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A. monthly bulletinof Matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers Incorporated, Box 4476 GPO, Sydney, 2091. Club meetings are held every Wednesday eveningfrom, 8 pm at the Ella Community 'Pentre,. 58a Dalhousie Street Haberfielk(next door to the Post 0ffiee). ,Prospective Members. and visitors are invited to.visitthe ClUb any Wednesday. * *- Morag Ryder, Box 347 PO, Gladesville 2111 Telephone 809 4241 Fran & Bill Holland Telephone 484 6636 Kath Brown Morag Ryder Kenn Clacher, Les Powell, Barrie Murdoch & Margaret Niven EDITOR PRODUCTION TYPIST ILLUSTRATOR PRINTERS * * * * * * *' NOVEMBER 1990 While the Billy Boils The Editor Stop Press - Disaster on the Cox it A Tramping Diary - New Zealand South Island January 1990 - Part One Brenda Cameron 3 Confederation Report - October Kay Chan 7 Twin Valley Tango Ian Wolfe 8 , Trekking in Nepal - Part Two Elaine Walton 11 The October General Meeting Barry Wallace 14 The Christmas Party 14 Theatre Party “A Christmas Carol” 16 New Members 16 Footnotes 16 * * * * * * * Advertisements Willis's Walkabouts 9 Eastwood Camping Centre 10 Happy Walker Adventure Tours 13 Blackheath Taxis & Tourist Services 15 Page 2 2 DISASTER. THE What will happen if the Waterboard build a second dam, above Warragamba? No more crossing the Cox at White Dog - probably not,at Yellow Pup, either. Most of the traditional walking routes accross the lower Cox would cease to 'exist. The lower Kowmung would also be flooded - how far we do not know. It may not be possible to cross at the old gauging station, thus removing easy access to Scotts Main Range. Do you care? - then 'write. To every pollie and newspaper - but most of all to the Water Board! Raise a petition - in cases like these, it's the numbers which count. Contact reputable conservation groups and ask if they approve of another dam in a National Park. Unless you want to lose access to some of the best walking country close to Sydney - DO something about it - right now. (For more details, see the Conservation section of the Confederation Report). Page 2 The Sydney Busilwalker November 1990 Well now, have you filled in your form yet? The one which asks for your suggestions about General Meetings and re-location of the Club rooms? What to do about the meetings isn't so hard, but re-location is a thorny one Firtly, uhat is a 'central location' - central for whom? A quick look at the membership list shows over 220 members living 'points north'. Perhaps this is because the Club rooms were at Crows Nest for years, I'm not sure The city is most easily reached by public transport, but the rents are unreal. A community hall in Glebe or Redfern might be cheap, but would you feel safe there, waiting for public transport late at night? What about North Sydney? Plenty Of eateries, public transport and several major roads passing through. (You can tell I work there can't you?) Or what about Gladesville/Hunters Hill. A bit further south, not somanyeateries, but good access roads and quite good public transport. Any better suggestions? Can you think of a suitable area which has all the desirable features? Then fill in that form dear friend - the committee has need of it! See you on the track…. STOP PRESS November 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker 10%10%,1 A TRAMPING DIARY EW ZEALAND SOUTH ISLAND -. v \-\. “N JANUARY 1990

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- ….– —,, L ''. \ -N.I. , - –, - ..7.“ ' k:\ Jtv1,0,11.44, …, t, ,:. , I l % , 1 %11/ i - I ' \ iv ' f / i./ 1 h /./.1, , -: ( s `…: PART ONE: Rees-Dart, reenstode & Roilteburn tracks. 1/4.. (NPA trip p1arned.and organised by Lindsay Taylor for a party of 14) Saturday, 6 January Flew out of wet Sydney and arrived Christchurch mid afternoon. , Checked in at Meadow Park Motor Camp. Looked around Christchurch in the evening. A pristine town with a quite pretty 19th century cathedral. The town's Saturday night activity seemed confined to one bar playing loud music. Sunday, 7 January Caught.our connecting flight to Queenstown; from our little turbo-prop aircraft; marvellous views of lakes, river's-and mountains. Arrived Queenstown late morning in warm sunshine. Prettily located busy tourist centre. Checked in at Pinewood Motor Camp (our base), where We were also able to lock away our ncn-walking belongings. Later, boarded the “Magic Bus” to take us to Glenorchy, the base for our Rees Dart walk staiting'toMorrow. Lovely 48 km drive along shore of the long Lake Wakutipu, with the snow topped peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park coming into view as we drove north. The drive ,alone was worth the trip to Glenorchy. Checked into Glenorchy Motor Camp early evening (very austere, dormitory type accommodation; pricey for what it was and not recommended). In the long twilight, walked round looking at the local lake and mountain scenery. Fine weather today, but clouds gathering where we will be tomorrow. Monday, 8 January AroUnd.10 am, caught Magic Bus from Gleporchy to. take us to the start of the Rees Dart. walk. Another very scenic journey- to the trackhead;. then at last, at just after llam, and after a brief pause to liberally apply Extra Strength Dimp.tb Our selves (an indispensable and very effective sandfly.deterrent), we were on our way up the enticing Rees Valley. , Ice blue glacial water, with the mountains across the river divesting themselves, of their. snow cover by way of many waterfalls and side creeks. Much of the walking through beech forest, very ancient - lovely trees, mosses and ferns; the ground was very set to walk on. Two swing bridges at different places to cross the Rees. Also a knee-deep swamp to walk through. . Arrived Shelter Rock Hut in the upper part of the valley late afternoon. Hut very, than and full; we pitched our tents outside. Kea birds attcked our tents, as they will. Very-light at night until after 10. Page 4 ydney bushwalker November 1,9a0 Some light showers this afternoon, otherwise weather not too bad and'skies clearing tonight. 