THE TRAILWALKER Tile NEWSLEITER of FRIENDS of OCTOBER 1994 ISSUE No

THE TRAILWALKER TilE NEWSLEITER OF FRIENDS OF OCTOBER 1994 ISSUE No. 49 TilE HEYSEN TRAIL AND OrnER WALKING TRAILS INC.

PRINT POST APPROVED PPS6S001 /00079 • •• •• •• ··71w7~w~·· •• •• • • ••

EDITORIAL

The "Trailwalker" is the mouthpiece and ears of its members. so if you have something to communicate regarding the walking trails throughout South Australia. please do so for the information of our readers through these columns. Essentially, of course, the primary function of the magazine is a communication link between the Project Officer and volunteers who mark and maintain the walking trails. landowners. Recreation S.A., local government authorities and those members who participate in the walking programme. It is an information source for all walkers about the state of the trails, the walking programme and the walking report. Ideally, those members who have joined primarily to participate in the walking programme will recognise the need of all walkers to contribute in some way towards the maintenance of our trails. whether as a volunteer with a working party or reporting problems noticed along the trails. lan Jays, our Project Officer, has made this opportunity available to all members by providing a Trail Report Form to be included with each issue. All Friends are urged to be observant and to report difficulties encountered with marking so that lan can arrange for problems to be rectified. Editorial Committee

The following new memberships are acknowledged and a warm welcome is extended from the President and members of Council. We look forward to your friendly participation in our activities.

Single

Chris Hyde Sheila Cook Jenny Russell Family G. Dierickx Mario Caresimo John and Jennie Price Carol Noble Isabel Nankivell Judy Eastham Robert Stott

CONSTITUTION

Assistance is sought from members. with appropriate expertise, in the preparation of a draft alteration relating to proxy votes. Please contact the President, Arthur Smith (261-6746).

ftTHE TRAILWALKER• IS PUBLISHED BY "THE "FRIENDS OF THE BEYSEN TRAIL AND OTHER WALKING TRAILS, INC." PROUDLY SPONSORED BY THE SOUTH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT THROUGH RECREA110N SA EDITOR: DOUG PAICE

Cover Photo: - WomenTrek

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PRESIDENT'S REPORT

After considerable discussion at Council and committee meetings, and meetings with Office of Recreation and Sport personnel, the Council has offered Friends' funds for trail projects as follows :-

Accommodation at Dutchman's Stern Conservation Park - $10000 Supply and installation of two water tanks and toilets at selected locations, up to $1000 each. Assistance with the installation of a bridge in Warren Conservation Park, up to $1700. Rossi Boots will also sponsor the supply and installation of a water tank and toilet. This generous donation is gratefully acknowledged.

It should be noted that the money going to hut accommodation will be an addition to a grant of money going to Adelaide Central Mission to employ homeless men on hut restoration projects, which are very labour intensive.

The Friends of the Heysen Trail will receive full recognition for these contributions.

Other matters that the Council and Walking Committee are currently investigating are insurance and our membership fee structure (the two are intertwined).

The Walking Federation has for some time been investigating an insurance scheme in which all affiliated clubs could take part. A group meeting with an Insurance Broker will take place in early November. It will then be a matter of the cost/benefits of what is offered in comparison with out present cover. I believe that in this day and age, it is irresponsible for any organisation conducting walks not to have appropriate cover against liability for walkers and leaders.

It is possible that the name and telephone number of one or two people who have volunteered to help with Trailwalker typing and or staffing the office have inadvertently been lost, probably by yours truly. If you have volunteered and have had no response, please forgive human frailty and renew your offer.

Arthur Smith, PRESIDENT

NOTICE

Office Hours - We are still having difficulty attracting enough volunteers to keep the office open every day. For the present, we hope to keep the office open during following hours. They may vary depending upon transport arrangements, etc. of volunteers.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Hopefully 9.30a.m.-2.45 p.m. Closed 9.30a.m.-2.45p.m. 9.30 a.m.- 9.30a.m.- 2.45p.m. 2.45p.m. every second Monday

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RECREATION S.A. - HEYSEN TRAIL UPDATE

WORKS PROGRAMME

RE-ROUTES

Map 1 - Due to current and future heavy logging in the Kuitpo Forest, several re-routes will be established. So far only one re-route is in place as this was the most urgent. The re-route begins approximately 200 metres north of Razorback Road and heads NNE along the fence-line at the edge of the pine plantation, then cuts south-easterly to the crossing of Jupiter Creek. Normally the trail would head easterly then northerly before heading easterly again to the crossing at Jupiter Creek. The new route will be safer and easier to follow. Once harvesting is completed in the area, the trail can be re-established along a more suitable route. Another re-route will be developed north of the crossing of Jupiter Creek as this area will be extensively harvested in the future. It is proposed that the trail follow the western boundary of the forest land next to the E& WS , Mount Bold catchment land until it reaches Long Gully near the Jupiter Creek Goldfields. The last re-route at Kuitpo will be in the Knott Hill area, north of Wicks Road. This area is being harvested now so an alternative route near the eastern boundary will be established shortly. It will mean the Onkeeta Trail section will be bypassed for a while as harvesting and plantation re-establishment is undertaken. Another change to the Trail will be put in place shortly. The Heysen Trail near Myler will now follow the Strathalbyn Road on the western side rather than the eastern verge. The change will not affect details on the map, but it will alter the trail on the ground. The new route will head north along the road after the Silver Lake Road corner for about 100 metres before heading into a Council reserve. The trail will follow the road through this reserve until it reaches the CFS Station where it will use an existing service road parallel to the main road. Once over the Aldgate Creek bridge the trail will cross the road and head for the Myler Recreation Reserve. This re-alignment provides a safer way through the town and over the bridge and also means walkers will not have to cross the road to visit shops or use a telephone.

Map 2- Mount Crawford Forest has also been affected by harvesting and replanting. One re route has been established on the eastern side of Warren Road , opposite Chalks campground due to the existing track being removed and planted with pines. The new route goes north along the fence for about 200 metres, then heads easterly before rejoining the Trail.

