NOVEMBER 2002 Amongst the vast array of day packs that decorate the shelves of outdoor shops, it's difficult to pickisomething with the right features, what with 101 different types of nylon, all sorts
of different canvases, airflow systems, expanding pockets and neon colours.
So it's nice to know that if your the type of person that wants simple robust functionality that reflects years of local bushwalking experience with solid locally made material . JIE eli then the BLUE MOUNTAINS TRIASSIC could Lg Rien
He your best companion for many years to come.
Pack Review
by David Noble
& Australian 1207 canvas
its good to see a pack made in the Blue Mountains for use in the Blue Mountains. The Triassic features two Shoulder strap sizes so that the pack can be Properly hip loaded, sitting down comfortably in the lumbar region of the back. This is sometimes difficult especially if you are a taller person. The harness system also includas a thick waist belt and chest strap enabling a fight fit which is great when climbing over rocks.
The volume Is large enough to allow a 50m rope and wetsuit to easily fit in and the top is made larger so that your stuff slides in and out with ease. The pack has a large front pocket for those essential items such as a toreh, and a top pocket for the map and camera. The pack is large enough to be used as a weekend pack when no ropes etc. are nesded. This can keep the bulk down and stop you from packing too much on those weekend bushwalks.
The Triassic is mace from durable 120z canvas which can withstand the abuse given to it in canyons and when walking through scrub. All the seams are double stitched and sealed to prevent failure. It is also very water proof, on a recent trip down Hole in The Wall canyon, no water entered the main compartment despite a number ofjlengthy swims.
The pack is bush green in colour making the walker almost invisible in the bush. This is handy for sneaking up on wildlife with a camera or just blending in to the wilderness as you walk along. Good for those who like to keep the visual impact minimal too.
A quality Blue Mountains pack for our tough conditions, the Triassic carries a lifetime guarantee on workmanship and materials.
Ovarall an excellent pack for either short or tall with the
2 shoulder strap options. And great for canyons or short weekend trips.
NB: David Noble {s a kean canyoner and bushwalker. He Is also the discoverer of the rare
Wollem! Pine (WOLLEMIA NOBILIS) found in 1994. ~
& Made in Katoomba the old traditional way
4 40 litre capacity
& Proper hip loading with 2 shoulder strap sizes for walking comfort
& Wide throat for easy loading and unloading
4 Buckle up front pocket with internal divider
& Top lid pocket ,
& Extendabie lid for overloading
& Padded hip belt with 38mm buckle
& Hip belt retainer for city use (conveniently holds the hip belt back and out of the way
& Padded back (removable)
4 Thumb loops on shoulder straps for more comfortable walking
& Internal compression strap for holding down your canyon rope
4 Side compression straps for minimising volume
4 Storm throat to keep out the rain
4 Hard wearing Cordura base
& Price $159.00
ONLY AVAILABLE AT
ww tle Meee 2
1045 VICTORIA RD, WEST RYDE Ph 9858 5844 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER is the monthly bulletin of matters of interest to members of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565. Editor: Bill Holland Production Manager: Frances Holland Printers: Kenn Clacher, Barrie Murdoch, Tom Wenman Don Brooks Margaret Niven
The Sydney Bush Walkers This year we celebrate our 75 anniversary. The Club's main activity is bushwalking, but it has grown to include other activities such as li- loing, cycling and social events. Our meetings are held every third Wednesday evening at 8 pm at Kirnbilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, Kirmibilli (near Milsons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members are welcome. General Enquiries: Phone 0500 500 729
SBW Website www.sbw.org.au Office Bearers
President: Rosemary MacDougal
Vice-President: Wilf Hilder
Public Officer: Maurice Smith
Treasurer: Maurice Smith
Secretary: Leigh Mc Clintock
Walks Secretary: Carol Lubbers
Social Secretary Vicki Garamy
Membership Secretary Pam Mornison
New Members Secretary: Heike Krausse Conservation Secretary: David Trinder
Magazine Editor: Bill Holland Committee Member: Eddy Giacomel
Barry Wallace
Delegates to Confederation:
Jim Callaway – vacant –
Highlights From The Social Programme Wed 27“ Nov: Kimberley Photo Night
Wed 18Dec: SBW Christmas Party
Wed 8” Jan: Club Picnic - Balmoral Beach Wed 15' Jan: Walks Planning Night
NOVEMBER 2002 Issue No. 816
INDEX: 1. Index and Notices 2. Vale Deirdre Kidd 2. Editor's Note 3, Presidents Report Rosemary MacDougal Treasurers Report Maurice Smith 4. 75 Anniversary Celebrations Patrick James 5. Ltter'to the Editor 6, Honorary Membership 7. Coolana Report 8, Conservation Report David Trinder 10. The General Meeting Barry Wallace
ll. Koala Sightings 12. Fire Bans and Park Closures 13. What To Do In A Bushfire 13. Book Review
14. On the Milford Track Almis Simanankevis 15, 2002 Year of The Outback
Owen Marks
Paul McCann 16-18. The Walks Pages 19. New Members Page 20. Social Notes ADVERTISERS:
Alpsport Front cover Eastwood Camping 9. . Paddy Pallin Back cover Wilderness Transit 5. Willis's Walkabouts 7.
f
The Sydney Bushwalker: First Edition July 1931 Official publication of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc.
yoy 2
Sydney Bushwaiker
November 2002 we?
- Page2
Vale Deidre Kidd
Deirdre joined: SBW in December? 1983 and persuaded Ray, whom she married 16 years ago, to join also. In their early walking days with the Club she especially enjoyed an extended walk to the Cobberas. One of their favourite areas was Blackheath with the very scenic Neates Glen, Grand Canyon, Evans Lookout walk being a regular trip.
Onginally trained as a classical ballet dancer, Deirdre always maintained her interest in dance and delighted Club members with her folk dances at the annual concerts. She was an accomplished artist mm both painting and sculpture and all her bush photography shows her creative ability to see a flower or a scene ina unique way through her artists eyes.
Dewdre loved the outdoors, whether pottering in her bushland garden or skiing at Guthega and Charlottes Pass. She shared her passion for skiing, both cross-country and down- hill with many SBW friends- and so many of us were the recipients of her generosity and birthday cakes at Turnak in Guthega. Deirdre was also passionate about social justice and the environment and often had her stirring letters on these issuespublished in the Sydney Morning Herald.
In inviting us to celebrate Deirdres life, after she lost her battle with cancer on 5 November, Ray said: there is sadness here today because Deirdre will not be able to share a bit more of the future with all her friends. I know all of us who have shared the great outdoors with Deirdre will miss her enthusiastic nature and warm smiles.
Maureen Carter
Contact The Committee:
Members are welcome to conitact the following officers with questions on Club management and other matters.
President: Rosemary MacDougal
9428 5668 (h) rmacdaugal@bigpond.com Treasurer: Maurice Smith
9878 2958 (h) or mauricethewalker@ihug.com.au Members Secretary: Pam Morrison
0418 463 923 or at pamm@unsw.edu.au (particularly if you have not received your magazine or walks program):
Vice President: Wilf Hilder, 9587 8912
New Members Secretary: Heike Krausse 0412 808 248 for enquiries about joining and prospective membership enquiries
Editors Note: ~
October! What a hectic month with the 75“ Anniversary celebrations, meeting old friends and reliving old memories. Now its time to take a deep breath and look ahead, rather than look back.
The immediate future is of some concem. The drought has entered a severe phase with nearly all of our walking areas under park closure and fire bans. Waterways have dried up adding to the pressures of conducting weekend and extended walks.
So our walking opportunities in national parks will be limited this summer. What are the alternatives?
The Walks Programme accompanying this issue of the magazine shows several beach-side day walks and Snowy Mountains extended walks. These are unlikely to be so severely affected by the drought conditions. As well, Coolana always beckons as an opportunity for easy walking, cliff-side and rain forest explorations or just relaxing enjoyment.
This months magazine is slightly larger than normal reflecting the number of topical contributions received including coverage of park closures and fire bans. All leaders and walk participants should keep themselves informed of current position and comply with the restrictions outlined in these articles as hot and dry weather conditions may require plans to be altered at short notice.
We have the regular Committee reports and no doubt these will be expanded in future now that general meetings have been abandoned. Other items include members reporting or. extended walks and a summary of the successful 75” celebrations.
And, of course I mustnt forget, a tribute to the three members who were presented with Honorary Membership at the 75 anniversary dinner.
Bill Holland
Contact The Editor: ,
Copy for publishing in the SBW magazine should
be received by the Editor by the end of the first
week of each month. Letters stating your
viewpoint on matters of interest are most welcome. Please send your submission in by mail
_ (preferably typed), on floppy disc, by fax or by
email addressed to The Editor
Telephone: 9484 6636
Email: billholi@hotkey.net.au Fax: 9980 5476 (phone 9484 6636 first Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002 Page 3
Presidents Report
The 75“ celebrations were well attended by old: and new members. About 60 people were at the Coolana weekend with 20 or so being able to stay on for the Monday to celebrate the actual birthday. At the dinner there were many members from yesteryear to whom | expressed the clubs gratitude for their efforts in conservation without which we would not have our national parks. They have created a tradition of solid walking, great socialising and sound leadership and armed with that we can confidently look forward to the 75 years and beyond.
