Q
MARCH 2004 1045 Victoria Rd West Ryde 9858 5844
Come in and see one of the best lightweight and roomy bush walking tents currently available. It sleeps 3 and weighs in at only 2340 grams complete (with the mesh inner tent and pegs.) Or just 1260 grams fly, pole and pegs.
i
ny a - ., 2 mye i? a % ov \ x s- \ - f- % Pd - an yo oS Pa Ny
a . To . wos
USES . 3 or 4 season hiking or backpacking, winter camping, mountaineering Price: $ 599.00 WEIGHT
800 g canopy + 370 g pole + 90 g pegs and sack DESCRIPTION This 4-season, extremely versatile, roomy 3-person, canopy-style shelter is bound to be- come your favourite all-year home-away-from-home. Unlike a tent, which essentially
HEX 3 FLOOR Only
Price: $ 169.00 WEIGHT
620 g
DESCRIPTION
Perfect for those who want a waterproof floor, but don't need full bug protection. FEATURES
e Clips into Hex 3 canopy at 6 cor-
e Abrasion resistant Cordura centre
pole patch e 6000 mm waterproof floor
e 4-inch bathtub design
HEX 3 NEST (No pole)
ME.
GSavire
FEATURES
Price: $259.00 WEIGHT
1080 g net + 90 g pegs (if you already have the shelter then you wont need to take 2 lots of pegs and keep the weight down)
DESCRIPTION
The perfect companion to the Hex 3 shelter when you're heading into mosquito or insect-laden adventures. Can be pitched separately when desert camping.
e No-see-um mesh canopy e Full length 2-way C-shaped door zipper Foam cone pole seat at apex Pole Only Pole Only e Abrasion resistant Cordura centre pole patch e 6000 mm waterproof floor e 44-inch bathtub design Pole Only e 6 Stow sack Price: $85.00
Weight 370 g
GOLITE HEX 3 or 4 SEASON SHELTER
requires you to use poles, inner tent with floor and fly whenever you pitch it, the Hex 3 is a component system: You can use just the canopy with or without a floor, or just the bug net inner tent, or the canopy with the bug net. And you can pitch the Hex (canopy or Nest) over a paddle on a canoe trip, or over a ski pole on a ski-tour. Or hang the canopy via its top loop from a branch or a line sus- pended between trees. You can dig a snow pit under it and increase the amount of usable space; you can pitch it over rocks; and you can put it up quickly by yourself in the nas- tiest weather. How's that for versatility.
Dual roof vents provide excellent air flow, and the sup- plied extra guy lines can be used to pitch the leeward side (the side facing away from the wind)-well off the ground to increase ventilation. SiLite construction and the six- sided shape with extra stake-outs midway along each side add up to an incredibly wind-stable, weatherproof shelter. Functional details include reflective, adjustable guy points: the adjustability ensures a good, taut pitch, while the reflective strips simplify pitching the Hex in the dark (and mean that it's much easier to find your Hex when re- turing to camp after dusk - and less likely that you'll trip over a commer once you have…)
Available in Sun for people who want to be seen, and For- est for those who don't.
For even more versatility, there will be a new trekking pole extender that will enable you to leave the Hex 3 pole at home and use any standard trekking pole to pitch the Hex 3! Available soon
FEATURES
e SilLite silicone-impregnated rip stop nylon
Hexagonal shape sheds elements superbly
e Adjustable aluminium centre pole (also available as a separate item)
Top loop
2 large roof vents
2-way door zipper
Reflective adjustable stake out loops
9 Y-stakes
Floorless design
4-season palace for 2 or home for 3 Stake sack, SilLite stow sack included
THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER is the monthly bulletin of matters of interest to members of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc
PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565. Editor: Bill Holland Production Manager: Frances Holland
Printers: Kenn Clacher, Barrie Murdoch, Tom Wenman Don Brooks Fran Holland
SBW GEAR AUCTION
Its time for an Autumn Clean Out!
Bring your unwanted walking gear to the clubrooms and nab yourself a bargain
with Chief Auctioneer Patrick James Wednesday 21% April - 8pm and let us help clean out your spare rooms!
Strict NO JUNK policy
(Money raised can be donated to the Coolana Fund)
. Annual Subscriptions. Naw Due *- The Antal: General. Meeting: dtennined. that the SBW. Annual. Subscriptions for 2004 would, ber . Singte Membership. - $45-
, ) ayo Please return this withy -youis a home : * These subscriptions d do not: ab to: Propet Members
Death of Graham Young:
Graham Young, a keen bushwalker with SBW in the nineties, died on 18“ February 2004 - see Page 9
The Sydney Bushwalker: Fi Official publication of The Syi | Page 2
T he Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004
The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc. Our Club was formed in 1927 for the purpose of bringing bushwalkers together; enabling them to appreciate the great outdoors; establishing a regard for conservation and promoting social activities. The Club's main activity is bushwalking but includes other activities such as _ cycling, canoeing and social events. Our Walks Programme (published quarterly) features day walks on most Saturdays and Sundays, some mid week walks and overnight weekend walks. Extended walks are organised in areas such as Lamington, Snowy Mountains etc as well as interstate. Our meetings are held every third Wednesday evening at 8 pm at Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, Kirribilli (near Milsons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members are welcome. General Enquiries: Phone 0500 500 729 SBW Website www.sbw.org.au
Treasurers Report - February
This is my last monthly report in my role as the clubs Treasurer. The following is my report on the clubs finances which are in a healthy state. Set out below are the figures for February.
Bank Balance 1* February $2,744 Income Received
Membership fees 95 Advertising in magazine 955 Total Receipts 1,050 Expenses _ Paid
Internet web site hosting 264 Magazine postage 397 Coolana rates 253 Social expenses 83 Prospectives expenses 54 Other 87 Total payments 1,138
Bank Balance 29” February $2,656
Thank you for your readership over the past two years, I have enjoyed my time as Treasurer for the club.
Maurice Smith
Membership List
A new List of Members as at 31% January 2004 was mailed out to all members in February. Please check your membership details and in the event of errors, changing residence or new telephone numbers, please advise the Membership Secretary, Ron Watters in writing.
Presidents Report:
Our March meeting marked the end of two years that I have been president of the club and was an opportunity to look at some of the issues that we had touched upon but which the incoming committee may choose to embrace. One of those is the procedure to assist newcomers to the club to move to full membership. I suspect that this is something that every committee over the years has considered.
In pursuit of this Caro Ryan and I conducted a weekend walk in February of short distance along the Six Foot track from Megalong Road down to the Coxs. The walk was designed for people who had never had an overnight pack on their back. We had five starters all of whom bounced along full of enthusiasm and keen to learn the ropes. The weather was not kind to us in that it was heatwave conditions and therefore somewhat testing. Nevertheless it demonstrated the need to ensure that plenty of water was carried and consumed and that sometimes a walk has to be curtailed to cater for the conditions. We ended up spending the afternoon submerged in the river at a spot that we shared with some cows grazing peacefully on the other side. There was a total fire ban and therefore a cold meal was the order of the day. We hope to be able to conduct a similar walk in the winter program where the ritual of collecting firewood and cooking by the fire can be experienced.
The committee has resolved to purchase a data projector that will assist in providing top class presentations for our social evenings. This equipment was used during the year but had been borrowed and we were convinced that it was a worthwhile and valuable asset.
Many thanks to my fellow committee members who have provided huge support and enthusiasm dumng the year. And again many thanks to the army of helpers working behind the scenes.