Another re-route in Mount Crawford takes walkers away from the South Para River crossing that has been frequently disturbed by flooding. The old route heads down off Little Mount Crawford then once over the fence turns to the east, crossing the river when it is low. The new route, after the fence, now heads westerly between the pine forest and the native scrub then heads north for a short time along a forest track before heading east again out to Mount Road. This re-route should remove some of the repetition of following the creek and reduce the risk of people attempting to cross the river when it is flowing.

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RE-MARKING

Map 8- Recently a Project Officer and two Jobskills workers spent a day replacing the silver droppers east of Fishery Beach to Campbell Creek (about three kilometres) with square wooden posts. It is hoped that the re-marking will reach Deep Creek within the next few months. At a later date replacement of the droppers with square posts will continue along the Trail.

Map 13 - Two Project Officers and two Jobskills workers spent several days in the Bundaleer Forest area re-marking the Trail with wooden posts. Marking began at Curnows Hut and continued through the forest west then south towards Wirrilla. In all, about twelve kilometres of trail was re-marked.

YOUTH TREK 94 - CLOSING CEREMONY

The Official closing ceremony of the Commonwealtb Bank Trek 94 was held at the Mount Lofty summit on Friday, 23 September. 1994. Trek 94 began in June this year when Marion High, the first of 41 school and community groups commenced the first stage from Mount Babbage in the northern Flinders Ranges. From there groups walked and cycled in relay the length of the Flinders and Mount Lofty Ranges and also the south coast of Kangaroo Island. The total disance that students covered in three and a half months was almost 2500 kms. The last three groups, Augusta Park High, St. Ann's Special School and the Adelaide Mountain Bike Club converged on Mount Lofty Summit where approximately 200 people celebrated the end of Trek and watched as Mrs. Dorothy Kotz, Member for Newland, accepted the students' journals, mascots, message sticks and banners which had travelled the entire distance with the groups. Mrs. Kotz applauded the project which develops students' appreciation of their natural environment and develops self-reliance and leadership skills by experiencing challenge, adventure and realistic decision making . Recreation S.A. thanks the sponsors of Trek 94 for their valuable support - Commonwealth Bank, Scout Outdoor Centre. Kangaroo Island Sealink, State Fleet and Mapland.

Anne Fisher, Trek 94 Co-ordinator . - Youth Trek 94 • ~ ~.:5 = -..J ·:- ;_;.-c ~ ~ ... ;;.;

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MAINTENANCE VOLUNTEER SECTION LEADERS

1. Cape Jervis to T apanappa Tim Stokes, Fleurieu Branch (085)58-2622 2. Tapanappa to Back Valley Road Peter Hill (H) (085)56-5213

3. Back Valley Road to Moon Hill Thelma Anderson (H) 278-4420

4. Moon Hill to Hindmarsh Tiers Road Kevin Riggall (H) 339-1855 (W) 207-8441 5. Hindmarsh Tiers Road to Bob Verrall and Jim Pearce Blackfellows Creek Road (H)382-8577 (W)372-5111 (W) 372-5111 6. Blackfellows Creek Road to Colin Malcolm (H) 382-2194 Wicks Road 7. Wicks Road to Glen Bold Klaus Hribar (H) 277-7249

8. Glen Bold to Piccadilly Jamie Shephard and Neville Southgate (H) 338-6223 (H) 364-2191 (W) 373-1422 (W) 410-4344 9. Piccadilly to Norton Summit Doug Leane I Liz O'Shea (H) 43-3388 (H) 352-1626 10. Norton Summit to Cud lee Creek Arthur Smith I Shirley Tavender (H) 261-6746 (H) 337-3692 11 . Cudlee Creek to Bethany Doug Leane (H) 43-3388

12. Bethany to Peters Hill Joyce Heinjus - Ph./Fax (085)25-2271 (W) (085)62-2022 13. Peters Hill to Georgetown Hugh Greenhill, Surra Branch (H) (088)43-8115 14. Georgetown to Spalding Ray Griffiths (C/o David Clark)- Mid-North Bushwalking Group (H) (086)36-2446 15. Spalding to Mount Brown Vacant 1 Trails Co-ordinator

16. Mount Brown to Hawker Vacant I Trails Co-ordinator

17. Hawker to Wilpena Vacant I Trails Co-ordinator

18. Wilpena to Parachilna Shayne Reschke, Leigh Creek Branch (H) (086)75-2885 (W) (086)75-4332

Project Officer lan Jays (H) 356-2220

MONADENIA - Introduced South African weed orchid is easily identified by maroon colour on the underneath side of soft, fleshy, bright green leaves. Flower stalks are just emerging from the centre of the plant giving a pineapple top appearance. Not to be confused with various species of the Australian native orchid, Thelymitra which may also display a similar colour on the underside of the leaf. Report all sightings for positive identification to Enid Robertson (278-4045) .

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Sir,

We were disappointed to read in the August edition of ''Trailwalker" that its future focus will be largely on trail maintenance and that "items relating to other aspects ...... will be welcomed and published as space permits". Apart from our own enjoyment of trip and walk reports, we ask the Committee to reconsider its decision for more serious reasons. A principal aim of the Friends is to provide a pool of volunteers to assist with maintaining the State's walking trails. These volunteers are drawn from the membership and communication with the members is therefore vital. In a perfect world all members would read their newsletter and quickly offer their services. Sadly, we do not live in a perfect world. It is estimated that less than 25% of members actually volunteer their help, many because of a genuine lack of time or skill but the majority because they joined the Friends primarily as walkers. Eventually, if they read the ''Trailwalker", some may volunteer. Of course, if they do not read it they will not even know they are needed. It is therefore of the utmost importance that members read their newsletter. To maximise the chances of anything being read it t:nust cater to the interests of its target population. Surely the overriding interest of the membership, helpers included, is walking. It is therefore essential that articles about walking are included if we are to reach potential helpers. Neither is this outside the Objects of the organisation, the first stated being "to promote public awareness and usage of ...... walking trails in South Australia". What better way to do this, and to attract new members, than to hand them a copy of "Trailwalker". Trip and walk reports can then give an idea of activities open to them if they join the Friends. You are the committee and ultimately your decision will prevail. However, spot checks among members suggest our views are shared. We therefore ask you to consider very, very carefully what you are doing to the Friends. Sincerely, Alvin and Kath Whittle

