Bushwalk Australia
Walking Wisely
Volume No 19, October 2016 2 | BWA October 2016
Bushwalk Australia Magazine An electronic magazine for http://bushwalk.com Videos Volume 19, October 2016 5 A fly over Urulu and “We acknowledge the a micro wind turbine Traditional Owners of this vast land which we explore. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and thank them for their stewardship of this great Six Foot Track south land.” 6 From Megalong Road to Cover picture Bowtells Swing Bridge Eva on Bowtells Swing Bridge by Matt McClelland
Editor Matt McClelland [email protected]
Design manager Eva Gomišček [email protected]
Sub-editor Stephen Lake [email protected]
Please send any articles, suggestions or advertising enquires to Eva.
BWA Advisory Panel North-north-west Mark Fowler Brian Eglinton
We would love you to be part of the magazine, here is how to The Six Foot Track Eco Lodge contribute - Writer's Guide. 10 New owners brought a fresh wind to The copy deadline for the lodge December 2016 edition is 31 October 2016.
Warning Like all outdoor pursuits, the Wondabyne Station activities described in this publication may be dangerous. Undertaking them may result in 12 to Somersby Store loss, serious injury or death. The information in this publication A two-day walk on Great North Walk is without any warranty on accuracy or completeness. There may be significant omissions and errors. People who are interested in walking in the areas concerned should make their own enquiries, and not rely fully on the Melaleuca Log Book information in this publication. 22 What can go wrong on a walk The publisher, editor, authors or any other entity or person will not be held responsible for any loss, injury, claim or liability of any kind resulting from people using information in this publication. Please consider joining a walking club or undertaking formal training Photo Gallery in other ways to ensure you are Stunning images well prepared for any activities you 28 are planning. Please report any from all over Australia errors or omissions to the editor or in the forum at BWA eMag.
Jamison Dawn Competition: Landscape October 2015 Tom Brennan BWA October 2016 | 3
Choosing a GPS 46 How to decide on a GPS?
Water Requirements 58 on a Bushwalk How much water do you need
Naturally Accessible 62 Give back a choice to the user to decide whether a track is suitable for them or not
A Walk in the Woods Helps Your Body 66 Why do you feel healthier and happier when bushwalking
Bring Back Mt Jack 72 Renew the Cope Hunt's previous name
Eating in Style for 74 Celebrations Flat Bread and Chocolate Cake 4 | BWA October 2016
From The Editor
Wow - Happy Birthday to us all. This edition marks three years of the Bushwalk Australia digital magazine as well as ten years of Bushwalk.com and Wildwalks. com - exciting times.
This magazine continues to grow and to be written by some amazing people in our community. The articles are wide-ranging from inspirational pieces about new ways to tackle bushwalking, political action to improve walking experiences, and practical how-to articles. I am excited that the magazine is read by new and experienced walkers, parks managers and politicians. It is great to see the voice of the bushwalking community continue to grow in so many ways.
Starting with this edition, we established an advisory panel, experienced bushwalkers from South Australia, Tasmania, and Canberra. This small but wonderful group provides us with greater insight into articles, explores ways we can improve them, and considers new article ideas. The results so far have been excellent, and I'm keen to see more.
There are too many people to thank and not enough room. Enjoy this edition, keep in touch and let me know if you want to get involved in any way.
Happy walking Matt :)
Matt McClelland (aka Wildwalks) [email protected]
Declaration The bushwalking community is a small world and paths often cross. To improve transparency I thought it would be helpful to list my associations within the outdoor community. In many cases I approached the authors of the articles included in this edition and suggested the topics. The opinions stated in articles are those of the authors and not of those involved in the production of this edition. The authors are mostly people I know through Bushwalk.com. I operate Bushwalk.com and Wildwalks.com and have written several walking guide books, published by Woodslane, I have also written for Great Walks. I contract part time to National Parks Association NSW on an ongoing basis to coordinate their activities program. I have had a partnership with NPWS NSW and have hosted advertising for Wild magazine. I have also partnered with a large number of other organisations in environmental campaigns and have a regular bushwalking segment on ABC regional radio. There is some commercial advertising through the magazine. I have probably forgotten something - if you are worried about transparency please either write to me or raise the issue on Bushwalk.com. BWA October 2016 | 5
Videos
Never before seen bird's-eye view of Uluru These spectacular birds-eye views of Uluru, offering a never before seen perspective of the 600 million-year-old monolith, were captured by the first drone to legally fly in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Micro wind turbine in the making This is a compact, lightweight, portable charging device, designed by a student Nils Ferber. It charges your portable devices in remote locations. 6 | BWA October 2016
Six Foot Track
From Megalong Road to Bowtells Swing Bridge Matt McClelland
Hard (Very steep 12.6 kilometres 5 hours 772 metres hills, section return 30 minutes ascent/descent of faint track and no signage)
Starting from Megalong Road, this walk will take you GPS at the start and end past the historic Megalong Cemetery and then through -33.7356, 150.2346 some farmland as you wander along private dirt roads Getting there on part of the Six Foot Track. Just shy of 1 kilometre Car: From the Great Western into the walk, you will then follow a track as it crosses Highway turn on Bundarra Street. the Guyvey Bridge and meanders through the pleasant After about 70m turn left on Kubya open farmland with views of the distant escarpment. Street. After 350m turn right onto In time, the walk leaves the farms and explores the Shipley Road and then after 750m more dense forest and granite boulders before coming turn left onto Megalong Road. to the granite-carved Coxs River. There is a chance Follow the sealed road for about to explore the river up close or take a bird's-eye view 14.1km. There's a car park on from the swing bridge. The track notes also describe a your right at the intersection with side trip to the Six Foot Track Eco Lodge, great if you Aspinall Road. Park and start want to stay and explore the area for longer. walking on Aspinall Road.
Bowtells Swing Bridge BWA October 2016 | 7
Intersection of Six Foot Track and grate. Here head uphill along the dirt road Megalong Road for just over 200 metres (with views of the (0 km) From the car park on Megalong Road escarpment behind) to cross another grate (about 400 metres south of Megalong Creek), and come to an intersection marked with follow the Six Foot Track sign over the cattle a Six Foot Track sign pointing right into the grate or stile and walk beside the large valley. sheltered Six Foot Track information sign. Here head gently downhill along the dirt road Intersection near Guyver Bridge for about 80 metres to come beside a stone (0.9 km) Turn right and follow the Six Foot memorial, marking Megalong Cemetery (on Track sign downhill along the narrow track your left). into the valley. Now cross a small creek on the timber Guyver Bridge, named in Megalong Cemetery (historical) honour of Jon Guyver who worked hard to (0.1 km) The Megalong Cemetery became redevelop the 6FT as the track coordinator/ the final resting place for at least 14 people administrator until 2010. Here head up the who died between 1894 and 1931. Many of timber steps and over a rise. Follow a wire the grave sites are in poor repair or can no fence down through the farmland and across longer be easily found - please take care a valley (above a dam) for almost 100 metres in the area to avoid any further damage. to a metal stile just before a dirt trail. Here A tall stone monument marks the edge of turn right and cross the fence using the stile, the cemetery on the Six Foot Track, about then follow a Six Foot Track sign along the 100 metres west of Megalong Road. This track as it undulates over a series of hills for cemetery is currently under the management about 300 metres before crossing another of the Blue Mountains City Council, and is fence using another metal stile beside a large recognised by the National Trust. tree. Follow the track that now leads uphill for 200 metres to pass a Private Land - No Megalong Cemetery Camping before Coxs River Reserve sign, (0.1 km) Continue straight beside Megalong then winds along the side of the hill for a Cemetery, walk gently downhill along the dirt further 150 metres before heading into a road for about 80 metres to pass through wooded forest and down some timber steps. gate with a No Through Road sign. Just shy Then cross a steep gully and walk along the of 300 metres later, pass a few driveways side of the hill for just over 100 metres to beside the farmland to cross another cattle pass a 35 kilometres 6FT arrow post, then grate. Then about 150 metres later, the road 150 metres later, cross another fence using leads close to Megalong Creek, where a sign a metal stile. Here continue for another 600 reminds visitors this is private land. About 30 metres through a mix of farmland and open metres further on, the main dirt road veers forest, crossing a few more steep gullies with right at a Y-intersection then cross a cattle timber steps to head through a closed gate, marked with a few Private Property signs.
Megalong Cemetery Guyver Bridge on the Six Foot Track 8 |BWA October2016
N 0 0.5 1km BWA October 2016 | 9
Private gate with a large group; the bridge swings a fair (2.7 km) Continue straight downhill along the bit and people concerned by heights may narrowing track, keeping the valley to your find this challenging. The bridge spans 100 right. After about 120 metres, cross a timber metres, giving great views of the river below. fence on a metal stile, then continue down On the far side there's a large rock platform. the track over a few large rocks for just over 200 metres, to an intersection with a wide Walk variation - Side trip to clearing east trail. Here turn right then immediately left, to of lodge (marked in green on the map) continue along the track as it narrows again. (6.3 km) From the north side of the bridge, Follow the track which then leads down walk up the timber steps through the dense along the side of the valley for about 600 forest to soon pass the Bowtells Bridge sign. metres and passes through another usually At the top of these steps, follow the track closed gate, then about 250 metres later, that bends left then leads along the side of the track passes a few granite boulders and the hill for 500 metres, crossing a few gullies head down a few timber steps. About 400 and undulating up and down a series of metres after this, walk down 100 metres timber steps to then pass between a couple of timber steps to cross a gully and find of fences posts. Here continue down a series a series of large granite boulders. One of of timber steps to a clearing and intersection the small overhangs is home to a wild bee marked with a Private Land - No Camping hive. Follow the track out of the valley and sign. gently down along the side of the hill for Turn sharp right at the intersection and about a kilometre, where the valley opens clearing, following the Camping Ground-500 up with wider views down to the Coxs River, metres sign north up the timber steps. Follow then head down some more timber steps. the track that soon bends left and follows the About 250 metres later, head down another side of the hill for about 130 metres to then set of timber steps to then walk through a head through a gate with a Welcome sign. pleasant lush gully with views close to the Continue along the clear track for another river. Then head along the hillside for another 70 metres to the intersection with the timber 150 metres to an intersection (just above the path just below the Six Foot Track Eco swing bridge, to your right), marked with a Lodge. At the end of this side trip, retrace Six Foot Track and Alternative Bridge signs. your steps back to the main walk then turn Bowtells Swing Bridge left. (6.1 km) This suspension footbridge spans Six Foot Track Eco Lodge the Coxs River and provides an alternate (6.3 km) The Six Foot Track Eco Lodge is on route for the Six Foot Track when the river the Six Foot Track Alternative Route, above is in flood. Regardless of weather, this route the Coxs River flats, just north of the Coxs is now becoming more popular with many River Campsite. Read more about the lodge walkers, wanting to avoid the river crossing. and its lovely owners on the following pages. The bridge was built and opened in 1992 by the Royal Australian Engineers. The bridge is Return the way you came. named after a fellow soldier of the builders, Corporal Bob Bowtell, who suffocated and died in foul air whilst attempting to clear a Viet Cong tunnel during the Vietnam war. Bowtell grew up in Katoomba and is buried in West Malaysia. Bowtells Swing Bridge (6.1 km) Turn right following the Alternative Bridge When River High sign down the timber steps to the southern end of the Bowtells Bridge. Here climb the ramp and cross the Coxs River on the suspension bridge, observing the Only one Person at a time sign. This crossing can take some time Matt with the new owner of the Six Foot Track Eco Lodge - Lucie Novak 10 | BWA October 2016
The Six Foot Track Eco Lodge Lucie Novak
Right between the Bowtels Swing Bridge and Coxs River campground, perched on a hillside only metres away from the Six Foot Track is the Six Foot Track Eco Lodge.
Six Foot Track Eco Lodge Lucie Novakova BWA October 2016 | 11
It’s one of the few support accommodation spotted from the lodge deck on a given facilities in Australia available to walkers. The day including the vulnerable gang-gang lodge is conveniently located on a crossroad cockatoo. of many short and long walks, such as the Six Foot Track and the Coxs River return Lucie and Pavel Novak took over the lodge via Dunphys campsite. The lodge enables in December 2015 from Willi-Joy Sirks, walkers to complete multiday tracks with who did an amazing job re-establishing just a day pack, not having to carry a full and running the business. Both Lucie and camping gear. Pavel have environmental and conservation management backgrounds, and are eager to share their place with other nature lovers. They strive to operate the business in the most environmentally friendly way possible. The lodge is off-grid, running on solar power, collecting rain water for drinking and using a worm composting toilet. The lodge is a great alternative to camping, from $35 to $40 per person per night, it provides an inexpensive and comfortable accommodation for up to 28 guests. It has two cabins and a semi-outdoor galley Campfire area Eva Gomiscek kitchen, joined by a large timber deck. The large outdoor campfire is a social place for The Lodge was built in 1998 on a 40 acres guests to gather around in the evenings. You of bushland including riverfront, which can also book catering to complete your was originally owned by David Lynch, a experience with authentic meals, such as a famous Aboriginal community elder. The big pot of goulash, a continental European- Coxs River is based on granite geology. style stew cooked for about six hours over Larges pink granite boulders scattered in the campfire in a large cast iron pot, which is and around river have created many water typically served for dinner. holes with clear water, providing habitat The lodge is now open seven days per week, to numerous species of native fish, frogs, offering not only accommodation for the lizards, snakes, water rats, platypus and walkers, but also a peaceful place to stop by other. The river is also a great place for for a coffee break or a light snack on your trout fishing and swimming. The tall open walk. You will love the views and sounds of forest and woodland surrounding the lodge the river and wildlife from the deck, tucked in provides habitat and refuge for a variety of the midst of old and tall native trees. native species such as kangaroos, wallabies, wallaroos, echidnas, wombats, sugar gliders, For bookings and general enquiries, check large monitors and more than 50 different out their website on 6fttracklodge.com or call species of birds. Most of the birds can be 0431 072 862.