Many thanks to Patrick James, Vickie Garamy and Sophie Watson who were the members of the organising committee and to the many others who worked tirelessly to ensure that all the events went smoothly.
An issue, which has always been around, is our duty of care to be observed in club activities. It has gained prominence recently but it is pleasing to see that some recent court decisions are applying the principle that people need to be responsible for themselves. This augurs well for voluntary groups but does mean that we can cease to be aware of the need for ourselves to act responsibly.
The approval of the October General Meeting to remove the obligation to have monthly meetings reflects the mood of a preponderance of members. Don Brooks, who chaired the Review Committee, which had analysed members submissions, and the Questionnaire, alluded to this. One speaker against the motion was concerned. that without such meetings members may not have the opportunity to interact and exchange information. Another speaker against the motion was concemed that it would change the way the club was managed.
The committee is alert to the need to maintain a two-way communication. It is important to note that a general meeting can be called by giving notice in the magazine for a meeting in the following month. Therefore I encourage any member who is concerned about any matter to contact a committee member so that the issue can be aired and if necessary a meeting can be called (see committee contact details on Page 2)
To ensure that members are kept abreast of what is happening, the committee will endeavour to include in the monthly magazine a report from the President as to the committees activities. The walks secretary will provide the walks reports to Barry Wallace who will prepare
a short article similar to that presently done by him. Confederation delegates will keep us to date and the Treasurer will continue producing financial information.
National Park, State Forest closures and fire bans remain a significant concern and will curtail our activities for the time being. Apart from the need to observe these lawful directives there are practical reasons for doing so. An example is that if a decision is made to commence hazard reduction activities the authorities need to know that the particular area is clear of people.
Although we have published the summer walks program it is contingent upon the relevant area being open. Up to date information about Park closures and fire bans can be obtained by phoning 1300 361 967 or the web page at www.npws.gov.au/news/firenews
Rosemary MacDougal Treasurers Report - October Bank Account Movement: Opening Balance - 1* October $8,519 Income received: Subscriptions 355 Interest 99 75” Anniversary dinner 3,000 Total Income $3,454 Expenses paid: Magazine covers 731 Magazine postage etc 438 Kirribilli RSL 5,950 Other 1,120 Total Payments 7,239 Closing Balance - 31* August $4,734
During October we received $3,454 into the bank account of which $355 was for subscriptions from members and new members, $99 in interest on investments and $3,000 for the 75“ anniversary dinner held in late October.
In the month we drew cheques to the value of $7,239, The big item of expense was $5,950 to Kirribilli RSL club for the anniversary dinner, $438 to Bill Holland for the reimbursement of expenses, $731] to Pennant Hill Printing for the supply of magazine covers and $120 to members as refunds for non-attendance for the anniversary dinner. We ended October with $4,734 in the bank.
The final number for the anniversary dinner is that we had 167 members who attended. Even though I am Treasurer and had a great night at the dinner I was also pleased to note that a small surplus was achieved on the anniversary dinner. Maurice Smith | Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002
Page 4 |
75” Anniversary Celebrations.
One wonders if the founding members of SBW in 1927 though that their new club would last, or if it did last, for how long. We have now survived 75 years; will we survive another 75 years? Those of us who are now 20 years old, when you are 95 years old you'll know the answer! So much for deep and meaningful pondering!
The celebrations are over and done with, we can put our glad rags back into storage and wander around in more comfortable clothes.
75 Anniversary Reunion at Coolana, Kangaroo Valley, on the weekend 194/208 October was reasonably well attended with about 60 people (+ children) for the Saturday night, some more coming on the Sunday and a fair number staying over to the Monday to celebrate the actual SBW birthday.
Theicampfire was significant for two reasons. Firstly it was–the first reunion that I can remember that a total fire ban was in force. So
the, camp fire was a non-camp fire. Fortunately.
there was a full moon (an example of good planning from 1927) so with our usual torches there was light enough. Secondly the entertainment surpassed the usual high standard of excellence that we have come to expect. This was mainly due to the efforts of that shy, mild mannered recorder in song and verse, Don Matthews. Don really deserves to stand up and take a bow, but he prefers to hide with his light under a bushel writing song and verse in the half dark Thank you Don. Thank you also to all the other thespians and the cross-eyed bull.
Fortunately the total fire ban was lifted at midnight so on Sunday everything was nearly normal. Swimming, canoeing, bike riding and some low key track repair work kept most people happy until the happy hour(s).
75th Anniversary Club Room Activity was held on Wednesday 23rd October. This was an opportunity to meet and greet and mingle, re-walk those walks of …, find out what happened to whats-his-name/whats-her-name. The focal point of the evening was the photo display assembled by our shy, mild mannered recorder::+ The display, a montage of photos and text on panels,spanned the history of the Club right up to the 75th Reunion the weekend before. Refreshments Wre served. People brought their photos along to share with others. One photo oti display of 3'sets of bare, female buttocks was df“ interest. I could identify only one set of buttocks.
The 75” Anniversary Dinner was at the Kirnbilli Club on Friday, 25 October 2002. We had booked the venue from 7 pm to midnight and used every minute of it. One hundred and seventy people turned up to celebrate our birthday together. We finally remembered to sing happy birthday at the end of the evening when most had gone home. The food was excellent, the venue ideal and the price at $40 was right. 170 happy, smiling, satisfied guests brought tears of joy to the 75“ Anniversary sub- committee.
75” Anniversary Picnic on Sunday, 27th October at Quarantine Park, Abbortsford. This was meant as a low key event for all, including those who could not attend the Reunion at Coolana or the dinner. About 30 or so turned up and enjoyed a sizzled sausage. This park is a delightful venue with excellent facilities at a river front location. Ideal for members with young children.
The dinner caused the most concern; how many to book for, would they turn up, what would happened if they didnt, when could we cancel. The first goal was 100 attendees. The second was 122 attendees, the breakeven number. By 30 August we had 62 dinner bookings, this crept up to 88 by 13 September. The magic number of 100 was reached on 28 September. By 10 October we had 135, in excess of the breakeven number. Then 148 on 16 October with a week and a half to go. On the night itself 170 people attended, and we even had a couple of cancellations. My personal observation of the average bushwalker is a
~ charming/attractive/handsome person, who does
not plan ahead, does not read notices in the Magazine, and waits till the last minute before committing to attend the dinner.
The 75“ Anniversary Sub-Committee which planned, organised and managed the events was a team of three, Vicki Garamy, Sophie Watson and myself. Everyone helped to refine the celebrations to what they became, to cull out the wild and unrealistic ideas. Some others were not on the sub-committee but also helped with printing, mailing, displays, processing cheques and printing name tags.
At the dinner I was honoured with honorary active membership. Then I did not really know what to say, and I still dont, except thank you. Patrick James
DONT FORGET THE CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY WED 18 DECEMBER 7 PM | . Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002 Page 5
4 Letter To The Editor
Your muse Cleo (who I suspect is not a goddess) is bemg rather pedantic in taking issue at the statements made on life at the time of the formation of the SBW in 1927. She seems to have picked up the wrong scroll to make comment from references outside the intent of the writers.
The references to television were made as to how it was here in 1927 and not to the crude experimental images which were transmitted from as early as 1907. The public transmission of television images took place in England in 1937 and the USA in 1939. Television was unknown in Australia until transmissions commenced in 1956 to coincide with the Olympic games in Melbourne.
I have no access to the statistics of the number of telephones in 1927 but from personal knowledge, even when I joined the SBW in 1938, few members of the SBW, my relatives or acquaintances had a telephone. I did not have one until 1950 and generally we used work phones or made arrangements at the weekly SBW meetings. Likewise, few SBW members had cars and in 1938 I can only recollect four members with one. When it was possible there was no great line-up of cars, as there is today, at the reunions. Travel by train, bus, mail car or hire car was the norm.
The onset of the depression was a gradual process and affected my father when he was put on a week-on week-off roster for over three years in 1929,
I do not know for what year the basic wage is quoted but it was much lower than the 5/16/6 quoted. I do not know the 1927 figure but in the 1930's, when I joined the workforce it was 3-10-0 and tradesman when I finished my apprenticeship received less than five pounds a week.
As far as the purchase of a car is concerned, you, pay for what you get. I had an idea of buying a car in 1939, it was to be the cheapest, a Standard, 8HP,- open top tourer. The price was 250. A Chevrolet sedan cost around 375.. So it would have taken a lot longer to payoff with salary of a tradesman than today with the cheapest car being only about one third of the average annual wage. There is an old saying there are statistics and statistics, bend them to suit the point to be made.
