September 2006

NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION OF THE ACT INC

Lower Cotter Catchment Plan Namadgi Firetrail Frenzy Environment ACT disappears Symposium report NPA BULLETIN Volume 43 number 3 September 2006

CONTENTS

Fom the President 3 In the Heart of the Budawangs.: 11 Christine Goonrey Philip Gatenby

Where have all the values gone? 3 Easter walk to Mount Gingera 12 Neville Esau Judy Kelly Namadgi Symposium a great success 4 Nature conservation starts in our own backyards 13 Kevin McCue NPA ACT news I. 14 Rachel Sims wins Amanda Carey Award 4 Canberra International Arboretum and Gardens 15 Lower Cotter Draft Management Plan Released 5 Syd Comfort

Neville Esau PARK WATCH „ i 16 Compiled by Len Haskew Mt Franklin Chalet— replacement or upgrade? 6 Ian Currie — Life Member, President, Car-camper Firetrails: NPA joins debate 7 extraordinaire 18 The ACT Budget and Environmental Implications 8 Adrienne Nicholson ,

New plans and new opportunities for Olive Buckman 19 Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve 9 77m Walsh Kevin McCue Memories of Ian \ 19 A Biosphere Reserve Nomination for the ACT? 10 Gary Thompson Syd Comfort Meetings and Calendar of events 20

National Parks Association of the ACT Incorporated Inaugurated 1960 The NPA ACT office is in MacLaurin Crescent Chifley, next to the Aims and objectives of the Association preschool. It is staffed by volunteers but at present not on a regular • Promotion of national parks and of measures for the protection of basis. Callers may leave phone or email messages at any time and fauna and flora, scenery, natural features and cultural heritage in they will be attended to. The post office mail box is cleared daily. the Australian Capital Territory and elsewhere, and the phone/Fax: (02)6282 5813 \ reservation of specific areas. Email: [email protected] • Interest in the provision of appropriate outdoor recreation areas. Address: PO Box 1940, Woden ACT 2606 • Stimulation of interest in, and appreciation and enjoyment of, Internet: www.npaact.org.au such natural phenomena and cultural heritage by organised field outings, meetings or any other means. The NPA ACT website is hosted by our • Cooperation with organisations and persons having similar generous sponsor. Encode. fcPICIOCJ^ interests and objectives. Subscription rates (1 July to 30 June) • Promotion of, and education for, conservation, and the planning Household membership $40 Single members $35 of landuse to achieve conservation. Corporate membership $30 Bulletin only $30 Office-bearers Concession $25 President Christine Goonrey 6231 8395 (h) Advertising Vice-President Chris Emery 6249 7604 (h) The Bulletin accepts advertisemenlls and inserts. The standard cost Secretary Sonja Lenz 6251 1291 (h) of an A4 insert is $310 but some concessional rates may be arranged. Treasurer Rod Griffiths 6288 6988 (h) NPA Bulletin Committee members Contributions of articles, letters, drawings and photographs are always welcome. Items accepted for publication may also be Steven Forst 6251 6817(h), 6219 5236 (w) published on die NPA website. Send all items to The Bulletin Team, Sabine Friedrich 6249 7604 , [email protected] Clive Hurlstone 6288 7592 (h), 040 778 3422 (mob) Deadline for December 2006 issue: 28 November20U6 Judy Kelly 6253 1859 fh, after 7.30pm) Articles by contributors may not necessarily reflect association David Large 6291 4830 (h) opinion or objectives. Kevin McCue 6251 1291 (h) This Bulletin was produced by the NPA Bulletin Working Group. Conveners Printed by Copy-Qik, Canberra, ACT. Outings Sub-committee Mike Smith 6286 2984 ISSN 0727-8837 [email protected] Environment Sub-committee Clive Hurlstone 6288 7592 (h) contact i 040 778 3422 (mob) Cover Photo: Mr Mick Gentleman MLA and NPA ACT cj h urls@bigp ond.net. au President Christine Goonrey with Rachel Sims Publications Sub-committee Sabine Friedrich 6249 7604 receiving her award at the NPA's Symposium Bulletin Working Group Neville Esau 6286 4176 (h) dinner (see page 4). [email protected] From the President Just when we thought it might be safe high on the new department's agenda to slip into a nice mid-winter snooze, and that the person heading up the Land the ACT Government sprang its Management functions, Hamish functional review and 2006 Budget McNulty, is keen to get to know this surprises. We weren't expecting any new area but it still begs the question: good news from the Budget, but to find why is the administration of that Environment ACT had disappeared environmental policy and programs into a black hole labelled Territory and being buried like this? Municipal Services' (TAMS) was a big Despite the disruption to good shock. There was no new money of management which this must be course for things like research into causing, the need to continue climate change and I suppose we bulldozing fire trails through the should be grateful for $35,000 extra in national park continues. Martin Chalk degradation of the natural values of the the endangered species program. did a lot of good work to prepare our park is of huge concern to us. Control However, there was $10 million — yes submission on the new Grassy Creek of erosion on these existing roads alone ten million dollars — over the next four fire trail preliminary assessment which will cost millions of dollars over the years for fire trails in the park. So is covered elsewhere in this Bulletin. next ten years and there seems little money can be found to knock trees We hope it will make a difference to hope of such money being found in the down but not to protect the natural the final proposal because we have seen current circumstances. values of our national park. the damage done by tanker standard fire So we have a long term task ahead I might sound a bit bitter and trails in other areas of the park. On a of us: to remind this and future twisted — government budgets can do recent walk along Smokers Fire Trail governments that they cannot take the mat to you — but the greatest shock we were shocked by the amount of tree environmental vote for granted; that Uie was to find that there was no longer clearing and bulldozing which had downgrading of environmental going to be an Environment ACT. taken place. It looked more like a protection in the ACT will be a critical Dr Maxine Cooper has been moved out logging camp than a national park. issue in the next election and that and the entire staffing and functions of If we had any hope that the supporters of our national park have what we knew as EACT has become upgrades of existing fire trails might very long memories. part of a 'land management division' not be too bad, it has well and truly Christine Goonrey within this new department cobbled been crushed. People walking in the together from the old Urban Services park are reporting this type damage group. The CEO of TAMs, Mike throughout the area and the potential Zissler, has assured the Conservation for silting of streams, erosion of Council that environmental issues are wilderness areas and general Where Have All the Values Gone? We hear and read a lot in uie media flora and fauna is a very sorry one for world as open-air theme parks. Only in these days about the dangers we face in just 200 years. In our local area, the this way will future generations of losing our 'traditional' values. Well, we corroboree frog faces an uncertain Australians continue to enjoy the thrill may also be in danger of neglecting the future in the wild. and wonder of exploring our superb values we place on our national parks It is very tempting for Governments national parks. and forgetting the reasons why areas to look to national parks as a revenue I have taken on the role of Bulletin were declared as national parks — to source when coffers are under strain editor as Syd Comfort takes a well- protect natural values, biodiversity, and and there may well be ways to cater for earned back seat. As you have just read wilderness. Our parks were primarily sustainable commercial use. Many of (I hope) I have staked my claim as a set up as havens for our unique and uie proposals I have seen recently defender of national parks. I want to wonderful biodiversity to flourish and however, including those in the hear and debate your views on this and evolve, but reading many of the Namadgi Draft Plan of Management, many other topics important to NPA statements and management ideas from are definitely not in that category, being members in our Bulletin. I hope you governments these days you could be insensitive, high impact, and will join me. forgiven for thinking that these basic unsustainable. We need to rediscover In closing I would just like to pay purposes have been forgotten in the our 'values' to resist this impending my personal tribute to Syd for his long rush to commercialise our parks. takeover. It has been shown many times and excellent stint as Bulletin editor. Change, they say, is inevitable in in national park management, when We will still be able to tap his this era of globalisation. Change for our commercial interest conflicts with experience and expertise as a member national parks, however, must not be conservation, parks are nearly always of the Bulletin Team and I would like to backward-looking, ushering in lower the loser. encourage any other members who standards of care and levels of We need to revive our passion and would like to help with the Bulletin to protection for our parks. Are we going enthusiasm for natural areas to ensure join us. to undo all the advances we have fought that they remain just that, natural. We Neville Esau for over the past fifty years in managing need to see our care and management parks to conserve natural values? Our get better, wiui adequate resources, not record of extinctions of our Australian subject to a takeover by the commercial Namadgi Symposium a Great Success