The large timber deck At the back they have a loo with a view Eva Gomiscek Eva Gomiscek 12 | BWA October 2016
Wondabyne Station to Somersby Store Matt McClelland
26.2 kilometres Hard 2 days 1160 metres climb (Very steep one way sections)
This walk follows a GPS at the start -33.492083, 151.25696 section of the Great GPS at the end -33.358081, 151.29029 North Walk (GNW), starting from the Getting there Wondabyne train station Train: When you catch the train to Wondabyne, let the guard and winding north, into know you want to get off at Wondabyne Station, otherwise the Brisbane Waters the train will not stop. Travel in the last carriage and exit at the National Park. The walk last door as the platform is very short. To catch the train from climbs to the top of Wondabyne, wave to the driver. Scopas Peak, and down to the Phill Haughton Getting home bridge. The campsite Bus: A bus service runs along Wisemans Ferry Road passing for the night is beside Somersby store. The service runs between Gosford and Mooney Mooney Creek. Spencer only a few times a day. Please check timetable for On day two, the walk more info or Phone Busway on (02) 4368 2277. The bus only heads through the bush picks passengers up to head to Somersby on the afternoon to the Somersby general runs (get details). store, where you can find Car: There is free parking available (get details) at the end of the a hot meal and wait for walk. Note there is no car access at the start, train only. your lift home.
View of Mooney Mooney Creek BWA October 2016 | 13
Wondabyne management trail uphill past the Brisbane (0 km) Wondabyne is situated in Brisbane Water National Park sign. Head up quite Waters National Park on the banks of Mullet steeply for about 250 metres, and follow the River, which feeds into the Hawkesbury trail as it bends right then leads gently uphill River north of Brooklyn. The area is defined for about 600 metres. Head up a short but by the national park's flora and fauna, the quite steep hill, then veer left and, about 150 quarry, railway station and a few houses metres later, come to an intersection with sitting above the water around the river. the Pindar Cave track (that leads over a rock The quarry produced sandstone building platform, on your left), marked with a GNW materials, used in the construction of the arrow post (on your right). National War Memorial in Canberra. More recently, in 2000, the quarry was re-opened Eastern end of the Pindar Cave Track for restoration of St Marys Cathedral spire in (1.5 km) Continue straight following the Sydney. Wondabyne Station, named after the GNW arrow post north, gently uphill along nearby Mt Wondabyne, was built in 1889 and the wide trail. Follow the trail as it gently exclusively used for the quarry - it was then undulates along the top of the ridge for about known as Mullet Creek Station. The station 600 metres to an intersection with the Great is one of the smallest on the line and one of North Walk track (on your right), marked with very few railway stations in a NSW national a Wondabyne Station sign pointing back park. down the hill. Intersection of GNW and Wondabyne Trail (2.1 km) Continue straight following the Girrakool sign uphill along the wide trail. After about 50 metres, head up onto a large rock platform. From the top of this platform, there are some distant views over Mooney Mooney Creek. Continue on the platform, following the scrape marks on the rock, tending right, to soon find the wide trail again. Follow the trail as it undulates (moderately steeply in a few places) along the ridge line for about 900 metres to an intersection marked with a Wondabyne Station Girrakool sign (pointing left), just before a No Entry Past This Point sign. Wondabyne Station South end of Scopas Peak Track (0 km) From the north-bound platform of (3.2 km) Turn left to follow the Girrakool sign Wondabyne Station, follow the The Great and GNW arrow post north along the clear North Walk sign off the southern the end track. After about 150 metres, you come of the platform, keeping the train lines and to a green painted metal box on a post (on water to your left. Go past a strangler fig your right), containing a Great North Walk and a large boulder then veer right and head intentions book. Leave your comments, up a timber staircase with a metal landing then continue straight from the Great North at the top. Walk steeply uphill, up a series Walk intentions book, walk north, gently up of timber and rock steps for just over 200 along the clear track. Follow the track as it metres to pass a filtered view of the cranes gently undulates along this ridge for about (right), down at the old Gosford Quarry. Here 750 metres, leading across a long sandy continue a bit more steeply uphill for another saddle to the base of Scopas Peak. Here 150 metres, up a series of rock steps, and climb steeply for about 230 metres, stopping then, soon after walking up the carved occasionally to enjoy the view, up the series steps in a cleft in a rock, the track flattens of rocks with cut steps and past a few rock out and you will come to a clearing at the walls. Near the top of this climb, the track end of a management trail, marked with a bends left to head up to a view point just to Brisbane Water National Park sign. Continue the west of Scopas Peak. straight from the clearing, following the wide 14 | BWA October 2016
N 0 0.5 1km BWA October 2016 | 15
Scopas Peak after this overhang, walk over a small gully (4.4 km) Veer right from the view point just then along the side of a longer rock wall with west of Scopas Peak, walk north-east and another tall sandstone overhang. Continue gently downhill, initially keeping the distant gently downhill for another 300 metres, as views to your left. Head down the notably the track becomes a little steeper along the steeper track for about 300 metres to then way, until just past a set of rock steps. Here cross over a long rock platform, with a head steeply down the side of the hill for series of GNW arrow posts guiding the way. about 130 metres, first passing through a After this rock platform, walk for another cleft in the rock then past a few rock walls. 250 metres, crossing a couple of small rock Just after a few switchbacks, walk into a narrow gully, past a small Patonga sign, then come to a three-way intersection beside an intermittent creek, marked with a large The Great North Walk sign with a Patonga Ferry arrow pointing back up the hill. Continue straight following the Piles Creek sign down the track (keeping the valley to the right). Follow the rocky track steeply downhill for about 170 metres to Piles Creek. Just past the old bridge, climb up the stairs to cross the Phil Houghton suspension footbridge, enjoying the views of the tidal Piles Creek. On the other side, climb down the stairs to an intersection beside a large clearing (and Rock flats campsite, on your left). platforms before leading along a heathy Phil Houghton Bridge track. About 400 metres along, pass another The Phil Houghton Bridge is a metal view to Mooney Mooney Bridge, then come suspension bridge that crosses Piles Creek. to the edge of another large rock platform. It is part of the Great North Walk and A series of GNW arrow posts lead across replaces an older bridge, with part still visible this rock platform, generally heading away upstream. The bridge can hold up to eight from Scopas Peak for about 400 metres, people and feels very stable. There are great where the arrows lead off the rock platform views both up and downstream half way and back onto a heathy track. Follow the across this bridge. There is a clearing on rocky track as it continues down along the the northern side that people have used for ridge for just shy of 300 metres to the edge camping. of another smaller rock platform with more with distant views. From here, head downhill for about 600 metres, passing a couple of rocky outcrops and becoming progressively steeper until coming to the edge of an intermittent creek, which flows over the solid sandstone platform, at the bottom of the valley. Tributary crossing (6.8 km) Continue straight from the western bank, cross the intermittent creek which flows over the solid sandstone platform, to follow the track uphill. Walk gently uphill but soon head steeply up for about 130 metres, where the track mostly flattens out to pass a sandstone overhang (on your right). Soon Phil Houghton Bridge 16 | BWA October 2016
N 0 0.5 1km BWA October 2016 | 17
Phil Houghton Bridge Mooney Mooney Creek Trackhead (7.8 km) Turn left from the intersection (10.1 km) Turn left following the Newcastle on the northern end of the Phil Houghton sign along the narrowing gravel verge, Bridge, following the Mooney Creek arrow keeping the Old Pacific Highway just to through the large clearing and campsite, your right. After about 200 metres cross the keeping Piles Creek to your left. Head under concrete road bridge over Mooney Mooney a large dead tree then wind past some Creek, enjoying the view of the wide creek cliffs and among large boulders for about below. Once on the other side, walk past one kilometre then cross a short timber a detailed Risk Warning sign suggesting bridge with handrails. Just past this bridge, you be sensible as you cross the bridge walk over a short flat timber bridge, then (hope it is not too late) to then come to an about just shy of 150 metres later, head intersection with Karool Road, just on the along a section of timber boardwalk. From other side of the highway (on your right). Turn this tall eucalypt forest, follow the track as right following the gravel Karool Road gently it contours around the side of the hill for downhill, keeping Mooney Mooney Creek to about 500 metres, alongside Piles Creek, your right. This road leads past a few homes then starts to climb passing among the for about 600 metres to then pass a notable grass trees before heading down a handful houseboat house. About 250 metres past of timber steps and coming to a three-way this house, come to a Y intersection, marked intersection marked with a Brisbane Waters with a The Great North Walk sign, just before National Park sign, just before Mooney the tall concrete Mooney Mooney Bridge. Mooney Creek. Veer left from the Y intersection, following the The Great North Walk sign along the upper Brisbane Water NP sign dirt road to pass under the Mooney Mooney (9.5 km) Turn right following the GNW arrow (F3 freeway) Bridge. Just over 250 metres post directly away from the face of the after passing under the tall bridge, head up Brisbane Waters National Park sign along the to a large turning area just before the locked clear track, keeping Mooney Mooney Creek gate, marked with a Brisbane Water National to your left. After about 100 metres, cross Park sign. a green timber footbridge, then about 200 metres later come to a small clearing and National Park Gate intersection just before the road bridge. Here (11.6 km) Continue straight from the end off turn right, following the old management trail the dirt road (that branches off Karool Road, uphill through the tall forest for about 200 just north of the Mooney Mooney Bridge), metres then heading around a locked gate. walk uphill along the trail and around the Just past the gate, turn left and head up the locked gate next to the timber Brisbane short steep bank to a T intersection with the Water National Park sign. Follow the trail as old Pacific Highway, at a large gravel car it leads uphill for about 200 metres to where park marked with Mooney Mooney Creek the trail bends left to pass over the crest of Trackhead (just east of the Mooney Mooney the hill (passing a faint track on your left). Creek bridge). Here the trail leads down the other side, still keeping Mooney Mooney Creek to your right for another 400 metres to an intersection marked with a GNW arrow post, beside a large grassy clearing and campsite (on your right). Mooney Mooney Creek Campsite (south) This clearing is beside the wide Mooney Mooney Creek and provides a large flat area to pitch a few tents. There are some high- tension power lines nearby and you can hear the hum of the F3 from here, so it is not the Old Pacific Highway - Mooney Mooney Bridge most remote campsite. There are no facilities 18 | BWA October 2016 or water (the creek is salty). All that said it is the timber and metal footbridge over a tidal, still a pleasant spot beside the wide creek to unnamed creek to then turn right and follow rest for a while or for the night. the track which soon bends left. Keeping Mooney Mooney Creek to the right, pass a Mooney Mooney Creek Campsite (south) small cliff then follow the mostly flat track (12.2 km) Veer right from the intersection through the tall forest for about 170 metres just above the campsite, following the GNW to a large clearing with tall blue gums and a arrow post down along the track, keeping metal fireplace (on your left), signposted as a the clearing and campsite to the right. Soon Camping area. you walk over a small flat timber bridge then over the next 60 metres, head under the Mooney Mooney Creek Campsite (north) high-tension power lines (past the caution (13.5 km) This signposted campsite sits sign) and then along a short section of among the tall eucalypt and bracken fern timber boardwalk. About 20 metres later, forest beside the Mooney Mooney Creek. veer right at a Y intersection, then continue This is a very pleasant flat clearing to spend along the mostly flat track beside Mooney a night, there is a small metal fireplace Mooney Creek for about 300 metres, to hotplate and room for a small number of cross a small rocky tidal creek. Continue tents. There is no drinking water or other through the tall forest beside Mooney facilities at this campsite (Mooney Mooney Mooney Creek for about 600 metres, Creek is salty at this point, treatable water passing a couple of she-oak stands before may be found about two kilometres north). the track then bends left and comes to an indistinct intersection beside a timber and End of day 1 metal footbridge. Continue straight cross This is the planned overnight stay for the end of day 1, happy camping.