A profile of Clio, would show a male with a long membership in the SBW, with a deep personal knowledge of early members and their activities. He would have an interest in the classics and the environment with traming as an economist but without deep technical knowledge.
Reg Alder
At Last, A First!
Patrick McNaught, has contributed a photograph of : a koala taken near Russells
Needle to the SBW web site.
SBW members are reminded _ that contributions of photographs to the SBW website are welcome. Photographs may be of areas, flora, fauna or SBW activities. People should be identifiable only if they have given express permission to have their photograph published to the world. File size for photographs should be limited to about 100kb; in general 50kb makes an acceptable photo. If you wish you can submit a short description to be published with the photographs. Photographs should be general and not too descriptive i.e. we dont want to tell the world about our favourite places.
Also required are recipes for the development an on-line cookbook of bush food.
Contributions can be sent to me at giacomel@tpgi.com.au. Eddy Giacomel
Nsw WILDERNESS TRANSIT
: YERRANDERE: Gost Towns STARLIGHTS TRACK. BUNGonta CAVES.
| Wo Wo. NERRIGA |
Vis Parrith, Katcombea & Blackheath for Kanangra Walls Mon & Wed at fam. Frid at 7am 4 . Retums 4om Mon, Wed, Frid. Via Starlights, Mitagong & Manan tor Wog Wog-Nerriga Tues.& Thurs & Sun at tam Retums 4 pm Tues, Thurs, Sur. : Yerranderie Ghost Town first Saturday in each month, returns Sun al 1 pm (any Friday min 6) Group booking discounts or charler service
Tel 0246 832344 Mob 0428 832 344 iwww.wildernesstransit.com.au
[ ydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 6
Honorary Membership
It was fitting that at the time of celebrating its 75” anniversary we should honour members who have
made significant contribution to the Club over many years. Therefore, the 75“ Anniversary Dinner was the setting for President Rosemary MacDougal to present the following with their Honorary Membership certificates.
Heather White Heather Joyce joined the SBW in 1953 and quickly established a reputation as a strong walker. To quote a verse of Jim Brown's about the 85 Miler…….
“Now Heather Joyce was out in front, a pint-sized little dame,
We'd all have thought the Devil's Hole would leave her halt and lame,
But she's done it this time, she's done it now” - and so on.
Throughout the Fifties Heather served as Social Secretary and as a Committee member before becoming President in 1964.
Heather was involved in Search and Rescue for twenty years and played an important part in haising with the. Police Rescue Squad which led to an harmonious relationship between walkers and police after some difficult times.
When the search was being made for a suitable parcel of land for the Club to purchase with the “Era Funds” Heather, with others, devoted a lot of time to the quest and when Coolana was chosen she became one of the first trustees.
In 1967 Heather married fellow SBW, John White and together they farmed flowers on Mount Tomah for many years, moving eventually to Bridport in Tasmania where they were hosts to a steady stream of their SBW friends.
Jim Callaway It seems that Jim Callaway has been a bushwalker since time began, not only with our club but with another club as well (where he met his wife many years ago).
He joined SBW in 1964 and almost immediately began leading walks. Even in those early years he -attracted the title Gallop-away Callaway a description which so aptly described his walking style and which has persisted until today.
Jim has served on the Management Committee for many years. In more recent times he has been the Clubs Confederation Delegate (over 12 years in total) and was President of the Confederation in 1998/99.
He has a great love for the Royal National Park and lives very close to its border at Heathcote. His interest in the park management and conservation is reflected in his role on the Royal National Park Advisory Committee for several years and his participation in local bush regeneration and land care.
Jim Callaway has been an active walks leader for over 40 years and has contributed so much to this club and to the bush walking movement.
Patrick James
Patrick joined the club in 1985 and almost immediately took on the post of Acting Social Secretary while the Social Sectetary was away. Since this time he has been active in Club affairs despite the demands of developing his own business as Environmental Consultant and studying for post-graduate degrees. His contribution to the Club has covered many areas and he has served several years on the Management Committee as Social Secretary, Secretary and Magazine Editor (four years)
Patrick has played a significant role in the SBW Anniversary celebrations over the past 15 years and was instrumental in salvaging the celebration activities after other members have resigned. His positions on these Committees have been:
* Secretary 60” Anniversary Sub-Committee 1986/7
Chairman 70“ Anniversary Sub-Committee 1997
Chairman 75” Anniversary Sub Committee 2001
He has been active in other areas and on other sub-committees, such as New Member Training (where he has given a weekend away every three months for over eight years) the Club Management Review Sub- Committee and an very active Coordinator of the Coolana Management Committee. LT - Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 7
Coolana Report: Don Finch
xe If camping at Coolana over the summer please observe the bush fire danger period regulations. These include never leaving a fire unattended and always having a water supply to put a fire out completely.
During a Total Fire Ban only gas burners can be used in the shelter shed - no liquid or solid fuels and no gas lamps outside the shelter shed.
As the water supply is limited please conserve water where possible. If the pipe line supply dries up then the tank behind the shelter shed should be husbanded to make it last. There is plenty of water in the nver for swimming and general use (although you might have to carry drinking water.
The weeds, along with other plants are having a hard time during the drought but if they put their heads up pull them out.
Applications for two grants have been made to the Sydney Catchment Authority for fund to assist with the continuing bushcare program at Coolana.
Another Coolana Weed
Capeweed ~ Arctotheca calendula is a low-growing, perennial daisy like plant whose foliage has a basal rosette formation to approximately 30 cm wide. The leaves are deeply lobed and can reach a length of up to 15 cm. The flowers form at the centre of the rosetted leaves and usually sit flat or are only slightly raised above the foliage.
The flowers are similar in appearance to a daisy or gazania and have approximately 17 petals, which are deeper yellow towards the centre of the flower and pale yellow on the out third of the petal. The plant is spread via the woolly seeds, which are pinky brown in colour. To remove dig out the root with a long trowel. Glysphosate will also prove effective.
Experience Coolana at Christmas/New Year
No matter how bad the fire season and how long the drought continues, Coolana will continue to provide a green and very pleasant camping location. Come and enjoy the quiet peaceful bushland setting. The river level may be lower than normal but it is still very deep so care should be exercised when swimming and children should be closely supervised.
wet and wonderful
: ee Kakadu and the magical se ndt Kimberley at their lush, green, magnificent best. Come enjoy the wild sivers, Worried about camping in the gentle creeks, thundering rain? Consider our easier options: waterfalls, carpets of flowers, tong day walks combined with air spectacular storms, cosy rock conditioned accommodation at
shelters and the warm rains that night. Check the website make bushwalking in the tropical or ask us for details. summer such a delight.
www.bushwalkingholidays.com.au
Wi
Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002 Page 8 |
Conservation Report
David Trinder
New Wilderness Areas in New South Wales
Many parts of NSW are declared as wilderness areas, most of these are in national parks, but not all and not all of national parks are declared wilderness. These areas are protected and activity in them is restricted. Wilderness areas that we know and walk in are most of the 200 km stnp of the Great Dividing Range west of Sydney, the Budawangs, Ettrema, Kosciuszko and Barrington.
The NSW Goverment, on the 26“ September this year, announced the declaration as wilderness areas of an additional 151,000 hectares in northern NSW and 122,000 hectares im the |south of the state. This will create an additional 14 new wilderness areas and an increase to 16 existing wilderness areas. All new areas are within existing national parks and reserves.
land, which is still essentially in its natural state, unaffected by human intervention. They can be
any of a range of land types, including vast red
deserts, river valleys, rugged mountains, jagged coastlines or snow covered alpine areas. Australia is one of a few land-masses that still has wilderness, however only 4 to 5 percent of NSW could still be called wilderness. With the newly declared areas, 1.9% is declared wilderness areas. Most of the wilderness areas are in national parks and nature reserves. Wilderness areas are set aside to protect landscapes, plants and animals and to allow the natural processes of evolution to continue with minimum interference so the biodiversity of each individual environment is conserved as a single functioning natural system.
Under the Wildemess Act any person or proup can propose an area as wilderness area. Assessment and consultation processes are conducted by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Government may declare all or part of the proposed area as wilderness. Once declared the NPWS manages the areas so that native plant and animal species are disturbed as little as possible. Pest animal control, weed control, and _ bushfire management are all important parts of this management. The current declarations mark the conclusion of two separate wilderness assessment studies for northern NSW and southern NSW, which began in 1996.
Wilderness areas are places for nature where people are only an occasional and respectful visitor. People of all fitness levels can enjoy stunning views of wilderness areas from around the edges. Generally, access into wilderness areas is only by foot, vehicles and horses are not permitted. Walkers must travel in groups no greater than eight, adhere to the principles of minimum impact bushwalking and _ be thoroughly prepared and_ self reliant.
Opportunities for activities that are not
appropriate in wilderness areas are usually
provided in nearby national parks, state recreation areas or in state forests.
There are eight new wilderness areas in northem NSW.
