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-THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER is a monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Inc, PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565. To advertise in this magazine, please contact the Business Manager. +**THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER** is a monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Inc, PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565. 
-Editor: Ray Hookway Telephone 9411 1873 +
-Business Manager: Elizabeth Miller 1 The Babette, Castlecrag, 2068 Telephone 9958 7838 +
-Production Manager: Frances Holland Printer: Kenn Clacher, Barrie Murdoch, Margaret Niven, Les Powell, Tom Wenman,+
  
-THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INCORPORATED was founded in 1927. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening at 8 pm at Kirribilli Neighburhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, (near Milsons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members are welcome any Wednesday.+To advertise in this magazine, please contact the Business Manager.
  
-President: Eddy Giacomel  +|**Editor**| Ray Hookway Telephone 9411 1873| 
-Vice-President: Tony Holgate  +|**Business Manager**| Elizabeth Miller 1 The Babette, Castlecrag, 2068 Telephone 9958 7838| 
-Public Officer: Fran Holland  +|**Production Manager**| Frances Holland | 
-Treasurer: Edith Baker +|**PrinterS**| Kenn Clacher, Barrie Murdoch, Margaret Niven, Les Powell, Tom Wenman|
-Secretary Rosemary MacDougal  +
-Walks Secretary: Bill Capon  +
-Social Secretary: Elwyn Morris  +
-Membership Secretary: BarryWallace +
-New Members Secretary: Frank Prennan +
-Conservation Secretary: Bill Hi41-1aM'  +
-Magazine Editor: Ray Hookway +
-Committee Members: Anthony Crichton & Spiro Hajinakitas  +
-Delegates to Confederation: Jim Callaway & Wilf Hilder+
  
-APRIL 1999 +THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INCORPORATED was founded in 1927. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening at 8 pm at Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, (near Milsons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members are welcome any Wednesday.
-Issue No. 773:+
  
-2. Editorial, Vale Tine Matthews +|**President**| Eddy Giacomel | 
-3. Letter to editor by Gretel Woodward  +|**Vice-President**| Tony Holgate | 
-4: Letter to editor by Owen Marks +|**Public Officer**| Fran Holland | 
-5. Letter to Editor by Pamela Irving +|**Treasurer**| Edith Baker| 
-Reunion report by Bill holland +|**Secretary** |Rosemary MacDougal | 
-Salute to Marie Byles by Dot Butler +|**Walks Secretary**| Bill Capon | 
-8. Coolana questions answered by Bill Holland +|**Social Secretary**| Elwyn Morris | 
-10. New Bushwalking Publications: +|**Membership Secretary**| Barry Wallace| 
-II. We Need Coolana by Alex Colley +|**New Members Secretary**| Frank Grennan | 
-12. February Meeting report by Barry Wallace +|**Conservation Secretary**| Bill Holland | 
-13. First Coolana Committee meeting report by Rosemary MacDougal +|**Magazine Editor**| Ray Hookway | 
-14. Competency training by Brad X +|**Committee Members**| Anthony Crichton & Spiro Hajinakitas | 
-15. Temporary Archivist  wanted +|**Delegates to Confederation**| Jim Callaway & Wilf Hilder |
-16. Bush Lovers Beware by Henry Gold +
  
-ADVERTISERS +**APRIL 1999 Issue No. 773** 
-Alpsport front cover + 
-Eastwood Camping Centre 7 +|2. |Editorial, Vale Tine Matthews| 
-Outland 10 +|3. |Letter to editor by Gretel Woodward | 
-Paddy Palm back cover +|4. | Letter to editor by Owen Marks | 
-U Relax 4 We'll Drive 15 +|5. |Letter to Editor by Pamela Irving | 
-Willis's Walkabouts 5+| | Reunion report by Bill Holland| 
 +| | Salute to Marie Byles by Dot Butler| 
 +|8. |Coolana questions answered by Bill Holland| 
 +|10. |New Bushwalking Publications | 
 +|II. |We Need Coolana by Alex Colley | 
 +|12. |February Meeting report by Barry Wallace | 
 +|13. |First Coolana Committee meeting report by Rosemary MacDougal | 
 +|14. |Competency training by Brad X | 
 +|15. |Temporary Archivist wanted | 
 +|16. |Bush Lovers Beware by Henry Gold | 
 + 
 +ADVERTISERS\\ 
 +Alpsport front cover\\ 
 +Eastwood Camping Centre 7\\ 
 +Outland 10\\ 
 +Paddy Palm back cover\\ 
 +U Relax 4 We'll Drive 15\\ 
 +Willis's Walkabouts 5\\ 
 + 
 + 
 +====== Editorial ======
  
  
-**Editorial** 
 Somehow I have ended up as editor of this prestigious journal. I don't know whether it was Patrick's persuasive talents or his offer of a complimentary set of steak knives that persuaded me, but I am sure that I. will find it difficult to continue the excellent standard that Patrick has maintained in the three years that he filled the position of editor. Thank you Patrick. Somehow I have ended up as editor of this prestigious journal. I don't know whether it was Patrick's persuasive talents or his offer of a complimentary set of steak knives that persuaded me, but I am sure that I. will find it difficult to continue the excellent standard that Patrick has maintained in the three years that he filled the position of editor. Thank you Patrick.
  