[You are correct in your assumption that the overriding interest of the membership is walking. However, the majority of the Friends' membership has affiliation with many and varied walking clubs within the State while their allegiance to the Friends is either for practical or symbolic support of the primary reason for the Friends' establishment, i. e. marking and maintaining the walking trail system throughout the State. No walking club in South Australia is funded , either wholly or in part, by the State Government through Recreation S.A., and Government funding provided to the Friends is specifically intended to support a programme of marking and maintaining walking trails by volunteers. The object of the Constitution "to promote public awareness and usage of the . .. . walking trails in South Australia" was never intended to be interpreted as development of the Friends as a walking club. The "Trailwalker" provides a communication link between volunteers, landowners, local government authorities, Recreation S.A., as well as the walkers. The Walking Committee is currently preparing a proposal for consideration by the Council to provide independence of a programme to cater for "walker only" members. Meanwhile, the ''Trailwalker" will continue to include details of the walking programme as well as suitable items submitted by walkers.] Ed.

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Sir,

After reading my last "Trailwalker", I reviewed all my past 41 editions starting at issue No. 7 of October, 1987, and I was delighted at the wonderful variety of front covers that have been used throughout that time. There was no doubt that Issue No. 48 of August, 1994 was the easiest to read with its large print, good black on white contrast and pleasing spacing between lines, paragraphs and articles. Congratulations! 1 hope this excellent presentation, at reasonable cost, can be maintained. However, on re-reading these past editions of "Trailwalker", it was obvious that the content of issue No. 48, August, 1994, was the least interesting of all. I was present at a General Meeting of the Friends when a member asked that reports of Council meetings be included in ''Trailwalker". This has occurred in this issue but does not make for interesting reading. Perhaps such information could be incorporated in the President's informal report instead. What do other members think? Anne Fisher's "Launch of Trek 94" was especially interesting to me as I was out of the State when this took place, but it was boring to read almost the same in "Launch of Commonwealth Bank Trek 94". Are there two different typists involved and two different proof readers that such obvious duplication can occur in one issue? Or was this a way of meeting the criticism over two blank pages in Issue 47? Again, in Issue 48 there were many blank spaces which could have been filled with a· quip, poem, sketch, map or cartoon. What has happened to the advertisements which used to be placed by the Scout Shop, Ecotrek, Youth Hostels, etc.? Do we not need the revenue or have they been frightened off? The blank spaces, if not needed for advertising, could have been filled with repeats of snippets from past issues of "Trailwalker". There have been numerous excellent articles which would be of interest to readers, particularly newer members. Information about the Friends' office and the books, maps, brochures available there and the information which is available about gear would have been helpful and taken up some of the blanks along with a continuation of the "Bulletin Board" where members can advertise. A resume of Peter Bird and his first class slide presentation at the recent social meeting (which was poorly attended) would have made an interesting articte, also. Finally, let us encourage more members to write and submit more articles for publication in ''Trailwalker". Stories of walks others have done all over the world seem to catch the imagination of readers so that they look forward to the next issue. Sincerely, Jennifer J. Dow

· "No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings."

-William Blake

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1994 WALKING PROGRAMME

The prograrmme shown below lists all the walks plannned for 1994 by the walking committee; Sunday, and week-end. Please note that a charge will be made for the week-end walks to cover associated costs. N.B. (N) and (S) indicate the location of the walk relative to the City, i. e. north or south.

OCTOBER

18-25 Backpacking Training Course Mark Darter

23 Friends Wirrina (S) Jennifer Dow

23 Friends Mt. Gawler (N) Sue Croser

29-30 Weekender Backpacking Practical Mark Darter

NOVEMBER

4-6 Weekender Innes National Park To be advised

13 Intra Morialta Colin Edwards

~ c)) Friends Wirra Wirra Peaks (N) Norm Taylor

~ ..l7 Friends Hills Mt. Barker area (S) Jamie Shephard

Women Trek

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WALKING REPORT

We are now into the latter part of this year's programme and members of our Committee are at the stage of formatting some ideas for 1995. Next year we intend to run our Introductory Walks on the second Sunday of the month and Friends (longer, more demanding) walks on the fourth Sunday as we have done over the past couple of years. Whilst our week-ends have been well received, we feel one week long walk will possibly suffice. Summer walks, special days and Eco Walks will still be on our agenda. At times it is very difficult to get leaders for these walks resulting in some having to be cancelled. If you can spare the time to lead a walk (day or week-end) our Committee will be pleased to hear from you. During August Michael Fretwell co-ordinated a week-end of walking in the Pichi Richi area. Our group stayed at the Pichi Richi Holiday Centre. Saturday's walk was in the Mount Brown area and on the Sunday we walked in Dutchman's Stern Conservation Park. Thank you Mike for your leadership over this week-end. Mark Darter and Christina Tassell have agreed to conduct two evening information sessions at the Scout Outdoor Centre prior to a practical week-end on 29 and 30 October, 1994. This will probably be in the Mount Crawford Forest area and there are still places available for people interested in backpacking. We can make arrangements for the loan of tents, large backpacks, Trangias, etc. This is a good way to get started and I can assure you this can open up a world of new experiences. We are not closing the door to persons who have already backpacked, we will be pleased to have you come along. On the week-end of 4 to 6 November, 1994, we intend to walk in Innes National Park. John Crouch, a resident of Yorke Peninsula, will be leading walks in this area and our group will be staying at Old lnneston. These week-ends offer our members a chance to get away for the week-end at a minimal cost. Please ring the office and we will send you information for this trip. If you are interested in spending a few hours one day a week helping out in the office in Pitt Street with walking associated duties could you please let Arthur Smith or myself know. We are also interested to hear from our walkers who would like to put an article in "Trailwalker". Let us have your copy as our members gain inspiration from your stories. This all helps to get more people out there walking thus encouraging a healthy and inexpensive lifestyle. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our leaders of our day walks (Introductory and Friends) during this year. I am well aware of the amount of effort put in doing reccys for these walks. Hoping you will continue to help us in 1995. Happy walking for the remainder of the season.