* Levers Wildemess area, an area a 20 km long on
the Queensland border north of Kyogle,
e Bundjalung Wilderness area is north of Yamba
16 km along the coast, e Banyabba Wilderness is 22km long north of Grafton,
e Cathedral Rocks Wilderness is a small area
east of Armidale,
Limebumers Creek Wildemess is 16km long
along the coast north of Port Macquarie,
e Mount Seaview, Kangarang and Carrai
Wilderness areas are on the mid north coast.
There are seven additions to existing wilderness
areas; Guy Fawkes, New England, Willi Willi
Washpool, Macleay Gorges, Bindery-Mann and
Barrington.
In southern NSW
e the Ettrema Wilderness will be augmented by large new areas called the North Ettrema Wilderness and the West ' Ettrema Wilderness and a small addition in the south.
e On the far south coast wilderness areas will be increased with new areas called Tuross and Buckenbowra and some additions to Woila-Deva wilderness.
e The South Kosciuszko Wildemess is increased by new areas called Indi and Westem Fall, these are west of Mount Kosciuszko also there are additions to the Pilot Wilderness and the Jagungal Wildemess.
e The North Kosciuszko Wilderness is increased by a new area west of the ACT called Bramina and additions to Bimberi and Goobarragandra Wilderness Areas.
The Australian Conservation Foundation is asking for donations to help prevent nuclear waste dumps in outback Australia. Tax-deductible gifts can be made to Australian Conservation Foundation 340 Gore
Street Fitzroy Vic 3065 or call.1800 332 510.
bala ve . te
Prob
This is the new backpack from WE. The NEW RIVER. As you would expect, if is unmistakably Wilderness Equipment. Every detail has. had to earn its keep in-a development process spanning 20 years. lf the picture, .could be turned around you'd be looking at the most comfortable and durable; harness system
* there is. Which, of course, is
a good reason not to make
_' more than one or two subtle
“So what is really new? Look 9
changes.
down the list of special features. We've brought into play unique ideas we've been carrying around for some time. They solve outstanding problems, ones you will quickly recognise from your Own mountain and wilderness travels.
Come : and see the NEW RIVER and get an expert fitting at:
Eastwood Camping Centre
3 Trelawney Street Eastwood
Telephone: 9858 3833
mW Yeah
THE*QRIGINAL
Wildersess
NEW RIVER An expedition-capacity pack available in the fullrange of WE sizes and harness configurations.
Equipment
camping centre
eastwood
Features:
Detachable top cover teams with the hip-harness waist-strap to cary it as a comfortable twin -compartment bum-bag.
Main canvas bag extends to a dry-bag type roll fop with two compression straps over. You can swim and raft with this pack, or use it in bivies.
Leave the top cover and base behind for absoiute lightweight.
Separate zip access into the expanding interior space of the top cover,
Readily accessible flat pocket for laminated maps (comes with a thin PE cutting-board insert)
Canvas back-pocket modules available.
Nothing but canvas fabric in the seams of the bag. No webbing, no touch-tape, no leakage pathways and simply zero stress points.
Quick-release or standard side compression straps, all re- movable. Pasition the buckles where you wish,
We've gone back to a simple touch-tape strap closure on the hip-harness. Unbreakable, durable and absolutely zero creep.
Subtle shoulder harness suspen- sion. Soaks up the phase difference between hip and shoulder dynamics, tunable to the pack weight.
Close fitting, removable base reinforcing attaching front and back. Leakage pathways in the main-bag seams eliminated; easy repair. Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002 Page 10
The October 2002 General Meeting.
When the President called the meeting to order at around 2002 there was a remarkable tally of about 22 members in the room. Apologies were tendered for Patrick James and Gretel Woodward.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and received with no matters arising.
Correspondence included a copy of the minutes of the! most recent Confederation meeting and a letter from the Commonwealth Bank, refusing to add our Secretary, Leigh, to the list of cheque signatories, as they are unable to find either of the two copies of the Committee minutes we have sent them to date. There were also acknowledgments from the leader of the Federal Opposition and the head of the National Heritage Commission relating to our correspondence in support of preservation of the Styx Valley in Tasmania. This latter appeared to be! an enumeration of the legislative and administrative entanglements which were likely to render our quest futile.
The President then presented a review of recent committee activities. Details of this have already appeared in the magazine. New member Ian Thorpe was called forward for welcome to the club.
The Treasurer reported that we began the month with $1,061, received income of $7,821, spent $1,328 and closed with a balance of $7,553. The income figure was swollen by redemption of around $5,000 from our cash management account.
Our Confederation delegates indicated they had
nothing to add to the previous report at the time of the meeting. No conservation report was available to the meeting. _ The walks reports were next, with Carol presenting. We began at the weekend of 14 and 15” September for which no overnight walks were to be had. Peter Love had a party of 11 on his Saturday walk out from Wentworth Falls. Conditions were fine and warm, with some debate as to the exact grading that should have been applied to the tnp. No reports were available to the meeting for walks by either of the other two Peters on the program that weekend. The Miller had a walk programmed for the Saturday out along the ridges from Mountain Lagoon, while the Christian had a walk planned from Birrabang Brook in the Blue Mountains NP on the Sunday. Ralph Penglis had a party of 11 on his Sunday walk along the bays, headlands, pubs and coffee parlors of the Easter Suburbs. Errol Sheedy, a little further South, had 9 starters, a glorious spring day and wildflowers in abundance on his trip out from Otford to Burning Palms on the same day. Jim Callaway was also out there that day, leading his two-week deferred tip from Helensburgh to Otford. The party of two lunched with Errols mob.
Barry Wallace
The weekend of 20, 2A , 22 September saw Tony Crichton leading a party of 8 on his qualifying walk into the Kowmung from Kanangra Walls in warm conditions. The conditions may partly explain the two migraine headaches which developed along the way. There was another qualifying walk that weekend as well. Maurice Smith had 3 walkers on his trip into Ettrema Creek in warm conditions. They reported that all the creeks were somewhat low. Michael Bickley reported a party of 6 and an OK walk for his trip on the Old North Road in Dbarug NP. Tony Holgates trip out to Gunyah Beach that day does not seem to have got a mention for some reason. Ron Watters had 3 on his Sunday walk out from Mount Banks car park.
Tony Manes led a party of 10 in pleasant sunny conditions on his overnight walk out from Little Forest Plateau over the weekend of 27, 28, 29 September. They also remarked on how dry conditions were. Jim Percys qualifying overnight walk to Wentworth Creek attracted 5 starters. Conditions were fine with cold winds. The Saturday walk that weekend went under the baton of Tom Wenman with the 9 starters enjoying fine, wamm conditions with a cool breeze. Brian Holden and the party of 4 on his cycle trip along the shores of Lake Illawarra enjoyed a pleasant cycle. Roger Treagus had to postpone his Great River Walk stage 13 scheduled for the Sunday. Maurice Smith led the party of one on Eddie Collins Sunday roller coaster trip from Govetts Leap in Eddies absence.
October long weekend was hot and dry. Stephen Adams had 5 starters and great weather for his vintage walk out from Batsh Camp but Peter Miller cancelled his Kowmung River walk, possibly due to total fire bans. David Trinder and a party of 5 accomplished a Barrington Tops tour; even went through a storm on the Saturday night. Mark Pattesons visit to Mount Canobolas SRA attracted a party of 9, and of the day walks that weekend Nancye Aldersons Saturday walk from Rhodes to Meadowbank had 8 walkers and Judy Jones Sydney bridges and bays trip had 8 people out on what was described as a lovely day. It also brought the walks reports for the month to a close.
Jim Calloway expressed his thanks to the meeting for expressions of sympathy from members following the death of his son.
General business saw passage of a motion to amend the constitution to permit a reduction in the number and hence frequency of general meetings. This has been covered in more detail elsewhere.
There were a number of announcements concerning what were then current events and the meeting closed at around 2137. L Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002 Page 11 |
Another Koala Sighting Maurice Smith
3 eae On a day walk with Ron Watters on Sunday 27 October into the - Nattai National Park to Russells Needle, we were privileged to have a sighting of a koala. For me this is my second sighting inside 12 months after walking with the club for nearly 9 years before my first sighting in November 2001. This time we were in Nattai NP which like so many other parks is affected by the drought.
Although the Nattai River has a reasonable water level many of the side creeks are dry as a …. [you can supply your own word/s as you consider appropriate]. However, after we had clambered up to the point of the Needle, had a well deserved lunch on top of the Needle and we had started on our way back to the cars when a walk member who ducked behind a tree to help it survive the drought fact startled the koala who was feeding on fresh leaves around the base of a nearby tree.
After the koala took itself about two metres up a blackened tree trunk (black as a result of the January 2002 bushfires) our group and the koala watched each other for quite a few minutes.
I have always pictured koalas as sitting in the forks of tree branches however our koala has not read the standard textbook about koala behaviour. Instead our koala was just gripping onto the tree trunk with nary a tree fork in sight. It did not let us out of its sight.
