-The green-grey mountains are sweeping down to the lake. This mountain is covered in a carpet of silver Snow Daisies, yellow Billy Buttons with oval heads and lilac wildflowers. Scattered over two +The green-grey mountains are sweeping down to the lake. This mountain is covered in a carpet of silver Snow Daisies, yellow Billy Buttons with oval heads and lilac wildflowers. Scattered over two ridges are huge grey boulders and patches of green grass. A track leads down to the Blue lake.
-ridges are huge grey boulders and patches of green grass. A track leads down to the Bite lake.+
  
-"Is this morning tea or early lunch?" enquires one of the walkers. \\+"Is this morning tea or early lunch?" enquirers one of the walkers. \\
 "It's early lunch." \\ "It's early lunch." \\
 "It's very lovely here, even though some of the Snow Daisies are a bit tired," says Barbara Evans. "Funny day, isn't it, a bit overcast but O.K. for walking."\\ "It's very lovely here, even though some of the Snow Daisies are a bit tired," says Barbara Evans. "Funny day, isn't it, a bit overcast but O.K. for walking."\\
 "Yes," I replied as I ate my lunch. "Yes," I replied as I ate my lunch.
  
-We left the cars at Charlotte's Pass and started walking at 9.30 this morning. The track is covered with blue metal and there is a drop of 900' before we climb. Not a tree can be seen as we go up the steep +We left the cars at Charlotte's Pass and started walking at 9:30 this morning. The track is covered with blue metal and there is a drop of 900' before we climb. Not a tree can be seen as we go up the steep 
-grey-green mountains. At 11.15 we stop for a rest and to admire the scenery.+grey-green mountains. At 11:15 we stop for a rest and to admire the scenery.
  
-I decide to walk to the Lake. A March fly is biting me on the foot and there's a cool breeze as I +I decide to walk to the Lake. A March fly is biting me on the foot and there's a cool breeze as I go down the track. I can see a "snow patch" which hasn't melted. Suddenly I look back at the mountain.
-go down the track. I can see a "snow patch" which hasn't melted. Suddenly I look back at the mountain.+
  
 My friends are silhouetted against the slope of the ridge blending into the sky. They are leaving without me and I hurry back to catch them. As I reach the ridge I see a family with a four-year old boy who is wearing a pack on his back. My friends are silhouetted against the slope of the ridge blending into the sky. They are leaving without me and I hurry back to catch them. As I reach the ridge I see a family with a four-year old boy who is wearing a pack on his back.
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 "Isn't it fantastic. Let's take a photo," I say. "Isn't it fantastic. Let's take a photo," I say.
  
-"We're on top of the mountain, the top of the world mid it's beautiful. Let's stay here and enjoy it," says Elaine as we throw ourselves on the grass.+"We're on top of the mountain, the top of the world and it's beautiful. Let's stay here and enjoy it," says Elaine as we throw ourselves on the grass.
  
 "We should throw our watches away," Barry Zieren exclaims. "You can't capture it on camera, all these carpets of pom poms, Snow Daisies and grass shivering in the breeze. We're on Mt. Carruthers and it's 2,140 metres high." "We should throw our watches away," Barry Zieren exclaims. "You can't capture it on camera, all these carpets of pom poms, Snow Daisies and grass shivering in the breeze. We're on Mt. Carruthers and it's 2,140 metres high."
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 "There's a little bird leading us away from its nest," warns Christa as we trudge on. "And don't walk past without seeing this bunch of eight tiny white crocuses." "There's a little bird leading us away from its nest," warns Christa as we trudge on. "And don't walk past without seeing this bunch of eight tiny white crocuses."
  
-The track is narrow here and we're going around a craggy outcrop of boulders. The ground falls away into a chasm. Lake Albina is below. We're on the long trail back with impressive views. It's a climb down to +The track is narrow here and we're going around a craggy outcrop of boulders. The ground falls away into a chasm. Lake Albina is below. We're on the long trail back with impressive views. It's a climb down to the bottom of the valley now through the alpine daisies. A small stream is trickling through the beds of moss and yellow candle heath. Further down there's a bog.
-the bottom of the valley now through the alpine daisies. A small stream is trickling through the beds of moss and yellow candle heath. Further down there's a bog.+
  
 "We have one last long climb." "We have one last long climb."
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 I have heard this expression a number of times but, not surprisingly, the "magic" is not always there. At least not for me. Of course I always like the place but there is a difference between liking and loving. In times of drought, or when the weather is cold and overcast, vital elements are missing. I have heard this expression a number of times but, not surprisingly, the "magic" is not always there. At least not for me. Of course I always like the place but there is a difference between liking and loving. In times of drought, or when the weather is cold and overcast, vital elements are missing.
  