the scientific outcomes of llli researcn- Research, we knew, was underway or had already been signed off on, but wasn't being publicised. This second conference would, we hoped, shine a bright light on the science and highlight the necessity for its continuation and possible expansion. The extent to which we have In late 2004, the management conference, albeit on a smaller scale achieved our goals is up to the reader of committee of the National Parks than that planned for the half-century the proceedings. From the organising Association of the ACT decided to celebration. committee's viewpoint I think it has organise a public conference to explore This was to be the second scientific been a great success. The scientists the scientific research currently conference hosted by NPA ACT since have been put on the podium, their undertaken in Namadgi National Park. its inception in 1960. The first was held faces are known, their research shown Our goals were: to coincide with the association's silver to be not only relevant but most • to discover what research was being jubilee year in 1985, two decades ago, interesting and exciting. The great conducted of relevance to Namadgi and nearly two years after the gazetting depth of their knowledge has really NP for the education of the comm ittee of the southern half of the ACT as a only been hinted at, a taste for future and all members of the association, national park for the national capital. In nourishment. And there are other • to evaluate the scope of research late November/early December of that researchers who either couldn't join us available for managers preparing to year NPA ACT held a conference at the or whom we didn't know about until sign off on the draft plan of Australian National University titled too late. management for Namadgi NP, Australia's Alpine Areas: Management On behalf of both the organising • to determine whether there were any for Conservation. The proceedings, committee and the management gaps in the research, and finally edited by Kevin Frawley, were committee of NPA ACT 1 would like to • to expose the public to the wealth of published in 1986. That conference thank each and every one of the knowledge of our local natural world aimed at fostering a cooperative presenters, to congratulate Rachel Sims available in the national capital and to approach to the conservation of alpine who was awarded the inaugural the management processes put in areas in Victoria, New South Wales and Amanda Carey prize for the adjudged place to protect the conservation the Australian Capital Territory. best paper by a young researcher and to values of Namadgi NP. The conference goal was achieved, thank my fellow committee members The committee had already started to a limited extent although precious without whom this conference would to think about planning an appropriate little news filtered down to the public not have occurred. from the regular meetings: between park celebration for NPA ACT's 50tH Kevin McCue anniversary, still six years away at that managers, so it was difficult to assess time. This conference would give us their impact on management outcomes. some practical experience of hosting a This lack of transparency is also true of Rachel Sims wins Amanda Carey Award The winner of the inaugural Amanda of our parks and reserves. It carries a protect Namadgi National Park because Carey Award was announced at the grant from NPA ACT of $250 to assist of its unique nature. Before Rachel's NPA ACT Symposium on 8 May (see with publication and dissemination of work, there was no detailed work on cover photograph). Rachel Sims, d the research and associated Costs. dusky woodswallows so we had no idea talented young researcher at ANU won In hei1 presentation to the weekend that such unique behaviour was going the award for her work with dusky conference Rachel Sims said that dusky on right under our noses. We have only woodswallows in Namadgi National woodswallows provide an exceptional just begun to scratch the surface of the Park. In making the presentation, example of very complex social treasures we have in the park. Mr Mick Gentleman MLA, said she had behaviour. They combine colonial It was particularly fitting that the won the award not only because her nesting with migratory habits but they award was made at the first NPA work was fascinating but because it has! also have a cooperative social system Symposium because it was Amanda's international significance in that it which allows them to share the task of presentation to the 20th anniversary indicates bird migration and social raising young. Adults set up a creche, celebrations for the declaration of behaviour is more complex than has bringing together young fledglings Namadgi National park that sparked the previously been thought. from different families so that adults idea of the symposium in the first place. The award commemorates the work Can share their feeding and care. This Her enthusiasm, professionalism and of the popular national park ranger and system has not been observed anywhere delight in the work she was doing researcher Amanda Carey who died last else in the world. inspired us to think about how we could year. The award is designed to Rachel's research shows that our get the general public could hear about recognise and encourage young local eco-systems are an important part the work being done in the park. So her scientists and researchers and to of international research. It underlines legacy lives on in the Amanda Carey promote sound scientific management how important it is to conserve and Award and in the NPA symposium. Lower Cotter Draft Management Plan Released The ACT Government has at last and the consequent disturbance of released a Draft Strategic Management fragile soils that are highly prone to Plan for the Lower (northern) Cotter erosion. The CSIRO study identifies Catchment (LCC), which is the roads and gullies as a major source catchment for the Cotter Dam. of sediment pollution in streams. Participants at the recent NPA The extensive road network Symposium heard a brief preview of required for commercial pine the new management plan which plantations cannot co-exist with a represents a complete about face on the high quality water catchment. The original plan by the ACT Government draft plan proposes that there will to replace the pine plantations in this be no more commercial or broad- area burnt in the 2003 fires. There was considerable criticism and community debate of the original plan focusing on the impact the replanting and subsequent plantation management would i have on water quality in the lower j Above. Hardy Rangepre-fire. Cotter. Left. Condor Creek post-fire. At present sixty-six per cent of j Photos Max Lawrence the LCC is part of Namadgi National Park and the rest is I The Boboyan pine plantation which former ACT Forest. The draft plan had also been in Namadgi since refers only to the forestry land. inception and has now been removed, Under the draft plan, no is well on the way to restoration with further commercial pine native species, largely through plantations would be established voluntary effort. This could be a in the Lower Cotter Catchment and acre pine plantations in the catchment. blueprint for the restoration of the LCC. existing plantations would be phased The existing plantations will be To ensure the long-term out over thirty-five years. Areas in the managed on a non-commercial basis conservation of the LCC the whole area catchment zoned for commercial pine and phased out when it is feasible to should be included in Namadgi; this plantations in the Territory Plan would convert the area to a native vegetation would provide a totally compatible and be rezoned as Mountains and Bushland. cover. This may mean, says the plan, consistent management regime for the The draft plan has been prepared by that the plantations will grow for a full whole of the Cotter catchment and a Environment ACT together with crop cycle of 30 to 35 years. The areas secure long-term future for high quality ACTEW and the Emergency Services with pines are likely to be converted to water from the Cotter dams for Authority, and draws on the findings of eucalyptus woodland with grassy Canberra. The need for a better level of the CSIRO study "Re-vegetation of under-story. protection was reinforced with the water supply catchments following Since the 2003 fires some events of May 16 when the bushfire", commissioned by the ACT restoration work has been carried out in management of uie Lower Cotter was Government last year. The draft plan is the catchment to address water quality again embroiled in controversy. A large being driven by the recognition, issues, including removal of pines, de­ number of windrows, the remains of following our recent prolonged commissioning of roads, and pine plantations from the 2003 fires, droughts in the ACT and surrounding installation of sediment control. Some were burnt; the resulting high-intensity regions, that the water from the Lower 1300 hectares of replanting has also fire escaped, destroying areas of native Catchment, stored in Cotter Dam, is been carried out although it is regrowth, and again exposing steep very valuable. Following the regrettable that this includes pines as slopes to the risk of severe erosion. completion of the Mount Stromlo well as native species. It is now More appropriate management for treatment facility we have begun to use proposed that the area in the LCC water quality and conservation is Cotter Dam water for the first time in zoned for commercial pine plantations clearly needed. over thirty years. The volume of water in the Territory Plan be re-zoned to be Submissions on the Draft Strategic flowing into the catchment is equivalent consistent with the rest of the Cotter Plan will have closed by uie time you to about half of the water that is catchment (the upper catchment) are reading this; the closing date was currently drawn from the Bendora and currently zoned as Mountains and 31 July. The NP A/ACT has made a Corin Dams, which together provide Bushland. submission advocating the addition of most of Canberra's annual water The majority of the Cotter the LCC to Namadgi. The Chief requirements. Water from me LCC can catchment has been part of Namadgi Minister has said that "clean water from therefore contribute significantly to since the park was declared; healthy catchments is a priority for the Canberra's water supply. management of this area for ACT Govemmenf. We should make The quality of water from the LCC, biodiversity and to conserve park sure that this means the best and most however, is generally poor compared values has proved highly compatible secure conservation of the Cotter with the upper catchment. This is partly with management for water quality. Valley in the Namadgi National Park. due to the 2003 fires, but also to the There seems no good reason why the Neville Esau dense road network in the catchment LCC should be treated any differently. Mt Franklin Chalet - replacement or upgrade? As you might have noticed in We have no knowledge of the report of the June NPA where the money is meeting. Rod Hillman coming from. The plans informed members that there show a substantial was a proposal to erect a building possibly larger in substantial structure on the size than the destroyed site of the Franklin Chalet; chalet. (Certainly the all approvals had been footprint appears larger.) obtained, contracts had been We understand that the let, footings would be poured structure was designed by in September and building students at the University completed by February of South Australia and is 2007. This is a very being prefabricated in SA unsatisfactory outcome from and shipped to the site for an NPA perspective. Our erection. The cost must be Vice-President, David Large, From the chalet as it was (above), to the chalet site after the considerable. has been following the issue 2003fires (below), to ... ? Photos Max Lawrence The design shows a public and brings us this update. area and private area. The private area is said to be for CAC to store artefacts. Background Most of the artefacts were The Mount Franklin in fact lost in the bushfire Chalet, the oldest ski club and any organisation chalet on the mainland, was wanting to put any left constructed for the Canberra (which must now be Alpine Club in 1938, with valuable) in such an bunk accommodation for 32, isolated situation would on leased land. The chalet be seen to be reverted to the Government irresponsible. Moreover, when Namadgi National Park the previous structure was was created. fully secure, there was no Mt Franklin Chalet and public access. This new Precinct is listed under the structure by its nature is Heritage Act 2004 and is on would be kept informed of any designed to draw the public. The public land and subject to a plan of decisions. opportunity for vandalism is greatly management. increased. In the January 2003 bushfires, the It could be argued that the old Mt Franklin Chalet was burnt to the Where to now? Mt Franklin Chalet was used ground and totally destroyed. It is very disturbing that NPA has exclusively by the Canberra Alpine not been kept informed of progress in Club. This may be so. However, it was commemorating the site of the Commemoration of an accepted situation given the Mt Franklin Chalet. There is no doubt significant heritage value of the chalet Mt Franklin Chalet that NPA is a major stakeholder in and the need to have an active Immediately after the 2003 fires, it Namadgi National Park and advice organisation to maintain the structure. was proposed that there be some form would have been expected, it is doubly If CAC achieved some ancillary benefit of recognition of the site. Various disturbing that the proposal has by using the chalet — so be it. proposals were suggested, but the one proceeded so far despite specific But this situation changed mat appeared to be most likely was a inquiries by members of NPA — this is dramatically when the chalet was burnt simple shelter with interpretive signs. not fair dealing. down. The question of recognising This was expected to be similar to the The plans and models can be heritage structures falls within the arrangement at Honeysuckle Creek discovered on the Canberra Alpine purview of the Heritage Council and Campground which recognises the old Club website at www.cac.org.au the Heritage Unit in [the former] tracking station. An elaboration on this under What's New. Note that they were Environment ACT. There is an proposal was to include a picnic area, posted on 30 April 2006 although an approved process to be followed under possibly as elaborate as that at Bulls earlier notice says they were available the Heritage Act 2004 and necessary Head. to members on 28 March 2006. It approvals provided. The In April 2006, I called in to the would appear that the only organisation commemoration of the chalet should Namadgi Visitors Centre on another involved in this project was the have had regard to the Burra Charter. matter and noticed a sketch plan of a Canberra Alpine Club. The question proposed Franklin Commemorative should be raised whether other NPA will be having further structure. Staff told me that this was stakeholders, such as Kosciuszko Huts discussions with Environment ACT (or just one of many proposals being Association and other historical and its successor); we will be bringing you considered and that no decisions had heritage organisations, have been further updates. been taken. I was assured that NPA informed. Firetrails: NPA joins debate Fire management in Namadgi: Where are we headed? Over the past 12 months many fire trails in Namadgi have been "upgraded" and this work continues; new trails are also planned. This activity arose initially from the recommendations of the McLeod Inquiry following the 2003 fires. NPA has become very concerned that the extent of these additions and upgrades will impact severely on the natural values of Namadgi. The rationale for all the new activity is usually given as "better protection from wildfire" and "access for fuel reduction burns to decrease the likelihood of wildfires" to quote a recent preliminaty assessment for a typical upgrade. Other subsidiary reasons unrelated to fire Namadgi National Park. It is claimed Government to come clean about what management are sometimes added these new fire trails are required under it wants for Namadgi National Park, to bolster the case. the Strategic Bushfire Management whether it respects the conservation The evidence from past fire Plan, put in place following the values of the park or is looking to build events has never seemed to support McLeod Inquiry in 2003. NPA ACT is a vast network of fire trails as a stalking the rationale for constructing an suspicious that the government is horse for creating tourist roads through ever widening web of trails criss­ cherry picking which of the inquiry's the park. For example, why put part of crossing our national parks, even recommendations it wants and the current Grassy Creek fire trail one as catastrophic for Canberra abandoning others at its own through pristine bushland and animal as the 2003 fire. One cannot avoid convenience. habitat if it merely duplicates existing the conclusion that constructing At the time of their release, the fire trails? This level of unnecessary firetrails is a sort of knee-jerk recommendations of the McLeod investment seems to be part of a reaction to any perceived Inquiry were accepted in their entirety strategy that has Uie capacity to destroy shortcomings in stopping or by the ACT Government. However, uie the very characteristics of our national preventing wildfires by our recent functional review of uie ACT park that attract people to visit in die bushfire services. Fir etrail bureaucracy and the 2006/07 ACT first place and to threaten the quality of construction almost always seems budget has seen one of the key the ACT's water supply. to be an inevitable outcome of any recommendations from die McLeod Namadgi National Park is the ACT's enquiry or investigation into fire enquiry rejected, with the loss of the environmental jewel and uie Minister management and, over time, seems independence of the Emergency responsible for environmental issues to spread across the landscape like Services Authority. Other McLeod must either declare his intention to some form of creeping organism. recommendations have been made exploit uie park commercially or put We have now begun lobbying to redundant by better planning and such ideas to rest once and for all. try to scale back this construction improved fire to limit damage to park fighting strategies, ecosystems. The NPA has recently including new lodged a submission on the works to support proposed changes to firetrails in aerial fire fighting, the Grassy Creek area and written but it is clear from to the Canberra Times to publicise the Grassy Creek our concerns. proposals that the full scope of the Our President wrote: original proposals The National Parks Association of is still being the ACT is deeply concerned about the pursued. proposed development of new fires It is now the trails in the Grassy Creek area of time for ACT