Rosemary MacDougal
Insurance Claims:
The NSW Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs has asked that we note the following changes to the procedure for making an insurance claim. Please contact:
Fred Grima
Marsh Pty Lid
85 George St
Parramatta NSW 2150
Notification of intention to make a claim should be given no later than 30 days after the date of injury. A claim form will be forwarded for completion and retumm to Marsh Pty Ltd
| The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004 Page 3 |
THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The 76“ AGM was held on Wednesday 10” March with approx 50 members attending. There are very few new faces in the list of office bearers (shown below). The meeting moved votes of thanks to President Rosemary for fine efforts through the year and to the retiring Committee members.
The motion to donate the clubs shareholding in Natural Areas Ltd was passed as were the four motions concerning the Coolana Funds.
Barry Wallace will give a full report of proceedings in next months magazine.
% Your New Committee Is and the Non-Committee Office Bearers are: , Delegates to Confederation: President: Maurice Smith ; Maurice Smith ~ vacant - Vice-President: Rosemary MacDougal Magazine Production Manager: Fran Holland Public Officer: ~ vacant - Magazine Business Manager: - vacant - Treasurer: - vacant - Printers: Kenn Clacher Barrie Murdoch Secretary: Leigh McClintock Tom Wenman Don Brooks Fran Holland Walks Secretary: Peter Love Web Master: John Bradnam Social Secretary Caro Ryan Archivist: Shirley Dean Membership Secretary Ron Watters * Hon Solicitor: Richard Brading New Members Secretary: Grace Martinez * Hon Auditor: ~ vacant - Conservation Secretary: | Pamela Irving Coolana Committee: Magazine Editor: Bill Holland Don Finch Joan Rigby _ Patrick James Barry Wallace Heike Krausse Search and Rescue Contacts: Delegates to Confederation: David Trinder Pam Morrison Jim Callaway - vacant - Kosciusk bepeame * . osciusko Hut Delegates: New to Committee Tan Wolfe Kenn Clacher
Are you over 607 Would you like to WIN A $7,500 EAST COAST ADVENTURE?
Get Up & Go, the official Seniors Card travel How to enter: Simply tell them about a travel-
magazine, has launched its 2004 search to find the senior with the most get up and go. The annual Award is about the spirit of
a multitude of ways (YES, that includes Bushwalking)}).
Coast Adventure for two people with Travelmarvel, travelling from Cairns to Sydney.
adventure. It is a celebration of people over 60 who are living life to the full by travelling in
The winner will receive a $7,500 14 day East
based adventure you have had as a senior. Write about the trip in no more than 500 words and send it with your name, age, address, telephone number to:
Get Up & Go
G9/1-15 Barr Street
Balmain NSW 2041
Nominations close 30 May 2004
(Must be over 60 and have completed the travel over 60. Must beAustralian Citizens
or permanent resident.
More info: www.getupandgo.net.au
or 02 9810 0493.
[Page 4 The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004
Your New President: Towards the end of 2003 I was asked if I would consider standing for the role of President when Rosemary MacDougal retired from that a role at the March 2004 AGM.
After some consideration I decided that I would indeed relish the additional challenges that role would bring were I to be elected. For me, to take on the role of President is a great honour and in so many ways the culmination of my membership in Sydney Bush Walkers. I am truly honoured to be entrusted with this role.
I was living in Hobart capital of the lovely Apple Isle down south when I started my bushwalking career in 1991. When I mentioned to a bushwalking colleague in Hobart that I was to shortly move back to Sydney his immediate reaction was well as soon as you arrive back there you will have to join Sydney Bush Walkers. Thus it was that I joined our club as a reasonably raw bushwalker back in 1992. I have been ever grateful for that advice from my Hobart colleague.
Shortly after becoming a full member and being welcomed into the club by the then President Jan Debert back in December 1992 I quickly commenced leading club walks. Initially these were day walks then subsequently weekend walks.
Over the past decade I have lead a great many memorable trips that have involved a large number of club members. In the give and take that characterises a large social element of our club trips our members have smoothed off many of my rough edges.
Since becoming the Clubs Treasurer in the March 2002 AGM I have learned a great deal about the inner workings of the club. This includes how a great many members volunteer so much of thei free time to ensure that the clubs operations run smoothly and that we take the necessary steps to ensure that our future as a top-notch recreational walking club is assured.
In working with the new committee I will do all that is in my capability to ensure that the committee of 2004 continues to strive for excellence in all aspects of bushwalking, especially in the walks on our program and in trip leadership. I believe that with the committee just elected our club is well positioned to continue to be a great bushwalking club.
If you have any concerns about any aspect of how our club operates please dont hesitate to contact me or any other committee member. I particularly welcome constructive suggestions on how to make the club an even better club. I look forward to meeting you in the bush sometime soon. Enjoy your bushwalking. Maurice Smith
But The Editor Is Unchanged:
I am writing this note after attending the Annual General Meeting. Congratulations to all of the elected office bearers and, in_ particular, congratulations to Maurice Smith, our new President.
An introduction to Maurice is shown in the adjacent column and details of the other office bearers are shown on the previous page. Next months magazine will include a report of the rather lively nature of this years AGM
In the absence of competition ie no one else put there hand up - I continue as Editor for the coming year. This rather spoilt the rather touching farewell message I had drafted before going to the meeting.
This month we have an article which will appeal to the growing number of GPS users in the club. These modem day marvels feature on most of our bushwalks and remove some of the doubt often expressed as where in the hell are we?
The old-time bushies did not need these fancy navigation aids. Clios contribution to our Out of the Past series harks back to 1929 with extracts from Tom Herberts diary showing how our early club members experienced extended long weekend walks.
Then we have the regular features on Coolana, Conservation, Walks Pages, Heikes advice to new members and Caros report on social activities etc. Its good to see that Barry Wallaces computer has made a complete recovery and Barry resumes his walk notes this month.
I look forward to preparing your magazine in the coming months and hope you, the members will continue to submit letters, articles, reports and photos of interesting club events Bill Holland
Contact The Editor:
Copy for publishing in the SBW magazine should
be received by the Editor by the end of the first rae Week of each month. Letters stating your
Ge »_ viewpoint on matters of interest are most welcome.
Please send your submission in by mail (preferably typed), on floppy disc, by fax or by email addressed to The Editor Telephone: 9484 6636 Email: billholi@hotkey.net.au Fax: 9980 5476 (phone 9484 6636 first)
First Aid Training Course The next First Aid Training Course conducted by the Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs will be 29th, 30th May - see Autumn Walks Programme
The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004 Page 5
Letters to the Editor:
DA] Long Overdue Thank You A quick glance back in our clubs archives
reveals that the position of Production Manager first appeared in March 1982. As the magazines first issue was in 1931, there must
have been many club members who took ~
responsibility for organizing the magazine process to the members long before the official position appeared.
Our first acknowledged Production Manager was Helen Gray and over the next Il years Helen and George Gray shared the title. Bull and I took over the production of your magazine in March 1993 when Helen and George moved south.
As I am sure you are aware the production is not down to one person and we have a wonderful team of helpers who come, when possible, each month (with enthusiasm Im pleased to say) to our home out in the back blocks of Westleigh to put the magazine, walks programme etc together. Over half of these members, I am almost certain, have been doing this regularly since 1982 and possibly before, and some are occasionally asked to provide the venue when we go walkabout.
Much is made each month of our wonderful dinner which follows the work, but once again the thanks go to all the club members who arrive with their contribution to the resulting feast.
So, a heartfelt Thank You to our current helpers on call each month (see below) , and all those helpers of past years, who have made my role much easier.