-But on Sunday, January 27, the middle day of Fred George's classic walk (Rock Slabs Creek - Ettrema Tullyangela Creek), the magic of Ettrema was turned on at full volume. For starters the water was flowing (not always so). Not a big flow, mind you, nothing like it was in the spring, but enough to bring the small cascades alive with fluid movement. The famous pools were full, as clear as crystal and at just the right temperature. The sunshine bursting from a cloudless sky combined with gently moving she-oaks to fill the gorge with a sparkling, dancing light.+But on Sunday, January 27, the middle day of Fred George's classic walk (Rock Slabs Creek - Ettrema Tullyangela Creek), the magic of Ettrema was turned on at full volume. For starters the water was flowing (not always so). Not a big flow, mind you, nothing like it was in the spring, but enough to bring the small cascades alive with fluid movement. The famous pools were full, as clear as crystal and at just the right temperature. The sunshine bursting from a cloudless sky combined with gently moving she-oaks to fill the gorge with a sparkling, dancing light.
  
 Fred, an expert on Ettrema, had planned the walk so that the entire day would be spent in the main gorge of Middle Ettrema, from Myall Creek down to Tullyangela Creek. At a total distance of about twelve kilometres it was nothing more than a pleasant stroll, just the way this place should be enjoyed. With the promise of heat to come, a suitable response to those inviting pools surely could not long be delayed. Fred, an expert on Ettrema, had planned the walk so that the entire day would be spent in the main gorge of Middle Ettrema, from Myall Creek down to Tullyangela Creek. At a total distance of about twelve kilometres it was nothing more than a pleasant stroll, just the way this place should be enjoyed. With the promise of heat to come, a suitable response to those inviting pools surely could not long be delayed.
  
-And neither it was! Within a kilometre or so the sounds of splashing and joyous shouts could be heard ahead. An advance group of the twelvestrong party was already at it - diving, bombing, swimming or just lolling in the clear cool shallows. That first pool of the day proved irrestible to one and all.+And neither it was! Within a kilometre or so the sounds of splashing and joyous shouts could be heard ahead. An advance group of the twelve strong party was already at it - diving, bombing, swimming or just lolling in the clear cool shallows. That first pool of the day proved irresistible to one and all.
  
-I do not know how many beautiful swimming pools grace Middle Ettrema. I do know there were many more than the party could use in that day's walking. They came in all shapes, sizes, depths and surroundings - one +I do not know how many beautiful swimming pools grace Middle Ettrema. I do know there were many more than the party could use in that day's walking. They came in all shapes, sizes, depths and surroundings - one had infinite variety along the way. The water had such clarity that, ten feet down, every pebble on the bottom was clearly defined in shape and colour. The lunchtime pool was a particular gem; who could face a suburban swimming pool after that?
-had infinite variety along the way. The water had such clarity that, ten feet down, every pebble on the bottom was clearly defined in shape and colour. The lunchtime pool was a particular gem; who could face a suburban swimming pool after that?+
  
-The popular mode of dress for "tween the pools" was now shirt or top only. Throwing off the pack and garment, before plunging, was simplicity itself, leading to routine. In the usual individual ways of bushwalkers not everyone swam together, for a "five star" pool to one might be "only mediocre" to another, such were we spoilt. Sometimes I would emerge and stagger for three minutes around the corner, there to find something even better than the beauty I had just left behind. Much discipline was then +The popular mode of dress for "tween the pools" was now shirt or top only. Throwing off the pack and garment, before plunging, was simplicity itself, leading to routine. In the usual individual ways of bushwalkers not everyone swam together, for a "five star" pool to one might be "only mediocre" to another, such were we spoilt. Sometimes I would emerge and stagger for three minutes around the corner, there to find something even better than the beauty I had just left behind. Much discipline was then required to keep moving. As the afternoon advanced, a wind so hot that it must have been blowing straight off the Hobs of Hell generated ever more frequent dipping. I remember that I now plunged in shirt and all for the cooling effect of wet clothes. Without the pools I'm sure that day could have proved "a real stinker", as they say.
-required to keep moving. As the afternoon advanced, a wind so hot that it must have been blowing straight off the Hobs of Hell generated ever more frequent dipping. I remember that I now plunged in shirt and all for the cooling effect of wet clothes. Without the pools I'm sure that day could +
-have proved "a real stinker", as they say.+
  
