CANBERRA
BUSHWALKING CLUB NEWSLETTER it
Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc. GPO Box 160 Canberra ACT 2601 Volume 54 Number 8 www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org September 2018
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING 7.30pm Wednesday 19 September 2018 Weston Uniting Church 16 Parkinson Street, Weston Come on down to the 2018 AGM
It’s AGM time once again. Come along to lend your support to your Club, hear an overview of how we have fared this year, and welcome the Committee for 2018-19. You might even consider nominating for a position. A list of the Committee positions is located here. Come and enjoy an evening of insights into your Club’s operations.
Contents
AGM Agenda Conservation Update The First Hike Project AGM Motions Committee roles Stockyard Spur in snow AGM Balance Sheet Committee positions vacant Lyrebird AGM Income and Expenditure Membership CBC Committee AGM Budgeted Receipts/Payments Editor’s farewell Newsletter Contributions Auditor’s Report Gourock National Park Activity Program President’s Report Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda Bulletin Board
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 1 CBC Annual General Meeting 20172018
AGENDA
1. Welcome Appointment of auditor 2. President’s Report 6. Handover to Returning Officer 3. Walk Secretary’s Report including the Greg 7. Supper Buckley Award and gifts of appreciation to 8. Elections for Committee walk leaders and others 9. Other business 4. Treasurer’s Report and Motions * Financial statements * Membership fees * Transport rate
5.
Notice of Motions for September 2018 CBC AGM
The following motions were agreed on by the Committee for presentation at the 2018 AGM Financial Statements 2017–2018 That the Club adopt the Financial Statements for 2017–2018 as published in it, September 2018. Schedule of Budgeted Receipts and Payments 2018–2019 That the Club adopt the Budgeted Receipts and Payments 2018–2019 as published in it, September 2018. Transport rate That the transport rate be set at 40c per kilometre, from the date of the 2018 Annual General Meeting, such rate being the existing transport rate adjusted by the CPI for the year ending June 2018 as shown on the Reserve Bank of Australia website (Source: ABS Cat No 6401.0). Members’ subscription rate 2018–2019 That the subscription rate for the 2018–2019 year remain at $33 per member.
Donation to Save Kosci Inc. That CBC donate $1200 to Save Kosci Inc. to help fund the protest walk from Sydney to Mt Kosciuszko. Honorary auditor That David Hatherly be appointed Honorary Auditor for the 2018-19 financial year in line with Clause 6.6 of the CBC Constitution.
Michael de Raadt President
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 2 Balance Sheet as at 30th June 2018
30/06/2018 30/06/2017 Assets Current Assets Cheque Account $7,003 $4,992 Prepayments & Debtors $524 $1,541 Total Current Assets $7,527 $6,532 Non-current assets Cash Reserve Account $13,019 $12,951 Term Deposit $7,960 $7,663 Books $1,263 $1,425 Cupboard for Hall $137 $0 Accum depn Cupboard ($27) $0 Total Cupboard for Hall $110 $0 PA System $1,087 $1,087 Accum depn PA System ($593) ($429) Total PA System $494 $658 Global Positioning Systems Global Positioning Systems (2) $270 $270 Accum depn 2 * GPSs ($248) ($240) eTrex 20 GPS * 2 $369 $369 Accum depn 2* eTrex ($269) ($236) Total Global Positioning Systems $122 $163 Personal locator beacons (2) $0 $1,211 Accum depn 2 * PLBs $0 ($1,083) Total Personal Locator Beacons $0 $128 KTI Safety Alert PLB $270 $0 Accum depn KTI Safety Alert ($43) $0 Total KTI Safety Alert $227 $0 Projector $2,278 $2,278 Accum depn Projector ($2,222) ($2,204) Total Projector $56 $74 Snow equipment $3,203 $3,203 Accum depn Snow Equipment ($1,459) ($877) Total Snow Equipment $1,744 $2,326 Laptop $815 $815 Accum depn Laptop ($649) ($594) Total Laptop $166 $221 Voice Recorder $79 $79 Accum depn Voice Recorder ($46) ($35) Total Voice Recorder $33 $44 Frog Flag $300 $300 Accum depn Frog Flag ($183) ($144) Total Frog Flag $118 $157 Software Software (Adobe) $2,656 $2,656 Accum depn Software ($1,827) ($1,551) Management Software $9,888 $7,416 Accum depn Man't Software ($1,240) $0 Total Software $9,477 $8,521 Frog logo trademark $300 $300 Amortisation Frog trademark ($57) ($27) Total Frog logo $243 $273 Total Assets $42,558 $41,136 Liabilities $0 $0 Net Assets $42,558 $41,136 Equity General Reserve $41,136 $39,994 Current Earnings $1,422 $1,142 Total Equity $42,558 $41,136
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 3 Income and Expenditure 1 July 2017 to 30 June 2018
2017-2018 2016-2017 Income Members subscriptions $12,893 $11,432 Interest income $246 $281 Other Income $50 $0 Book sales $0 $97 Equipment hire $55 $115 Late receipts for 2015-16 $10 Total Income $13,244 $11,935 Expenses Merchant Fees $398 $397 PayPal Fees $322 $264 Conservation $176 $120 Depreciation & Amortisation $2,654 $1,222 Donations $1,000 $0 General Meetings $1,422 $1,920 Recognition of Leaders $322 $0 It printing and postage $0 $876 Post box rental $197 $193 Postage & Stationery $190 $134 BNSW Affiliation Fee $2,617 $2,562 BNSW Public Liability Insurance $1,387 $1,438 Registrar-General fees $0 $41 Repair and maintenance $0 $42 Training and Safety $0 $573 Training for New Website $0 $440 Publicity $337 $0 Other expense (G Buckley plaque) $34 $0 Web hosting and enhancements $604 $306 Book gifts to new members $162 $198 Hobart Walking Club Welcome $0 $67 Total Expenses $11,822 $10,793
Excess $1,422 $1,142
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 4 Budgeted Receipts and Payments 2018-2019
Bank at 1 July 2018 Cheque account $7,003 Cash reserve account 13,019 Term Deposit 7,960 Total $27,982
Budget Actual 2017-2018 Income Members subscriptions $13,200 $12,893 Interest income 250 246 Other income 100 105 Total Income $13,550 $13,244
Expenses Bank Fees (700) (719) Conservation (220) (176) Donations (1,000) General Meetings (2,200) (1,422) Post box rental (200) (197) Postage & Stationery (250) (190) Bushwalking NSW Affiliation Fee (2,500) (2,617) Public Liability Insurance (1,500) (1,387) Registrar-General fees (50) 0 Training and Safety (500) 0 Publicity (500) (337) Other expense (Greg Buckley plaque) (50) (34) Recognition of leaders (320) (322) Web hosting and enhancements (750) (604) Repair and maintenance (100) 0 Total Expenses (9,840)
Capital outlays Prepayments and Debtors 524 4 new E-Trex (800) Projector replacement (2,500) Canyoning equipment (1,200) Total Capital outlays (3,976)
Bank at 30 June 2019 $27,716
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 5 Independent Auditor’s Report
To the Members of the Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc.
I have audited the accompanying financial report of the Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc, which comprises the balance sheet as at 30 June 2018 showing assets of $42,558, and the income statement showing total income for the year of $13,244 and a net profit of $1,422.
The Responsibility of the Treasurer and Committee for the Financial Report The Treasurer and Committee are responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial reports. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining internal controls in accordance with the Club’s rules to enable the preparation and fair presentation of a financial report that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Auditor's Responsibility My responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial report based on my audit, which I have conducted in order to gain a reasonable assurance as to whether the financial report is free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial report. The procedures selected depend on my judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial report, whether due to fraud or error. I believe that the audit evidence I have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for my audit opinion.
Independence In conducting my audit, I have complied with the independence requirements of the Club’s rules which require that the auditor not be a member of the Committee.
Auditor's Opinion In my opinion, the financial report gives a true and fair view of the financial position of the Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc. as of 30 June 2018, and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended.
David Hatherly 10th August 2018
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 6 President’s Message
As the winter months roll by and the weather begins to warm, activities in the Club continue strongly during the week and over weekends. Navigation training is on the agenda again, as are family activities. Meanwhile, Club members continue to act to rectify the scandalous decision to protect feral horses in the KNP. If you are interested in this matter, I recommend viewing the 7:30 Report expose video shared at the following URL: http://bit.ly/feralhorses As you know, CBC is one of the supporting organisations for the Sydney to Kosciuszko protest walk seeking stronger action on feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park. The 'Register' form on the Save Kosci web site is now working, if you would like to consider registering as a walker or non-walking helper, and/or making a donation towards this worthy cause. On Wednesday 19 September from 7:30pm we will be holding our Annual General Meeting. I hope you will be able to join us at the Weston Creek Uniting Church, 16 Parkinson Street, Weston. At the meeting, all positions will become vacant for re-election and a number of Committee members have indicated they will not be nominating themselves for re-election after significant, valuable contributions to the Club.
I would like to thank the following people for their efforts. Roger Edwards, Membership Secretary for 23 years Meredith Hatherly, Editor for 2 years Julie Anne Clegg, Treasurer for 5 years David Dedenczuk, Training & Safety Officer for 3 years
If you see these members at a meeting or out on a walk, be sure to join me in thanking them for their efforts. Of course, we will need to fill these important roles within the Club. Please consider your potential to take on one of these roles and speak with the outgoing members or myself to discern the scope of the roles.
