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Home , Endrick River, Goodradigbee River, Hume and Hovell Track, Shoalhaven River, Snowy River, Towamba River

CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB INC NEWSLETTER

GPO Box 160, CanberraACT 2601

VOLUME 30 NOVEMBER 1994 NUMBER 11

NOWHERE,% HOPJTFJLY HEEJ1NQ

Dickson Ubrary Community Room Wednesday 16 November, 8.00 pm onwards A representative from Mont Equipment will speak on stsil F4s io 4ut vas Ut £4e4 s (4c ec4seto~,s.r44 Make the most of the evening andjoh other members at 6.00pm for a convivial (BYO) meal at the Vietnamese Restaurant at O'Connor Shops (the one on the cornet). Thj to be early to ensixe there sill be ample time to tinh and still get to the meeting in comfortable time.

FRESIDENT'S FRAflLE However, we all returned safely, again some of the beginners amazed that we had returned at all! In the last IT all members would have received letters with regards to their ability to lead walks. So think about leading walks. You always get lots Thank you Man Vidler for all the work and your of help with the planning (and even co-leading) enthusiasm in sending out these letters. and it can be fun as well as rewarding.

Leading walks is a great way of seeing the areas The walks planning evening was a great success. that you want to see and you stifi have the benefit Look for the new leaders in future issues of iT. of sharing and getting to know more of the For those who couldn't make it, we hope to see members. Plus, most people think that you know you at the next wallcs planning evening. exactly where you're going! Only you know the hidden doubts and relief when you're successfully The committee has decided CBC is to join navigated and reached the destination. Greening (cost $25) as part of our conservation effort. Next month I will detail I still remember the first walk I led, with the more of what I would like this dub to achieve in conservation. encouragement of Allan Mikkelsen - it was to Mt

Gudgenby - and the surprise on people's faces when we returned, emerging from the The committee is now looking at bush within lOOm of the cars. new conservation projects. Our next project will be to help with repairs of I also recall leading a beginner skiers' Bolton's I-hill Hut. Further details trip in appalling conditions. I relied follow immediately after this Prattle. strongly on my co-leader up front to wait at each orange post while I trailed The Assistant Walks Secretary, behind with the first-timers. It was Michael Pedvin, would appreciate all not the best day to learn skiing, white- leaders informing him about the out, driving winds and bitter cold. conditions of the area they have visited when checking—in. For example the Eucumbene - tunnel. availability of water, track conditions, hazards, This tunnel, 22.2 km long and 6,9m diameter, is the weed infestations, native and feral animals, and so largest in the Snowy on. In this way we are able to help future leaders Mountains Scheme in terms and identify possible conservation projects. of rock excavated.

Happy Walking! Unlike many huts built of

Pk1wt4G4fl -g b,par.üthJ'CSàflT. a,tega o,°. Janet Edstein stout "bush" timber, Bolton's Hill is an entirely prefabricated structure of light timber framing and fibro sheet. Also unlike most huts, it is NOTICE OF MOTION located on the weather (NW) side of the ridge, where it has withstood the blizzards for about 40 years - a FOR NOVEMBER GENERAL MEETING testimony to good design in lightweight material.

That Canberra Bushwalking Club authorize It seems there were three other buildings at the site - a spending of up to $150 on materials for cookhouse, radio hut and toilet. All are now ruins. maintenance work by CRC members on Bolton's Hill Hut, in cooperation with the The remaining hut is maintained, as are most in the KNP, by volunteer Caretaker Groups coordinated by Kosciusko Huts Association, during the the Kosciusko Huts Association. All maintenance March quarter of 1995. work is approved and supervised by the Kosciusko National Park Management. Bolton's Hill hut is Proposed by Rod Peters. Moved by maintained primarily for its historic value. Ashburner and seconded by Roger Edwards. The Cub was appointed caretaker of the hut in 1978 and Steve,n Gisz led work parties in 1979 and 1980, to STATEMENT BY ROD PETERS IN SUPPORT dean up the site and repair windows. OF NOTICE OF MOTION I was appointed by the Cub Committee to coordinate the next major maintenance effort, in 1988 and 1989, The Club has an obligation, as endorsed Caretaker which was directed to painting repairing windows and Group, to maintain the hut in sound condition. It restoring the bunks and stove. The Cub prepared the is now necessary to repaint the hut to prevent detailed Conservation Plan for the site, which the KNP deterioration. has now endorsed. About 15 dub members participated in the work parties and had an enjoyable Most huts in the Kosciusko National Park are time. maintained solely by volunteers. The Clubs participation as a Caretaker Group gives those Following this work the main hut has been restored to members who occasionally visit the huts the a condition where the only ongoing maintenance likely opportunity to make a contribution to this effort. to be required is regular repainting. The fittings in the hut have also been restored to what is believed to have been present during the SMA era. Under KNP Bolton's Hill Hut - a potted history guidelines, restoration of the other buildings at the site is neither required nor consistent with the official Bolton's Hill hut is situated in the Kosdusko National Conservation Plan for the site. Park, to the north of Happy Jack's plain. The hut is a little below the crest of Bolton's (Temperance) Ridge. It The hut is now in need of repainting. I propose putting is a long (over 20km) but easy and pleasant walk or ski a weekend trip on the program, for a work party from Mt Selwyn ski resort, mostly along fire trails during February. Further details will be provided in a which have partly revegetated. later It. Suffice to say that members of work parties will not be expected to walk 20 km to the site - that All that is formally known of the history of the hut is would not leave much time in a weekend for work - that it was built, in the early 1950s, by the Snowy nor carry paint and tools. Vehicular access has Tt c nn+ Mountains Authority to aid "survey work" n permitted to the end of the Tolbar clear whether this was topographic road, near Happy Jack's hut. That survey only or also included "diamond leaves a walk of not more than 10 kin drilling". 1 would be pleased to hear from along an easy fire frail to Bolton's I-Jill any Cub member interested in hut. It is usually possible to have researching and documenting the history paint, ladders etc taken by vehide to a of the hut from SMA files. location near the hut. Rod Peters The hut is dose to the line of the