Sadie Leupold

GREENING COMMITTEE

Following the resignation of Colin Dunncliff, we are now without a Co-ordinator for the valuable work of this vital aspect of the Friends' activities. If you are able to assist as leader of this enthusiastic group, will you please contact the President, Arthur Smith, (261-6746) for further information.

MONADENIA ERADICATION PROGRAMME - If you can assist in this important activity, please contact Enid Robertson, (278-4045).

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PROJECT OFFICER, FRIENDS OF THE HEYSEN TRAIL

First, let me iontroduce myself, lan Jays. I have been appointed by the Friends of the Heysen Trail Council and Recreation S.A. to co-ordinate all of our efforts in trail maintenance, inspection, development and to train our volunteers in all aspects of trail work. I have been busy setting up a register of members who have recently indicated they are willing to participate in ongoing and future trail work. These members will be essential to support our established Section Leaders who each have a designated area of the trail under their supervision. We still need Section Leaders for areas in the mid north to far north to cover the areas from Hughes Gap to Mount Brown, Hawker and Wilpena. If we are unable to get section leadership due to the remoteness and the lack of population centres in this region, we may have to form volunteer work groups willing to spend a short period away, on what could be interesting development and maintenance work expeditions. One of our priorities is for inspection of the Trails, the setting up of a simple reporting system . I have included a Trail Report Form in this issue of "Trailwalker". This will enable Friends, whilst participating in walking activities, to note items of concern to be reported back to me for any necessary action. These reports will be most important, especially in remote regions not often inspected and will provide essential feedback on trail conditions. · We will be running a number of one day practical Workshops soon on the marking and construction methods, illustrated in the Recreation S.A. Trail Construction Manual. The week-end one day workshops will be held at the Recreation S.A. facilities at Mylar. Volunteers interested in attending, please let me know, either by writing or a phone message to the office; workshop dates are to be advised later. Thank you to those members who have volunteered their services for trail work. I am sure that together, working in teams we can support the Friends and Recreation S.A. in maintaining the continued development of the Heysen Trail and other Trails. This will ensure the total coverage on this long distance walking trail, which is a very valuable asset for both the Friends and the public of South Australia.

lan Jays, Project Officer

FEDERATION OF S.A. WALKING CLUBS

The Federation is again planning to celebrate the opening of the Walking Season in April, 1995, in co-operation with Recreation S.A., with a Walking Extravaganza. Outstanding efforts this year by a special committee within the Federation, combined with assistance from Friends of the Heysen Trail, Australian Retired Persons Association, numerous walking groups, and allied organisations, provided a highly successful launch of this long-awaited time of the year. BUT, help is NOW urgently required by the organising committee, in various areas of planning and promotion of the event. Your services would be greatly appreciated and would undoubtedly contribute to the success of the 1995 occasion. Please contact lan McDougall (338-2136)and offer your assistance.

MONADENIA (destructive weed orchid) is now coming into bud. If you can positively identify it, remove it. If not, advise Enid Robertson (278-4045) of its location.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT TO FRED BROOKS - VOLUNTEER

Fred Brooks, now well into his seventies, has worked assiduously as a volunteer with the Friends of the Heysen Trail since the inception of the organisation in 1986. He became a walker and leader of Common Venturers Bushwalking Club following a quintuplet heart by-pass fourteen years ago. With the establishment of the Friends', Fred, as a member of the Interim Committee, threw himself wholeheartedly into organising workshops to train volunteers in trail marking methods and co-ordinating members to attend the workshops conducted by the staff of Recreation S.A. It was critical that volunteers receive practical instruction to ensure consistency of marking throughout the Heysen Trail. Fred has been a member of many of the projects undertaken by the Friends to overcome obstacles to the continuity of the Trail, including the first major project - construction of a "sand ladder" to protect the delicate sand dune vegetation in the path of the Trail at Waitpinga Beach on the south coast. This particular task firmly established a very high reputation of volunteerism for the Friends and many other projects followed with Fred Brooks always there to do more than his share. Fred could not wait for the initial survey of the Heysen Trail from Microwave Tower to be marked and moved in as soon as possible with his team of volunteers to install markers, logos and stiles as the Trail stretched towards the Barossa. Within the Friends' he quickly established responsibility for marking the Trail to Bethany and maintaining the section between Chain of Ponds and Bethany. Another of Fred's great achievements on the walking trails is the Giant Staircase on the Mount Lofty Walking Trail in the Warren Conservation Park. He also installed markers along many kilometres of this Trail from Watts Gully Road through the Warren and the Hale Conservation Parks. The list is endless! Fred recently took time out to travel to Darwin and to visit scenic areas en route, but unfortunately, illness cut short his holiday plans and after a stay in hospital he returned home with medical instructions to curtail physical activity. Reluctantly, though wisely, Fred is now aware that he must strictly heed the advice. His efforts and dedication have gone a long way towards establishing mutual respect and co-operation between landowners, park rangers, foresters and the bushwalking community generally. Numerous offers of assistance in transporting materials with farm equipment onto isolated sections of the Trail were made to and gratefully accepted by Fred. Although he will no longer be on the Trail swinging the sledge hammer and performing heavy tasks, Fred will still be taking an interest in what will always be known as his section of the Heysen Trail, as well as carrying out light duties in his workshop at home for the volunteers who will be continuing to uphold the fine example of a truly great volunteer. Well done, Fred!

Thelma Anderson

"From deep in the gorge From the abundant trees And the moulded stone Cast from -the fa»mg str~~m Uke a misting drifting breath, A waterfall of tumbling dreams."

