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**In This Issue**\\ | **In This Issue**\\ | ||
| Page| | | | | | Page| | | | | ||
- | | 2| |Join the Coolana Friends - HELP!|Joan Rigby | | + | |2| |Join the Coolana Friends - HELP!|Joan Rigby | |
- | | 2| |Vale Edna Garrad|Endless Love| | + | |2| |Endless Love|George Mawer| |
- | | 3| |The South Coast of Tasmania| Brian Holden| | + | |3| |The South Coast of Tasmania| Brian Holden| |
- | | 4| |Is this the last volley| Len Hainke| | + | |4| |Is this the last volley| Len Hainke| |
- | | 5| |Legal Aspects of Leading a bushwalk|| | + | |5| |Legal Aspects of Leading a bushwalk |
- | | | + | | | |A few points to keep in mind|| |
- | | 6| |From the Clubroom| Jan Roberts| | + | |6| |From the Clubroom| Jan Roberts| |
- | | 9| |Early Days of the Royal| Errol Sheedy| | + | |9| |Early Days of the Royal| Errol Sheedy| |
- | | 11| |About Leeches - the little pets|Peter Miller| | + | |11| |About Leeches - the little pets|Peter Miller| |
- | | 12| |February General Meeting Notes| Barry Wallace| | + | |12| |February General Meeting Notes| Barry Wallace| |
- | | 14| |Wilderness Visions -| | + | |14| |Wilderness Visions -| |
- | | | + | | | |Trying to save the Grose: A letter to the editor| Maurice Smith| |
- | | 16| |The Cross Cut Saw (May 1969) A worthwhile repeat trip story|Pat Harrison| | + | |16| |The Cross Cut Saw (May 1969) A worthwhile repeat trip story|Pat Harrison| |
===== Advertisers ===== | ===== Advertisers ===== | ||
- | |Willis' | + | |Willis' |
|Eastwood Camping Centre | |Eastwood Camping Centre | ||
|Paddy Pallin | |Paddy Pallin | ||
Line 54: | Line 54: | ||
- | Join The Coolana Friends | + | ====== |
By the time you read this, the noxious weed eradication spraying on the Coolana flats should be completed. For effective action, we should not disturb the sprayed weeds for three weeks - until the end of March. | By the time you read this, the noxious weed eradication spraying on the Coolana flats should be completed. For effective action, we should not disturb the sprayed weeds for three weeks - until the end of March. | ||
- | During February a small but energetic group has cleared a grid of paths through the flats, cut and removed fallen timber, and, moving more easily across the flats, realised just how pleasant a | + | During February a small but energetic group has cleared a grid of paths through the flats, cut and removed fallen timber, and, moving more easily across the flats, realised just how pleasant a place it can be. |
- | place it can be. | + | |
- | Others have tackled the weeds elsewhere. around the shed and down they old roadlooks | + | Others have tackled the weeds elsewhere: around the shed and down the old road looks better already, whilst the grassy clearing below, weeded by the Hollands |
Now, what should we do next? Well, a working bee on the flats from 30th March to 2nd April is planned, with a follow up 13-16th April if needed. Come for one day or come for all, but ring George Mawer first if interested. After that we are considering a long weekend, to cater for working people and retirees, over possibly the second weekend each month. Watch this magazine for details. | Now, what should we do next? Well, a working bee on the flats from 30th March to 2nd April is planned, with a follow up 13-16th April if needed. Come for one day or come for all, but ring George Mawer first if interested. After that we are considering a long weekend, to cater for working people and retirees, over possibly the second weekend each month. Watch this magazine for details. | ||
- | Of course, if you want to visit Coolana at any other time and do a bit for its future, do so, but perhaps' | + | |
+ | Of course, if you want to visit Coolana at any other time and do a bit for its future, do so, but perhaps | ||
We have tasks for all types in the working parties. | We have tasks for all types in the working parties. | ||
+ | |||
Do you feel macho with a chain saw, or are you a put-upon beast of burden? There is a massive amount of fallen timber to be cut and stacked for future use. | Do you feel macho with a chain saw, or are you a put-upon beast of burden? There is a massive amount of fallen timber to be cut and stacked for future use. | ||
- | Would you rather wander down the hill, sharp- eyed and methodical plucking small privet and 'other perennial weeds from the ground? Or wage war on the smothering Moth Vine, 'destroying it before its fruit ripens and disperses. | + | |
+ | Would you rather wander down the hill, sharp-eyed and methodical plucking small privet and other perennial weeds from the ground? Or wage war on the smothering Moth Vine, destroying it before its fruit ripens and disperses. | ||
Don't know a weed from an endangered species? Let us introduce you to your own special weed and you can seek it everywhere. | Don't know a weed from an endangered species? Let us introduce you to your own special weed and you can seek it everywhere. | ||
+ | |||
You may prefer to 'Adopt a Plot' and make its restoration your own project. Discuss this idea if it appeals. | You may prefer to 'Adopt a Plot' and make its restoration your own project. Discuss this idea if it appeals. | ||
- | Of course, considerate souls, dispensing refreshing drinks and encouraging words are also welcome | + | |
- | What to bring? Chain or bush saws; secateurs; weeding aids and gardening gloves. Rakes may be useful and there will be ' | + | Of course, considerate souls, dispensing refreshing drinks and encouraging words are also welcome. |
- | Endless love | + | |
- | George Mawer | + | What to bring? Chain or bush saws, secateurs, weeding aids and gardening gloves. Rakes may be useful and there will be ' |
- | It's very likely that you joined SBW to try a little. serious | + | |
- | There are the sore feet at the end of a long hard day. Slogging up some of those hills that seem to go on for ever. Picking your way down down down until your trembling knees feel like jelly. The heat. The cold. A bed that's never quite comfortable. Getting up in the morning and having to put on the same cold wet Socks that you took off to go to bed. The times you ask yourself incredulously "what am I doing here?" | + | |
+ | ====== | ||
+ | |||
+ | **George Mawer** | ||
+ | |||
+ | It's very likely that you joined SBW to try a little. serious | ||
+ | |||
+ | There are the sore feet at the end of a long hard day. Slogging up some of those hills that seem to go on for ever. Picking your way down down down until your trembling knees feel like jelly. The heat. The cold. A bed that's never quite comfortable. Getting up in the morning and having to put on the same cold wet socks that you took off to go to bed. The times you ask yourself incredulously "what am I doing here?" | ||
And still you love it. | And still you love it. | ||
- | MARCH. THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 3 | + | |
- | The SOuth Coast of | + | |
- | Tasmania | + | ====== |
- | Brian Holden | + | |
- | 29/02/96 | + | **Brian Holden |
+ | | ||
I was looking forward to getting back to Tassy since I rode about 500 km with 1200 cyclists (organised by Bicycle Victoria) last January. Cycling off the main roads in Tasmania nicely compliments bushwalking that charming little state. Hobart alone justifies a trip down there. | I was looking forward to getting back to Tassy since I rode about 500 km with 1200 cyclists (organised by Bicycle Victoria) last January. Cycling off the main roads in Tasmania nicely compliments bushwalking that charming little state. Hobart alone justifies a trip down there. | ||
- | - On January 5th, I and six friends got off a bus at Cockle Creek ranger station at the start of the south coast track. We had only a half day walk but packs were heavy and muscles were flabby. I was glad to get to the camp at Cape Rivulet. Early on day 2 we struck our first mud then some more and then more. If this was what was in store, it was going to be an exhausting bush walk! Camp was at Granite Beach. Much less mud on day 3 meant that I could start to enjoy myself. The camp was at Osmiridium Beach with a spectacular view of Precipitous Bluff. Occasional thoughts of Wade Butler were a bit sobering. | + | |
- | . Day 4 was THE day. This was the day our leader seemed to be having sleepless nights over. This was the day we were to go over the IronbOunds. He had been mumbling for days earlier that when we got over that hurdle, he could rest in peace. The climb of 920 metres was a bit demanding with big views of the Arthurs, Mt Ann and Federation Peak. Then, on wobbly knees, down the same number of metres to the camp on Louisa River. What our leader was worried about was a change in weather. The Antarctic might be a long way away, but we were constantly aware that it was directly over the horizon like some lurking menace. We had by now perfect | + | On January 5th, I and six friends got off a bus at Cockle Creek ranger station at the start of the south coast track. We had only a half day walk but packs were heavy and muscles were flabby. I was glad to get to the camp at Cape Rivulet. Early on day 2 we struck our first mud then some more and then more. If this was what was in store, it was going to be an exhausting bush walk! Camp was at Granite Beach. Much less mud on day 3 meant that I could start to enjoy myself. The camp was at Osmiridium Beach with a spectacular view of Precipitous Bluff. Occasional thoughts of Wade Butler were a bit sobering. |
- | Camp on day 5 was at Cox Bight. Looking back it was the most memorable part of the whole trip. We had got to camp with plenty of time to spare.. The colours of the late afternoon and evening brought back memories of the magic week I spent at Lake Pedder before the flooding. Subtle pinks and golds which could be unique to the sky in this part of the world. There was another reason to be satisfied. Tomorrow would be a straightforward walk up the valley to the hut and food drop at Melaleuca. Tomorrow night' | + | |
- | The West Macdonnells. Climb the mountains and relax in cool, secluded gorges. | + | Day 4 was THE day. This was the day our leader seemed to be having sleepless nights over. This was the day we were to go over the Ironbounds. He had been mumbling for days earlier that when we got over that hurdle, he could rest in peace. The climb of 920 metres was a bit demanding with big views of the Arthurs, Mt Ann and Federation Peak. Then, on wobbly knees, down the same number of metres to the camp on Louisa River. What our leader was worried about was a change in weather. The Antarctic might be a long way away, but we were constantly aware that it was directly over the horizon like some lurking menace. We had by now perfect |
