User Tools

Site Tools


197806

The Sydney Bushwalker

A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to the Sydney Bush Walkers, Box 4476, G.P.O. Sydney, N.S.W. 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.30 p.m. at the Wireless Institute building, 14 Atchison Street, St. Leonards. Enquiries concerning the Club should be referred to Mrs. Marcia Shappert - telephone 30-2028.

EditorHelen Gray, 209 Malton Road, Epping 2121. Tel. 86-6263.
Business ManagerBill Burke, 3 Coral Tree Drive, Carlingford, 2118. Tel. 871-1207
TypistMargaret Stichter. Tel. 635-5808.
Duplicator OperatorBob Duncan, Tel. 869-2691.

June, 1978

Contents.

Page
Editorial 2
Letter to the EditorOwen Marks 2
Owen Mark's letter to Mr. & Mrs. D. Smith 3
Letter to the EditorNancy-Bird Walton 4
Photography for EveryoneDavid Cotton 5 & 7
The Greater Blue Mountains National ParkAlex Colley8, 9 & 11
Social Notes & Message from Social SecretaryChristine Austin Page12
The Long Wait!Hans Stichter13 & 14
Coolana not RosternmereMarie Byles15 & 16
Photographic Adventure WorkshopDavid Cotton17
Walk Notes for JulySpiro Hajinakitas18 & 19
The May General Meeting 20

Advertisements.

Page
Paddy's Ad 6
Mountain Equipment Ad10

Editorial.

The Editor's lot is not a happy one. To begin with, who actually reads the magazine? The active walkers seem to - to see if their trips are mentioned? Those who submit articles do, to see if they get in print or their articles have been edited. The overseas, interstate or otherwise isolated members do, to keep in touch. Lastly, there are a handful who actually enjoy the magazine and read it every month. Who else does?

We send out an average of 290 magazines a month to our members, the bulk of whom do not actively walk, are seldom seen in the Clubrooms, and never submit articles, so probably don't read the magazine.

Submit articles - that's what I'm getting at. No-one is suggesting the less-actives drop out of the Club, but I am suggesting that those of you who do read this magazine must be doing something of interest worth writing about. There must be some prose writers, poets, illustrators amongst you with something worth publishing.

If - as I wrote two months ago - the magazine isn't filled, the Editor is left not with the job of editing, but of writing fill-in articles, of which this is one! And who is there to edit the editor's articles? One of the previous Editors found he had unintentionally caused offence after writing a hurried article to fill up a particular issue. With no-one to edit his article (his Co-Editor had virtually retired due to her pregnancy) it went straight into the magazine with unhappy results.

So, let's not rely on our Editors for articles. If there are plenty of articles etc. submitted, each magazine would be more varied in content and the Editor would have more time to read and sort articles.

Please write and write soon to save this Editor the usual scrounge and rush each month.


Letter To The Editor.

“Dear Helen,

What a mess. Your letter ruined my one day in Rome. I was so sure everything would be settled by now. I knew I should have apologised, but everyone said I had to go though the Solicitors etc. I wish I'd just gone ahead and called on Dick Smith and said sorry as I'd wanted to, or better still I should have sent him a copy when published as I'd meant to and then he might have realised it was in fun. But I didn't get around to it, what with getting ready for the trip etc. But you know all that.

Anyway, I still want to apologise although I haven't got my original article to refer to, or the Solicitor's letter. Please pass on the enclosed letter to Dick Smith. Better still, you might like to put it in the magazine because I ought to be apologising to the Club, too, for the trouble I've caused. Thanks for ringing Dick and putting my point of view.”


“Dear Mr. & Mrs. Smith,

I'm sorry that my article offended you, because it certainly wasn't intended to. I tried to be satirical, but I obviously didn't do it very well. I often write in that “rubbishing” style about trips and friends and did so again and thought nothing of it. I realise I should have been more thoughtful when writing about a non-member and his trip. If I hadn't written it in such a hurry and my Co-editor had seen it first she may have pointed out that I'd over-stepped the mark this time.

I gather from Helen Gray's letter to me that you have been hurt by my saying that “the atmosphere was of money-making” (to quote Helen, who I think is quoting me). She has pointed out the statement is misleading and on re-reading it I agree it is. I know the proceeds go to charity and I think that is commendable. I'm sorry I didn't make that point.

Helen has explained about the t-shirts. I didn't realise they had been previously ordered and were not actually being directly sold on the plane. If you announced that on the p.a. system I didn't hear (I may have been dozing at the time). Sorry. Also, I've been told the photos were being sold by request, not to make extra money. Helen has also told me I was wrong in suggesting the trip didn't reach its destination, because the trip was always described as an attempt to reach the Pole. It was the wind which prevented us from getting there. (Didn't I explain that in the article? I seem to remember saying how the horizon was a blur because of wind picking up ice particles.) Anyway, I apologise for writing, or implying, that the trip never intended to go as far as the South Pole.

I sincerely apologise for any other incorrect statements and for any hurt I may have caused you both. Once again, I can only say that I had no intention of offending you or damaging your reputation. I am sorry if the article was in bad taste and I certainly won't be publishing similar articles again.