Fran Holland
Helpers:
Christine Austin Lorraine Bloomfield Don Brooks Jacqui Calandra Alex Colley Anita & Alan Doherty Rosslyn & Bob Duncan Heather Finch
Spiro Hajinakitas Ray Hookway Patrick James Don Matthews George Mawer Marion Plaude Fazeley Read Dot & Peter Stitt Grace & Geoff Wagg Tom Wenman
Peter Yardley
DX Lord of The Rings Thank you so much for entering into the spirit of my Quest of the Kowmung' article (February), by including the wonderful illustration from Lord of the Rings'. Frodo and Samwise approaching the Mountam of Doom, evil Nazguls circling, reflected just how I felt at times on the Kowmung. I laughed and laughed.
Seeing the article published has proved very therapeutic, as I've been able to find humour in a distinctly non-funny situation. I've got a frozen shoulder as a result of my fall on the walk and I have to live one-armed for up to a year. Everyday life is a series of challenges, and bushwalking on anything but a solid, unencumbered track is out of the question. Which rules out most SBW walks for me for a long while.
So thanks again, Mr Editor, for your inspirational treatment of my piece. Susie Arnott
First Aid Certificates To encourage leaders and members to get their St John's First Aid Certificate, the Club-will subsidise the cost of gaining an accredited Senior First Aid Certificate up to $50 and if combined with an accredited Remote Area First-Aid, up f0 $80.
Are you on the SBW Email List?
Once a month, we send out a friendly email to SBW Members and Prospectives.
The email acts as a reminder of the upcoming social event for the month, along with a short note on something of interest to our members. If you'd like to be added to the list, simply send an email to: social@sbw.org.au
YERRANDERIE Gost Town francis TRAcK. BUNGONIA CAVES. Wo6 WoG. NERRIGA
Via Penarth, Katoomba & Bisckheath for
| Kanangra Walls Mon & Wed at {1am. Frid at Zam |
Returns 4om Mon, Wad, Frid.
Via Stariights. Mikagong & Marulan fer
Retums 4 ony Tues, Thurs, Sur,
I Yerranderie Ghost Town first Saturday in each
month, retums Sun at tam {any Friday min 6) Group booking discaunis or charter service
Tel 0246 832344 Mob 0428 832 344 www.wildernesstransit.com.au
| Page 6 The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004
Its All Happening At Coolana !
During February the star posts for the SCA tree planting were delivered to the shelter shed. Wilf, Ros and Don with the use of a borrowed 4×4 moved the posts down to the flat stored in 4 bundles of 150 each. Shirley Gretel and Hilary have started selecting the positions for the plants and putting in posts to mark the spots. A new table donated by Joan and painted by Rowan was delivered to the shelter shed. A load of rubbish iron wire etc was taken up the hill in the trailer. The old wheelbarrow was repaired and it was noted that the shed is in need of repair. The weeds have been having a _ wonderful growing period and have out stripped the efforts of the small team of weeders. Bill
is and Fran spent several days mowing the flat and have brought a large area under control in time for the re-union.
A major tree planting effort is planned to coincide with the re-union and another will take place on the 27 -28“ March: all-welcome to assist.
I am pleased to report that members are coming forward with offers to assist with managing the Clubs Coolana property.
Patrick James is looking at the feasibility of installing a bio-degradable toilet and Robert Pallin has offered to help with Plan of Management for Coolana. This plan will help us in arriving at management decisions consistent with the property classification as a Wild Life Refuge.
Don Finch
If you are interested in assisting us with bush regeneration, weed control or general maintenance, please phone Don on 9452 3749
Easy Camping at Coolana:
Any time is an ideal time to rest and relax at Coolana. Why dont you spend a day or two at the Clubs property at Coolana ? There is ideal camping space and camp fires are permitted at Coolana at all times ;. Other than when total fire bans apply to the Shoalhaven area.
in Campers are asked to use the indicated fireplaces to avoid scarring the camping ground. Please use only fallen timber and ensure that your fire is completely extinguished before retiring to your tent. Also. be aware of the danger from falling branches and avoid camping under the wattle trees.
EPIRB Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
SBW has purchased an EPIRB for use by club members, in particular walks
leaders. If you would like to take the EPIRB for a walk give Leigh McClintoch a ring on 8920 2386 and arrange to collect it.
The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004
Page 7 |
Threat to The Tarkine
Tasmanias forests are a prized national asset; some of the trees were old when white man first came. These forests are bemg logged at a furious rate and over 80% of logs end up as woodchip for the Japanese pulp mills. Other smaller trees that get m the way of clear felling are left on the forest floor and burnt. Native animals tempted by newly planted seedlings are poisoned with 1080 laced carrots. The forest is replanted with natives, sometimes with a single species, which has, as one scientist put it, as much biodiversity as a car park.
It seems a strange way to treat a national forest treasure, but to make it worse some of our super contributions and tax money pays for it. At the heart of the practice is Gunns Limited, a billion dollar company whose share price has risen 900% in the last five years, all driven by woodchips. Gunns have a unique political alliance, which ensures that Tasmania clear fells and chips more old growth forest than any other state. Gunns is a prize client and close partner of the Governments forestry arm, Forestry Tasmania. Both major political parties agree with this aggressive forestry policy. People who question it are labelled anti-jobs and the company operates behind a veil of secrecy. How many trees are cut? Where? For how much? are unknowns.
The Tarkine, Tasmanias largest unprotected wilderness area, is in the north west of the island. It is bounded by the Arthur River on the north, The Pieman River on the _ south, Murchison Highway on the east and the Southern Ocean on the west. The area satisfies the entire cultural and natural heritage criterion for inclusion in the world heritage list. The area was put forward for listing in the early 90s. Its area is 377,000 hectares (equivalent in area to a 60km by 60km square), 42% is rainforest, 90% of the rainforest is old growth and only 15% of the original rainforest remains. The Savage River Rainforest area has had some form of protection since 1982. The Tarkiness rainforests form the largest continuous tract of rainforest in Australia. On a global scale the Tarkine contains one of the worlds most
David Trinder
significant tracts of temperate rainforest, second only in size to those in Western Canada. Temperate rainforest is the rarest and most threatened type of rainforest.
The current logging operation in north west Tasmania is clear fell followed by replacement with plantations. Some operations are selectively logged, but in those cases the result is the same because many of the remaining trees die from myrtle wilt. Logging pure rainforest on public land has been banned on all mainland states for a long time.
Many of the forest timbers are good quality and can be used for furniture, however only 10% of the timber is used for this purpose and 90% becomes gg, woodchip.
: The Tarkine landscape includes spectacular wild coastlines battered by the roaring 40s and the Norfolk and Meredith Ranges. It includes grand rivers, the Arthur, the only river system without a
: pide: dam and the Pieman and some wild rivers, waterfalls and cave systems. The Tarkine contains 54 species of fauna and flora that are threatened or endangered.
Tasmanias Deputy Premier has recently announced plans to lift the 20 year moratorium on the Tarkine. His intension is to go for the heart of the Tarkine rainforest to take the Deep Red Myrtle. When some Myrtles are taken up to 70% of the remainder will die from the fungal disease myrtle wilt. This announcement shows how regressive the Tasmanian Government is, for not only are they lifting a moratorium that has been held by Liberal and Labour Governments for 20 years but they are about to log an ancient rainforest, a practice that has not been followed in any other state for a long time.
The Australian Conservation Foundation is asking for people to write letters to the Federal leaders to help with a campaign to save to Tarkine, you can find a suggested letter on their web site. www.acfonline.org.au.
References; Australian Conservation Foundation, ABC Four Corners as recorded by the ACF web site, The Wilderness Society.
* The two pictures are as shown on the Tarkine Confederation web site.
[Page 8
The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004
QO: My GPS receiver will not accept Latitude Longitude coordinates. A: Change the coordinate system from
Deg/Min/Sec to Deg/Min/MM.