CEO It November1994 page 2 EDITOR'S EFFUSION I MEMBERSHIP MAflERS

This is your Club magazine, and whether you're New members: Michael Schild, Kaleen; Michael satisfied with it or not will depend at least in part Preskett, Higgins; Megan Shirlow, Turner; Judy on what you put into it. As technology has Kraatz, Yarralumla. improved, it's been possible to make our modest monthly publication a little prettier in Prospective new members: Sally Walls and C. presentation. But the content is not just the Smith, Chisholm; Gloria Maher, North Lyneham; Editor's: it's yours. Paul and Bob Bell, Captain's Flat; Leona Seib, Banks. I see no reason why we couldn't make It a regular 16 pages. We'd all be interested to read more Similarly, if you plan a trip from a map and on regular Trip Reports as well as Trip Previews. actually doing the walk, find that the map is And I'il be more than happy to publish stories or inaccurate or hopelessly wrong - as I did when information that are of general interest to looking for the western end of the Snubba members - whether you send them in as articles Walking Track, which isn't anywhere near where or as Letters to the Editor. it's shown in the Batlow 1:25 000 map - put it in your report. Or if you find that a particular route Format is good, or especially difficult because of Your Editor is a busy person (as no doubt you horrendous scunge or scree, put it in your report. consider yourself). I don't relish unnecessary Likewise, if you discover a really great place to keying in pages of text when you could fairly camp, either on the walk itself or perhaps to stop easily have given me not only a hard copy but on Friday night on the long drive to the start of your material on disk. Please submit your walk - put it in your report. contributions on disk if at all possible! Editorial changes In bringing It to print I will try I produce It in Word for Windows to keep to a minimum any 2 (for IBM-compatible), but I can changes to what you submit to handle material submitted in me, consistent with the text Word Perfect 4 or 5, Word for making sense and passing the DOS (Word 5), MultiMate, grammar police!• Changes of WordStar (up to 55), Windows substance will not be made Write, MS Works, Word for without reference back to the Macintosh or indeed in any text file. I prefer author. IBM-formatted disks but can handle Mac- formatted disks as well (at work). Advertising The Committee has a longstanding policy against Trip reports publishing advertising of a commercial nature, I think Trip Reports should contain hard other than (for example) short paragraphs from information as well as anecdotal or humorous members offering personally owned items for sale. material if they are to be of any lasting value. We will, however, publish notes on conservation Don't forget that past Its are a useful source of activities. ideas for future walks. It may be amusing to read that X nearly fell over a cliff after too much port Deadlines for copy around the camp fire, or that Y spent hours going It dosing date each month is the same day as the round in circles because of a misunderstanding of Committee meeting, that is, the fourth Wednesday instructions. Of course there's a place for of each month. For November, it's Wednesday comments like that in a trip report to entertain 23. I will nevertheless be delighted to receive other Club members. But let's say, for example, material earlier than this! you've found out - perhaps the hard way - that on a trip to Kanangra-Boyd, you might run out of Illustrations petrol if you haven't filled up at Goulburn on the I'd love to publish any good line drawings you've way up. (If you're coming back on a Sunday made or procured, or photographs that scan with night, you won't find the petrol station in good contrast. Let's have a brighter It! open.) Put this in your report. David Truman CBC it November1994 page 3 2

TRIP REPORTS After a late, decadent coffee AND MT and cakes (in IMLAY - 1-3 October 1994 Richards case, meat pie as well) This walk was a last minute substitution for Mt at a bakery in Feathertop and Mt Buffalo .- which were ruled out Eden, we because of 65 cm of snow all the way along the continued south Razorback Ridge. As it turned out, and for future through Kiah reference I think this should be kept in mind, the across the Towamba and took the second coast was by far the better trip to do in early substantial dirt road to the right to reach the spring: nowhere near so cold, and in fact, Burrawang Picnic Area at the 'eastern foot of Mt extremely pleasant. Imlay. There is a water tank at the picnic area (which is small and fairly primitive) and the road passes through extensive areas of forest which has been dear-felled for wood chips in the past, and has since regrown (with signs helpfully,informing you when the area was last éut). Obviously the area has no old growth forest left (outside the national park) but it certainly looked less ghastly than when I last saw it back in 1985.

The walking track rises in fairly easy stages to the top of Mt Imlay (888 metres), which has views from Mailacoota to Mt Dromedary. There is no communications tower on top yet - but the local fishing community are in head-on conflict with the National Parks and Wildlife Service over the issue. (The next day we saw, at Green Cape, the remains of the fishing boat which went down in August, drowning two fishermen. The locals believe their lives could have been saved if the communications system had been in place.)

Mt Imlay is home to two botanical curiosities - a four-petalled Eriostemon (wax flower) known elsewhere only from Tasmania and a single spot in ; and the endemic Eucalyptus imlaypnsis. Just below the rocky summit there is a stand of white ash (Eucalyptus fraxinoides).

After the descent we drove east from the down Edrom Road, then Green Cape Road, then on reaching the boundary of the southern section of Ben Boyd National Park, north along Duck Hole Road, then east to Saltwater Creek camping ground where we car-camped for Saturday and Sunday nights.

On Sunday morning we inspected Green Cape lighthouse in strong wind and intermittent rain, with the sea cashing off the rocks. Not promising for a walk north to Bittangabee. So we drove to Bittangabee and followed the