11-16-Ktailaalarl Left Shelter Rock Hut, weather getting misty. Gradual uphill walking through the thiCkening mist followed by steep climb to Rees Saddle. In very timely fashion, the weather then slowly started to clear. Stayed at Rees Saddle for about two, hours and witnessed the cloud and mist clearing from the distant mountains down the Dart Valley. Sensational views. The only sounds were the rushing rivers far below and the whirring of comeras. Walked down Snowy Creek Valley almost to the junction of Dart River, then 8 steep drop down to Dart Hut via another swinging swing bridge. Small hut was full; we pushed on for another hour to Whitburn Flat to camp (via a quite hair-raising swing bridge that swung over the rushing torrents). Large open flat campsite surrounded by mountains.: Weather today mostly sunny onceq110 mtst and cloud had cleared. Wedneaday,,10 JanuarY Left Whitburn Flat at just after 8 am. Firstly, had to retrace our steps back over the swinging footbridge to regain the track. Through more prtty beech forest, then Cattle Flat - a large flat grassed area, with wild flowers sprinkled in the long grass surrounded by snow-topped mountains against the bright blue sky. It really was lovely -, at any moment I expected Julie Andrews to come frolicking across the grass, intoning about the hills being alive with, the sound of music. More such flats followed alternating with more beebh forest. Camped just before Sandy Bluff right by the river, another lovely camp site, although we had to fight off the sandf lies. First priority: liberal application of Dimp (very effective). Super weather today. Thursday, 11 January Last day of the Rees Dart walk; had about 24 km to do to take us to the end of the walk and our bus due at 3 pm:' Left campsite at 6.55 am. The early morning air felt pleasantly brisk. Lovely scenery again,' through more beech forest, attractive gravel flats, with the ice-blue, wide, fast-flowing Dart on our right and the mountains above us. ”' MoUntains dropped behind and scenery became more pastoral. Walk finished With 10 km fatri road bash:- -'Arrived at bus park- at around 12.30. So ended the very, very beautiful Rees Dart walk. Enjoyed a leisurely lunch before the tiOs.opmeto take:us backtoGlenotchy and its welcoming pub andother refreshment Places. Weather'still glorious. Friday, 12 January A day in Queenstown - washing, drying, shopping and packing for next Walk Starting tomorrow.' Saturday, 13. January Back to the tracks today, all hopefuly with restored knees and feet., Rain overnight, but a fine, humid, warm morning. Caught Magic BOs for Glenorchy at around 8 am Another scenic ride alongside Lake Wakutipu, accompanied by cloudless skies and The Remarkables mountain range. From Glenorchy we were taken by pre-booked motor boat to ,the other side of Lake Wakutipu and landed near the tiny township of Kinloch; theh by van to the starting point of both the Caples and Greenstone tracks. Opted to walk up the Greenstone mainly because of fragile areas on the Caples. Two swing bridges and a very prety gorge later, we were at Greenstone 'River. Popular fishing river amidst peaceful pastoral scenery in a green and pleasant valley. More beech forest, too. Weather still lovely but had to battle against a very strong wind as we progressed up thevalley. At around 6 pm, reached junction with Steele Creek, crossed another swing bridge, to arrive at our welcome campsite - a delightful, location, a sheltered wooded place out of the wind. Sunday, 1, Left campsite at 9 am. After yesterday's hard work, today we had only about 14 km to do. As we emerged on to the open track, the unabated wind hit us again.. More pastoral'valley scenery with the river winding through the valley, a few cattle and attractive beech forest. November 1 99 0 The sydney uusnweiKer Pegs b Reached McKellar Hut, last on the Greenstone, at lunch time with weather starting to look threatening up the valley. Reached our campsite near Lake McKellar in spitting rain. However, splendid views up and down the valley in the changingcloud and mist patterns. Had to be patient waiting for our suppers to cook on the damp, slow-burning New Zealand wood. Heavy rain overnight with some thunder and lightning. One or two members of our party awoke to rising water levels in their tents! 