Michael de Raadt
President
Conservation Update Aboriginal Art and Sites at Risk of Destruction Hundreds of Indigenous sacred sites are at risk if the Warragamba Dam wall is raised. The $700 million proposal to raise the dam wall by 14 metres was announced in June 2016 for flood mitigation in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley. The Gundungurra Aboriginal Heritage Association has recently lodged an Aboriginal Place proposal with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage. More than 80 new sites in the Burragorang area have been identified in addition to more than 800 sites in the southern Blue Mountains. Rock shelters containing Indigenous art and waterholes where ceremonies and camps were once held could be destroyed by one flooding episode. An Aboriginal heritage consultant with links to the Gundungurra People and with specialised knowledge of Aboriginal heritage in the Blue Mountains has recently been engaged. Click here for further information
Cynthia Breheny Conservation Officer
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 7 ROLES OF CLUB COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Here is an outline of the positions up for election at the September AGM. If you would like more information about one of these positions, please contact the current office holder or the President. President Oversees all Club activities, chairs the Committee and General Meetings and is responsible for ensuring that important issues are considered by the Committee or are otherwise dealt with. Represents the Club in many of its dealings with outside bodies especially Bushwalking NSW Inc. Assists other officers where needed. Deals with enquiries, suggestions and complaints. Contributes regularly to it. Member of the training and safety sub-group. General Secretary Takes minutes of Committee Meetings and records the formal business of General Meetings, including the AGM. Maintains official records of correspondence. Prepares correspondence for signature by the President, if requested, and works closely with the President on matters of general importance to the Club. Prepares annual returns and updates to Committee member information for the Office of Regulatory Services. Treasurer Manages the Club’s finances. Maintains day to day accounts and financial records; prepares the annual Financial Statements and draft budget; advises the Committee and Club members on financial matters including membership rates and transport rates; acts as administrator of the bank accounts, merchant facility and PayPal in regard to changes in authorisations and access of other officers to those facilities; manages investments and cash transfers between the credit facilities and bank accounts; pays all accounts; issues invoices and deposits cash receipts as needed. Walks Secretary Responsible for managing the Activity Program. Encourages members to lead Club activities, checks that leaders have the skills needed to undertake the walks they propose and seeks out new leaders. Manages the Register of Leaders. Contributes regularly to it. Member of the training and safety sub-group. Membership Secretary Maintains membership records using an on-line software package, answers membership inquiries, handles receipts, processes membership applications and renewals. Banks cheques for membership fees. Informs the Treasurer of any payments banked. Member of the Training and Safety sub-group. Editor Responsible for the preparation of the monthly newsletter. Seeks, encourages and receives written contributions and photos and follows up receipt of regular reports. Edits content as necessary. Designs and prepares the layout for publication. Downloads the Activity Program from the website to reproduce in the monthly newsletter. Sends the completed newsletter to the Publisher for publication Training and Safety Officer Develops and implements a training and safety program consistent with the Club’s objectives and responsibilities. Serves as the Club’s primary check-in officer and monitors the departures and returns of Club trips. Manages the updating of the Club’s notes for leaders and participants, where necessary. Contributes regularly to it. Manages the activities of the training and safety sub-group.
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 8 ROLES OF CLUB COMMITTEE MEMBERS Social Secretary Manages the social program of the Club including the Christmas party, the January BBQ, any celebrations relevant to the Club and anything else that enriches the community spirit of the Club. Identifies and introduces guest speakers for general meetings. Ensures blurb for each presentation is obtained from the speaker and is sent promptly to the newsletter editor, website manager and Facebook manager. Asks a Club member to write a review of the presentation for it. Ensures that a bottle of wine is presented to speakers. Responsible for setting up the hall, and for supper at general meetings. Is the contact for the managers of the meeting venue and is responsible for the venue keys and rebooking the venue for the following year. Has custody of the Club laptop, ensures antivirus software is up to date, and brings laptop to general and committee meetings. Conservation Officer Coordinates the Club’s conservation activities. Advises the Club on conservation issues, campaigns and projects. May represent the Club at other conservation meetings such as those of the ACT Conservation Council. Prepares submissions on important conservation matters. Assistant Walks Secretary Responsible for obtaining pre-trip documentation from leaders before walks. Collects the risks and responsibility forms to maintain statistics on trips, assists in identifying potential new leaders. Member of the training and safety sub-group.
Publisher The Publisher receives the CBC Newsletter (PDF) from the Editor and then emails the digital newsletter (or a link) to Club members and to the CBC Institutional Members. These include Bushwalking NSW Inc., Brindabella Bushwalking Club (President and Walks Secretary), National Parks Association ACT and the Hobart Walking Club. The Newsletter is also uploaded to the National Library of Australia (via TROVE each month) and emailed to the ACT Heritage Library annually. Web Manager Responsible for the maintenance and development of the CBC system, databases and web site. Check-in officer Monitors check ins from leaders after walks. Sometimes has to contact forgetful leaders to check that the party has returned. First point of contact for leaders in case of emergency. Obtains completed Acknowledgement of Risks and Obligations Forms from leaders and keeps them for the record. Responsible for obtaining incident reports and for making recommendations to the committee based on these. Note: This is not a separate Committee position, but a function that can be undertaken by any Committee member.
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 9 CBC Committee Positions Vacant
Four current Committee members will be standing down at the upcoming AGM. At this time of writing, we have no candidates, or anyone who has expressed an interest in any of these four positions. A couple of the retiring office holders, namely myself as the Editor, and David, the Training and Safety Officer, have put together some thoughts on what our positions involve in addition to the formal descriptions listed above. This might help if any of you out there are in half a mind to nominate or you have at least been thinking about it. (ed)
Editor
This job involves preparing a newsletter every month, except for January each year. During each month I receive articles and photos from Committee members and from Club members. To ensure an ongoing supply of material I sometimes approach Club members who I think might be willing to write up their trips for the newsletter, or I follow up any events or issues which I consider would be of interest. I edit these where necessary, and fit them into the newsletter. The software I use is Microsoft Word, but any specialist publishing software could be used instead. When the newsletter is finished to my satisfaction and ready to go, I download the Activity Program from the website just before publication and include it in the final version. It is then emailed to the Publisher who sends it out to members and other organisations. This whole process works on deadlines – the newsletter needs to be out to Club members a week before the monthly general meeting. All contributions need to have arrived by the deadline each month. I was never very technologically adept, so while I was learning how to manage the software and put the newsletter together without losing the formatting or accidentally deleting everything, I had some fraught moments, but with practice and time to figure it all out the process has become much easier. Someone with a bit of technical knowledge may not have any trouble, and can instead focus entirely on producing a creative sensation! The Committee is always there as a backup and a support – there are Committee members with good technical skills who can help. The Committee is great to work with, and they are good proof readers too! In consultation with the Committee, a new Editor might decide to create a newsletter with an entirely new look, and perhaps even a different timeline and a different way of doing things – nothing is absolutely set in stone. The newsletter is an evolving product, especially now that the new online system is being used more comfortably by members. It can be pure creative enjoyment for the person who likes editing. I am happy to show you what I do and how I do it, or advise or help in any other way if you need support to get started. Email me at [email protected] or telephone me on 0413 396 258 if you would like to ask more about it.
Meredith Hatherly Editor (outgoing)
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 10
Training and Safety Officer
Opportunity knocks!
After a very happy period as CBC Training and Safety Officer, for personal reasons I am stepping down from the role at the 2018 AGM. There will therefore be a vacancy in this most interesting of roles.
The role of Training and Safety Officer has many attractions and benefits. Firstly, with its training responsibilities, I have found that the role has helped me to develop my own bushwalking skills. I have had cause to undertake research into issues as diverse as ants, ticks, fabrics and equipment. It is then a pleasure to hand on some of this information in the form of trifles, or other communication to one's walking peers. I find that walkers, similarly, share their knowledge and learnings with me, as Safety and Training Officer. I have found that I have learnt much about bushcraft from interacting with other CBC walkers at every stage in their walking career. There is a lively calendar of training events on vital bush skills such as navigation, which are led by CBC luminaries.
For those walkers who have learnings to share, the training aspect of the role is very rewarding. I periodically receive correspondence from very learned and skilled walkers, and imagine that such folks would be able to provide very useful information indeed to their fellow walkers.
The second aspect of the role – the safety aspect – is arguably even more important than the training aspect. The Training and Safety Officer serves as the primary check-in officer for walkers returning from the bush. Previously this role entailed heightened vigilance on the part of the check-in officer, as he or she would ensure that those parties that had gone out into the bush, also returned. With the advent of the new system however, this responsibility has now become very easy to acquit. Leaders check out and in automatically, and the check-in officer is advised of returns by the system.
Under the new system, should a leader neglect to check in, he or she is reminded to do so by the system. With the highly skilled leaders and walkers in the CBC, and the good organisation of its walks, I have never been called on to assist a benighted party. Very occasionally there is a minor injury or illness on a walk, which is brought to the attention of the safety officer, but little further input is required.
Finally, a CBC walker should aspire to the training and safety role, because it is great fun and it brings a personal dividend. The Committee are a great bunch of folks, and one can learn from them all manner of skills that can be deployed in other personal or professional settings. I like to cite my role as training and safety officer on my CV, and many an APS selection panel has shortlisted me for interview on the basis of this claim alone! At interview, should I then choose to talk about the Percies, the job is surely mine!
The role of CBC Training and Safety Officer is a highly rewarding one, which is not in any way onerous. Should you be interested in discussing further, please contact me on 0417 222 154 ([email protected]) so that I can provide further insights into the role.