080 It November1994 page 4 excellent walking track from the picnic area there AREA - HENRY ANGEL northwards for nine kilometres to Saltwater FLAT TO MANNUS CAMPSITE (Hume and Creek This is a very scenic piece of coast, with Hovell Track) AND SNUBBA WALKING wild and colourful rock platforms, small secluded TRACK - 22-23 October 1994 beaches, and interesting heathiand flora. On reaching Woodburn Creek (the southern of the LEADER: David Truman. two creeks which flow into the sea at Saltwater PARTY: Ann Riley, Pat Miethke, Cathy & René de Creek campground) you have to walk Kiefte, and Richard .Bain. downstream to the sandbar across its mouth to MAPS: Yarrangobffly and Rosewood 1:100 000. reach the main beach, then walk north along it before turning left to the camping ground. I got up at 4 am in the dark, but soon the first birds started calling, and by the time we left Canberra at Saltwater Creek is a very good place indeed to 5 a.m. it was a glorious sunny day. and camp. It has pleasant, flat grassy areas doffed breakfast at 6.30 am., felt like midmorning. The with tall trees, a number of fire places with grilles drive to Tumbarumba was one of the best bits of and barbecue plates, toilets and a water tank; and the trip. The country was green and lush, the it is well protected from the wind - with the orchards were a mass of white apple blossom, sound of the sea pleasantly everywhere. gardens were ablaze with cherry blossom, dogwoods, azaleas and rhododendrons. Its a On Sunday morning, in superb weather we very pretty area. walked a leisurely 3½ km northwards to a high platform overlooking After a second breakfast of pies and icecreams in Mowarry Point. We Tumbarumba, and a car shuffle, we started followed a good track, walking from the Henry Angel Campsite GR apart from a detour to 345956 at 9.15 am. Good grief!, the sign says 22 a positively exquisite km to Mannus Campsite and the other car. We rock-enclosed beach ambled south along the half a kilometre north Hume and Hovell Track, of Saltwater Creek. It following was great to be able to and the old gold diggings, take our time to enjoy this really dramatic section water races, and an of coast, with high cliffs of red rock interspersed impressive tunnel blasted with small grassy tussocks and hardy wildflowers out of solid rock in 1876 to - similar in appearance to volcanic rock being drain a swamp for gold colonized by plants on the southern coast of mining. We detoured up Hawaii - with deep blue sea and cashing waves to the sill below Big Hill against the cliffs. and sat on H & H seats placed to take in the view Most of the party had not previously visited this of white sheep in a green part of Ben Boyd National Park and all agreed it valley, leading away to blue hills sweeping up to was really something - an area the Club should the snow clad peaks of the Kosciusko range. This visit more regularly. has to be N.Z.! To complete the trip, after a lunch of fish and We continued along the track through open forest, chips at the Eden Wharf we drove north along the up to and north along a ridge top in Mannus State coast to Tathra and checked out the first 1 1 h Forest. Easy going. Lunch in a grassy glade at I kilometres of the new Kangarutha Walking Track p.m. and a snooze in the sun. Views out through which follows or parallels the coast in Bournda the trees over green hillsides to blue ranges. A National Park. (To reach it, in Tathra turn south long road bash beside Mannus Dam, but this from the highway into Davidson Street and follow could be avoided by leaving a car at the dam. it to the Kitanny Picnic Area, where the track Mannus Campsite 4.15 pm., GR 399853. begins.) Time didn't permit walking more of the track this time, so I'm We transferred to Henry Angel Campsite for the foreshadowing this night. Hot water, flush toilets, electric BBQs, soft • now as a future walk grass, and all for free. Much better than Mannus for the program. David Truman

CDt It November 1994 pageS Campsite and we could pass the icecream shop PRACTICAL CONSERVATION again as well. The Australian Trust for Conservation Sunday morning was leisurely, we even sat in the Volunteers aims to conserve the environment sun and read for a while. Departure at 9 am. was through involving the community in 'hands-on' followed by a garden tour of Batlow in the spring. projects.

We spent time searching on the Snubba Range east The ATCV is a non-profit, non-political of Batlow for the top of the Snubba Walking community-based organization which operates in Track, as shown on A:k'.s every State and Territory in Australia. Under the 1:25 000 and 1:100 000 guidance of employed and trained field officers JYA4 T'z maps, but couldn't and program managers, these volunteer members - find it. So we drove assist in projects such as revegetation, seed down Yellowin Forest collection, fence construction, walking track - •. - - Road and found the maintenance, weed and vermin control, heritage lower end of the Track at Yellowin Creek well restoration, and wildlife and other scientific marked and with a car pull-off area. We started research. walking at the decadent hour of 10.45 am. The low ridge to the east of the creek was like a garden ATCV volunteers work on public and private land of wildflowers and there were great views to Big including forests, grasslands, beaches, parklands Talbingo Mountain with s cifflines. Near the and farmland. ATCV provides a field officer, second creek crossing bracken covered the track transport, accommodation and equipment for all and 3 of the party turned back because of a knee projects. injury. Three others were encouraged to go on, despite the fact that the track and then the metal The Canberra office runs week-long and weekend markers ceased, and the party was now split. 1 programs. Local projects between now and just love these situations, they add immense Christmas include environmental weed control on interest to the day. We climbed 1000 feet up a O'Connor Ridge and Red Hill, and legless lizard steep ridge, coming across the occasional yellow surveys in Gungahlin. During September ATCV tape round a tree. We navigated across the tops carried out manual seeding of eucalypts at through lovely old and tree planting at . forest with a low understorey of bracken, Unemployed people who complete projects of yellow-red pea flowers, three weeks or longer receive an achievement purple Hardenbergia certificate and, if appropriate, a reference. and Indigofera. Amazingly, we came Anybody with a healthy interest in the across the odd yellow environment is welcome to join the ATCV. tape and then regular metal markers again. It is now a marked route only, no vestige of the For information on the Trust, call Michele walking track remains. We had lunch at the Belford at the Canberra office on 247 7770 or lookout point at CR 602104 at 2.30 pm. with the promised view out to Blowering Dam, then cut freecall 008 646 915. The ATCV is at 120 down the ridge north to the road and back to the Bunda Street, Canberra City ACT 2601, cars at 4 pm. Meantime the others had gone for a drive to Yellowin Forest Park on Blowering Dam and had also found the top of the Snubba Walking Track a couple of km south of where it is marked on the map.

We had a very pleasant drive home in the evening light, and were back in Canberra by 8 pm. It is wonderful to fly along in somebody else's car so MAKE A effortlessly. It was a good walk, David, and it was a great holiday! Pat Miethke DIFFERENCE

CBC It November1994 page 6 a_:i*fl!tteMaLwts_It1

Anyone researching the origins of bushwalking could be tempted into drawing a comparison with the early swagman. Yet nothing could be further from the truth. Early bushwalkers were (generally) well educated and looking for recreatiow swagmen were the workforce, mainly during the 1880s and 1890s, upon whom landholders in the outback depended for seasonal labour. They were generally shearers, farmhands, fencers, tank-sinkers and even the occasional white-collar worker. Few owned a horse and hence they walked between jobs.