Yours sincerely,

Owen Marks.”


Letter To The Editor.

3rd April, 1978

“Dear Sir,

I am surprised that the “Sydney Bush Walker” would publish such a cruel and misleading article by a disgruntled malcontent concerning Dick Smith's Antarctic Flights.

Far from being a commercial enterprise, every penny profit went to Charity and the Wild Life Conservation alone, is thirty thousand dollars better off.

We were given the opportunity to order additional maps and 't' shirts by letter before the flight so Pip Smith was handing out those already ordered. Not trying to “get rid of them” as your correspondent suggests.

Throughout the flight Dick relayed everything he heard over the public address system so that we too could all know what was going on. He did this only because of many requests from earlier flights. He also saved anyone the embarrassment of asking someone, stuck to a window, to remember there were others who also wanted to see. If his enthusiasm offended your griper that's just too bad. I'd rather have over enthusiasm than none at all!

The anonymous writer of your article incorrectly states that the Captain was chatting about manoeuvres over McMurdo. This was in fact Dick Smith as the captain was too busy flying the giant plane at 1500 ft to be making announcements.

Incidentally, Macquarie Island was seen clearly by anyone who wanted to see it, including the ship in the harbour, and Harry Black (Veteran leader of four expeditions) said he had never seen it so clearly.

Dick and Pip Smith are hard working, honest and very good people and because of Dick's keen interest and enthusiasm gave hundreds of people an opportunity to see the Antarctic which they could never have done otherwise. (Yes - your anonymous writer would probably not have ever had the chance to see Antarctica if Dick Smith had not organised the flights). Also Dick created a new interest in a little known continent so close and vital to us.

For someone who last year gave up his valuable time to be your guest and address you, publication of this article is a poor thank you.

Yours sincerely,

Nancy-Bird Walton”


David Cotton's Note Book - Photography For Everyone.

Recently I was asked, 'What has Photography got to do with bushwalking?' This is a question that I am unable to answer. If I was asked 'What has photography got in common with bushwalking?', the answer would be simple - 'happiness'. If the meaning of photography were to include home photographic processing, I would add “It would promote and help develop creativity, individuality, personality and character”.

To many people photography is little more than shooting off a couple of dozen snapshots each year. I feel that this is one of the greatest tragedies of our time when we consider how fast our children, and the children around us seem to grow up. It must come as a great shock to many older people when they realise that the only records that they have of their children growing up are a few hundred rather poor quality snapshots together with a small handful of school photos and general batch of wedding photos. Surely we can do better than this, after all these must be the happiest years of our lives.

Another question I am frequently asked is 'What sort of camera should I buy for my child?' The question implies that the camera will be for the specific use of the one person and so therefore, logically, should be relatively inexpensive. Basically, any sort of equipment for a child or young person to use should utilise a film size that will enable and encourage home processing, as this is really half the fun and enjoyment of photography. Nothing will dampen the keenest enthusiasm quicker than an item of equipment that cannot offer the scope of creative advancement or adventure. It would be quite ridiculous to purchase a more expensive camera just for the use of the one young person, especially if the sudden interest in photography turns out to be just a passing fad.

I feel that the best answer to the above question would be to consider the purchase of reasonable camera that the whole family could use. The ideal type of camera to choose for this situation would be a basic 35 mm. single lens reflex. The basic 35 mm. S.L.R. with through-the-lens viewing and light metering, together with lens interchangeability, represents excellent value for money. They are extremely simple to use, and together with the correct film type and speed for the job are incredibly versatile pieces of equipment.

A basic 35 mm. S.L.R. camera will cost around $140 plus or minus $20. Before considering purchasing a new camera it would be wise to have a look around and see what cameras friends and relatives have in their cupboards. The number of really good 35 mm. S.L.R. cameras that people have and do not use is absolutely mind-boggling. Many people are under a false impression that the more expensive the camera, the better the photo. This idea is often quite wrong as a camera is only a tool, often the opposite effect is achieved, as a good camera will often highlight the users lack of technique.

Black and white photography and home processing, because of their simplicity and low cost (both very important factors for our younger photographers), offer an extremely valuable medium for promoting improvement of individual style and technique and so encouraging a fresh and creative approach to all facets of photography.

Photographic Adventure Workshops are a group involvement or happening, they are great fun and everyone is welcome to attend whether experienced in photography or not. Any young people wishing to attend and have not got transport, and any 'big' people who can help with transport (and chaperoning, if necessary) for any young people, please see me in the Clubrooms as soon as possible, or write me a note, address C/- P.O. Box 66, Engadine, N.S.W. 2233.


Paddymade.

Lightweight bushwalking and camping gear.

H Frame Packs - the Mountaineer De-Luxe.