David Dedenczuk Training and Safety Officer (outgoing)
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 11 New members and editor
Welcome new members
The Club would like to welcome the following new members who joined the Club during August and September 2018: Janice Ho, Kerrie Finlayson, Trevor Higgs, Membership fees Braham Hart, Sarah Sutcliffe. 2018/2019 $33 per person Roger Edwards Membership Secretary
Goodbye and thanks for all the support
This month in the newsletter our trip reports range from hot wet equatorial Africa to snow clad Namadgi, and to a little known National Park just south of our city. Thank you to this month’s contributors – Mark Batey, Robyn Hall and Michael Banyard, and to the artist in our ranks – Cynthia Breheny, for her fine picture of a lyrebird. It will have been almost two years since I first volunteered to be the new editor of it. I am stepping down at the AGM in September to make way for someone new. A new editor is sure to create a new look to keep you reading ever onwards. For me, it has been two years of creative satisfaction and great pleasure, certainly with some technology induced stress at times, but on the whole a satisfaction that comes mainly from the wonderful supporters who have contributed items to keep it interesting and relevant. I thank all my contributors for great pieces of writing, and hope that you will continue to support the new editor in the same way. Perhaps you might even consider nominating yourself at the AGM. I am happy to provide support and advice to a new editor as required. Goodbye, many thanks and best wishes
Meredith Hatherly Editor (outgoing)
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 12 A Walk in Gourock National Park
17th August 2018 Gourock National Park lies 100km to the south of Canberra with access via the Captains Flat and Jerangle Roads. Because of the distance it is not much visited by bushwalkers, but within its borders lies the source of the Queanbeyan River. The Jerangle Road is currently being sealed south of Captains Flat towards the Anembo Road junction. The road realignment and sealing is to a high standard, presumably mostly for logging vehicles. It is regrettable that this will encourage higher speeds on the road, and therefore a potential hazard for wildlife. After a 7:30am departure from Canberra we arrived at the park boundary about 9:30am with some delays caused by road works. We chose the Slap Up Road entry off the Jerangle Road after checking with NPWS Braidwood that the access At the park boundary ready to start Photo: Michael Banyard through private land was a gazetted road.
This starting point would ensure that we started low and finished low thus making it an easy day’s walk. An alternative approach is via the Anembo Road turn off then Slap Up Forest Road and Slap Up Forest Fire Trail to Bald Mountain (1469m). This alternative route would make for a high start and a high finish for the day.
A quick cup of tea and off. We followed the Queanbeyan River south along pleasant and open grassland and extensive swampy lowland where the river spreads out over Cooper Swamp. The whole park area is well populated with wombats judging by burrow activity and scats. We sighted one fellow heading home after a big night out. Once off the swampy country we followed the river up towards the slopes of Bald Mountain on the low ridge to the north of the river - pleasant enough walking, with increasingly abundant moderate density of fallen timber and young wattle just coming into flower. As we headed higher the density of timber and wattle increased, slowing progress, although you would Grassland along the Queanbeyan River never call it heavy going, just slow walking. Photo: Meredith Hatherly
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 13 A Walk in Gourock National Park As we climber higher it became increasingly unlikely that we would complete our loop to the summit of Bald Mountain and be home before dark. We decided to head across the saddle instead to Slap Up Creek, our route back. This also meant that we did not quite reach the actual source of the Queanbeyan River, which was about 2km further along. We agreed to reserve this for a future trip. Our route across the ridge passed through a wonderful area of perhaps 100 hectares of mature, unburnt and majestic forest. We chose a lovely lunch spot among stands of stringybark and other eucalypts with an 80% canopy and reasonably clear understory, deprived of light, mature, and probably not burnt for 50-100 years or more. Wildlife carers talk of small numbers of koalas in the Jerangle area and this would surely have been a great spot for them, but we had no sightings, only eye strain. Our route back to the car followed Slap Up Creek downstream on the north eastern side of a private lease. After the first two or so kilometres of low density scrub the creek opened up to be a very pleasant grassland, firm under foot. A friendly stock horse on the adjacent property came to investigate, and there were cattle nearby. Wombat activity was aplenty. We arrived back at the car about 3:30pm, then to Canberra for peak hour without any kangaroo strikes on the way home, many having been killed by earlier travellers. The total distance was 13km and only a change of elevation of 200m so a very comfortable day. To finish off the blessing of a good walk, we had brilliant blue sky all day to complement the happy demeanour of the party - David, Meredith, John and Mike.
Michael Banyard
Majestic old growth unburnt forest in Gourock NP Photo: Michael Banyard
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 14 A Trek in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda
The following is part 2 of the story of Mark Batey’s trip to Uganda in 2017. Part 1 was published in the July 2018 it. (ed) I chose the Rwenzori Trekking Services to guide me on a 6 day trek into the Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda. This company had the best reputation, and not only because it was owned by an Australian from Brisbane. The highest peak in the National Park is Margherita Peak at 5109m which takes 8 days to walk to, and involves scaling a 60-degree glacier wall with crampons. The trek I was to take was only to Weismanns Peak at 4800m. Day 1: We set off from the small village of Kilembe at 1460m walking through small farming communities before entering the National Park. The walk was steep but contained steps and the track was firm. The only difficult part was crossing a cascade with a large volume of water going through it. This required some cautious rock jumping. Falling in would mean a potential tumble down the cascades for about 20m. Our first camp was the Sina Camp at 2590m. It was very comfortable, with nice views down a valley below. It was also my introduction to the excessive meals provided by the Rwenzori Trekking Services. Always three courses, and always more than I could eat. Day 2 was to Mutinda Camp at 3810m. This took us out of the heather zone, into the Afro-montane zone which contains large lobelias and groundsels. It was also an introduction to the mud, which would become a regular feature for the next few days. Some areas had boardwalks across the more marshy areas. As we had arrived in the early afternoon, I decided to take the side trip up to Mutinda Lookout. It looked like it was going to be difficult from the bottom and it proved to be that, plus a little scary, particularly coming down. The climb was up and down a slope of around 70-80-degrees, with lots of mud and precarious ladders constructed from branches. At the top we only had a glimpse of the valley below, with minimal views west of the mountain peaks because of the cloud. Day 3 was to Bugata Camp at 4060m. This section took us through the area which had been burnt out in 2012 during a drought. Droughts can occur once every 60 years, and the impact is long lasting because of the slow growing plants. But like the 2013 Canberra fires, drought does open up the landscape to give you a full view. Bugata Camp sat up on a large rocky outcrop looking down on Lake Bugata. My guide pointed out to me that the area below the camp was actually where the glacier was back in the 1930s. Now the glaciers are only visible on the mountain peaks about 20km away. This definitely put a physical perspective on the impact of climate change.
Panorama with Margherita Peak in the far right. Mountains to the left are in the Republic of Congo. Note the remaining remnant of the glaciers on the peak. Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 15 A Trek in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda Day 4. We set off to Weismanns Peak (4619m) then on to Kagura Camp (3518m). We started early because it was going to be long day. We descended from Bugata Camp to skirt just below the cliff face near the lake. This was muddy but relatively easy going. We reached a saddle in the cliff line, involving a 70 degree climb up a gully filled with medium to large sized boulders for about 1km. It was easy going for the rest of the way until we got to Weismanns Peak around 11:30am. The climb up to the peak was easy enough except for some short bouts of exposure, but nothing too serious. The view to the west was of the major peaks, Margherita (5109m), Baker (4794m) and Mt Stanley. Behind us we looked down into the valley which had several lakes. To the north was Mount Luigi di Savoia (4626m). After lunch and final photos, we set off down to Kagura Camp. We travelled along granite slabs for almost 2km. While it was steep, it was easily done without hand holds, but if it had been raining or even worse, icy, it would have been very difficult. Apparently in these situations they use ropes to get people down. I was shown an alternate track which could take us back down the way we came up. In hindsight this is the route I would take next time. When we finished the granite slabs we dropped into a valley which contained a forest of giant groundsels. It was a very alien landscape compared to your normal tree forest. After this, things got very difficult as we walked down a narrow, muddy, 70 degree sloping track, which was actually a mixture of mosses, rocks and mud clinging to the cliff wall and a 15-20m drop into cascades below. It definitely made you concentrate on every foot-step, and to reflect on paying the $US10000 helicopter bill if you did not. On reflection, I cannot see how this track was going to maintain its contact with the cliff face, as it was Afro-montane zone with giant groundsels and dead lobelias. The obviously sliding down from the rock-face at the average height of these plants is about 3-4m. time. At the end of this 800m long track I was mentally exhausted. However, after a short break we hit another slightly less difficult descent. This involved a 500m track down a 75-80 degree stream. At least this time the footing was mostly more positive. Some of my favourite branch ladders were in place to get through the more difficult parts. From this point we were back in the heather zone, which also suffered badly in the fires, but it did make it easier to see animals such as dik-diks. We arrived at the camp around 3pm, when it also started to rain. All I could think about is what it would have been like going down the slabs and slopes in this rain. I can understand why this section can take 10-12 hours to complete. I was also told my group was only the second group to come down that track. Day 5: A short walk to Semutira Camp (3100m) starting around 9am was not too difficult, until we got to the last few hundred meters and had to negotiate a very steep, slippery but well-defined track to the camp. Compared to the previous day though, it was a doddle. The camp had the novelty of a bird called the Rwenzori Turaco, rare but apparently often seen around the camp.
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 16 A Trek in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda Day 6 – the final day back to Kilembe village. The track was well-maintained but it had some very slippery, muddy parts. On the descent of 1700m, there were only a few flat points to rest the knees. This was softened by the fantastic views across to the forest valleys and the occasional calls of chimpanzees in the distance. A real highlight for me was to see and handle my first three-horned chameleon. In my excitement I had forgotten Ugandans are afraid of these comical little creatures, so my video shows a terrified guide watching the chameleon climbing up his arm. Thankfully the track avoided the river crossing at the start of the trip. We arrived back at the village around 12:15pm, which meant it was a 4hr 15min walk without stops. Later I heard someone had to be evacuated from the area. I suspect it was one of the members from a group I was with on the first few days which went on to do the Margherita Peak trek. They had got into trouble when it started raining. All up it was a very challenging trek, rewarded with spectacular views, strange landscapes and sobering consequences of climate change Three-horned chameleon impacts.
Text and photos: Mark Batey
The First Hike Project – donations wanted
The First Hike Project aims to help refugee youth feel more at home in Australia and to deepen their connection to their new country by taking groups on overnight hiking and camping adventures. It is currently raising funds to provide for hiking groups being set up in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Canberra. Each new group will conduct their first group hike in spring 2018.
The First Hike Project is planning hikes, forging relationships with local refugee community groups and schools, talking to gear manufacturers and coordinating with local land management organizations.