- | The East Macdonnells. Cross pink sands and camp near a small oasis. Wander through the nearby hills. | + | |
- | Finke Gorge National Park. Stroll through one of the world' | + | Camp on day 5 was at Cox Bight. Looking back it was the most memorable part of the whole trip. We had got to camp with plenty of time to spare.. The colours of the late afternoon and evening brought back memories of the magic week I spent at Lake Pedder before the flooding. Subtle pinks and golds which could be unique to the sky in this part of the world. There was another reason to be satisfied. Tomorrow would be a straightforward walk up the valley to the hut and food drop at Melaleuca. Tomorrow night' |
- | Watarrka National Park. The Centre' | + | |
- | Our trips offer you all this and more. Ask for our brochure and trip notes. | + | Melaleuca was founded by the famous Denny King who lived there for 45 years mining tin. Only for a few of those years did he have his family there with him. To think that in the middle of the 20th century there could be but one man in such a magnificent and vast wilderness! His supplies were delivered by boat up Bathurst Harbour. |
- | $VIAlt | + | |
- | VVillis' | + | |
- | 12 Carrington Street, Millrier NT 0810 | + | |
- | Phone (089) 85.2134 Fax (089) 85 2355 | + | |
- | PAGE 4 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER MARCH 1996 | + | |
- | < Melaleuca was, founded by the famous Denny King who lived there for 45 years mining tin. Only for a few of those years did he have his family there with him. To think that in the middle of the 20th century there could be but one man in such a magnificent and vast wilderness! His supplies were delivered by boat up Bathurst Harbour. | + | |
So day 6 ended in a hut with a table and a great swim in relatively warm fresh water off a jetty. The first section of our walk was over. Now we were to face the second where tracks were " | So day 6 ended in a hut with a table and a great swim in relatively warm fresh water off a jetty. The first section of our walk was over. Now we were to face the second where tracks were " | ||
- | Our second stage was the South West Cape circuit, | + | |
- | Day 11 was the second hard day of the whole trip and had Us up on the South West Cape Range in Cold strong winds. It was bleak but dry. Just prior to the camp at Window Pane Bay there was some rock. scrambling and for a few seconds at one point it was toudi.::,and.:go if I was togo to my maker. I was glad that day was behind | + | Our second stage was the South West Cape circui. |
- | Camp on day 12 was behind Noyhener Beach | + | |
- | which was the only beach we had Struck | + | Day 11 was the second hard day of the whole trip and had us up on the South West Cape Range in cold strong winds. It was bleak but dry. Just prior to the camp at Window Pane Bay there was some rock scrambling and for a few seconds at one point it was touch and go if I was to go to my maker. I was glad that day was behind |
- | just: Ordinary | + | |
- | were no sandflies and the mozzies we came across did not bight. | + | Camp on day 12 was behind Noyhener Beach which was the only beach we had struck |
- | Our third hard day for the whole trip was the dash for Melaleuca on day 13. It was an 111/2 hour day - made harder by poor visibility which had us doing some unnecessary climbing. We were able to pick up the Port Davy. Track for the final 2 hours into Melaleuca which was a sure welcome sight. Day 14 was the day we had in reserve in case heavy rain confined us to our tents. We spent that day hanging around the settlement. Finally, we left Melaleuca airstrip on the 20th. in two small planes. It was a bumpy and nauseating flight back to Hobart which took us right over the top of Federation Peak. That night we had dinner at $65 per head - which we agreed we deserved. | + | |
- | We had not experienced rain at all. As some.. locals were claiming that that was unheard of, I probably won't go back to repeat a walk which could never be as good. 0 | + | Our third hard day for the whole trip was the dash for Melaleuca on day 13. It was an 11 1/2 hour day - made harder by poor visibility which had us doing some unnecessary climbing. We were able to pick up the Port Davy Track for the final 2 hours into Melaleuca which was a sure welcome sight. Day 14 was the day we had in reserve in case heavy rain confined us to our tents. We spent that day hanging around the settlement. Finally, we left Melaleuca airstrip on the 20th. in two small planes. It was a bumpy and nauseating flight back to Hobart which took us right over the top of Federation Peak. That night we had dinner at $65 per head - which we agreed we deserved. |
- | Is this the ' | + | |
- | Len Hainke | + | We had not experienced rain at all. As some locals were claiming that that was unheard of, I probably won't go back to repeat a walk which could never be as good. |
- | "Shot! Another sizzling volley and Ken Rosewell sidelines Lew Hoad yet again!" | + | |
+ | |||
+ | ====== | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Len Hainke** | ||
+ | |||
+ | "Shot! Another sizzling volley and Ken Rosewell sidelines Lew Hoad yet again!" | ||
The other volley is the sandshoe that was king in those times and survived until 1993, being very popular with lightweight walkers including yours truly. | The other volley is the sandshoe that was king in those times and survived until 1993, being very popular with lightweight walkers including yours truly. | ||
- | In that year the last Volley OC went 'over the baseline' | + | |
- | February 1996 it is and International volleys are still with us. They look the same but what a. difference! They are 180g (approx', | + | In that year the last Volley OC went 'over the baseline' |
- | The sole transmits every roughness to the foOt, Th6y smell revolting (a different | + | |
- | MARCH 1.996 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 5 | + | February 1996 it is and International volleys are still with us. They look the same but what a difference! They are 180g (approx', |
- | < Is This The Last Volley | + | |
+ | The sole transmits every roughness to the foot, They smell revolting (a different | ||
My (30 odd year) love affair with volleys is over. I lost the ' | My (30 odd year) love affair with volleys is over. I lost the ' | ||
- | There is old stock of inters around but you will Only find them in, small volume shoe shops mainly in small country towns or the like. In the meantime the ' | + | |
+ | There is old stock of inters around but you will only find them in small volume shoe shops mainly in small country towns or the like. In the meantime the ' | ||
hand flexing the sole at the ball of the foot section - they feel thinner - the squashy inner and the smell are a dead giveaway! If in doubt take an old Volley with you. | hand flexing the sole at the ball of the foot section - they feel thinner - the squashy inner and the smell are a dead giveaway! If in doubt take an old Volley with you. | ||
+ | |||
The future? My guess is that we will see a new up market Volley with an image and price to match. | The future? My guess is that we will see a new up market Volley with an image and price to match. | ||
- | , To mourn the passing of the famous Volley OC I can only quote the words of the 10th century Persian philosopher who did it in style when he drank and wrote the definitive last line. | + | |
+ | To mourn the passing of the famous Volley OC I can only quote the words of the 10th century Persian philosopher who did it in style when he drank and wrote the definitive last line. | ||
"Sans wine, sans song, sans walker, sans shoe sans end" .. Omar Khayyam . (with apologies) | "Sans wine, sans song, sans walker, sans shoe sans end" .. Omar Khayyam . (with apologies) | ||
- | Legal Aspects of Bushwalking | + | |
- | Leadership | + | |
+ | ====== | ||
from " | from " | ||
- | (Note: The following is a summary of the best advice available on this subject at the time of printing. The matters listed are those which leaders should take into account and on which, if necessary, they should seek' | + | |
- | increased | + | (Note: The following is a summary of the best advice available on this subject at the time of printing. The matters listed are those which leaders should take into account and on which, if necessary, they should seek professional |
- | Negligence | + | |
- | Negligence is the omission to do something which a reasonable person would do or the doing of some act which a reasonable person would not do. For an | + | Increased |
- | action to be brought in negligence, however, there must be a duty of care owed to some person accompanying the act or omission. The duty of care on the part of a leader is to take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which he/she can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure persons who are closely and directly affected by them. The standard of care is that of a reasonable and prudent leader. Whether this standard has been breached is one of fact in the circumstances. For example, all the precautions and safeguards required to be taken by persons carrying out a surgical operation would not be required by a person rendering first aid at the scene of an accident, and the precautions required by a person having the care of adults will differ from those demanded by a person having the care of children. | + | |
- | An action for damages in negligence could be brought | + | **Negligence** |
- | It should be emphasised that a leader is not the guarantor of a party' | + | Negligence is the omission to do something which a reasonable person would do or the doing of some act which a reasonable person would not do. For an action to be brought in negligence, however, there must be a duty of care owed to some person accompanying the act or omission. The duty of care on the part of a leader is to take reasonable care to avoid acts or omissions which he/she can reasonably foresee would be likely to injure persons who are closely and directly affected by them. The standard of care is that of a reasonable and prudent leader. Whether this standard has been breached is one of fact in the circumstances. For example, all the precautions and safeguards required to be taken by persons carrying out a surgical operation would not be required by a person rendering first aid at the scene of an accident, and the precautions required by a person having the care of adults will differ from those demanded by a person having the care of children. |