Mooney Mooney Dam BWA October 2016 | 19
Mooney Mooney Creek Campsite (north) waters edge on the uphill side of the dam (13.5 km) Continue straight ahead from the wall, the dam wall is fenced and is clearly campsite, following the clear track north, out of bounds. A sign reminds visitors that keeping the wide Mooney Mooney Creek to swimming is not allowed. your right. The clear, wide and mostly flat track leads alongside the creek for about Lower Mooney Mooney Dam 1.2 kilometres to the south bank of Ausburn (16.8 km) Continue straight from the lower Creek (about 130 metres past a rock wall, on Mooney Mooney Dam, walk uphill along your left), a few metres above its confluence the old trail, initially keeping the water on with Mooney Mooney Creek. your left. Head up, enjoying the occasional glimpse of water (on your left) for about 400 Ausburn Creek crossing metres to pass a washed-out section of (14.7 km) Continue along the south bank of the old trail. From here, continue up along Ausburn Creek, crossing the narrow rock the trail for about 1.3 kilometres, getting platform and creek, then following the track steeper as it climbs, and come to a three- fairly steeply uphill for about 200 metres. way intersection marked with a Mooney At the top of this climb, gently undulate Creek sign pointing back downhill. Turn left alongside Mooney Mooney Creek for about following the Reserve Road sign uphill along 700 metres before heading down to find the old trail, initially keeping the valley to a large rock platform on the western bank your left. After about 180 metres, come to a of Mooney Mooney Creek. This large rock faint intersection marked with a The Great platform is a natural ford of the perennial North Walk sign. Turn left following the The Mooney Mooney Creek and is home to a Great North Walk sign downhill along the scattering of small and large waterholes. track for about 50 metres, to cross a small pleasant gully with an ephemeral creek. The Mooney Mooney Creek crossing track starts to wind moderately steeply uphill (15.6 km) From the bank of Mooney Mooney then, soon after flattening out it comes to Creek, cross the wide rock platform and a signposted Camping Area with a metal creek to find the track on the other side. This fireplace. creek may become impassable after heavy or prolonged rain. Here turn left and follow the Quarry Camping Area rocky track that leads gently up alongside This is a small signposted campsite set the creek through the pleasant forest. After among heath, grass tress, scribbly gums a little over a kilometre, you come into view and aother eucalpyts. The clearing is flat and of the tailwater of the dam and then past sandy and provides room to set up a few a fenced cutting (on your right), the site of tents with and a small metal fireplace with an old pump house. About 60 metres past hotplate. There is no water or other facilites this fenced area, head up along the now here. widening track to find the edge of the fenced lower Mooney Mooney Dam wall. Lower Mooney Dam Lower Mooney Dam is located on the Mooney Mooney Creek, about 21 kilometres upstream from the Hawkesbury River. In March 1938 the Gosford Mayor turned the tap to add the water from this dam into the small town water supply of the time. It is a concrete arch dam, with a capacity of 1000 megalitres, and was superseded by the more than 4 times larger Upper Mooney Dam in 1982. There is a set of timber steps and a faint track that leads down to the Duckboard near Quarry 20 | BWA October 2016
Quarry Camping Area before turning right onto a track, following a (19 km) Continue straight from in front of the GNW arrow post. Walk through the banksia camping area, walk gently uphill along the and she-oak forest for just over 100 metres sandy track, initially keeping the camping to pass a The Great North Walk sign and area to your right. After about 220 metres of then cross Reservoir Road. On the other side walking through this scribbly gum forest and of the road, continue gently down through passing a small informal campsite on the the she-oak (Casuarina glauca) forest for way, you come to the quarry boundary fence about 150 metres before crossing a metal and turn left. Follow the fence for about 70 footbridge. On the other side of the bridge, metres, then head to a section of timber turn left and follow the track as it winds boardwalk with a view (on the right) over down through the heathy bushland, alive with parts of the quarry. Continue along the fence wildflowers in spring, for about 400 metres for about 250 metres, crossing a small flat and cross a small ephemeral creek. The track timber bridge to come an intersection with a then leads under high-tension power lines dirt road (just past the locked gate). and then bends right and leads gently up for another 20 metres, coming to an intersection Quarry gate with a power line management trail. Veer (19.6 km) Veer left following the GNW arrow right following the management trail uphill, marker gently downhill along the dirt road. keeping the power lines just to your right. Follow the road for about 400 metres to a After about 40 metres, follow the GNW large clearing with two large water reservoirs arrow post left (ignoring the Private Property tanks. Continue past the two reservoirs (and trail ahead) as the track winds gently uphill past the treatment plant building, on your for about 250 metres before veering left, left) to a The Great North Walk sign just in ignoring another Private Property track (on front of a small brick building. Continue your right). Walk along the mostly flat track straight following the The Great North Walk that leads along the side of the hill for about sign gently downhill along the gravel trail 100 metres before passing under another set (away from the water tanks) for a few metres of power lines and leading right, steeply up
Robinson Road BWA October 2016 | 21 the short rocky hill. At the top of this hill, walk a large grassy clearing (on your right) with to the end of a trail, but immediately veer some tall pine trees. Countinue along the right to follow a track along a fence for about sandy trail for another 150 metres, past a few 60 metres before rejoining the same power scribbly gums, and come to a Y intersection line management trail. marked with a The Great North Walk sign (pointing left). South end of Robinson Creek Track (21.3 km) Veer right following the GNW arrow Intersection of Great North Walk and post uphill along the wide management Private Property trail, following the power lines for about 100 (23.1 km) Veer left following the The Great metres before veering left to follow another North Walk sign along the track, initially GNW arrow post along a narrow track. keeping the sandy trail to the right for a short distance. Soon bend left, then wind Follow the track as it leads into the bush over a small rise through the scribbly gum among gymea lilies (Doryanthes excelsa) and forest for about 400 metres before heading eucalypts for almost 300 metres, crossing over a short section of green boardwalk. A a couple of short flat timber bridges to then short distance later, cross a green timber head along a few sections of timber board footbridge and comes to an intersection at walk through a weedy section of bush. the end of the dirt Robinson Road. Continue gently downhill for another 150 metres to cross over a trail. Follow the GNW End of Robinson Road arrow post more steeply down for about (23.5 km) Turn right following the GNW 250 metres, passing through another large arrow post uphill along the gravel Robinson grove of gymea lilies, a small cave (on your Road for about 300 metres to then continue left). Continue down the timber then stone straight ahead along the sealed Silvester steps to head into the dense moist forest and Road. Head along the sealed road for across a flat timber bridge, coming into view another 500 metres to pass an intersection of the creek. Here veer right and head beside with Anembo Road, then continue along the creek for a short time before bending left, Silvester Road. Over the next kilometre or following the GNW arrow post across the so, travel among the rural properties, with creek flowing over the mossy rock bed. Just distant views of the peaks in Brisbane Water downstream is a small pool and cascade. NP (to your right), before turning left onto The track starts to climb up the other side of Wisemans Ferry Road at the T intersection. the valley, soon crossing a small flat timber From here, head up along the narrow grassy bridge. Wind steeply out of the ferns and verge beside the road for about 500 metres densely forested valley, up timber and stone to pass the large communications tower (on steps for about 130 metres where another your right), head over the crest of the hill then GNW arrow post marks the end of this down for about 250 metres to Somersby section of steep climbing. Head gently up Store (on your left). among some tall eucalypts and past a large grove of gymea lily for about 230 metres to a T intersection with a wide management trail. North end of Robinson Creek Track (22.5 km) Veer right following the GNW arrow post uphill along the wide sandy trail for about 40 metres to pass a faint trail (on your right). Then about 120 metres further up the main trail, comes a T intersection marked with a couple more GNW arrow posts. Turn right following the GNW arrow post gently uphill along the sandy trail. The trail soon leaves the wooded forest and after about 120 metres, veers left at an intersection in a clearing. After another 120 metres, head past Somersby Store 22 | BWA October 2016
Melaleuca Log Book
A few years ago two walkers nearly came to grief on Tasmania's South Coast Track. The first part is a transcript of a portion of the Melaleuca Inlet log book. The names and dates have been changed. The second part is an analysis of the events through the eyes of Stephen Lake, with significant additions by North-north-west and Mark Fowler in the body of the article.
Pages from the Melaleuca log book BWA October 2016 | 23
Day one, summer we agreed Sandra would wait … she wasn't Tim and I made it here from Cockle Creek there!! yesterday after enduring eight fantastic yet challenging days on the South Coast Track, I was completely freaked. I started thinking which included one rest day at Granite maybe Sandra started to get About a kilometre Beach. Will be checking the food situation from camp Sandra's this morning to decide if we can afford to hypothermic, maybe she was freezing and felt like jelly all spend another day here before continuing on “over ... to Scotts Peak on the Port Davey Track. delusional, she didn't seem to Have heard the weather will be clearing up in be making much sense when I left her. I another two days or so, so hopefully we will started to bush bash thinking she might have get some nice weather towards the end. crawled to the scrub to get warm. I couldn't stop yelling, SANDRA!!! SANDRA!!! I ran Will be feasting on chocolate and biscuits back up to the top of the hill thinking she today to keep up our strength. ☺ had been confused, continued on but gone in the wrong direction. After two kilometres Enjoy the track everyone – don't let the of running and sprinting it's about 8.00 pm, I mud get to you! You will laugh when you get feel I had looked everywhere and need to set home. up the tent then continue the search in the Sandra and Tim dark with a headlight. Entry on the same day I reached into my pack … what's this!!! Sandra and I had a horror day and half. It all Sandra's there!!! She had grabbed the tent started at South Cape Bay. We left at about and set it up on the hill among the sword 10.30 am, we knew we should have left grass. We must have missed each other earlier but took for granted our easy walk the when I ran back to find her. Sandra said, day before from Cockle Creek. We arrived “I had to keep moving to warm myself at South Cape Rivulet camp at noon after a otherwise I thought I would die there on that slow relaxed walk then mucked around trying log.” to cross in our underwear. All was good, had lunch, set off again at 1.00 pm. The walk was We crawled into the originally supposed to start from South Cape I was completely tent after getting out freaked. Rivulet to Granite Beach and was a hard- all our sleeping gear medium day … Anyway, the day moved on, with our numb dysfunctional“ hands and slept the walk got harder, the weather got wetter the wettest most unconformable night of our and colder, and we became very tired. Stress lives. I passed out with exhaustion, same as started to kick in when we thought we had Sandra. covered the hills, but more kept coming and the bigger they got. Now it got around the 6 The next morning we quickly shoved pm mark, it's really overcast and felt like it everything into a garbage bag, walked could get dark at any moment. We're finally the last kilometre to Granite Beach in our on top of the last hill only three kilometres to underwear, down the hill through the sword go but it was so exposed, blowing a gale and grass and spent the whole day sleeping. hailing. Sandra was buggered, had enough. I was okay, so I gave lots of encouragement Moral of the story: when the going gets and pressed on. About a kilometre from tough never leave one another's sight, work camp Sandra's freezing and felt like jelly together. all over, so we made the rash decision for I look back now and think I should have myself to run to camp, set up, run back, thought rationally and I recall a few concerns get Sandra's pack, and help her to safety. I before coming back to help Sandra – I heard started running to camp as fast as I can with a scream … must have been a bird. my heavy pack. I don't remember how fast Tim and Sandra I was running for but something didn't feel right. So I dropped my pack and ran back PS. Second day from Cockle Creek is harder for Sandra. When I arrived at the log where than The Ironbounds, others have agreed. 24 | BWA October 2016
What went wrong? about the walk? Did they underestimate the walk or overestimate their capabilities? It Analysis appears so. It is a maxim of adverse incidents that it's usual for several things to go wrong prior to They may have been absorbed with and thus causing the incident, or for there photography. The mud starts here. Many to be a cascade, with each item causing people really don't understand how draining another until the incident. The above fits this it can be trying to climb in deep mud, and maxim. many tend to waste time trying to bypass it. The wet conditions would also have been Departure time making things worse. But it's likely the The first point is the departure time – 10.30 biggest contributor was lack of appropriate am is far too late. On summer trips I'm walk fitness. walking by 6.30-7 am at the latest, giving a lot of time to reach the next camp, which is The South Coast Walks map from Tasmap usually about noon-2 pm, ready for a bludge, (Ed 2 1997) which they were likely to be missing the heat. Had Tim and Sandra left using does not show Trackcutters camp at 8 am then they would have had more and states “No campsites are found on the daylight. Tim said “around the 6 pm mark, range.” The map also gives the time for it's really overcast and felt like it could get Granite Beach to South Cape Rivulet as 6-8 dark at any moment.” Leaving at 8 am would hours medium/hard walking. have also beaten most of the bad weather. Camp seems to have been made near the At South Did Tim and Sandra east end of the SCT at South Cape Bay. They Cape Rivulet have unrealistic left here at 10.30 am and reached South they “mucked expectations about the walk? Cape Rivulet at noon, 90 minutes of flat around trying “ track to walk a bit over two kilometres. This to cross”. Oops. Just go! In fact arriving at is slow! After clearing South Cape Rivulet noon and clearing it by 1 pm after lunch is at 1 pm, in deteriorating conditions it then acceptable. However, delays add up. took about five hours to reach the top of the South Cape Range, after 6 pm. This is about Trip too hard seven kilometres, just over one kilometre/ Tim said that after South Cape Rivulet the hour. day got harder. Is the SCT that hard? The weather deteriorated – not much can be Leaving South Cape Rivulet at 1 pm was very done about that. Tim says “we became late, suggesting an arrival at Granite Beach very tired. Stress started to kick in”. To the at 6 to 8 pm by Chapman's times or 7 to 9 late start, long day and bad weather, most pm by the Walks map timing. This leaves probably another aspect that adversely absolutely no time for stops or any delays. affects matters can be added – lack of fitness The fact that they reached the top of the and stamina. I've been tired and dispirited on range after about five hours actually shows walks, but I've never been stressed. Did Tim they were walking at a fairly acceptable pace. and Sandra have unrealistic expectations The descent to Granite Beach is quite quick
South Cape Range Mark Fowler BWA October 2016 | 25 and relatively mud free once one gets to the Camping earlier end of Flat Rock Plain. If bad weather and tiredness are approaching, consider camping. I always The days were unbalanced. It seems that the have a number of options such as water days were: points, campsites and escape routes ready for instant use. Camp should have been 1. Cockle Creek to South Cape Bay 8 kilometres, flat considered mid-afternoon on the east side of the South Cape Range, the high point of 2. South Cape Bay to near Granite Beach 12 kilometres, up 700 metres which is the last hill three kilometres from Granite Beach. After all their struggles they If at all did not reach Granite Beach and camped on the west side of the South Cape Range. possible they After all their An east side campsite is more sheltered and should have struggles they did not allows camp to be set up while less tired, camped at reach Granite Beach ... South Cape “ at about 5 pm. While not ideal, Trackcutters Rivulet, making 10 kilometre for each day. Camp on the east side is indicated. This and an 8 am start would have seen It sounds like they were fixated on getting to them at Granite Beach by about 4 pm at Granite Beach and either didn't consider or the latest. As the second day is shorter it didn't know about Trackcutters, and by the would have been easier, they would have time they topped out the range it was too been fresher at the end, and, as mentioned late to go back. above, the weather would have been better. Also – importantly I think – there would not Keep together be a psychological cloud hanging over them Separating was ill-advised. I've seen people as matters deteriorated. Another point is lose obvious tracks. On another trip on the that the South Cape Rivulet crossing is tidal, SCT there was a tree over the track. The so crossing on the first day would avoid party was east-bound, strung out, should having to wait for the tide the next day. John not be any problems. Reach the tree, turn Chapman says 5-7 hours Granite Beach to right to get around it, reach the end, a U-turn South Cape Rivulet, so it would be about the to the left, back to the track, turn right, same going the other way. Did they read the continue. One person missed the U-turn book? This is just a guess but I suspect they and walked several kilometres across open had no idea trackless terrain until he hit the beach. He what SW mud It's always advisable was not missed for a while. Oops. This is can be like. to keep together if a another common mistake for newbies and person“ is injured. the over-confident.