1!P0PY? 15 Today, something completely different - a tourist trip to Milford Sound. Left our wet campsite at 7.30 am for the short walk to Howden Hut, by Lake Howden, in the Routeburn Track. Raining and misty. Left our packs at the hut, with warden's permission. Half an hour walk to The Divide (lowest pass in the Southern Alps). Saw a most spectacular rainbow amid the swirling mists and clouds. Chilly wet wait in a bus shelter, then got on the nice warm Inter-City bus for journey through mist and rain which took us past peaks soaring up into the mists with waterfalls abundant. Arrived late morning at Milford Sound harbour. Visibility not good, still raining, but good view of dramatic Mitre Peak soaring precipitouSly out of the water. One hour cruise up the Sound; scenery absolutely stunning, made more so by the wet misty conditions with occasional shafts of weak sunlight; eventually felt the swell of the open Tasman Sea. All around, sheer peaks soared out of the water; and waterfalls, long thin ones, wide roaring ones, sending spray over us. I believe today we saw Milford Sound at its most sublime. On the return bus, had a brief stop at a roaring river, walked round the fenced track, viewed the fearsome chasm below and weird rock formations carved by the fierce waters bashing against and eroding the granite. Back at The Divide, walked back to Lake Howden Hut, where we remained till next morning. Weather outside - cold, watery sun, showers and wind; very wet overnight. A 40-bunk hut with modern amenities including flush loos - however, all the amenities-in the world won't zap all the snoring. Long sleepless night. Looked forward to opportunity to sleep again in my quiet tent. Tuesday, 16 January. Rain, mist and cold - at 8.30 am with wet weather gear on, started our Routeburn Walk from Howden Hut, tramping along the easy track. Very pretty beech forest - just as well as it was all we could see in the mist - lavishly covered with mosses and lichens. Reached Mackenzie Hut at just after 11 am; piled gratefully into its warmth for half an hour. Left hut at 11.30 and commenced the steady ascent towards Harris Saddle. Rain stopped but still misty. Climbed out of forest and into the open whereupon the mists began to part, giving us glimpses of lovely Lake Mackenzie below, vividly blue-green. Sidled along under a ridge with occasional distant views, as the mists would allow, of Hollyford Valley. Large daisy-type wild flowers abounded. Very exhilarating walking. A number of people on the track, with the weather now dry, windy and cold and stilll quite misty. A steep short climb brought us to Harris Saddle and clear weather. Had lunch out of the wind by the shelter, watched over by a lone kea bird; it seemed quite tame, some of us got good close-up pictures. Continued past glacial Harris Lake, gradually descended the mountainside, past Routeburn Falls and down to Routeburn Flats for our camp. The view from Routeburn Falls down to Routeburn Flats far below is the stuff postcards are made of. Idyllic flat campsite by the forest and peaceful winding Route Burn with lovely views of the mountains above. About half of the party elected to sleep in the nearby hut; after last night's tribulations with the snorers, I seized the opportunity to put up my tent. Page 6 The Sydney Bushwalker Nov,ember.19.9D Wednasdayi 17 Januar/ So much for the “idyllic campsite”. During the night, the heavens opened and the rain was not to stop all day.. Early morning conditions were appalling and getting worse. Floodwaters from “peaceful winding Route RUrn” rising rapidly and the whole of the surrounding area awash. We decided to chance it and try and Complete the walk, rather than hang about waiting for conditions to improve. But there was the chance of being forced to turn back; it was as bad as that. At; 8.30, with thermals, jumpers andwet weather gear on, prepared to brave the vicious elements,.we were on our way. Everywhere. Saturated and waterlogged with rushing side creeks to, negotiate. First we had to wade up. to waist high.through a flooded field with hideous large uneven tussocks under the cold swirling water. We lurched: along bravely, but it was very difficult.- As one Member of our. 'party, remarked, we must. havelooked like a party of multi-coloured drunks. It was extremely cold, too;. had.to. keep moving. Eventually, stumbled gratefully from the swamped tussocks on to the forest track, but Soon had swollen side creeks to cross, with wooden footbridges which were only just clear of the rising watersAboUt three-quarters 6f an hour after leaving the'hut, we'came to two particular side creeks which the hut warden had warned us may be uncrossable. However, they were safely crossed, with the aid of arm-linking across the first and a Strategically placed fallen log to lean against across the second., Therest of the track was straightforward:, with torrential Route Burn roaring alongside us. Over a final swing bridge and, at just before 12; arrived at Routebuin Shelter.' We were wet, cold, thirsty and hungry - and very exhilarated after Our experience. A,longish wait for the daily bus to depart, so plenty of time to dry out and warm up-(the weiting-buS:had.thoughtfully provided a large thermos of hot drinks) and engage in much animated conversation While reliving our morning's experience. “As We.were waiting, the rain eased somewhat and the waters of Route Burn visibly dropped a little. The scenery up the Routeburn Valley through the mists was fantastic. - mountains - with spectacular waterfalls shone upon by weak shafts of sunlight, and beyond, when visibL ility allowed, the snow-topped mountains. Back to Glenorchy.,on the bus' and to the pub and about the best beers and hamburger I've ever had: So that was the famous