- | party member because of his/her experience than a party member would to a fellow party member who may have little or no experience. No amount of expertise can hide the fact that outdoor activities are potentially dangerous and accidents can happen to anyone. | + | |
- | Contract | + | An action for damages in negligence could be brought |
- | Legal liability may arise through breach of contract. An arrangement whereby a leader agrees to take a group on an outdoor activity for a price (that is, in return for payment), could be a contract. Such contract may have terms expressed or implied that the leader is competent and experienced, | + | |
+ | It should be emphasised that a leader is not the guarantor of a party' | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Contract** | ||
+ | Legal liability may arise through breach of contract. An arrangement whereby a leader agrees to take a group on an outdoor activity for a price (that is, in return for payment), could be a contract. Such contract may have terms expressed or implied that the leader is competent and experienced, | ||
Breach of any of these terms may give rise to legal action. The contractual aspect of an activity should be considered when effecting insurance cover. | Breach of any of these terms may give rise to legal action. The contractual aspect of an activity should be considered when effecting insurance cover. | ||
- | El | + | |
- | PAGE 6 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER MARCH 1.996 | + | |
- | FROM THE CLUBROOM By Jan Roberts | + | ====== |
- | Willis' | + | |
- | The original plan was for Russell to join us at the clubroom on his trip down south, and share some of the many walking tours he provides throughout the far north of Australia. As it turned out Russell was unable to join us, so Bill Holland volunteered to present Russell' | + | **By Jan Roberts** |
- | experienced many walks with Willis' | + | **Willis' |
+ | The original plan was for Russell to join us at the clubroom on his trip down south, and share some of the many walking tours he provides throughout the far north of Australia. As it turned out Russell was unable to join us, so Bill Holland volunteered to present Russell' | ||
Bill was the accomplished tour guide throughout the presentation, | Bill was the accomplished tour guide throughout the presentation, | ||
+ | |||
Russell' | Russell' | ||
- | For those interested in joining one of Willis' | + | |
+ | For those interested in joining one of Willis' | ||
SBW members benefit not only by being able to walk with very capable kindred spirits, but also to enjoy special rates as members of the club. | SBW members benefit not only by being able to walk with very capable kindred spirits, but also to enjoy special rates as members of the club. | ||
+ | |||
For more information look for the advertisement in this magazine each month. | For more information look for the advertisement in this magazine each month. | ||
+ | |||
Thanks to Bill for understudying so willingly, and to both Bill and Fran for taking the time to put together the necessary slides for what was a great nights entertainment. | Thanks to Bill for understudying so willingly, and to both Bill and Fran for taking the time to put together the necessary slides for what was a great nights entertainment. | ||
- | Walking with Athletes Foot - February 28 | + | |
- | We had a change of program in February with Lone Dean heading off overseas on a spur of the moment business trip, but in her place the people from The Athletes Foot were happy to get a leg in and come to talk to SBW. | + | **Walking with Athletes Foot - February 28** |
+ | We had a change of program in February with Ione Dean heading off overseas on a spur of the moment business trip, but in her place the people from The Athletes Foot were happy to get a leg in and come to talk to SBW. | ||
Samantha, Mat and Doreen from The Athletes Foot made a great start on the night by providing free exercise drinking bottles to the gathering of members, and we all settled back to listen and learn. | Samantha, Mat and Doreen from The Athletes Foot made a great start on the night by providing free exercise drinking bottles to the gathering of members, and we all settled back to listen and learn. | ||
+ | |||
Samantha Cleary (a foot technologist) presented to us on a wide range of issues covering all types of walking shoes, and the technology which goes into producing a staggering range of options. | Samantha Cleary (a foot technologist) presented to us on a wide range of issues covering all types of walking shoes, and the technology which goes into producing a staggering range of options. | ||
+ | |||
First we examined the amazing range of materials that have been developed to support our precious plodders over the years, and Samantha explained how our individual walking style would denote the best ' | First we examined the amazing range of materials that have been developed to support our precious plodders over the years, and Samantha explained how our individual walking style would denote the best ' | ||
+ | |||
The sports shoe industry has become very high tech. over the years, and the amount of design planning that now goes into developing walking shoes many of us found to be quite staggering. | The sports shoe industry has become very high tech. over the years, and the amount of design planning that now goes into developing walking shoes many of us found to be quite staggering. | ||
+ | |||
It was amazing too, how little things can affect comfort and support. Even the seemingly simple method of lacing up a boot can make a lot of difference in comfort and support we were told. There were lots of little hints to pick up throughout the night. | It was amazing too, how little things can affect comfort and support. Even the seemingly simple method of lacing up a boot can make a lot of difference in comfort and support we were told. There were lots of little hints to pick up throughout the night. | ||
- | The key message to all of us was to take more time to seek out expert advice when choosing walking boots exactly Allan Donnelly' | + | |
+ | The key message to all of us was to take more time to seek out expert advice when choosing walking boots..... exactly Allan Donnelly' | ||
Thanks to Samantha and the team from The Athletes Foot for providing such an informative night on very short notice. | Thanks to Samantha and the team from The Athletes Foot for providing such an informative night on very short notice. | ||
- | ioNSPORTIVA | + | |
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- | I KING | + | ====== Early Days of the Royal National Park ====== |
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- | MINIENIMIF | + | |
- | Ms' w www. | + | |
- | Your One Stop Adventure Shop | + | |
- | 10111111111.111=1 | + | |
- | 10454047 Victoria Rd, West Ryde NSW 2114. Ph: (02) 858 5844 | + | |
- | MARCH 1996 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 9 | + | |
- | Early Days of the | + | |
- | Royal National Park | + | |
- | by Errol Sheedy | + | |
Sir John Robertson, acting head of government in NSW conceived the original idea for the reserve and on 26 April 1879 the National Park was dedicated by the Lieutenant Governor. Following the 1954 visit of Queen Elizabeth II it became known as the Royal National Park. From 1879 until the NPWS took over the Park was controlled by a Board of Trustees. | Sir John Robertson, acting head of government in NSW conceived the original idea for the reserve and on 26 April 1879 the National Park was dedicated by the Lieutenant Governor. Following the 1954 visit of Queen Elizabeth II it became known as the Royal National Park. From 1879 until the NPWS took over the Park was controlled by a Board of Trustees. | ||
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In 1893 the Trusties published An Official Guide to The National Park, the text being written by Thomas Ewell. This guide contains details which may not be readily available, and may be of interest to bushwalkers. | In 1893 the Trusties published An Official Guide to The National Park, the text being written by Thomas Ewell. This guide contains details which may not be readily available, and may be of interest to bushwalkers. | ||
- | Ewell wrote, describing the original plans for the Park (which differed from current notions), " | + | |
+ | Ewell wrote, describing the original plans for the Park (which differed from current notions), " | ||
Audley was named in honour of licensed surveyor Lord Audley who as far back as 1864 made the first accurate survey of The Hacking River. | Audley was named in honour of licensed surveyor Lord Audley who as far back as 1864 made the first accurate survey of The Hacking River. | ||
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" | " | ||
- | Between Loftus Railway Station(the former Royal NP Station) and the Park boundary at Sutherland was a broad piece of ground pierced with well made roads, and used with conspicuous success on several occasions for the military manoeuvres associated with the Easter Encampment of various branches of our defence force" | + | |
- | These military encampments resulted in several masonry dams being built for a water supply. One of those, which I have seen, is on upper Temptation Creek and another mentioned in the Guide was, I believe, on Platypus Gully: "A road was cut alongthis | + | Between Loftus Railway Station (the former Royal NP Station) and the Park boundary at Sutherland was a broad piece of ground pierced with well made roads, and used with conspicuous success on several occasions for the military manoeuvres associated with the Easter Encampment of various branches of our defence force" |
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+ | These military encampments resulted in several masonry dams being built for a water supply. One of those, which I have seen, is on upper Temptation Creek and another mentioned in the Guide was, I believe, on Platypus Gully: "A road was cut along this gully to Kangaroo creek which is freely used as a bathing place by members of the defence force while under canvas." | ||