Blankets, a tent or fly, and spare clothes (if any) went into a short compact roll (sometimes called a cigarette swag) which was fastened by two narrow belts. A wide strap then joined the belts for looping over the shoulder. Occasionally a towel served as a shoulder-strap or to pad the shoulder. -

A tucker bag was tiçd to the top belt on the swag and thrown over the other shoulder to hang down on the chest. Usually this was a large sugar bag and carried nearly vertical, bringing the bulk of its weight on top of the spine. Some men preferred to use two shoulder-straps.

A quart-pot for tea was carried in one hand, which left the other hand free to combat the hordes of flies. Sometimes swagmen also had a smaller billy for boiling meat. A four-quart canvas water bag was carried in drier areas.

In Queensland about 1905 the boundary rider's ration was the same as the swagman's - 4.5 kg flour, 45 kg meat, 900 gms sugar and 225 gms tea (usually low grade, imported in bulk from China). In , possibly kecause the country was more closely settled, only 1.8 kg flour, 450 gms sugar, 225 gms tea and a small tin of baking powder were provided and even some chops or a shoulder of mutton.

During 1895 the first safety bike appeared in central west Queensland. Once its ability to cover long distances was realized shearers did most to popularize it. They wanted to travel from station to station in the minimum of time but without the fuss of a horse. By 1903 bicycles were common. Shearers could cover the 190 kilometres between Longreach and Winton in a day, especially when there was a tail wind.

Then came the telephone and shearers obtained theft jobs through agents in the towns who had been informed by the stations of their requirements.

Many of the old swagmen, however, travelled alone, following the same track from station to station - up one side of the river, down the other, all year round walking an average of 19-24 kilometres a day, living on the rations and handouts as the generosity of the station people dictated. Times of depression were especially hard on the swagmen who were also known as sundowners, (mad) hatters and 'whalers'.

Whalers were wanderers who often camped for long periods wherever fish could be caught, especially along the Murrumbidgee and Darling . Their name could have derived from the 'whales' they caught. or because they camped on the New South Wales side of the river.

Characteristics of the 'sundowner' were the avoidance of hill climbing, restlessness, solitary habits, methodical walk and camping only one night at any one spot. While the swagman was a user of the roads, the sundowner belonged to the roads. The swagman would be repaired to do a little work to earn his meal whereas the sundowner would arrive too late for a job.

Bernard Cronin proffered (1950) the sundowner as one whose solitary habits and roving philosophy came not from idleness of the flesh, so much as from an odd quirk of the spirit. Often a man of education and background, of professional distinction or one-time social importance - so not to be confused with the swagman or alcoholic. CBC It November 1994 page 7 The two killers of swagmen were cancer and asthma - the damp of his outdoor life made him subject to bronchitis which induced asthma. Strain on the heart did the rest. Many old swagmen would make for and spend the winter months at the Old Men's Home at Lidcombe. Once spring arrived, off they would go.

A strict rule of the track was never to probe into another man's past. Occasionally a swagman had a fiercely loyal dog as a companion. Few women took to the track and then usually in the company of their husband (mainly during depressed economic times).

At 19 years of age, with a poorly paid job mattress-making, 'Duke' Tritton pursued a one-man strike for a wage rise. When the raise was refused he walked out and went on the road (1905-14, then again during the Depression). Duke and a mate were a bit musical and would occasionally busk in towns, although theft success would be dependent upon the sympathies of the local police. They also picked up a bit of money boxing when the shows came to town. -

Tritton wrote in 1960 of those times that 'I learned what mateship meant, and that all men had some good in them; and to assess the worth of a man by his actions and not by his social standing'.

The only contribution that swagmen gave bushwalkers was the swag. Ruth- or haversacks were available in Australia but were small. Myles Dunphy tried a number of variations and finally settled upon the swag. After much testing the only adaptation Myles came up with was to encase the swag in a cylinder of oilskin for protection. The swag was an essenëial part of bushwalking until the early 1930s, when Paddy Pallin started manufacturing packs. 'CLIO'

NOTICE - Finding your way in the Bush

Copies of the CBC publication written by George Carter Finding your way in the Bush are available at the monthly meetings from the Membership Secretary (Roger Edwards). The booklet, costing $2, provides excellent advice on navigation and planning bushwalks.

EQUIPMENT HIRE

Take advantage of the excellent gear that the Club has available for hire before lashing out on your own equipment. The Equipment Officer is Maurice Wicks on 258 8890 (h).

The equipment available and current rates per weekend are as follows. Please note that a refundable deposit of $20 is also required.

+ Trangia and fuel bottle $5 • Snow sleeping bag, mat and liner $15 • 3 season bag, mat and liner $10 Long bed compass no charge - just a deposit of $5 + Assorted packs $5 • Olympus two person tent $15 + Macpac Microlight one person tent $15

CBC II Novombor 1994 page 8 WALKS SECRETARY'S WAFFLE

The October Walks Planning evening / social event was both successful and enjoyed by the twenty plus people who attended. Thank you also to the many people who could not attend but posted, phoned and faxed walks to me. I hope the next evening, probably in February, will be bigger and better as more people get involved, and we learn from the last one. In particular, it is very pleasing to see the names of about fifteen people who have not previpusly led a walk for the Club on the program. I hope their walks are strongly supported, successful, and the first of many for them.

Please let me know quickly if I've not got all the details of your walk correct: I was a bit too disorganized to cope with the number of walks received! I normally plan a controlled preparation, with time to negotiate rescheduling, to produce a smooth program...

I hope to organize some navigation instruction and practice sessions as many people say they want them, but this is unlikely to happen until after Christmas. Suggestions and volunteers are sought - my numerous such trips in the past have usually been poorly attended, so I'm a bit reluctant to present my brand of session again!

There are still a number of gaps on the program, and your contributions are very welcome.