 And so, in the fullness of that memorable day we came to Tullyangela junction in leisurely fashion, there to have a final plunge. But no, it was not, for after making camp some were so hot that it was back to the water yet again. In my time I have enjoyed countless walks in all sorts of places but the Ettrema of that day will stand proudly with the best. And so, in the fullness of that memorable day we came to Tullyangela junction in leisurely fashion, there to have a final plunge. But no, it was not, for after making camp some were so hot that it was back to the water yet again. In my time I have enjoyed countless walks in all sorts of places but the Ettrema of that day will stand proudly with the best.
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 Just prior to this it was decided to form a Nomenclature Committee of Coast and Mountain Walkers of N.S.W. members, and this was the basis of the formation of The Budawang Committee. Information was gathered through research at The Mitchell Library, Field books of surveyors at the archives section of The Public Library, old local identities were interviewed and Major Jim Sturgiss' information was investigated. The committee also found that Ken Angel had named some of the features after his friends and it was obvious the Geographical Names Board would not accept these names. Just prior to this it was decided to form a Nomenclature Committee of Coast and Mountain Walkers of N.S.W. members, and this was the basis of the formation of The Budawang Committee. Information was gathered through research at The Mitchell Library, Field books of surveyors at the archives section of The Public Library, old local identities were interviewed and Major Jim Sturgiss' information was investigated. The committee also found that Ken Angel had named some of the features after his friends and it was obvious the Geographical Names Board would not accept these names.
  
-After much deliberation one hundred and twenty five names were submitted to the Geographical Names Board on 30 October 1967, as required by Section 15 of the Geographical Names Act 1966. In July 1966 we wrote +After much deliberation one hundred and twenty five names were submitted to the Geographical Names Board on 30 October 1967, as required by Section 15 of the Geographical Names Act 1966. In July 1966 we wrote to Ken Angel on our findings and proposed name changes. A letter also went to Keith Renwick on 8 December 1966 on the proposed change of name. It must be remembered the Nomenclature Committee was guided by the Geographical Names Board ruling regarding use of names. They never accepted our submission of "Angel Falls". The Board decided it was "Crooked Falls" on "Angel Creek". (See Jan. '67 and June '68 editions George Elliott's maps.) The third edition map came out in Jan. '67 with the new names. The fourth edition map June '68 was published with the corrected names according to the Geographical Names Board decisions. A note on this edition of the map states that "the Place Names on this map were assigned by Lands Department Notice of 2 February 1968".
-to Ken Angel on our findings and proposed name changes. A letter also went to Keith Renwick on 8 December 1966 on the proposed change of name. It must be remembered the Nomenclature Committee was guided by the Geographical Names Board ruling regarding use of names. They never accepted our submission of "Angel Falls". The Board decided it was "Crooked Falls" on "Angel Creek". (See Jan. '67 and June '68 editions George Elliott's maps.) The third edition map came out in Jan. '67 with the new names. The fourth edition map J4me '68 was published with the corrected names according to the Geographical Names Board decisions. A note on this edition of the map states that "the Place Names on this map were assigned by Lands Department Notice of 2 February 1968".+
  
 In September 1978 I spoke to the Geographical Names Board as to why the new names were not appearing on the C.M.A. Maps, and I was told that all maps were gradually being corrected. The latest 1:25000 Second Edition Milton and Corang Sheets are correct except that some of the names are in the wrong spot (e.g. Trawalla Falls). Confusion has been caused by the late change of names by government departments and perhaps some explanation should have been made in "Pigeon House and Beyond". In September 1978 I spoke to the Geographical Names Board as to why the new names were not appearing on the C.M.A. Maps, and I was told that all maps were gradually being corrected. The latest 1:25000 Second Edition Milton and Corang Sheets are correct except that some of the names are in the wrong spot (e.g. Trawalla Falls). Confusion has been caused by the late change of names by government departments and perhaps some explanation should have been made in "Pigeon House and Beyond".
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 A motion was then put that the Club purchase 3 abseiling ropes and 6 sets of abseiling harness for use on abseiling instructional weekends, total estimated cost $600.00. This was passed after a brief debate; it then emerged that no-one had checked with the Treasurer to ascertain that funds would be available from the year's budget. After some minor procedural wrangles the Treasurer was able to tell us that such a purchase would require cashing one of the Club's securities. A motion was then passed requiring the Club Committee to determine appropriate means of financing the purchase. Barry Wallace gave notice of his intention to move a recission motion at the next General Meeting, citing the lack of a thorough debate and the question of possible legal liabilities which may be incurred by such a move. A motion was then put that the Club purchase 3 abseiling ropes and 6 sets of abseiling harness for use on abseiling instructional weekends, total estimated cost $600.00. This was passed after a brief debate; it then emerged that no-one had checked with the Treasurer to ascertain that funds would be available from the year's budget. After some minor procedural wrangles the Treasurer was able to tell us that such a purchase would require cashing one of the Club's securities. A motion was then passed requiring the Club Committee to determine appropriate means of financing the purchase. Barry Wallace gave notice of his intention to move a recission motion at the next General Meeting, citing the lack of a thorough debate and the question of possible legal liabilities which may be incurred by such a move.
  