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 The first committee meeting was held on April 15th prior to the general meeting and a full report which includes a list of committee members, be found on page 13. The first committee meeting was held on April 15th prior to the general meeting and a full report which includes a list of committee members, be found on page 13.
  
-** +**New Club Post Box Number**
-New Club Post Box Number**+
  
 Please note that the SBW PO Box number is now PO Box 431 Milsons Point NSW 1565. The old city box will be retained for 2 months. Please note that the SBW PO Box number is now PO Box 431 Milsons Point NSW 1565. The old city box will be retained for 2 months.
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-**Letters to the Editor** +====== Letters to the Editor ====== 
-**Fire Sale of Coolana** by Gretel Woodward+ 
 +**Fire Sale of Coolana**  
 +by Gretel Woodward
  
 Since the late 1920s SBW has been a club whose main objective has been to provide top quality bush walking for its members and because of this the club has attracted (in the main) like minded people with high ideals and principles. Wherever possible they have endeavoured to protect the bush that gives us all so much pleasure, by accepting and adhering to the rules of the bushwalking code i e. leave nothing but footprint, and to protect where possible a small portion of this precious bushland for the future - Blue Gum, Myuna Creek, Garrawarra, North Era and the clubs present icon, Coolana. Since the late 1920s SBW has been a club whose main objective has been to provide top quality bush walking for its members and because of this the club has attracted (in the main) like minded people with high ideals and principles. Wherever possible they have endeavoured to protect the bush that gives us all so much pleasure, by accepting and adhering to the rules of the bushwalking code i e. leave nothing but footprint, and to protect where possible a small portion of this precious bushland for the future - Blue Gum, Myuna Creek, Garrawarra, North Era and the clubs present icon, Coolana.
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-Annual subscriptions are now due.+**Annual subscriptions are now due.**
  
  
-Dear Editor+**Dear Editor** 
 As a non-active Bushwalker who was mainly active between 1965 and 1977, I attended the AGM because of my belief in the relevance of Coolana to all members, active and non active, past and present. As a non-active Bushwalker who was mainly active between 1965 and 1977, I attended the AGM because of my belief in the relevance of Coolana to all members, active and non active, past and present.
  
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-**A Prospective's view of Coolana** By Pam Irving.+====== A Prospective's view of Coolana ====== 
 +  
 +By Pam Irving.
  
 Just a few thoughts on the Coolana situation. I am new to SBW (four months as a prospective) and perhaps that puts me in a position to be dispassionate relative to long standing members. I have been to Coolana Just a few thoughts on the Coolana situation. I am new to SBW (four months as a prospective) and perhaps that puts me in a position to be dispassionate relative to long standing members. I have been to Coolana
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-**The Annual Celebration 30th SBW Reunion at Coolana** by Bill Holland+====== The Annual Celebration 30th SBW Reunion at Coolana ====== 
 +  
 +by Bill Holland
  
 About a dozen or so campers had arrived by Friday evening. As expected, the river flats were a picture. We gathered around the table under the trees for an evening of star gazing and discussion and then having solved the problems of the world we went to bed. The 30th Annual Reunion of Sydney Bush Walkers had begun. About a dozen or so campers had arrived by Friday evening. As expected, the river flats were a picture. We gathered around the table under the trees for an evening of star gazing and discussion and then having solved the problems of the world we went to bed. The 30th Annual Reunion of Sydney Bush Walkers had begun.
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 Although most of us departed late Sunday afternoon, others stayed on until Monday. What Was different about this reunion? Not much really, it was the usual pleasant occasion. Numbers were up but there were fewer children. We had a great weekend and look forward to next year. What will it be? The Millennium Reunion or perhaps the Year 2000 Celebration. We might even feature the Bushies Olympics. Whatever we call it, Coolana will be just as beautiful and the weekend something to look forward to. Although most of us departed late Sunday afternoon, others stayed on until Monday. What Was different about this reunion? Not much really, it was the usual pleasant occasion. Numbers were up but there were fewer children. We had a great weekend and look forward to next year. What will it be? The Millennium Reunion or perhaps the Year 2000 Celebration. We might even feature the Bushies Olympics. Whatever we call it, Coolana will be just as beautiful and the weekend something to look forward to.
  