It was with considerable regret that we left the koala to its own devices, probably a long sleep to recover from the shock of seeing humans in its territory. After all they do sleep for a large percentage of their life.
The walk itself was quite challenging with several steep descents and ascents, with all party members quite dirty as a result of close encounters with blackened scrub after last summers bushfires. We also had some interesting navigational challenged, arriving back to our vehicle by the light of our torches.
However, Ron I enjoyed the walk and quite possibly I will be doing some more in that part of the world.
Chance Meeting Ron Watters
And there lie was. Sitting at the base of his fire blackened gum tree residence with a fine view down the spine of the narrow ridge to Russell's Needle. Totally composed, and unconcerned he walked around his wilderness domain. Perhaps he needed a rest from clinging to his tree. He did not appear to have any brothers, sisters, uncles , cousins or aunts, just himself in glorious isolation,
We sat just three metres away and silently observed him. What a magnificent creature! What a photo opportunity !
Patrick took his picture. This he did not mind
at all Maybe he secretly aspired to a modelling
career. But time was pressing on so we left him to his solitary thoughts. It is magical moments like this that make walking in the bush such a delight. (Nattai National Park 27/10 Ron Watters, Maurice Smith, Patrick McNaught, Marianne Watt and Mark Dabb)
Notice - Camp Fires and Stoves
, All members are advised to check the restrictions on lighting fires in intended camping areas. Be aware that high to extreme bush fire danger currently applies throughout much of NSW. This means that fires in the open are restricted and may only be used under certain conditions eg a camp fire for cooking purposes. However, most national parks, reserves and forest areas around Sydney have local fire bans which mean no fires of any nature are permitted. Total Fire Bans may be declared on days of extreme fire danger and fires in the open, including cooking and camp fires, are totally prohibited for the period of the ban. Lighting any fire in the open on a day of Total Fire Ban may lead to a fine of $5,000 and six months imprisonment. This applies to any naked flame including camp fires and camping Stoves.
* Advice To Leaders * Many of Sydneys National Parks are closed due to drought and fire restrictions.
All leaders are advised to check on park closures before leading parties in national parks Failure to keep to park regulations could place the insurance cover for their walk at risk and lead to personal liability. The latest advice on park closures may be found at the NPWS website:
www. npws.nsw. gov.au/news/firenews_closures or by phoning 9542 0648.
| Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 12
Information for SBW Walks Leaders and Members oe Fire Bans and Park Closures
~ a _ The following information was extracted from the NP&WS web site as at o* November. The status of ail parks and reserves can change and new closures announced. Please check www.npws.nsw.gov.au/news/firenews.html
A Park Fire Ban is in force for all parks and reserves within the NPWS Central Directorate. This includes parks and reserves in an area from Mudgee and Gulgong in the north-west to Oberon in the south-west to Wollongong in the south-east and to Newcastle and Maitland in the north- east. This park fire ban will remain in place across Central Directorate for
the duration of the current fire emergency.
Park Closures (some areas within parks the are open - see below)
Blue Mountains All parks in the World Heritage area will be closed.
Sydney North Ku-ring-gai Chase, Garigal , Lane Cove National Parks
Sydney South Royal, Botany Bay Georges River National Parks
All, walking tracks in Kanangra, Wollemi, Kuringai NPs, Grose Valley are among current (9” Nov) park
closures. In addition all walking tracks within the NPWS Central Directorate are closed until further
notice unless specified as open below:
Blue Mountains National Park
All canyons in Blue Mountains National Park are closed. On the North side of the Great Western
Highway the cliff top lookouts and walking tracks around Blackheath are open but the following areas are
closed:
e All canyons and all walking tracks into the Grose Valley
e The Grose Valley catchment is closed. This includes all of Blue Mountains National Park that is within
the following area: North of Great Western Highway, South of Bells Line of Rd, Fast of Darling Causeway and West of Nepean River.
On the South side of the Great Western Highway:
All:cliff top lookouts and tracks and Alll valley tracks are open but all canyons including Empress Canyon
are closed
Kanangra Boyd National Park
Kanangra Walls Lookout and the Boyd River Camping Area are open but all canyons, all walking tracks
and all 4WD tracks are closed.
Wollemi National Park
The Glow Worm Tunnel walking tracks, Newnes Picnic and Camping Area, Dunns Swamp, Picnic and
Camping Area, Wheeney Creek Picnic and Camping Area are open.
All walking tracks not identified above, all canyons and all 4WD tracks are closed
Brisbane Water National Park
Girrakool and Somersby Falls picnic areas are closed
Garawarra State Recreation Area, Heathcote National Park and Parr State Recreation Area are all
closed
Royal National Park
Lady Carrington Drive and all major picnic areas are open. All trails and walking tracks on the eastem
side of the park, east of Lady Wakehurst Drive, Sir Bertram Stevens Drive, Maianbar Road are also open
(unless there is a total fire ban) but all other areas west of this are closed.
Sydney Harbour National Park A
walking tracks are currently open
Yengo National Park is closed
Valley-of-the-Waters Canyon (also known as Empress Canyon) is currently closed to public access while
two exit anchor systems in the canyon are replaced. The date for re-opening is dependent on engineering
advice.
Bungonia State Recreation Area is partially closed for feral animal! control work and for police search operations near the Hillydale property adjoining the park. Long Point and Badgerys Lookouts, near Tallong, will remain open Morton National Park The Tianjara Fire Trail will be closed until mid January to replace two log bridges.
Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 13
What to Do in a Bushfire !
. During the current very dry conditions and the high to critical fire danger period, the following advice is very relevant to our bushwalking activity. Fires may be encountered either when driving to or from the walk or during the walk. Information is as extracted from the website www.ema.gov.au/managementcomminfo/community/bushfires. html)
If Caught In A Fire When Driving - Shelter in the Car Dont drive into or near bushfires. If caught in a bushfire dont drive through flames or thick smoke.
Stop in an area of low vegetation. Leave motor running and airconditioner (recycle), hazard lights and headlights on.
Stay inside unless near safe shelter. Keep vents, windows and doors closed. Lie inside, below window level, under a woollen blanket for skin protection.
After the main fire-front passes, if car is on fire or heat and fumes inside are severe, get out and move to already burnt ground, keeping your whole body covered with the blanket.
The fuel tank is unlikely to explode in the period you need to stay in the car while being shielded from the deadly yadiant heat of the main fire-front. If Caught In Fire On Foot - Seek Shelter
Dont panic - cover all exposed skin and hair.
Move across-slope, away from the fire-front, then down-slope towards the rear of the main fire-front. Find open or already-burnt ground. Dont try to outrun fire, or go uphill, or through even low flames, unless you can clearly see a safe area very close by.
If you cant avoid the fire, lie face-down under a bank, rock, loose earth or in a hollow, or if possible get into a dam or stream, but not a metal water tank.
Emergency Survival Requirements
If faced with the dangers of body dehydration, smoke inhalation and radiant heat from flames, emergency protection is possible, even in high-intensity fires. Wrap yourself in a heavy, pure wool blanket and carry water to drink; use moistened blanket corer as a smoke mask.
BOOK REVIEW. Owen Marks
On the Milford Track. by Almis Simankevicius
Once again I have been asked by a fellow Sydney Bushwalker club member, Almis Simankevicius to give a short critique on his latest book. It gives me great pleasure to do so.
Milford Sound is one of the worlds beauty spots and this short book describes the walk that Almis and friend Carol did, from Lake Te Anau, through deep wet forests, up over the rainy alpine pass and down to the deluging upper reaches of the Sound, then by boat to the little township of Milford. Almis and Carol carried all their gear, but at the three overnight huts there was a booked bed and stoves.
As this is one of the wettest areas of the world, the rain is the main focal point of all those who walk this famous Track. I did it many years ago and luckily I only had rain on the last day: “On the first day I was told to hold my hands out and the birds would land on them and they did. Imagine wild birds doing this!
As with the. other books that Almis has written, this one also:shows evidence of much preparation. History of the area, how the track
was built, a poem on rain, descriptions of the fauna and flora, Maori legends are sprinkled throughout the book and his insight into the area makes it a light and entertaining book. There are photos, diagrams, maps etc and some pages at the end that are for those who are planning a trip there.
To those who have not been there it is a worthwhile read and for those who have been there it is quite enjoyable and will bring back memories. It can be read in about two hours with a coffee break and is light to carry. Perfect for bedside table but then you should take Milo instead of coffee.
This is another book which can be recommended to all. The price is $20 and it is self - published by Almis under Good Walking Books, with a sensible long lasting cover that will withstand dirty hands.
It will be available at the club night of November 20 during David Trinders slide presentation on The Milford Track. The book can also be obtained from Almis on 9498-8995
or by email at goodwalking@aol.com. Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 14 |
On the Milford Track.
Since the route was opened in 1888, everyone from experienced walkers to beginners breaking in their new boots, have all taken up the challenge of walking The Milford Track sometimes called the finest walk in the world.