Top right and right. Firetrail 'upgrading' on Smokers Trail. Many trees felled lengths pushed aside; much of this debris pushed into gullies, extra-wide passing or turning bays are frequent, leaving even bigger scars bulldozed into the bush. Photos Adrienne Nicholson, July 2006 The ACT Budget and Environmental Implications As our President noted in her foreword works such as bog recovery. weed programs, to pig eradication (page 3) the ACT budget and New money in the budget has been programs, to weekend supervision of departmental reorganisation will have a allocated to the funding of an extra the park and closure of the Namadgi devastating effect on the delivery of 44km of fire trails and the upgrading of Visitors Centre and campgrounds have environmental services in the ACT. the existing 55kms of fire trails. This is not been denied. Impacts arising from new arrangements a focus on out-dated and often We also know a little of the people proposed by the still secret Costello ineffective wildfire management charged with carrying out these budget Functional Review will be widely felt through reliance on large-scale tankers cuts. Russell Watkinson has been with cuts of up to 20 per cent of to access remote bushland. It ignores appointed acting Director of Parks, previous budget for the area and staff the more effective and efficient Conservation and Land Management losses of 30 or 40 people. strategies being developed including and he at least has extensive experience The analysis of budget papers can quad-bike operations, remote area fire in national park management and be both difficult and time consuming. fighting capacity and aerial fire conservation. Hamish McNulty, an Added to this, the 2006-07 Budget is fighting. There is no on-going funding engineer with little environmental alarming in its breathtaking lack of for maintenance of these fire trails so experience has been appointed acting detail regarding the delivery of policy we can expect serious erosion problems Executive Director of the Recreation and programs, the restructuring of as time goes on. and Land Management Division and Environment ACT (EACT) and its Conservator of Flora and Fauna, mooted amalgamation with other land What's missing? reporting directly to the departmental management areas of the bureaucracy. head, Mike Zissler. They express great This means that it is virtually There is no specific funding enthusiasm for the job ahead and a impossible to identify what money is recognising climate change, for willingness to listen to the specifically targeted to the environment example, additional funding for community — after the cuts have been and who will be responsible for research into the appropriate response made! to invasion by species migrating into environmental outcomes for the There are other losses, apart from the area in response to habitat changes Territory. the subsuming of EACT into a land in their traditional areas. There is no management agency. Our community funding for implementation of the has a reasonable expectation that there The Budget Namadgi Management Plan and no would be, somewhere in the system, an funding for the rehabilitation of the A further 10 per cent cut in staff and office of environmental advocacy degraded Lower Cotter area. funding has been flagged but there is no whose role it is to highlight the recognition that there has been about importance of and sustain the profile 20 per cent reduction in staffing in The Functional Review for significant environmental issues Environment and Heritage over the past within the ACT. Both the two years. Subsequent reports state that From early reading of the proposed changes there is considerable cause for Environmental Defender's Office and $7.9 million must be saved either from the Office of Sustainability are for the the environment budget of about concern. The new administrative arrangements seem to offer little budget chop and independent statutory offices $24 million or from the combined are to be abolished. Environment, Sustainability, Heritage savings but would appear to Without specific expertise and and Forestry budget of about significantly reduce the authority and interest at senior agency level, eg in the $40 million — it is very difficult to tell capacity of environmental agencies to Conservator's role, housing developers which. carry out reasonable regulatory and administrative protection of the ACT's will be free to remove trees and We are already greatly concerned environmental assets, including clean vegetation; road builders will be able to about the loss of park management staff water, air and management of our parks pollute water courses and activities to date. It is reasonable to assume that and reserves. harmful to both urban and rural further cuts will prevent proper During EACT's reorganisation there environments will become extremely management of the park, undermine is no transparent process for difficult to monitor, check and be held feral animal and weed control programs organisations or the general public to appropriately accountable for. as well as exacerbate existing concerns understand, support or liaise with NPA members are urged to contact about public safety in the park because EACT. However, thanks to information the Minister, their local member, the of increases in illegal activities such as in the Canberra Times we know a little media, or anyone else who can help shooting, pig hunting and illegal access of what is proposed. Outsourcing correct a disastrous outcome for the to management trails. There could also Namadgi Park to NSWPWS has been environment in the ACT. be a complete collapse in vital research denied by the Minister but cuts to feral activities and fire damage mitigation

Fifth National Wilderness Conference Cdeh&fong 'W-LM&m&fr — The Contribution of Wilderness to a Sustainable Society

8-10 September 2006 Contact: Colong Foundation for Wilderness Ltd Main Campus, UTS, Broadway, Sydney Tel 02 9299 7341; Fax 02 9299 5713 www.colongwilderness.org.au Email [email protected] New plans and new opportunities for Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve NPA ACT General Meeting, contribute directly to the scientific walkers to the bush and an opportunity Thursday 15 June 2006 research projects (~$2800/yr to introduce new facilities. That is why Speaker: Rod Hillman, Manager, maximum), and the ranger's time will NPA ACT wants to be involved said Community and Visitor Programs, also be paid by CVA. Following Rod. It is hoped to reach as many ACT Department of Arts, Heritage submissions from organisations such as people as practical. There were about and Environment. Rod previously NPA ACT, the tours will not enter 700 participants at the first walk held positions in teaching, tourism wilderness areas. through Goorooyarroo and Mulligans overseas for 10 years, ecotourism Rod believes the tours are about Flat nature reserves and some 500 on in Qld and WA, park service in WA achieving a conservation outcome. the Murrumbidgee River Corridor walk and ACT and is deputy chair of Environment ACT provides expertise, trail last year. Ecotourism Australia. advice and the venue, CVA is the tour To be fair, Rod Hillman had operator, Ian Fraser and the rangers are Mt Franklin Chalet accepted Clive Hurlstone's invitation to the guides. speak to the general meeting well The chalet was burnt to the ground in the January 2003 fire. Rod outlined before the ACT Government Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve announced its decision to demolish the plans to build a new L-shaped shelter in Arts, Heritage and Environment Community and Visitor Program a new location so as not to compromise Department and relegate environment staff hope to attract more than 100 000 the heritage site of the old chalet. [This issues to a junior officer in the mega visitors per year to the rebuilt TNR and was news to NPA ACT! - author]. A Department of Territory and Municipal nature discovery centre which would design has been developed in Services. He began by putting up the have a new look based around two open consultation with the Canberra Alpine vision statement of Visitor Services: ponds or wetlands (previously there Club (CAC) by staff and students from were five ponds), a closed two the University of South Australia who A community that values and kilometre walk with natural unfenced will also construct the building. It is supports its natural and cultural areas with endemic species (feeding planned to start erecting the building in environment. themselves to 80 per cent of February 2007 on footings laid this Rod's goal is to get every resident requirements) and a secondary path September. All planning approvals have of the ACT to value their natural and around Blackflat weir with a recreation been obtained, said Rod. cultural environment. He summarised area. Previously the ponds were silting Rod dealt with lively, spirited the Visitor Services projects under his up and harboured botulism. questioning over the plans for the new wing until the capital works are They will establish interpretative chalet and the program for the complete, but concentrated his signage and seek the involvement of conservation volunteers. Why had other comments on: Conservation Volunteers dedicated volunteer-guides, rangers and organisations with an interest, like Australia (CVA) tours, Tidbinbilla wildlife staff. There will be a veterinary NPA ACT, not been included in the Nature Reserve (TNR), The Great centre open to public viewing. The discussions to change the plan from Australian Bushwalk and Mt Franklin management plan expects a return on providing interpretative signage to Chalet replacement. the investment (Rod mtimated a second erecting a new building on Mt phase with more development and an Franklin? Why was no development CVA Tours access fee — down the track and with application made public as part of a private sector partnership or else the normal planning process? Why is it Rod affirmed that he is a great cost will come out of the conservation necessary to put at risk of fire and theft believer in ecotourism and mentioned budget). valuable heritage equipment by storing tours in the Grampians and on Rod commented that the playground it on site? Why provide accommodation Montague Island. The tourists are is already proving successful in facilities if none is needed or desired? considered to be volunteers and are attracting new people to Tidbinbilla, Is this project in conflict with the expected to work. The proposed CVA people who might take successive steps management plan of Namadgi National ecotour in the ACT would be led by Ian from there to Namadgi. Park? What training and quarantine Fraser and contribute to the Corroboree The two pise buildings in TNR, Nil regulations would the volunteers Frog and Brush-tailed Rock Wallaby Desperandum and Rock Valley undergo who would be handling the programs. Over three days and two Homestead, were badly damaged in the eggs of endangered species? Is the nights, participants would each pay 2003 fires and will be treated financial reward sufficient to about $650 to: drive to Bulls Head, find differently. Nil Desperandum will be compensate staff resources? and collect frog eggs at Ginini wetlands restored and tenders have been called Rod bemoaned the lack of public (with scientist Murray Evans) and for that. A roof might be erected to transport out to Tidbinbilla, and we watch and assist TNR staff in frog cover the Rock Valley Homestead agreed that many issues remain husbandry tasks, then participate in remains or the ruins made safe, the unresolved! walks and talks in Tidbinbilla with Ian walls cut down to one metre high, and Rod was thanked for his informative Fraser and a Ngunnawal representative, managed as a ruin according to the presentation and agreed we live in Adrian Brown. Burra Charter. interesting times. It is envisaged that there would be four parties of 12 volunteers Kevin McCue (48 maximum per year) who would Great Australian Bushwalk camp at Wood's Reserve, in January Community and Visitor Program and March each year. According to Rod staff believe that the GAB provides an roughly 10 per cent of the fee would opportunity to introduce first-time A Biosphere Reserve Nomination for the ACT? Earlier this year the ACT Legislative on Biosphere Reserves in tbe early '90s Biosphere and devoting resources to it Assembly Standing Committee on but this has not met since 2001. Since At a minimum, the council would Planning and Environment (the 2003 an organisation for volunteers envisage the establishment of a Standing Committee) invited supporting Biosphere Reserves has committee representing all community participation in its inquiry operated from the Mornington stakeholders. into the proposed nomination of the Peninsula and Westernport Biosphere All but four of the submissions ACT as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Reserve. Australian Government lodged with the inquiry supported the NPA ACT cooperated with the legislation provides mat each Biosphere proposed nomination of uie ACT as a Conservation Council in responding to Reserve in Australia should have a Biosphere Reserve The Issues Paper this request. On July 18 the Standing management plan and that this plan be summarises the advantages of such a Committee launched an issues paper on developed and implemented nomination as presented in some this subject that provided background cooperatively by the Australian submissions and the reservations information, summarised community Government and the State or Territory. expressed in others, and indicates the responses to the earlier request, and There is also provision for the Standing Committee's preliminary indicated the Standing Committee's Commonwealth Government to give views on many facets of the proposal. position on a number of aspects of the financial or other assistance for the The Issue Paper goes on to consider the proposal. The community was invited protection or conservation of a following aspects of such a nomination: to provide feedback on the matters Biosphere Reserve. • the basis of the nomination in raised in the paper. In the ACT, ecologically sustainable relation to the stated criteria; UNESCO Biosphere Reserves had development has Government policy • the boundaries of the nominated their origin in the UNESCO's Man and support as set out in such documents as area; the Biosphere Program which was the Natural Resource Management • the identification of the three officially launched in 1970 and was Plan 2004-2014. The Chief Minister component areas — core, buffer and initially intended to establish has affirmed that the ACT Government transition — within the proposed representative examples of terrestrial is committed to pursuing the reserve; and coastal areas in a range of nomination of the Territory as a • cross-border issues and the biogeographical regions where a broad Biosphere Reserve and has established relationship of the ACT proposal to range of human interactions with a Sustainability Expert Reference neighbouring areas in NSW; ecosystems could be studied, generic Group headed by Professor Roberts of • logistics support functions such as resources could be preserved, and the University of Canberra. The research and monitoring; research and training could be Centenary of Canberra Task Force has • name of the proposed Biosphere undertaken. The first Biosphere recommended that Canberra should bid Reserve; Reserves were named in 1976. Since to establish a Biosphere Reserve • timeframe for the proposed the mid 1980s the focus of the program by 2013. nomination; has moved to ecologically sustainable The Conservation Council supports • viability of the proposed nomination; development and associated research the concept of the ACT applying to • management bodies and structures and monitoring. The aims of the have the ACT accepted as a Biosphere for processing the nomination and program were restated along these lines Reserve and believes such a declaration managing the reserve; and at Seville, Spain in 1995 and include: would: • funding needs and sources. • to foster sustainable economic and • provide international recognition for In its conclusion, the Standing human development; the ACT's approach to integrating Committee recognises the significant • to preserve landscapes, ecosystems, sustainable economic and human opportunities that creating a Biosphere species, and genetic resources; and development within a context of Reserve would have in many areas such • to support demonstration projects, preserving landscapes, ecosystems, as the knowledge-based industries, environmental education and training, species and genetic resources; tourism, commitment to sustainability and research and monitoring related • attract international tourist interest and the development of an innovative, to local, national and global issues of and investment in the ACT around sustainable regional economy. But in conservation and sustainable the themes of sustainability, social the Standing Committee's view there is development. equity and healthy environment and much consultation and discussion that As at 7 July 2005 there were natural landscapes; has yet to dccur in relation to this 482 Biosphere Reserves worldwide in • enable the ACT to have a positive proposal. Community ownership and 102 countries. Since 2000 the extension influence internationally on issues enthusiasm are needed for the potential of the Biosphere Reserve concept to such as sustainable development of the proposal to be realised. urban areas has been under examination social equity and ecology; and Syd Comfort and recent nominations are increasingly • provide a basis for ACT stakeholders located close to urban areas, and to come together to examine how to Postscript. The Conservation development functions are recognised harmonise and promote the aims and Council has been awarded a As at June 2006 Australia had objectives of a Biosphere Reserve $15 000 Environment ACT grant 13 Biosphere Reserves, most of which and the ACT as a place of interest to 'engage the community in were listed between 1977 and 1982 tourism and investment. developing support' for the under the pre-Seville Strategy The Council's support for the Biosphere Reserve nomination. approach. The Australian Government application is conditional on the ACT established a UNESCO Working Group being committed to Man and the NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM September 2006 - January 2007