From "A Book of Verse" by B. Kenny

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Colin Malcolm

Fred Brooks

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RESIGNATION OF VICE-PRESIDENT COLIN MALCOLM

It was with genuine regret that the Council, at its last meeting, accepted the resignation of Colin Malcolm from the position of Vice President. Colin became a Foundation Member of the Friends at the inaugural meeting of the organisation in June, 1986 and has served as a member of the Council since 1987. He volunteered his services as Voluntary Trails Co-ordinator during an important period of the process of marking the Heysen Trail through the mid-north. His dedicated efforts and organisation of volunteers greatly assisted the completion of our eventual goal - Heysen Trail, 1500km in length. Colin was born in Somerset in the United Kingdom and lived on top of the Mendip Hills - hence his obsession for climbing to the top of every hill in his path ! He started walking from necessity at an early age as school was two miles from home and there was no public transport. Colin came to Australia in 1960. He has walked for pleasure for many years with his wife, Anne and has enjoyed introducing people with disabilities to the pleasures of bushwalking, including a walk along a section of the Heysen Trail. He has an intimate knowledge of the Heysen Trail and with Anne has walked the entire length of the Trail. He continues to walk regularly and is an active member of Noarlunga Bushwalkers, organising week-end camps from time to time. Colin is a keen conservationist and amateur naturalist and is well-known as President of the Friends of Onkaparinga Park where he has worked tirelessly with member volunteers in wide-ranging activities - tree planting, eradication of introduced species including boneseed and olives, bnidge building and many environmentally related social occasions for the interest of members. Colin and Anne received recognition for their efforts through the Friends of Parks group with the inclusion in the list of 100 most notable supporters of National Parks in 1991 and in 1993 Colin received the Rotary Volunteer of the Year Award. He is now retired but, of course, busier than ever and wonders how he ever had time to go to work! However, he is continuing his association with the Friends as a volunteer Sectional Maintenance Leader in the Kuitpo Forest area where his volunteer trail-marking expertise will be invaluable. Congratulations Colin, on your outstanding record of service to the Friends' Council.

Thelma Anderson

Who piled these gigantic rocks With so steady a hand, Moulded the hills and valleys And clothed them all so grand?

What pre-planned perfection Caused it all to begin, And carry on so unassisted Through aeons and years therein?

-8. Kenny

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MID-NORTH BUSHWALKING AND CYCLING CLUB INC.

The section of the Heysen Trail is maintained by members of the Mid-North Bushwalking and Cycling Club, Inc. who, as a club, have accepted responsibility for maintaining a section of the Heysen Trail. There are two Heysen Huts in this section; one at Bowman Park, marked on Map 13, and one 3 km east of Georgetown, known as Hiskey's Hut that is not marked on the map but is indicated as "Ruin". A re-route 7 km east of Georgetown now passes "Sam's Hut'' for the crossing of the Rocky River. The children from Ashford Special School walked our section between 20 and 22 August, 1994 as part of TREK 94. I walked and camped with them and during the walk we carried out maintenance at a water crossing by removing falien branches and putting in stepping stones to assist waikers. it was interesting to observe the group's method of foilowing the trail markers and using the stiles. A few more maintenance tasks were added to the list. A small group of workers spent Sunday, 28 August, 1994 on maintenance of the Heysen Trail in the Crystal Brook area. Mid-afternoon was spent looking for a new bushwalking area. Late afternoon, as we returned to our vehicies in Crystal Brook, we met up with two tired Heysen Trail walkers ; John Crouch and friend Gerry Aistrops who had walked from Cape Jervis to Crystal Brook on their way to walking the entire length of the Trail in a single season. I recalled Thelma Anderson's W.E.A. Ramblers report where the working party met up with Jim Pearce and Bob Verrall who were walking the entire Trail (for the second time!). It would be interesting to find out how many have walked the entire length of the Heysen Trail and whether it was done in stages or continuous in one season. I'm sure it must be a dream of many walkers to walk the entire length of the Heysen Trail, just because it is there. I do!

Ray Griffiths

FEDERATION OF S.A. WALKING CLUBS

A difference of opinion between Stirling Council and the Federation, supported by local residents, is currently taking place in regard to the undeveloped sedion of Surrey Road at Aldgate. This public access route provides safe walking to link with adjoining walking lanes leading to a former network walking trail which crosses Aldgate Creek and provides a piease:u 1t, recreational activity for both local residents and members of groups who do nut wish to travel iong distances for their weekly, or fortnightly, waik. However, Stirling Council, in an effort to raise money, wishes to seii Surrey Road to adjoining landowners in spite of a decision made by Council on 25 Juiy, 1994 iu uphold objections to the proposed closure and to retain a walkway. This should t1av& cum.:iuded the transaction but engineering staff advised Council that it wouid be necessary to rescind a resolution passed at an earlier meeting to sell the road. At the meeting on 12 September, 1994, a motion to rescind the original decision to seii the road was lost. This has now been interpreted as Council's decision to sell the road and this is where the matter now rests. These valuable, safe, public access routes throughout the Adelaide Hills MUST BE PROTECTED, so write now to Stirling Council and defend our walking trails.

Thelma Anderson, Road Reserves Secretary

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OFFICIAL OPENING OF SANDY CREEK YHA HOSTEL

The official opening of the recently renovated stone farmhouse, situated in the grounds of the Sandy Creek Conservation Park, was attended by representatives of various walking groups and organisations on Sunday, 28 August, 1994. The farmhouse, known as "The Vale" is situated on a former farm property previously owned by Sir Keith and Lady Wilson. In 1990, the Wilson family and the National Parks Foundation combined to transfer the property as an addition to the Sandy Creek Conservation Park. The National Parks and Wildlife Service had no plans for the building which had no major heritage value and was destined for either demolition or decline. The estimated age of the building is approximately 100 years, and as it had not been occupied for many years, its renovation to a habitable state for use as a hostel, became a challenge for members of the Y.H.A. YHA rose to the occasion and organised regular work parties to combine volunteer labour and professional builders to achieve the end result of an ideal haven for weary walkers and travellers in an ideal environment within the Conservation Park. Lady Wilson performed the official opening at a well attended ceremony at Sandy Creek when invited guests were entertained and enjoyed a tour of inspection of the building and the surrounding Park environs with its uniqu~ vegetation. Sixteen WomenTrek walkers were privileged to be the first occupants of the Hostel recently as groups of various numbers wended their way south from Blinman and Parachilna to meet other groups from Cape Jervis at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden on Sunday, 9 October, 1994 for the final celebration of the centenary of women's suffrage. The Sandy Creek Hostel has been tastefully decorated with the new roof in heritage green contrasting with cream woodwork externally and white, cream and green used inside in the new bathrooms and soft furnishings. Walkers using the Hostel, situated in a delightful bushland environment, can look forward to a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere at the end of a hard day's walk.