-**Salute to Marie Byles**+ 
 +====== Salute to Marie Byles ====== 
  
 At this year's reunion a tree at Coolana was dedicated to Marie Byles, a SBW member of 50 years standing. Marie was born on 5th April 1900 and died on 21st November 1979. She packed a lot of living into those 79 1/2 years. Marie studied law at Sydney University and in 1924, at the age of 24 this pocket edition, seven stone, 5'2" girl entered the law profession and became the first female solicitor in New South Wales. In 1929 Marie joined the Sydney Bush Walkers Club then just two years old. Marie alone and with S.B.W. friends went mountain climbing in Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway and Scotland. She wrote books On travel, mountain climbing, eastern religion and physical fitness. In 1941 Marie together with Paddy Pallin started the Bush Club, still an active Sydney bushwalking club. Marie espoused many Conservation issues, one of Which was having Bouddi National park declared. Marie acted as the Club's legal adviser in the purchase of Coolana, and donated significantly to the Coolana fund. A giant tree at a place she loved is a fitting tribute to this small, giant of a lady. At this year's reunion a tree at Coolana was dedicated to Marie Byles, a SBW member of 50 years standing. Marie was born on 5th April 1900 and died on 21st November 1979. She packed a lot of living into those 79 1/2 years. Marie studied law at Sydney University and in 1924, at the age of 24 this pocket edition, seven stone, 5'2" girl entered the law profession and became the first female solicitor in New South Wales. In 1929 Marie joined the Sydney Bush Walkers Club then just two years old. Marie alone and with S.B.W. friends went mountain climbing in Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway and Scotland. She wrote books On travel, mountain climbing, eastern religion and physical fitness. In 1941 Marie together with Paddy Pallin started the Bush Club, still an active Sydney bushwalking club. Marie espoused many Conservation issues, one of Which was having Bouddi National park declared. Marie acted as the Club's legal adviser in the purchase of Coolana, and donated significantly to the Coolana fund. A giant tree at a place she loved is a fitting tribute to this small, giant of a lady.
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 Extracted from Salute and Farewell to Marie Byles by Dot Butler, The Sydney Bushwalker Jan 1980. Extracted from Salute and Farewell to Marie Byles by Dot Butler, The Sydney Bushwalker Jan 1980.
  
-A fill length article compiled by Beverley Hammond from Marie's own writings will be published at a later date.+A full length article compiled by Beverley Hammond from Marie's own writings will be published at a later date. 
 + 
 + 
 +====== Coolana, Answers to Frequently Asked Questions ======
  
  
-**Coolana** +Compiled by W Holland
-**Answers to frequently asked questions** Compiled by W Holland+
 Originally circulated at the March AGM Originally circulated at the March AGM
  
-1. Where did the money to buy Coolana come from?+1. Where did the money to buy Coolana come from?\\
 Purchase cost of $4,060 was funded by North Era Trust $1,557 Purchase cost of $4,060 was funded by North Era Trust $1,557
 SBW Special Fund $1,000 SBW Special Fund $1,000
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 Dot Butler advanced $3,000 of her own money to secure the property pending the club arranging finance. The original North Era Trust was formed from members' and the public's donations for the purpose of preserving bushland in its natural state. (See Alex Colley's article on page II of this issue.) Dot Butler advanced $3,000 of her own money to secure the property pending the club arranging finance. The original North Era Trust was formed from members' and the public's donations for the purpose of preserving bushland in its natural state. (See Alex Colley's article on page II of this issue.)
  
-2. How is the ownership identified? +2. How is the ownership identified? \\
 On purchase the land titles for Coolana were vested in a Trust with three Club Members as trustees. The ownership was transferred to the SBW when the club became incorporated. On purchase the land titles for Coolana were vested in a Trust with three Club Members as trustees. The ownership was transferred to the SBW when the club became incorporated.
  
-3. What does Coolana cost to keep? +3. What does Coolana cost to keep? \\
 A "Coolana Fund" was established by Dot Butler and assistance sought from others to provide funds for the upkeep of Coolana including rates and maintenance costs. By 1982, the fund had grown to $10,500, including donations from : A "Coolana Fund" was established by Dot Butler and assistance sought from others to provide funds for the upkeep of Coolana including rates and maintenance costs. By 1982, the fund had grown to $10,500, including donations from :
-D Butler Fund for Conservation $5,012 +D Butler Fund for Conservation $5,012, 
-Marie Byles Fund for Conservation $1,305 (set up with money left to Dot Butler in Marie Byte 's will) +Marie Byles Fund for Conservation $1,305 (set up with money left to Dot Butler in Marie Byte 's will), 
-M Davidson Fund for Conservation $2,937+M Davidson Fund for Conservation $2,937,
 Natural Areas Ltd $450 Natural Areas Ltd $450
  
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 Coolana does not impose a burden on the Club finances. In the last ten years the fund income was $21,633 and expenditure $17,256 ie a surplus of $4,377. This is after the purchase of lawnmowers and other equipment.  Coolana does not impose a burden on the Club finances. In the last ten years the fund income was $21,633 and expenditure $17,256 ie a surplus of $4,377. This is after the purchase of lawnmowers and other equipment. 
  