This capacious pack can comfortably carry 70 lbs or more. The bag is made from tough lightweight terylene/cotton, proofed fabric with special P.V.C. reinforced base. Bag size 20“ x 17” x 9“ and has proofed nylon extension throat complete with double draw cord for easy positive closure. The large protective flap has full sized zip pocket of waterproof nylon. It has liberal sized outside pocket. The whole bag is quickly and easily detached from the frame to form a 3' sleeping bag cover for cold, wet conditions. The frame is specially designed for comfortable load carrying with complete nylon web back harness and chrome tanned leather shoulder straps and three inch breeching strap for long hard wear. Weight 6lbs.

Bunyip Rucksack.

This 'shaped' rucksack is excellent for children. Usefull day pack. Weight 14 ozs.

Senior Rucksack.

A single pocket, shaped rucksack. Suitable for overnight camping. Weight 1 1/2 lbs.

Bushman Rucksack.

Has sewn-in curved bottom for extra comfort in carrying. Will hold 30 lbs. 2 pocket model 1 1/4 lbs. 3 pocket model 1 1/2 lbs.

Pioneer Rucksack.

Extra large bag with four external pockets and will carry about 40 lbs of camp gear. Weight 2 1/4 lbs.

Kiandra Model.

Hooded bag. Extra well filled. Very compact. Approx 3 3/4 lbs.

Hotham Model.

Super warm box quilted. Added leg room. Approx 4 1/2 lbs.

Superlight Model.

Half the weight and packed size of regular bags. 9” x 5 1/2“ dia. 2 lbs.

Everything for the bushwalker, from blankets and air mattresses, stretchers, boots, compasses, maps, books, stoves and lamps to cooking ware and freeze dried and dehydrated foods.

Paddy Pallin

69 Liverpool St. Sydney. 26-2686 61-7215


Kashmir Trek August - Sept. 1978.

A trip to Kashmir is being organised by Heather Roy of N.P.A. from August 7th to September let, 1978. It will consist of trekking through valleys with lakes and climbing to about 13,000'.

Cost: $1,565 with air fare, if there are 15 or more people, and little more if less than 15.

If interested contact Heather Roy - 411-1472.


Himalayan Trek - October, 1978.

To Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal with optional climb of Tent Peak.

I am looking for people to join me on a trek into the Annapurna Sanctuary, Nepal. The Annapurna Sanctuary is formed by a ring of mountains, four of which are over 24,000' above sea level. The approach march from Pokhara to the Sanctuary will take 7 days. After reaching the sanctuary the group will split into two groups; experienced climbers and “trekkers” i.e. non-climbers.

I welcome enquiries from climbers with snow and ice experience and also from non-climbers who may like to trek to the sanctuary and explore it.

Cost: Without air fare $A460.

Dates: Tentatively, depart Sydney/Wellington/Christchurch etc. on Sat. October 21, return Wednesday November 15.

Enquiries to: Christopher Fisher, Lot 16, Linden Crescent, Cranebrook, N.S.W. 2750.


The Greater Blue Mountains National Park.

by Alex Colley

Before the advent of surfing, motoring and skiing the Blue Mountains were the State's main tourist centre, being near the large population of the central coast and easily accessible by rail. Tourism was almost entirely confined to the mountain towns and Jenolan Caves. Most of the remainder was little known until after the first world war, when bushwalking commenced. The trail breakers in the Southern Blue Mountains were the aptly named “Mountain Trails Club”, which fostered the formation of the S.B.W. It was the Secretary of this Club, Myles J. Dunphy (now O.B.E.) who formulated a plan for a Greater Blue Mountains National Park, which was the subject of a special issue of the Katoomba Daily in August, 1934. Myles was the Vice President of the S.B.W. at the time.

His proposal embraced nearly all the undeveloped land in the Blue Mountains, all the way from Mounts Durambang and Boonbourwa in the north to Wanganderry and Wombeyan Caves in the South.

The mountains contained then, as now, two of the largest primitive areas in the State, one north and one south of the Western line. Although the motor car has greatly extended the range of country easily accessible to walkers, the mountains remain the most accessible, the most scenic, and most popular walking country in the State. About 1938 the Club adopted the proposed park as its principal conservation objective. The Club has supported the proposal when opportunity offered and many of its members have worked for it as members or officials of other conservation bodies.

Important though it is that facilities should be available for walkers, as they are for motorists, surfers, cricketers, footballers and others seeking recreation, the case for preserving the mountains goes far beyond this. In a study of wilderness published last year, the Dept. of Geography, University of New England, found there were only 20 wilderness areas in the N.S.W. coast and tablelands, covering in all about 1 million hectares, or 1.3% of the area of the State. The two largest areas were the Colo/Hunter (235,000 ha) and Kanangra (77,500 ha). These areas are not only near the State's population centre, but are within two hours travel time of most of the State's population. Once developed these areas will never return to wilderness. Their scenic attraction will be downgraded together with their recreational value and their scientific value as species habitat.

Two of the principal development threats to the Kanangra wilderness - the quarrying of Mount Armour (Coolong Caves) and the proposed pine plantation on the Boyd, have been countered. We didn't succeed in preventing the power line along the Cox Valley, but we did succeed in stopping the construction of the gas pipe line through the Wollongambe and, very recently, the mining of shale on the Culoul Range. Shortly after the Premier was flown over the whole proposed park area by Dick Smith (accompanied by Bruce Vote of the Federation) and taken on a tour through the Southern Blue Mountains, he announced the addition of 98,000 ha to the Blue Mountains and Kanangra Boyd National Park. A substantial part of the southern Blue Mountains has therefore been saved from development. The great northern wilderness, however, is unprotected.