Routeburn Walk. We had had it in all its humours - mist in the beech forests, super clear views on the descent into Routeburn Valley, the flooded fields and raging, swollen creeks of this morning. Would not have missed any of it for the world. * * * * * * * * * THAT WINTER HOLIDAY, GOING NORTH? Preparations for longer trips to Queensland or New England take time, so start planning now for that winter holiday. For Queensland, “The Bushwalkers Guide to South East Queensland” has been produced by the Brisbane Bushwalkers Club. Lots of useful information, helps you make the most of your time there. “Guide to North Eastern N.S.W.” is published by the Uni. of New England Mountaineering Club, overlaps.a little but is mainly further south. “North-East N.S.W.” by Blanch and Kean, is published by Atrand. It concentrates on the Caldera Rim near Mount Warning, Terania C@ek, Tweed and Nightcap Ranges. Plenty of information,on the flora and geology of the region. Good for day walks and the less fit. November 1 99 The Sydney Sushtualker Page 7 CONFEDERATION REPORT FOR MEETING HELD 16 OCTOBER '90 by Kay Chan The meeting opened with about 20 or so representatives from the different clubs, with Gordon Lee presiding. After reading the previous meeting's minutes matters discussed were:- Correspondence There were a number of items. A letter from the N.P.W.S. came in reply to letter of complaint from Confederation, regarding the misuse of oversnow vehicles by Park Rangers in the Kosciusko National Park. The NPWS requested that instances of misuse be reported for invest- igation. As this had already been done in the Confederation's original letter, a letter is to be sent to NPWS requesting that the use of skidoos in the park be restricted to essential services only. Also of note was a letter from a club advising that they could not increase their annual fees (to cover the increase in Confederation fees) without the approval of their Annual General Meeting. This club also indicated that they considered themselves to be disadvantaged by being located outside of Sydney and therefore not fully able to participate in Confederation-activities. This prompted some discussion resulting in a proposal that the Confederation Annual G:neral Meeting be held as a weekend event. This would enable remote clubs to actively participate in Confederation affairs. A host Club is sought to organise the event in liaison with the Confederation. Volunteers please! Annual General Meeting An extraordinary meeting is called for November in order to receive the now completed Treasurers Report, and to move the A.G.M. to a suitable weekend date. Search'&'ReScue First Aid Certificates for those who took part in the May First Aid Course are now available for collection. Please contact Keith Maxwell on 622 0049 for more information. A second course is to be held on the 27/28 October. A S & R training weekend is also being staged in the Royal National Park on the 20/21 October. Tracks & Access Access to the Royal National Park at Engadine station is still not possible on account of the fence surrounding the station. Furthermore “No Trespassing” signs have now appeared in the area. A motion was passed to pursue the matter with the State Rail Authority and to voice Confederation's objection to the closure of public access to the park. A work party will be held on the first weekend in November to restore the Maxwell Tops walking track to a negotiable route. This is being organised in conjunction with the NPWS. Conservation Repart. It was reported that the Water Board had been surveying in the lower Kowmung area with regard to a proposal for the construction of a second dam above1 the existing Warragamba Dam. An invitation has been received from the Water Board to participate in an evening of discussion on the environment. A Confederation delegate was appointed to attend with a view to raising the above issue. General Business Clubs were reminded that Confederation fees were overdue for a number of clubs. Also Confederation was still waiting for completed questionaires listing details of the different clubs and their activities so that work on a data base could be started. Finally there was proposal that Confederation draft a policy on what, as prime users of national parks, it expects from the NPWS. Any input is welcome. Please contact the Confederation with your views. * * * * * * NOTE: It is also understood that the Confederation Secretary is still seeking an assistant to take the Minutes of the meetings and to print and distribute theth.- Without this help he may not be able to carry on. - Also the position of Publicity Officer for the Confederation has not yet been filled. Can anyone help with either of these jobs? Page 8 The Sydney Bushwalker November 1990 TWIN VALLEY TANGO by Ian Wolfe I must be doing something right this year as every time I have ventured southwards to the snow the sun has shone bright and strong. Gone is the wind and ice and peering through the murk. Instead lovely views and fresh untracked snow has been my lot. :Well, in mid-August 8 others shared this bounty as we skiied from Thredbo to Perisher via the rim of the Thredbo River Valley. The chair lift provided an easy ascent to the top ofThredbo for a mere $12'($2/100 metres of ascent). Then we were off,. contouring 'through the bogons and snow gullies past Merritts Spur to Twin Valleys.