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SUMMARY OF COUNCIL MEETING -AUGUST, 1994

Resignations Resignations were received from Colin Malcolm and David Orr.

Employment Contract for Project Officer The President had informally discussed the Contract with an officer of Crown Law Department regarding various concerns he holds.

New Brochure Price of producing a new brochure for Friends' has been obtained from State Print.

Appointment of Secretary Janice Clarke was acting as Minute Secretary. The President suggested that Janice be appointed as Secretary following receipt of resignation from Mike Fretwell.

Financial Report $35,000 in term deposits, $13,000 in cheque account , $8,000 in passbook account. $43,000 is available for capital works. $13,000 operating capital. Approximately $3,000 liabilities. The Treasurer advised a Notice of Motion for the next Annual General meeting for an increase in Single Membership to $15 per annum and Family Membership to $24 per annum. A resolution was carried to appoint Janice Clarke as Secretary and to employ her on a casual basis for 7.5 hours per week at $100, plus on-costs.

Walking Successful week-end at Pichi Richi. Colin Edwards would be leader for Grampians week as Mike Fretwell is unavailable. Reference made to thefts from Chookarloo Camping Ground Walkers should be made aware of risk.

Maintenance Peter Hill suggested that one week-end each month be allocated to maintenance whilst working in with Walking and Greening Committees.

Federation Bill Gehling has resigned as President and Peter Beer has been appointed to the position. Willunga railway line proposed for combined walking, cycling, horseriding use.

SOCIAL MEETING

The next Social Meeting will be held on Friday, 9 December, 1994 at Girl Guides Association, 278 South Terrace, Adelaide, at 7.30 p.m. The Guest Speaker will be

ROGER JACKSON, ABORIGINAL CULTURAL INSTRUCTOR, TANDANYA

Roger is from the Adnyamathanha people, Fl1inders Ranges and is highly sought after as a speaker. We are very privileged to have him attend our meeting. The programme will include slides and guitar. DON'T MISS A RARE OPPORTUNITY TO HEAR THIS INTERESTING AND INFORMED SPEAKER. Tea and coffee will be served. Please bring a plate of light supper.

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GAMMONS T,RIP REPORT

There were twenty people all told - the accommodation limit- and we travelled in convoy through green croplands to Balaklava and Jamestown. Lunch at the public reserve at Hawker and then on through Blinman to arrive at Balcanoona in late afternoon. The shearers' quarters were basic, but adequate. There were good cooking and storage facilities around a long communal table in a central room , and two-person bedrooms ranged on either side around the thick stone building. With an 8.00 a.m. start on the first day we walked in bright sunshine along Balcanoona Creek through the towering brown cliffs of Weetootla Gorge. From Weetootla Spring, we crossed open country with views across lllinawortina Pound to the red cliffs of Mt. McKinlay Bluff. Lunch was at Grindell Hut, which carried sombre memories of a murder in 1918. A pleasant creek walk took us back to the vehicles where an adult emu and six chicks were mooching about. Next morning a rewarding drive led into another area of the National Park. Kangaroos and euros bounded from the vehicles as we passed our first clumps of Sturt Desert Pea, and aquamarine parrots flitted through the scrub. The walk began with a strong climb from Wortupa Well, to open up views of Lake Frome to the east. Strong scents of curry bush hung in the warm air and a final section of native pines took us to the promised 'Hill 740'. A ridge walk through spinifex gave a new perspective to lllinawortina Pound and Mt. McKinlay. We took lunch· on the heights and Arthur's compass plotting gave us a scrambly descent back to a pleasant creek line. In the final section, the creek passed through cliffs of slate, with dark blue shading to maroon. From Old Bolla Bollana Smelters next day we walked to the nearby Spring to send a yellow-footed rock wallaby skittering away across a low ridge. A colourful creek - stones of green, pink, grey and white - took us to Nooldoonooldoona Waterhole, which is even more remarkable than its name. A deep, clear waterhole is surrounded on all sides by precipitous granite cliffs. Sand and pebbles border the water and white gums and native pines grow from impossible crevices in the cliff faces. It is a special place. After an abortive attempt to locate a waterfall marked on the map, a creek with sparkling mica amongst its rocks led us close to the start point, then a final lift over a high saddle to detour via the Pinnacles, back to arkaroola. A gathering of two wedge-tailed eagles and a small murder of crows stopped us next morning, to find the carcass of an emu which had been hit by a vehicle. We walked through Welcome Pound to Mara Murumuru Waterhole; jade green water beneath chocolate brown cliffs. Arkaroola Creek took us through a Streeton landscape of young gums to pass Stubbs Waterhole. An enthralling diversion through Bararranna Gorge offered a cobalt sky above cliffs of purple and brown, with rocks scored by ripples from the bed of an ancient sea. A final track section gave a glimpse of another "yellow-foot" above a copse of Native Orange trees. We stopped for photos at Ochre Cliffs on the return drive. Back to Balcanoona National Park for the last day. ltalowie Creek took us through White Paperbark scrub to pass the spot where A.M. Williams first produced stockwear boots, belts and so on. The track took us to a low saddle from which a reccy party made a long climb to view the exit line planned for the end of the day. An eagle drifted above on thermal currents. After re-grouping, we walked to lunch in the shade at Mt. McKinlay Springs. From there things bacame a little tricky. Our exit creek followed white-pink bedrock beneath narrowing orange cliffs. Finally a deep waterhole blocked our path. We retreated to attempt a compass walk across broken foothills beneath Mt. McKinlay. It

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was slow going and with only about three hours of daylight left, Arthur decided that we should retrace our steps. It was a wise choice and we regained the vehicles in good order. We were rewarded on the dirve back with photos at a series of lush displays of Sturt Desert Pea. Rick proposed a toast of thanks to Arthur that night for excellent planning and leadership, a magnificent wilderness area, superb weather and good companions.