In June, 1975, the Colong Committee, having saved Kanangra-Boyd, turned its attention to the Border Ranges and the Blue Mountains, and, at the end of 1976, the National Parks Association devoted a special 44 page issue of its Journal, complete with Henry Gold photographs and maps, to the Greater Blue Mountains National Park proposal. The updated proposal was essentially Myles Dunphy's original plan, but included the Hunter National Park in the north - a recently announced addition to the parks system. About this time the Colo Committee, devoted to the preservation of the northern Blue Mountains, came into being, and attracted a great deal of support.

Wilderness conservationists have learned by experience that although wilderness remains so because it is the poorest and least productive land, all wilderness areas outside national parks (and even some within) are subject to development threats. Michael Bell and Associates have recently completed a case study of the northern Blue Mountains entitled “Wilderness in Danger”, in which the main threats are ,depicted in a series of maps. The maps show coal and associated services, settlement holdings, forestry, and off-road vehicles and littering. The whole tableau of exploitation is brought together in a composite threats map. “Coal and Associated Services” includes a slurry pipe line from the Newnes Coal Mine straight across the wilderness towards Newcastle and a dam on the Colo with pipeline and access road. A power line from Wallerawang to Grassy Hill is also a possibility. Roads, with their potential for littering, shooting, timber getting and other destructive activities, penetrate far into the wilderness, and two actually cross it.

There can be no doubt that, unless a strong body of public opinion is built up to counter the various development interests, this great wilderness will go the way of most of the rest. What can members do to help save it. Financial support of the Federation, which is working enthusiastically for the cause, or for the Colong Committee, which has taken a leading part in the campaign for the park, are very effective means of support and I recommend response to the appeal of the Colo Committee in its pamphlet “Save the Colo Wilderness”, which is as follows:

“Is the Colo to become the Lake Pedder of N.S.W.?”

It will if we let it! The loss of the largest remaining wilderness in N.S.W., the longest cleanest river system near Sydney and our most spectacular gorge country is imminent. Don't let damming, mining, pollution, logging and development ruin the Colo. We must act now.

How You Can Help

1. Contact your local member and demand that this outstanding wilderness be conserved now.

2. Write directly to the Premier, Mr. N.K. Wran, and to Mr. P. Landa, Minister for Planning and Environment, c/- Parliament House, Sydney, asking for a major Wilderness National Park to be dedicated, encompassing the Colo/Hunter Wilderness.

3. Write to Mr. Pat Hills, Minister of Mines, regarding the Electricity commission's plans and mining development and ask why he condones destruction of this Wilderness.

4. Organise talks for the Colo Committee in the community on the value of Wilderness near Sydney.

5. Distribute posters and leaflets.

6. Support the Colo Committee and subscribe to our Newsletter. Contact and join us or support us through a donation. Tax deductible donations can be made through the Australian Conservation Foundation. Cheques should be made out to the A.C.F. with a note attached “for use with Colo Committee”.*

* Published by the Colo Committee, C/- Total Environment Centre, 18 Argyle Street, The Rocks, Sydney, 2000, or, c/- The Secretary, 267 Eastern Valley Way, Middle Cove, 2068 (407-1209).


Missing Friend.

by Gordon Lee

O'er well I knew him not
I met him on the track
His smiling countenance
And anecdotal reminisce
Lightened the way
Brightened the day
For us

He has passed through the sunset
And ne'er will see
The morning rise
His face - a memory
But for him we will not mourn
For we were born
To die

And if there is a land
Beyond our ken
Then there in bushland
On ridge, in glen
Jack will walk a track
At rest, he'll light the fire
And brew the inevitable
Tea

Written on learning of the sudden death of Jack Perry, an older member of the S.B.W.


Social Notes.

by Christine Austin

First of all, I apologise for the lack of social notes in the magazine. I did write them, but they became mislaid.

July 19 - David Cotton has spent another year clicking that camera of his and has kindly offered to present us with another exhibition on July 19. Wine and other drinks will not be supplied, but if you wish to imbibe, please bring a bottle.

July 26 - Jim Brown is showing some of his slides this night. If you haven't been walking lately and wish to be spurred into action, come and see some of Jim's campsite pictures and other nostalgic scenes!


Message From The Social Secretary.

I plan to have a 'Characters I Have Known' night in September. When this was discussed on a recent walk, cameras immediately clicked into action. Please start looking through your old slides and find some amusing (but not libellous) slides of your friends.

Finally, thank you to all those people, like Jim and David, who come up to me and offer to put something on the social programme or suggest something which might be of interest. Like anybody else, I sometimes run out of ideas and I'm always glad to hear those of somebody else.


Obituary.

Last month was a sad one for the Club, with the loss of two dear members.

Dorothy Hasluck.