En. route we disturbed two wombats placidly pacing through the snow in the 'broad daylight. One of' them took exception to the girls' cries of greeting and proceeded to bound through the snow towardsthe treeline. (—–,–,,, . - 444-1-06 iztcrs cftmir Cr vA;Al 1-44v er krr 4 LVAJC if /N P We later found another wombat who had sbooped out a great- heap of Snow to - 'expose the snow grass and we were able to view him happily mOnching. away from 2 metres (do wombats Suffer from snow 'blindness like humans?). Twin Valleys proved to be a great post-lunch downhill skiing practise spot, , except that the snow was too deep and soft. 'So at every third turn over you went, in a tangle of skis, stocks and limbs! Great, big, frightening fast telemarks seemed to work some of the time. Anyway,. we eventually tired. of picking oUrselves:Up off the. snow and shouldered our packs once. more.. Only a short trip brought us to the ruin of Stillwell's Restaurant for afternoon tea before proceeding on to camp on a delightful shelf in Trapyard Creek. Getting water proved to be a slight problem due to the depth of the snow but after one unsuccessful attempt where yours truly disappeared out of sight into a hole, we eventually found a suitable snow hole to fill our bladders. After a brilliant sunset the night was clear and cold with stars carpeting the sky There are waterfallsandpahn filled gorges to be found up in the north but there are no tracks to take you there when you decide io sally forth. Experienced bushwalkers with good map and compass skills do not need a guide to do an extended walk in Kakadu or the Kimberley. However, going on a Walkabouts trip means that: 1. Theyhavealeaderwhoknowswheretofindthebestswimmingholes,waterfalls,campsites,Abori inal art sites, etc. 2. They don't have to worry about organising transport to get to and from the walk. 3. All the red tape involved in obtaining back country camping permits is taken care of before arrival. 4. Every evening, they get to relax while a delicious three course meal is prepared or em. Treat yourself to a trek through one of the best W A L*4 bushwalking areas ii Australia. EEE 46 For full details of the 1991 program, write A WILLIS'S WALKABOUTS 12 Carrington Street 110, v. MILLNER NT 0810 Phone (089) 85 2134 -qv (089) 85 23$5 ,

November 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page g , - - The following morning again brought the sun to warm our tents and accompany our breakfast. -I had gone on an early morning ski and held a brief conversation with a young fox on his way home from a, night on the range, but alas not a wombat did I spy. The rest of Sunday was consumed by traversing hill anadale through the snow gums, to eventually wind our way back to Perisher. The drivers went off via the Ski Tube ($9) to catch the ,Pioneer Bus ($5 - leaves past the hour) from Bullock's Flat-to Thredbo to pick up the cars. The rump of the party, concurrently casting aside theirprinciples, condescended to practise their downhill technique on the commercial slopes to the roar of piped music! In all 'a -very enjoyable eas medium trip which left its legacy of sunburn, quiet aches and pleasant memories. * * * 4 * * * * * * * QLD QBB Butter Concentrate NSW Sleeping Bags J & H, Mont, Romans Rainwear Mont, J & H, Superior Day Packs High Tops, Summit Gear Bonwiek Caving Ladders Holeproof Undies 4 Socks Trailblazer Hats DB ,tuff Canyon bags TAS- Blundstone Boots NT Beef tier WA Wilderness Equipment Backpacks Goretes Clothing Cycle Panniers Outgear Backpacks Accessories Feathertop Wool Shirts Giant Trees Dried meals EASTWOOD CAMPING CENTRE 3 Trelawney St (PO Box 131) Eastwood NSW 2122 SA ACT National Maps Rossi Bo ts Fl ers Baby Carriers Vie NOvember lee The Sydney Bushwalker Page 11 At Ghunsa on our way down we had 4 inches of snow and at Kyapra we had 5 inches of snow. The tents collapsed under the weight, but they were soon righted. On our return trip we were to leave Dhunsa and climb the pass to Lapsang La, but because of heavy snow this pass was closed so We 'continued down to Sinwa where we branched off towards Taplejung. This town was the largest one we had seen on the whole of the trek. There was electricity and a good array of Nepalese style shops as well as an Army base of 200 men. A large number of house had iron roofs instead of the thatched variety as it is a town closer to the bus terminal, but even then it takes a porter about three days to carry the corrugated