Outings Guide Distance grading (per day) Terrain grading 1 — upto 10km A — Road, firetrtailtrac k E — Rock scrambling 2 — 10kmtol5km B — Open forest F — Exploratory 3 — 15kmto20km C — Lightscrub 4 —above20km D — Patches of thick scrub, regrowth Day walks Carry lunch, drinks and protective clothing. Pack walks Two or more days. Carry all food and camping requirements. CONTACT LEADER EARLY. Car camps Facilities often limited. Vehicles taken to site can be used for camping. CONTACT LEADER EARLY. Other activities include nature rambles and environmental and field guide studies. Passenger transport. The committee suggests a donation, to the nearest dollar, of THIRTY SLX cents per kilometre. This is based on four occupants in the car including the driver. When odd numbers arise, the total contribution is divided by the number of cars. The amount may be varied at the discretion of the leader. Drive and walk distances quoted in the program are approximate distances for return journeys.

Points to note Please help keep our outings program alive by volunteering to lead outings. New leaders are welcome. The outings convener is happy to suggest locations suitable for a walk if you do not have something in mind yourself. Feel free to send in suggestions for outings to the association's office as soon as you think of them, with a suggested date.

All persons joining an outing of the National Parks Association of the ACT do so as volunteers in all respects and as such accept responsibility for any injury howsoever incurred and the National Parks Association of the ACT, its office bearers and appointed leaders, are absolved from any liability in respect of injury or damage suffered whilst engaged in any such outing.

In voluntarily participating in these activities conducted by the NPA, participants should be aware that they could be exposed to risks that could lead to injury, illness or death or to loss of or damage of their property. These risks could include but are not limited to slippery and or uneven surfaces, rocks being dislodged, falling at edges of cliffs or drops or elsewhere, risks associated with crossing creeks, hypothermia, heat exhaustion and the risks associated with any of the Special Hazards listed on the Attendance Record and Risk Waver Form provided by the leader at the start of the activity.

To minimize these risks participants should endeavour to ensure that the activity is within their capabilities and that they are carrying food, water, equipment, clothing and footwear appropriate to the activity. Participants should advise the leader if they are taking any medication or have any physical or other limitation that might affect their participation in the activity. Participants should make every effort to remain with the rest of the party during the activity and accept the instructions of the leader. By signing the Attendance Record and Risk Waver Form participants agree that they understand these requirements and considered the risks before choosing to sign the form and waiver any claim for damages arising from the activity that they might have against the club, the leader or any other participants in tort or contract.

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — SEPTEMBER 2006 - JANUARY 2007 9 September, Saturday Work Party 27 September, Wednesday Walk An enjoyable walk around twelve Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group Leader: Philip Gatenby historic sites. In addition to the usual Contact: Syd Comfort 62862578, Contact: 6254 3094 or sites like the shearing shed complex, [email protected] [email protected] the Colverwell graves, Glenburn or Clive Hurlstone 0407 783 422, Mid week walk in conjunction wim homestead and Collier's homestead, 1 [email protected] CBC and FBI. Details to be advised we will also visit some 'new sites: old Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, by email or contact leader. sheep yards and plunge dip; ruins of Tharwa at 9:15 am or at Yankee Hat John Coppin's homestead and 'Argyle'; site of an old copper mine. carpark at 10:00 am. Work in the 30 Sept - 2 October Pack Walk For those who do not feel up to the Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Area Gulf and Nungar Plains full walk, arrangements can be made replanting, weeding etc. Tools Maps: Tantangara and Denison for a shorter walk, with the sites to be provided. 1:25 000 visited depending, in part, on their Grading: 2 A/B particular interests. Leader: David Large 10 September, Sunday Walks Meet at Kingston Railway Station at Contact: 6291 4830 or The Great Australian Bushwalk 8.30am. Drive 50km, $18 a car. The NPA will be hosting a number of [email protected] 14 October Saturday Work Party walks for the GAB again this year. A joint walk with KHA. Easy walking Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group See the NPA website for information around the Gulf and Nungar Plains. Contact: Syd Comfort 62862578, or visit the National Great Australian Opportunity to visit a number of huts [email protected] Bushwalk website that survived the 2003 fires. Start from or Clive Hurlstone 0407 783 422, www.areataustralianbushwalk.ora. near Tantangara Dam and visit aui Townsend's Hut and go on to Peden's [email protected] Hut, camp on the Murrumbidgee with Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, side trip to Love Nest in the Salleys. Tharwa at 9:15 am or a Yankee Hat 16 September, Saturday Walk Then follow the boundary track over carpark at 10:00 am. Work in the Shanahans Falls Creek Jadar Mount down to Brayshaws Hut Gudgenby Bush Regeneration area Leader: Martin Chalk and on to Gavels Hut. We will go Grading: 2 B/C replanting, weeding etc. Tools across to Schofields Hut and return to Map: Colinton 1:25 000 i provided. cars via Circuits Hut. This is a Contact: 62684864(w), pleasant and easy walk mostly on 62923502(h) or 15 October, Sunday Walk track and repeats the autumn walk. [email protected] A Black Mountain Spring Hopefully there will be more water Meet at the Namadgi Visitor Centre at Wildflower Celebration and more scope for camps. There will 8:30 am. Start walk at the Mt Clear Leaders: Gwyn and Geoff Clarke be campfires. Please advise interest by camp ground. Proceed north east Contact: Jean Geue 6251 1601, across the southern ridges of 28 September to allow transport to be [email protected] Shanahans Mountain and on to the arranged. Meet 9.15-9:30am at the stile off secluded valley of Shanahans Falls Belconnen Way just before Caswell creek for an early lunch. Apart from 1 October, Sunday Walk Drive corner (immediately after the the odd briar, there is very little sign Brindabella National Park first road-works sign) the walk will of human disturbance in this quiet Leader: PatMiethke finish around 12:30pm. This is the location. Scramble out of the valley to Grading: 2A-D/F. 35th year of the the east to inspect Demandering Hut Map: Umburra 1: 25 000 Burbidge/Chippendale traditional and note any work that might needed. Contact: 6241 2798 or social ramble to enjoy the spring The return to the camp ground can be [email protected] flowerings and to learn more about the either via the fire trail or along the The plan is to drive to the Baldy incredible diversity of our Black ridge depending on the wishes of the Range Fire Trail, then gallop down to Mountain plants. Lead by Gwyn and group. 160km drive, $48 per car. Mountain Creek and up onto the ridge Geoff Clarke an invitation has gone between Mountain Creek and out to members of the Native Plants California Creek where stands of Society, University of the 3rd age and a4 September, Sunday Walk grevilleas and acacias are recovering Friends of Aranda Bushlands. Bring Long Flat since the fires. We may follow the your friends, your enthusiasm, Leader: Steven Forst ridge and creek to Top Crossing and morning tea, water, hat sunblock and Grading: 3 A walk back to the cars via Doctors Flat stout shoes. Map: ACT 1:100 000 Road. This is Gosta Lynga's standard Contact: 6219 5236(w) or walk, but anything is possible on the 21-22 October, Pack Walk 6251 6817(h) or day. I expect it could be pretty steep Mt Kelly Steven .forst@acma. gov, au and rough, but the distance is Leader: Steven Forst Meet at the Kambah Village Shops at moderate. Meet at Kambah Village Grading: 3 AB 8.00 am. Walk from the Mt Clear Shops at 8.30 am. Drive 80 kms, $28 Map: ACT 1:100 000 Camping ground along the Grassy per car. Creek fire trail then through to Long Contact: 6251 6817(h) or Flat. Possible climb on to the Clear [email protected] Range for views south east over 8 October, Sunday Walk A walk to Mt Kelly for views over Bredbo. The walk is on fire trails, GleribumarKlBiirtxDngHJstrjrt southern Namadgi and the Bimberi grassy areas and light bush. 150 km Grading: 2 A/B wilderness area. Start from the Yankee drive $45 per car. Leader: Col McAlister Hat car park and go over the Contact: 6288 4171 Gudgenby saddle and on to a campsite on Sam's Creek. Visit Mt Kelly next

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — SEPTEMBER 2006 - JANUARY 2007 day without packs then pack up camp 11 November Saturday Work Party firetrail, but involves around 400m and walking out. Drive: 140 km, Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group climb, including some steps. Meet at $50 per car Contacts: Syd Comfort 62862578, 9.00am at the carpark of the now non­ [email protected] existent Cotter pub. 22 October, Sunday Walk or Clive Hurlstone 0407 783 422, Mulligan's Flat [email protected] 22 November, Wednesday Walk Leader: Jacqui Cole Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, Leader: Philip Gatenby Grading: 2 A Tharwa at 9:15 am or a Yankee Hat Contact: 6254 3094 Map: Umburra 1: 25 000 carpark at 10:00 am. Work in the Mid week walk in conjunction with Contact: 6262 2152 or Gudgenby Bush Regeneration area CBC and FBI. Meet at Kambah [email protected] replanting, weeding etc. Tools Village shops at 8.30am. Aim for a 9am start — meeting at the provided. Gundaroo Road carpark — not sure of 25 November Saturday Walk the route that I will take yet but it will Horse Gully and Demandering include the quartz ridge (a terrific s 12 November Sunday Work Party Huts specimen), the historic shearing shed >' Brayshaws to Westermans Leader: Steven Forst and the Dam. Bird people should bring > Leader: Philip Gatenby Contact: 6219 5236 or their binocs as there will be plenty of ' Contact: 6254 3094 [email protected] bird life at the dam as well as a lovely This work party continues from that in Meet Kambah village shops at 8:30 carpet of spring flowers. Not an ' October and will also involve a < am. A walk to check on the condition energetic walk but an enjoyable one. reconnaissance for new plants. The of Demandering and Horse Gully Huts And don't forget the cameras. area will be around Brayshaw's and ^ in southern Namadgi. The walk from • Westerman's huts. Again, all tools and s the Mt Clear campground is mainly on fire trail but also includes some animal 25 October, Wednesday Walk ^' equipment are provided, just bring an paths along the creek. There are Leader: Steven Forst ' appetite for looking and weeding. ' several creek crossings to be made Contact: 6251 6817 or email Meet at the Namadgi Visitors' Centre - along the way that might be wet if we [email protected] ' at 9:00am. Drive: 160km, $57 per car. have some rain. Drive: 160km, S57 Mid week walk in conjunction with per car. CBC and FBI. Details to be advised by email or contact leader. y \/ \/ \s \./ v* \/ \jr \f s.' s/ \s v \s s, \ 18 November Saturday Work Party 26 November, Sunday Walk Naas Creek area Mt Morgan 28 October Saturday Work Party V- Leader: Max Lawrence Leader: Steve Hill Brayshaw's to Westermans Contact: 6288 1370 Grading: 3 A/E Leader: Martin Chalk 'y This work party will be a continuation > Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25 000