QO: My GPS receiver does not acquire satellites. A: Check the initial position, time and date displayed
Q:
in the GPS to be sure they are correct. Initialization can take up to 10 minutes with a clear view of the sky.
Why does my GPS receiver show I'm moving when I'm standing still?
A: The GPS satellites may on rare occasion broadcast
Q:
a signal error that can account for up to 2.5 mph of movement.
Why does the elevation fluctuate on my GPS receiver?
A: The accuracy of GPS elevation may vary +/- 15-
FIO
B'S
etd
iS
20 metres due to random errors caused by atmospheric delay, incorrect satellite positioning or poor geometry in the satellite constellation.
: What is the accuracy of my GPS
The relative accuracy of GPS is 15 metres. However, there are factors that may affect the accuracy of GPS.
What factors affect the accuracy?
Other factors limiting the accuracy of GPS include but are not limited to atmospheric distortion and multi-path. Increased atmospheric distortion can be caused by periods of high solar flux/activity. Multi-path is the reception of two signals from the same satellite, one being the true signal and the other being the reflected signal from a building or a cliff.
: How do I remove scratches from the face ofmy GPS
There is a small tube of scratch removal paste sold by Swatch under the name of “polywatch” excellent kit for plastic watch faces and the like. The tube is about the size of your little finger. Put some on the face of your GPS and rub with cotton wool for about 3-4 mins! (Not suitable for
glass).
Do I have to leave my GPS receiver on to track
my position?
If you want a record of the track history or follow a route, leave your GPS turned on. Otherwise, it is not necessary.
Q: What is the difference between ROUTES and
TRACKS in my GPS
Routes are generally made up of a series of significant points along your path. The GPS will tell you the bearing and distance to the next point in sequence as you navigate along your route. Each point is usually named (in fact, a route is usually just a sequence of waypoints).
Tracks are made up of data gathered automatically from your motion while the GPS is tumed ON.
They provide a record of where you've been, and
GPS FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The following FAQs have been copied from: www.magellangps.com and www.gpsoz.com.au.
when, so you can later determine your path and speed. There may be hundreds or thousands of such points in a track, but they are all anonymous. They don't have names and you can't easily get the location of any particular one.
Q: What is WAAS (Wide Area Augmentation System )
A:
all about?
WAAS is a set of ground stations that send correction signals to a set of WAAS satellites. These in turn broadcast back to your GPS. If your GPS is capable of receiving these correction signals, your accuracy will improve to around 3m
It was originally designed when accuracy was typically +/- 100m ie when SA was switched on. There are no ground stations in Australia and no plans to build any. Hence WAAS correction information is not available in Australia and very unlikely to be.
Q. Can I use rechargeable batteries in my GPS? A. Yes you can with a couple of points to note:
Q.
Rechargeable batteries are slightly larger in diameter then normal batteries. For tight fitting battery compartments like the Garmin 45, you may have trouble removing them.
GPS units do not have recharging circuity within them so don't expect them to be recharged if you plug in an external power source. The battery indicator will not read a true reading of the state of the batteries. When rechargeables are fully charged they may still read only 90% on the battery gauge. Also they battery gauge will tend to read high, maybe 50%+ until about the last 10% of the batteries charge. This is a characteristic of the way in which rechargeables discharge not a fault with he GPS unit.
What is a Datum?
A. Datums affect the positions of Latitude/Longitude
Q. A. If you have two charts of the same area and they
and local grid systems (UTM, British National Grid etc). The latitude and longitude of places on a chart or map depend on what mathematical shape is used to represent the Earth when the chart or map is drawn. Different shapes get used for mapping different areas of the world and these are known as ellipsoids. A datum references a particular ellipsoid known as the reference ellipsoid. Different datums can also have different origins and rotations. Both these factors affect the numerical representation of a position.
So how does this affect me?
have been drawn on different datums, then the latitude and longitude for the same place is likely be different on each chart. In Australia the difference between an AGD66 and a WGS84 charted position can be up to 200 metres The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004 Page 9
A new datum (from 2000) the Geocentric Datum of Australia (GDA) was defined in 1994 as best fitting the shape of the earth as a whole. A major implication of this change is that GDA coordinates differ from their AGD predecessors by approx 200 metres in a north-easterly direction. If you plot a GPS latitude and longitude on a map which uses a different datum, you must apply some corrections otherwise you will plot your position in the wrong place. Mapping software such as OziExplorer will usually do these corrections for you. CHECK YOUR DATUMS CAREFULLY- all grid systems which you use for navigation must relate to the SAME datum.
Q Can I display maps on my GPS that have been uploaded from my computer
A. The only software that can do this is that provided by the GPS manufacturer using the maps provided by the manufacturer.
QO: My GPS receiver will not communicate with my computer.
A: Make sure the GPS Baud rate is set to 4800. If
using a Magellan GPS try a Baud rate setting of 9600, Set GPS NMEA to 0183B or 2.1 GSA . Set COM port to 4800 baud, 8 bits per second, no parity, one stop bit and set flow control to hardware. Disable or remove any conflicting software from the COM port, such as answering machines, fax, personal organizers, etc.
Sleep under a_
Death of Graham Young:
Graham Young, a keen bushwalker with SBW in the nineties, died on 18” February 2004, after an 8 year battle with cancer.
Graham lived at Ryde in Sydney, Darwin in the Northem Territory and Kuranda in Far North Queensland over the past 10 years or so. During the times he worked and lived outside Sydney, Graham took pleasure in a few bushwalks during his holidays back home.
Graham had a great passion for nature, first displayed when as a very young child he lived at Glenbrook. Graham had a good life and loved so many things that life offered. His interests were broad and he could hold a knowledgeable conversation on topics ranging from the sciences to the arts and world issues. He loved cricket and baseball and he enjoyed good food, good wine and good coffee.
His family and many friends are devastated by his death
On Reimbursement Of Travel Costs:
The club encourages car sharing as an environmentally friendly and a good way to meet other club members. The Committee thinks that a simple formula for reimbursement of car costs should apply and recommends 10 cents per kilometre shared by all the occupants in the vehicle including the driver.
However, individual drivers may suggest any amount they choose and this should be discussed with the passengers at the commencement of the trip
blanket of : tars
Leave the stress af the city behind and wander
through wilderness where no vehicie will ever go
Imagine yourself walking through a land where
you enjoy daily swims In cleay, tropical scols
you camp in beautiful places. shared by no one but your waiking comsanions
* you relax by the campfire whe your guide prepares you a delicious three course niea!
@ the only signs of man are Aboriginal rock paintings
the weather 's so perfect that you can sleep under the stars wih no need for a tent.
Heavy pack? Not unless you want one. You need
no more than @ ka on any of our shorter walks.
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|Page 10 The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004
A Bushwalker's Diary - Extracts From Tom Herberts Diary
Clio has prepared A Bushwalker's Diary offering extracts from Tom Herbert's Diary for publication. This month we look at how Tom and other early SBW members spent Easter and the other long weekends in 1929 -75 YEARS AGO.
EASTER 1929
28/3 Rose early and packed my pack which I took to the Railway Cloakroom. At lunch time drove home and changed my clothes and returned to work by tram. Left the office at 4.45 and met a party of the Bushwalkers Club and we caught the train to Mittagong. There were two parties and we all camped at Gibbergunnyah Creek.
29/3 Beautiful sunny day. (Easter) Our party [of 8] set out and entered the Nattai Valley by the Gap road. We followed the Gap Creek which joins the Nattai River. The scenery was wonderful. We pitched three small light tents at night.
30/3 Glorious sunny day. We set off at an easy pace after breakfast and enjoyed the scenery immensely. Our party was very happy and in fine holiday spirits. We overtook Myles Dunphy's party [two club tnps in the same area] and they camped with us at night.