To provide the best possible experience The First Hike Project wants to acquire all the essential camping and hiking gear needed by participants ie backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, torch, eating utensils, mozzie and fly protection etc for each participant to use and return to us afterwards.
The Canberra Bushwalking Club members can help by donating funds and/or gear and spreading the word about the project.
Please contact Neil McCulloch to find out about how you can assist: https://au.gofundme.com/firsthikeproject
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 17 A Walk in the Snow – Stockyard Spur
Three intrepid explorers – Robyn, Elena and Meredith, set out bright and early from Corin dam on the morning of Saturday 25 August. We were headed up Stockyard Spur in search of some snow, and, of course, with Robyn along, a couple of geocaches. The morning was overcast, but not too chilly, and the bush was spectacular, with lyrebirds serenading us along the way. After a steep slog up Stockyard Spur, we made a quick find on the first geocache of the day. This is also where we saw the first spots of snow. Knowing the hard part was behind us (how wrong we were!!) we set off along the track with renewed energy. A few hundred metres on, we veered off track in search of the second geocache of the day. This was a short but fun wander through increasingly deep snow, showing us a side of the Aussie bush that we hadn’t seen before. We found our cache, and back on track the snow got deeper. This was an amazing experience and a challenging workout which we compared to walking through sand uphill. We had all over-packed, expecting it to be chilly, but with the exertion no extensive packing list was Off track In search of a geocache necessary. We were all quite happy in our standard walking gear plus rain pants to keep the snowmelt from soaking our socks. Walking poles may have come in handy, as would snow shoes or cross-country skis, but to be able to jump in our vehicle, drive for an hour, and have this at our doorstep with no prior gear preparation was just magical and highly recommended. We had a fabulous time crunching through the drifts and watching the snow-coated scenery unfold in front of us. The Russian in our party handled the snow like the expert she was, and we let her plough the path ahead. We reached Pryors hut at about 11am, three hours after we started. There we stopped for a well-deserved coffee Franklin Road nearing Pryors Hut and snack break, with a view out to the snow-covered wilds beyond. Given the depth of the snow we had encountered so far, which was likely to get deeper as we ascended, as well as the poor visibility, and since we had already found plenty of snow, we opted not to continue on to Mt Gingera today. Instead, we took a bit of extra time for some snow play, making snow angels and a pair of snow people to guard the hut! We also explored the remains of the old arboretum up here, which looked like a true (albeit small) European winter scene. Admittedly, the wombat footprints were a bit incongruent. Robyn and friend
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 18 A Walk in the Snow – Stockyard Spur From there, we headed back the way we came, watching the snow decrease as we descended. The sun even peeped out once or twice very briefly. Overall, this was a truly magical excursion. We completed the 16.2km in just under 6 hours (including breaks and two geocaches), making this a great day walk and still getting us back to town for afternoon tea. Don’t let the thought of the snow or the temperature put you off. You will be toasty warm while walking and the snow is worth experiencing. Just make sure you wear waterproof shoes or carry spare Pryors Hut in the snow pairs of dry socks! Robyn Hall Photos: Robyn Hall and Meredith Hatherly
Especially during winter the mountains are filled with the song of lyrebirds
Lino-cut print and gouache by Cynthia Breheny
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 19 CBC Committee 2017-18
Editor: Meredith Hatherly President: Michael de Raadt [email protected] [email protected]
0410 233 090 Assistant Walks Secretary: Keith Thomas Treasurer: Julie Anne Clegg [email protected] [email protected] +64 27 535 6176 0402 118 359 Social Secretary: Terrylea Reynolds Walks Secretary: Linda Groom [email protected] [email protected] 0408 715 218 6281 4917 Publisher: David Williams General Secretary: Jenny Stewart [email protected] [email protected] —————————————————————
Membership Secretary: Roger Edwards All members of the Committee can be contacted [email protected] in one email to 6288 7863 [email protected] Training and Safety Officer: David Dedenczuk [email protected] Check in: [email protected] 0417 222 154 Web site: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org Conservation Officer: Cynthia Breheny [email protected]
Web Manager: Andrew Meers [email protected]
Contributions to the it
The it depends on your contributions - anything which you think may interest CBC members. If in doubt, email me and we can discuss.
There is no requirement that a trip report should be about the hardest walks - no matter what the grading of the walk the experience as reported by participants is always of interest.
If possible, try to limit your articles to a maximum of two to three pages of text or about 1000 -1500 words.
If you send a photo which is not yours, make sure you have permission to use it. Include the name of the photographer.
The closing date for each issue of it is the fourth Wednesday of every month. Send contributions to [email protected]
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 20 ACTIVITY PROGRAM
Information for Participants
Distance and difficulty Transport Costs are 39¢/km/car, divided equally among all participants. This Distance: amount may be varied at the discretion of the leader, depending on (S) Short – under 12 km/day the condition of the roads and other factors. The figures given are (M) Medium – 12–20 km/day for the car as a whole and then, at the discretion of the leader, an (L) Long – over 20 km/day estimate or range per person. Park admission and camping fees are Note: In calculating distance, 1 km is added for every 100 metres additional costs which leaders should list separately. climbed. Duty of care Terrain: Every person taking part in a CBC activity acknowledges that he/she (E) Easy – fire trail, tracks, beaches etc. does so voluntarily and that he/she may be exposed to risks that (M) Medium – bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub could lead to injury, illness or death, or to loss of, or damage to (R) Rough – much scrub, steep climbs, rock scrambles property. Each person acknowledges risk when they book on line (W) Wet – compulsory swims, many river crossings for walks, and sign the Club’s ‘Acknowledgement of Risks’ form at (X) Exploratory the start of a walk. Visitors are welcome to join trips. However
walkers are strongly encouraged to join the Club after a maximum of three trips. Booking For further information see: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org Please book online using the 'Request a booking' button on the page for each walk. Check-in after walks Many walks have a booking deadline, and all leaders appreciate Before a trip, leaders should use the 'Submit Trip List' function receiving bookings several days ahead of the walk, rather than just a within 'Manage Bookings' to inform the Club's check-in officer of the day or two ahead. names of their party. After the walk, leaders should use the 'Check- If the type of walk is new for you, check with the leader about: In' function, also within 'Manage Bookings', by 10 am the day after * the need to carry water, tents/fly, maps, etc. their trip to report their safe return or any incidents, and also email * appropriate clothing, footwear a scanned copy of the Acknowledgment of Risks form to the Check- * any precautions you might need to take for severe weather in Officer, David Dedenczuk [email protected]
In the event of a late return, worried relatives should contact the Check-in Officer, 0417 222 154,or the Walks Secretary, 6281 4917 or Equipment hire 0474 507 259 in the first instance, not the Police or other bodies Take advantage of the excellent gear that the Club has available for . hire before lashing out on your own equipment. The Equipment Officer is Rob Horsfield, who can be contacted on 6231 4535(h). To borrow the PLB contact David Dedenczuk, Training and Safety Map scale is 1:25,000 unless otherwise stated Officer: [email protected].
The equipment available and current rates per weekend/week are Wednesday walks set out below. Hirers are responsible for collecting and returning Two walks one Medium/Easy and one Medium/Hard, are conducted the equipment. The hiring charge (but not the deposit) is waived for most Wednesdays. Walks are conducted in turn by leaders from the members who are ‘first time’ weekend walkers. Canberra Bushwalking Club (CBC), Brindabella Bushwalking Club (BBC – Peter [email protected] and Kathy A deposit of $20 is required and part or all of this will be refunded, [email protected]) and National Parks Association ACT (NPA depending on the condition of the items upon return and whether - Mike S, 0412 179 907). Destination and meeting place details are they are returned late. emailed a few days before each walk. (BBC and NPA leaders as listed in the activity program). Item w.e./week Control your receipt of Wednesday Walk emails via your Olympus two person tent $15 / $40 membership profile. Contact John, co-ordinator of Wednesday Macpac Microlight one person tent $15 / $40 Walks, via [email protected] for Snow tent $15 / $40 general enquiries. If you are not a member of CBC, BBC or NPA you 3 season bag, mat and liner $10 / $25 must contact the leader before the walk to discuss the level of Assorted packs $5 / $15 difficulty and must be accompanied on the walk by a sponsoring Trangia and fuel bottle $5 / $15 member. Please note that leaders retain the right to not accept any Snow shoes/poles $10 / $25 walker. Snow sleeping bag, mat and liner $15 / $40
Personal locator beacon – nil (see website for conditions) GPS – nil (see website for conditions of use)
Check you have ALL the bits and pieces you need when collecting and returning gear.
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 21 ACTIVITY PROGRAM
Thu 13 Sep: Navigation Refresher #7 – GPSr and PC An evening demonstration of PC software (eg. BaseCamp, OziExplorer) and digital maps to plan and analyse trips recorded on a GPSr. Includes no-cost web resources such as Google Earth and GPS Visualizer → 2 hours Map: N/A Transport: Drive yourself Limit: 8 (will run a repeat session) Leader: John Evans. Book by: Tue 11 Sep, 2:00pm. See online...
Tue 18 Sep: Johnstones Creek, Morton National Park - L/R/Part X/W The start is in the Wingello State Forest 16 kilometres east of Marulan. We’ll head east to Morton National Park and spend a few hours following the cliff tops above Johnstones Creek, Bundanoon Creek and Nyes Creek. In the afternoon we’ll follow Nyes Creek with its attractive rainforests, for two kilometres. Much of the day will be off-track in steep, scrubby country and some rock scrambling is required. There is 5 kilometres on fire-trails. Wet feet likely when we follow Nyes Creek. → 15km ↗ 570 ↘ 570 Maps: Bundanoon, Wingello Transport: 326 km return, 2 hour drive each way Limit: 8 Leader: Ian Wright. Book by: Fri 14 Sep, 10:00pm. See online...