Contact: 62684864(w) ..\ of the 1 April work party, and is a part N Contact: 6231 9186 or 62923502(h) y of the NNP task to rid the Naas Creek [email protected] This work party will involve the v. of woody weeds. The area of ', With a snowy, windy front putting «• operation will be down-stream of the removal of Broom in the area between paid to the scheduled early May visit ^, Mt Clear campground and will involve Brayshaw's and Westerman's huts. to the second highest mountain in the cutting and dabbing of briars and ,'- The location of the Broom plants is Brindies, here is another chance to see V blackberry. If time permits, we will some fabulous sights from one of the known to NNP rangers and the duty ; / also move upstream from the Boboyan >' most spectacular mountain tops in the ranger will assist the group to locate y Rd. in a reconnaissance of the creek >; region, including over much of the them. All tools and equipment will be y, banks. All tools and equipment will be KNP and Namadgi National Park. We provided, just bring an appetite to y provided, just bring an appetite for •[ climb up the Lone Pine trail before sweep the area. Meet at Namadgi y; weed control. Meet at the Namadgi turning left, towards the summit at Visitor Centre at 9:00am. Drive: V. Visitors' Centre at 9:00am. Drive: some high alpine frosty hollows. We 160km $57 per car. Corin Dam Cotter Reserve and Mt mainly on track and no serious bush Leader: Barbara Edgar McDonald bashing is involved. Meet at Kambah Grading: 3 A/B Leader: Max Lawrence Village Shops car park at 7.30 for a Map: Corin Dam 1:25 000 Grading: 2A fabulous day. It won't snow in late Contact: 6230 5685 or Map: Cotter Dam 1:25 000 [email protected] Contact: 6288 1370, November will it? Distance Meet at the Kambah Village Shops at [email protected] 210km: $75 per car. 8.30 am. From Corin Dam we have a A circuit walk around some of the new long ascent to Stockyard Spur and walking tracks at the Cotter, with a 27 to 28/29 November then along the ridge to join the Mount side trip to Mt McDonald. Walk takes Midweek Pack-Walk Franklin Road. We follow the road in the Cotter caves, Paddy's River, Morton NP - Danjera / south past Prior's Hut and, after about Cotter campground, Stoney Creek Bundundah Creek Area 2 km, turn to follow the track to the Nature Reserve, Grass Tree Lookout, Map - Sassafras 1:25,000 top of Mt Gingera for fabulous views. old mine sites and trout hatchery ruins. Grading: 2/C/D Return via the same route. 900 m Excellent views of Cotter Dam and Leader: Mike Smith 6286 2984 climb. 90 km drive $32 per car. Murrumbidgee. All on track and [email protected]

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM SEPTEMBER 2006 - JANUARY 2007 A 4 or 5-day, 3 or 4-night midweek Afternoon tea in Jindabyne. Cbntac't Contact 6281 07-19 (ff) or pack-walk for those not gainfully1 leader in advance. Distance 420km: [email protected] employed (retirees, between jobs, $150 per car plus Park entry fee. Depart 6.45 ;am Wanniassa Shops, beachcombers, etc) and others Langdon Ave (cnr Rylah Cr, opp. Red (escaping from work) in the Boolijah, 9 December Saturday Rooster). Drive 5 km south of Danjera, Bundue dah creeks area of Work Party and Christmas Party Thredbo to D^ad Hbrse Gap. Follow Morton NP. Pack walking generally in Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group Australian Alps Walking Track mornings, camp by lunch and Contact: Syd Comfort 6286 2578, (Cascade Trail) via Crackenback afternoons for exploring, swimming or River and Bhbs Ridge i to Cascade [email protected] relaxing. Scrub bashing, cliff-line j Creek. Lunch imong snowgums at the or Clive Hurlstone 0407! 783 422, scrambling and climbs of 300-m much-loved hut. Feral horse area. A [email protected] involved. Contact leader in November couple of steep climbs in the 17 km Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, (away Sept/Oct) and at least a week walk but gre^t views 6f Chimneys Tharwa at 9.15 am or Yankee Hat car before the event for more details Ridge and Rjams Head Range and park at 10.00am Work in the and/or to book in. Numbers limited. chance to check recovery after 2003 1 regeneration area in thei morning. Final few km of access requires 4wd fires. Afterncon tea in Jindabyne. vehicles. Around 400-kms, $144 per Tools will be provided. Stay on for a Drive: 420km' $150 per car, plus Park car. 1 Christmas Party lunch which will be entry fee for vehicles without a pennit. provided and enjoyed in thfe shade of the regenerating trees: The afternoon 29 November Wednesday Walk 14 January 2007 Sunday Walk will conclude with' a leisurely check Leader: David Large 1 Place: Southern Ramshead on the progress of some of the recently Map: Perisher Valley 1:25 000 Contact: 62S1 4830 or ' 1 planted areas. j egraldfajbiggond .com.au Grading: 2 A/C Mid week walk in1 conjunction with Leader: Brian Slee Contact: 6281 0719(h) or CBC and FBI. Details to be advised 10 December Sunday i I t. [email protected] by email or contact leader. ' Depart Wannjiassa '• Shops, Langdon NPA Christmas ^arty Ave (cnr Rylah Cr, opp. Red Rooster) 3 December! Sunday Walk 6.30am. Park at ' Charlotte Pass. Tate West Ridge 1 \ Venue: Orroral Valley Descend to and cross Snowy River, Leader: Brian Slee Contact: NPA committee climb Mt'Clarke, contour south of Mt This year we plan to hold our Grading: 3 A/B . , Northcote and climb Muellers Peak Christmas Party at Orroral Valley. All Map: Mt Kosciusko| 1:50 000 (latter optional). After break, descend the usual features. We 'will hold a Contact: 62S1 07-J9j(h)or j to Lake Albina for 'lunch. Return via short walk to see fhe Orroral [email protected] Northcote Pass and Club' Lake Creek. homestead and the river. Meet Wanniassa Shops (cnr Langdon Great views, wildflowers. Several Details will be in the next Bulletin and Ave and Rylah Cres. opp.Red steep climbi. Afternoon tea Burning Issues. Rooster) at 6:45 am. Park at Guthega Jindabyne. Book with leader as and walk up Guthega Ridge towards weather check essential. Numbers the Rolling Grounds. Cross Windy 17 December Sunday Day Walk limited. Returh distance: 420 km Cost Creek north of Conisatt Stephen Pass! Grading: 3 A per car: $150plu s Park entry fee for and continue up TJate West Ridge. Teddy's Hut vehicles without entry permit. Visit various rocky outcrops along the Grading: 3 A/B broad ridge, stopping for lunch at a Map: Chimneys Ridge 1:25 000 daisy meadow on the way. Panoramic Leader: Brian Slee views. Some steepish climbs.

2006 Great Australian Bushvialk ' "I 2nd prize in each State/Territot ' ' ' Sea to Summit ETELLE Bulhwalldrjg PadJ: National Members Includes a. Wilderness Equipment'Echo Competition SEA TD SUMMIT backpack, Blade Diamond Trail Poles, Sea to Summit Quagmire teaiters,Rlbar d Hat and set Jolnusand WINF of 3 Stuff Sacks ana1 Biidgedale Ttekfcerisocks. Jo|n as a new| member of any Great] Australian Biishwalk Value $692 per jiack orfianisatioH before 31 October 2006 forytiur ichanc e j ! toWIN an arrtizing World Expeditions8i Da y Larapinta ' trd ize in each State/Territory Trek for two (value $3,590) or atiie bushwalking , przesftoinSe^ to Summit, Siva and Rockpdrt A Silva Compass and Headlamp Set jj Gal cut th in^ Inductee a Sifja 1ST IF anger Compass, Uf < to $S,OTjd worth of prizes to be wbriIR F EACH STATE/TERRITORY. ; Sitwa Headlamp!j& capLlfalue $255 ppr set National 1st prize 4Ui prize in each State/Temtory Expet):ition s 8 Day I Larapinta WORLD ™>nd 1 expeditions Trek (Centra.' Australia) for 2 people! ijpair of Rotkpo[t!Wal|ng Shjo^si 1 Value $250 per pair '" Value! $359(3 ! \\- !"! 11 ! •' I I

Participation \n a GAB walk notrequired'forenny—justjdnasah&wp^br\ ' For full coftfpetitron terms and conditions And information on membership of your local GAB organisation ! visit vwm.grvatausnaiianbushwalk.org.au or call NPA NSW02 92990000

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — SEPTEMBER 2006 - JANUARY 2007 In the Heart of the Budawangs [Best read in conjunction with Endrick map 1:25,000]