The Editor and I have agreed on a policy regarding publication of the Activity Program: • All walks up to at least 7 weeks after IT Collation will be described in detail. We both hope for a longer period. • Detailed descriptions of walks after that may be dropped at the Editor's discretion to cope with space 'limitations, and subject to the following point. • All other wallcs programmed will be in a "one line" list after the end of the published detailed descriptions. This list may be truncated at a particular date to meet editorial constraints, but if so this will be dearly indicated. The prime purpOse of this list is to help leaders in scheduling walks - if no walk is listed on a date, then there is no walk scheduled. - - • Trip summaries should be submitted to the Walks Secretary, not the Editor. • Trip summaries for the program should be short. Separate more detailed previews may be submitted directly to.the Editor (who in fact solicits them). • Both the Walks Secretary and the Editor may edit details submitted as they deem appropriate. I will normally discuss any grading or other substantive changes with the leader. • To reduce the incidence of late nights for both of us, the Walks list will normally be dosed each month about three days before IT dosing to allow me time to put the program together and negotiate with leaders to minimise dashes and gaps. Please submit walks as early as possible.

I hope to indude some suggestions in a future Waffle on how non- leaders can contribute to the walks program.

Alan Vidler

GOC It November1994 page 9 ACTIVITY PROGRAM

GRADING OF WALKS:

(S) Short - under 12km1day; (M) Medium - 12-20km1day; Long - over 20km1day. (E) Easy - fltetrail, tracks, beaches etc; Medium - bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub; (R) Rough - much scrub, steep climbs, rock scrambles (14Q Wet - compulsory swims, many river crossings

NOTE:• In calculating distance 1 km is added for every 100 metres climbed.

TRANSPORT: Costs are presently 25 cents a kilometre per car, divided equally among ALL participants. This amount is a guide only and can be varied at the discretion of the leader depending on the condition of the roads, the number of passengers per car and other factors. The figures given for individual trips are rough estimates only, based on four people per car, and other factors - costs may rise if cars are only partly filled. Park admission and camping fees are additional costs which leaders should list separately. Members are reminded that bookings normally close at 2 pm on Thursday.

NOTICE TO ALL WALKERS: The leader should check with you that you are capable of completing the proposed trip. He may assess this from observation on previous walks or by asking where, when and with whom you have walked previously. He should also check that you are aware of what the trip entails and of any special equipment or skills needed. LEADERS may reject any applicant they think is not suitable for the trip.

SEARCH & RESCUE ORGANIZATION

S&R Contacts are: David Campbell 2722025(w) 2541511(h), Allan Mikkelsen 2540764(h), 2643472(w). Area Coordinators: Belconnen - Pat Miethke 2493085(w) 2412798(h), Woden - Doug Wright 2814 148(h).

Sunday 13 November - Onoral Valley - M/E (Either Janet or, more likely I. have bungled as! can 'Jmnd her preview - this is from memo?y-A V) Starting from Orroral Valley, follow the fire trail up to Honeysuckle ridge. Follow the ridge, with its magnificent boulder collection and great views, then descend to the Orroral Valley floor and back to the cars). A leisurely trip with much to offer. Maps: Rendezvous Creek & Corin Dam 1:25000. Leaders: Janet & Paul Edstein 288 1398(h), 271 4514(w-Paul). Transport cost about $8.

Sunday 13 November - Mt McKeahnie by bike and foot - M/R To save four hours of walking along the Cotter Hut Road we propose to ride bikes to Eighty Acres Flat. A good mountain bike or hybrid is required for this section. We will then climb a ridge which has many granite tors to explore. Map: Tantangara 1:100000 / Corin Dam 1:25000 Leaders: Roger & Rosemarie Edwards 2954598(w) 2887863(h). Transport cost about $8.

12-13 November - - Newhaven Gap - M/M In from Nerriga entrance following Endrick River to Vines Creek, then over Galbraith Plateau to Newhaven Gap. From Newhaven Gap by the old forestry road to The Vines and out by Styles Creek. Saturday night's camp will be determined en route and thus a tent fly will be required in case there are no caves. Map: CMWBudawangs. Leader: Richard Bain 2574816(h), 2655222 (w). Transport cost about $18.

12-13 November - Wineglass Tor and Big Horseshoe Bend - M/MR From Tullyangela Clearing walk to junction of North Oalcy & Tims Gully Creeks, where there are the remains of old mine workings. From there, follow a ridge to Wineglass Tor for spectacular views of Big Horseshoe Bend. Camp near the Tims Gully/Shoalhaven Junction is reached via either a series of ridges, or the Shoalhaven and

CBC 1 hbvember 1994 page 10 Little Horseshoe Bend (or both!). Return is via Tims Gully and Sparkes Falls. This popular walk is described in more detail in Fitzroy Falls and Beyond (1988), p1 78 onward, but was first (7) on the CBC program circa 1977. Map: Touga 1:25000. Leaders: Alan & Sue V/tIler 254 5373(h), 2723553 (w-Sue). Transport cost about $25.

Wednesday 16 November: MONTHLY MEE11NG - 8pm at Dickson Library

Friday 18 November - Red Hill Ridge Evening Stroll - SIE A short walk for those with kids who want to go with you - you don't have to say 'sorry, not this time" this time! Meet on the vacant block at the intersection of La Perouse and Mugga Way at 6:15pm for an easy walk to Red Hill, the next hill with a trig point, and visit the abandoned quarry. We should be back at the cars in about 2 V2 hours. There is a flullmoon. Leader: Michael Pedvin 2775177(w) 2885751(h).

Saturday 19 November - Long Point to Badgery's Lookdown - M/M Join in Vance's thirtieth 21st birthday celebration. A popular trip with excellent scenery and opportunities for swimming. (Note: This IS a day trip - last month's IT was wrong) Map: Caoura 1:25000. Leader: Vance Brown 251 3997(h), 246 4092 (w). Transport cost about $15.

Saturday 19 November Coffer River - SIR - Wet Walk and swim the stretch of the Cotter between Bendora Road and the pipeline road. About 6km in the river (which I haven't done, so it's new for me too) plus a 250m climb back along a closed road. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25000. Leader: Murray Dow 2574371(h). Transport cost about $10.

19-20 November - Headwaters of the Clyde River - LI R The plan is to walk from Newhaven Gap to Folly Point, descend Watson's Pass and follow Hollands Creek to a pleasant campsite where it meets the Clyde. The return is up the Clyde, climbing out near Newhaven Gap. Old trip reports say the Upper Clyde has several waterfalls and pools. Maps: Endrick & Corang 1:25000. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h), 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $25. Limit of8.

Sunday 20 November - Creek - MIE A late start for a stroll over the hill down to the Murrumbidgee for a swim after watching the platypus, before coming back to the road along Michelago Creek. Learn to play 'Petanque'. Leader: Doug Wright 2814148(h). Transport cost about $10.