The finest Walk in the World? I asked. What about the classic trails in the Pyrenees or the Swiss Alps?
J hadnt done those walks yet, but I had seen enough glossy pictures of them to make me think that it would be pretty hard to better them.
Why dont you just try it and see for yourself, the old Milford walker suggested.
I had heard of The Milford Track fleetingly over the years, butnever paid much attention because it seemed too controlled (you had to book your place) and that it was a rather expensive (about $1400) adventure. Was it really worth it for just a four day walk?: *
By chance we found ourselves free for two weeks and decided to visit New Zealand and include the Track in our itinerary.
We took the Freedom (Independent) Walkers option, which was quite affordable (around $200) instead of the six day guided walkers package. The brochure for the Independent Walkers told us that we would be covering a distance of 54 km over four days.
New Zealand has an invigorating freshness about it that rekindled my sense of outdoor adventure. We arrived at Te Anau for the beginning of our joumey. A ferry took us to the beginning of the track and we were on our way.
There are three overnight buts for independent walkers on the 54 km trail. The Department Of Conservation are responsible for the huts and have set up the communal facilities in a sparse and utilitarian fashion. The kitchens have cold running water, wash sinks with sponges and scouring pads for cleamng. Gas cooking rings for meal preparation, tables and benches for eating at, but no artificial lighting, which means that meals have to be prepared before darkness falls.
In each hut a warden would give us the run down on rules and regulations for our benefit and then describe the weather forecasts for the next day. It was a great time to get to know your fellow walkers.
The first day and half the weather was kind and the sun highlighted the colours of the Clinton River and the surrounding mountain ranges. On the afternoon of the second day the rain poured down. Fiordland is the wettest area in New Zealand and annually records up to 7.5 metres of rain! It ramed off and on for the next two and a
Almis Simankevicius
half days and we readily identified with the following classic lines, which an anonymous walker had penned:
It rained and it rained and rained and rained.
The average fall was well maintained.
And when the tracks were simply bogs,
It started raining cats and dogs.
After a drought of half an hour,
We had a most refreshing shower.
And then most curious thing of all,
A gentle rain began to fall.
Next day was also fairly dry,
Save for a deluge from the sky.
Which wetted the party to the skin
And after that the rain set in.
As if in compensation for the continual drenching rain and rough track, one hut warden told us, You have experienced a real Milford Track day, none of this clear blue sky and sunshine stuff that you see in the glossy brochures.
The next night a storm blew through the valley and we had to run outdoors to rescue our clothes before the strong winds blew them off into the dark bush.
We climbed up to the famous Mackinnon Pass and were awed by the magnificent glacially sculpted valleys below. Cheeky Keas (NZ parrots) accompanied us over the pass and showed off their aerial acrobatics. In the next hut, walkers had left their impressions of the journey in a notebook. An Australian left this particular entry:
I think we should all give ourselves a pat on the back for being hard core in the rain today. All you can do is laugh when your undies are wet
and your pants are falling down. At least we feel
weve really done the track or got done by it.
And the sandflies - what pests. We had bought tubes of repellent from the Te Anau pharmacy and found that frequent applications of the cream were needed to keep the little bloodsuckers at bay.
Arriving at the end of the adventure at Sandfly Point, trembling and euphoric, I thought of the amazing four days we had just experienced. We had glimpsed some of the Maon myths, we had seen glow worms, climbed the amazing Mackinnon Pass, saw the Sutherland Falls, experienced strong hail storms and read a little of the history of the Tracks discovery.
I stood there on the jetty at Sandfly Pot, looking at the plentiful waterfalls streaking the granite mountains and wondered s this the finest Walk in the World?
The creatures and wonderful landscape that is Fiordland say that you can only discover its secrets when you walk the Track yourself. I agree. Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 15
2002 Year of the Outback Paul McCann
The year 2002 was the year of the outback. Did you expenence our great outback during 2002? Most of Australia's outback is generally unsuitable for bushwalking, lacking significant surface features and surface water. There are however several locations where one can undertake walks of various lengths and experience the feel of the Australian outback.
In New South Wales, Mutawintji National Park near Broken Hill offers several walks of varying length, mostly day walks. The Flinders and Gammon Ranges in South Australia also offer the visitor who seeks the solitude of the bush the opportunity to venture away from the more popular spots accessible by vehicle. Similarly several national parks in the Pilbara region of Western Australia also have potential for longer overnight walks away from the access roads.
In the West Macdonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs the Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission has developed the Larapinta Trail. The trail starts at the Old Telegraph Station on the northern outskirts of Alice Springs and extends west for 220 kms following spectacular rocky ridges, watercourses lined with River Red Gums and through several gorges to finish at Redbank Gorge. A side trip from Redbank Gorge takes you to the top of Mount Sonder which is the fourth highest peak in the Northern Territory at 1380 metres. From the summit of Mount Sonder you can see several high peaks including Mount Zeil at 1531 metres which is the highest point on the Australian continent west of the Great Dividing Range.
The vegetation on the ndge tops is generally fairly sparse and low, so spectacular views are everywhere along -the higher parts of the trail (pack lots of film!). The terrain is similar to South West Tasmania except there are no boggy button grass plains between the ranges and no lakes between the peaks. The water (which is as cold as an alpine lake) is found in deep pools in the numerous rocky gorges which cut through the ranges. These waterholes are a haven for the local wildlife and the gorges provide protection for many plants not found elsewhere in the world. Stop along the track for a few minutes and: you. will observe numerous birds feeding amongst the-mulga woodlands. .
Being in the centre of the driest continent, the lack of water can b.e a problem. 5 The Parks and Wildlife Commission have installed small tanks in several locations along the track which are regularly topped up by parks staff. However the
trail passes through sections of the park which cannot be reached by 4WD and thus no water can be provided. It is therefore necessary in several sections to carry sufficient water for up to two days at a time (two days and one night). However this is a small price to pay as some of the dry camps are ori top of the ranges where magnificent sunrises and sunsets can be enjoyed.
The best time to undrtake the walk is in the cooler months from May to August. However the nights can be cold with temperatures falling below zero on some nights. A tent provides protection from the wind and offers some extra warmth. Also remember you are just south of the Tropic of Capricom and often above 1000 metres above sea level, so the sun can be fairly strong with a high UV content. Insects are rarely a problem. Properly prepared, a walk along part or all of the Larapinta trail could be one of the highlights of your bushwalking year.
I plan to return to Alice Springs in a year or so to complete the remainder of the trail. At this stage [ envisage a ten day walk with possibly a day walk at the end. Further details will appear in a future walks program. Remember too that Willis's Walkabouts also offer trips to other parts of Central Australia where bushwalking can be enjoyed.
If you are arriving at Alice Springs before 3 pm on the day before the start of a walk, take an evening tour to Rainbow Valley where at sunset the sandstone cliffs are as colourful as Uluru. Located only 100 kms south of Alice Springs, Rainbow Valley is on the western edge of the Simpson Desert and offers the visitor the opportunity to experience some stunning desert scenery without having to drive for hours. Emu Run, a local tour operator, has an evening tour most days, and can also drop off (and pick up) smaller groups at various trackheads along the Larapinta Trail.
Canyoning Trips
Members may be aware that certain types of activities that were included on the SBWs Walks Programme are no longer on the programme because they are no longer covered by insurance.
Members who wish to be advised of and participate in private canyoning trips, which will not be recognised as SBW activities, should contact Kenn Clacher on 9954 9708 or at kenn@pacific.net.au
= Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 16 |
THE WALKS PAGES
Impact of the Drought on Bushwalks Maurice Smith :
We have heard on the news services of the impact of the current. drought on the farming community and the consequential effects on farmers incomes and on produce prices.
The drought is also impacting on our walks program as well. Some of the effects include national parks being closed by NPWS due to current or potential bushfires, and then there are walks ,that are focussed around being able to have a refreshing swim that are not proceeding due to lack of swimmable water.
iI had proposed to re-walk the full length of Ettrema Creek over 6 or 7 days in the upcoming Christmas holidays. This was to have been a repeat of my four day Easter 2002 trip, but this time at a reasonably leisurely pace so that we could take advantage of the many frequent and superb swimming holes.
into Ettrema Creek all that we have found are long stretches of hot, baked river stones, with very little water. For those members who have enjoyed Ettrema Creek you will recall the superb clear water in the many swimming holes. Alas, due to the drought the swimming holes are often no more than a dry deep hole on the dry creek bed. Sometimes there is a bit of water in the deep hole, but is not much more than a childs wading pool in depth.
In reading about the El Nino and La Nina effects the various pundits who are paid to consult the chicken entrails are telling all who are interested that we are not likely to get any substantial rain before March 2003. However, other pundits who consult the sun-spots cycle are making altemmate predictions but I was forced by pressure of time to make a decision. So while we would not die from lack of water in Ettrema Creek the ideal conditions that we had at Easter 2002 are not likely to be in place for my proposed Christmas 2002 walk. So out of concern for fellow club members who have signed up for the Christmas walk with me I have postponed the walk by at least 12 months.