Dorothy joined the Club in 1937 and was an active walker for many years. In later years she always remained interested in the club and was last seen by members at the Reunion at Coolana last year. Dorothy died, aged 80, peacefully in her sleep while staying with Ray Page at Jamberoo, at a place she dearly loved and with her best friends.

Jack Perry.

Jack died in Victoria on April 27, whilst visiting his family, aged 63, of heart failure. Jack has been a member for at least 30 years and was a keen walker and leader of trips right up to his death. (He arrived at the last Reunion on his bike, with his dog riding in the basket.) Jack will be remembered by many for his tales from his shearing days.


The Long Wait!

by Hans Stichter

It was a chilly June weekend in 1975 and we were camped on Mt. Jenolan in the upper Blue Mountains. Terry Norris, Magdy Hammad and I were sitting around the small fire, enjoying a body-warming brew when Terry remarked “That's one trip I plan to do at a future date - over Mt. Jenolan via Queahgong Buttress, Mt. Queahgong, Mt. Jenolan and back down to the Cox via Gasper Buttress.”

Here we were nearly three years later with the idea of doing that trip now a reality.

Many last minute phone calls between our leader Terry Norris and other possible starters resulted in a count of 5; Terry Norris, Magdy Hamad, Diana Lynn, Joe Marton and myself.

It was to be a three day trip, our party members either taking a flexi-day or a “sickle” (strange! I thought bushwalkers were a healthy, hardy lot) on the Friday.

“9.00 a.m. at Carlons” was the message, necessitating a 6.45 a.m. start from Parramatta. A 1/2 hour wait for Magdy caused us to think perhaps some misfortune had befallen our friend, before the trip had even started. A quick drive to his unit and a sleepy, red-eyed party member answered the door, muttering “What time is it? Sorry, slept in, 2.00 a.m. to bed.” After a five minute breakfast and ten minutes spent packing his rucksack we were on our way. A last minute check was made to ensure that his supply of Lebanese bread, molasses and camera were included in his pack.

It was approximately 10.15 a.m. when we arrived at Carlons, with Joe arriving 15 minutes later, who also had been unavoidably delayed.

Today we were to walk down Breakfast Creek and camp on the Cox's river somewhere below Jenolan Buttress. Saturday would include a round trip, climbing Queahgong Buttress, which is 3,200'. On Sunday we would return home either over the Wild Dog mountains or by Breakfast Creek.

The erosion and destruction caused by the April floods is quite noticeable along Breakfast Creek and the Cox. Green grassy flats are rapidly disappearing and many trees lining the usually peaceful river have been brought down or are in danger of coming down. Whilst nature can act in strange ways, it also works in cycles and perhaps in many years to come it will again be the river it once was. Jim Brown made the comment to me that he has seen this happen before and that it may take 10 years or more to rejuvenate itself.

As has been proven on many occasions, small parties can cover considerable distances as compared to larger groups. Our group was to be no exception, all five being able to make quick progress without really exerting themselves. River crossings, however, were fairly slow. The majority of the group preferred dry socks and sandshoes and where possible crossed the slippery rocks barefooted.

Our campsite was made beside an unnamed creek where fresh water was found a few hundred yards upstream. We all settled into a hearty meal that night, most of us having carried steak and fresh food for our Friday night feast. Our campfire continued to burn endlessly that night whilst we reminisced of past walks and of various people we had met on the track.

Gazing at a clear sky at night with only the sound of water cascading over rocks and of the heat of the fire warming one's limbs is, to me, an experience that all walkers look forward to. Perhaps it is in such an environment that a person can feel himself as both part of that group and as part of the nature that surrounds him.

We decided that a 7.00 a.m. start would be necessary the following morning. I didn't think it would be possible for everyone to be up and away by this early hour, remembering that it would still be dark at 6.30 a.m. Gradually we departed to our tents and to the comfort of our sleeping bags, with only the occasional flicker of the fire being seen through the walls of the tent. Morning did see us up at 6.00 a.m. and surprisingly, walking at 7.05 a.m. As a safety precaution each of us carried our sleeping bags and some emergency rations. Due to the distance to be covered and the very short days we took no chances in case we would have to bivouac away from the tents.

Our climb was to commence from Guouogang Brook, this being our first and last water supply for the day. With water bottles full, we proceeded upwards, all 3,000' of it. I often wonder if others share the thoughts that pass through my mind when climbing such mountains - “What am I doing here?” or “How I would love a cold beer or even a milkshake.” Would the 4 - 5 hours we spent that day climbing be worth the physical exertion each of us was putting into the climb?

The views on the way up and from Mt. Jenolan are spectacular. To me, the mountains have moods and it is these moods which can change from day to day, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. One can experience this in such an area, particularly in winter months, where the sunrises and sunsets can depict the mountains in their own special way.

Someone passed the remark “3 1/2 hours of daylight left” and with that comment we made our way down. We made extremely good progress with few stops. The weather conditions for our climb up Queahgong Buttress were ideal - very cool temperatures with a clear, cloudless sky. We all agreed that the same climb wouldn't be attempted by any of us in summer months, due to the lack of water. We did manage to return to our tents on sunset, with each of us retiring for a very early night.