South Cape Rivulet Mark Fowler 26 | BWA October 2016
It's always advisable to keep together and moisture. It's not exactly alpine, after if a person is injured. It seems that Tim all. Did they have decent waterproofs? What and especially Sandra had hypothermia- sort of base layers were they wearing? How exhaustion, with the long day, terrain, much layering? This goes to preparation temperature and precipitation taking their again: how much did they find out about toll on what very much seems to be unfit Tassie, about the South West and about the people. If Sandra was struggling with her track before heading off? There are a lot of pack I'd do 100 metre shuttles, carrying one questions I'd like to be able to ask them. pack, then going back for Sandra's pack. Going a kilometre is too far. Tim says “maybe Summary Sandra started to get hypothermic, maybe A number of poor decisions were made, she was delusional, she didn't seem to be cascading towards the end. I consider them making much sense”. Not making sense is a both to be very lucky not to be dots on a clear indication of hypothermia-exhaustion. graph. I hope they learned. Nature can be Had Tim so assessed Sandra before he left very unforgiving. then he may have stayed close by, but his To read more on the topic here's a good judgement was most probably clouded as news story about sticking together. And this well. All that running would have drained him is an example of what can go wrong by not of energy, made him more likely to succumb. sticking together and poor communication. This is a classic escalation. One of the major problems with hypothermia and fatigue is the way they affect your capacity to think and make rational decisions. This helps explain C'est la vie. Fortunately it didn't end in la the tunnel vision “must reach Granite Beach” mort. (Funny that both life and death are attitude. female. We women usually get the rough Clothing end of the pineapple in these things.) Tim refers to “our numb dysfunctional I suspect this happens far more hands”. It seems that they did not have frequently than we realise. We usually gloves, or if they did, they were inadequate. only hear about the cases when it gets I've walked in summer with light gardening to the SAR stage (except when you gloves to keep off flies, and these gloves get incidents like Edith). I've been in were adequate for a day when the situations not too dissimilar, both diving temperature dropped to just above zero. I and walking, and owe my survival in had four layers on top, thermal hat, worked part to simply not having been unlucky fine. I wonder if they had enough clothing. enough for it to go sufficiently pear- Other issues shaped to kill me. There is nothing mentioned about stopping North-north-west for a snack or drink. Were they well hydrated and eating during the afternoon? A snack and hot drink may have helped them keep going. I agree totally with NNW's comments. To me the major issue was separating, Were they used to carrying the weight of particularly given Sandra's potential their packs? People often carry too much on hypothermia. Many mainland walkers longer trips, especially clothes and “just in have never encountered anything like case” items. Extra, unfamiliar pack weight Tassie mud and the South Cape Range really slows you down in mud. is a particularly good mud example. I suspect that many walkers do not buy Lack of experience Chapman’s book but rely on websites Due to all the above, it very much seems that and the Tasmap for the walk which has they lacked experience. I also wonder about basic information and minimal track equipment, especially clothing. It's not just notes. about the gloves - while it can get cold on Mark Fowler the SCT the main issue is usually wind-chill BWA October 2016 | 27
Precipitous Bluff from New River Lagoon outlet Mark Fowler 28 | BWA October 2016
Photo Gallery
Valley of the Waters Competition: Other states November 2012 Vern BWA October 2016 | 29
BWA Photo Competition 30 | BWA October 2016
Other States October 2015
WINNER Light and shadow from the summit of Mt Bogong. The ascent of the Staircase was with fervent hopes that the gale force winds would calm down enough to allow me to camp on top of Mt Bogong. That was the forecast, and the BOM got it right, for which I was thankful. The breeze was still enough to seek some shelter - but the only thing standing on top is the large summit cairn. So I put up the tent in its lee and enjoyed a perfect freezing night with a full moon. Morning had me crunching the icy ground early - in time to see the sun forming a very distinctive earth shadow to the west. The full moon was still suspended near the horizon just above the shadow in that part of the atmosphere, Light and shadow glowing red with the first light of the dawn. Brian Eglinton I was on top of the world peacefully watching it waken.
Nature's spotlight Fairy Bower Falls, Feathered ocean on the Apostles Morton National Park Louise Fairfax Cajun Mandy Creighton
Almost a mini canyon Stonehenge Constriction at John Walker Trickos Telowie Gorge Beardless
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=21867 BWA October 2016 | 31 32 | BWA October 2016
Tasmania October 2015
WINNER A beautiful dawn camping by the Narcissus River, Lake St Clair after a three day off track trip to Byron, Cuvier and Manfred in unusually good weather for October. This is the finish point for many Overland Track walkers. I took the shot from the jetty where you catch the ferry.
Narcissus camp Tigercat
The Amphitheatre A morning view Pelion plains North-north-west south west Jeremy Willson Osik
The Cap under cloud - Rugged grandeur Looking up! Quaile Falls Nick Morgan Louise Fairfax Caedencekuepper
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=21868 BWA October 2016 | 33 34 | BWA October 2016
Landscapes October 2015
WINNER The vowed return to complete the Eldon Abels was a trip that had everything - including moments of such sublime beauty as captured in this image. Getting this far had been hard work, but watching the shifting light on Eldon Bluff from the campsite - both the evening before and this glorious morning - made all hard work forgettable. Any wonder I still want to go back, again ...
Morning light on Eldon Bluff North-north-west
Jamison Dawn Budawangs from Close of day Tom Brennan Pigeon House Mountain in the tropics Mandy Creighton Louise Fairfax
First light Mt Byron Pelion perfection Top of Victoria Tigercat in reflection Brian Eglinton Nick Morgan
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=21870 BWA October 2016 | 35 36 | BWA October 2016
Non-landscapes October 2015
WINNER It's fairly common to see Mountain Dragons (Rankinia diemensis) skittering across tracks and fire trails in the Blue Mountains, though it's a lot harder to spot them when they aren't moving. I spotted this little fella perched on a rock along a fire trail on one of the tracks around Woodford in the Blue Mountains. I carefully backtracked, put the longest lens on my camera, and lay down on the ground to get an eye to eye angle on him. He stayed still, regarding me suspiciously, as I slowly crawled forward firing off shots.
King of the castle Tom Brennan
Liffey Falls Cheeky bugger Moonrise Tigercat Cajun Brian Eglinton
Telopea Speciosissima Alpine garden detail Lizard paradise John Walker North-north-west Doric Swain
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=21869 BWA October 2016 | 37 38 | BWA October 2016
Other States November 2015
WINNER Can't really remember when I got really interested in bird photography, but Ash Island in Newcastle certainly had some influence and, when the local birding community got me onto a man named Alwyn Simple, I was hooked. I met Alwyn at the Port Augusta Arid Lands Centre (highly recommended if you're ever over that way) and he showed me more in 20 minutes than I would have otherwise learned in the next three months and, he convinced me to get a decent lens, which I did, picking it up at Alice Springs. For the record, it's a 50-500 Sigma and I use it with Nikon SLRs.
Then I quickly realized that some birds are harder to shoot than others and this is one, the reason is not because you can't get near them, but because most small birds are very Yellow rumped thornbill mobile, it's hard to get a shot of them standing still. I've built Iandsmith up quite a portfolio now and am currently working on an album of the best.
Fearless Top Pool The old viaduct Lorraine Parker Davies Creek Falls John Walker Brian Eglinton
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=22104 BWA October 2016 | 39 40 | BWA October 2016
Tasmania November 2015
WINNER
Summer is coming but Pindars Peek has it's winter coat on MJD
Pandani grotto Nicholls Rivulet at sunset Osik Caedencekuepper
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=22105 BWA October 2016 | 41 42 | BWA October 2016
Landscapes November 2015
WINNER
Tarkine wanderings Davo1
Looking back to Mt Wylly In dry times Little Bay South West from the lower slopes of John Walker Rocks National Park Victoria Cross - MJD Lorraine
Life in the pond A silent universe Bartle Frere from Mt Baldy Iandsmith Osik Brian Eglinton
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=22107 BWA October 2016 | 43 44 | BWA October 2016
Non-landscapes November 2015
WINNER I started shooting dragonflies, aka the "jewels of the sky", when I was on a trip to Western Australia. It was the bright red ones that first got me in. After a time I started actually looking for them, learning their habits and what was interesting. One of the things was the emeralds (named because of when light is refracted in their eyes). They were so hard to get a picture of because they're always on the wing. Many others rest frequently and are easy to shoot, not so the emeralds. So, when the opportunity presented itself to catch them mating, I could barely contain my excitement.
Tau emeralds mating Iandsmith
Mossy tree Above and below Backlight Whorl Milford John Walker Lorraine Kitty
Ghost tree Red and green Osik Brian Eglinton
To see the all the entries check out http://www.bushwalk.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=22&t=22106 BWA October 2016 | 45 46 | BWA October 2016
Choosing a GPS Keith Tan
Presented with a myriad of GPS gadgetry, it's often difficult to decide what option is appropriate for a bushwalker. Do you need a GPS? How do you decide on what models to get? Why are the prices so varied? What comes with the GPS?
Keith in Iceland Keith Tan BWA October 2016 | 47
Global Positioning System (GPS) is one of I'm comfortable with a map and compass the satellite systems in the Global Navigation - do I need a GPS? Satellite System (GNSS) umbrella. GPS use A GPS may be invaluable when bushwalking has become ubiquitous. GPSs are expected in unfamiliar places, or when there's no in mobile phones and tablets. They're used sightlines. There may be reduced visibility in radio controlled toys, security tracking, in fog or a whiteout, or you've walked off farming applications, safety beacons and the intended track and under the canopy be autonomous unable to see landmarks to triangulate your ... GPS chipsets vehicles. GPSs position. The faint pad may have petered and antenna are important for out in scrub. At dusk or night you might be combinations in smart timing standards, walking in low light. In these scenarios a GPS phones“ and tablets are with mobile is highly useful. not equal; some are more phone towers accurate than others. synchronising A GPS can easily log walks and mark their time with GPS time. changed track conditions for later use or to share with others. The track log record Outdoor GPS use has expanded from is automatic, and marking waypoints is traditional activities like bushwalking, relatively simple. When used with paper skiing, cycling, paragliding and skydiving to maps, a GPS can confirm the location geotagging photography, social networking quickly. activities, geocaching and games.