-4.Does Coolana have conservation value?+4.Does Coolana have conservation value?\\
 The land has very high conservation value. It forms part of a natural cliff-line link from the upper part of Kangaroo Valley down to Tallowa Dam and the Morton National Park. This cliff-line is home to threatened species including one of the remnant colonies of brush-tailed rock wallabies, presently located in the vicinity of our property. Kangaroo Valley has been allocated $135,000 (over three years) for protection of this species. The National Parks and Wildlife Service are assisting us, and our neighbours, in identifying threatened species of flora and fauna in the Kangaroo Valley.  The land has very high conservation value. It forms part of a natural cliff-line link from the upper part of Kangaroo Valley down to Tallowa Dam and the Morton National Park. This cliff-line is home to threatened species including one of the remnant colonies of brush-tailed rock wallabies, presently located in the vicinity of our property. Kangaroo Valley has been allocated $135,000 (over three years) for protection of this species. The National Parks and Wildlife Service are assisting us, and our neighbours, in identifying threatened species of flora and fauna in the Kangaroo Valley. 
  
 A study entitled "Survey Of Vertebrates Fauna of Tallowa Dam Road", conducted by Michael J. Murphy (Zoologist/Ecologist) in 1995 "revealed a total of 127 vertebrate species: 28 mammals, 76 birds, 12 reptiles, 8 amphibians and 3 fish. Seven species listed on Schedule 12 of the NSW NPWS Wildlife Act (1974) were recorded in the area. Suitable habitat exists for another eleven species listed on Schedule 12. Six species which were recorded in the area are considered regionally significant because they are scarce, are ecological specialists, or are declining in abundance. Seven species of fauna are listed as presumed extinct within the study area. 340 fauna records obtained during this survey have been given to the NSW NPWS, for inc1usion in the Service's Database." (A copy of this study with list Of identified species is in the Club Archives) A study entitled "Survey Of Vertebrates Fauna of Tallowa Dam Road", conducted by Michael J. Murphy (Zoologist/Ecologist) in 1995 "revealed a total of 127 vertebrate species: 28 mammals, 76 birds, 12 reptiles, 8 amphibians and 3 fish. Seven species listed on Schedule 12 of the NSW NPWS Wildlife Act (1974) were recorded in the area. Suitable habitat exists for another eleven species listed on Schedule 12. Six species which were recorded in the area are considered regionally significant because they are scarce, are ecological specialists, or are declining in abundance. Seven species of fauna are listed as presumed extinct within the study area. 340 fauna records obtained during this survey have been given to the NSW NPWS, for inc1usion in the Service's Database." (A copy of this study with list Of identified species is in the Club Archives)
  
- +5. Who uses Coolana?\\
- +
- +
-5. Who uses Coolana?+
 All club members, including prospective members, and their families may use Coolana. In fine weather, each week will see people casually camping with more on the holiday weekends. For instance, last Christmas 35 people enjoyed the facilities, at Easter six families. Up to 100 people have attended the Club's annual reunion although numbers have been lower in recent years. The prospectives' training weekends are held every three months, attracting between 15 and 30 members each time. All club members, including prospective members, and their families may use Coolana. In fine weather, each week will see people casually camping with more on the holiday weekends. For instance, last Christmas 35 people enjoyed the facilities, at Easter six families. Up to 100 people have attended the Club's annual reunion although numbers have been lower in recent years. The prospectives' training weekends are held every three months, attracting between 15 and 30 members each time.
  
-6. Is camping and access to the river flats secure?+6. Is camping and access to the river flats secure?\\
 There has been no indication from Sydney Water that our use of the river flats will be discontinued. Our license to use these river flats has been renewed. There are alternative camping sites available on our land adjacent to the river flats, close to the shelter shed. There is no suggestion from the Sydney Water or NPWS (future managers of Sydney Water land) that access to the river will be denied. There has been no indication from Sydney Water that our use of the river flats will be discontinued. Our license to use these river flats has been renewed. There are alternative camping sites available on our land adjacent to the river flats, close to the shelter shed. There is no suggestion from the Sydney Water or NPWS (future managers of Sydney Water land) that access to the river will be denied.
  
-7. Are there alternative camping sites for large groups?+7. Are there alternative camping sites for large groups?\\
 It is becoming more difficult to find such camping sites. NPWS have imposed site limits in national parks and permits (with fees) may be introduced. It is becoming more difficult to find such camping sites. NPWS have imposed site limits in national parks and permits (with fees) may be introduced.
  
-8. Does weed control place an intolerable burden on our members?+8. Does weed control place an intolerable burden on our members?\\
 The river flats were cleared of weeds (with assistance from Sydney Water). The challenge now is to prevent reseeding for a further two to three years. Natural grass is being encouraged and indigenous trees planted (re-growth is occurring). This will return the area to its natural state and continuous mowing will not be required. Weeding is carried out by volunteers who willingly give their time for the benefit of Coolana. The river flats were cleared of weeds (with assistance from Sydney Water). The challenge now is to prevent reseeding for a further two to three years. Natural grass is being encouraged and indigenous trees planted (re-growth is occurring). This will return the area to its natural state and continuous mowing will not be required. Weeding is carried out by volunteers who willingly give their time for the benefit of Coolana.
  