-All of which brought us to the Walks Report. Our Walks Secretary was not present so Ainslie Morris stood in. Curiously enough the first walk reported was that of 10,11,12th May led by Bill Capon. Alas there +All of which brought us to the Walks Report. Our Walks Secretary was not present so Ainslie Morris stood in. Curiously enough the first walk reported was that of 10,11,12th May led by Bill Capon. Alas there was no report. Malcolm Steele's Kanangra walk that same weekend was cancelled because the leader was sick with 'flu. Oliver Crawford's walk up The Castle went. There were 17 starters, the weather was fine and the views magnificent. There was also some muttering about getting back to the cars in the dark, but it was winter after all.
-was no report. Malcolm Steele's Kanangra walk that same weekend was cancelled because the leader was sick with 'flu. Oliver Crawford's walk up The Castle went. There were 17 starters, the weather was fine and the views magnificent. There was also some muttering about getting back to the cars in the dark, but it was winter after all.+
  
 The day walks that weekend didn't fare much better. Morag Ryder's Katoomba to Leura walk did not go, Gordon Lee's rockscrambling and abseiling instructional was cancelled and of Ralph Penglis's beach walk there was no news. The day walks that weekend didn't fare much better. Morag Ryder's Katoomba to Leura walk did not go, Gordon Lee's rockscrambling and abseiling instructional was cancelled and of Ralph Penglis's beach walk there was no news.
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 The following weekend, 17,18,19th May, Don Finch led a party of unspecified size on his Capertee/Wolgan River trip. It seems that three people dropped out at lunchtime on the first day and the trip had to be truncated somewhat. Ian Debert's trip to Russel's Needle was deferred until July. Peter Christian's Hue Mountains day walk was slowed somewhat as a pictorial record of the journey was made, but one imagines the party of 31 was spurred on by the deteriorating weather which was reported. Jim Brown led a party of 34 on his Wondabyne area trip. It seems that they may have experienced similar weather, as there was a report of a stampede for home and the early train. The following weekend, 17,18,19th May, Don Finch led a party of unspecified size on his Capertee/Wolgan River trip. It seems that three people dropped out at lunchtime on the first day and the trip had to be truncated somewhat. Ian Debert's trip to Russel's Needle was deferred until July. Peter Christian's Hue Mountains day walk was slowed somewhat as a pictorial record of the journey was made, but one imagines the party of 31 was spurred on by the deteriorating weather which was reported. Jim Brown led a party of 34 on his Wondabyne area trip. It seems that they may have experienced similar weather, as there was a report of a stampede for home and the early train.
  
-Over the weekend of 24,25,26th May, Bill BLirke's Splendour Rock walk was deferred to the following weekend, Jim Laing's reduced Three Peaks Trip was cancelled, and only Jan Mohandas carried the overnight banner with 11 starters on his high speed dash from Glenbrook to Springwood. Of the day walks, there were no details of Hans Stichter's Bouddi National Park walk, and Errol Sheedy's Heathcote trip was reported as led by Derek Wilson with no other details.+Over the weekend of 24,25,26th May, Bill Burke's Splendour Rock walk was deferred to the following weekend, Jim Laing's reduced Three Peaks Trip was cancelled, and only Jan Mohandas carried the overnight banner with 11 starters on his high speed dash from Glenbrook to Springwood. Of the day walks, there were no details of Hans Stichter's Bouddi National Park walk, and Errol Sheedy's Heathcote trip was reported as led by Derek Wilson with no other details.
  