Sunday was a particularly lazy day, the party choosing to return to Carlons the way we had come in.

Once again, the thought passed through my mind that it is the people who can “make” the weekend. We were fortunate for we had the group, combined with a magnificent walking area.

A “stop-over” at Youngs at Katoomba ended a weekend which had in fact begun in June, 1975.

It had been worth the long wait!


Coolana not Rosternmere.

by Marie Byles

It was New Year's Day and my father had taken his three little children a long walk to Rosternmere in England. We had learned to “tramp” almost as soon as we could toddle. And now we had reached Rosternmere. There it lay below us, its placid waters cradled in low wooded hills. But we might go no further. Father explained to us that it was private property and that we could not go down to those peaceful waters nor walk in those lovely woods. Probably, the owner was entertaining his friends in one of “England's stately homes” nearby, with good wood and coal fires on this raw January day.

Father sat us on a fence overlooking the lake and told us to say after him “The earth is the Lord's, and the fullness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. Down with the selfish wicked landowners!”

This teaching in early childhood has lingered in my memory for ever after.

When my father brought his family to Australia he soon became a “wicked landowner” himself, but not a selfish one for he never prevented people from wandering over his land. And when I bought my own land and built my tiny cottage, it never entered my head to stop people from going through the land. Indeed, my brother and I devised and erected the following notice for the double gate “Private land. Bushlovers Welcome, but please do not injure anything. Bush is precious.”

When the property of “Ahimsa”, as I called it, was transferred to the National Trust it was the obvious thing to keep the notice as it was, merely deleting the words “Private Land” and substituting “A Property of the National Trust of Australia”. I know people come through the land because I hear the click of the gate, but only once in those forty years have I found the gate left open. I might also mention that a water tap is provided for picnickers. I got the idea from Paddy Pallin who told me of someone in England who provided a “Tap for Wayfarers”. The tap here has been much used and is greatly appreciated.

A few weeks ago Dot Butler took me to “Coolana”. I was thrilled with the wonderful scenery, the glorious rocks, the deep gorges and what I have called “Dot's Hut”. It seems incredible that this lovely shelter shed, open to the view in front and the fresh air, should have been built with Dot's inspiration and the volunteer labour of the Sydney Bushwalkers, including the piping of water from a nearby stream and the fixing of a tap - only for cold water at present, but goodness knows what depths of luxurious living it may not lead to!

But almost the best thing about the site of “Coolana” is that on the new strip of leasehold recently acquired (with the help of George Davidson, the Surveyor) is ample car parking space, not only for bushwalkers, but for members of the public. I suggest that for the benefit of the public generally, two rough tables and benches should be built, and that a track should be made to the Lookout and pools of clear drinking water, with a suitable notice “To Drinking Water and Lookout”. I can almost hear the gurgles of laughter of the children as they paddle in the lower pools. (It might be wise to fence off the drinking water pool!)

On the car track at the parking area I suggest putting up a notice welcoming bushlovers, similar to that at “Ahimsa”. If you welcome people and extend friendship, they in turn will love the bushwalking movement.

Knowing human weakness, I also suggest digging a deep pit for rubbish and label it for this. One can hardly expect the Council to empty rubbish bins as they do near “Ahimsa”, nor is the public sufficiently trained to take rubbish home as bushwalkers do. Before his death, my brother had started getting some firm interested in providing rubbish bags for every car on the roads. I do not know what happened to his efforts.

The S.B.W. are very wise to keep the gate locked and to provide only a very narrow footway in.

My very best wishes go to “Coolana”. It provides a service to bushwalkers and also to bushlovers. Even the Dungala Club members can make use of it, I think.


Annual Subscriptions.

These are now due and payable, and are as follows:-

  • Ordinary member $10
  • Married couple $12
  • Full time student member $ 6
  • Non-active member. $ 2

Subscription includes the magazine, posted free to all full members. Magazine subscription for others (posted) $4.00.


Photographic Adventure Workshop - Glenburnie Orchard, Darkes Forest.

I have Photographic Adventure Workshops programmed for Saturday and Sunday 22nd and 23rd and on Saturday and Sunday 29th and 30th July, 1978. Come along on any day or on all of them. Everyone, especially children, are welcome to attend, whether experienced in photography or not.

The programme for each day will be basically similar and run on a loosely continuous process, the work being covered will be basic simple black and white print making and enlarging techniques, advanced enlarging techniques, black and white film processing and towards the end of each day, the “Ilfo-speed” system of print making will be covered.

On both Saturday evenings a campfire barbeque will be held and for those interested a short bushwalk on both Sundays can be arranged. There is always something of interest going on here at Darkes Forest, beehives to inspect (plenty of fresh honeycomb to chew) and I will have a couple of two metre dinghys under construction. Pruning will be under way in the orchard using pneumatic pruning equipment.