iron on his back. This is the only mode of transporting goods from village to village and we even saw a man being carried to hospital in one of the baskets. . Down to Dobhan and on to Gupha Pokhari - a town I will remember for two reasons,-. One, on the way up we climbed 5000 feet to reach this town in one day, and coming down we had a severe storm early evening and the tents came down. This time we had to spend a night in a village hotel as nothing could be done till the weather cleared. The sherpas and Porters couldn't do enough to help us. The mess tent was the only standing tent so we still ate our meal that night in the tent. Freezing cold and our feet in running water but at least we had a dry bed in the hotel even if it was Nepalese style. Then it was on to Chauki with rolling hills which were dotted with very large rhododendrons - a different terrain to earlier on the trek. OUr last night was it Basantpur - a town with a good choice of shops and products because there was not the problem of transport, it being the bus terminal. We had a 24 hour bus trip back from this town to Kathmundu and although long it was interesting. People walk along the roads all night as if they have nowhere to sleep. Traffic with no lights and we had to stop at each village to pay a fee for the road pole to be lifted. We were on the track for 27 days - a group of 12 in the party. We had four sherpas, one head cook, four kitchenhands, 38 porters which depleted as the trek went further into time

4.5 5-6 5 tail , Page 12 The Sydney Bushwalker NOVEIMOUr.100U because of less food etc. to carry. Our meals were quite interessing and surprisingly varied, all things considered. Breakfast - Eggs omelette style, with either light porridge or muesli, together with toast. When that ran out we had chapattis with coffee or tea, and towards the end we were having hot chocolate. Lunch , Warm orange juice (because water had to be boiled, but in the high country we enjoyed the hot drink). Always a cooked lunch, e.g. fried cauliflower, chips and cooked coleslaw (which was cooled) with chapattis or bread and tinned fruit plus tea. A lot of potatoes were on the menu as all farms grew them in abundance. Dinner - Popcorn nearly every night, soup, vegetables and gravy. We rarely had red meat as it was expensive, but we had poultry, and; always plenty of seconds. For dessert we had a small quantity of custard, some nights we had a cake.' Coffee. or tea to drink. Water bottles were filled with hot water at night, ready for next day. A lot of the group used them as heating for their feet at night. , The Parters'were chosen by the head porter and he knew them ell, so if. anything disappeared from the bags or they themselves disappeared, they could be traced. The head,sherpaipoke English and the other sherpas had a reasonable. grasp of English but all were eager to learn all the time. Not many of the porters spoke English. We took out the four sherpas and the head cook for lunch at K.C.'s restaurant in Kathmandu to have an English meal. This restaurant is very popular as they serve western meals. It appeared the boys enjoyed their meal but at times looked a bit embarrassed. They all had steak and some of them had not used cutlery as we do, so it was an experience for them. They generally have food which can be eaten with the hand, and it is the right hand only, for hygiene purposes. “As the Dew is dried up by the first morning sun

So are the Sins of mankind by a glimpse of the Himalaya” (-7 A-c)”- r k Hindu Mythology. 12th Century. 4` %., A
'-' \ (=J.,- , 4> ici ` /- r'171- Ni>\ - ,…/r (—` ,-.“' ,,\…. \ ,,-*/1 I- -r N c 11-T7r '\ fri” e re- f '-' r51:k \\77 r rr-.1) ZSfY , November 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 13, KAKADU TASMANIA VICTORIA FLINDERS RANGES NSW RED CENTRE r HAPPY WALKER ADVENTURE TOURS WHAT MAKES OUR TOURS SPECIAL? * Leisurely Walks We incorporate leisurely walks from 5 minutes to a full day to really get to the essence of an area. * Two Leaders for 16 People This lets us cater for those wanting a gentle stroll and those with extra energy. * Unrushed We cover fewer road km but enjoy and absorb each area more, with mostly 2 or more nights in each camp. * Best Time of Year Because we cover such a diverse area, we can programme tours for their best season. * Length of Tour From 4-day Victorian lours to 16-day Red Centre, we cater for all preferences and pockets. * Attention to Camp Comfort Essential for a happy group. 