(Let us express the hope, gentle reader, that this eccentric habit did keep the ultraviolet rays off, and did not cause any accidental drowning; at the same time we pray most fervently that, in this secluded and pristine waterway, the moral purity of the defenders of our fledgling nation was not sullied by the pernicious practice of skinny-dipping!) | (Let us express the hope, gentle reader, that this eccentric habit did keep the ultraviolet rays off, and did not cause any accidental drowning; at the same time we pray most fervently that, in this secluded and pristine waterway, the moral purity of the defenders of our fledgling nation was not sullied by the pernicious practice of skinny-dipping!) | ||
- | " | + | |
+ | " | ||
" | " | ||
- | "In 1883 stone training walls were erected in the bend of the Hacking River below the dam, along and partly across the worst sand-shoal flats in the tidal river, and there action upon the stream has deepened the stretch of the main channel extending to Swallow Rock [at Gray's Point].Two other loose stone walls keep the main channel open, sufficiently deep for steam launch navigation." | + | "In 1883 stone training walls were erected in the bend of the Hacking River below the dam, along and partly across the worst sand-shoal flats in the tidal river, and there action upon the stream has deepened the stretch of the main channel extending to Swallow Rock [at Gray's Point]. Two other loose stone walls keep the main channel open, sufficiently deep for steam launch navigation." |
- | "At Audley proof of progress is visible in the clearing of five acres for a horse paddock; two acres for a fruit and vegetable garden. An island in the river is for the breeding of cygnets, a process at present attended by disaster owing to the presence of | + | |
- | eels. IP | + | "At Audley proof of progress is visible in the clearing of five acres for a horse paddock; two acres for a fruit and vegetable garden. An island in the river is for the breeding of cygnets, a process at present attended by disaster owing to the presence of eels." |
Some place names were different in 1893. What is now Bundeena was called Yarmouth, the name coming from the Yarmouth Estate, between Jibbon - Beach and Jibbon Trig to the south. Loftus was then called Loftus Junction; the name for the former R N Park Railway Station was Loftus. Engadine did not exist on the map. | Some place names were different in 1893. What is now Bundeena was called Yarmouth, the name coming from the Yarmouth Estate, between Jibbon - Beach and Jibbon Trig to the south. Loftus was then called Loftus Junction; the name for the former R N Park Railway Station was Loftus. Engadine did not exist on the map. | ||
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At that time the National Park included most of the land between the railway line and Woronora River - the present centre of Engadine being the southern, and Sutherland station the northern extremities of this north western portion of the Park. | At that time the National Park included most of the land between the railway line and Woronora River - the present centre of Engadine being the southern, and Sutherland station the northern extremities of this north western portion of the Park. | ||
- | P10 | + | |
- | PAGE 10 THE. SYDNEY BUSHWALKER MARCH 1996 | + | But while the National Park, then, was bigger in the northern part, it was smaller in the south, for the southern |
- | .1 from P9 the RNP | + | |
- | But while , | + | The Guide doesn' |
- | The Guide doesn' | + | |
- | With percipient foresight the 1893 map lists the whole of the Kumell | + | With percipient foresight the 1893 map lists the whole of the Kurnell |
- | Along the eastern side of Lady Carrington Drive there are fifteen brooks that flow into the Hacking River, most of their names being on the present tourist map.. "With an appropriateness beyond question the trustees have given to these gully streatnlets | + | |
- | The Old Illawarra Road from Hurstville crossed the Georges River (at "Old Ferry" | + | Along the eastern side of Lady Carrington Drive there are fifteen brooks that flow into the Hacking River, most of their names being on the present tourist map.. "With an appropriateness beyond question the trustees have given to these gully streamlets |
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+ | The Old Illawarra Road from Hurstville crossed the Georges River (at "Old Ferry" | ||
Ewell advises that, proceeding from Audley to Kangaroo Creek, " | Ewell advises that, proceeding from Audley to Kangaroo Creek, " | ||
- | "Along Lady Carrington Road .. two stone basins are set into the hillside .. with clear and cold spring water. Each basin bears the inscription ' | + | |
+ | "Along Lady Carrington Road ... two stone basins are set into the hillside | ||
Further along on the western side of the Hacking is an area "best known to the employees and officials of the Park as Walker' | Further along on the western side of the Hacking is an area "best known to the employees and officials of the Park as Walker' | ||
- | Bushwalkers who have enjoyed the delights Of following Nerham Spur from the Hacking River up to the Uloola Track might find interesting the comment re the upper part of the Hacking where, "the native raspberry flourishes. It's botanical appellation is Rubus rosaefolius - the Neram of the aboriginals." | + | |
- | A Visit to Garie Beach, "a most enjoyable day's outing at a secluded and lovely spot .. can be secured by parties who will communicate with the coach proprietor at Loftus Junction, or the Park authorities and order vehicles and horses to meet at Waterfall the morning train from Sydney" | + | Bushwalkers who have enjoyed the delights Of following Nerham Spur from the Hacking River up to the Uloola Track might find interesting the comment re the upper part of the Hacking where, "the native raspberry flourishes. It's botanical appellation is Rubus rosaefolius - the Neram of the aboriginals." |
- | " | + | |
- | [before 1893] of trial boring operations for coal." | + | A Visit to Garie Beach, "a most enjoyable day's outing at a secluded and lovely spot .. can be secured by parties who will communicate with the coach proprietor at Loftus Junction, or the Park authorities and order vehicles and horses to meet at Waterfall the morning train from Sydney" |
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+ | " | ||
Curracurrang, | Curracurrang, | ||
- | MARCH 1996. | + | |
- | THE SYDNEY BUSHVVALKER | + | |
- | PAGE 11 | + | ====== |
- | Are There Defences Against | + | |
- | Leeches? | + | **Peter Miller** |
- | Peter Miller | + | |
- | Down along the Clyde River in the Budawangs on Maurice | + | Down along the Clyde River in the Budawangs on Maurice |
- | r> P1 1 a from P10 | + | |
- | waiting for us; hungry, agile, resourceful and numerous.. | + | As we walked through the wet undergrowth by the river we were attacked from all sides and had to develop strategies to repel our repulsive, unwanted boarders. Having plenty of time to think about the problem as we trudged along in the rain and observing the varying degrees in which we were attacked I offer the following suggestions as a means of minimising the number of bites you are likely to get. |
- | As we. walked through the wet undergrowth by the river we were attacked, from all sides and had to develop strategies to repel , our repulsive, unwanted boarders. Having plenty of time to think about the problem as we trudged along in the rain and observing the varying degrees in which we were attacked I offer the following suggestions as a means of minimising the number of bights | + | |
- | Weir white. joggers or sandshoes to make it easier to see them getting their first lift off the ground on their way to your succulent | + | 1. Wear white joggers or sandshoes to make it easier to see them getting their first lift off the ground on their way to your succulent |
2. Wear long, close woven nylon socks instead of woollen socks as they seem to have difficulty penetrating the nylon. Panty hose can be worn for the same reason but they tend to tear and wear out. | 2. Wear long, close woven nylon socks instead of woollen socks as they seem to have difficulty penetrating the nylon. Panty hose can be worn for the same reason but they tend to tear and wear out. | ||
- | 3. Carry a can of pump action insect repellent such as Rid or Aerogard and spray your footwear, socks and legs before starting out. (Crossing rivers and creeks and rain washes the repellent | + | |
+ | 3. Carry a can of pump action insect repellent such as Rid or Aerogard and spray your footwear, socks and legs before starting out. (Crossing rivers and creeks and rain washes the repellent off and it is necessary to reapply it.) The pump action repellent is best as it can also be sprayed onto those leaches which still manage to get a hold and causes them to quickly drop off. Pump action repellents also save you from having | ||
4. Do not wear gaiters as the leeches get inside where they cannot be seen and happily fill themselves at their mobile blood bank - you. | 4. Do not wear gaiters as the leeches get inside where they cannot be seen and happily fill themselves at their mobile blood bank - you. | ||
- | 5. Keep an eye on each others feet and legs and warn when leeches get through defences. | + | |
- | 6. Sleep in a tent with a sewn floor to repel invaders (no, they don't sleep at night). | + | 5. Keep an eye on each others' |
- | 7. Strong soap, Tea tree oil, peifume | + | |
+ | 6. Sleep in a tent with a sewn floor to repel invaders (no, they don't sleep at night). If you are sleeping under a fly apply repellent | ||
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+ | 7. Strong soap, Tea tree oil, perfume | ||
I hope these observations will help You be better prepared when you are next going into known leech country. | I hope these observations will help You be better prepared when you are next going into known leech country. | ||
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(Of course, the only totally reliable defence is to stay home and mow the lawn but that is not a course of action to be recommended.) | (Of course, the only totally reliable defence is to stay home and mow the lawn but that is not a course of action to be recommended.) | ||