31/3 Glorious sunshine. ] was separated from the party for some time but caught up later. Passed Macarthur's Flat, a wonderful spot. At night camped on a flat opposite the junction of the Nattai and Little Rivers.
1/4 Another fine sunny day. We had stewed rabbits for breakfast. We loitered about after breakfast and then slowly winded our way up the old road, up the pass. Had dinner at the waterfall. We then took an easy pace and had a meal of eggs later on. Reached Thirlmere and caught a train about 7.15. A glorious holiday.
Kings Birthday Weekend
1/6 Caught 11.55 train to Wentworth Falls with Jack Debert and Walter Macqueen. We walked from there into Burragorang Valley and camped.
2/6 Sunny. After waiting four hours at the “sunken road” the other party met us. [Presumably these were people who, committed to Saturday morning work, weren't able to catch the midday train]. We camped at Brimstone Gully for the night and had an enjoyable campfire where religious questions were debated.
3/6 Sunny day. (King's Birthday) We made slow progress through Brimstone Gully which proved to be exceedingly rough. We at last emerged onto the road at the top of the Valley and after walking a few miles we hired a car to take us to Camden.
Eight Hour Holiday Weekend
4/10 Spent a good part of the day packing for the week-end hiking trip. Went into town at 2 p.m., had my hair cut and did some shopping. Caught the 8.45 pm train to Tallong with about 20 members of the Bushwalkers Club. We were driven by motor truck a few miles out and camped for the night.
5/10 We descended a very steep mountain to the Shoalhaven Valley and pitched a permanent camp. We took lunch and went for a short hike down stream and spent the day swimming and lazing around. Had a campfire concert and debate on “Chivalry” .
6/10 Sunny and warm. Went for a hike towards Bungonia Cave but did not reach these. Found a roughly made canoe and shot the rapids. We had impromptu speeches at the campfire. I spoke on “Modern Girls Dress” and “Estate Agents”.
7/10 Windy and unpleasant. (Eight-Hour Public Holiday) We spent the morning quietly and about midday packed up and began the very steep ascent. Had lunch at the top and then walked to Tallong and after a dip in the creek caught the train to Sydney. We had great fun and frolic in the carriage on the way back. It was a great holiday. There were twenty-nine in the party altogether. Whether it's bush walking, mountaineering, cross-country skiing, trek- king or travel, a pack is your best friend or worst enemy. Why? Because you depend on the agility and comfort that your pack provides.
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All packs personally fitted by our experienced Staff. [Page 12 The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004 THE WALKS PAGES Walks Notes: Period 24th Nov to 14th Jan way to Deer Pool.
Carol Lubbers walk to Box Creek Falls over the weekend of 29, 30 November went, with a party of 9. Im not certain that Carols use of snoring in the list of difficulties/hazards for the trip would qualify it for addition to Kenn Clachers list of standard hazards, but there again, perhaps it is already there. Would someone with a copy please check for me. Rosemary MacDougal led a party of 9 on her walk over to Bundundah Creek from Yalwal and back that same weekend in hot conditions over terrain burnt out by bushfires earlier in the year. For the day walks that weekend Ron Watters led a party of 9 out from Gambells Picnic Area near Bundanoon in Morton National Park and Patrick McNaught led some 11 souls on a venture from Golden Stairs, and a sub-set of that through Rennies Tunnel under Narrowneck. As the program suggested Rennies Tunnel wasnt for everyone. Ron Watters party spent most of the day in cool and damp creeks with lots of greenery, with the first and last sections accomplished on a well formed tourist track and road respectively.
We do not seem to have a report for Wilfs midweek walk, scheduled for Thursday 4 December.
Things were not much better for the weekend of 6, 7 December with no report for Stephen Dolphins Qualifying walk to Ettrema, Jones and Myali Creeks. Cathy Gero reported a party of 12 starters and 8 finishers for her Sunday Qualifying walk from Berrowra to Brooklyn. Conditions were moderated somewhat by cloud cover, with temperatures around 25 degrees.
Caro Ryan led a silent walk from Victoria Falls to Perrys Lookdown over the weekend of 13, 14 December with a party of 4 and quiet conditions. They were dazzled by the display of fireflies around the evening campfire and also reported quite a lot of brumby sounds around them through the night. Of the two Saturday walks that weekend Maureen Carter led a party of 5 on her walk from Waterfall to Heathcote and Allan Wells had 6 starters for his trip through Bell Creek Canyon. Maureen reported hot weather conditions and some sections of obscured track with fallen trees from the bushfire two years ago. There is not a lot of detail in Allans report but one could safely assume that cooler conditions prevailed in at least some sections of the route. Errol Sheedy led a walk in the Royal on the Sunday, with a party of 7 and a trio of part timers who sheered off to Otford at moming tea. The main party practiced a spot of orienteering and narrowly avoided a very large black snake on the
The weekend of 20, 21 December, possibly due to its proximity to Christmas, attracted only day walks. Of these, Peter Love led a party of 4 on his qualifying walk out from Wentworth Falls on the Saturday, there was no report for Wilf Hilders stage ?? of the great river walk, and Maurice Smith had 6 starters on his Sunday trip in the Megalong Valley. Conditions were hot and much swimming was had.
Kenn Clacher led a party of 7 on his walk in the Victorian Alpine Park over the period 26 December 03 to 1 January 04. It was a long drive there and back; quite a nice walk. Paul McCanns Nymboida National Park walk from 26 December 03 to 3 January 04 did not attract any SBW starters. Maurice Smith led a trip down the Kowmung River from 27 December 03 to 4 January 04. There were 7 starters and a number of interesting events. An account of this walk will have appeared in the magazine recently. There was another, somewhat easier trip in the vicinity of the Kowmung as well, with Tony Manes leading a party of 10 to a camp site on the Kowmung from the Yerranderie Road over the period 26, 28 December. At least it was expected to be easy but Hughie had other ideas, with the party being smitten by a fiercely hot day on the way in to the campsite. The number of bush flies was also quite impressive. The trip out was better, with a cooling breeze to ease the journey. Michael Bickley led 3 starters on an OK tip involving walking and messing about in boats on Friday 26“ December.
The weekend between Christmas and New Year did not attract a lot of programmed activity but Jim Callaway was out on the Sunday with a party of three for his walk from Waterfall to Heathcote. The walk went safely with a mixture of tracks and several swims along the way. No report appears to have been received for the other walk that day, Jan Rannards walk from Wentworth Falls to Katoomba.
There was even a walk on New Years Day, under the baton of Michael Bickley with 12 starters. It was described as an OK walk and despite the proximity to Taronga Zoo I am confident Michaels navigation did not expose the party to the hazard of crocodiles as cautioned in the list of hazards.
As an aid to the deadline for these notes there were no reports received for walks programmed for 3, 4 January of the New Year.
There has been a report elsewhere in this journal for Bill Hollands Balmoral Beach evening walk on 7 January. The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004
Page 13
No report has been received to date for Wilfs Colo River base camp over the weekend of 10, 11 January. There were also three day walks that weekend. Alan Wells led a party of 6 on his walk through Rocky Creek Canyon in the Blue Mountains on the Saturday and Maureen Carter had 10 out on her walk in The Royal on the Sunday. Conditions were hot and the tide was high with a significant swell running so they improvised a bit. The waves that washed them out of a couple of the rock pools were still a surprise but the swim did help cool the party for the ascent of Era Ridge.
Ron Watters had a trip out from the landing ground in Wingeilo state Forest the same day with 1] starters in hot and sunny conditions. The roos waved them farewell and good riddance from the landing/grazing ground as they departed in the late afternoon.
Bill Hollands midweek evenmg walk from Bondi to Coogee on Tuesday 13 has already been reported.