Chris Bagley

THE LARAPINTA WALKING TRAIL

The West MacDonnell National Park was Australia's newest when it was gazetted in 1992 after the Northern Territory Government acquired 170,000 ha. from five cattle stations that bordered a string of small parks totalling 40,000 ha. Ten rangers based at Ormiston Gorge and Simpson's Gap manage the park. Bush camps and walking tracks have been set up. The Larapinta Walking Trail is fast g~aining an international reputation among bushwalkers as one of the great long-distance walks ill the world. Eventually, it will extend 220 km west from Alice Springs to Mt. Razorback through the above National Park. It is well defined, with distance markers at 1km intervals. Four stages, covering 87kms, have been completed and attract some 100 walkers per week. Bush camps with water, toilet and shelter are placed midway in each stage. When in Alice Springs recently, Glen and I visited the Tourist Information Centre. The Alice Springs Bushwalkers programme was displayed prominently, with stage one of the Larapinta Trail planned for the next day. Stage One is 23 kms long, but can be shortened by 4 kms by starting at the Charles Rice Bridge instead of the Telegraph Station. We registered for the day's walk. The leader arranged cars to be positioned at Simpson's Gap before the group took taxis to the Bridge to start the day's adventure. In all, there were 12 walkers- four from Alice Springs, two from Manchester, U.K., two from Switzerland, two from New South Wales and we two from Adelaide, with ages ranging from 20 plus to 60 plus. We had a wonderful day. The views from the cliff tops and escarpments were fantastic; the plants in the valleys fascinating; the colours amazing; and the terrain rough and, at times, rugged. (Boots are to be recommended.) Lunch was eaten at Wallaby Gap. No! This "Gap" is not mentioned in tourist brochures, nor Fairy and other Springs, accessible only by foot. Eventually, we dropped down into the public car park at Simpson's Gap and joined the regular day trippers who had arrived by car and bus to view the wonderful Gap. ''Trailwalker" readers will appreciate our satisfaction at walking the 19 kms to Simpson's Gap. The following day, Glen and I again took a taxi to the Charles Price Bridge. This time, we walked east to the Telegraph Station, thus completing Stage One of the Larapinta Trail. The length of each stage is such that a car shuttle is necessary. However, twice a month, the National Park Rangers conduct week-end walks along a section. They provide transport at each end and carry equipment to the overnight camp, so that walkers need a day pack only. Walkers provide their own food and swag. At $20, this means a wonderfully cheap walking weekend.

Jennifer Dow

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WOMENTREK

The Grande Finale of the WomenTrek project - celebrating the centenary of women's suffrage - will be held on Sunday, 9 October, 1994 when women walking the Heysen Trail and the Hahndorf Women 's Heritage Trail will converge at the Mount Lofty Botanic Garden at 3.00 p.m. Groups of women and girls from all walks of life, including politicians and primary school students, have trekked in groups along the Heysen Trail between Blinman and Cape Jervis, camped in tents and huts by streams, in forests and parks; others have taken part in camel-riding, horse-riding, cycling and rickshaw-carting. All have shared a warm companionship in this unique celebration of the historic centenary of women's suffrage. Co-operation has been paramount in conducting this enormous exercise - co operation between the organisers - Deb Nanschild and Chris Hales of Women of the Wilderness and Y.W.C.A. - right through the line of sponsors, leaders, landowners and more than 700 participants. All have contributed immensely to the outstanding success of the venture. Support vehicles provided by Toyota and Mitsubishi enabled tents, sleeping and cooking gear, food and spare clothing to be transported to the numerous overnight camp sites by a team of enthusiastic and competent volunteer women drivers. Their resourcefulness and enterprise in coping with challenging situations in order to arrive at each night's camp site, particularly in the Flinders Ranges, is gratefully acknowledged by the walking participants and deserving of high commendation. This day-packing facility provided an opportunity for many more women to participate than would otherwise have been possible. Wine-bottling at Seppeltsfield was another highlight of WomenTrek. With the aid of barrels of Tawny Port, clear plastic tubing, corks and labels, plus a great deal of hilarity and advice from bystanders, members of various groups of walkers assembled to transfer the contents of the barrels into bottles. and to label, cork and number them , ready for sale at the closing ceremony. The ~~ Journey's End 11 at Mount Lofty Botanic Garden will, in itself, be an historic occasion when all members of WomenTrek can celebrate their own personal achievement through individual participation in the event.

Thelma Anderson Women Trek

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IT COULDN'T HAPPEN TO ME!

It had not happened to me in 35 years' walking and camping. I have walked the length of the mapped portion of the Heysen Trail, albeit it took me and my two companions ten years. I have been a Scout Leader for longer than I care to remember and in all that time it has never happened to me. Most of my walking has been carrying a rucksack with all my gear in it. Lately, my companions and I have become more the gentlemen walkers. We have stayed in caravan parks or hotels and on a couple of memorable occasions we even tested the comfort of the grandstands with permission from the Mid-North local councils. Evening meals have always been in the local hotels and very good cheap meals they have been. The accompanying red wine has usually been good quality and cheap as well . Two cars are needed for this sort of walking and it has never happened to us while doing these gentlemen walks. It has not happened interstate either when we have hiked across the Bogong High Plains in Victoria (a beautiful area in summer), nor has it happened while hiking in the Grampians. I have climbed Mount Kosciusko and it did not happen. When we hiked in the Wilson's Promontory National Park for four days it did not happen. With the scouts I have canoed almost all of the South Australian section of the River Murray and it has never happened. Nor has it happened ever on any camps the scouts have been on in the many different areas of the State. But it did happen! Of course you guessed it would! It happened in Kuitpo Forest at the Chookarloo campsite one night. It also happened to one of the scouts in our group of fourteen. Two of us had some of our gear stolen while asleep in our tents. The value of the gear stolen totalled about $1500. Our gear was not left lying about outside - it was put under the tent fly, in the vestibule that modern hike tents have. When we awoke and found the gear missing it was very scary because we had been sleeping next to the gear. Not one of our party heard or saw anything unusual that night. Another leader did hear a car at about 3.30 a.m. When looking for the gear on Sunday morning we found some of the equipment near a still warm campfire. We also noticed the small reddish orange car and small blue tent near where we found the fire, were gone. The moral of the story is to check your insurance policy to ensure you are covered. I was not!