- | Change of date | + | |
+ | ====== | ||
My Berowra, Mount Ku-Ring Gai, Berowra day walk on Saturday, May 4 has been postponed until the following weekend, Sunday, May 11. | My Berowra, Mount Ku-Ring Gai, Berowra day walk on Saturday, May 4 has been postponed until the following weekend, Sunday, May 11. | ||
- | Peter Miller | + | |
- | Weeding at Coolana | + | **Peter Miller** |
- | Eradicating (or ' | + | |
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+ | ====== | ||
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+ | Eradicating (or ' | ||
There are a great number of volunteer bush care groups in NSW and they all seem to be doing a very worthwhile job. Ed | There are a great number of volunteer bush care groups in NSW and they all seem to be doing a very worthwhile job. Ed | ||
- | The following, submitted by Alex Colley, is an extract from a recent issue of "Hut News" the Blue Mountains Conservation Society Newsletter. | + | |
- | It can be done! | + | |
- | When you first stand in a weed infested gully and look around you, and look at the small amount of work you have achieved. that day, it seems hopeless. To clear all the weeds from this area will take forever, and with just a few people working only one morning a montkies | + | //The following, submitted by Alex Colley, is an extract from a recent issue of "Hut News" the Blue Mountains Conservation Society Newsletter.// |
- | Popes Glen looked like one of those jobs less than four years ago. There were pine trees, laurels, cotoneasters, | + | |
- | PAGE 12 | + | **It can be done!** |
- | THE SYDNEY BUSITWALKER | + | When you first stand in a weed infested gully and look around you, and look at the small amount of work you have achieved. that day, it seems hopeless. To clear all the weeds from this area will take forever, and with just a few people working only one morning a month is impossible! |
- | MARCH 1996 | + | |
- | < from Pll weed control | + | Popes Glen looked like one of those jobs less than four years ago. There were pine trees, laurels, cotoneasters, |
- | The Popes Glen Bush care Group works on the last Saturday morning of each month from 9 to I. At the end of every month heaps of ivy and honeysuckle, | + | |
+ | The Popes Glen Bush Care Group works on the last Saturday morning of each month from 9 to 1. At the end of every month heaps of ivy and honeysuckle, | ||
One week day a number of large pine trees were cut down by contractors and their wood stacked beside the road. | One week day a number of large pine trees were cut down by contractors and their wood stacked beside the road. | ||
- | What a transformation! Tall eucalypts and other native trees are recovering their strength after the long struggle to survive under the weight of the parasitic ivy. Freed from the creeping weeds, luscious tree ferns spread their fronds, and on the seemingly bare ground, ferns and tiny seedlings had been waiting for the chance to start growing. Gahnias have been planted beside the creek, and eucalypt saplings. Weed mats have been put down on the steep bank near the road and wattle planted. Steps have been built down the bank and a track' | + | |
+ | What a transformation! Tall eucalypts and other native trees are recovering their strength after the long struggle to survive under the weight of the parasitic ivy. Freed from the creeping weeds, luscious tree ferns spread their fronds, and on the seemingly bare ground, ferns and tiny seedlings had been waiting for the chance to start growing. Gahnias have been planted beside the creek, and eucalypt saplings. Weed mats have been put down on the steep bank near the road and wattle planted. Steps have been built down the bank and a track marked to the creek and eventually there will be a walking track along the creek to join up with the present Popes Glen Track so people won't have to walk along the road. | ||
Today you can stand in the gully and look around you and see the patches of good reclaimed bushland steadily increasing. In years down the track no-one will remember the weeds and people will walk through a pretty gully of tall eucalypts with understorey of tree ferns and other native shade and moisture loving plants. | Today you can stand in the gully and look around you and see the patches of good reclaimed bushland steadily increasing. In years down the track no-one will remember the weeds and people will walk through a pretty gully of tall eucalypts with understorey of tree ferns and other native shade and moisture loving plants. | ||
- | What a wonderful result a small group of volunteers can achieve! | + | |
- | The February 1996 General Meeting. | + | What a wonderful result a small group of volunteers can achieve! |
- | Barry Wallace | + | |
+ | ====== | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Barry Wallace** | ||
Around 2013, with the assembled multitude numbering some 22 or so, it all got too much for the president so she called the meeting to order. The call for apologies brought these forth for Jim Calloway, Tony Holgate and Jan Roberts. | Around 2013, with the assembled multitude numbering some 22 or so, it all got too much for the president so she called the meeting to order. The call for apologies brought these forth for Jim Calloway, Tony Holgate and Jan Roberts. | ||
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There were no new members for welcome so we went on to the minutes of the previous meeting. These were read and received with no matters arising. | There were no new members for welcome so we went on to the minutes of the previous meeting. These were read and received with no matters arising. | ||
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Correspondence was comprised, strangely enough, of various letters. There was one from Confederation regarding a proposal to set up a Blue Mountains Crossing walking route. It seems | Correspondence was comprised, strangely enough, of various letters. There was one from Confederation regarding a proposal to set up a Blue Mountains Crossing walking route. It seems | ||
Scripture Union Bushwalkers have an idea under consideration for a marked route across the mountains. Sounds vaguely familiar for some reason. We can only hope their deliberations are guided such that they follow the pattern of those before them and work out why it's not such a good idea before too much damage is done. Confederation is seeking a communications officer, human that is. We received a copy of the minutes of the Confederation' | Scripture Union Bushwalkers have an idea under consideration for a marked route across the mountains. Sounds vaguely familiar for some reason. We can only hope their deliberations are guided such that they follow the pattern of those before them and work out why it's not such a good idea before too much damage is done. Confederation is seeking a communications officer, human that is. We received a copy of the minutes of the Confederation' | ||
- | The treasurer reported in absentia that we received income of '$1,102 and spent $1,098. | + | |
- | Not only were the statistics absent from the walks report, there was a sort of apology, though whether this was for the presence in the past or absence on this occasion was unclear. The final conclusion seemed to be that the statistics are in suspense. So, if you think they were the greatest thing since sliced bread, or are unmoved by being told how many Sydharbs of drinking water your backyard pool consumes every rnilennia, tell Eddie. It's unlikely you'll make any difference, but it is good to have the people feel they have a role to play in the democratic process. | + | The treasurer reported in absentia that we received income of $1,102 and spent $1,098. |
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+ | Not only were the statistics absent from the walks report, there was a sort of apology, though whether this was for the presence in the past or absence on this occasion was unclear. The final conclusion seemed to be that the statistics are in suspense. So, if you think they were the greatest thing since sliced bread, or are unmoved by being told how many Sydharbs of drinking water your backyard pool consumes every milennia, tell Eddie. It's unlikely you'll make any difference, but it is good to have the people feel they have a role to play in the democratic process. | ||
The walks reports began at the weekend of January 13, 14 with Peter Miller leading a party of 5 on a hot, cicada saturated walk on Marramarra Creek. The walk was pleasant and relaxed but the presence of trail bikes and a utility on the tracks beyond the access barrier detracted from the pleasure somewhat. Odd how quickly and unbidden the phrase "beer swilling overweight yobbos with mobile phones" | The walks reports began at the weekend of January 13, 14 with Peter Miller leading a party of 5 on a hot, cicada saturated walk on Marramarra Creek. The walk was pleasant and relaxed but the presence of trail bikes and a utility on the tracks beyond the access barrier detracted from the pleasure somewhat. Odd how quickly and unbidden the phrase "beer swilling overweight yobbos with mobile phones" | ||
- | The weekend Of 19, 20, 21 January saw Kenn Clacher with a group of 4 in Yarramun Creek. | + | |
- | Water conditions were such that they walked most of the way. On the Saturday Rosemary MacDougal' | + | The weekend Of 19, 20, 21 January saw Kenn Clacher with a group of 4 in Yarramun Creek. Water conditions were such that they walked most of the way. On the Saturday Rosemary MacDougal' |
- | managed to cope by floating in the river most of the time. Bill Holland' | + | |
- | MARCH 1996 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 13 | + | Laurie Bore led 13 on his Sunday trip from Avalon to Dee Why in overcast conditions and Jim Callaway had 6 on his trip from Bundeena to Otford. It is alleged there exists a written report for this last trip, but no other evidence is to hand. |
- | a Laurie Bore led 13 on his Sunday trip from Avalon to DeeWhy | + | The Australia day weekend saw Spiro leading a party of 14 on his trip into the Blue Breaks in glorious Weather. This latter no doubt had something to do with the numerous snakes encountered along the way. Jim Rivers (hi Jim) had a party of 13 along on this " |