Term Description A wireless technology that allows monitoring devices to connect ANT+ with each other. Global Navigation Satellite System. Currently the United States GPS GNSS and Russian GLONASS are the only fully functioning GNSS. Others include China’s Compass/BeiDou, European Unions’ Galileo. Global Positioning System is the GNSS launched and operated by the United States. Operational globally since 1994, it uses up GPS to 32 satellites and is currently the world’s most utilised satellite navigation system. Global Positioning System Receiver - a handheld GPS receiver GPSr designed for outdoor recreational use Almanac data allows the GPS receiver to rapidly acquire satellites shortly after it is turned on. It consists of the coarse orbit and status information for all satellites in the constellation, an ionospheric Almanac data model, and timing information. It is used by GPSr to identify the visible satellites overhead based on the time/location stored in the GPSr. The precise satellite orbit data. Each satellite transmits its own ephemeris data which allows the GPSr to calculate the satellite’s Ephemeris data position, and in turn with trilateration (a more complex version of triangulation) to determine the receiver’s location. A group of waypoints entered into the GPSr in the sequence you Route desire to navigate them. A record of your current direction of travel relative to a ground Track/ Breadcrumb position. A GPSr will record a set of waypoints at a set interval, trail and joined together, they form the track log, also known as a breadcrumb trail. Waypoint Waypoints are location positions recorded and stored on the GPSr. 48 | BWA October 2016
Of course, a GPS should not replace good Categories of GPS consumer devices navigation skills with maps and compass. Automotive navigation models – Most GPSs may fail, be damaged, or have a flat people will be familiar with these. Some battery, and GPS signals may be blocked or models can display topographical maps, but spoofed in extreme circumstances. Maps are inappropriate and a good compass should always be for bushwalking due Some cycling carried as a backup, or better still, use the to the short battery GPSs can display GPS as a backup to maps and compass life, durability and topographical maps and when bushwalking. software limitations. be“ used for bushwalking ... However, there are I want a GPS - where do I start? a few hand-held GPS models that can be Smart phones and tablets with GPS used as an automotive GPS. These include Improvements in GPS chipsets in smart the Garmin Montana, Monterra and the phones means that they are becoming a Magellan 510/610/710. viable navigation option. With the right smart phone, appropriate software, a durable Marine GPS models - Some hand-held protective case, and a battery charger, some marine GPSs like the Garmin GPSMap newer devices may work well outdoors fully 78 or the GPS72/GPS73 can be used offline with no mobile signal required. When for bushwalking, but have been primarily used offline, smart phone battery life with designed for marine use with the ability to GPS only may compare favourably with float if dropped overboard. hand-held GPSs. Aviation GPS - Portable aviation GPSs are It's important to understand that GPS usually unsuited for bushwalking, as the chipsets and antenna combinations in smart software is geared towards aviation use. phones and tablets are not equal; some are more accurate than others. Similarly, not all Cycling GPS - Some cycling GPSs can GPS applications are created equal. It may display topographical maps and be used for be complicated for beginners dipping their bushwalking, but the software is typically toes into GPS use, and this article focuses geared towards cycling, such as the Garmin on available consumer GPSs. Edge and Magellan Cyclo. Dedicated hand-held GPS models still have Wrist-based GPS and watches - The main the advantages of durability and battery life. considerations are the small screen size, the battery life, and most models cannot incorporate maps. Hand-held GPS receiver (GPSr) - This article primarily focuses on these dedicated hand-held models. The Australian market for hand-held GPSrs is dominated by just two brands, Garmin and Magellan. There were other brands, however they either no longer produce hand-held devices or their products are generally unavailable in Australia. Categories of Hand-held GPSrs Hand-held GPSrs broadly come in two formats: non-mapping capable, and mapping capable.
1. Basic non-mapping models – These include the Garmin Foretrex 401, the basic Magellan Explorist models like GC and 110, and Garmin eTrex 10. These might have a basic world base map, but
Garmin Oregon 650 near Mt Rufus Weiyun Yu BWA October 2016 | 49
the devices usually don't support more helps minimise the issue of having set detailed topographical maps. You can an incorrect datum on the GPSr. If you use them to leave a breadcrumb trail and set an incorrect datum and enter a grid mark waypoints on the device, but these reference, the are best used in conjunction with paper mapping GPSr ... a wet maps. Basic non-mapping GPSrs also displays the location screen tends include some watch-based GPSs, GPS on the map and it to make touch screen watches, and some cycling GPSs. will be easier to see “use frustrating. if this is correct. A basic non-mapping GPSr would suit if: • Button input mapping models - • The GPSr is a backup to derive your These include the Garmin Etrex location to check on paper maps, and/ 20/30/20x/30x, Garmin GPS Map or series (64, 78s etc), Magellan Explorist 310. They have mapping capabilities You intend to log your tracks and mark • and utilise buttons for screen waypoints to reference on paper maps. navigation and interaction. Button GPSrs have a setting to adjust the datum inputs are slower than using a touch used. When using a different datum screen, however, these models will setting on the GPSr compared with the typically have a longer battery life than datum on the paper maps, the GPS the equivalent touch screen models. co-ordinates will result in incorrect grid Touch screen input mapping models references. Therefore, it is important • – these include the Garmin Oregon, when using a non-mapping GPSr, that the Garmin Montana, Monterra, and datum setting matches the paper maps Garmin Etrex touch series or Magellan being used. Explorist 510, 610, 710. They have Note that some GPS watches and bicycle the ability to include topographical GPSs have datums that cannot be maps and the advantage of screen changed, and cannot display familiar grid navigation using the touch screen. formats. These models might only report GPS touch screens are well behind a longitude and latitude and the user smart phone touch screens, but they must convert these manually to a grid make screen navigation and data input reference. significantly easier. I've used gloves with newer touch screen models like 2. Mapping capable models – These the Oregon 600 and found them to be come in two basic styles - button-based, acceptable, but see below. or touch screen. The touch screen models are typically more expensive. Choosing between button or touch screen One advantage of mapping GPSrs is models that if you have a topo map installed Button-based models use a combination of your position will be displayed the buttons on the GPS map. This makes it easier to compare for data input and ... I find the with your position on paper maps, and screen navigation. trip computer This is a slower than handy to determine using a touch screen. my“ walking pace A touted benefit of and distance already button-based models covered. was that they could be operated when wearing gloves. This has been somewhat negated by the newer touch screen models which are glove-friendly. However, the touch screen the author has used (Garmin Oregon 600) did not fare so well when the screen is wet. While gloves 50 | BWA October 2016 can be used on the screen, a wet screen stopwatch, satellite information, ideal fishing tends to make touch screen use frustrating. days, man overboard, proximity alarm The wet screen can lead to unintended when approaching a saved waypoint, tides screen touches. Button models work best in information. The majority of these standard wet conditions. features are rarely used in bushwalking. If you are Both options should have a keylock to on a budget prevent accidental button presses when the Of these additional and looking at GPS is stowed. I've experienced accidental features I find the trip second-hand“ button presses that have either added computer handy to GPSr, this might unintended waypoints, or worse, deleted determine my walking be an important routes and tracks by mistake. pace and distance consideration. already covered. Common basic features of hand-held Combined with the sunset time and a GPSr models graphical representation of the route elevation I can easily see if I need to pick • Display current location coordinates, in a up the pace or look for a camp site before variety of datums and position formats. darkness descends. If you have a map capable model, it will display your location on the map. Durability, weight and size GPSrs are designed with durability and water • Record a track log. All GPSrs record track resistance in mind. Typically, a GPSr will have logs of your bushwalks, and can display a waterproof rating of at least IPX7. It should the "breadcrumb" trail on the screen for work after immersion in one metre of water later reference. The number of track logs for 30 minutes, in rain or after river crossings, and waypoints each model can record but not for swimming or snorkelling. depends on the memory on the device. While GPSs are more rugged than most • Navigation. All GPSrs can navigate "as smart phones, they are still electronic the crow flies" to a specific location devices with screens, albeit with thicker or follow a pre-set route with given plastic casing and waterproof seals. Optional coordinates. cases suitable for most GPSrs give extra Other basic standard features include a trip protection. computer, compass, geocache options, a GPSs with batteries usually weigh 150- photo viewer, sunrise/sunset information, 200 grams. Garmin Montana (290 grams) area calculator, calculator, alarm, calendar, and Monterra (330 grams) are exceptions. Smaller models might fit more easily in the hand, but have smaller screens. GPS Chipsets Most modern GPSrs use high-sensitivity GPS chipsets, including ones that are able to track multiple channels simultaneously. Newer chipsets have improved the initial GPS acquisition time, increased the GPS signal stability, and have improved reception of multiple satellites in adverse conditions such as under tree canopy, in heavy weather, or partially indoors. If you are on a budget and looking at second-hand GPSr, this might be an important consideration. The SiRFStar III chipset was used almost exclusively by manufacturers a decade ago in high-end GPSrs, seting something of a Garmin Oregon 600 gold standard. Since then, new chipsets Keith Tan BWA October 2016 | 51 from other manufacturers like MediaTek track). More Fortunately, tracks and STMicroelectronics have emerged, and advanced Garmin and waypoints have been adopted by GPSr brands. These models increase are usually in a standard newer high-performance GPS chipsets use the number of format,“ and can be low energy and can receive additional GNSS waypoints storage shared between different signals like the Russian GLONASS. to 4000 (Garmin GPS brands ... eTrex Touch, Memory Button Orgeon 600/650, Montana), or 10,000 for the As with smart newer Garmin Oregon 700/750. phones, hand-held models tend to use less power and GPSrs use onboard Antennas “will last longer memory to store Hand-held GPSs have two sorts of antennas. information such as maps, routes, tracks, Internal is typically a flat ceramic patch waypoints, points of interest, and on more antenna, and external is a quad helix advanced models, photos and videos. The antenna. I would not get hung up on the memory you require depends on the type of external vs internal antenna. It may have maps and other data (like photos or other been an issue in the past, but the quality of media) that you intend to store on the device. the ceramic patch antennas in new internal While the GPSr onboard memory is usually antenna models is significantly better than not upgradeable, on most models it can be the older ones. I've found that there is supplemented with a memory card slot. The little real difference in time to first fix with Magellan and Garmin basic eTrex models the newer models with internal antennas store 2000 waypoints, 200 routes, and 200 compared with the protruding quad helix tracks (comprising 10,000 waypoints per antenna.
Android smartphone low battery Keith Tan 52 | BWA October 2016
Battery considerations batteries used for the Foretrex 101. You can Most GPSrs take replaceable AA batteries, find a 10-year-old Foretrex 101, insert AAA however there are some that come with batteries and still have it working. built-in lithium batteries. Some brands like Holux have models that use rechargeable Typically, touch screen GPSrs using AA lithium ion batteries, which can last as long batteries will run for 10-12 hours while as rechargeable NiMH AAs or Lithium AAs. logging tracks continuously. Button I've found that the built-in internal lithium models tend to use less power and will batteries in such models are similar to those last longer - the Garmin eTrex 20x/30x is in smart phones. Over time the internal advertised at around 25 hours. Note that the battery degrades, and tends not to last as manufacturer’s specified battery life tends to long as replaceable batteries (especially if be on the optimistic side, and depending on not used for a while), and it can be difficult the type of batteries used, actual battery life to source replacements when the lithium might be shorter. battery finally dies. These models need to go Mapping considerations to a specialist for replacing. Replacing can Most newer GPSs have colour screens; be difficult when the model is discontinued. older and basic models might still sport By comparison, a 15-year-old GPSr that uses monochrome screens. Maps are easier to AA or AAA batteries might still work today. read on colour screens. Some mapping For example, the Garmin Foretrex 201 had capable GPSrs include topographical maps, an internal lithium battery that was not user however most do not, and will require a replaceable. When the original batteries separate map purchase. Manufacturers were depleted, commonly within 3-5 years, it occasionally have promotions to include proved more difficult to replace than the AAA topographical maps with your purchase or by redemption with your receipt.
Garmin Oregon 600 Keith Tan BWA October 2016 | 53
All models include a basic world basemap. website. Depending on the maps chosen, the The Magellan World Edition basemap is maps range from an additional $1-200. There more detailed than the very basic Garmin are third party digital map providers that also basemap, but both are sparse on detail. create maps for Garmin. Oztopo has been Mapping is an important consideration as if it making Garmin-compatible topographical is not pre-bundled with the GPSr, it can be a maps for Australia since 2006 and their significant additional cost. current version is priced from $229. The Magellan Explorist 710 Be Additionally, Open Street Maps (OSM) are comes with turn by turn wary of community-based mapping and is free. OSM Australian street maps and over-investing maps can be installed on Garmin models in“ advanced GeoScience topographic easily. OSM maps can also be used in map and the Magellan models with Magellan models, but the process is a little Explorist 610 comes with features that more complex. Summit Series Topo Maps you may never pre-bundled. The lower or rarely use Newer Garmin GPSs can also display models like the Explorist scanned and georeferenced maps. The 510 and 310 are not bundled with topo maps process to create these maps involves some as standard, but these can be purchased technical knowledge and use of a number of separately - the current price is around $A50 free/paid PC programs and the process can per state, or $A150 for Australia and New be quite complex. Garmin have instructions Zealand. New Zealand Magellan topo maps on georeferencing scanned maps on their are around $A100. website. For Garmin, only the models that have a Note that purchased maps downloaded or “t” designation at the end of their model on DVD will be licensed to the serial number numbers are sold with topo maps, For on the specific device. This prevents you example, Garmin Oregon 600t has maps sharing the map with someone who has the while the Oregon 600 does not. Garmin topo same GPS. However, if maps are purchased maps can be purchased either on microSD on a memory card, you will be able to use card maps, DVD, or download them from the that memory card in any compatible GPSr.