Persons wishing to attend these Photographic Adventure Workshops sessions should bring along some of their favourite black and white negatives or take a roll of black and white film with them on their next bushwalk. Film should be processed prior to the Workshop, whilst we will be covering black and white film processing, it is best to have some processed film as it is easier to start off on print work first. People with sensitive hands should bring along a pair of rubber gloves.

Cost, this will vary with the individual depending on the amount of work done, a basic rate to cover the cost of material will be worked out, this will be about 12 cents for each 120 mm x 165 mm print and 22 cents for each 254 mm x 203 mm print. “Ilfo-speed” prints will be 3-4 cents extra each. Film, approx. 20 exposures 40 cents per roll and developing 15 cents per roll.

How to get to Darkes Forest: Travel south along the Princes Highway through Waterfall, follow the old Highway (do not take the Expressway). The turn off to Darkes Forest is about 15 km. south of Waterfall or about 6 km. south of the Stanwell Park turn off. Glenburnie Orchard is the first farm on the right hand side, 3 km west of the Highway on the Darkes Forest Road.

See David in Clubrooms for transport.


Rod Peters has a promotion and move to Canberra. We know Rod will still be seen on walks and his skiing friends will be calling in for coffee and floor space on Friday nights.


Walk Notes For July.

by Spiro Hajinakitas

June 30, July 1,2 (*)Airly: Peter Miller and John Redfern leading an interesting 2 day test walk in the Airly area. The Genowlan Mountain climb to be optional. Good camp sites, spectacular scenery and historic mining sights. Private transport, about 3/4 hour drive out from Lithgow. Phone: Peter 922-4016 (H) or John 808-1702 (H).
June 30, July 1,2 (*)Kanangra: with David Rutherford a 2 day test walk in the famous Kanangra region. Cars to Kanangra, past Jenolan Caves, good ridge walking, some climbing, 30 km. of beautiful mountain scenery. David's phone 406-4511(H).
July 2Royal National Park: an easy 11 km. day trip - Waterfall - Kingfisher Creek - Myuna Creek - Waterfall. Some creek and track walking. Train from Central 8.46 a.m. Leader - Bill Hall 57-5145 (H).
July 2Royal National Park: Another easy day walk, pleasant coast and mountain views. Stanwell Park - Zig Zag Track - Mt. Mitchell - Stanwell Park. 8.46 a.m. train (C). Leader - Ann Morgan (042)94-1376(H).
July 7,8,9 (*)Kanangra: Colboyd Ridge - Kowmung River - Bullhead Range. 25 km. A medium 2 day test walk with time to spare to enjoy the scenery. Some climbing, leader Phill Lorner 747-2299 (B).
July 7,8,9 (++)Ettrema/Bundundah: Inland from Nowra. Tim Gully - Sparkes Falls - Peach Tree Canal - Specimen Hill - Wineglass Tor - Touga West - Shoalhaven River - Touga Creek - Tullyangel Clearing. A very hard 2 day walk for fit walkers only. Leader Peter Harris 888-7316 (H).
July 9 (*)Grose River: Mt. Hay - Grose River - Y Break. A medium 14 km. day test walk in the beautiful Grose Valley north-east of Leura. Private transport. Patrick McBride 635-9830 (H) or 51-034 (B).
July 9Tunks Creek: Hornsby area. Easy day walk, quite close to Sydney. Leader John Noble 84-4497 (H).
July 14,15,16North Budawangs: Yadboro Flat - Clyde River - Darri Pass - Monolith Valley - Yadboro Creek. Inland about 45 km. from Milton. A Medium 40 km. 2 day walk, interesting rock formations, open clear plateaus, gentle climbing, superb vistas. Leader Jim Vatiliotis 534-3865 (H).
July 15,16Blue Gum Forest: Neates Glen - Grand Canyon - Blue Gum Forest - Pierce's Pass. A day and a half walk through a variety of scenery, majestic tall blue gums, coal green rain forests, excellent camp site. Leader - Snow Brown 451-7644.
July 16Glenwood to Springbrook: Glenbrook - Duck Hole - Glenbrook Creek - Sassafras Gully - Springwood. Train 8.10 a.m. ticket to Springwood. A medium 15 km. through beautiful lower Blue Mountains country. Leader Jim Brown 81-2675.
July 16 (*) Colo River: Mt. Townsend - Colo River - Bob Turner's track. A medium 14 km. test walk. Unspoilt spectacular river scenery. Leader Oliver Crawford 44-1685 (H)
July 21,22,23 (*) Nattai River: Not far from Picton. Starlight's trail - Nattai River - Rocky Waterhole Creek. A medium 2 day test walk in true bushwalking atmosphere. Glorious river and deep valley views, some rock hopping. Leader Steve Tompkins 929-8166 (B).
July 22,23Darkes Forest: South of Sydney near Helensburgh. David Cotton's photographic adventure workshop. Both or either Sat./Sun. See details this issue magazine.
July 23Berowra: Cowan Creek - Apple Tree Bay - Mt. Kuringai. An easy 14 km. day walk. Glorious coastal scenery. Leader Neil Brown (042) 94-1376.
July 23Wondabyne: Kariong Ridge - Pindar Cave. An easy 10 km. in the most scenic Hawkesbury River region. Leader Margaret Reid 94-2630 (H).
July 28,29,30 (*)Bungonia Lookdown: Mt. Ayre - Hermits Spur - Tolwong Mine - The Block Up - Shoalhaven River. About 20 km. south of Marulan (near Goulburn). A medium 35 km. 2 day test walk, good ridge and river walking, some climbing, wonderful scenery. Leader Steve Knightly 48-3747 (H).
July 29,30Darkes Forest: David Cotton's repeat Photographic workshop. See above.
July 30Glenbrook Creek: Campfire Creek - Euroka Clearing - Mt. Portal - Glenbrook. A medium popular day 18 km. walk in the Blue Labrynth. - Good lunch spot. Train 8.10 a.m. (C). Leader John Holley - contact in club.
July 30Waterfall: King Bishop Creek - Myuna Creek - Waterfall. In the Royal National Park, south of Sydney. A medium 12 km. day walk, good creek and track walking. Train 8.20 (E) Leader Meryl Watman 570-1831(H).