Hoddles Castle lies to the west of some of the more famous landmarks of the Budawangs and forms a' northern projection of Mount Hoddle. The three sides of the castle consist of extensively weathered sandstone. It was named in 1828 by the surveyor Robert Hoddle (of Melbourne fame), who also named The Castle around this time and seems to have been the first European to explore the Budawangs (The Budawangs Committee 1982, Pigeon House and Beyond, Eastwood). The plan for the walk was to camp two nights near Hoddles Castle. This would give us (my companions were Brian, Judith, Mark, Neville and Tim) a full day to explore without heavy packs. Our campsite was beside Sallee Creek, south-east of Fosters Mountain, and the first day of the walk was spent the track to its crossing of Styles Creek, Sunday morning was still and getting there. Water can be guaranteed a beautiful spot beneath the towering sparkling. A larger group now and as here in most years and Hoddles Castle cliffs of Quiltys Mountain. Near the we walked northwards on the old is in easy striking distance. Setting out crossing an ill-defined foot track runs vehicular track all the surrounding from the Nerriga entrance to Morton mainly southwards. It passes below mountains were in view. Our track ran National Park the first hour of the walk Pagoda Rock and makes its way along between Quiltys Mountain and Fosters was along a firetrail (Alum Creek the base of the cliffs on the eastern side Mountain through forest where many Track) in warm and humid conditions. of Mt Haughton before heading to decaying moss-encrusted stumps About 200 metres into the walk we Mt Tarn and beyond. We stayed on this signified previous logging. An hour passed a recently installed (within the track until reaching, wet and from camp we reached the Square Top last year) gate near the track's crossing bedraggled, a large overhang on Mountain Track which we followed for of an old water race. Flattened shrubs Mt Haughton's southern side. Later, we about a kilometre. To avoid private and churned earth showed that vehicles continued along the base of the cliffs. property we left this firetrail near were already being driven around the Progress was slow as patches of thick Round Mountain for the crossover to gate. Further on, on the northern side of scrub and large boulders had to be the Alum Creek Track and the end of a flat-topped hill (called Flat Top negotiated as we almost circumnav­ the walk. This part of the walk involved Mountain) we turned east off the igated Mt Haughton before rejoining three creek crossings. At the second firetrail and after a short descent the track and returning to the campsite. creek we stopped for lunch in a crossed Running Creek, which wasn't Soon after reaching the tents Steven, picturesque clearing formed by the doing anything of the sort, and almost who had spent the day walking in from confluence of a number of side creeks. trod on a snake out in the mom ing sun. the Nerriga entrance, arrived. The clearing seemed popular with feral Running Creek was followed for pigs and in places looked to have been several kilometres in a south-easterly rotary-hoed. Shortly after climbing up direction, then after lunch we climbed out of the third creek, Running Creek, over a ridge, crossed another firetrail we disturbed a pair of glossy-black (the Square Top Mountain Track) and cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus lathami). dropped into the headwaters of Sallee Their crimson tail feathers were Creek. The walk took us to the south of prominent as they flew from the both Square Top Mountain and Fosters casuarinas abundant on the ridge top we Mountain, through a range of were crossing. The firetrail was a short vegetation types, including low scrub of distance west of the ridge. By mid- various thicknesses and swampy afternoon the cars were a welcome grassland. Eventually we joined an old sight. AH in all an enjoyable walk vehicular track, now considerably through some spectacular country, even overgrown, and set up the tents where though Saturday's weather thwarted our this track crosses Sallee Creek. attempt to climb Hoddles Castle. The weather on the next day was more typical of the Budawangs — Philip Gatenby misty and drizzling. As we made our way towards Hoddles Castle the showers became heavier and more Photo top. Hoddles Castle frequent and thoughts of climbing wet Photo left. Styles Creek and Quiltys slippery sandstone in mist and rain Mountain were abandoned. Instead we stayed on Photos Philip Gatenby Easter walk to Mount Gingera The frost hollows, bogs, and the old survey marker lower hills were dun coloured indicating the border and khaki. Ranges on the between NSW and the ACT. horizon wore subdued blues Just before we reached and olives. The once lovely Pryor's Hut, Sonja, Kevin, majestic gums on the road up Dave, and I (although to a to Bulls Head were looking lesser extent), were seized moth eaten, dusters missing wim an energy impulse to more than a few feathers. remove as many pine This was my first visit to wildings as possible. Colin, the Brindabellas since the all of 20-something, sat on 2003 fires and it was Easter the edge of the road and said Saturday 2006. Dave, Colin, rather disparagingly 'Just and I joined Kevin and Sonja like kids in a playground!' for a walk up to Mt Gingera. 'Why don't you come and do It was Kevin's first walk up to your bit for The Cause, Col?' Gingera and he, the eternal 'Na, live and let live' was his optimist, was bubbling over slick response. with enthusiasm about the As we followed the road regeneration. back to the cars, we noticed Comparisons with earlier large turning circles, big, visits to the top of the rather messy ones. At the Brindabellas left me feeling tumoff to the Stockyard spur despondent. The alpine track, we saw a pink balloon. freshness had gone and the Bush birthday party? Not area was looking faded and likely. Probably a marker for jaded, although comparing the the proposed Stockyard Spur April vista with random firetrail. memories of other months At the NPA Namadgi forum, may have been unfair. one of the speakers had Anyway, after parking our spoken of the steep terrain as cars near the Ginini gate, we being unsuitable for a fire headed off down the hill along trail. He also mentioned the a faint track to Cheyenne high cost involved in swamp. The day was overcast building one. How will the and chilly and we were glad to ACT government, strapped get moving. for cash, meet the cost of The sphagnum bogs carried Firetrail 'upgrading?' near Mt Gingera. building and maintaining notices at intervals, explaining Photos Judy Kelly firetrails and minimising that regeneration work was erosion in the sensitive being undertaken post fire. The bogs of the walk. The track up is eroding and subalpine environment? The aerial were dry, and grass and sedges seemed Kevin was muttering darkly that it'd be approach is the more modem and cost to be taking over. better if resources were spent on track efficient way to go in such terrain. We followed the Flats before maintenance as well as on checking a Back to the cars just in time, as descending to a copse of conifers, the hut. lighting forked to the west, thunder remnants of an aboretum, on the edge We finally reached the rocks on the rolled, and a welcome deluge followed. of a gully. A long and gradual ascent, top of Gingera with their crackling As we drove towards Mt Franklin we pushing through Dampiera and lichen and stunted snow gums while to passed 20 cyclists. We wondered if Prostanthera bushes, returned us to the the east, we could see the faded looking they'd be bedding down in Pryor's Hut road and we started feeling the sun's hills and flats. One of my last walks up and if bikes were allowed past the warmth as it broke through the clouds. pre-fire, had been with Steven Hill, Ginini gate in what we thought was a Once up at the road we continued to when everything was uncom­ wilderness designated area. We later Pryor's Hut, mellow and gloomy, but promisingly fresh alpine and subalpine, found out they were permitted there. welcome in a homey way. As we had with the sparkle of moisture and In a way it was good to return to lunch outside, a ranger drove up to beautiful twisted gums on Brumby Ginini and Gingera. What chance does check the hut, stopped a few minutes Flats, to the west of Gingera's summit. it have of retaining its alpine and for a chat and then returned towards Colin dived into his day pack and subalpine character and its precious Ginini. distributed Easter eggs as we looked biodiversity in the face of climate Heading up to Mt Gingera, we west over to Tantangara Dam, nearby change and the possible onslaught of crossed the small stream that was at a plains, and the Main Range. firetrails? pretty low ebb. Would winter rain and Clouds were starting to build up so Judy Kelly snow give it a much needed boost and we followed Gingera's ridge back how much of each would we get this towards Ginini. The fire had hit this year? area, leaving charcoal trunks and About six walkers passed us on their branches wim leaves bravely emerging. way down, testimony to the popularity We passed a line of granite boulders, Nature conservation starts in our own backyards While many of us think primarily working to improve our of national parks and other urban environments. reserves as our jewels of nature The group believes conservation, we often forget that in the importance of conservation starts in our own education and public backyards. Rachelle McConville, Waterwatch and Frogwatch engagement as avenues Coordinator for the Ginninderra to advance the Catchment Group, discusses the community's awareness successes and challenges of of environmental issues, working towards nature and to initiate and conservation in an urban maintain sustainable catchment. behaviour change in individuals. The urban Landcare ethic provides Sustainability and nature con­ Planting at the McKellar Wetland 'frog highway'. servation in an urban setting engaging activities and valuable education about natural and Frogwatch Program. In 2005 over The idea of nature conservation ecological values. By supporting people 200 volunteers participated in our conjures up images of untouched to care for their own backyards and annual Frogwatch Census, and wilderness, vast areas of native neighbourhoods, we believe we can monitored local frog populations at vegetation and rich diversity of generate a wider sphere of awareness over 140 sites. Participants in this fun wildlife, and of the many highly that will have flow-on effects for our program learn about local frog species, publicised fights for the protection of whole landscape, especially with their habitat needs, threats to their national parks, wild rivers and respect to the attitude and level of survival and ways to help conserve frog threatened species. Whilst we do not engagement of the community at large. wish to undermine the importance of populations. Frogwatch volunteers also While our urban environments may protecting areas specifically for nature collect important information about the not offer the rich diversity of some of conservation, the Ginninderra abundance and species diversity of our our better protected areas, smart urban Catchment Group is working towards local frog populations, and the data will management can provide significant changing our way of minking about our help to identify future community areas of habitat for a range of suburbs and urban areas, so that they monitoring and action priorities that Australian flora and fauna. Many of the too can become areas that we can will create a healthier Upper environmental problems apparent in our appreciate for their natural values. Murrumbidgee catchment. national parks and nature reserves are The Ginninderra Catchment Group directly related to is always looking for more members individual behaviour in our who would like to assist with any of our '?*T suburbs. For example, the activities. For more information about - introduction and spread of our programs, or to register your many weed species can interest, please contact our office on: stem from some of our 6278 3309 or "favourite" garden plants [email protected]. that have gone bush. The Ginninderra Catchment Group For more than a decade, is an umbrella group of Landcare, Landcare, Waterwatch and Waterwatch and Frogwatch volunteers Frogwatch volunteers from in the Belconnen, Gungahlin and Hall the group have been areas. The primary focus of the group is contributing large amounts the advancement of the health of the of their time and energy to Ginninderra Catchment through restore, maintain and effective engagement with government improve as much of the agencies, business and the catchment McKellar Wetland—an example of quality habitat in natural setting as possible community. The group has strong an urban setting. Photos Rachelle McConville within the Ginninderra commitment to community education catchment. The main and capacity building and seeks to Our urban areas are highly modified activities of our volunteers include: create diverse opportunities for people environments where much native • revegetation of open spaces and and their local communities to become vegetation has been cleared, buildings nature parks with native grasses, involved in catchment management and roads dominate the landscape, and shrubs and trees; decision making and on-ground action. the hydrological regime has been • Waterwatch monitoring, including Projects of the Ginninderra drastically altered. Urban areas are also water quality and macro- Catchment Group are funded by the where most of our population actually invertebrates; ACT Government and the Australian lives, and the impacts of stormwater • Frogwatch monitoring of frog Government's Natural Heritage Trust pollution, weeds, feral pests, erosion, species and abundance; and poor water quality, changed flow the National Landcare Program and the • removal of woody weeds and other ACT Government Environment Grants. regimes and loss of native vegetation weed species. all take their toll. These issues present One of our most popular volunteer many challenges for volunteers who are activities is the ACT and Region NPA ACT news Bird Book Gets New Wings! NPA meeting. Surely the meetings We have also received a letter from could be held in a more central location Chris Watson, a long-time member, The NPA ACT has produced a revised such as the churches centre in Civic, or querying the article in the March edition of its popular Field Guide to the Gorman House. Bulletin [Vol 43/1, March 2006] on Birds of the ACT. Written by McComas Similarly, one can usually get in to arboreta; Chris writes: Taylor and illustrated by Nicholas Day the Woden bus interchange or in to the field guide is a great companion for I am concerned that die NPA Bulletin Civic by the time the bushwalk car pool rambles in the local region. has given a page written by one Alan sets off, but one cannot get to Kambah The revision to the field guide Brown, extolling the virtues of arboreta, Shops by that time by bus, and Deeks and, moreover, giving publicity to an coincided with a major review by the Road in the Weston Creek 'pine forest' CSIRO of the taxonomy of Australia's organisation. Friends of ACT Arboreta is not served by busses. Then again, (FACTA). birds and has been able to incorporate other bushwalks meeting places are As arboreta are made up of species the latest scientific and common names places like Queanbeyan, or Namadgi from all over the world, my feeling is for our local species. Park HQ etc. This assumes mat that it does not lie within the Many thanks to Clive Hurlstone, everyone has a car, or does not have to Association's 'Aims and Objectives', Sonja Lenz, David Pfanner and Rod share his car with any oUier family which promote our own native flora Griffiths for their editorial input. The members. Some clubs not only have a and fauna. book retails at $19.95 and has a special central meeting place but they do not Also, the aim of local arboreta was, member's price of $16.00. Orders can use private cars for their hikes. They and possibly still is, to find plantation be placed by contacting the hire a bus or mini bus. This avoids species; the widespread monocultures NPA ACT's office. maintenance on private cars and avoids of radiata pine (mentioned on p 14) are unnecessary petrol consumption and a biological disaster, in my view! pollution. Yerrabi Track brochure Far better for the NPA to encourage A new brochure for the Yerrabi Track Barrie Ridgway articles that restore our native has been prepared by the Environment woodlands and grasslands. Surely our ACT in conjunction with NPA. It is Some well-earned praise to knowledge and passion for the flora and now available and can be downloaded fauna of reserves, and national parks, from the NPA web site. keep us on our toes! ... should extend to the rehabilitation of I'd like to congratulate and praise the our landscape, as a whole, with Vale Olive and Ian NPA for running such a well organised indigenous species appropriate to each and enthusiastic conference on location. Since our last Bulletin two long­ Namadgi National Park. I'm not a great standing NPA life members, Olive conference goer preferring to quietly Our Secretary, Sony a, has replied Buckman and Ian Currie, have passed compose another chapter, muse in the to Chris pointing out that NPA away. Tim Walsh, Adrienne Nicolson, sun or be on another journey, but the strongly supports revegetation with and Gary Thompson have prepared two sessions I attended were most native species saying: tributes (see separate articles). impressive. The hall was almost full, I sympathise with your concern about the speakers were erudite and arboreta being non-native plantings and New Outings convenor entertaining, the visuals had the usual that NPA should promote our own Mike Smith has taken over as Outings technical glitches and the questions native flora and fauna. I believe that on Convenor from Steven Forst; he can be were curly. The rest of the conference a whole we do, and mat die Bulletin reached at [email protected]. appeared to cover everything there was reflects that attitude. For instance, the Note that any interested members are to know, hear and see about Namadgi. Bulletin has published several articles welcome to contribute to the outings Most of it should go in a book (I'll help over the last decade on the removal of program which is prepared quarterly. distribute it). the Boboyan Pine Plantation and its New leaders and walks are always It seems that after almost fading revegetation with local species. welcome. away a few years ago me NPA has had However, in our aims and objectives we a blood transfusion of mammoth do have 'cultural heritage* as being proportions. The journal is fatter, worthwhile conserving, which is the Letters committee positions are being filled status of the Bendora Arboretum. Walks transport very readily and there is gutsy enthusiasm in the air. As well someone Dogs and cats A member has written to query NPA obviously has a direct conduit to the walks transport arrangements; one Canberra Times. The spread on 1/5/06, We have also had feedback about for the Outings Committee! especially the photos by Martin Chalk Kevin's article in the last Bulletin. As petrol prices rise, and will continue and Kevin McCue, was a beauty. I Vince writes (inpart); to rise, I wonder whether the NPA is loved the balancing rock and the The NPA does great work in ensuring doing its best not only to help to reference tree. One reason for this new that the national parks and reserves in combat that, but also to do its bit to vigour is obviously the big bum of and around the ACT are protected. combat unneeded pollution, and at the 2003. It has released epicormic shoots However, \ am greatly concerned same time help those without a car or in the human genus as well as the with the June Bulletin article by ex- those couples or families with only one eucalypt. president Kevin McCue titled 'The ca, to attend NPA meetings and Don't stop now. bush in our backyard'and in particular bushwalks. NPA meetings are held " We hoped it survived the 'miles away' from bus routes, and it is Klaus Hueneke neighbourhood cats and dogs impossible to get home by bus after an ... and a member's concern (Continued on page 15) Canberra International Arboretum and Gardens Jocelyn Plovits, Senior Manager meaning of a public garden in the 21st It is hoped that development of the within the Chief Minister's century, growing out of the issues of arboretum will be facilitated by the Department, was guest speaker at sustainability, biodiversity and public involvement of the community partly the association's July general environmental concern. The design of through a volunteers program but also meeting and gave a very the arboretum is based around the by direct cooperation with community comprehensive address on the 100 forest plots, each of one hectare, groups. One such plan is in hand with Canberra International Arboretum separated by wide alleys. Entry is to be the Southern Tablelands Ecological and Gardens. along the existing underpass beneath Project (STEP) and involves a planting Tuggeranong Parkway into an open within the arboretum to link up with an The area on the west side of the space in the central valley leading to existing remnant woodland across the Tuggeranong Parkway now being garden terraces and to Dairy Farmers border of the arboretum. In the longer developed for the arboretum had been Hill for extensive views over Canberra. term the arboretum may be in a position part of a pine plantation that was The challenge facing the to make economic benefit from seed destroyed in the 2003 bushfires. The development of the garden is to collected from plantings. proposal to use the area for an embody the following aspects: To be effective as an economic arboretum was put forward in the • the arboretum is to be a community multiplier the arboretum would need to post-2003 bushfire study "Options and asset; attract visitors from outside the ACT: Opportunities for Non-Urban ACT' • the development is to be a legacy to internal visitation would not have this published in August 2003: endure into the future; effect. The arboretum is considered to The remnant stand of Himalayan • there is to be provision for research have the potential to encourage visitors cedars on the slopes above the and education; to spend extra time in the Territory and Tuggeranong Parkway and the cork • there is to be a contribution to thus bring benefits to the local oak plantation near Glenloch maintaining biodiversity; economy. The hotel indicated on the Interchange have given rise to the • the garden will demonstrate sensitive site plan is clearly not a realistic proposal by the Steering Committee water and bushfire management; and proposal at present but this or some to rehabilitate the eastern slopes of • operate as an economic multiplier. other facility could be considered when Dairy Farmers Hill and the Green Expert advice is being tapped in the it becomes commercially attractive. Hills ridge as an international In her presentation Jocelyn arboretum. selection of tree species. It is important that the trees be able to survive on the emphasized the long-term nature of the The 250 hectare site offered unique site; not more than 10 per cent may be project and the willingness of the opportunities for redevelopment in this irrigated. Plantings will not be limited management to be flexible in its role being located near the middle of to Australian natives; a repetition of the progress and to take account of the city but unavailable for suburban Botanic Gardens is not sought. Initially emerging developments. The 2006 development as it was within the sight plantings will be from seeds and plant program involves some earthworks, lines of the Parliamentary Triangle. The material available in Australia but it is securing trees and ground covers and notion of an international arboretum intended to use imports mainly in the the planting of trees — a start on six derived from the original Griffin plan forms of seeds and cloning material forests is planned. A similar program is which incorporated an arboretum based rather than tree seedlings. Genetic envisaged for 2007. Maintenance of the on areas representing each of the conservation of threatened species is an site, including weed and erosion world's continents. important role of the plantings. control, will continue to be an Following a government decision to Water for the project is to be important commitment. One goal is to proceed with the arboretum a design sourced from an existing sewer line have some recognisable forest competition was announced in which runs under the site. Estimates plots established by the centenary year December 2004. From the 45 entries an indicate that annual arboretum needs of2013. Australian proposal emerged as the will be met by the equivalent of two Jocelyn's address was supported by winner. Featuring 100 forests of days' flow in the sewer. The wide some wall-mounted displays of maps primarily threatened species the design alleys ninning through the site will and plans for the arboretum and by her was developed by landscape architects, assist fire management by separating frank answering of the many questions Taylor, Culluty and Lethlem, and treed areas and by allowing access raised by members. throughout. The variation in species architects, Tonkin, Zulaikha and Greer. Syd Comfort The concept was seen to offer the amongst the plantings is also expected opportunity to redefine the whole to slow the progress of any fire.