-9. What is a Voluntary Conservation Agreement and how will it affect Coolana?+9. What is a Voluntary Conservation Agreement and how will it affect Coolana?\\
 A Voluntary Conservation Agreement is a contractual agreement, legally binding on the landholder, all future landholders, and the NPWS as the agent of the Minister. It may be varied or terminated if both the owner and the Minister consent. The conservation agreement is intended to protect the natural conservation values of land. Amongst other things it encourages the study, preservation, protection, care and or propagation of native fauna and flora. It may well reflect the intentions of those earlier members who raised or donated funds for the purchase of Coolana. A Voluntary Conservation Agreement is a contractual agreement, legally binding on the landholder, all future landholders, and the NPWS as the agent of the Minister. It may be varied or terminated if both the owner and the Minister consent. The conservation agreement is intended to protect the natural conservation values of land. Amongst other things it encourages the study, preservation, protection, care and or propagation of native fauna and flora. It may well reflect the intentions of those earlier members who raised or donated funds for the purchase of Coolana.
  
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 perpetuating the conservation values of our property. Our existing use of the land and possible extension of these uses can be safeguarded in the management agreement. Assistance from the NPWS may include funding for equipment/materials and staffing for flora and fauna surveys, weed control and elimination of feral animals such as foxes, pigs and goats. Rate and land tax relief are also possible -see Item 11. perpetuating the conservation values of our property. Our existing use of the land and possible extension of these uses can be safeguarded in the management agreement. Assistance from the NPWS may include funding for equipment/materials and staffing for flora and fauna surveys, weed control and elimination of feral animals such as foxes, pigs and goats. Rate and land tax relief are also possible -see Item 11.
  
-10. What are the financial advantages of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement?+10. What are the financial advantages of a Voluntary Conservation Agreement?\\
 Shoalhaven Council have indicated that new legislation now permits them to grant rate exemption for properties or sections of properties covered by a VCA. The council has also indicated that some rate relief may be granted a Wild Life Refuge if the management plan for the sanctuary excludes the erection of buildings etc. Coolana rates last year were $1300. NPWS have indicated that funding is available and, depending on the management plan obligations, they could assist us financially with weed eradication, basic road maintenance (for fire and management access), fencing and feral animal control. Funds for Voluntary Conservation are specifically granted under State legislation and are held separately from other NPWS funding. Exemption or relief from Land Tax is also available. Shoalhaven Council have indicated that new legislation now permits them to grant rate exemption for properties or sections of properties covered by a VCA. The council has also indicated that some rate relief may be granted a Wild Life Refuge if the management plan for the sanctuary excludes the erection of buildings etc. Coolana rates last year were $1300. NPWS have indicated that funding is available and, depending on the management plan obligations, they could assist us financially with weed eradication, basic road maintenance (for fire and management access), fencing and feral animal control. Funds for Voluntary Conservation are specifically granted under State legislation and are held separately from other NPWS funding. Exemption or relief from Land Tax is also available.
  
-11. Has the Club committed itself to a Voluntary Conservation Agreement ?+11. Has the Club committed itself to a Voluntary Conservation Agreement ?\\
 A sub-committee (Bill Holland, Rosemary McDougall, John Poleson and Patrick James) was appointed 11 April 1998 to investigate the possibility of entering into a VCA. Progress has been reported in the Club magazine and at general meetings. Current negotiation with NPWS has been deferred due to NPWS commitment to other properties and to our hesitation into entering into such an agreement. However, the NPWS have advised that they are willing to assist us in preparing a Management Plan for Coolana as a wildlife sanctuary. This is a requirement under the relevant Act and will form the basis of a VCA should club members decide to proceed. A sub-committee (Bill Holland, Rosemary McDougall, John Poleson and Patrick James) was appointed 11 April 1998 to investigate the possibility of entering into a VCA. Progress has been reported in the Club magazine and at general meetings. Current negotiation with NPWS has been deferred due to NPWS commitment to other properties and to our hesitation into entering into such an agreement. However, the NPWS have advised that they are willing to assist us in preparing a Management Plan for Coolana as a wildlife sanctuary. This is a requirement under the relevant Act and will form the basis of a VCA should club members decide to proceed.
  
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-**We Need Coolana** By Alex Colley+====== We Need Coolana ====== 
 +  
 +By Alex Colley
  
 This article by Alex fills in the background as to how the conservation fund that formed the basis of the Coolana fund. This article by Alex fills in the background as to how the conservation fund that formed the basis of the Coolana fund.
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 Over the years the SBW have several times acted to preserve some of their favourite camping sites. First it was Bluegum Forest, threatened with clearing. Next it was Garrawatra, which was being degraded by timber getters, hunters, wildflower gatherers and cattle. Garrawarra was later added to the Royal National Park, which adopted a policy, not carried out,of removing the cabins when no longer required by their then owners:  Because of the occupation of Burning Palms and Era by cabins, the SBW camped. at North-Era. In 1937 we responded to Mi1es Dunphy's appeal to take up areas in the Heathcote Creek catchment With a view to having the area made a primitive reserve. We leased 100 acres, which we called Morella Karon & on a branch of Heathcote Creek and enjoyed many reunions there.  Over the years the SBW have several times acted to preserve some of their favourite camping sites. First it was Bluegum Forest, threatened with clearing. Next it was Garrawatra, which was being degraded by timber getters, hunters, wildflower gatherers and cattle. Garrawarra was later added to the Royal National Park, which adopted a policy, not carried out,of removing the cabins when no longer required by their then owners:  Because of the occupation of Burning Palms and Era by cabins, the SBW camped. at North-Era. In 1937 we responded to Mi1es Dunphy's appeal to take up areas in the Heathcote Creek catchment With a view to having the area made a primitive reserve. We leased 100 acres, which we called Morella Karon & on a branch of Heathcote Creek and enjoyed many reunions there. 
  