As a consolation I have decided to lead a Snowy Mountains trip instead, the details are in the Summer program. I would welcome you contacting me about the Snowies trip. In informal conversations with several club members, I already have several members who are interested is experiencing some of the delights that the Snowy Mountains has to offer. As there was a quite good snow season in
Winter 2002 I expect there will be quite adequate water for our needs, although the water will still be quite cold, perhaps one might even say bracingly cold.
A Taste of Summer Barbara Bruce
I am an aspiring retiree, so I joined this host of real ones at Berrara (near Sussex Inlet) during the last week of October - John and Lyn Poleson, Bill and Fran Holland, Brian Hart, Paul McGann, Robert Sames and _ Loraine Bloomfield.
Anyway, we were certainly blessed with lovely weather the whole time early summer fare - so we were able to sample most of what this most relaxing area has to offer.
We were able to do a circular walk from our cottage near the lagoon, through the Cudmirrah National Park to the beach. Naturally the bush remains very dry and still bears the burn scars of the dramatic fires last summer ~ they got as far as the sand on the beach and only stopped because they couldnt go any further. Not much re-growth yet either, just some scaevula on the rocks and grass trees in the erstwhile swamp - but what an elegant picture they made.
Another day some of us cycled from Berrara to Sussex Inlet where we met up with the remainder. We investigated some local shops before meeting for a pleasant sojourn at a coffee shop. This is what you can do when youre retired.
The weather was so benevolent that the day we set off for a walk along the beach some of us just kept on going. Paul got as far as Bendalong because he went prepared with a day pack (and his eternal camera)!
There were a couple of canoes in the garage so they received a working out or two in the early evening on the calm lagoon waters is a most sensuous experience.
One afternoon John practised his water colour painting while Lyn swam in the shallow waters (she said it was warm) but I wimped beside John after a lazy bike ride around the locality.
Bill rose early so he could search for his beloved kangaroos on his way to buy. the newspapers, which were read religiously every day by many pairs of eyes. Overall, though, an enormous amount of relaxing was done. In no time at all it was time to retum home; I had expected Maureen and David Carter (the owners of our cottage) to join us on the Thursday night, but they didnt make it. However, who did Brian and I see just as we were driving towards the highway back to Sydney??? | Sydney Bushwalker
November 2002
Page 17
K to K in a Day Tony Crichton
The K to K in a day was held a week earlier this year (7” September) in an attempt to ensure the weather was not too hot. A group of 9 walkers were awoken by various alarmed wrist watches signaling the start of a long day. As we furiously packed up and got ready for the walk amidst a symphony of chatter and laughing we were about to shake a tent and wake up the sleeping walker when we made a surprising discovery. It wasnt one of us! Some poor soul had ended up in the middle of our Uni Rover Track campsite did they pick the wrong day or what!
We set off a bit after 6 am in cool conditions in the eerie pre-dawn light. We said goodbye to Gail and took off for Crafts Walls with Tony, Kay, Heike and Vicki. At Crafts Walls we refilled water bottles with Tonys endless supplies of water and consumed energy giving apple/blackcurrent juice and the odd chocolate biscuit. 1 had been feeling a touch off colour but Tony Maness well timed prompt to bump up the pace had the desired effort.
I decided to shuffle jog down hills and to walk steadily up them with a few short regrouping stops. We reached Cloudmaker by 8.45 am a superb time and left a message on Kays mobile phone. We were making very good progress through Dex's Creek and on towards Strongleg when Jenny took a fall and got a nasty, deep cut just below her nght knee. We removed bits of twig and leaf, added antiseptic and bandaged it up. Jenny was stoic and showed lots of guts to keep going all day without hindering the group in any way.
After a quick first lunch at the top we found Strongleg to be hot and we were all glad to get to the cool fresh waters of Kanangra Creek. After some delay we crossed th Coxs River and headed up the dreaded Yellow Pup, a long climb to our second lunch spot. The group spread out a bit here with some walkers going straight up and some taking.the longer track up. Ken had the misfortune of becoming dehydrated and , ow on energy levels. I then led the majority of the group whilst Maurice and Jim walked at a slightly slower pace with Ken. Ken showed excellent recuperative powers as the gastrolytes and -ghitose began to take effect.
All up we had lost a fair bit of time with injuries and illness, but we recovered for the first walkers to reach Taros Ladders before 5 pm. Trevor and 1 were greeted by Vickis happy voice and an energy-laden bear hug from Phil. It really lifts your spirits to see someone here as basically you are pretty well stuffed at this stage. At the cave Kay and Heike provided
tim-tams and drinks and their smiles and encouragement were like an energy drink. One last taste of Trevors magical Gu Energy Gel and we were off again.
Trevor and I and the amazing running deer Gim) finished at 6.30 pm. A good effort given the time lost. Another group finished at 7 pm with the second group finishing at 7.30 pm. That was a super effort by Ken to recover after dehydration and to finish so strongly.
Dinner was lots of fun at the Grandview Hotel with Phil getting a surprise birthday cake with candles (thanks Gail). Well done to all walkers and a huge thank you to our mighty support crew, especially Kay, Tony, Heike and Vickis 30 kms effort. Breakfast at the Conservation Hut was a welcome innovation bushwalkers really can eat!
A final thanks to all the leaders and support crew who have kept the K to K tradition going since 1989. Phil Newman has prepared a talisman (map section of Dexs Creek and a nicely written statement) which will be passed on from leader to leader of the K to K in the future.
Thanks everyone and see you next year.
Walkers: Tony Crichton (Leader), Jim Cryer, Trevor Kloeden, Peter Love, Mark Patteson, Jenny Paton, Maurice Smith, Ken Smith, Ian Thorpe
Support: Phil Newman, Tony Manes, Kay Chan, Heike Krausse, Vicki Garamy,Gail Crichton, Paul Haynes, Linda Mallet, Marianne Watts
Sydney Bridges and Bays Judy Jones On a magnificent long weekend Sunday morn, Judy Jones and her party of 9 left the Queen Victoria Blg and headed towards Anzac Bridge, through the back streets or Balmain, across the Iron Cove Bridge and on to Gladesville Bridge.
Many beautiful, historic homes and lovely gardens featured on this walk, not to mention the many opportunities to view our wonderful harbour from several vantage points west of the Harbour Bridge. A brief ferry trip (compliments of Sydney Ferries) took us from Woolwich pier to Greenwich followed by lunch at Manns Point before the party challenged their leader and decided to take the altemate route- up Berry Creek towards Wollstonecraft (thank you Leigh, a favourable decision).
The back streets of Waverton and Lavender Bay marked many historic sites including the homes of Henry Lawson and artist Brett Whiteley, then onto our home stretch, up those unnecessary steps (sorry Bill), across.the Harbour Bridge and concluding a very pleasant and enjoyable walk on top of the Glenmore Hotel.
Thanks to ail who joined me.
| Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 18 |
Mid - Week Walking Group: ere is a group of members with time available to participate in midweek activities. If you have time during the week or can take leave from work please join us. A regular newsletter provides details of short notice activities and the Summer Walks Programme gives details of scheduled midweek walks. Phone 9484 6636 for more information and to be added to our Mid-Week Walkers mailing list. Possible future activities are: e Extended walks at a leisurely pace covering a normal weekend walk in 3 instead of 2 days 3 to 4 day cottage hire at a beach or mountain _ Jocation eBoat hire on Myall Lakes or on the Hawkesbury. e Lord Howe, Norfolk or Pacific Island trip Contact _Bill Holland 9484 6636 billholl@hotkey.net.au
[ Advanced GPS Instructional _Sun Dec 8“ We will start with scanning and calibrating the local area map (Homsby), marking a route to walk, printing a copy (also a track profile) and downloading the route toa GPS. Then walk the route using the stored waypoints. After the walk we will upload the actual route to the computer
26” December _to 1* January :
Falls Creek area. Mixture of on and off-track walking. Kosciuszko NP
26“ December _to 1* January :
Mid-Week Day Walks
Tues 26th November (Additional to Programme) Pennant Hills - Hornsby An easy day walk on the Great Nth Walk track with lunch and swim at my house. Bill Holland 9484 6636
Thurs 5” December Circular Quay, Iron Cove, Hawthorne Canal, Tempe. Follow route of Sydneys unfinished canal.
Frid 27“ December: Sydney Harbour foreshores. Milsons point Berry island Tambourine Bay Hunters Hill. Urban bushland walk.
Tues 31* December: New Years Eve Walk Balmoral to Bradleys Head arriving near midnight to see spectacular fireworks.
Wed Ist. January: _Kuringai Chase NP
Short 10km walk from Bobbin Head then day out boating and aquatic activities. a
(a3 ec See Walks programme for more wiwt details.
Sunday 1* Dec. Beachside Bike Ride Maroubra Beach - La Perouse - Sans Souci and return. Combination road and cycleway. Bring swimming costumes and water.