All of which brings the walks reports for the period to acclose. There is still a bit of catching up to do but the replacement hard drive and mother-board seem to be holding up well. It does give those with a conscience about reports a chance to mend their ways, perhaps. Barry Wallace
Wednesday 21 April - 8pm The Gear Night
Walking and Relaxing in The Heat: Hello Bill ! Im in Sydney and would like to join your walk. So with Ian Debert and Joy Hines (the Grey Nomads) putting in an appearance in Sydney after so many years it seemed the ideal opportunity to invite some of their old (but not too old) walking companions to join us on the scheduled walk in the Berowra Valley and the barbecue to follow.
The day was hot - near 40 degrees but five
went walking in the morning on the shady side of Berowra Valley whilst six or seven stayed home talking, swimming, eating and relaxing. Back at noon for a long lunch, then out walking again, this time on the other side of the ridge (now shady) . Youre mad! said the others, who stayed home talking, swimming, eating and relaxing. I guess we were a little mad - walking in that heat - but coming home again, through the front gate and almost straight into the swimming pool made it worthwhile.
Bill Holland
Leaders! Your Editor welcomes reports of interesting or unusual walks or promotion of coming walks for The Walks Pages section of the magazine. Photos are particularly welcome. Please send direct to The Editor (see contact details on Page 4)
Gallery Room, Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre 3 great presentations in 1 night!!
How to Pack by Tony Manes
New Gear presented by Alpsport with special guest Kevin Chappel, Director of One Planet to talk about their lightweight packs and sleeping bags
The SBW Gear Auction by Chief Auctioneer Patrick James Bring in any gear that you dont use, for a fast n fun auction.
Pick up a bargain!
All proceeds to the Coolana Fund.
NO JUNK!
|Page 14 The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004
Walks Over the Easter Weekend
424 Easter in April is an ideal time for an extended walk. The weather is comfortable and there is reasonable <8 daylight in the evenings for enjoying the meal around the campfire. Four days walking provides time to access the more difficult or remote areas. SBW walks listed for Easter in the Autumn Walks Programme are shown below. Please refer to the Prograininis for details of leaders and contact numbers.
N orthern NSW - Bushwalking Tour 9 - 18” April: (Extended Easter Walking)
Mountains, rainforest, beaches, rocks, mud and sand. A walking tour of some of the great parks of northern NSW. Lots of variety; massive granite tors, wild river valleys, beautiful rainforest and spectacular waterfalls. Strict small party limit Grade: Medium
Kanangra Boyd NP_ A Silent Easter. Come along and spend 4 days and 3 nights, listening to the sounds of nature, reading, thinking or meditating down on the beautiful Kowmung River. Grade: Medium
Wollemi NP Mt Irvine - Wollangambe River etc. Untested passes, rock scrambling, wet feet and some rock hopping through magnificent gorges. Some swimming may be necessary. Grade: Medium / Hard 40km,
Blue Mountains Crossing Hilltop to Kanangra Side trip to edge of Laceys Tableland for great views to Axehead and Bonnum Pic. Mostly on tracks and fire trails. A good introduction to extended trips. Taxis required at both ends. Grade: Medium 65km.
Morton NP Yalwal -, Bundundah Creek - Ettrema Creek - Tullyangela Clearing. A classic cross country walk with some real challenges. Suited only to fit walkers who can handle rough country. Some Exposure.
Grade: Medium 20 km Walks Over the Anzac Weekend
Also an ideal opportunity with three days available for an extended walk. SBW walks listed for Easter in the Autumn Walks Programme are shown below. Please refer to the Programme for details of leaders and contact numbers.
Blue Mountains NP
Wollangambe area. An exploratory walk, nearly all off track. Rock scrambling. Interesting geomorphology, including pagodas, a creek that goes through a tunnel and a creek that runs along the top of a cliff for 800m.
Grade: Medium / Hard / Exploratory
Wild Dog Mountains Explore untouched areas of the Wild Dog Mountains, camp near the beautiful Mouin Falls, marvel at the views from Splendour Rock and travel along the lesser known ridges and creeks in this area. Grade: Medium
Kanangra Boyd NPs - Blue Breaks Kanangra - Cambage Spire - Axehead Range Mt. Relentless - Green Wattle Ck - Butchers Ck - Kowmung R - Roots Ridge - Kanangra Grade: Medium 70km
Barrington Tops NP The Mountaineer - Karuah River and out to the road. Beautiful rainforest. Gaiters advisable. Part exploratory. Grade: Medium
BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK ~ 23“ February 2004 At the weekend, a landslide oceurred above. Federal Pass near the Scenic Railway at Katoomba.
Until farther notice Furber Steps and Federal Pass are closed to public access. We are advised the area is - unstable and should not be used.
The Scenic World area and facitities is- operating as 5 usual. Operators should note. that access to the base of Katoomba Falls from the Scenic Railway is blocked by the landslide
Operators are asked to advise their guides that the area is closed and should not be ased.
Work on the area will commence'today. We are advised that Furber Steps is likely to be- closed at least for. the remainder of this week, and possibly longer. We will advise further as information. comes tohand. Please call if-you have any questions.
For updates and further information on, locations i in ihat general area call the NEWS Heritage Centre 0 on. 4787 8877 - open 7 days:9,00 amto4.30.pm..-
Bronwyn Batchelor | Commercial Licensirig Adniinistration - Blue Mouiitsins Region
The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004
Page 15
Wollemite Weekend
This was my first walk as a full member of SBW on the weekend of the 17” and 18th of January and I had been looking forward to it for weeks and weeks. Ian Thorpe had volunteered to lead this trip into the Wollemi near the 'town' of Bell and one of the big attractions was that we might visit the Wollangambe Crater. I had wanted to visit the Crater for years but had never been able to persuade friends to come with me.
The walk when I saw it on the schedule of SBW walks was listed as “easy” and Ian had said that there had been comments flying around at SBW about there not being enough easy walks for members and the newer less experienced members. I guess with these expressions in mindIan went ahead and organised a 4 hour walk in to a campsite on the Wollongambe near Bell and do you know how many eager beavers came along…….4.
Well no matter, I have always liked walking with small numbers and the people I met on this trip were great company.
We all met near Bell and drove to the start point somewhere north of the Bells Line. Once we started walking we had to skirt around some private property to avoid stirring up some unseen locals who are not keen on bushwalkers traipsing through their land.
There were absolutely smashing views over the Wollemi particularly from rocky pinnacles and over the next 3ish hours we popped in and out of scrub and light forest interspersed with pinnacles with great views to the east toward Mt Wilson and Mt Irvine and then northish toward that wild area of Nayook and Bungleboori Creeks.
The scenery in this area is amongst the best you get anywhere in the mountains. Rugged and little travelled it is too. Surprisingly navigation was somewhat difficult asthe map detailis not marvellous but through good compass work by Ian and contributions from us three in the peanut gallery we found our way down into the right place on the Wollongambe just upstream from the Wollongambe Crater. :
We arrived at our generous overhang campsite at about lunch time and went off for a well earned swim in the crystal clear and somewhat cold water of the Wollongambe. I had read much about swimming etiquette in the SBW newsletter and had wondered what mode of swimming would prevail. I confess to having been a little bit worried…..To be nude or not to be nude!? I am a fairly modest type so you can guess what I did. For those that need to know, we had segregated swimming and as I wasn't wearing my glasses I have no idea what the fashion actually was!