- | The Australia day weekend saw Spiro leading a party of 14 on his trip into the Blue Breaks in glorious Weather. This latter no doubt had something to do with the numerous snakes encountered along the way. Jim Rivers (hi Jim) had a party of 13 along on this. Thad to be done again" version of his trip out from Little Forest Plateau. The weather was good, the views were excellent, there were no problems, and everyone was happy; and we wouldn' | + | |
- | healed. I'm not sure we wished to know that! On the Saturday Nancye Alderson and a cast of 25 took a historical walk from Linden to Woodford and on | + | John Hogan led his Lake Macquarie water sports trip over the weekend of 3,4 February with a party. of 4. The campsite |
- | Sunday Steven Ellis' | + | walk out from Badgerys Lookout on the Saturday went, with no other details. Elwyn Morris led one of the two Sunday walks, going from Newport to Palm Beach via lunch at Avalon, afternoon tea at Whale Beach, the rocks, a few back streets and at least one concrete driveway. Conditions were sunny, with the coastal breeze holding temperatures in the comfort zone. There was no report for Wilf's stage five of the circumnavigation of Port Jackson. We place no reliance on the rumour that they are all under arrest for trespass. |
- | . John Hogan led his Lake Macquarie water sports trip over the weekend | + | |
- | walk out from Badgerys Lookout on the Saturday went, with no other details. Elwyn Morris led one of the two Sunday walks, going from Newport' | + | Geoff McIntosh and his abseiling consultant Kenn Clacher had parties of 8 and 7 on the Saturday and Sunday of their abseiling and canyoning in the vicinity of Hat Hill Creek trip over the weekend of 10, 11 February. Zol Bodlay' |
- | Geoff McIntosh and his abseiling consultant Kenn Clacher had parties of 8 and 7 on the Saturday and Sunday of their abseiling and canyoning in the vicinity of Hat Hill Creek trip over the weekend of 10, 11 February, Zol Bodlay' | + | |
- | . walk went, but there were no other details. Allan Donnelley had a party of 5 on his Bell Creek Canyon trip the same day. Conditions were cool with some drizzle, but the spectacular creek took their minds off the discomfort, almost. Eddie Giacomel led 24 on his Mountain Lagoon walk, also on the Saturday, in | + | |
- | cool conditions, with the rain holding off until a heavy downpour as they approached the cars. Greta reported that her Faulconbridge to Glenbrook Sunday | + | |
- | walk went smoothly with leeches to entertain the 11 walkers along the way. There was no report for Errol Sheedy' | + | |
The conservation report brought news of a press release from NPWS detailing the closure of the abseiling route(sic.) on the face of Mount Banks. It appears someone, probably a commercial guide organisation, | The conservation report brought news of a press release from NPWS detailing the closure of the abseiling route(sic.) on the face of Mount Banks. It appears someone, probably a commercial guide organisation, | ||
+ | |||
The minister for urban affairs and planning has responded to our letter regarding the impact of changes in the Sydney Water Corporation regulations by advising that it is not expected that they will reduce access to walking areas in the National Parks. Andy McQueen has written requesting permission to use a cartoon and photograph previously published in the 1977 annual SBW magazine. He is also seeking the identity of whoever took the photo, of a mixed party walking the Grose. Any clues out there? | The minister for urban affairs and planning has responded to our letter regarding the impact of changes in the Sydney Water Corporation regulations by advising that it is not expected that they will reduce access to walking areas in the National Parks. Andy McQueen has written requesting permission to use a cartoon and photograph previously published in the 1977 annual SBW magazine. He is also seeking the identity of whoever took the photo, of a mixed party walking the Grose. Any clues out there? | ||
- | Confederation report indicated that Rocky Creek Canyon is to be added to the Wollemi National Park. Risk taking in National Parks is technically prohibited Correspondence has been entered into. Meeting arrangements for confederation are under review. Sydney Bushwalkers will oppose the move to hold general meeting only every quarter instead of every month.. | + | |
+ | Confederation report indicated that Rocky Creek Canyon is to be added to the Wollemi National Park. Risk taking in National Parks is technically prohibited. Correspondence has been entered into. Meeting arrangements for confederation are under review. Sydney Bushwalkers will oppose the move to hold general meeting only every quarter instead of every month. | ||
General business saw passage of a motion that the club write to Pittwater Council regarding problems with access to Whale Beach from nearby walking tracks. | General business saw passage of a motion that the club write to Pittwater Council regarding problems with access to Whale Beach from nearby walking tracks. | ||
+ | |||
We are advised of the death of Ken Gould who joined the club in 1979 and was a member until illness led to his resignation last year. | We are advised of the death of Ken Gould who joined the club in 1979 and was a member until illness led to his resignation last year. | ||
- | The meeting closed at about 2134 n | + | |
- | PAGE 14 THE SYDNEY 13USHWALKER MARCH 1996 | + | The meeting closed at about 2134. |
- | LETTER TO THE EDITOR | + | |
- | WILDERNESS VISIONS | + | |
- | Maurice Smith | + | ====== |
- | 1 refer to Barry Wallace' | + | |
+ | **Maurice Smith** | ||
+ | |||
+ | I refer to Barry Wallace' | ||
Regrettably I was unable to attend the December general meeting. The members present voted to reject The Confederation of Bushwalking Club's (then) proposed nomination to NPWS of the Grose Valley as a wilderness within the meaning of the NSW Wilderness Act. | Regrettably I was unable to attend the December general meeting. The members present voted to reject The Confederation of Bushwalking Club's (then) proposed nomination to NPWS of the Grose Valley as a wilderness within the meaning of the NSW Wilderness Act. | ||
- | My reason for writing is that I strongly believe that the club's members who so voted at that meeting, have let down the club. Strong words indeed! Yet I deliberately chose to use the word "let down" because | + | |
+ | My reason for writing is that I strongly believe that the club's members who so voted at that meeting, have let down the club. Strong words indeed! Yet I deliberately chose to use the word "let down" because | ||
The rejection of the opportunity by the members present to further demonstrate the strong conservation traditions of the club does not sit well with me. | The rejection of the opportunity by the members present to further demonstrate the strong conservation traditions of the club does not sit well with me. | ||
- | Grose Wilderness nomination | + | |
- | The Grose Wilderness nomination was lodged with NPWS in late. January 1996. It required many months of effort to gather the necessary data, do the field research and to write the proposal. It cannot be said to be a quick casual | + | **Grose Wilderness nomination** |
- | The Grose 'Wilderness area nominated for wilderness assessment covers about 55,000 hectares, 95% of which is presently in the Blue Mountains National Park. The eastern most edge of the nominated area is only 55 kilometres from the Sydney GPO! | + | The Grose Wilderness nomination was lodged with NPWS in late January 1996. It required many months of effort to gather the necessary data, do the field research and to write the proposal. It cannot be said to be a quick casual |
- | The " | + | |
- | Forest, of such renown, is included in the nominated area. | + | The Grose Wilderness area nominated for wilderness assessment covers about 55,000 hectares, 95% of which is presently in the Blue Mountains National Park. The eastern most edge of the nominated area is only 55 kilometres from the Sydney GPO! |
- | What is a Wilderness? | + | |
- | Section 6 of the NSW Wilderness Act requires that "an area of land shall not be identified as wilderness ... unless ... (a) the area is, together with its plant and animal | + | The " |
- | Consequences of being declared as a Wilderness | + | |
+ | **What is a Wilderness?** | ||
+ | Section 6 of the NSW Wilderness Act requires that "an area of land shall not be identified as wilderness ... unless ... (a) the area is, together with its plant and animal | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Consequences of being declared as a Wilderness** | ||
Following the lodgement of the nomination the NPWS now has two years in which to assess and decide whether the nominated area does meet the Wilderness Act's definition of wilderness. Assume, for the moment, that the nominated area is accepted as a " | Following the lodgement of the nomination the NPWS now has two years in which to assess and decide whether the nominated area does meet the Wilderness Act's definition of wilderness. Assume, for the moment, that the nominated area is accepted as a " | ||
- | Our club's conservation heritage | + | |
+ | **Our club's conservation heritage** | ||
Sydney Bush Walkers have much to be proud of in its nearly 70 years of history in many difficult Conservation activities. For example, SBW members in the 1930's played an absolutely crucial and pivotal role in saving the Blue Gum Forest that is included in the nominated area. | Sydney Bush Walkers have much to be proud of in its nearly 70 years of history in many difficult Conservation activities. For example, SBW members in the 1930's played an absolutely crucial and pivotal role in saving the Blue Gum Forest that is included in the nominated area. | ||
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What immense strategic vision and courage those members showed in the days when the conservation movement, that we now take for granted, hardly existed. The strategic vision demonstrated by our early members is praised by any bushwalker or tourist who enjoys the splendour of the Blue Gum Forest. In the depths of the 1930's Great Depression those far-sighted members took on a great financial burden to save the Blue Gum Forest. Their collective courage is something that we can only admire and be grateful for today. | What immense strategic vision and courage those members showed in the days when the conservation movement, that we now take for granted, hardly existed. The strategic vision demonstrated by our early members is praised by any bushwalker or tourist who enjoys the splendour of the Blue Gum Forest. In the depths of the 1930's Great Depression those far-sighted members took on a great financial burden to save the Blue Gum Forest. Their collective courage is something that we can only admire and be grateful for today. | ||