-The Heathcote PrirriitiVe Reserve was gazetted in 1943. In the same year we learned that the North Era land was to be sold, probably to the Era Development Company, which planned to erect a large boarding house there. To prevent this we negotiated with the owner to buy the key block 7 - the flat where we camped and the site for a boarding house. The negotiations were successful, but at a price above that allowed by wartime land value regulations. However Marie Byles lobbied the Treasurer and the block was ours. Not long after it was added to the Royal National Park and we received 458 compensation. The Club  decided to buy another piece of land with the money. There was a holding on the Kowmung which we onsidered. It was not suitable for reunions, but perhaps worth conserving. This was acquired soon after by the NPWS. +The Heathcote Primitive Reserve was gazetted in 1943. In the same year we learned that the North Era land was to be sold, probably to the Era Development Company, which planned to erect a large boarding house there. To prevent this we negotiated with the owner to buy the key block 7 - the flat where we camped and the site for a boarding house. The negotiations were successful, but at a price above that allowed by wartime land value regulations. However Marie Byles lobbied the Treasurer and the block was ours. Not long after it was added to the Royal National Park and we received 458 compensation. The Club  decided to buy another piece of land with the money. There was a holding on the Kowmung which we onsidered. It was not suitable for reunions, but perhaps worth conserving. This was acquired soon after by the NPWS. 
  
 Then we sent Bill Burke down to an auction of the Bendethera property, placing a limit of 2000 on the bid. It wasn't enough and the place is now a 4WD playground. Brian Harvey and I looked at land on the Grose, just below Woods Creek. It would have been suitable, but cost $6000. Reunions were held at various sites, the most favoured being Woods Creek, which was also used by other groups until firewood became scarce. Other favoured campsites, such as Merry Beach and Sawpit Creek succumbed to development. The Club had succeeded in saving some lovely camp sites but, perhaps due to the publicity our efforts attracted, all except Morella Karong became over used and closed to camping. Then we sent Bill Burke down to an auction of the Bendethera property, placing a limit of 2000 on the bid. It wasn't enough and the place is now a 4WD playground. Brian Harvey and I looked at land on the Grose, just below Woods Creek. It would have been suitable, but cost $6000. Reunions were held at various sites, the most favoured being Woods Creek, which was also used by other groups until firewood became scarce. Other favoured campsites, such as Merry Beach and Sawpit Creek succumbed to development. The Club had succeeded in saving some lovely camp sites but, perhaps due to the publicity our efforts attracted, all except Morella Karong became over used and closed to camping.
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-**The February 1999 General Meeting.** +====== The February 1999 General Meeting ====== 
  
 There were some 29 or so members present when Tony Holgate as chairman, standing in for the President, absent on business interstate, declared the meeting open at 20.17 hours. There was an apology for Eddy, and new member Sara Ashley-Wilson was welcomed to the club. There were some 29 or so members present when Tony Holgate as chairman, standing in for the President, absent on business interstate, declared the meeting open at 20.17 hours. There was an apology for Eddy, and new member Sara Ashley-Wilson was welcomed to the club.
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 David Trinder's extended walk in Tasmania from 29th January to 7th February saw a party of 12 doing the Overland Track, with all reported to have gone well. David Trinder's extended walk in Tasmania from 29th January to 7th February saw a party of 12 doing the Overland Track, with all reported to have gone well.
  