Monday 21 November - Closing Date for December Walks Program Trips to Alan Vidler 2545373(h+answering machine), 56 Woolner Crct, Hawker 2614, ring for fax details.

* Wednesday 23 November: COMMITIEE MEETING and IT CLOSING at Alan Vidler's home, 56 Woolner Crct, Hawker - 254 5373 (h)..

(24)25-27 November - Mallacoota to Wingan Inlet - M/E f Flex trip to the long ocean beaches of Croajingolong NP in Victoria. Also possible for those who can't make it for three days to catch up. Leave Thursday night and after a long car shuffle start out from Mallacoota, camping two nights at . Map: Mallacoota 1:100000. Leader: Chris I,..- Sinkora 287 1033(h), 250 6902(w). Transport cost about $40. Saturday 26 November - Afternoon Walk on the Murrumbidgee - SIE Start early afternoon. After a car shuffle, amble from Pine Island to Kambah Pool, with numerous opportunities for swimming if conditions and inclination so indicate. Leader: Bill Stock 259 2822(h), 216 2920(w). Transport cost nil.

Saturday 26 November Durras Lake - MIMIW A circumnavigation of one of the region's few remaining pristine coastal lakes, taking in the North Ann, the Broadwater, Bartley's Ann and Punt Arm. Some wading, a bit of mud and at least one compulsory swim. Maps: Durras and Kioloa 1:25000. Leader: Terence Uren 2822403(h). Transport cost about $20.

CBC it November 1994 page 11 Saturday 26 November - Bendora Dam Circuit - M/R I have planned an interesting route in the country to the east of Bendora Dam. We shall explore some rocky outcrops with cliffs and ferns' gullies, and return back via the shore line. Man: Tidbinbilla 1:25000. Leader: Chris Leslie 251 6123(h). Transport cost about $10.

26-27 November - Blue Waterholes, - Base camp - M/M Drive to Blue Waterholes via and Adiminaby. From the camping area, walk through the spectacular Cave creek gorge and on to the Goodradigbee River, removing the odd trout from these waterways if you're so inclined. On Sunday, visit old Coolamine Homestead, a 19th century farmer's home, before returning to Canberra. For those who haven't camped out before, this is a good way to try out camping gear. Maps: Peppercorn and Rules Point 1:25000. Leaders: Janet & Paul Edstein 288 1398(h), 271 4514(w-Paul). Transport cost about $25.

26-27 November Mt Jagungal From Round Mountain M/M Walk in via Farm Ridge. Camp on top of Mt Jagungal near the summit (water available) for a brilliant sunset and sunrise. Return via Round Mt fire trail. Map: Kosciusko 1:100000 Leader: Richard Bain 2574816(h), 2655222 (w). Transport cost about $25

26-27 November /Myrtle Creek - M/R Its a few years since I have led this walk, but Fm sure that the features which make this an enjoyable walk have not changed. We will start from the intersection of Woila creek and the Tuross River and follow the Tuross SW to the Myrtle Creek Saddle, then follow Myrtle Creek. We will camp at 364932 or thereabouts. Next day we will follow Myrtle Creek to 3 9293 1, then will head north to pick up the Tuross at a point which depends on how urgently we need to have a swim. Map: Belowra 1:25000. Leader: David Campbell 254 1511(h), 2722025(w). Transport cost about $18. Limit of 8.

Sunday 27 November - Lake Googong Canoe Trip - E/W An easy day trip, launching from the northern end near the dam wall, heading for the lovely gorges at the southern end. Enjoy lunch then return. An ideal introductory trip for beginners. BYO canoe or VT hire. Leader: Christine Higham 238 1391(h) 269 1425(w).

Sunday 27 November - Mt Wee Jasper - S/E From the Wee Jasper car park, follow the historic Hume-Hovell walking track to the summit of Mt Wee Jasper for lunch. After enjoying the views and the fine company, return to the cars. Map: Couragago 1:25000, Leader: John McMurray 257 4453(h+w). Transport cost about $10.

Wednesday 30 November - Evening Walk on lsaacs Ridge - S/E Meet 5:15 for 5:30pm start at toD of Ngunnawal Drive, O'Malley. There will be a car swap, with half the party starting at Farrer. Leader: Sybille Winberg. No need to book.

Saturday 3 December - Brindabella Creek - S/P From Bulls Head Shelter we descend to a section of Brindabella Creek to explore an interesting looking section. Creeks in this region are usually steep, narrow, with moist mossy rocks and treeferns. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25000. Leader: Chris Leslie 2516123(h). Transport cost about $10.

3-4 December - Canoe Flats from Badgery's Lookdown - M/M A long descent to the Shoalhaven from a popular entry point, with good swimming and a cheery campfire where we can swap anecdotes with Alan Vidler's slightly more energetic troops. Leader: Vance Brown 2513997 (Ii), 246 4092 (w). Transport Cost about $15.

3-4 December - Canoe Flats via Bushranger Pass - M/R This trip will be to a popular spot from an unusual direction. I've never been there from this direction, but expect spectaèular views into Billy Bulloos Canyon and the Shoalhaven, before descending to a good campsite complete with a good swimming spot. Down at the campsite we will meet up with Vance's group coming in from Badgery's Lookdown. Map: Caoura 1:25000. Leader: Alan Vidler 2545373(h). Transport cost about $25.

CBC It November 1994 page 12 3-4 December - Canyoning Trip - M/R/W This trip will be either in the Blue Mountains or preferably in the Bungonia area. Saturday is easy, Sunday harder. Some abseiling experience is necessary, and a small party limit will apply. Map and Transport cost: tba. Leader: Nic Betide/i 252 1541(h) 207 0157(w).

Sunday 4 December - Bundanoon Cliffs & Creek - M/E A walk mainly on tracks. Visit Erith coal mine, then on to the cliff top lookouts giving spectacular views in to Bundanoon Creek gorge. We will follow a track down to Bundanoon Creek for lunch and an optional swim. Return via Fairy Bower Falls, Nicholas Pass and the Ampitheatre. Map: Bundanoon 1:25000. Leader: Jan Sinclair 2547034(h) 216 2531(w). Transport cost about $20.