- | Bushwalkers more recently demonstrated the strategic vision, intellectual rigour and political | + | |
- | MARCH 1996 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 15 | + | Bushwalkers more recently demonstrated the strategic vision, intellectual rigour and political courage necessary for the development and passing of the NSW Wilderness Act and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Act. |
- | a courage necessary for the development and passing of the NSW Wilderness Act and the NSW National Parks' | + | |
- | The letter of rejection | + | **The letter of rejection** |
- | Sydney Bush Walkers wrote a letter to Confederation, | + | Sydney Bush Walkers wrote a letter to Confederation, |
- | Degraded Area | + | |
+ | **Degraded Area** | ||
As indicated earlier in this letter, for the nominated area to be declared a wilderness it must meet the definition of wilderness. | As indicated earlier in this letter, for the nominated area to be declared a wilderness it must meet the definition of wilderness. | ||
- | If an area is degraded that does not prevent | + | |
- | To reject the entire proposal because of some vague notion of " | + | If an area is degraded that does not prevent |
- | It seems that we have taken an "all or nothing" | + | |
- | Serious political ramifications | + | To reject the entire proposal because of some vague notion of " |
- | Similarly, to reject the proposal because of " | + | |
+ | It seems that we have taken an "all or nothing" | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Serious political ramifications** | ||
+ | Similarly, to reject the proposal because of " | ||
To shy away from another political fight to protect a wilderness area is lacking the political courage so capably demonstrated by our early club members. | To shy away from another political fight to protect a wilderness area is lacking the political courage so capably demonstrated by our early club members. | ||
- | What was the real reason for rejection? | + | |
+ | **What was the real reason for rejection?** | ||
Why did the club reject the proposed wilderness nomination? Was it because of the several roads / fire trails traditionally used by bush walkers for access to the Grose Valley might be blocked off to vehicles? | Why did the club reject the proposed wilderness nomination? Was it because of the several roads / fire trails traditionally used by bush walkers for access to the Grose Valley might be blocked off to vehicles? | ||
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As part of the wilderness assessment process NPWS will examine current uses of access roads. If the NPWS assessment is favourable, they then determine whether the access roads proposed be closed in the Wilderness need to be closed to bushwalkers (and tourists). Not to propose the closures would open a justifiable criticism we want everything and are not prepared to give anything in return. | As part of the wilderness assessment process NPWS will examine current uses of access roads. If the NPWS assessment is favourable, they then determine whether the access roads proposed be closed in the Wilderness need to be closed to bushwalkers (and tourists). Not to propose the closures would open a justifiable criticism we want everything and are not prepared to give anything in return. | ||
- | The real message that is received | + | |
- | Sydney Bush Walkers is the oldest bush walking club in NSW and is one of the oldest bushwalking clubs in Australia. SBW should, by supporting this proposal, continue to do everything possible to ensure that the superb | + | **The real message that is received** |
+ | Sydney Bush Walkers is the oldest bush walking club in NSW and is one of the oldest bushwalking clubs in Australia. SBW should, by supporting this proposal, continue to do everything possible to ensure that the superb | ||
The potential gain to current and future generations of bushwalkers that will result from a successful nomination of the area is, I believe, a classic demonstration of the values exhibited by our early members. I believe that our decision to reject the proposal should be deplored by club members. | The potential gain to current and future generations of bushwalkers that will result from a successful nomination of the area is, I believe, a classic demonstration of the values exhibited by our early members. I believe that our decision to reject the proposal should be deplored by club members. | ||
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The people who want to exploit our national parks for commercial advantage have not grown complacent. They' | The people who want to exploit our national parks for commercial advantage have not grown complacent. They' | ||
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Where is the strategic vision now? Where is the intellectual rigour now? Where is the political courage now? Our early club members showed us how! | Where is the strategic vision now? Where is the intellectual rigour now? Where is the political courage now? Our early club members showed us how! | ||
- | Let us rethink this rejected proposal. It isn't too late to demonstrate our strategic vision; intellectual rigour, political courage and conservation heritage by endorsing Confederation' | + | |
+ | Let us rethink this rejected proposal. It isn't too late to demonstrate our strategic vision, intellectual rigour, political courage and conservation heritage by endorsing Confederation' | ||
Good walking, | Good walking, | ||
- | Maurice Smith | + | **Maurice Smith** |
- | [1] Sydney Bush Walkers letter of 16 November 1995, to John lvlacris | + | |
- | PAGE 16 THE SYDNEY RUSHWALKER MARCH 1996 | + | [1] Sydney Bush Walkers letter of 16 November 1995, to John Macris |
- | The Cross Cut Saw. | + | |
- | Pat Harrison | + | |
- | . (Reprinted from May 1969 Sydney Bushwalker.) | + | |
+ | ====== | ||
+ | |||
+ | **Pat Harrison** | ||
+ | (Reprinted from May 1969 Sydney Bushwalker) | ||
" | " | ||
Of which my fancy cherished, | Of which my fancy cherished, | ||
So faithfully, a waking dream?" | So faithfully, a waking dream?" | ||
- | The poet Wordsworth wrote these lines after he had first:seen Yarrow. in Scotland; but there had been other times when he had failed to get to that beautiful place, and on one of these occasions he wrote the following lines:- | + | |
- | "If care with freezing years should come, And, | + | The poet Wordsworth wrote these lines after he had first seen Yarrow in Scotland; but there had been other times when he had failed to get to that beautiful place, and on one of these occasions he wrote the following lines:- |
+ | "If care with freezing years should come, | ||
+ | And, | ||
Should we be loath to stir from home, | Should we be loath to stir from home, | ||
And yet be melancholy; | And yet be melancholy; | ||
- | | + | |
- | That earth has something yet to show, The bonny holms of Yarrow." | + | 'Twill soothe us in our sorrow, |
- | The Cross cut Saw is one of a couple of places that have stood in the same relation to me. Once upon a timer invited a chap to go there on a walking tour but he mucked the proposal up before it got started and I abandoned it However, the Sydney Bushwalkers are a different proposition and can be relied on to stick fast to a plan; consequently seven of us (Ray Hookway, | + | That earth has something yet to show, |
- | After a couple of hours in our bags we drove as far as Table Top near Albury where we pulled off the road and 'boiled the billies for breakfast. The morningwas | + | The bonny holms of Yarrow." |
- | The next landfalls were to be Banana | + | |
- | We spent two hours in the sun at Mirimbah, | + | The Cross cut Saw is one of a couple of places that have stood in the same relation to me. Once upon a time I invited a chap to go there on a walking tour but he mucked the proposal up before it got started and I abandoned it. However, the Sydney Bushwalkers are a different proposition and can be relied on to stick fast to a plan; consequently seven of us (Ray Hookway, |
- | We had driven about 525 miles since we left Sydney, all of it on very good roads. The 25 miles from Mirimbah to the Howqua were dirt and were up and over a mountain range, but it is as good a road as you would wish for, being wider and with far better grades (for example) than the road in and out of Jenolan Caves. There are Bushfire dugouts at the Howqua Gap (or Wooly Butt saddle as it is called on the map), which is on the Divide between the Delatite and Howqua river, and there are also dugouts 19 miles from Nfirimbah | + | |
- | MARCH 1996 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 17 | + | After a couple of hours in our bags we drove as far as Table Top near Albury where we pulled off the road and boiled the billies for breakfast. The morning was clear and sunny, everyone was in good spirits, and other car loads of bushwalkers tooted us as they headed north. There was also a gorging of fruit and tomatoes - far better for these things to be inside your tummy than inside the Fruit Inspector' |
- | | + | |
- | | + | The next landfalls were to be Benalla |
- | On the morrow we left maps and a note with | + | |
- | detailed descriptions of our route,then we set off with | + | We spent two hours in the sun at Mirimbah, having lunch and waiting for Bill, and then learnt from some campers that a white Toyota station waggon with a NSW plate had been there hours ago and had asked directions to "The Springs" |
- | - Barry up Howitt Spur on a very good track from which gradually unfolded | + | |
- | a jagged and spectacular series of bare alpine peaks about 5 miles long which connects Mt Speculation with the Mt Hewitt | + | We had driven about 525 miles since we left Sydney, all of it on very good roads. The 25 miles from Mirimbah to the Howqua were dirt and were up and over a mountain range, but it is as good a road as you would wish for, being wider and with far better grades (for example) than the road in and out of Jenolan Caves. There are Bushfire dugouts at the Howqua Gap (or Wooly Butt saddle as it is called on the map), which is on the Divide between the Delatite and Howqua river, and there are also dugouts 19 miles from Mirimbah |