-Cancellations continued to be a feature of the Walks Programme over the weekend of 31st May, lst/2nd June, with Jim Percy and Jan Mohandas both cancelling trips. The ones that did get away were Ainslie Morris's The Castle, Mt. Owen trip, reporting a party of 8 sharing a rainy Saturday night and a gale-torn Sunday, not to mention knee problems and airborne waterfalls; Bill Burke's deferred Splendour Rock ramble with a party of 14 sharing the snug comfort of a large fire while the rain pelted down outside Kcipbs Soak cave; and Bill Holland reporting eparty of 25 plus 4, no make that 9, out of the Grand Canyon, which they reported to be grand indeed, at 1700 Sunday evening. (No, Virginia, I don't think there is any prize for long sentences, just happen to think that way, sometimes.)+Cancellations continued to be a feature of the Walks Programme over the weekend of 31st May, lst/2nd June, with Jim Percy and Jan Mohandas both cancelling trips. The ones that did get away were Ainslie Morris's The Castle, Mt. Owen trip, reporting a party of 8 sharing a rainy Saturday night and a gale-torn Sunday, not to mention knee problems and airborne waterfalls; Bill Burke's deferred Splendour Rock ramble with a party of 14 sharing the snug comfort of a large fire while the rain pelted down outside Mobbs Soak cave; and Bill Holland reporting a party of 25 plus 4, no make that 9, out of the Grand Canyon, which they reported to be grand indeed, at 1700 Sunday evening. (No, Virginia, I don't think there is any prize for long sentences, just happen to think that way, sometimes.)
  
-The June long weekend saw Ian Debert with a party of 14 revellers firing off fireworks at Yerranderie, and bagging the odd peak in their spare time. Bill Capon led a party of 7 people on a speed-blurred tour of some spectacular Budawangs scenery and Gordon Lee and Peter Harris both cancelled their trips in order not to break with tradition. Of the day walks, Ralph Penglis led 23 starters on his Sydney Harbour walk, and Carol Bruce led 21 starters and 15 finishers on a Benowie Track walk, on which the pace was +The June long weekend saw Ian Debert with a party of 14 revellers firing off fireworks at Yerranderie, and bagging the odd peak in their spare time. Bill Capon led a party of 7 people on a speed-blurred tour of some spectacular Budawangs scenery and Gordon Lee and Peter Harris both cancelled their trips in order not to break with tradition. Of the day walks, Ralph Penglis led 23 starters on his Sydney Harbour walk, and Carol Bruce led 21 starters and 15 finishers on a Benowie Track walk, on which the pace was described as brisk. It is also reported that the Sydney Harbour walk crew lunched at the Aschanti Restaurant at Balmoral. Coverage of this event probably rests with the Social Secretary rather than the Walks Report.
-described as brisk. It is also reported that the Sydney Harbour walk crew lunched at the Aschanti Restaurant at Balmoral. Coverage of this event probably rests with the Social Secretary rather than the Walks Report.+
  
 The Walks Report over, we proceeded to the social and walks announcements and then to the close at 2141 hours, and it was all over for another three months save for the ravaging of the coffee and biscuits. The Walks Report over, we proceeded to the social and walks announcements and then to the close at 2141 hours, and it was all over for another three months save for the ravaging of the coffee and biscuits.
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 ===== NEW MEMBERS. ===== ===== NEW MEMBERS. =====
 Please add the following names to your list of members:- \\ Please add the following names to your list of members:- \\
-| | Phone  | +| | Phone  | 
-|JOSEPH, Vincent30 Carlow Street, Crow's Nest, 2065 | 929,2418 | +|JOSEPH, Vincent 30 Carlow Street, Crow's Nest, 2065 | 929,2418 | 
-| HARRIS, Gordon1/16-18 BOronia Street, DeeWhy, 2099 | 982,4799 | +| HARRIS, Gordon 1/16-18 Boronia Street, Dee Why, 2099 | 982,4799 | 
-| HOSKINS, Simon330 MOrrison Road, Ryde, 2112 | 807,4076 | +| HOSKINS, Simon 330 Morrison Road, Ryde, 2112 | 807,4076 | 
-| KING, Robert78/1C Kooringa Road, Chatswood, 2067 | 412,3337 |+| KING, Robert 78/1C Kooringa Road, Chatswood, 2067 | 412,3337 |
  
 ===== SOCIAL NOTES. ===== ===== SOCIAL NOTES. =====
198507.1399901175.txt.gz · Last modified: 2014/05/12 23:26 by simon

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