Sunday 4 December - Canoe Trip - Yass Trip Gorge - E/W Easy day trip on Lake Burrinjuck, starting from , on the arm of the lake, and riuAu.u.mS.a heading northwest through Devils pass into the Yass River for lunch. Woolgarlo is 90 minutes drive from Civic. Leader: Brian Palm 248 9245(h). Transport cost about $20.

Tuesday 6 December - IT COLLATION at home of Mike Morriss and Margaret Cole, 21 Rutledge Street, - 238 1662 (h).

Saturday 10 December - Mount Domain and lidbinbilla Mountain - M/M This popular walk has spectacular views back to Canberra and to the more remote peaks and valleys of Namadgi National Park. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25000. Leader: Mark Hopkins 273 3036(h), 252 5647(w). Transport cost about $5.

10-11 December - Mt Scabby, Mt Morgan and Oldfield's Hut - L/M A car swap between Yaouk and Tantangara with a common campsite where Bung Harris Creek meets the Yaouk Trail. Day 1: climb Mt Scabby from Old Yaouk Creek. Day 2: climb Mt Morgan and follow Lone Pine Trail down to Oldfield's Hut, thence to the cars at the bather on the road north from . Second party will do the reverse. Maps: Yaouk, Rendezvous Creek and Rules Point 1:25000 or Tantangara 1:100000. Leader: David Truman 254 6700 (Ii), 272 4632(w). Transport cost about $27.

10-11 December - Tantangara Dam, Goodradigbee River - M/M-R A Great walk in North KJ'1P in early summer. Not too rough but a little blackberry and some scrambling.. Will camp Saturday night on Cave Creek at Cooleman pools. Maps: Peppercorn & Rules Point 1:25000 Leader: Maurice Wicks 258 8890 (h,w). Transport Cost about $25.

70-17 December - Munumbidgee Canoe Trip - M/W Whitewater/flatwater trip from Childowlah, through to Gundagai River. This two day trip has up to grade 2 rapids. The distance will vary with water level. If you can handle the pace and the lovely beaches contact Jill Roberts 249 1390(h) or Brian Palm 248 9245(h) by Wednesday 7th. Transport cost about $37.

10-12 December - Rivers and Rainforests of the Budawangs - M/R Three days of glorious relaxation before Christmas in the best of the Budawangs. Map: Corang 1:25000. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h) 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $22.

Sunday 11 December - from Warn Bridge - S/EM Walk downstream on the Shoalhaven River from Warri Bridge near Braidwood. Interesting rock hopping and numerous pools for swimming. Map: Braidwood 1:100000. Leader: Sylvia Sheffield 299 2430(h). Transport cost about $10.

Wednesday 14 December - CHRISTMAS BBQ at Black Mountain Peninsula, 6pm onwards.

CBC It November 1994 page 13 Saturday 17 December - Gingera Wildflowers - M/E—M qfilcm Walk from Mt Ginini to the summit of Gingera via Stockyard Arboretum Spur for good views of the ACT and Kosciusko National Park. There should be early summer wildflowers in abundance. Return over Mt Ginini. Suitable for fit beginners. Map: Corin Dam 1:25000. Leader: Jan Sinclair 2547034(h) 2162531(w). Transport cost about $10.

Sunday 18 December - Gigerline Gorge - S/M/W Drop into the via Reedy creek and follow it downstream through the dramatic Gigerline Gorge to Tharwa, swimming at various pools along the way. Optional side trip to take in Gigerline trig if its not too hot. Map: Williamsdale 1:25000, Leader: At Terence Uren 282 2403(h). Transport cost about $4.

Sunday 18 December - Mt Domain, Coffer River, Fishing Gap - M/R An alternative, for the adventurous, to the popular Domain/Tidbinbilla Mountain trip. From the Domain, descend to the , then return via Fishing gap. Maps: Brindabella 1:100000/ Corin Dam & Tidbinbilla 1:25000. Leader: Arthur Knight 294 2966(h) 242 1606(w). Transport cost about $5.

17-18 December - Tabletop Mountain and Broken Dam Hut - M/E From Mt Selwyn to Nine Mile Diggings and Broken Dam Hut. On Sunday a stroll to the top of Tabletop, before returning to Broken Dam hut to catch up on the weekend papers and a cuppa. Lunchtime departure back to Mt Selwyn. Map: Yarrangqbilly 1:100,000 " Leader: Richard Bain 2574816(h), 2655222 (w). Transport cost about $25. 4

17-18 December— Paradise Hill - M/M A walk in the southern part of Kosciusko National park. From Dead Horse Gap follow the fire trail to Cascade Creek, then follow the creek to Paradise Hill. On Sunday we will traverse Purgatory and Jerusalem Hills; Should see a few brumbies that live in the area. Bring fuel stoves. Map: Jacobs River 1:100000. Leader: Roger Edwards 288 7863(h), 295 4598(w). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fees.

(16)17-18 December - Hannel's Spur to Mt Kosciusko - L/R Drive to Geehi on Friday night. Climb 1800m up Hannel's Spur to Camp somewhere near Kosciusko. Return will be via the same route, or possibly Wilkinson's Creek. Spectacular scenery all the way, as you climb Australia's biggest(?) continuous spur. Map: Kosciusko 100000 or Mt Kosciusko 1:50000. Leader: Paul Rustomji 254 3500(h). Transport cost about $30 plus NP entry fee.

Friday 16 December - IT CLOSING - copy to David Truman 254 6700(h), 272 4632 (w), fax 272 5736 (w) or preferably by disk to 9 Mainoru Place, Hawker.

27 December - 1 January - Yankee's Creek and - S/MW (slack) Leave Canberra on 27th and drive via to near Yankee's Gap. A short first day will end with camp at 322589. We will then potter down Yankee's Creek and up the Brogo for several days. On the second last day we will climb over the ridge back to, probably, the first camp site, ready for a final day stroll back to the cars. Lots of river to explore for those so inclined, otherwise bring plenty of goodies and reading material. Discover why this area is the target of numerous Christmas trips. Maps: Puen Buen and Yankees Creek 1:25000. Leader: Rene Lays 241 7862 (h), 266 4368 (w). Transport cost about $25?