- | A few hundred feet below the summit the Snow Gums ceased and the track zig-zagged up the rocks past odd bushes of flowering Boronia and finally emerged on the grassyplateau | + | |
- | The view from the trig was panoramic - Buller, Stirling, Speculation, | + | On the morrow we left maps and a note with detailed descriptions of our route,then we set off with |
+ | Barry up Howitt Spur on a very good track from which gradually unfolded | ||
+ | |||
+ | A few hundred feet below the summit the Snow Gums ceased and the track zig-zagged up the rocks past odd bushes of flowering Boronia and finally emerged on the grassy plateau | ||
+ | |||
+ | The view from the trig was panoramic - Buller, Stirling, Speculation, | ||
We followed the cairns and snow poles across the flowery top of Hewitt through masses of golden Everlastings splashed with purple daisies,to the edge of the plateau overlooking the Terrible Hollow. On the far side of the hollow The Razor and The Viking stood up in the tilted pose characteristic of the area. | We followed the cairns and snow poles across the flowery top of Hewitt through masses of golden Everlastings splashed with purple daisies,to the edge of the plateau overlooking the Terrible Hollow. On the far side of the hollow The Razor and The Viking stood up in the tilted pose characteristic of the area. | ||
- | While Frank was- busy with his camera the rest of us lolled about having an early, lunch and finally at | + | |
- | 1 lam set out for the traverse of the Croscut | + | While Frank was busy with his camera the rest of us lolled about having an early, lunch and finally at |
+ | 11am set out for the traverse of the Crosscut | ||
Having been consigned to this well known locality on numerous occasions I was keen to see it. We arrived there about 90 minutes later to find it occupied by members of the Melbourne Women' | Having been consigned to this well known locality on numerous occasions I was keen to see it. We arrived there about 90 minutes later to find it occupied by members of the Melbourne Women' | ||
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On the way out near the turn-off to Stanley' | On the way out near the turn-off to Stanley' | ||
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On the way back along the narrow crest there was a most effective scene with The Terrible Hollow in bright sunshine while the Howqua side was gloomy with cloud looming up from Buller. For half an hour it seemed as if it would snow but it quickly passed away and bright sunshine returned. | On the way back along the narrow crest there was a most effective scene with The Terrible Hollow in bright sunshine while the Howqua side was gloomy with cloud looming up from Buller. For half an hour it seemed as if it would snow but it quickly passed away and bright sunshine returned. | ||
- | It was about 3.30pm when we got back to Hewitt, and whom do you think we saw emerging from that horrible-looking gully between | + | |
+ | It was about 3.30pm when we got back to Howitt, and whom do you think we saw emerging from that horrible-looking gully between | ||
Ross was still shaking from an encounter with a snake met on a narrow ledge at face height. | Ross was still shaking from an encounter with a snake met on a narrow ledge at face height. | ||
- | Anyway we were all together in a good campsite at McAlister Springs, which is about 1%. miles east of Howitt and connected to it by a narrow saddle. A spring gushes out of the mountainside here and forms the beginning of the McAlister River. The water must be boiled because of the chance of becoming infected with parasitic worms which t> | + | |
- | PAGE 18 'THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER MARCH 1996 | + | Anyway we were all together in a good campsite at McAlister Springs, which is about 1 1/2. miles east of Howitt and connected to it by a narrow saddle. A spring gushes out of the mountainside here and forms the beginning of the McAlister River. The water must be boiled because of the chance of becoming infected with parasitic worms which emanate from the cattle which are brought up to the high plains in summer. To a New South Welshman, used to pure water and unchurned |
- | 4 FROM P15 the cross cut saw | + | |
- | emanate from the cattle which are brought up to the high plains in summer. To a New South Welshman, used to pure water and unchumed | + | Sunday' |
- | . Sunday' | + | |
- | From Magdala we dropped down about 800 feet on a narrow ridge and up about 600 feet to the jeep _track | + | From Magdala we dropped down about 800 feet on a narrow ridge and up about 600 feet to the jeep track near No.1 Divide, where we left the Great Dividing Range and walked south-westward to a good hut under Mt Lovick where we used the tank water to make fizz. A nearby dam was filled with a murky liquid. |
- | A steep climb over Mt Lovick and we were at The Bluff Hut at 4pm (another good one with bunks and a tank and another murky dam). - | + | |
- | On the last morning we set out packless for The Bluff at 7.30am, that is all except Frank who was dawdling along in his own inimitable way, compiling a pictorial record of odd botanical and zoological specimens. At the Bluff we had completed a most magnificent ridge walk since reaching Howitt, even better than The Razorback between Feathertop and Hotharrt, but from the Bluff we could see other interesting routes such as the one along the Great Divide from No.1 Divide over Mt Clear, The Nobs and Mt McDonald, the last looking most enticing with its barish slopes and its three peaks somewhat reminiscent of Mt Cloudmaker in the Gangerangs. Further away to the east across the Mcalister River the skyline was dominated by Mt Reynard athwart the Snowy Plains. | + | A steep climb over Mt Lovick and we were at The Bluff Hut at 4pm (another good one with bunks and a tank and another murky dam). |
+ | |||
+ | On the last morning we set out packless for The Bluff at 7.30am, that is all except Frank who was dawdling along in his own inimitable way, compiling a pictorial record of odd botanical and zoological specimens. At the Bluff we had completed a most magnificent ridge walk since reaching Howitt, even better than The Razorback between Feathertop and Hotham, but from the Bluff we could see other interesting routes such as the one along the Great Divide from No.1 Divide over Mt Clear, The Nobs and Mt McDonald, the last looking most enticing with its barish slopes and its three peaks somewhat reminiscent of Mt Cloudmaker in the Gangerangs. Further away to the east across the Mcalister River the skyline was dominated by Mt Reynard athwart the Snowy Plains. | ||
Most of the rock in the area we traversed is sandstone with a decided tilt, said to have been caused by the movement of the granite mass of Mt Buffalo. | Most of the rock in the area we traversed is sandstone with a decided tilt, said to have been caused by the movement of the granite mass of Mt Buffalo. | ||
- | Back to Bluff Hut by 10am to spend an hour lying in the sun before Frank sauntered back, then off to the jeep track down the 16 mile spur which for steepnesswould | + | |
- | your toes as a couple of our party did. The track goes down for a couple of thousand feet without any levelling. It is almost as steep as the Gasper Buttress on Mt knolan, with a road thrown in for good measure. There were half a dozen cows ahead of us for some of the way and everyone was amazed at the strength of the cows' legs in relation to their small size and the great weight they carry. Bushwalkers, | + | Back to Bluff Hut by 10am to spend an hour lying in the sun before Frank sauntered back, then off to the jeep track down the 16 mile spur which for steepness would be hard to beat. Lace your footwear up tightly coming down here otherwise you will wear the ends off your toes as a couple of our party did. The track goes down for a couple of thousand feet without any levelling. It is almost as steep as the Gasper Buttress on Mt Jennolan, with a road thrown in for good measure. There were half a dozen cows ahead of us for some of the way and everyone was amazed at the strength of the cows' legs in relation to their small size and the great weight they carry. Bushwalkers, |
The 16 mile creek near its junction with the Howqua runs over smooth granite bars and you should have seen the fisherman' | The 16 mile creek near its junction with the Howqua runs over smooth granite bars and you should have seen the fisherman' | ||
- | It was a beautiful afternoon at Binclaree, just as all of the other days had been, and four of us set out at once without packs on the 31/2. mile bash to bring the cars back from the foot of the Howitt Spur. Back at Bindaree for a wash in the icy Howqua then Bill's Toyota set out for home and we, followed soon after. Bill's car blew a head gasket near Holbrook and he finally got home at 7pm next day. | + | |
+ | It was a beautiful afternoon at Bindaree, just as all of the other days had been, and four of us set out at once without packs on the 3 1/2 mile bash to bring the cars back from the foot of the Howitt Spur. Back at Bindaree for a wash in the icy Howqua then Bill's Toyota set out for home and we followed soon after. Bill's car blew a head gasket near Holbrook and he finally got home at 7pm next day. | ||
Our car group only intended to get out of the Howqua this night and we therefore camped on the Delatite at Mirimbah where the trees were undergoing a most glorious colour change. | Our car group only intended to get out of the Howqua this night and we therefore camped on the Delatite at Mirimbah where the trees were undergoing a most glorious colour change. | ||
- | After sleeping like a top all other nights I lay awake all this night because of the noisy river and the whine of the timber jinkers which were apparently | + | |
- | We had a scenic drive home via Mansfield, Power' | + | After sleeping like a top all other nights I lay awake all this night because of the noisy river and the whine of the timber jinkers which were apparently |
+ | |||
+ | We had a scenic drive home via Mansfield, Power' | ||
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