-Phil Newman reported a party of 1 for his somewhat convoluted tour of the six-foot track and Carlon's Farm over the weekend of 30. 31 January. There was no report for Oliver Crawford's walk on the Colo River that weekend, and Maurice Smith's two canyon trips out from Mount Wilson were cancelled due to the leader being grounded for ankle surgery. There was no report for Wilf Hilder's Saturday walk in the Georges River Nature Reserve but Eddy Giacomel had 16 on his Sunday walk from Mountain Lagoon to the Colo River and return. Nigel Weaver led some 9 intrepid souls through misty conditions with light rain on his trip down the Wollangambe Canyon. John Poleson had a party 13 on the other Sunday +Phil Newman reported a party of 1 for his somewhat convoluted tour of the six-foot track and Carlon's Farm over the weekend of 30. 31 January. There was no report for Oliver Crawford's walk on the Colo River that weekend, and Maurice Smith's two canyon trips out from Mount Wilson were cancelled due to the leader being grounded for ankle surgery. There was no report for Wilf Hilder's Saturday walk in the Georges River Nature Reserve but Eddy Giacomel had 16 on his Sunday walk from Mountain Lagoon to the Colo River and return. Nigel Weaver led some 9 intrepid souls through misty conditions with light rain on his trip down the Wollangambe Canyon. John Poleson had a party 13 on the other Sunday walk that weekend, out from Otford, in overcast conditions with higher than usual seas making things interesting around the rock ledges. 
-The Sydney Bush walker First Edition July 1931 + 
-Official publication of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc. +Wayne Steele led a party of 7 down Morong-Deep over the weekend of 4, 5, 6 February. Conditions started out damp but fined up to provide dry conditions on the rock plates. The Blue Mountains Canyons trip that weekend, under the combined leadership of Allan Donnelley and Jan Pieters, attracted 8 starters. Ian Rannard's night walk out from Otford had 3 starters. Morrie Ward postponed his Birrabang Gorge trip to the following weekend but Anne Maguire had a party of 24 on her Kanuka Brook trip on the Sunday. It was described as a great day with swimming and frolicking in the pools. If you can think of a better close to the walks report for the month let me know. 
-The Sydney Bushwalker, April 1999 Page 13 I + 
-walk that weekend, out from Otford, in overcast conditions with higher than usual seas making things interesting around the rock ledges.' +No conservation report was presented to the meeting, and as there had been no Confederation meeting since our last General Meeting there was nothing to report for Confederation. 
-WaY'rie- Steele led a party of 7 down Morong-Deep over the weekend of 4, 5, 6 February. Conditions started out damp but fined -up to provide dry conditions on the rock plates. The Blue Mountains Canyons trip that weekend, under the combined leadership of Allan Donnelley and Jan Pieters, attracted 8 starters. Ian Rannard's night walk out from Otford had 3 starters. Morrie Ward postponed his Birrabang Gorge trip to the following weekend but Anne Maguire had a party of 24 on her Kanuka Brook trip on the Sunday. It was described as a great day with swimming and frolicking in the pools. If you ,can think of a better close to the walks report for the month let me know. + 
-No conservation report was presented to the meeting, and as there had been no Confederation rneeting since our ,tast 'General Meeting' 'there was nothing to report for Confederation. +General business brought forth three motions relating to Coolana. The first of these called for a sub committee to be established to prepare a report to the membership providing detailed information about Coolana,and recommending possible future options for the property. After some at times passionate debate this was resolved in the affirmative. 
-General business brought forth three motions relating to Coolana. The first of these called for a sub committee to be established to prepare a report to the membership providing detailed information about Coolana,and recommending possible future option S for the property. After some at times passionate debate this was resolved in the affirmative. + 
-. The second motion required that no decisions be made on significant matters relating to ,Coolana without wide publication of the pros and cons and a postal ballot of the membership. It was eventually determined that this motion lies on the table for the A.G:M +The second motion required that no decisions be made on significant matters relating to Coolana without wide publication of the pros and cons and a postal ballot of the membership. It was eventually determined that this motion lies on the table for the A.G.M. 
-On closer inspection the third motion turned out to be a melange of the first two which would in effect have pre determined the outcome of the ,sub committee's deliberations, it was discarded by mutual agreement. + 
-Announcements followed and the meeting closed at 2153 +On closer inspection the third motion turned out to be a melange of the first two which would in effect have pre determined the outcome of the sub committee's deliberations, it was discarded by mutual agreement. 
-COOLAN A SUB-COMMITTEE + 
-The resolution regarding'Coolana which was carried at the General Meeting in February 1999 and in respect of which the rescission motion moved at the Annual General Meeting in March 1999 was lost, is as follows:+Announcements followed and the meeting closed at 21.53. 
 + 
 + 
 +====== Coolana Sub-Committee ====== 
 + 
 + 
 +The resolution regarding Coolana which was carried at the General Meeting in February 1999 and in respect of which the rescission motion moved at the Annual General Meeting in March 1999 was lost, is as follows:
 That a full report be prepared for the Special Committee to consider future options for the Sydney Bushwalking Club property, known as Coolana located in Kangaroo Valley including advice on : That a full report be prepared for the Special Committee to consider future options for the Sydney Bushwalking Club property, known as Coolana located in Kangaroo Valley including advice on :
 +
 1. Cost of maintenance; 1. Cost of maintenance;
 2. Legal title; 2. Legal title;
 3. Restrictions on use and sale; 3. Restrictions on use and sale;
-4. Consequences of voluntary +4. Consequences of voluntary conversation agreement status;
-conversation agreement Status;+
 5. Market value; 5. Market value;
 6. Current issues re Water Board and National Parks and Wildlife Service; 6. Current issues re Water Board and National Parks and Wildlife Service;
 7 Advantages and disadvantages of the identified options. 7 Advantages and disadvantages of the identified options.
 +
 Any such report is made available to the Club through inclusion in the Club's magazine. Any such report is made available to the Club through inclusion in the Club's magazine.
-At the February 1999 General Meeting a further motion was discussed but allowed to lie on the table and is in the following terms. + 
-I. That no decision be made on these options or any other significant matters relating to Coolana until +At the February 1999 General Meeting a further motion was discussed but allowed to lie on the table and is in the following terms : 
-(a) The Committee presents the report to the +That no decision be made on these options or any other significant matters relating to Coolana until 
-fine 14 The Sydney Bushwalker, April 1999  +(a) The Committee presents the report to the Club for general discussion at a General or Special Meeting; The options and information and arguments for and against are adequately publicised in the Club magazine;
-Club for general discussion at a General or Special Meeting; The options and information and arguments for and against are adequately publicis ed in the Club magazine;+
 (b) A postal ballot is conducted to determine the wishes of all members. (b) A postal ballot is conducted to determine the wishes of all members.
-The President has appointed the Sub- Committee and and its members are: + 
-Bill Holland, Patrick James, John Poleson, Rosemary MacDougal , Geoff Dowsett and Don Finch. +The President has appointed the Sub-Committee and and its members are: Bill Holland, Patrick James, John Poleson, Rosemary MacDougal , Geoff Dowsett and Don Finch. The President will chair each meeting but will have no vote. Meetings will take place at 7pm prior to the Monthly General Meeting and will conclude at 7.45pm. 
-The President will chair each meeting but will have no vote. Meetings will take place at 7pm prior to the Monthly General Meeting and will conclude at 7.45pm.+
 The Committee had its first meeting on 14 April 1999 and the tasks referred to in the resolution have been allocated to its members. The Committee had its first meeting on 14 April 1999 and the tasks referred to in the resolution have been allocated to its members.
-The Committee welcomes the attendances of Club -Members whose assistant in completing the various tasks will be very much 'appreciated. So that the Committee can complete its business within the limited time allocated, it would he preferable that members notify the Committee of any specific issues which they wish to discuss or have 'clarified prior to the meeting so that relevant research can be done or answers provided without lengthy debate. 
  