24 or 26 December - 3 January - Tasmania Trip: Walls of Jerusalem - Lake St. Clair - M/M See preview in October It. The route is: - The Walls - Lake Meston to the Overland Track via Mersey River or the Mountains of Jupiter - The Labyrinth - Lake St. Clair. For further details please contact leaders: Richard Bain 257 4816 (Ii), 265 5222( w) or David Truman 254 6700 (h) 272 4632 (w). Transport cost about $330 for plane plus $70 for bus.

24 December - 2 January Cape Barren Island - S/E A superb and leisurely walk around the pristine rarely visited coastline of Cape Barren Island: Contact Chris Sinkora 287 1033(h) 2506902(w) for details. cac 0 November1994 page 14 Sunday 8 January - Shanahan's Mountain and Horse Gully Hut - M/M [Subtitle: Lazarus Returns - JA last led a walk in 197? in another club and State]) Follow a track from the road to Shanahan's Mountain for good views of the area. Descend to Shanahans Falls Creek. Negotiate swimming spots to jam the fire trail near Horse Gully Hut, and amble back to the main road and the cars. Map: Colinton 1:25000. Leader: James Ashburner 254 1666(h), 252 7934(w). Transport cost about $10. Tuesday 10 January - IT COLLATION - venue to be announced.

See Next Month for further details - and corrections - to the program, including:

Saturday 14 January - Kambah Pool To Pine Island - S/E - Vance Brown Saturday 14 January - Blue Lakes - L/E - Ian Sinclair Saturday 14 January - Goodradigbee Lila Trip - S/RJW - Damien Brawn 14-15 January Goodgradigbee Weekend Lilo trip - M'R\W - Damien Brown 2 1-22 January - Base Camp - S/E - Janet & Paul Edstein 21-22 January Blue Lake from Charlottes Pass - S-MIE - Richard Bain 21-22 January - Turass Gorge to Tuross Cascades - MJR/W - Alan Vidler 21-22 January - Bumberry Creek & Tuross Gorge - LIRJW - John J'ons Sunday 22 January - Tuross Cascades Bludge trip - S/E. - Vance Brown January 1995- Upper and Queens Pound River - M/R - George Carter January - Tinderry Twin peaks - MIM - Sylvia Flaxman/ Lynn Atkinson January - Mt Tennent From the Tharwa side- Sylvia Flaxman/ Lynn Atkinson January - Old Boboyan Road and Boboyan trig - M/M - Sylvia Flaxman/ Lynn Atkinson 26-29 January - Mallacoota to Newtons Beach - MIE - Richard Bain 26-29 January - Abseiling, Blue Mountains, Kanangra Walls - L/RJW - Nic Bendeli 28-29 January - Guthega, Blue Cow Mt, Mt Perisher, The Paralyser - 5-MIE - Chris Roper January 28-29 Boltons Hut - M/M-R - Maurice Wicks

Saturday .4 February - Shoalhaven from Warri Bridge - S/E - Bill Brown Sunday 5 February - Currawan Creek and Falls - S/E-M - Ian Sinclair Saturday 11 February - Shoalhaven Blockup - S-MIM - Vance Brown 11-12 February - Yadboro, Clyde River, Castle Gap - S-M/E - Helen Stevens Tuesday 14 February Evening Walk Majura Ridge to Ainslie - S/E - Rene Lays Saturday 18 February - Goodradigbee Vegetarian Gourmet - S/E - Bill Brown (17)18-19 February - Snowy Mountain Day Walks - L/E - Don Davidson February Day walks In Monga Forest - Guy Cotsell & Morag Cameron 25-26 February - Goodradigbee River Via Harry's Spur M/E - Bill Brown 25-26 February Yadboro - Newhaven Gap Car SwapM - LIR -Mike Pedvin February/March - Boltans Hut Maintenance Weekend - Rod Peters 3 February -3 March - Chile and Argentina - L/E - David Truman.

5 March - Corang Peak & Admiration Point - M/E - Matt James 4-5 March Orroral to Ginini Car Swap M-L/E - Bill Brown liar 12 March - EndrickFalls - S/M/W - BillBrown Sunday 12 March - Mount Nungar to Tantangara Dam - L/M - Arthur Knight 11-12 March - Dubbo Falls - MJR - John & Margaret Cooper Sunday 19 March - Compo Canyon and London Bridge - L/E - Ron Waugh 18-20 March (Canberra Day) - Ben Boyd National Park - MIE - Janet & Paul Edstein 25-26 March - Ettrema, Myall Creek, Tullangella Creek - MIR - Bill Brown Ift Late March 1995 - Peppercorn Creek and Hill and Yarrangobilly Caves - MJEM - David Truman March - April 1995 - New Zealand Tracks - L/E - Barrie Chapman

April (easter(?) - Mallacoota to Wingan Inlet S/E - Bill Brown April - Bendethera caves, Deua NP - Ron Waugh April - Tin Hut via Disappointment Spur and Finns River - Margaret & John Cooper May-June 1995 - Kakadu - M/M - Helen Stevens - Trip filling, ring now 286 4334(h).

CDt It November1994 page 15 PdnI Post Approved Postage If undeftverode return to Paid GPO Box 160, Canbera ACT 2601 SURFACE CANBERRA KI All ACT 2601 41k AUSTRALIA

9/95 Reet VALLAK 5 FU11OOJ St (AER SHWALKI WESTON ACT 2611 CLUB

COMMITTEE 1994 -96 Home Work Fax

PRESIDENT Janet Edsteln 2881398 2058033 2058026 VICE PRESIDENT/TREASURER NIc Bendell 2521541 2070157 2070158 WALKS SECRETARY Alan VidIer 2545373 2723765 EDITOR David Truman 2546700 2724632 2725736 MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Roger Edwards 2887863 2954598 CONSERVATION OFFICER John Webster 2414646 PUBLISHER BIll Brown 2489948 2764704 2764791 ASSISTANT WALKS SECRETARY Michael Pedvin 2885751 2775177 SOCIAL SECRETARY Maurice WIcks 2588890 2501601 MINUTE SECRETARY James Ashbumer 2541666 2527934 2527934 CORRESPONDENCE SECRETARY Sylvia Sheffield 299 2430. MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: RING ROGER EDWARDS ON 2887863(h)