We all trundled down to the Crater in the afternoon and the more energetic of us (which included everyone except me) did a circuit of the crater. This crater is quite a pronounced feature not unlike a lumpy frying pan with a break in the side and from what I saw of the surrounding ridgeline it was very sharp so I could well imagine it being created by a Wallemi Meteorite (Wallemite). After our exploring
Mike Floyd
we took a shortcut over the ridgeline back to our cave and we had a little navigational deviation which took some figuring out. Its funny how shortcuts sometimes take longer than you think.
One thing I enjoy about bushwalking is that it is a social occasion as much as an ooh abhh look at that scenery experience and I really enjoyed the company around the campfire that night with Vicki and Heike and Jan who all had their own stories to tell.
Vicki. Happy Hour is a very good institution and I will make an effort to be ready for it on my next walk.
We all slept like logs and had one of the most comfortable nights in the bush EVER. In the morming we all wentoffon an exploratory trip upstream and on our return we retraced our steps back to the car returning just before 4pm in the afternoon.
I don't mind saying that at one point on the walk out I was pretty damn HOT but carrying enough water and wearing a good hat saw that I didn't become too bothered. In short it was the best weekend and it was spent with some new friends.
As a postscript.
For all those new members that might read this don't be put off by the thought of camping out on an overnight walk. With knowledgeable and lovely people around you who are all willing to help you out it will be a rewarding experience. To me the best thing about walking is not speeding through on a day walk but taking more time to absorb the feel of the bush by spending a night or more out in it with good company…..so next time you are cruising through the schedule of walks look at an overnighter that might suit your level of fitness and give the trip leader a ring. You don't need mountains of expensive gear. Just don't pick a hard walk for your first overnighter. Mike Floyd
The Midweek Walkers Group:
We maintain a list of members available for mid-
week camping, walks, cycling and other activities. A
newsletter is sent out every month or so advising of
programmed and off-programme activities.
Last year we has several successful extended
stays during the last three months; Deep Pass,
New England National Park and Berrara Beach.
Now for the rest of this year we are considering
the following:
e River Murray houseboat - probably leaving from Echuca in May/June. ..
e Car based camping/day walks somewhere interesting and different possibly coastal Southern Victoria.
e A repeat of our Wombean Caves four days that was so successful three years ago
e When the weather gets colder the holiday cottages near Jenolan or similar in Barrington Tops seem very attractive.
If you would like your name added to the list please
advise Bill Holland, phone 9484 6636 The Sydney Bushwalker March 2004 |
[Page 16
The Great River Walk The Final 2 Stages In The Autumn Program Roger Treagus
Since the first stage was walked back in October 2000 this has proved to be an absorbing series of walks often through remote and seldom walked country. But now finally we are in sight of the sea and the end of the walk at the official mouth of the Hawkesbury River at Elanor Bluffs. The second last stage is on April 4 and like many stages before it runs through seldom walked but beautiful country in the southern section of Popran NP past little river settlements like Greenmans Valley, Marlow and Bar Point. Mostly rugged and trackless we will be rewarded after the likely hard going by a ferry ride through Milsons Passage to Brooklyn. As always there may be the odd colourful river character to be met on the way.
The final stage on May 2 will continue past Brooklyn to the mouth where a little ceremony (photo op) will be performed and some beachside celebrations are planned. Rather than retrace our steps from the beach which would be an anticlimax we plan to be lifted off the beach by cruiser and then sail back to Brooklyn.
The Great River Walk Committee will be using all of the track information gathered over the years both with my walks and Wilf Hilders excellent Great River Walk series ( which has been mainly on the other side (right bank) of the river - see Autumn Program for Wilfs last 2 stages as well) to eventually propose a route network for a permanent long distance track. Come along for these last 2 stages. They will definitely be one off experiences and you can say you were there at the finish.
Advance Notices
Rocky Mountain High! - August to early October 04
I am going to Montana USA for 3 months holiday and intend doing a range of walks from Day to Multi Day trips (mostly 3 days and possibly some of 6 to up to 10 days ). In addition there will probably be some canoeing and or rafting tnps and visiting adjacent historical/cultural sites (Little Big Horn etc).
This will mainly be in the Glacier National Park and the adjoining Waterton National Park (over the border in Canada). This is the heart of “Big Sky Country” and is truly spectacular (remember the film “Shane”). Refer to the following web site for info and pictures http:/www.nps.gov/glac/whatsnew.htm
This will be their Summer to Autumn (Fall) with and thus ideal walking conditions. Yes, there are Bears, Cougars and Moose - but these are generally not a problem with appropriate orientation and behaviour.
I have free access to a sumptuous Lodge besides Bitter Route Lake just outside the Park and this will be used as a base for forays into the hills (sleeps 14). Thus expenses are shared running costs, food, travel and entry fees etc. People could come for 2 weeks or more and slot into and out of the program and do other things in the US pre or post walking.
Planning has commenced and thus I invite expressions of interest. Contact me, preferably by email via ian.wolfe@eds.com, or on the phone numbers below.
Tan Wolfe W9378 8885,H 9904 3370, Mobile 0414 886 706
Bill Capons Easter Walk This is an extended walk that should interest walkers of moderate fitness. It is a classic walk covering some of the most fascinating areas of the mountains and you will cover some of the ground that you go over should you ever decide to do the Mittagong to Katoomba walk. Yerranderie is a town of enormous interest; the only other access being by way of a long car journey over dirt roads. The walk has been put on the program specifically to attract those who want to take the next step in overnight walking. - see Autumn Walks Programme for further details
Kimberleys: Mitchell Plateau Area - Friday 28th May to Friday 11th June Kununurra by chartered plane to Mitchell Plateau,
helicopter to Donkins Falls then two weeks following gorges and water systems back to the spectacular Mitchell Falls. This walk is through remote Kimberley wilderness. Limited numbers. Leader: Rosemary McDonald 99050601 (h) or rosemary.mcdonald@bigpond.com
Notice - Camp Fires and Stoves
All members are advised to check the g restrictions on lighting fires in
intended camping areas.
Many national parks, reserves and * forest areas around Sydney have
Local Fire Bans which mean no fires of any nature are permitted
Forgotten Something ? Leaders - dont forget to send in your Walk Report forms The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004 Page 17 |
OF INTEREST TO NEW MEMBERS
Hetke Krausse
New Members:
Please welcome on your next walk: Graham Byrne Victoria Crabtree John Death,
Stuart Douglas Lynette Huang David Hodson Mary Liu Aldis Ozols Kellie Rees Wayne Scott Margery Smith Wendi Timms
Sophie Tyner Rebecca Waples, Helen Wright John De Zwart. .
(NB: this article is not a Hello from Heike, that is gone never to return! Contributions now will be ad hoc).
Galloping Gourmands or
Sustenance for Slogging it with SBW.
A common conundrum is what does one take to eat on an overnight walk and yet keep the pack weight down? I have a hand written copy of a food list from 1962 that includes Bacon IIb 20z, Peanut butter 60z, Honey 120z, Biscuits 1lb, Soup 3pkts, Rice IIb (brown), Butter 40z, Sugar brown1\b, white 120z. Someone had a sweet tooth!
The planned breakfast menu covered rolled cats, with sardines on toast/Nut meat on toast or Bacon on toast. What a variety! May not be to everybodys taste but they knew how to eat well with variety and to weigh with care their requirements.
Food for an overnight walk is not meant to be luxurious it is however important that the energy you are expending is replaced and not underestimating that meals are the chance to be social with time to rest and relax. Too much food and the pack is weighty and can make for miserable travelling. The following menu is what works for me to my taste and ability to carry for an overnight walk where I am travelling reasonably light.
Saturday:
Morning Tea: Muesli/Fruit bar.
Lunch: 4 Vita wheats with cheese and sun dried tomatoes, mini chocolate bar.
Afternoon tea: Handful of nuts or if taking more weight an Orange.