2inch foam mattresses, doonas,.your own pillow from home, chairs with back& large tents with a torch light in each. * Budget Prices KAKADU/TOP ENO Darwin 11101101d Kakadu Milled Mactionnell fie. 0. Alice Springs Ayers Rock SiOlgas RED CENTRE Perth 1 RANDES 4,Mt 17.-eix.;tar '-' LI ' 1 FNDERS Ifierrumbungles I NSW VOLCANICS & SAN STONE f.KierienuraBoyd 4, . –, - Sydney HIGH PLAINS & FEATHERTOP NSW SOUTH COAST . MT BUFFALO ' – I. MOUNTAINS GRAMPIANS 0. SNOWY MTNS & FAR SOUTH COAST WonnangeIle.Moroke WILSONS PROM. & WALKERVILLE 01 WAYS & PORT CAMPBELL TASMANIA Brisbane Are you on our mailing list? If not, why notsend for our new brochure or ring us Name Address Send to Happy Walker Adventure Tours P.O. Box 886, Croydon, Vie. 3136 Rh- M317252721 Page 14 The Sydney Bushwalker Novemoer Iwwu THE OCTOBER GENERAL MEETING by Barry Wallace The meeting came to order at around 2023 with the President presiding and some 16 or so members more or less present. There were apologies from Alan Mewett and for Bill Holland's singing. There was also an extended preamble/explanation of the form which this new, improved general meeting was to take, your scribe was even presented with a printed agenda. You will probably have read the notes from the October committee meeting in last month's magazine, so will be aware of the intended changes even though they may not be obvious through these notes. New members Greg Curtois, Greg Bridge, and Jennifer and JOhn Berryman were welcomed into membership in the traditional way. The Minutes of the previous meeting were read and received with no matters arising. - 'Correspondence had been filtered to remove the dross of circulars, commercial entreaties and autli. We were left with a letter calling-for nominations for Federation office bearers, a letter from the Ella Community Centre advising us of the revised rental rates which are to apply from the beginning of November, and outgoing letters to our new members. The Treasurer's Report indicated that we have to date earned $13,636, spent $9,591, and closed with a balance of $4,044. Conservation Report brought news of our having sent a letter to the Prime Minister regarding wood chipping operations in the South East Forests. There was also a report on Naturml Aueas Ltd, a management organisation controlling a tract of almost unspoilt bushland near Dee Why. Patrick wasn't fooling anyone, masquerading as Greta when it came time for the Social Secretary's Report. I don't remember the details, and the events will all be long past by the time you read this. The report was sprinkled with“terrific”, “must attend”, “entertain”, “educate and inform” and other such semantically keyed motivational phrases. It was all so slickly done that I don't even remember him suggesting we mine. TN b Walks Report began at the weekend of 14,15,16 September with George Mawer's Goulburn River walk as a “no go”. Oliver Crawford led a party of 6 on his Newnes - Mount Dawson McLeana Pass (Wollemi N.P.) trip, which was described as a good walk. There was no report of Rudi Dezelin's Kuringai Chase day walk and Rob Webb's Bundeena to Otford and return was called off for some obscure reason, but Alan Mewett is reported to have had 5 people and good weather on his Dharug N.P. trip and Errol Sheedy had 4 on his Waterfall to Otford walk the same day. The weekend 21,22,23 September saw Les Powell and a party of 3 braving the rather higher than usual waters of Ettrema Greek. Eddie Giacomei had 16 on his Blue Gum Forest day walk in fine weather and Morrie Ward led a party of,14,through wet conditions on his Wattagan day walk, though strangely enough they reported no leeches. Carol Lubbers reported that a walk, cancelled due to flooding, had been a very nice walk with 8 starters. This is wholly consistent with the fact that I can find no walk'which relates to this in any way on the program. Over the Labour Day weekend, September 28,29,30, October 1, George Mawer led a party of 16 (2 early scratchings had reduced the field from 18) on his Porters Creek - Clyde River - Pigeon House Creek walk through rain and fog to the camping cave on Talaterang for Saturday, and then via a series of passes along Dummal Creek to an appointment with the leeches of the Clyde on Sunday evening. All in all Monday was a long day, with their return to the cars at around 2000 hours being almost as much a relief to the scratchings as to the party. I am advised that the