NPA ACT news ntinued from page 14) whose owners seem so happy to lives. Research shows that companion are also unfortunately responsible for a share these unwanted feral animals animals can assist people who are great deal of predation on native animals with us, and all their other recovering illness and can improve and birds, particularly in urban areas. neighbours." people's sense of well being. Companion animals are a great Vince Bagusauskas source of comfort and joy to a large percentage of suburban Australia. Kevin has replied to this letter pointing Owning a pet can enhance people's out that dogs and cats, while performing their companion animal role admirably, PARKWATCH

Velcro vector climbing reefs and pinnacles, rolling in (stretching from just north of Newcastle seagrass meadows with dugongs and to Forster) listed as sanctuaries. Ubiquitous Velcro may be an dolphins, relaxing in sponge gardens, (keep up to date with The environmental hazard. Scientists and and chasing schools of migrating tuna Wilderness Society's campaign by support staff arriving at Macquarie and swordfish. It truly is an incredible requesting a fortnightly email letter Island were subjected to a vacuum world that lies beneath the surface. from [email protected]) cleaner and forceps inspection by Unfortunately for our marine life, out of Wilderness News, Winter, 2006 botanists. Out of sixty-four staff only sight is also out of mind. twenty were clean. Between rbem the New South Wales has an amazing lemma Government's park other forty-four carried 981 seeds and variety of rare and unique wildlife. fruit belonging to ninety species. Seeds revocation proceeds However, in recent years mere has been were plucked from pockets, cuffs, In the last Journal, NPA raised a dramatic decline in both number and seams, socks and boots, but the great concerns about the revocation of a types of marine species. The major majority were attached to velcro 1,000 ha chunk of Bargo State decline in NSW ocean fisheries catches fasteners of clothing and gear. Conservation Area near Picton for a from over 27,000 tonnes in 1992/93, to shooting complex for seven shooting Some of the ninety species are around 10,000 tonnes in 2000/01 helps clubs centred on me site of an existing known to be highly invasive and would illustrate mis. Sadly, examples like this small shooting range. pose a threat to the island. The spread are plentiful. of alien speties irito other lands is The legislation passed through Once a prolific deep-sea species, the second only to habitat loss as a cause Parliament in April with Opposition Eastern Gemfish was fished into near for declining biodiversity. support. This is the largest park oblivion in the 1980s. Meanwhile, Field Natter, May 2006 revocation in NSW over the last snapper catches that were 20 years. Open space protected 731 kilograms in September 1972, The Government failed to formally declined to 101 kilograms in September The ACT Planning and Land consult with NPA [NSW] about the 1979, and reached a pitiful nine Authority's Open Space Network plan. Minister for Sport and Recreation, kilograms in September 1995. Project has concluded with planning Sandra Nori, who steered the Recreational fishing is also taking protection, or enhanced protection for revocation through Parliament, did not its toll on our sea-life, taking the 248 open space areas. respond to NPA's written concerns. equivalent of 30% of the commercial Variation 165, giving effect to the There are no alternative mechanisms to catch. With a rapidly increasing protect the undisturbed bushland in the project's recommendations, was population along the entire NSW coast, recently tabled in the Legislative upper catchments of Rocky Waterholes there is a need to regulate the areas and Iron Creek from future Assembly. available for recreational fishing and The project involved a review of development now that they are under ensure proper management of our seas, shooting club management. Concerns more than 300 undeveloped or open so that our marine environment can be space areas around the ACT. about lead contamination of Sydney's enjoyed by generations to come. water supply were dismissed and sites Among the areas to gain additional The most practical solution to this outside the national park estate were protection are: decline in marine wildlife is to create not seriously looked at. • 6.5 ha of former Monash Drive road protected areas, free from fishing, NPA has written a letter of reservation in Campbell; called 'sanctuaries' in NSW. The complaint to Minister Nori. • 5.6 ha grassy woodland (the Conder World Conservation Union National Parks Journal, grassland moratorium site) adjoining recommends 20-30% of each marine June-July 2006 the north east edge of Conder; habitat be protected in this way. • 36 ha of buffer area known as Fisher Currently, less than 3% of the NSW Parks are for people - a comment parkland, between Fisher and marine environment is protected in The sentiment so succinctly stated Kambah; sanctuaries. in the above slogan has a long history. • 2.2 ha of native grassland adjoining Responding to public pressure, the In 1872 the world's first National Ginninderra Creek at Umbagong NSW Government has initiated the Park (Yellowstone) was established 'for District Park in Latham; creation of Marine Parks along the the benefit and enjoyment of the • 2.3 ha of unleased Community coastline. However, this does not go far people.' The same sentiment was Facility land associated wim the enough because in NSW, Marine Parks expressed in the NSW Parliamentary former Primary School, Section 78 remain open to multiple uses including Debates on Australia's first two Griffith; and fishing. Only in areas zoned as National Parks — Royal NP (1879) and • 0.2 ha of unleased Commercial land sanctuaries will sea life be properly Ku Ring Gai Chase NP (1894). at Block 3 Section 79 Giralang protected. (Local Centre). According to John Dorm an (an The recently created Batemans NPA NSW member), Raymond F Shape, Autumn, 2006 Marine Park and Port Stephens-Great Dasmann in his book, A Different Lakes Marine Parks are steps in the Plenty more fish in the sea? Country, published in 1970, says: right direction. However, the NSW needs marine sanctuaries Government is yet to announce how ' If Yellowstone is to be just another playground for city folk, let's not call it If humans were able to traverse much of these parks will provide real a National Park. National Parks have a NSW's marine environment as we can protection for our marine life. In primary responsibility towards the wild our terrestrial wilderness, we would response to this, The Wilderness creatures and landscapes within their find ourselves strolling along a Society Newcastle has launched a boundaries.' I assume mat the book was continental shelf that drops off into campaign to see 50% of the Port written in response to a campaign for grand canyons, scaling sea mounts, Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park more tourism facilities. PARKWATCH continued Only secondarily can 'Parks are for Logging of private forests is big also progressing. People' be accepted as a slogan for park business, 30% of all timber logged in The Web, Autumn, 2006 management. NSW comes from private forests Somewhere in the next decade the including rainforest and the remaining The tragedy of climate change slogan became anathema for NSW oldgrowth. in the high country Conservationists when an ultra Private forestry is most active in the For many years I have walked over conservative Minister thought it was a tall forests of north-eastern NSW, the the beautiful alpine ranges, peaks, high vote catcher, to the severe detriment to River Red Gum forests along the valleys and sloping fields in summer nature conservation. Fortunately his Murray River and the Cypress-Ironbark time. The white snow daisies are was a short tenure and many of the woodlands of central-western NSW. sometimes so dense that they look like NPWS staff in the Parks kept the faith. Two centuries of unconstrained fields of snow. Scattered about in The slogan has been used at times in logging in private forests in NSW has clumps and singly are yellow billy the 'correct' context, notably in the first seen many forests seriously degraded. buttons, white varying to purple four paragraphs of NPAQ's 'Policy on Those that have survived are under Euphrasia, yellow candle heaths, soft Tracks in National Parks (2001).' threat now. sphagnum moss by creeks and bogs and In an article in the NPA NSW www.nccnsw.org.au/June, 2006 yellow alpine Stackhousia. (I always Journal for June 2005, relating to the encourage my companions to kneel latest Plan of Management for Bilby national news round-up down to this ground hugging plant to Kosciuszko NP, the writer condemns Ngaanyatjarra Council Land smell its strong fragrant scent.) There is the increase of the number of official Management Unit is about to tough low growing alpine sunray with horse campsites from seven to 13, for commence a TSN-funded multi-species papery white petals and a sunny yellow the benefit of the 5 000 horse riders in monitoring project with Yamangu on centre, and in February the beautiful the non-winter season but to the Ngaanyatjarra lands in the Gibson white gentian take over on high snow detriment of the many other camp site Desert and Central Ranges bioregions. gross slopes. users who are expected to share the This work will include training in the There are many, many more of facilities. Sharing does not work in the use of cybertrackers to record bilby these lovely alpine and subalpine largest of the existing sites which (ninu) tracking information and habitat flowers. boasts of 500 riders per season and, in data, as well as the analysis of predator On the lower slopes we walk severe drought (Autumn 2002), had two scats to look at predation pressure on through forests of wonderfully shaped bare horse paddocks taking up more bilbies, marsupial moles, mulgara and and colourful snow gums. Snow grasses than half the site. the great desert skink (tiakura). grow everywhere except on the windy I have no objection to Norm Traves' In the Northern Territory, Warlpiri tops, the 'feldmark'. alternative slogan, 'Parks are for rangers from Yuendumu community Under all this during winter and Protection and People (NPA News, surveyed and monitored threatened summer live many small animals, April 2006). However, I prefer species including bilby (walpajirri) and which depend on the snow covering in 'National Parks are for People who great desert skink (warrama) at two the winter to quietly hibernate or forage Respect national park values.' control sites and one treatment site in for a little food, animals such as the [NSW} NPA News, May, 2006 the Tanami Desert. Twenty-two bilby pygmy possum and broad toothed rat. burrows and 57 great desert skink Forest giants still falling in NSW The spectacular little southern burrows were found at two of the corroboree frog of which now only a Many people believe that it is illegal surveyed sites. few remain in high valley has become to log rainforest or oldgrowth forest in Tracking results indicated that very endangered and at the moment is NSW. It's not true. approximately four foxes were living being helped long by laboratory There are more than 4 million within the area prior to baiting. With breeding. hectares of forests and woodlands on the help of the Parks and Wildlife All these little animals will be private land in NSW - equivalent to an Service a dingo proof fox baiting affected by climate change. area two-thirds the size of Tasmania - device was made. This device enabled A personal reminiscence by Heather that can be logged or clear felled baits to be delivered to foxes whilst Roy in National Parks Journal, without any meaningful environmental excluding dingos. Two rounds of April-May 2006 controls? baiting and monitoring track activity of Many of these forests are being bilbies and foxes, dingoes and cats will Compiled by Len Haskew logged right now - including rainforest be completed by autumn this year. and oldgrowth forests, creek banks and Six bilbies were released between gullies, endangered and vulnerable December and February into the plant communities, and habitat for Currawinya fenced enclosure in many threatened species, including Queensland, and 40 animals are Diary Dates Koalas, Squirrel Gliders and Barking planned to be progressively released by owls. the middle of 2006. Other Great Australian Bush Walk Uncontrolled firewood collection is reintroduction programs in South Sunday 10 September also having a devastating impact. Australia (Arid Recovery at Roxby Large old logs and dead trees that many Downs, Banrock Station, Yookamurra, threatened species need to survive are Thistle Island and Venus Bay), in 0WA ACT Christmas (party going up in smoke through the Western Australia (Project Eden at uncontrolled collection and burning of Shark Bay and Return to Dryandra), Sunday 10 Nimmitabel, Bemboka, Jindabyne, go too easily. So in congratulating favourite areas included Ravine, Bundanoon, etc for cakes and Ian on this well-deserved honour Bundanoon, Thredbo Diggings, particularly for pies!). we add that we hope our pipe- Bournda, Araluen, Wapengo. He was (Continued on page 19) Olive Buckman