Happy hour: Bajii Mix\Spicy Rice Bits. Clarsac of wine (250mls).
Dinner: Tea, Cous Cous with beef and vegies. Hot chocolate.
Sunday:
Breakfast: Cup of tea, a pre-made vegemite English muffin or sandwich (wrap in gladwrap) toasted over the fire and a cup of coffee with milk
Morning Tea: As above
Lunch: Same as Saturday
Afternoon tea: Nuts.
So my food list for an overnighter is as follows:
2 muesii/fruit bars, 8 sandwich size vita wheats, 6 slices plastic cheese, 8 sun dried tomato pieces, 2 Mini Cherryripes, Bag of mixed nuts (preferably from the Peanut Van!) about 250g, an Orange, Packet Spicy Rice bits, Clarsac wine, % Cous cous, a stock cube, 4c dehydrated peas and corn mix, packet beef jerky shredded (last 4 items all mixed in a ziplock bag with a pinch each of cumin and coriander), 2 teabags, sachet hot chocolate, % c dried milk powder, film canister of coffee/ 2 coffee bags. Pre made Vegemite sandwich. Some treat to share eg, bag jubes/Fruit bon bons/coffee lollies.
Emergency supply of an extra muesli bar and packet cuppa soup. (Just in case of being stuck out for an extra night).
If able to travel with heavy food eg, because there is a cave camp and I dont need to take my tent, I can up the wine, take an extra piece fruit and my plunger coffee mug with fresh coffee and if being really luxurious a canister of pickle for my vita wheats and cheese with fruit cake for afternoon tea. Food fit for a feast!
Variations friends use that you can try are: packets of instant porridge for breakfast, packet tuna for lunch, % a packet pasta mix (variety of flavour choices) with a handful of dehydrated veg for dinner (again decant appropriate portion sizes for you into a ziplock bag if you wont eat it dont take the whole packet).
Basically everything is tasty (to me anyway), very quick to prepare requiring minimal campfire time and compact to pack both at home and in bush. Heike
Coolana Weekend
Fourteen prospective members and_ three members experienced very hot weather at Coolana for the training weekend in February
The weather was very, very hot and the river very, very low but still offered good swimming opportunities.
We conducted the training, chasing the shade and the walking component was reduced due to the heat. But by evening the warm and clear conditions made for a great extended happy hour around the campfire.
Weekend Walking Gear for Hire The club has a small pool of weekend walking equipment available for hire.
Contact: | Geoff McIntosh 9419 4619
| Page 18
The Sydney Bushwalker
March 2004
SOCIAL NOTES
Bi All,
Thanks to all the people who have responded with positive words about the monthly social emails that I send out. Februarys was definitely the biggest version Ive sent out to date with details about the Bushwalkers Body info night and LOADS of other interesting info like links to websites of interest to our members and some interesting off program social events. If you dont receive these, simply drop an email to me at social@sbw.org.au and ask me to add you in.
This month saw a delicious dinner at Dalat Thai & Vietnamese restaurant in Neutral Bay that catered to both the vegos and non-vegos in the club it was a great evening with walk stories and full tummies in abundance.
Apnils social event sees an ambitious attempt to combine all the info you could ever want regarding gear, into one evening! Thats right! This is a night for everyone - members and prospectives alike! Firstly, Tony Manes will kick off the evening talking us through the art & science (not quite alchemy) of successful packing, which will be followed by a presentation from Kevin Chappell who is the Director of the One Planet outdoor equipment company who will be speaking to us about their range of lightweight packs and sleeping bags (Kevin comes to us via Alpsport at West Ryde.)
Then, the moment weve all been waiting for will arrive. The position of Chief Auctioneer and Crowd Controller will be passed over to the illustrious Patrick James for the infamous SBW Gear Auction. This is your opportunity to not only buy or sell some of your gear whilst being entertained, but also to help raise some funds for the Coolana Fund. Now, be wamed, there is a strict NO JUNK policy attached to this evening which will be judged by yours truly and Patrick, so dont think youre getting rid of your Dunlop Volleys from 1972 or finding a home for your 12 year old fly, with only a few possum rips. So PLEASE bring all your unwanted items along on the night and we will help you clear out your storerooms.
(Prospectives please note that this may be a good opportunity to pick up some bargains to help build your kit!)
So see you then guys - Cheers Caro
How Many A Head ?
Three days in a row, a guy walked into the barber shop and asked, “How many people ahead of me?” The barber would tell him the number - four, six or whatever. On the fourth day when he walked in and asked, the barber said “Two,” and the guy ran out again.
“Where in hell does he go when he leaves here?” the barber asked the room in general. “Over to your house,” came the reply.
Goodbye Mother ! A young man was walking through a supermarket to pick up a few things when he noticed an old lady following him around. Thinking nothing of it, he
ignored her and continued on. Finally he
went to the checkout line, but she got in front of him.
“Pardon me,” she said, “I'm sorry if my staring at you has made you feel uncomfortable. It's just that you look just like my son, who just died recently.”
I'm very sorry,“ replied the young man, “is there anything I can do for you?”
“Yes,” she said, “As I'm leaving, can you say Goodbye Mother? It would make me feel so much better.”
“Sure,” answered the young man.
As the old woman was leaving, he called out, “Goodbye Mother!”
As he stepped up to the checkout counter, he saw that his total was $127.50.”How can that be?“ he asked, “I only purchased a few things!”
“Your mother said that you would
pay for her,” said the clerk.
Have You Changed Your Address?
If you have changed your address or phone number recently, please advise:
Members: _ Peter Love
Prospectives: Grace Martinez
The advice should be in writing directed to the Clubs postal address. This will ensure that our records show your current address and prevent delay in receiving the magazine each month.
24 - 25” April Splendour Rock Memorial There were many bushwalkers who served in the Australian armed forces during World War 2. To remember these fallen bushwalkers there is a memorial at Splendour Rock at the end of Mt Dinge in the Wild Dog Mountains. Anzac Day this year falls on a Sunday so Confederation will again be organising a dawn service at the Sptendour.Rock memorial. More details available by phoning 9622 0049
We have to use with skill what simple equipment we can
if you really want te get the best
out of what you carry with you,
carry on our backs to achieve shelter, prepare food and have a night's rest?
Paddy Pallin, 1900-1991
then move up to Black Diamond, exclusive to Paddy Pallin.
< Black Diamond
Black Diamond Moonlight Headtorch: Constantly frustrated with replacing your torch battery? Then the Moonlight is for you. WIth 4 ultra bright, energy efficient LED bulbs, it provides 70 hours of constant light. It weighs a mere 90g (without batteries) so you'll hardly know you're
carrying it. Ideal for night walking, cooking and reading.
Black Diamond Contour Trekking Pole: Trekking poles dont just
soem cence Bree ee pe improve your balance and
reduce the strain on your lower limbs; they help re-distribute the toad to your upper limbs as well, meaning you can keep going for longer The Contour, featured, is ideal for comfort over long periods of walking with an ergonomic 15 degree correction angle in the upper shaft and soft dual density hand grip. It also features a unique NEW adjustment system,
making these the most easily adjusted poles on the market.
Black Diamond Betamid Tent: When you want to go ultra-light or you need extra storage space, the Betamid has you covered. This compact,
floorless tent will go anywhere and pitches using a pair of trekking poles!
NS Weighing in at a fraction over 1kg, it sleeps two and stands strong %t
\ against the elements. (Optional, detachable tub floor is also available.)
Store locations: Sydney: 507 Kent Street Miranda: 527 Kingsway * Parramatta: 74 Macquarie Street e Katoomba: 166 Katoomba Street
Also in Canberra and Jindabyne Website: www.paddypailin.com.au
Mail order: 1800 805 398