(Sun 16) Tue 18 - Sat 29 Sep: Bibbulmun Track - Walpole to Albany - M/M Walking the south east sections of the Bibbulmun track with rest days in small towns in between. Includes giant karri forest, the beautiful Frankland River, cliff top ocean views with a chance of whale sightings, beach walking, spring flowers and waterbirds, some safe swimming options in calm clear water. Can be combined with Stirling Ranges etc walk 2nd to 12 October. Paper maps = Bibbulmun Track, Map 7 Walpole, and Bibbulmun Track: Map 8 Denmark/Albany, 1:50,000, published by WA Dept Parks and Wildlife. → 126km + 85km Map: Overview map Transport: Airfare to Perth $400 to $700 return if you book early. Bus fare Perth to Walpole $72. Bus fare Albany to Perth $82, or flight Albany to Perth $250 (no-change fare). Plus costs of local taxis to save road bashing at the start and end of some sections. Accommodation: Overnight accommodation in Perth, Walpole, Denmark and Albany. Costs to be confirmed. Limit: 7 Leader: Peter Conroy. Booking: This trip is now fully booked; any further bookings will be wait-listed. See online...
Wed 19 Sep: CBC Annual General Meeting 7.30pm Weston Uniting Church, 16 Parkinson St, Weston
Wed 19 Sep: Wednesday walk E/M BBC Sponsored - M/E Leader: David Wardle Leader: Kathy Handel – BBCWedWalks. No need to book. See online...
Wed 19 Sep: Wednesday walk, M/H, BBC Sponsored - M/R Leader: Peter Wellman. No need to book. See online...
Sat 22 Sep: North Lyneham Eucalyptus Reserve - S/E This short walk is through a little known but very attractive reserve of tallish eucalypts. Nice relaxing meander for a Saturday afternoon. Start at 2pm, finish around 3pm, those who want to can join me for coffee/tea at the Charisma Cafe, North Lyneham → 1 hr ↗ 20 Maps: Canberra 1:25,000 Transport: Drive yourself. Meet at the end of Lewers Close (off Duterraeu Cres) at 2pm. Limit: 16 Leader: Stan Marks. No need to book. See online...
Sat 22 Sep: Billy Billy Rocks Circuit - M/R Follow the track up the spur parallel to Billy Billy Creek, scramble to the top of the Rocks, continue south to the Aboriginal shelter, then approximately north east through the bush to cut the outward track back to the vehicles. → ~ 6km ↗ ~450m Map: Corin Dam Transport:~70km, $28 per vehicle Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online...
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 22 ACTIVITY PROGRAM
Sat 22 Sep - Sun 4 Nov: Hume and Hovell Walking Track - L/M/X I plan to walk the Hume and Hovell walking track (roughly from Yass to Albury) this spring. I have yet to decide exact dates, but the walk is likely to be in October. The track is about 430km long (depending on which source of information you believe), and has a total height gain of about 8,000m. I have walked only a little of the track, but all the information I have suggests that it is a fairly easy walk on well-marked trails, so I expect to take no more than three weeks. If you are interested in the walk, contact me on 0422585519 or [email protected]. → about 430km ↗ about 8,000m ↘ about 8,000m Map: Hume and Hovell Walking Track map set Transport: TBA - depends on number of walkers, walkers for part of track, possible food drops, etc. Accommodation: lightweight tents, usually very small Limit: TBA Leader: Mac Kirby. Bookings have now closed. See online...
Sun 23 Sep: Brandy Flat Hut - M/E After a lazy 9am rendezvous and a 20 minute drive we will walk from the car park near Glendale Depot and follow a track through light bush and grassy slopes. This track meets the Brandy Flat Fire Trail which takes us to the Hut. Along the way there are many ups and downs mixed with some flat stretches. The Hut is situated in a pleasant clearing where we will enjoy a lunch break before returning the way we came. → 11km ↗ 420 ↘ 420 Map: Michelago Transport: $24 per car ($6 - $8pp.) Limit: 16 Leader: Phillip Starr. Book by: Thu 20 Sep, 2:00pm. See online...
Mon 24 Sep: Toddlers Toddle – bushland near Valour Park, Watson - S/M A circuit of around 600 metres designed for families with kids aged from 1 to 5. We will be walking off-track in open woodland, balancing on logs, weaving through a maze of small acacias and exploring some low rocks in the Mount Majura Nature Reserve. We will also have to climb over a fence. No need to book. Meet in the Valour Park car park, a gravel car park on the Federal Highway, Watson (Google Maps address = Valour Park, 881 Federal Highway, Watson). Note that there is no right turn into the car park for anyone coming from the south. Alternatively, if you like a parking spot with less traffic, you can park opposite 54 Tay Street, Watson, and walk 300 metres through Valour Park to meet us. Please be at the meeting point ready to start walking at 10am. Bring a snack. → About 600 metres in 1.5 hours ↗ Less than 5 metres ↘ Less than 5 metres Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Jacqui Rosier. No need to book. See online...
Wed 26 Sep: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E. Walk details e-mailed out prior to the walk. Leader: Jenny Horsfield. No need to book. See online...
Wed 26 Sep: Wednesday walk - Medium Hard, NPA sponsored - M/R Leader Barrie Ridgway. Walk details to be e-mailed out prior to the walk. Leader: Mike Smith. No need to book. See online...
Sat 29 Sep: Mulligans Flat - S/E Meet at 2pm in the main Mulligans Flat car park in the suburb of Forde. This nature park is my favourite with nice open bush and wonderful lighting effects in the late afternoon. → 2hrs ↗ 20 ↘ 20 Maps: Canberra 1:25,000 Transport: Drive yourself but please book as someone near you may need a lift. Go down Horse Park Drive, turn into Francis Forde Boulevard, then left into Amy Ackman St which will take you to the car park. Limit: 16 Leader: Stan Marks. Booking required. See online...
Sat 29 Sep: Another side of Black Mountain - S/E A morning meander, taking in the varied views from the south east corner of Black Mountain Nature Reserve. Optional detour for coffee in the Botanic Gardens towards the end of the walk. → ~7km ↗ ~300m ↘ ~300m Map: Canberra Transport: Drive yourself. Meet at 9.30am at the ANBG Bushland Nature Walk track head. The track head is on the left hand (south) side of Black Mountain Drive, ~100m after turning off Clunies Ross Street, Acton. Leader: Terence Uren. No need to book. See online...
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 23 ACTIVITY PROGRAM
(Fri 28) Sat 29 Sep - Tue 2 Oct: Tonalli Range-Lacys Tableland Exploration - M/R Drive to Yerranderie Friday afternoon or evening for a four day exploration of a remote plateau in the Blue Mountains. Ascend the plateau via Tonalli Pass and base camp for three nights at an upper tributary of Lacys Creek. Two single day walks: southwest to Tonalli Peak for views over Lake Burragorang and beyond; west and north to view Vengeance Peninsula, Shoobridge Mountain and Back Bimlow Walls. Return to Yerranderie via Tonalli Pass. Dramatic cliff views and prolific spring flowers. → 6-8 hours walking per day. ↗ Approx 500 metres up (and down) Tonalli Pass, moderate ups and downs along the tops. Maps: Yerranderie, Burragorang. Transport: ~520km, $203 per car, $51-$68pp. Limit: 8 Leader: Meg McKone. Book by: Tue 25 Sep, 2:00pm. See online...
Sat 29 Sep - Tue 2 Oct: Budawangs - M/R/Part X This walk is mainly on track with some off track sections to visit interesting features. From the Nerriga entrance we will follow the Redgrounds Track to the Endrick River and visit the natural arch and Peg-Top Monolith with close views of Battleship Rock. We will then follow the Endrick River Trail to just past Camp Rock and take a short cut over to the Folly Point Track and then walk out to Folly Point. From there we go down Watson Pass, past both Munnuldi Falls and Sluice Box Falls and up to Sturgiss Mountain. We will climb down into Hidden Valley and then go via track to south of Round Mountain and then through some open forest back to the cars. Please note that this is a 4 day walk. Map: Endrick Transport:$105/car. Limit: 6 Leader: Ian Hickson. Booking: This trip is now full. See online...
Mon 1 Oct: Ridge above Breakfast Creek - M/R From Yankee Hat car park, walk along the Fire Trail to Frank and Jacks Hut, then off track through a mixture of scrub and more open woodland to 1218 spot height, which involves some rock scrambling. Descend a long wooded spur to Old Boboyan Rd and back to car park. There should be some nice spring growth in flower. Map: Yaouk Transport: ~110 km, $44 per vehicle Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online...
(Sun 30) Tue 2 - Fri 12 Oct: Stirling Ranges, Ullala Creek and Fitzgerald River National Park - M/R/X The classic ridgeline walk of the Stirling Ranges. Spectacular and challenging walking several hundred metres above the surrounding plains. Wildflowers. Water at the high camp sites is unreliable - we will need to carry 1 night's water and/or put in one water cache. For walkers experienced in multi-day walks at CBC grade 'rough'. Can be combined with the much easier Bibbulmun Track walk 18th to 29th September. Also a 2 day walk along Ullala Creek in the Mt Frankland National Park, and coastal day walks in the Fitzgerald River National park. Detailed itinerary for both the Bibbulmun Track walk and the Stirling Ranges etc walks attached. This trip is now fully booked; any further bookings will be wait listed. Map: Tba Transport: Air fares to Perth $500 to $700 return if you book early. Bus fare to Albany $162 return, or fly approx $500 return (no-change fare). Share of AWD rental 12 days ex-Albany approx $330 per person if 3 in car. Accommodation: Overnight in Perth (x 2), overnight in Albany (x 3); caravan park camping in other locations x 5 nights - costs to be confirmed Limit: 6 Leader: Linda Groom. Booking: This trip is now full. See online...
Wed 3 Oct: Wednesday walk, M/H, BBC Sponsored - M/R Details of the walk will be e-mailed out prior to the walk Leader: Eric Pickering. No need to book. See online...
Wed 3 Oct: Wednesday walk E/M, BBC sponsored - M/E Leader John Ellis Leader: Kathy Handel - BBCWedWalks. No need to book. See online...