GPSs available in Australia suitable for bushwalking Model Garmin Garmin Garmin Garmin Garmin Magellan Magellan eTrex 10 eTrex eTrex Oregon Montana 310 510/610/ 20x/30x 25/35 600/650/ 610/680t 710 700/750t Screen size 5.6 cm 5.6 cm 6.6 cm 7.6 cm 10.2 cm 5.6 cm 7.6 cm Weight 142 g 142 g 159 g 210 g 289 g 147 g 195 g Battery life 25 hours 25 hours 16 hours 16 hours 16-22 hrs 18 hours 15-16 hours Mapping ** No Capable Capable Cap./ Cap./ Capable Cap./ Incl. Incl. Incl. Buttons/ Touch Buttons Buttons Touch Touch Touch Buttons Touch ECompass No 30x only 35 only Yes Yes No Yes Alti/Baro No 30x only 35 only Yes Yes No Yes Spoken Street No No No No Yes No Yes Navigation Price* $120-150 $275-375 $350-430 $500-675 $680-880 $170-190 $270-550 ** Note that only certain models include pre-installed maps 54 | BWA October 2016
Other considerations these augmentation systems do not reach A major source when researching GPSs is Australia, so they will only benefit those internet forums, where users discuss their hiking in the US or Europe. experiences of various models, including software bugs. Also, other users might share Electronic compass - All GPSrs have a maps they created for that device. There's no directional compass. This means that when standard map format between the two main in motion, the GPSr compares your current GPS brands so maps created for use for position with your previous position, it can Garmin models cannot be used in Magellan determine which direction is north. However, models. when you are stationary, only GPSr with a built-in electronic compass will be able to GPSr Fortunately, tracks and provide an accurate bearing. require waypoints are usually in a minimum of a standard format, and In addition, some models have a two three“ satellites can be shared between axis electronic compass,meaning the to determine different GPS brands, GPSr has to be held horizontally to get an the horizontal although some tweaking accurate bearing. Others have a three axis position. might be required between electronic compass so that the reading different brands. There are a number of will be accurate even Understand websites where GPS users upload their if you hold the GPSr the grid tracks for walks. These can be downloaded vertically. If you have reference system and used as routes when installed on your a magnetic compass, this may seem like an on“ your paper GPSr. unnecessary addition maps, and make Additional features as you could manually sure it matches the The differences in the more advanced model orientate the GPSr datum used on the include things like electronic compass, with your magnetic GPS. barometer, other sensors like ANT+ for compass. connectivity, etc. These are some of the additional features you might find on more Barometer - Used for elevation correction advanced models. and weather tracking. While a GPS is great for horizontal accuracy, it's less so for Other satellite systems - GPS is not vertical accuracy. This is primarily the reason the only satellite navigation system. for the barometer, a tool to compensate Some models can also track the Russian for the GPS elevation. The GPS elevation GLONASS, and there are other systems like is derived from a the ellipsoid model of the Chinese BeiDou or European Gallileo. the earth rather than the actual elevation. Currently, some consumer GPSrs can access Alternatively, map elevations, are usually GLONASS satellites, however smart phones based on a vertical datum tied to the geoid. and tablets have GPS chipsets that can receive the other satellite navigation signals. The Garmin website says that “it is common Including these other systems in a GPSr for GPS satellite heights to be off from map increases the speed and accuracy of the elevations by ± 400 feet.” The use of properly reported position. calibrated barometric altimeter can reduce this vertical error to ± 10 feet. GPS Augmentation systems - These can be ground based (GBAS) or space based Mountain weather is rarely constant, so to (SBAS). These augmentation systems maintain vertical accuracy the barometer work to improve the horizontal accuracy needs to be regularly calibrated against a of the GPS position. In Garmin and some known height or pressure. Again, if you are Magellan models they use the European carrying paper maps or have digital maps SBAS European Geostationary Navigation installed, with knowledge of your position, Overlay Service (EGNOS) system, and you could determine the elevation from the in the US the FAA's GBAS Wide Area maps themselves. Augmentation System (WAAS). However, BWA October 2016 | 55
Another advantage of the barometer is that free alternatives, which may require some it can also log a trend of barometric and technical jiggery-pokery. ambient pressure readings which can be used to predict forthcoming weather. If you decide you don’t need mapping capabilities, the basic models are good Camera - Digital cameras to take value. Be wary of over-investing in advanced automatically geo-tagged photos and videos. models with features that you may never or rarely use. Wireless connectivity – This is for data transfer to another GPSr or with a computer. If considering a second-hand or discontinued This could be used on a track to share GPSr, be aware that they may have inferior waypoints or camp locations. Newer models GPS chipsets, or may have non-user have Bluetooth, Wifi or ANT+ connectivity. replaceable built-in batteries, or not have simple computer connectivity. What will it cost? Finally, it comes down to price. Models with Once you have have your GPSr, it is more features, are more expensive, often important to understand the basics substantially. For example, a Garmin eTrex 30x has an electronic compass, barometric • Understand the screen icons to know altimeter and wireless connectivity, which the the accuracy of the displayed positional eTrex 20x does not have, for an extra $100. fix. The GPSr might have poor satellite The eTrex 20x has buttons and the the eTrex reception and report a poorer accuracy 25 has a touch screen, $75 more. than with a good signal.
If you are a novice A “hot start” • Know how to select the co-ordinate GPS user, these is the quickest system, and when to use LAT/LON for additions are nice GPS lock ... nautical maps, and UTM (Universal to have but are not “ Transverse Mercator), military grid absolutely necessary. As mentioned above, reference system (MGRS), DMS (Degrees if not included with the GPSr, mapping may Minutes Seconds), or Decimal Degrees be another additional cost. There may be for land topographical maps. 56 | BWA October 2016
• Understand the grid reference system With a GNSS argumentation system like on your paper maps, and make sure it the US WAAS or European EGNOS, the matches the datum used on the GPS. The accuracy can be increased to around three incorrect setting of a AGD66 datum on metres. Australia currently does not have the GPSr when you are using a GDA94 a similar system that can be accessed by datum physical map will result in a consumer GPSrs. horizontal error of some 200m. The 10 metre accuracy does not mean that • Know how to set a point on the GPS to a the GPS derived position is 10 metres from point on the paper map or vice versa. the actual absolute location. It is instead an estimate of position error, a representation of • As with any tools, practise using with a the probability of your position being within physical map in a known location before radius of the actual location. Further, there is setting out bush no standard for the calculation of this error, so the "accuracy" shown between brands GPS accuracy concerns cannot be directly compared. GPSr require a minimum of three satellites to determine the horizontal position. This In ideal scenarios, the accuracy of GPSrs is known as a two-dimensional (2D) GPS can be significantly better, displaying three position fix, which does not include elevation. metre accuracy. To determine elevation and achieve a 3D fix, the GPSr will require a minimum of four Unfavourable situations that may negatively visible satellites. impact GPS accuracy include being under dense canopy, in canyons or steep valleys Recreational grade GPSrs like those where the satellite signal is obstructed, discussed in this article typically have a reflected, or refracted. horizontal accuracy of around 10 metres.
A Garmin eTrex 10 BWA October 2016 | 57
Why your GPSr might take a while to to lock on to the same satellites used in the display a position previous start. A hot start is usually under 30 When first turning on the GPS, known as a seconds. cold start, it does not know your location, and does not know what satellites are If you don’t use the GPS for a long time or overhead. Once it locates the first satellite, it travel to a new location, the GPS will typically downloads the almanac data, the information have to dump the previous information, and on the other satellites, which can take up to begin on a cold start again. 15 minutes. It then downloads the ephemeris Summary data (the information on that particular Back country GPS use is anathema to some satellite and its orbit), and this can take bushwalkers who prefer the traditional map a while depending on your signal quality. and compass, but for others it is a welcome Newer models have brought this down to a tool. minute or two, while older GPSs could take longer in challenging conditions . When bushwalking, If you don’t as long as you use the GPS for The next type of start is the “warm start”. are aware of the a long time or travel This occurs when the GPSr has a valid limitations of GPS to“ a new location, the almanac (the almanac data is valid for 180 and own skills GPS will typically have days), you are within 100 kilometres radius and knowledge, a to dump the previous of the last time the GPSr acquired a fix, and GPSr can provide information, and begin the GPSr has been turned on within the past more confidence on a cold start again. three days. The GPSr will then seek out at in navigation. In least four satellites overhead to download the situations where there's no visible landmarks ephemeris data, which takes 30 seconds to for orientation or where the trails have eroded around five minutes. or subtle route markers missed, the GPSr can A “hot start” is the quickest GPS lock and lead less confident navigators back on track. is achieved when the GPS is effectively in More expensive models are not necessarily the same location that it was last turned on better, and an entry level model may meet and has valid ephemeris data for at least the bushwalker’s needs. As long as the five satellites and had a fix within the past bushwalker has the requisite base navigation two hours. The GPS remembers its last skills and adopts common sense, the GPSr calculated position and the satellites in view, can be used as a tool to enhance your the almanac used, the time, and attempts enjoyment of the bush.
Keith is a freelance project manager from Melbourne. His first GPS receiver some 15 years ago was a clip-on attachment to a PalmPilot PDA that set him on his journey into the world of GPS navigation. After a hiatus from outdoor pursuits, he rediscovered his love of bushwalking while working overseas. Since then he has taken to walking adventures in Borneo, Nepal, Romania, Croatia, Norway and Iceland. When not tinkering with gadgetry and geocaching, he is planning his next walk. 58 | BWA October 2016
Water Requirements on a Bushwalk Helen Smith
How much water is needed on bushwalks? This is one of the most contentious topics among bushwalkers, next to the shoe vs boot debate. Some of the debate comes from the difference in understanding between water intake verses actually drinking water. In this article we look at total water intake including from food. Other debate arises around how long your body can hold a water debt for, and here we look at maintaining optimum hydration levels. BWA October 2016 | 59
Incredibly, the human body is mostly water, = 15-25°C), bushwalkers carrying a pack about 50-70% for males and 40-60% for of under 10 kilograms require about half a females. Hence, adults have 30-40 kilograms litre of water for every hour of walking. So of water. A loss as small as 2% of this water a typical four hour spring day walk means may have serious effects on performance, that two litres should be drunk. However, so staying well hydrated is critical for feeling it only takes an increase of 5°C (WBGT) for good and performing well on a bushwalk. the water requirement to increase by 50%. Under these Water comes from fluids and eating foods conditions, ... walks should with high water content such as fresh or bushwalkers have ample tinned fruit. Water loss occurs through require about supplies of reliable water sweat, urination and respiration. Sweat three quarters “at regular intervals ... increases when the body heats up in hotter of a litre of and/or more humid conditions, and with water for every hour of walking. more exertion. Sweat is the body’s cooling mechanism; sweat resting on the skin Once the WBGT exceeds 32°C, water surface cools the skin. But it comes at a requirements are about one litre per price: loss of body water, triggering thirst, hour, and extended walking may become and a desire to drink and replenish body impractical. Under such conditions, walks water. Water loss due should have ample supplies of reliable water to sweat is far lower at regular intervals, with distances and when resting in shade ...bushwalkers climbing shorter if at all possible. Another and when there’s carrying a pack of option is to walk during the cooler parts of more wind chill. under“ 10 kilograms the day. require half a litre of Wet bulb globe water for every hour Water Balancing temperature (WBGT) of walking. Getting the water and salt intake balance is a “feels like” right temperature based on actual temperature Keeping well hydrated is a balancing act plus humidity, wind chill and shade. WBGT between drinking enough to stay hydrated provides a more accurate indication of but not so much that essential salts are the temperature as perceived by humans. too diluted. While both can lead to serious Probable WBGT can be used to plan which medical conditions, they’re easy enough to walk to do and how much water to carry. avoid with proper planning and awareness. Urine colour is a visual indication of hydration US Army guidelines give a good indication levels. In general, the better hydrated the of water needs, translating well to Australian body the lighter the urine colour. bushwalks. Under spring conditions (WBGT
WBGT Feels like Water needs Notes
~15°C Cool spring day 0.5 litre/hour Great walking weather
~25°C Warm spring day 0.5 litre/hour Great walking weather
~28°C Warm-hot summer day 0.5 litre/hour Take a short rest every hour
~30°C Hot summer day 0.75 litre/hour Take several short rests every hour Rest 20 minutes for every 50 minutes ~32°C Very hot summer day 0.75 litre/hour of walking Extremely hot summer Minimum of Physical activity should be kept to a >32°C day 1 litre/hour minimum 60 | BWA October 2016
The human body makes the best use of Dehydration water when it is ingested in small amounts Dehydration affects physical performance regularly, allowing time for water to be and occurs when the body loses water faster absorbed and used in the system. That’s than it is replenished. When the overall body why it’s important to drink regularly on a water content drops by 2%, dehydration bushwalk. Hydration bladders make drinking signs and symptoms occur. small amounts regularly very easy. Some people struggle to drink enough water. If Signs and symptoms of early dehydration so, try lightly flavouring water with cordial 2% of water body mass loss include: or setting a drinking goal, perhaps marking Flushed skin “drink-to” points on the water bottle. Note • Weariness that flavouring water will render this water • Sleepiness and perhaps make the container unsuitable • Impatience for meals or other drinks. •
Caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee are Moderate dehydration mild diuretics, causing increased passing of 4% of water body mass loss urine. Drinking these can lead to dehydration Apathy if they’re drunk in large quantities or if • Muscle fatigue Urine colour is a the body isn’t used to them, but in small • Nausea visual indication amounts such as on a bushwalk they provide • of hydration levels. similar hydrating qualities to water. “ Severe dehydration Soft drinks and 6% of water body mass loss energy drinks are The human Headache less effective at body makes • Dizziness hydrating than the best use of • water“ when it is • Shortness of breath water due to Tingling in limbs the high sugar ingested in small • Very dry mouth content. High sugar amounts regularly ... • concentrations If someone in the group has signs of slow fluid absorption into the blood system. dehydration, stop in a shade and administer Some energy drinks also contain caffeine, first aid. Make sure that the patient responds guanine and preservatives which can even to stimuli and remove the their hot clothing. have negative effects on performance. Encourage the patient to drink small sips of Occasionally, people react badly to these water. Consider shortening the trip and not kinds of drinks, so it's best to try these at walk in the hottest time of day, about noon-2 home first, or better – just stick to water! pm. Check all the party for dehydration and encourage everyone to drink. BWA October 2016 | 61
Why electrolytes are so important Hyponatremia Electrolytes are body salts necessary for Hyponatremia is a rare condition that occurs muscle and nerve function. As with body when the sodium content in the blood is too water, electrolytes too are lost via sweat, and low. This causes fluid to move into the cells must be replenished via eating healthy foods making them swell, and has been known to that are high in electrolytes. This applies in be fatal. particular when bushwalking on hot days and when working hard because of increased Hyponatremia can occur by drinking too sweating. much water or losing too much salt via sweat, but also from organ abnormalities or In general, eating a balanced diet of fruits, reactions to medication. nuts, vegetables and dairy is a healthy way of replacing salts such as sodium, chloride, Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia potassium and calcium . This diet includes: include: Headache • Coconut water • Muscle cramps • Leafy greens • Heart palpitations • Tomatoes • • Decreased consciousness • Celery ... eating • Confusion • Bananas a balanced • Fatigue • Yoghurt diet of fruits, nuts, • Lethargy • Nuts vegetables“ and • Beans dairy is a healthy On a bushwalk, if hyponatremia is suspected, It’s not practical to way of replacing apply DRSABCD. Stop and rest in the shade, carry some of these salts ... and encourage the patient to eat something foods on a bushwalk. high in sodium like biscuits or chips, or pure Instead, stock up before and after the walk salt (keep sachets in first aid kit). Monitor on items like yoghurt and greens, and take the patient and call for help if the situation nuts and fruit on the walk. Note that some deteriorates. food requires more water than others to digest. Although rare, hyponatremia is becoming more common due to people drinking too There’s a huge amount of hype and media much when exercising. It must be treated around sports drinks and their hydration seriously as it can be life threatening, just the power, although research shows there’s little same as drinking too little water. In short, it’s difference between them and water. Their about getting the balance of water and salt main selling point is to replenish electrolytes, intake right. although this is only needed for prolonged intensive exercise. As sports drinks tend to So on a bushwalk, drink well according be extremely sugary and filled with artificial to the body’s water needs under various flavouring, eating a balanced diet is a temperature conditions, eat well and have healthier alternative. fun! Helen Smith is a passionate conservationist and someone who is constantly planning her next escape into the bush. In early 2015 she completed her PhD at The University of Sydney studying the impacts of exotic and native rodents in Australia and New Zealand. Now she’s working at the National Parks Association NSW developing information to help bushwalkers build their confidence and bushcraft skills. 62 | BWA October 2016
Naturally Accessible Helen Smith, National Parks Association of NSW
How many overnight bushwalks do we have in Australia? With thousands of destinations and all the on track and off track options there are plenty for a lifetime of walking. Yet for people with a disability, bushwalking options are much more limited.