scramble up Rusden Head in the last of the twilight helped to sharpen the concentration wonderfully. Ian Debert's Namadgi base camp that same weekend had the 5 starters moving their base camp by car each day in weather which was described as marginal. Ian Rannard had 5 on his Hilltop to Katoomba trip enjoying excellent views, only slightly dampened by the occasional rain showers. November 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 15 Barrington Tops was the site for Morrie Ward's Whispering Gully - Karuah River trip over the weekend 5,6,7 October. There were 4 starters. Nancye Alderson's Saturday Springwood historical ramble was deferred one week. Alan Mewett had 8 on his Woy Way to Wondebyne Sunday walk. They reported excellent sightings of waratahs but the signs of civilisation tended to intrude somewhat. Jim, Percy led a party of 18 to program on his Lawson Ridge trip to complete the Walks Report. There was no report from Federation (Confederation) as they now hold meetings only every quarter. General Business saw mention of the fact that Stan Madden has offered to accept our old offset printer and what's more he has Offered to print our magazine covers on it as well. Thank you, Stan! Jim Callaway addressed the meeting on behalf of a group called Friends of the Hacking River. This group are concerned at a major development proposed for Helensburgh involving some 2,000 homes and 40 hectares of industrial land, and at the impact that such a development would have on he Hacking River., 'A motion was passed that we donate $200.00. to the Friends of the Hacking River. . There was an announcement by the archivist that there is room for yet,more materials in the archives, and that if members have, or know of people who have, suitable memorabilia they should contact Ian Debert and discuss the matter. The meeting closed at 2025. THE CHRISTMAS PARTY The Christmas Party will take place on 19th December in the clubroom. Please bring along a plate of party food and a glass. The Club will provide theArinks. BLACKHEATH TAXIS & TOURIST SERVICES 10 & 1E1 SEATER MINI BUS TAXI 047-87 8366 KANANGRA BOYD UPPER BLUE MOUNTAINS SIX FOOT TRACK PICK UP ANYWHERE FOR START OR FINISH OF YOUR WALK - BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT Share the Fare Competitive Rates Page 16 The Sydney HUSMWalKer NOvember 1990 THEATRE PARTY Date: Thursday, 6th December Play: Noel. Ferrier in “A CHRISTMAS CAROL” from the book by Charles Dickens Theatre: Marian Street Theatre, Killara Pride: $20 Pen/Stu $14. Phone FAZELEY READ 909 3671 a.s.a.p, * * * * * * * * BRUSH UP ON YOUR MAP-READING. A tutorial weekend on map reading and bush navigation will be conducted on 1/2nd December by GORDON and SERALIA LEE. The instruction will be carried out from a base camp in the BELL area. For details and arraninging transport phone Kay Chan (Home 427 5934, Work 957 0458). NEW MEMBERS PLease add the following names and addresses to your List of Members:- BERRYMAN, Jennifer - 14 Alexandra Street, Drummoyne 2047 (H) 819 7410 BERRYMAN, John - (0) 230 1622 BRIDGE, Gregory - Unit 9, 13 Belmont Aye, Wollstonecraft 2065 (B) 437 6655 (M),.437 5614 CHALLIS, Miriam - 1/36 Raymond Rd, Neutral Bay 2089 953 5825 (B) 225 0200 (H) CURTOIS, Gregory - 14/67 Louisa Rd, Birchgrove 2041 (B) 808 0363. (H) 810 4592 3V*4 FOOTNOTES A METROPOLIS FOR THE ROYAL NATIONAL.PARK? In 1984, Wollongong Council stated that it was the Council's 'first priority to promote the urban expansion of Helensburgh, to a population of 30,000. 1 The Water Board has already been investigating sewerage services to Otford, Stanwell Tops arid Stanwell Park - and for- an'ocean outfall. (Just what we need, all the beach of the R.N.P. to ti polluted with sewage.) This urban sprawl will include about 2,000 new building lots and a 42 hectare industrial estate. You don't fancy it? Then ring the Helensburgh Protection Society, (042) 94 2877, and speak to them about it. You can also get more info, by ringing Keith Muir at the T.E.C. on 247 4714. ** GOING NORTH? A new map of Kakadu is available. Produced by The Australian Surveying and Land Information Group (AUSLIG). A 1:25,000 topo map of Kakadu National Park and surrounds. Includes the whole park and extends south to Katherine. Identifies sealed and unsealed roads and walking tracks. Contour intervals of 50 metres; size of map 90cm x 115cm. Cost - about $11. * * * * * * * * * *

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