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 24 ACTIVITY PROGRAM
Thu 4 Oct: Mt Coree - L/E This walk is graded easy because it is all on fire trails but note the 850m climb. Starting at Blundells Flat we climb to the summit via Curries Road, Two Sticks Road and Coree Summit Trail. We will enjoy lunch with magnificent views (weather permitting) and return via Summit Trail and Pabral Road. → 19km ↗ 850 ↘ 850 Map: Cotter Dam Transport: $32 per car ($8 - $11pp) Limit: 12 Leader: Phillip Starr. Book by: Wed 3 Oct, 10:00am. See online...
Fri 5 Oct: Toddlers Toddle Mt Painter - S/M This partly shaded walk follows the equestrian trail along the foothills of Mt Painter. The walk is designed for toddlers and provides them with an easy track to walk on, logs to climb over and boulders to scramble on. If we are really lucky we will see horses in the horse paddocks along the way. Total distance about 350 metres. Bring some morning tea for your toddler as we will stop for a short break. No need to book. Meet at 10.00 am in the horse paddocks car park accessed via the road beside 61 Mackellar Crescent, Cook. We expect to finish by 11.30am. → 350 metres Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Diana Kirby. No need to book. See online...
Sat 6 Oct: Arawang to McQuoids - M/E A morning walk along Cooleman Ridge and part of the Bicentennial National Trail, bookended by short steep climbs to take in the views from Mount Arawang and McQuoids Hill. → ~10km ↗ ~250m ↘ ~300m Maps: Canberra, Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself. Meet at 9.00am by the entrance to McQuoids Hill Nature Reserve on the northern side of Kambah Pool Road, Kambah ~1km past the Barritt Street roundabout (look for the timber step-through in the fence line). Short car shuffle. Leader: Terence Uren. No need to book. See online...
Sat 6 Oct: Gungahlin Hill Nature Park - S/E Meet at 10am in the car park for this Nature Park. It lies to the north of the Barton Highway, opposite Giralang and just east of the last suburb in Gungahlin. The walk involves a mix of bush and grassland and there are interesting views from the two low hills giving a different perspective on Canberra. → 2 hrs ↗ 50 ↘ 50 Maps: Canberra 1:25,000 Transport: Drive yourself. The park is accessed from eastbound lanes of the Barton Highway, 1.5km east of the Gundaroo Drive roundabout. Limit: 16 Leader: Stan Marks. No need to book. See online...
Thu 11 Oct: North of Billy Billy Rocks - M/R/Part X On the northern side of Billy Billy Rocks there is a geocache, GC1PVHC . This is the goal for the day. There are lots and lots of granite boulders to be negotiated. Participants will need to be comfortable in scrambling over steep rock. ↗ 450 ↘ 450 Map: Corin Dam Transport: $25.00 per car Limit: 8 Leader: Roger Edwards. Book by: Sun 7 Oct, 2:00pm. See online...
Sat 13 Oct: Centennial Trail west of Gundaroo Rd - S/E This walk will start at 10am. It will take participants along the NSW border for some distance with attractive forest on our left and some views to the right. Once we ascend to an unnamed peak, we will circle back, through the bush, to the start point. Those who want to can join me for lunch at Hall. ↗ 100m ↘ 100m Maps: Hall 1:25,000 Transport: Drive yourself. Take Horse Park Drive just to the west of Forde, then turn north along Mulligans Flat Rd until the NSW border. Just before the border, turn left along the dirt road. There is an area where you can park not far up that road. Limit: 16 Leader: Stan Marks. No need to book. See online...
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(Fri 12) Sat 13 - Sun 14 Oct: Murrumbidgee Jugiong to Gundagai - L/- Paddling the Murrumbidgee from Jugiong to Gundagai. We will travel to Jugiong on Friday evening and camp there. Early am we will complete a car shuffle to the end point then paddle about 41km on Saturday (8 hours), followed by a shorter 25km day on Sunday. Some grade 1 rapids. → About 65km paddling (from Wee Jasper direction, 35km + 30km) Maps: Gundagai, Coolac1:100,000 Transport: ~$70/ per person ($140/car). Limit: 16 Leader: Rowan Peck. Booking required. See online...
Sat 13 Oct: Worn Boot Bash - L/M Our annual madness: ~ 30 km with a mountain or two. This is the same as last year: Mt Clear car park, Sam Aboud's Dunny, Long Flat, border trail, Mt Clear, northerly spur off track down to Demandering Hut, Naas Valley Fire Trail, car park. About 25km and roughly 600m ascent Maps: Bredbo, Colinton Transport: ~120km, $48 per vehicle Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online...
Wed 17 Oct: CBC monthly meeting 7.30pm Weston Uniting Church, 16 Parkinson St, Weston Guest Speaker: Terrylea Reynolds- Rafting above the Arctic Circle on the Coppermine River - 'An Oarsome Experience'
Sat 20 - Sun 21 Oct: Bushwalking NSW Annual Camp Meet bushwalkers from other NSW and ACT Clubs at this annual event organised by our peak body, Bushwalking NSW. The varied program will include optional day walks and training sessions e.g. on Minimal Impact Bushwalking. Camp overnight at the NPWS Bungonia Campground. → Varies - half day walks, full day walks, or camp-based training sessions ↗ Varies Map: Bungonia Transport: $106 per car Accommodation: Book your own camp site directly with NPWS: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and-accommodation/campgrounds/bungonia-campground Leader: Linda Groom. Booking required. See online...
Sun 21 Oct: Mount Rob Roy via Big Monks Trig - M/E A chance for a ridgeline workout over hills to the south east of Canberra's southern suburbs. → ~13km ↗ ~600m ↘ ~600m Maps: Tuggeranong, Williamsdale Transport: Drive yourself but let me know if you need a lift. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Thu 18 Oct, 2:00pm. See online...
Sun 21 Oct: Yankee Hat South - L/R/X Leaving Kambah shops at 7:00am, we drive to the Yankee Hat car park near the Boboyan Road. We then walk towards the rock art site, before picking up a fire trail to a scrubby gully at the base of the two Yankee Hats. Then it’s off-track up the gully to the saddle, then through more scrub to the southern summit of Yankee Hat. Return via same route. For experienced walkers only. In conjunction with BBC → 8 hours ↗ 650m Map: Rendezvous Creek Transport: 100km. Limit: 10 Leader: David Dedenczuk. Book by: Thu 18 Oct, 2:00pm. See online...
Sat 27 Oct: Badgerys Spur - M/M From the rim of the Shoalhaven Gorge we will descend via a steep rocky track, loose in sections, down to the river, with the possibility of seeing blooming Rock Orchids. → 8km ↗ 600m ↘ 600m Maps: Caoura 1:25,000 Transport: 280km return, $110 per vehicle Limit: 12 Leader: Cynthia Breheny. Booking required. See online...
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Sat 27 Oct: Canyoning leaders refresher training, Deakin Practice prussicking and other canyoning techniques using the large oak trees in our garden at 96 Strickland Crescent, Deakin, from 9.30am. Followed by a discussion on how to run the upcoming canyoning training courses. Followed by a simple lunch, courtesy of the Conroy Grooms. This is a self-help refresher session for canyoning leaders only; please book in the usual online way. If you are interested in becoming a canyoning leader please contact me to discuss. BYO ropes and gear. → 2 to 4 hours Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Linda Groom. Book by: Wed 24 Oct, 6:00pm. See online...
Fri 2 Nov: Canyoning leader refresher training, White Rocks #1 - S/R Self-help refresher training for canyoning leaders at White Rocks, Queanbeyan 3pm to 6.30pm. BYO ropes and gear. → 1km walk to White Rocks (2km return) Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Linda Groom. Book by: Tue 30 Oct, 5:00pm. See online...
Fri 2 Nov: South Canberra Ramble - Stage 1 - M/M From Deakin, we'll contour around the western slopes of Davidson Hill, cross into Mt Mugga Mugga Nature Reserve and climb to the top of Isaacs Ridge. We'll follow the ridge through to Wanniassa Hills and finish at the West Fadden trackhead. → ~15km ↗ ~400m ↘ ~300m Maps: Canberra, Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself. Short car shuffle. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Wed 31 Oct, 2:00pm. See online...
Sat 3 - Sun 4 Nov: Cascade Hut Overnight Camping - M/M Cascade Hut is a 10km walk on trails from the Alpine Way just south of Thredbo. There is a picturesque camping spot and after our arrival we can spend the afternoon exploring the area and/or relaxing. → 10km each way ↗ 500m ↘ 500m Map: Chimneys Ridge Transport: We will be driving about 400km return, all on sealed roads. The cost will be roughly $160 per vehicle plus National Park entry fees. Limit: 8 Leader: Lisa Quilter. Book by: Wed 31 Oct, 6:00pm. See online...