On the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail Eva Gomiscek BWA October 2016 | 63
Incredibly, after a detailed search, I haven’t tracks. Of course, the advantage of these found a single overnight walk anywhere in tracks are that literally anyone can do them, the world that is promoted as accessible for but the disadvantages are that these tracks people who use a wheelchair. Yet there are are expensive and slow to develop, and plenty of people with disabilities exploring substantial infrastructure fails to connect the wild places, so why is there such a big user with nature. disconnect? Hence, in NSW, the types of accessible I think it comes down to information walks that we have are all extremely short, provision. Tracks do exist for people with taking users only a few minutes to complete. mobility restrictions to go adventuring, We don’t think that this is a fulfilling way to camping and overnight bushwalking. Sure, access natural places, and we believe we there will be a number of obstacles and can do better. barriers to overcome, but knowing exactly It’s about what they are and where are the first steps to We want to turn the improving designing strategies to overcome them (e.g. idea of accessibility access to natural ducking underneath a gate, bringing enough on its head and give places“ with better people on the walk to help you up a few back the choice to information. steps). We just need to find a way to share the user to decide that information so that more people can whether a track is suitable for them or not. get out into amazing wild Information-based solutions address the places. ... give needs of a range of people. For instance, back the people with heart conditions need flatter The National Parks choice to the walks, and others need seats at regular Association of NSW (NPA) user“ to decide intervals. We give choice by providing is thrilled to introduce a whether a track information on barriers and facilities, new project “Naturally is suitable for integrated with online bushwalking sources Accessible”. It’s about them or not. like Wildwalks. Information-based solutions improving access to are an alternative to going in and concreting natural places with better information. everything, and sit well with the NPA's ethic We think this will not only help our older of minimal impact bushwalking. members continue bushwalking for many years to come, but it will also prove to have Let’s take Frank as an example. Frank had a enormous benefits to the broader community stroke last year which left him weakened on such as people in wheelchairs, parents with one side of his body. Now he uses a crutch prams, and others. to get around. He still loves getting out bushwalking with the family but needs to rest Traditionally, accessibility issues have been frequently along the track. Therefore, a walk solved with infrastructure. That means with regular seats is important for him. So a going in and concreting or boarding over all good solution for Frank is track notes with natural barriers and creating smooth, short information about the frequency and type of
Naturally Accessible home page www.naturallyaccessible.org 64 | BWA October 2016 seats on the track. This information could social, emotional and health benefits for be presented as icons on a map, with more everyone, so if you know anyone that is detailed notes at the end. If available online, interested in helping, please get in touch! Frank could search for tracks with seats no more than, say, 500 metres apart. NPA is emerging as a leader in accessibility. We We This concept could want to help our members hope to We’re then be applied for to bushwalk for longer help a broad looking range“ of communicating other and to share this also with for volunteers barriers as well including the wider community. people in the to“ interview for gates, fences, gradient, Information-based community ... the first stage surface, etc. We hope solutions fit in with the of the project. to help a broad range of philosophy of the NPA: by reducing heavy people in the community, from bushwalkers infrastructure and increasing availability of with medical conditions, to people in high-quality information, we can help people wheelchairs or others who need walking aids and have less impact on natural places. right through to families with young children NPA wants to be the driving force of social and prams. change, where the act of going for a simple day walk in a national park is possible We’re looking for volunteers to interview for anyone and everyone in Australia and for the first stage of the project. We’d love all visitors have meaningful and fulfilling to chat to anyone and everyone who is experiences in nature. interested in this research and can help us identify how best to use information-based For more information, visit the NPA Naturally solutions to help people get out into natural Accessible website or contact me at Helen places. Getting out into nature has enormous Smith.
Team photo of Naturally Accessible with NPWS at the Kamay National Park. Left to right: Sasa (NPWS), Matt (NPA) and Helen (NPA). Photo credit Sasa Dolinsek. BWA October 2016 | 65
In the News
Walking in nature helps to keep you healty “When we walk, we naturally go to the fields and woods. What would become of us, if we walked only in a garden or a mall?” wrote Henry David Thoreau in The Atlantic in 1862. Sitting inside all day is just not natural, it’s not good for us. And, not surprisingly, urbanisation is associated with increased levels of brooding and mental illness, including depression. Walking in nature changes the brain – in a good way.
Move for Melanoma Enjoying the great outdoors can sometimes come at a cost. More than 13,000 people are diagnosed with melanoma – the most deadly form of skin cancer – each year in our country. Fortunately, Australian researchers are leading the way in the fight against melanoma, and in recent years they have tripled the life expectancy of some advanced melanoma patients. You can do your part to help put an end to melanoma by joining Move for Melanoma, a new initiative from Melanoma Institute Australia (MIA) through their Melanoma March campaign. It is an easy way for you to unite against melanoma and support research wherever you live, however you like and whenever suits you. You can Move for Melanoma anyway you like. Organise your own local bushwalk, or set yourself a personal challenge, like the Overland Trek in TAS or the Larapinta Trail in NT! Register to Move for Melanoma on the Melanoma March website to track your progress online and collect donations through your own online fundraising page. You can even connect your Fitbit to your fundraising page to update your supporters on how you’re going. All funds raised will help MIA move closer towards finding a cure for melanoma. Czech hiker survived for four weeks inside the New Zealand hut Tragedy that happened on New Zealand's Routeburn Track has been revealed. The woman who survived one month in the warden's hut was finally rescued. 66 | BWA October 2016
A Walk in the Woods Helps Your Body Jeffrey Craig and Susan L. Prescott
Have you ever wondered why you feel healthier and happier when you stroll through the trees or frolic by the sea? Is it just that you’re spending time away from work, de-stressing and taking in the view? Or is there more to it?
Diego Cervo BWA October 2016 | 67
For more than 20 years, scientists have The forest air been trying to determine the mechanisms The Japanese researchers suggested that we by which exposure to biodiversity improves are taking in beneficial substances when we health. Japanese scientists pioneered the breathe forest air. search when they travelled The Japanese Research has identified three major inhaled to the island already had a name factors that can make us feel healthier. These of Yakushima, for the experience of well- factors are beneficial bacteria, plant-derived being“ in nature: shinrin- essential oils and negatively-charged ions. famous for its biodiversity. yoku or “forest bathing”. From birth to the grave, beneficial bacteria The Japanese already had a name for the surround us; they live in the environment experience of well-being in nature: shinrin- and, importantly, in the air we breathe. We yoku or “forest bathing”. also share almost our entire body with them. The more interaction we have with them, the We do know that a diverse ecosystem happier and healthier we are. supports a varied and beneficial microbial community living around and inside us. This is in part due to our gut-dwelling bacteria, which break down the food we We also know that The Japanese cannot digest and produce substances that exposure to green researchers benefit us both physically and mentally. space, even within suggested that we are urban environments, Plants and the bacteria living on them can taking“ in beneficial increases our produce essential oils to fight off harmful substances when we physical and mental microorganisms. These are referred to breathe forest air. well-being. But what collectively as phytoncides, literally, “plant- are the mechanisms? derived exterminators”.
Path in Daintree National Park, Queensland Rafael Ben-Ari 68 | BWA October 2016
Research on the health benefits of plant Why not run in the park or by a river instead essential oils is in its infancy. But one recent of on a treadmill, or take a walk through a study found that a phytoncide from Korean park on the way to work or at lunchtime? pine trees improved the health and bacterial make-up of pigs. Critically, there is increasing evidence that we can help shape our children’s mental and Notwithstanding some of the pseudoscience physical health by exposing them to more that gets wrapped around negative ion green environments as they work, rest and generating machines, there is evidence play. The US-based Children and Nature that negative air ions may influence mental Network is a great resource of research news outlook in beneficial ways. There are and activities bringing children and nature relatively higher levels of negative air ions in together. forested areas and close to bodies of water. This may factor into the benefits of walking in In the World Health Organization report a forest or near the ocean. Connecting Global Priorities – Biodiversity and Human Health, released in December But as the German writer Goethe once said: last year, it was concluded that: " " Nature has neither kernel nor shell; she is Considering ‘microbial diversity’ as an everything at once." ecosystem service provider may contribute to bridging the chasm between ecology Bacteria, essential oils and negative ions and medicine/immunology [… ] the interact and influence each other. For relationships our individual bodies have with example, negative ions and phytoncides our microbiomes are a microcosm for the may dictate the microbial make-up within a vital relationships our species shares with natural environment. There is evidence that countless other organisms with which we this could also be taking place in the human share the planet." gut. It is easy to see that discussions of natural More to be done environments and human health are no mere Nature-relatedness, or biophilia in which an matter of intellectual fancy. individual feels connected to nature, has been linked with better health. In a paper published in December 2015 in Journal of Physiological Anthropology, But we have a long way to go before we can we’ve called for more research into the links more fully understand the mechanisms by between biodiversity and human physical which an innate love of nature can benefit our and mental well-being, particular in relation health. An important part of this discussion – to childhood, that most formative of times. an overlooked one in our opinion – is further understanding of an individual’s connection Wouldn’t it be good if by nurturing our to nature. environment we were also nurturing our children’s future health? Psychologists have convincingly demonstrated connections between nature relatedness and mental well-being. But Jeffrey Craig how does a greater personal affinity to Principal Research Fellow, Murdoch nature interact with dietary habits, personal Childrens Research Institute microbiome, physical activity levels and many other lifestyle variables that might be Susan L. Prescott intertwined with having such an affinity? Professor of Paediatrics, University of Western Australia In the meantime, while scientists turn over stones and search for important mechanistic The article was first published in The clues – including those related to biodiversity conversation (an independent source – there are many simple ways to capitalise on of news and views, sourced from the our biophilia. academic and research community and delivered direct to the public) on 31 January 2016. BWA October 2016 | 69
In the News
Nature Nanotechnology develops a new water purifier
They produced a tiny tablet that can save many lives by purifying water in minutes, just by being exposed to the sun. USA National Park grows Yosemite National Park has just been enlarged by 400 acres of lush meadowlands edged with cedars and ponderosa pines that provide habitat for some of California’s most threatened wildlife. Mining leases in Tarkine The Full Court of the Supreme Court has unanimously dismissed the Tasmanian Government’s appeal against an earlier ruling that the Tarkine National Coalition (TNC) was entitled to reasons for the Minister’s decision to grant mining leases for the Venture Minerals’ Mt Lindsay and Livingstone projects. In the lead judgment, his Honour Justice Estcourt found: “There is no merit in the Minister ’s appeal ... The present appeal is, in my view a shining example of an appeal failing to identify an error on the part of the primary judge. ” The State Government had argued that parliament intended to confine rights to reasons for decisions under the Mineral Resources Development Act 1995 to those directly affected by the decisions – landowners and mining companies. However, the Full Court upheld her Honour Justice Wood’s decision that the TNC was a “person aggrieved” by the Minister’s decisions, and therefore entitled to understand the reasons the mining leases were granted. Justice Estcourt noted: “ ... her Honour found that there was ample evidence that the TNC had an interest greater than an ordinary member of the public, that its interest in the Tarkine was long-standing, and that its reason for existing was to protect the natural values of the Tarkine.” Claire Bookless, EDO Tasmania’s litigation lawyer, said: “This decision is significant because it reaffirms that environmental groups, such as the TNC, also have a legitimate interest in mining decisions. These groups have a right to know why government decisions are made, and to challenge those decisions where the government has not complied with the law.” For more details see the EDO information. Free Delivery... to most of Australia!