Get well soon.

Ray Page of Jamberoo recently underwent major surgery. We hear that the operation was successful and Ray has already been moved from Wollongong Hospital to Kiama to convalesce.

We wish Ray a speedy recovery.


The May General Meeting.

by Barry Wallace

There were about 23 members present at 8.30 p m. when the President gonged the gong and called the May General Meeting to order. New Members for welcome were; Frank Dare, Don Cornell, Bob Parkes, Peter Christian and last and somewhat least by virtue of his non-appearance, that total stranger Craig Austin.

The reading and signature of the minutes of the previous meeting evoked neither comment nor business arising. Correspondence out comprised letters to new members and a letter to Wild Australia answering a query raised regarding the new projector. Correspondence in included information from Federation on a summons issued by a Mr. Doyle over our opposition to an application for mining rights before a Wardens' Court. There were also quite a few subscriptions and a letter re developments proposed for South-West Tasmania.

The Treasurer's report indicated a starting balance of $1,158.53, income of $718.50, outgoing payments of $481.80 and a final balance of $1,395.14.

Walks reports indicated a fair crop of successful walks with Rod Peters trip for 13-16 April being cancelled. The Coolana working bee of 14-16 April was reported to have completed erection of one fireplace (many thanks to Bert Millier for the bricklaying job), painting the hut and carrying out drainage works around the hut. John Fox's Saturday start test walk had 4 members and 1 prospective. Bill Hall's Heathcote Woronora River Sunday walk had 14 people out on a cloudy but fine day. The following weekend, Anzac weekend, saw David Rostron lead a party of about 15 souls into the Kybian Range around Mother Walla. On that same weekend Neil Brown had 12 prospectives and 8 “others” down around Bluegum on the 23rd in fine weather. Roy Braithwaite led some 22 bodies, including a stray from a C.B.C. walk, down from Lilyvale to Bundeena to catch the 5.30 ferry. On the weekend of 28, 29 & 30 April, Len Newland led a walk from the much flood-damaged Newnes with 2 members and 2 prospectives.

The Glen Davis side of Pipeline Pass provided its fair share of problems and they returned on the Monday. Errol Sheedy had 8 members and 5 prospectives on the Sunday walk, although there was a report of a breakaway group of 17 people arriving late in the trip. Pat McBride's Kanangra to Katoomba walk is reported to have had a record number of morning and afternoon teas, but we don't know how many starters. It is not clear whether Peter Harris Ettremah trip went or not - perhaps they took one of his “soft options” and there were no survivors. David Ingram had 23 members, 5 prospectives and 1 visitor on the Sunday walk from Waterfall to Heathcote. The area was reported bushfire damaged and scratchy. John Fox's map instructional attracted 2 members and 4 prospectives and completed the walks report as well.

The Federation report brought news of the writs mentioned earlier in the article. The recent Search and Rescue exercise was reported as successful and articles are sought for the publication “Out and About”. Federation plan to produce a pamphlet explaining themselves.

General Business bought news of the passing of an early member - Dorothy Hasluck.

A motion was passed to write to Bert Willier thanking him for his work on the fireplace at Coolana.

After some further discussion and a motion concerning certain legal matters, the meeting closed at 9.55 p.m.


Wanted.

Tent, 2 man, wall, Japara - tan preferred. Gladys Roberts 92-5574 (H).


Another pikelet.

On Friday 26th May, 1978, Dot Pike gave birth to a second daughter, Heather. Congratulations Dot and Allan.


Change to Walks Programme.

My walk to Bluegum Forest programmed for Sunday 27th August, 1978 will now be on Sunday 13th August, 1978. The route is still not yet finalised, but we will go to Bluegum Forest from the south via The Pinnacles and Du Faur's Head.

Peter Scandrett


The dinner before the third Wednesday meeting will be at the Casa Nostra at 6.30 p.m. Peter Miller 922-4016.


197806.txt · Last modified: 2017/02/07 14:31 by tyreless

Donate Powered by PHP Valid HTML5 Valid CSS Driven by DokuWiki