Sat 3 Nov: South Canberra Ramble - Stage 2 - M/M We'll start by heading across Wanniassa Hills to Farrer Ridge. We'll follow the ridge through to Taylor Horse Paddocks and then over Mt Taylor before working our way through open woodland to the south of Fisher, ending the day with a climb to the top of Mt Arawang. → ~14km ↗ ~450m ↘ ~450m Maps: Canberra, Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself. Short car shuffle. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Thu 1 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
Sun 4 Nov: South Canberra Ramble - Stage 3 - M/E From the heights of Chapman, we'll follow Cooleman Ridge north to Cooleman Hill before swinging south along the Bicentennial National Trail as far as Pine Island with diversions to take in McQuoids Hill and the knolls of Urambi Hills → ~16km ↗ ~300m ↘ ~400m Maps: Canberra, Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself. Short car shuffle. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Fri 2 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
Mon 5 Nov: South Canberra Ramble - Stage 4 - M/E From Pine Island we'll continue along the Bicentennial National Trail as far as Point Hut and then pick up the Murrumbidgee River Corridor Track. We'll follow this track northwards past Red Rocks Gorge as far as Kambah Pool. → ~16km ↗ ~100m ↘ ~150m Map: Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself. Short car shuffle. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Sat 3 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
Tue 6 Nov: South Canberra Ramble - Stage 5 - M/M From Kambah Pool we'll climb off track to the summit of Forster Hill before descending to pick up the rough footpad that runs through to Casuarina Sands - the end point of our five day ramble. → ~14km ↗ ~150m ↘ ~350m Maps: Canberra, Tuggeranong, Cotter Dam, Tidbinbilla Transport: Drive yourself. Short car shuffle needed. Limit: 12 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Sun 4 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
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(Thu 8) Fri 9 Nov - Tue 18 Dec: Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) - L/R 8 November-18 December: Australian Alps Walking Track, Walhalla to Tharwa, designed to meet up with the Save Kosci Walk atop Mt Kosciuszko on the weekend of December 8-9. The walk is divided into six sections with a rendezvous about a week apart. Members are invited to do the whole trip or some of the sections. Dates and rendezvous locations are described on https://sites.google.com/site/feralkaza/home Bookings due by 15 October Map: See https://sites.google.com/site/feralkaza/home Transport:TBA, approximately $450 per person Accommodation: tent, occasional huts Limit: 4 on any one section Leader: Karen Cody. Book by: Mon 15 Oct, 2:00pm. See online...
(Thu 8) Fri 9 - Sun 11 Nov: Touching the Brogo - L/R/Part X/W We'll drop into the Brogo by way of Greens Creek and continue on to the junction with the Brogo River. We exit via a very long spur. Where we camp will depend on how slow going is Greens Creek. We can get out from the Brogo to the car in a very long day. To gain a bit more time for walking in Green Creek, we will leave Canberra Thursday afternoon to make camp on a fire trail for an early start on Friday morning. We're looking at long days in rough and steep terrain that is partly new to this leader. For suitably experienced and fit walkers. ↗ Around 1000m ↘ Around 1000m Map: Puen Buen and Kydra Transport: Approximately 360km return from Canberra GPO. Transport cost per car about $140. Limit: 5 Leader: Monika Binder. Book by: Thu 1 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
Fri 9 Nov: Canyoning and abseiling training, White Rocks, Queanbeyan - S/R Get ready for the summer canyoning season with this training in abseiling and canyoning techniques, 3pm to 6.30pm. Suitable for complete beginners and also for canyoners who want to refresh their skills. If you do not have your own helmet, harness and descender, please mention that in 'Comments' when you book; a few spare sets will be available. Each participant must pay a $5 'rope fee' to help compensate the leaders who provide the ropes. All participants must be CBC members. Note that the trainers have experience in canyoning but are generally not professionally qualified. → 1km walk to White Rocks (2km return); 3.5 hours but you can leave early if you wish Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leaders: Linda Groom, Peter Conroy. Book by: Tue 6 Nov, 8:00pm. See online...
Sun 11 Nov: Canyoning and abseiling training, White Rocks, Queanbeyan - S/R A second opportunity to get ready for the summer canyoning season with this training in abseiling and canyoning techniques, 8am to 12noon. Suitable for complete beginners and also for canyoners who want to refresh their skills. If you do not have your own helmet, harness and descender, please mention that in 'Comments' when you book; a few spare sets will be available. Each participant must pay a $5 'rope fee' to help compensate the leaders who provide the ropes. All participants must be CBC members. Note that the trainers have experience in canyoning but are generally not professionally qualified. → 1km walk to White Rocks (2km return); 4 hours but you can leave early if you wish Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leaders: Linda Groom, Allan Donnelly. Book by: Thu 8 Nov, 8:00pm. See online...
Thu 15 Nov: Canyoning and abseiling training, Red Rocks Lookout, Murrumbidgee - S/R A third opportunity to get ready for the summer canyoning season with this training in abseiling and canyoning techniques, with the chance to practice some more advanced abseiling including overhangs. 3pm to 6.30pm. Suitable for people who have attended a previous training session or have prior experience. If you do not have your own helmet, harness and descender, please mention that in 'Comments' when you book - a few spare sets will be available. Each participant must pay a $5 'rope fee' to help compensate the leaders who provide the ropes. All participants must be CBC members. Note that the trainers have experience in canyoning but are generally not professionally qualified. → 3.5 hours but you can arrive a bit late or leave early if you wish Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leaders: Linda Groom, Peter Conroy. Book by: Mon 12 Nov, 8:00pm. See online...
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Sat 17 - Sun 18 Nov: Mt Namadgi Birthday Celebrations - M/R Leave from the Yankee Hat car park and walk the grasslands into the mouth of Middle Creek and to the aboriginal rock shelter. Handrail the main arm of Middle Creek up to Big Creamy Flats to camp. It would be nice to summit twice, once for pre-dinner drinks and again for post-breakfast views. See the fabulous aboriginal stone arrangements. For quick walkers. Around 30km and 950vm climb over 2 days. Date changed from 10-11 Nov to 17-18 Nov. → ~30km over 2 days ↗ ~950 ↘ ~950 Maps: Rendezvous Creek, Yaouk Transport: ~$15 Limit:8 Leader: John Evans. Booking: This trip is now full. See online...
Sun 18 Nov: Canyoning in Bungonia - M/R/W Bungonia Creek Canyon is a 'moderate' grade canyon with several long drops and one or two swims of 30m or so. Exit is via the steep Red Track (around 400m). This activity is offered to experienced canyoners and abseilers. When making your booking request, please provide details of your most recent canyoning/abseiling experience, or of any training that you have done, or intend to do. Maps: Bungonia, Caoura Transport: 250km return or $98 per car Limit: 6 Leader: Monika Binder. Book by: Sun 11 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
(Sun 18) Mon 19 - Fri 23 Nov: Wilsons Promontory Southern Circuit - M/E A circuit over 5 days around the granite coastline of the southern tip of the mainland, visiting Oberon Bay, South Pt, SE Pt, Mt Kersop and Mt Oberon, camping along the way at Halfway Hut, Roaring Meg, Little Waterloo Bay and Sealers Cove. May be undertaken as standalone trip or with Tali Karng/Howitt. Book ASAP as campsites are limited - we will secure campsites as soon as cars are filled. Note: unless prospective participants indicate otherwise in the comments box, the leader will assume they are agreeable to sharing email addresses with other party members for trip organisation. → 76km ↗ 1750m ↘ 1750m Maps: Rooftops Wilsons Promontory NP Forest Activities Map 1:50,000 Transport: TBA Accommodation: Camping Leader: Jeff Bennetts. Booking required. See online...
(Sat 24) Sun 25 Nov - Sat 1 Dec: Lake Tali Karng / Mt Howitt (Victoria) - M/M Two 3-day walks In Alpine NP. 1. McFarlanes Saddle - Lake Tali Karng - Mt Wellington, using Nyimba Camp both nights. 2. Howitt car park - Mt Howitt - Mt Magdala - Picture Pt - King Billy, using Hellfire Creek campsite both nights. Middle days with day packs. Plus separate day walk to Bryce Gorge. Access from south. Outstanding alpine walking with extensive views. May be done as standalone trip or after Wilsons Prom. Note: unless prospective participants indicate otherwise in the comments box, the leader will assume they are agreeable to sharing email addresses with other party members for trip organisation. → 1. 32km 2. 34km ↗ 1. 1100m (700m with day packs) 2. 1500m spread evenly ↘ 1. 1100m 2. 1500m Maps: SV Tali Karng-Moroka, SV Buller-Howitt Alpine Area both 1:50,000 Transport: TBA Accommodation: Camping Limit: 9 Leader: Jeff Bennetts. Book by: Thu 8 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
Mon 3 - Sat 8 Dec: Thredbo Village and KNP - A variety of walks S,M,L (E&M) - -/M Please note that this trip is now full and names will be waitlisted. From Silver Brumby Ski Lodge as our base we'll do a series of half and full day medium walks commencing on the Monday after lunch. Proposed walks include Dead Horse Gap, Cascade Hut and Kosciuszko, Merritt's Nature Track and more. All walks are flexible - if the weather is terrible we may stay in the lodge and play cards or you can go to the AIS and swim. Map: Chimneys Ridge and Perisher Valley Transport: To be arranged once final numbers are confirmed. Cost is $156 per car (plus park entry if applicable). Accommodation: Silver Brumby Ski Lodge. Cost per night approx $40 per person. Includes a continental breakfast. Everyone gets their own room with ensuite. All linen is provided (a one-off surcharge of $22 pp for the linen). BYO lunches and we can bbq on the deck at night for dinner. The lodge has the best view of the mountains in all of Thredbo. http://www.silverbrumby.com.au/Home.aspx Limit: 10 Leader: Terrylea Reynolds. Book: This trip is now full See online...
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Fri 7 - Sun 9 Dec: Save Kosci: The Final Kilometres - M/M Join the Save Kosci crew on the final kilometres of their protest walk from Sydney to the summit of Mt Kosciuszko. → See extended activity description ↗ see extended activity description ↘ see extended activity description Maps: Perisher Valley, Geehi Dam Transport: ~$160/car + park entry fees ($17/car/day) Accommodation: Private lodge at Smiggin Holes. Total cost for two nights accommodation $68/per person (twin share). Limit: 16 Leader: Terence Uren. Book by: Mon 5 Nov, 2:00pm. See online...
(Fri 7) Sat 8 - Sun 9 Dec: Lodge-based walks including Save Kosci last day - M/E Day walks from the comfortable Southern Alps Lodge at Charlotte Pass timed to coincide with the last weekend of the 'Save Kosci' protest walk. On one day we will walk on track to Mt Stilwell and then explore the nearby meadows and tops - about 4km return. On the other day we will join the Save Kosci walkers to walk on track to the summit of Kosciuszko (19km return). Please phone Doug Wright 562814148 to discuss and make a booking. Map: Kosciuszko Transport: tba Accommodation: Southern Alps Lodge Limit: Approx 8 people Leader: Doug Wright. Booking required. See online...