LOWEST PRICES ON A RIPPING RANGE OF HIKING GEAR!
1300 914 007 www.snowys.com.au BWA October 2016 | 71
In the News
Free Delivery... to most of Australia!
Volunteers to help repair tracks in South-West Tasmania For a number of years the track leading to Lake Judd, Schnells Ridge and Mount Sarah Jane area of the Anne Range has been both deteriorating and becoming overgrown. One of the culprit plants is Bauera and in typical fashion it's expanding over the track and becoming quite dense, forcing walkers to one side because it is hard to push through. The track is the Red Tape Track, although maps also show it as the Lake Judd Track.
LOWEST PRICES ON A RIPPING RANGE OF HIKING GEAR!
The Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) which manages the area is starved of funds and the Ranger in Charge has approached the Friends of Mount Field (FMF) for assistance. The friends have worked with PWS at Mount Field for 15 years and a few locations outside Mount Field, but this will be one of the furthest from home base. This is a joint project between the FMF and PWS and volunteers are being sought from people interested in looking after the area, such as bushwalkers. The track is the Tasmanian World Heritage Area is some 135 kilometres from Hobart and takes nearly three hours to get there by car. It's envisaged that the initial work will be one day and is planned when daylight is reasonably long and in the more settled summer months of early 2017, probably January. The work will mostly be on the eastern side of the Anne River, a 45 minute walk from the road. Volunteers can sign up for the work at this web site. 1300 914 007 www.snowys.com.au 72 | BWA October 2016
Bring Back Mt Jack Justin Jenvey
It might be a mountainous task quite literally but Alpine Shire Citizen of the Year Ian Stapleton won’t die wondering. Mr Stapleton hopes to return one of the Bogong High Plains peaks to its original name. For more than 100 years Mt Cope has been known as that, named after Judge Thomas Cope, who was a magistrate at Beechworth in the 1860s.
Mt Cope summit track North-north-west BWA October 2016 | 73
To high country cattleman the mountain cattlemen weren’t at all impressed, they has always been called Mt Jack according couldn’t do much about it at the time but all to Mr Stapleton. “Back in 1851 Cobungra stuck grimly to the original name of Mt Jack stockmen, Jim Brown and Jack Wells, were to their last dying breath. the very first recorded Europeans to make their way up onto the remote Bogong High “Many of the older cattleman raised this Plains,” he said. subject during interviews for my books, strongly suggesting that I should try righting “As they went they named many of the major this wrong if I ever got the chance.” peaks including Feathertop, Fainter and the Razorback Ridge, all pivotal features Mr Stapleton said the renaming process is of our maps to this day. “They also named a complicated one involving approval from Rocky Valley and Pretty Valley, and finished Parks Victoria, the Alpine and East Gippsland up by naming a pair of adjacent peaks after Shires (as Mt Jack is on the boundary themselves, Mt Jim and Mt Jack.” of both), the Geographical Place Names Advisory Committee, Aboriginal Affairs Mr Stapleton said both Mt Jim and Mt Jack Victoria and numerous other interest groups. were in daily use for the next 50 years until Mt Jack was hijacked in the early 1900s “I’ll begin by presenting a petition to the following the death of Judge Cope about Alpine Shire in early September, asking for a decade earlier. It also eventually led to their support, and then running with it from Cope Hunt being named in his honour and there,” Mr Stapleton said. “The aim is to get when the Kiewa Hydro Scheme was built in as many signatures as possible, before the the 1940s Cope Creek, Cope Saddle, Cope end of August as well as letters of support Saddle Hut, and Cope Aqueduct being from individuals or interest groups.” derived. Petitions can be found at the Bright Library, “He passed away in Melbourne in 1891, and Harrietville Post Office, Tawonga South the fine fellow that he apparently was, he Store and Old Tawonga Store as well as the almost certainly never went anywhere near Omeo Post Office and Dargo Store. Letters the Bogong High Plains,” he said. of support can be emailed to o.i.stapleton@ iinet.net.au or posted to the Harrietville Post “From there the new name for Mt Jack Office. just started appearing on more and more Article courtesy of Justin Jenvey, Alpine government maps. “The old High Plains Observer, published 9 September 2016.
Mt Cope and Cope Hut signs North-north-west 74 | BWA October 2016
Eating in Style for Celebrations Sonya Muhlsimmer
Not only is it spring when the trees are starting to bud, the weather is getting warmer, and the days are getting longer. Also, it's celebration time - BWA is celebrating three years of a brilliant magazine. Well done and congratulations to the team. A lot of hard work and effort has gone into this and it is time to celebrate. I took off into the bush to have my own celebration for BWA and this is what I came up with. Here are two stylish dishes that can be shared with friends when celebrating either an anniversary or birthday. Luxurious eating in the bush, you can have your cake and eat it too.
Horseshoe Falls in Hazelbrook BWA October 2016 | 75
Flat Bread
Antipasto is traditionally the first course Method in camp of a formal Italian meal and is a great dish In a bowl add the contents of the bag (bread to share with friends. Antipasto dishes are mix). Slowly stir ¼ cup of water into the generally reserved for special occasions, flour, bringing it together to make a dough. and seen as a start to a coming feast, or Halve the mix and in your hand roll the half celebration. The choices are endless. But amount of dough into a ball. Using your for bushwalking and carrying things in fingers push out onto a disc. Place the piece your rucksack, well perhaps you can be of grease proof paper in the bottom of the somewhat limited. pan and then spread the dough mix over the paper. Place a pan over a low heat, add the Here are a few simple staple ingredients flat bread and cook for about 2 minutes on for bushwalkers that can make a luxurious, one side. Flip and cook again for about 2 colourful and delicious dining experience, minutes. Serves three people. wherever you may be. Salami, cheese and beef jerky can be spruced up a bit with a few other ingredients. Prosciutto is a cured meat and can be taken with ease, just buy a few slices from the deli. Savour brand, Spicy broad beans are available in any good supermarket; a tasty addition to any platter. Sun dried tomatoes can come dried or in oil. If you make sure you wrap them well the tomato in oil is delicious and really compliments the other ingredients in this dish. Sun dried olives are available online, yum ... oh and don’t forget fresh flat bread, cut up to share with friends. Bag 1 (bread mix) At home preparation Self raising flour ½ cup 71 grams Place all ingredients into the allocated bag. Milk powder 2 Tbsp 20 grams Cut out a piece of grease proof paper to fit the pan. Print out Method at camp label and Baking powder 1 tsp 4 grams place with the bag. Salt few pinches Water ¼ cup for preparation 76 | BWA October 2016
Chocolate Cake
Yes, as I said you can have your cake and in the bottom of the pan and then spread the eat it too. This chocolate cake can be a cake mix over the paper. Set the stove to a bit tricky to cook but it is so worth it. Try low heat and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes it out at home to get it right; the bottom until bubbles appear in the batter all over of the cake can burn easily, so be careful. the top and the cake becomes brown on the Use the greaseproof paper, and use your bottom. Take off the heat, cover the top of spondonicles on the side of the pan to move the cake with grease proof paper and taking the pan around the flame, to help even your hand (or chopping board) on top and flip the cooking of the base. I made this cake over, place the cake back in the pan. Put the half way through my cross country skiing pan back on the stove and cook for another trip recently. My friends and I were trying 2 to 3 minutes until the cake is set all the way to reach the summit of Mt Jagungal, and through. Serves three people. this was going to be our celebratory cake at night. But the rivers were raging and the snow was (too) plentiful, we did not make the summit, so it became our commissary cake. The warm cake with gooey chocolate blobs inside and crunchy nutty pieces, it is a cake that stimulates all the senses, and soothes wounded egos. It made everything better. A perfect cake for any celebration (or not!). At home preparation Cut out a piece of grease proof paper to fit the pan. Use enough paper to overlap the sides of the pan so you can use the paper to Bag 1 (cake mix) pull the cake out easily. In a food processor Self raising flour ½ cup 77 grams pulse the chocolate and nuts together for about 20 seconds. Label the bag and place Caster sugar ¼ cup 54 grams all ingredients into the allocated bag. Copy or Dark chocolate bits ¼ cup 35 grams print out Method at camp and keep together Milk powder 10 grams with the bag. 1 Tbsp Egg powder 1 Tbsp 8 grams Method at camp In a bowl, place the contents of the bag Cocoa powder 2 tsp 4 grams (cake mix) and add ½ cup of water slowly to Walnuts ¼ cup 22 grams the ingredients, stirring constantly to make a paste. Place the piece of grease proof paper Water - ½ cup
To read more about the author or find more delicious recipes check xtremegourmet.com BWA October 2016 | 77
Magazines
Wild AG Outdoor 155 issue Sep-Oct issue
In this issue of Wild, Six great NSW there is some of the adventures show most spectacular you the best way to adventure imagery enjoy the outdoors in ever published mighty Switzerland. in their "Folio" They also offer tips department, and advice on how to courtesy of Andrew pack your car for your Peacock. Grant next outdoor epic, and Dixon also makes explore the iconic Red a return, tramping Centre on a fantastic in NZ’s South Island. Finally, get ready for road trip. Also inside you'll find expert gear tests, the outdoor pursuit that takes bushwalking and advice on how to complete your first-ever to the next level – trail running – with their charity road cycling event. special beginner’s guide, training notes, shoe reviews and more.
The Great Walks Outer Edge Oct-Nov issue 48 issue
The Great Ocean Outer Edge is a magazine Walk is one of of difference. With the issue's two fantastic adventure stories showcase walks from contributors around and writer Ian the world, from explorers Trevaskis loved and world record holders, the fact that to ordinary people who do not only was extraordinary things. he hiking along parts of Victoria's Edition 48 is now live Shipwreck Coast online. You can read he also had the chance to have a cool dip. about tackling Verbier and chat to some amazing athletes about their achievements. And this is the Our second showcase walk is Portuguese biggest Adventure School yet, with amazing tips Coastal Camino, one of Europe’s lesser- for a huge variety of activities. Read it, then get known pilgrim walks. out there and LIVE IT.
The Walksmart section showcase the best gear for car camping and beyond, and features a step-by-step guide on how to use a compass.
Our regular columnists share a tip or three on life in the outdoors and we're giving away a trip to experience the Scenic Rim Trail in south-east Queensland with Spicers Canopy Retreat. Bushwalking Conservation Winter Walking Best of NSW Best of VIC
Australian Alps Walking Track Fig Tree Point Best walks of NSW Best walks of Victoria High Horses: Kosciuszko NP Gear freak - Footwear Wolgan Gorge adventure Wilsons Prom Another Shot at the GNW 10 Tips for Backcountry S Shoalhaven Coast walk Fortress Mapping feral animals Snowshoeing and winter Warbonnet Hammock review Aarn Pack review
Best of TAS Best of SA Best of WA Best of NT Best of QLD Best walks of Tasmania Best walks of SA WA - a hike for everyone Best walks of NT Best walks in Queensland Overland Track Friends of Heysen Trail Western Walking Club Larapinta track Walking with insects Rescue at Cradle Bungy Pump poles Forests and logging Rescue: inside and out Foot blister treatment
Best of ACT Keep Your Cool Best of Australia Winter Wanderings Winter Edition ACT’s best walks Total fire ban day Best walks in Australia Dehydrating food Two weeks in Fiordland Gardens of Stone Sports drink & electrolytes Bushwalking blog Colong wilderness walk Hypothermia in the field
Walking in Summer
Volume No 2, December 2013 Autumn Edition Lifetime of Walking Walking in Summer First Edition Aboriginal rock art What is BWRS? Heat illness in the field What is BWA Bushwalking Tracks Are you in a Club? Is it safe to walk? Larapinta Trail NT