Olive arrived in Canberra from England Antarctica itself. in October 1963 to take up the position In 1970 Olive joined the National of Director of the YWCA. This Parks Association of the ACT, although followed a career in welfare and she had walked with the Association as community work in post war England, a guest since 1963. She was soon asked Europe and the Middle East. by Secretary Sheila Kruse to respond to On arrival in Canberra Olive set requests to the Association for public about reviving the "Youth" element of speakers, and to supervise guides' and the YWCA. Here her vast experiences scouts' first aid and conservation days, staffing displays and conferences, working with teenagers were soon put awards. As well, Olive organised and giving talks on her travels to general to good use. Membership numbers at led hundreds of day walks (she meetings and frequently administering the YWCA increased rapidly. She did instigated mid-week walks) and longer first aid on walks. Olive was made a much to encourage Canberra youth to camping tours to the Flinders Ranges in life member of the NPA for her take up bushwalking, camping and 1976 and the Warrumbungles and enormous contribution to its activities. orienteering and to appreciate and care Carnarvon Gorge in 1977. In later years Olive lived a remarkable life — for the environment. Olive was also a keen member of the based on helping others in as many Her work did not prevent Olive Family Bushwalkers Inc. ways as possible and enjoying the pursuing her love of travel and wild Olive contributed significantly to natural environment to the full. She places. For example in 1970 she NPA activities by writing numerous died peacefully at Amity Nursing trekked in Nepal, in 1973 she rafted the articles for the Bulletin (including many Home, Aranda on 11 May 2006. Grand Canyon, in 1978 she trekked in pioneering ones on first aid in the Tim Walsh New Zealand, in 1980 the Andes and bush), leading holiday walks for ACT Patagonia and in 1991 and 1993 she Parks and Conservation, attending visited the sub-Antarctic Islands and working parties and Clean-up Australia Memories of Ian Like many long time members of NPA, • An Easter camp at the Ravine near • The wonderful camp fire games on I was saddened to hear of the recent Kiandra, where the Currie's the Saturday evening and many death of our life member and former refrigerator in their old Commer van others. President, Ian Currie. produced a supply fresh Easter eggs Dianne and I will always be grateful Dianne, Ben, Jenny, Alice and I (Ian distributed them dressed as the to the consideration, care and attention have many fond and happy memories Easter bunny) the heat had that senior NPA members, many from being members at the time and melted the Thompson collection of unfortunately no longer with us, gave fortunate enough to participate in many Easter eggs into unrecognisable not only to our children during that time of the now legendary Ian Currie car shapes; but also to the other children who were camps during the 1980s. • The pushing of the old Commer van fortunate enough to share those As a young family at that time, up the greasy slopes on our departure experiences. They helped foster a deep many friendships were made on these from a camp in the Tantawangalo love of nature and the environment that trips that always took us to interesting, Forest. This trip corresponded with a is those members' continuing legacy to exciting and unusual places. When I viewing of Halley's Comet; this day. passed the news of Ian's death on to my • The numerous trips to the Manning Gary Thompson children, Ben, Jenny and Alice, the Clark property at Wapengo; news was greeted with a quiet silence • The discovery of 'Bush Bottoms' and then followed a flood of 'do you north of Goulbum, and on one trip remember when' from their memories the children's ride back from the of these trips. To cite but a few: walk on an old tractor;

Ian Currie—Life Member, President, Car-camper extraordinaire (continued from page 18) overseas trips (birders trips to the SW from 'somewhere indescribable but Ian masterminded the gluhwein USA, to Fair Isle between the Orkney usually invisible' tradition for NPA's Annual General and Shetland Islands, to Iceland (falling • A tremulous young voice heard as Meetings, and ensured he trained an for the enthusiasm of one whom they camp was being set up 'Mummy, apprentice to carry on. He has left us had introduced to the NPA). why is the dentist here?'. with many fond excursion memories Memories: Ian had not been able to come to and some very worthwhile traditions to • He was a proud Australian of many NPA ACT meetings over the last carry on. Scottish heritage — Mr Currie out on few years, but he had not been, and Ian led an equally active life beyond NPA walks under the protection of a will not be, forgotten. Our thoughts go NPA. He was a very keen golfer, very large tartan umbrella. out to Jean, to Marian and Peter, and to playing whenever possible both locally • From a young and impressed Ian and Jean's grandchildren, Melissa, and when away travelling. He and Jean passenger 'Gee, Mr Currie, you're a Harry and Callum. explored widely within Australia, real stunt driver'. Adrienne Nicholson beetling around in their camper van, • Mr Currie, playing medico to one and enjoyed off-the-beaten-track unfortunate camper, removing a tick National Parks Association Calendar

General Meetings Sept Oct Nov Dec Mon 25 Public holidays Mon 2 Third Thursday of the mouth Tues 26 (not December and January) General meetings Thur 21 Thur 19 Thur 16 — 8:00pm Committee meetings Tues 5 Tues 3 Tues 7 Tues 5

Uniting Church hall NPA ACT Christmas Party Sun 10 56 Scrivener Street Gudgenby Bush Regeneration 1 Sat 9 Sat 14 Sat 11 Sat 9 O'Connor Further details 1 Yankee Hat carpark 10:00am, Clive Hurlstone 6288 7592 (h) 040 778 3422 (mob)

Thursday 21 September 2006 viewpoint; Echidnarama (15 mins) is of the species. This talk will discuss an intimate journey into the secluded recent research activities on quolls in Heritage in the ACT lives of these intriguing spiny bush south-eastern Australia, with emphasis Dr. Sandy Blair. Manager, friends. on management of the species. Heritage Unit, Environment ACT. Dr. Blair will bring us up to date on the activities of the ACT Heritage Council Thursday 16 November 2006 and the Heritage Unit. .Ecology and Management of the The assodiation welcomes the Spotted-tailed Quail: a Threatened following new members: Marsupial Carnivore. Mary Hoffmann, Don Fletcher, Thursday 19 October 2006 Dr. Andrew Claridge, Fauna Julie & Toni Lindner, Glynis With movie camera in bush Ecologist, Department of Whitfield, Onko & Jennifer and snow Environment and Conservation, Kingma, Louise Kench, David Matthew Higgins. Nature Parks and Wildlife Division, Lyddieth, Noel Semple, Shirley documentary maker, historian and Reserve Conservation Unit, Pipitone, Andrew Zelnik, Cathy museum curator. Southern Branch, Queanbeyan Hook, Hiromi Uzu, Joslin Moore, Matthew will present two short films NSW. Jeffrey Miles, Jinnie Lovett, and tell us the background to their The spotted-tailed quoll is the largest Alyson Groom, Margaret Strong creation. Winter Road (16 mins) is a extant marsupial carnivore on the We look forward to seeing you at personal ode to the beauty of the high Australian mainland. Despite their association activities country once the snow starts to fall, charismatic nature and threatened seen from a cross-country skier's status, little is known about the ecology

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