(Wed 12) Thu 13 - Sun 16 Dec: Mallacoota to Nadgee Wilderness Walk - M/M We will walk from Mallacoota to Nadgee via the coast. The first travelling day will be used to reach Mallacoota from Canberra and then do the car shuffle. The walk is considered to be a wonderful coast walk and is part of David Briese's far south coast walk - https://www.gang-gang.net/nomad/southcoast/SC15.htm Currently the Mallacoota estuary is closed to the ocean. As well as wonderful isolated beaches there is coastal heath that is home to a shy ground parrot. While the walking is classed as medium there is sand to walk through and maybe some strong winds to face. There is water along the route but it may take extra walking to find it at campsites. At this time of year we will need to use fuel stoves. → 55Kms ↗ around 250 metres to under Tumbledown Mountain plus some other undulations. ↘ 250 metres Map: Narrabarba and Nadgee 1:25 000 and Rooftops Mallacoota - Merimbula Adventure Map Transport: Canberra to Mallacoota - around 350kms and about 4 1/2 hours Mallacoota to Merrica River Ranger Station return trip - around 160 km and about 2 1/2 hours Accommodation: The first night will be at a caravan park at Mallacoota. The next 3 nights will be in tents you carry. Limit: 8 Leader: Lorraine Tomlins. Book by: Wed 5 Dec, 5:00am. See online...
Sat 15 - Sun 16 Dec: Pockets Hut, Leura Gap - L/M/Part X Please note that this trip is now full and names will be wait-listed. Day 1: Drive via Cooma, Adaminaby, Tantangara Dam to the locked gate on Pockets Saddle Road at Gurrangorambla Creek. Walk the 1.5km to the Murrays Gap fire trail turnoff and drop overnight gear. Walk a 7km loop along the Goodradigbee Aqueduct Track – I wonder what we’ll see. Return to pick up our gear and walk a further 3.5km along the Australian Alps Walking Track to Pockets Hut. Day 2: Leave overnight gear at Pockets Hut. Walk with day packs north to Rolling Ground Ridge, then south-east roughly following the ridge before turning east to Leura Gap hoping to find Leura Hut (ruin) on the way. Bonus for those who have gone over to the dark side is a cache at Leura Gap. We then retrace our steps to Pockets Hut. All on old track shown on maps (if track not overgrown) Most of track seems to show on Google Earth. After picking up our overnight gear we will walk the 5km back to our vehicles and return home through Cooma. → Day One 12km (7km with day pack), Day Two 23km (18km with day pack) ↗ Day One 350m, Day Two 750m ↘ Day One 350m, Day Two 750m Maps: Rules Point, Rendezvous Creek and Peppercorn Transport: Approx. $45 - $50 per person Limit: 8 Leader: Phillip Starr. Book: This trip is now full See online...
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Sun 16 Dec: Booths Hill - L/R/X Leaving Kambah shops at 7.00am, we drive to Brandy Flat South car park. We then walk along the Brandy Flat Fire Trail to a point far below Booths Hill. Then it’s into the scrub and a long climb up a ridge to the summit. Return via same route. For experienced walkers only. → 8 hours ↗ 1000m Map: Michelago Transport: 100km Limit:10 Leader: David Dedenczuk. Book by: Thu 13 Dec, 2:00pm. See online...
Fri 28 Dec: Cotter Dam and Mt McDonald - S/E Meet at 2pm at the Cotter Camping area car park near the toilets. It is just past the Murrumbidgee River bridge on the left. We will consolidate the cars and drive the few km to the start point of the walk. We will walk to a lookout over the dam and then climb Mt McDonald, which provides views in all directions. → 2 to 2 1/2 hrs ↗ 200 Map: Cotter Dam Transport: Drive yourself but I will arrange transport if needed. Limit: 16 Leader: Stan Marks. Booking required. See online...
(Fri 11) Sat 12 - Sun 13 Jan: Opera House & Little Austria - L/R/Part X Travel to Jindabyne Friday evening to camp at Island Bend overnight. On Saturday, depart Charlotte Pass to Club Lake, over to Lake Albina, then down Lady Northcote canyon to Opera House Hut where we spend the night. On Sunday, ascend the ridge to Carruthers Peak, through the Little Austria area and alongside The Sentinel (rough, 900m climb), then via Blue Lake back to the cars. About 16-18km and 1500m of climbing. Note: I originally planned to go up the ridge of The Sentinel itself, but after recently studying the terrain from nearby peaks have decided that the terrain risks are too subject to conditions and other factors. → 16 to 18km ↗ 1500 ↘ 1500 Map: Perisher Valley Transport: About $150 per car plus KNP entry fees if applicable. Accommodation: Tents Island Bend Friday night; tents at Hut Saturday night Limit: 8 Leader: Rowan Peck. Booking required. See online...
Mon 11 - Sat 16 Feb: Dusky Track, New Zealand - M/R/W The Dusky Track is a classic New Zealand hiking trail, that gets away from the crowds and heads deep into Fiordland National Park. I plan to tackle the Dusky Track as a six day walk from Lake Hauroko to Lake Manapouri staying in huts. We will not do the side trip from Loch Maree to Supper Cove. Further details about the Dusky Track can be found on the New Zealand Department of Conservation website at https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/fiordland/places/fiordland-national-park/things- to-do/tracks/dusky-track/ A reasonable degree of fitness and experience of multi-day backpacking is required. This walk could be combined with the Rees-Dart Track which will be undertaken after this walk. This walk is fully booked. To be added to the waiting list lodge an expression of interest via 'Send Booking Request'; please describe your experience in multi-day walks. → 68kms Maps: NZTopo50-CE05, NZTopo50- CD06 and NZTopo50-CE06 Transport: Arrange your own transport to Te Anau, New Zealand. Limit: 5 Leader: Gerald Dodgson. Book by: Sat 1 Dec, 2:00pm. See online...
Tue 19 - Sat 23 Feb: Rees-Dart Track, New Zealand - M/M The Rees-Dart Track links two of the most scenic valleys in New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park. We will also do a side trip to Cascade Saddle - arguably one of the most spectacular locations in New Zealand's Southern Alps. I plan to tackle the Rees-Dart Track as a five day walk staying in huts. Further details about the Rees-Dart Track can be found on the New Zealand Department of Conservation website at https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/otago/places/mount-aspiring-national- park/things-to-do/tracks/rees-dart-track/ A reasonable degree of fitness and experience of multi-day backpacking is required. This walk could be combined with the Dusky Track which will be undertaken prior to this walk. This walk is fully booked. To be added to the waiting list lodge an expression of interest via 'Send Booking Request'; please describe your experience in multi-day walks. → 77km Maps: NZTopo50-CA10, NZTopo50-CB10 Transport: Arrange own transport to Queenstown, New Zealand. Limit: 6 Leader: Gerald Dodgson. Book by: Sat 1 Dec, 2:00pm. See online...
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Sun 24 - Thu 28 Feb: Guthega - Tiobunga Lodge - M/M A number of day walks from Guthega, including Mt Tate, the Rolling Grounds, Mt Twynam, either from Guthega or from Charlottes Pass and Spencers Creek. Walks are rated in the medium category, with some possible easy walks, eg Blue Cow Mt or Porcupine Rocks. Other options available depending on the group. Tiobunga lodge has recently been rebuilt with all rooms having an ensuite, and a large commercial kitchen. People can opt for either shared meals or do your own. Some pantry items available in the lodge. Guthega is a quaint little village and has remained relatively unchanged in over 50 years, with good views over Guthega Dam and mountains Tate, Anderson, Anton, etc. The stay is not suitable for high street shoppers, as there are no retail outlets in Guthega. Also, there is poor phone/internet reception from some providers, but is suited for those that like the scenic and quiet, as it is located at the end of the Guthega road and there is no through traffic. Maps: Mount Kosciusko 1:50,000 Transport: Transport around $160 per car, plus park entrance fees. Accommodation: Accommodation costs $32 pp per night, with some early bookers having their own room. Limit: 16 Leader: John Danaro. Booking required. See online...
Wonderful isolated beaches on the Mallacoota to Nadgee Wilderness walk. Lorraine Tomlins is leading a walk along this coastline 12-16 December.
Photo: Meredith Hatherly
Canberra Bushwalking Club it September 2018 page 32 Activity ProgramBulletin for B oardAugust it 2017
The Bulletin Board is for members to advertise (at no cost) goods for sale, private trips or other personal bushwalking-related matters. The Club is not involved in, takes no responsibility for, and does not endorse, the activities or goods advertised here. Hence, if people participate in any activities advertised here, they do so as private individuals, not as members of the Club, and will not be covered by the Club’s insurance. Notices for the Bulletin Board should be emailed to the Walks Secretary: [email protected]
Support the campaign to save Kosciuszko NP from feral horse damage
As most of you would now know, in May 2018 the NSW Parliament passed the Kosciuszko Wild Horse Heritage Act that protects feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park and overrides the National Park plan of management. Feral horse numbers in the National Park are about 6,000 and growing and represent an extremely serious threat to the iconic values of Kosciuszko National Park. The legislation was broadly condemned, including by eminent bodies such as the Australian Academy of Science, the International Union of Conservation and members of the independent technical reference group that oversaw the development of the 2016 draft wild horse management plan. The Invasive Species Council and the National Parks Association of NSW, supported by local, state/territory and national conservation organisations, bushwalking groups and a wide range of stakeholders are working together to repeal the new legislation and seek action that urgently addresses the impacts from feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park. It is important to increase pressure on the NSW government to act, particularly with the next NSW election due in March 2019. The Invasive Species Council will be hiring a person to coordinate campaign efforts from Canberra. They need funds to extend the employment of the campaigner position. If you are able to donate to support these efforts, please contact Invasive Species Council CEO, Andrew Cox at email: [email protected]; phone 0438 588 040 or donate at invasives.org.au/donate.
Andrew Cox CEO Invasive Species Council
Horse damage at the Murray source - Cowombat Flat Photo: Meredith Hatherly
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