Sunday 8” Dec: Wollongong area
Easy, no hills and cycle way nearly all of the way, Start at Thirroul proceed to Wollongong and return.
- Walks Over Christmas and New Year
The holiday season is an ideal time for extended walks in the high country or along the beaches. There is extended daylight in the evenings for enjoying the meal around the campfire. The extra days provides time to access the more difficult or remote areas. The SBW extended Christmas and New Year walks are shown below. Please refer to the Summer Walks Programme for details of leaders and contact numbers. Bogong High Plains Victoria Climb Mt Bogong the easy way. Medium 85 km
Round Mountain Thredbo. Classic Snowy Mountains walk across the Main Range with wildflowers &
beautiful alpine scenery. Medium 80 km 27 December _to 2 January:
Grounds, Mt Jagungal
27th December to lstJanuary: Capertee Valley
Kosciuszko NP Start Munyang Power Station & incorporate such h
ighlights as The Kerries, The Brassies, The Rolling
Homestead stay on great private property with day walks maybe one overnight).
3 January - 7“ January:
The Great South West Coastal Walk
Beach & cliff line track, rock platforms, seal colony, historic lighthouse, petrified forest. Beautiful seaside and lakeside campsites, lots of swimming (snorkelling) and surfing. Medium apprx 50 km { Sydney Bushwalker November 2002 Page 19
OF INTEREST TO NEW.MEMBERS
Hello from Heike, Last article I mentioned communication, well here is your chance.
There have been quite a few changes over the last couple of years and I have been encouraged to have a look at the new members (Prospectives) booklet and do a bit of a revamp/rewrite/edit.
I am not altering the scope of content but am planning a_ slightly different tone, less repetition/streamlining of information and some changes to the sequencing of the contents.
All you new members and full members…should have a copy. I am calling on you to have a re-read, (or a first read) and give me some suggestions as to what you might like to have altered, information you wished you had known about the club and its activities, or things you think could be removed entirely. Please however read it all cover to cover before submitting your suggestions.
Remember this booklet is a guide only not a comprehensive A-Z of the club so please be realistic! I will carefully consider all suggestions and seek further reference if required but there will be no guarantees that your suggestions will be included/excluded.
Also when out and about on some of the
walks I have noticed some really natty innovations and cost saving ideas for bushwalking gear. I would like do an article on these so, if youve had a brainwave others could benefit from please let me know… or better still write an article on it yourself!! NB: Suggestions to be in legible writing or typing and sent to the P.O Box number-(In the frontispiece of the booklet!!). Any emails sneakily accessed to my work will be instantly deleted.
Thank you.
=Heike Krauss Please welcome our new members: David Bell Chris Bennett Wendy Donald Hans Egefalk Jonathon Findlay Louise Hicks Chris Jackson, Victor Mahoney Brian Matthews Maree OMalley Jennifer Wilson
Striding on to full membership are: Byron Comninos Norman Joe , Alan Sauran.
Walks Recommended For New Members: The following walks are recommended to members new to walking or others desiring an easier pace. Please refer to the summer walks programme for more details
Easy Day Walks:
1*December BlueMtnsNP 6km Blackheath, Porters Pass, Centennial Pass Varied terrain, cliffs and views
26” December Kuringai Chase NP
Short 10km walk from Bobbin Head then day out boating and aquatic activities.
Tues _31* December: New Years Eve Walk Balmoral Middl Head Clifton Gardens Bradleys Head Balmoral. Start 8.30 pm reach Bradleys Head before midnight to see fireworks. A reliable torch ESSENTIAL
Wednesday Ist Jan: New Years Day
Bobbin Head: Short walk if tracks open then day out boating and aquatic activities. Approx 9.30 am to 6.30 pm bring tucker for optional later return. Easy 10 km
Easy Camping:
Christmas/New Year At Coolana
Join us at the Clubs property at Coolana in the beautiful Kangaroo Valley for relaxing days. Come for any, some or all of the days. Your choice of easy walks, quiet reading, swimming and canoeing. No need to phone.
Weekend Walking Gear for Hire
The club now has a small pool of
#5 weekend walking equipment
2, available for hire. The rates for weekly hire are: Weekend pack: $15 Sleeping bag: $15 (For hygiene reasons you must provide and use your own sleeping bag liner)
Sleeping mat: $5
Ground sheet: $2 Tent: $20 Complete kit $50
All items will require an equivalent cash deposit, refundable on return of the equipment.
Geoff McIntosh has volunteered to act as Gear
Custodian and would be hirers should telephone
Geoff on 9419 4619. Please be aware that our pool is presently still small, so give plenty of notice.
al Sydney Busbwalker
November 2002 Page 20
SOCIAL NOTES:
Please note that following a Management
committee decision the number of Club social
evening has been cut to one per month. The clubrooms will be closed on evenings not listed below:
November:
Wed 27“ Kimberley Region Photo Night Wayne Steele will present photos of his SBW trip in June 2002 to Prince Regent River area
December:
Wed 4” Committee Meeting All members are welcome to attend. As we no longer have monthly General Meetings this will be your
_Opportunity to participate in Club management and place questions before the committee
Wed '18“ SBW Christmas Party (7.00 pm) ; Please bring a plate of food to share. 1 | The club will supply wine, beer and soft drinks.
January:
Wed 8” Club Evening Picnic Held at southern end of Balmoral Beach from 6pm. BYO food and drinks. Fish and chips available nearby. Wed 15“ Committee Meeting ~ See above - Walks Planning Night Bring along your ideas, maps etc. This evening is for leaders to plan their walks and members to meet leaders and join in the planning discussions.
Any suggestions, ideas or questions about the social programme should be directed to the Social Secretary: Vicki Garamy 9349 2905 You can find this social program (and updates) on our web site www.sbw.org.au
mie Water Is Very Important ! agmew= Please remember that walking in “| = summer requires ample intake of ag water. In these drought conditions good quality water may be very scarce. Average consumption on day walk is between 3 ~ 4 litres . Much more if you are carrying a heavy week- end pack!
Skinny Dipping *
The temperature was soaring, the sun was beating down
Matt walked by the river on the other side of town
He had a look about, there was no one there but him
So he ripped off all his clothes and jumped in for a swim.
The water cooled his sweaty hide, he swam and splashed about
He felt a whole lot better and started to get out. He headed for his clothes and was reaching for his jocks,
When two young girls came walking from behind a pile of rocks.
Matt quickly grabbed his hat and covered up his front,
The two girls stood and giggled, so Matt became quite blunt
“If you two girls were ladies, you'd turn around” said Matt
“And if you Sir were a gentleman, you'd bow and raise your hat!”
* A poem by Murray Hartin From Heritage of Australian Verse
Monk ey Business
A new monk arrives at the monastery. He is assigned to help the other monks in copying the old texts by hand. He notices, however, - that they are copying
i copies, not the original books. So, the new monk goes to the head monk to ask him about this. He points out that if there were an error in the first copy, that error would be continued in all of the other copies.
The head monk says “We have been copying from the copies for centuries, but you make a good point, my son.” So, he goes down into the cellar with one of the copies to check it against the original. Hours later, nobody has seen him. So, one of the monks goes downstairs to look for him. He hears a sobbing coming from the back of the cellar, and finds the old monk leaning over one of the original books crying. He asks what's wrong. “The word is celebrate,” says the old monk. We have to use with skili what simple equipment we can carry on our backs to achieve shelter,
If you really want to get the best prepare food and have a night's rest? out of what you carry with you, Paddy Pallin, 1900-1991
then move up to Black Diamond, exclusive to Paddy Pallin.
~ Black Diamond
Black Diamend Moonlight Headtorch: Constantly frustrated with replacing your torch battery? Then the Moonlight is for you. WIth 4 ultra bright, eneray efficient LED bulbs, it pravides 70 hours of constant light. it weighs a mere 90g (without batteries) so you'll hardly know you're
carrying it. Ideal for night walking, cooking and reading.
Black Diamond Contour Trekking Pole: Trekking poles dont just = a improve your balance and reduce the strain on your lower limbs; they help re-distribute the load to your upper limbs as weil, meaning you can keep going for longer. The Contour, featured, is ideal for comfort over long periods of walking with an ergonomic 15 degree correction angle in the upper shaft and soft dual density hand grip. It also features a unique NEW adjustment system,
making these the most easily adjusted poles on the market.
Black Diamond Betamid Tent: When you want to go ultra-light or you need extra sterage space, the Betamid has you covered. This compact,
'oorless tent will go anywhere and pitches using a pair of trekking poles!
Weighing in at a fraction over 1kg, it sleeps two and stands strong
against the elements. (Optional, detachable tub floor is also available.)
Store locations: Sydney: 507 Kent Street Miranda: 527 Kingsway Parramatta: 74 Macquarie Street Katoomba: 166 Katoomba Street Also in Canberra and Jindabyne Website: www.paddypallin.com.au
Mail order: 1800 805 398