-**Competency Training** by Brad X+The Committee welcomes the attendances of Club Members whose assistance in completing the various tasks will be very much appreciated. So that the Committee can complete its business within the limited time allocated, it would he preferable that members notify the Committee of any specific issues which they wish to discuss or have clarified prior to the meeting so that relevant research can be done or answers provided without lengthy debate. 
 + 
 + 
 +====== Competency Training ====== 
 + 
 +by Brad X
  
 Is this what you're looking for" said my flatmate and thrust an official looking letter into my hands. One quick glimpse at the return address and 1 knew it was. I dropped the letter a couple of times in my fumbles to open it. Damn! I passed the theory but 1 failed the practical test. Now what was I to do. My fiancee would be upset and all our wedding plans and preparations probably would be totally disrupted. Is this what you're looking for" said my flatmate and thrust an official looking letter into my hands. One quick glimpse at the return address and 1 knew it was. I dropped the letter a couple of times in my fumbles to open it. Damn! I passed the theory but 1 failed the practical test. Now what was I to do. My fiancee would be upset and all our wedding plans and preparations probably would be totally disrupted.
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 What will Brad do? Will the Wedding go ahead? Stay tuned next month for the next instalment. What will Brad do? Will the Wedding go ahead? Stay tuned next month for the next instalment.
  
-ARTICLES WANTED+ 
 +**ARTICLES WANTED**
 A new editor but the same old refrain! Walk reports or articles on any subject related to Bushwalking are welcome. Articles can be submitted on a floppy disk or by email on rraymond@ozemail.com.au or if you do not have a computer I will accept typed documents. I would prefer that they be done with "Word" using Times New Roman 12 pt font. A new editor but the same old refrain! Walk reports or articles on any subject related to Bushwalking are welcome. Articles can be submitted on a floppy disk or by email on rraymond@ozemail.com.au or if you do not have a computer I will accept typed documents. I would prefer that they be done with "Word" using Times New Roman 12 pt font.
  
  
-**Bush Lovers Beware !** -by Henry Gold+====== Bush Lovers Beware ! ====== 
 +  
 +by Henry Gold 
 I was disturbed to notice that two long-standing members of the Sydney Bushwalkers stood as Lower House candidates for the Outdoor Recreation Party (ORP) in the recent State Elections. Despite the party's poor showing at the ballot box, 3487 votes State-wide, it should not be dismissed and forgotten together with the large number of micro-parties who appeared on the ballot papers. Anybody with a concern for nature conservation in NSW should pause and examine their aims. I was disturbed to notice that two long-standing members of the Sydney Bushwalkers stood as Lower House candidates for the Outdoor Recreation Party (ORP) in the recent State Elections. Despite the party's poor showing at the ballot box, 3487 votes State-wide, it should not be dismissed and forgotten together with the large number of micro-parties who appeared on the ballot papers. Anybody with a concern for nature conservation in NSW should pause and examine their aims.
  
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 The PLUA newsletters attack conservation organisations, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and individuals who don't share their views. The PLUA's aggressive and confrontational approach somewhat diminishes their credibility as a lobby group, The PLUA newsletters attack conservation organisations, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and individuals who don't share their views. The PLUA's aggressive and confrontational approach somewhat diminishes their credibility as a lobby group,
- 
199904.1450857496.txt.gz · Last modified: 2015/12/23 18:58 by kennettj
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