PONY RIDGE ROAD

Negotiations between Recreation S.A. and Mitcham Council relating to access along Pony Ridge Road are continuing and members are assured that a walking trail will be marked as soon as this sensitive issue is amicably resolved. In the meantime, your co-operation, and patience, are sought in delaying walking activity in this area until the correct route is clearly defined.

"Silence is not always tact and it is tact that is golden, not silence." -Samuel Butler

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VOLUNTEERS ON THE TRAIL

DUTCHMAN'S STERN TO QUORN Doug Leane and Earle Laurence have recently adjusted eight stiles along the section of Heysen Trail between Dutchman's Stern and Quorn by the addition of a step. ''Assist poles" have also been installed on eieven stiles in this section to assist walkers, particuiariy those iaden with overnight backpacks, to negotiate the fences.

FOUR SEASONS WALKING CLUB On Tuesday, 20 September, 1994, members of the Four Seasons Walking Group enjoyed a delightfui waik through the Warren and Hale Conservation Parks. Led by Doug Leane, there was of course more to the day's outing than waiking. Equipped with appropriate tools, the party was invoiv~ti in a traii trimming exercise in addition to the collection and removai of irtter aiony the Traii.

MOUNT CRAWFORD Members will be pleased to know that volunteers have installed thirty erosion barriers on the steep, north facing slope of Mount Crawford. Doug Leane anticipates that an additional forty-five erosion barriers wHI be installed to complete the task in due course, as supplies become available.

W.E.A. RAMBLERS Another working party has been organised by this active group to carry out maintenance in Yulte Conservation Park on Sunday, 6 November, 1994. Work will include removal of overhead obstructions, trail trimming and generai maintenance to the marking. Volunteers will meet at Thebarton Town Hall Car Park at 9.00 a.m. on Sunday, 6 November, 1994 or at the road junction near the toilet block at Myponga at 9.45 a.m. Visitor volunteers are invited to join this enthusiastic group for a pleasant day's outing in deiightfui company. Bring your own toppers or secateurs if you own either tool.

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OPENING OF TOM ROBERTS HORSE-RIDING TRAIL

In crisp weather conditions at Cherry Gardens on Sunday, 28 August, 1994, a large group of outdoor enthusiasts - horseriders, cyclists and walkers - gathered for the official opening of the first 20 kilometres of the Tom Roberts Horseriding Trail by the Hon. John Oswald, M.P.. Minister of Recreation, Sport and Racing. The Trail has been developed over the past two years by a dedicated team consisting of officers from Recreation S.A, the Happy Valley Horseriding Association and the Corporation of the City of Happy Valley. The Trail gently winds through the picturesque valleys of Cherry Gardens and will eventually continue into Belair National Park then through to the Kersbrook Forest, creating a 200 km recreational horseriding Trail. Tom Roberts was an instructor to the South Australian Mounted Police following service in World War II with the Australian Field Regiment in Palestine, Egypt and Libya. He wrote numerous articles for the Australian horse magazine "Hoofs and Horns" under the penname "Weedon" and was editor of the magazine "S .A. Rider" for several years. He was born in 1900 and died at the age of 89 . Tom Roberts' wife, Pat, attended the opening ceremony. Since 1981 , Paul Mabarrack of the Happy Valley Horseowners Association has been the moving force behind bringing councils and government together to achieve the eventual goal of creating horseriding trails throughout Sooth Australia

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LOST IN THE GAMMONS ! - JULY, 1993

ONE SET OF TENT POLES FOR A NORTH FACE OVAL INTENTION

It looks like six (three different sizes) light blue alumium poles in a white nylon bag They were left on the minor track running north-east, not far from the Information sign at ltalowie Gorge. (GR 245 180) Any information about these would be appreciated. Althought lost in 1993, it has only been realised this year that they were missing. Kris Mosher- Phone 226-7010 or 396-3304

RECYCLE!

Help take care of our natural environment by putting your rubbish in recycling or rubbish bins. REMEMBER, PACK IT IN AND PACK IT OUT! HERE'S HOW LONG LITTER LASTS :

ALUMINIUM CANS 80-1 00 YEARS GLASS BOTTLES 1 million YEARS PLASTIC BAGS 10-20 YEARS PLASTIC COATED PAPERS 5 YEARS PLASTIC FILM CONTAINERS 20-30 YEARS NYLON FABRIC 30-40 YEARS RUBBER BOOT SOLES 50-80 YEARS LEATHER UP TO 50 YEARS WOOL SOCKS 1-5 YEARS BANANA PEEL 2-5 WEEKS CIGARETTE BUTTS 1-5 YEARS

IVY

Grow ivy up your chimneys, Grow ivy up your walls, Grow ivy up your telegraph poles, But please, No ivy up your trees.

Ivy is slowly, but surely, decimating our native vegetation, particularly various species of Eucalyptus. In higher rainfall areas of the Adelaide Hills - Stirling, Aldgate, Bridgewater - ivy has become very aggressive and residents in these districts seem totally unaware of the destructive and consuming nature of its rapid growth as, in copycat fashion, it is repeatedly planted by residents at the base of the comparatively rare stringybark tree. It is also strangling a number of outstanding Eucalyptus rubida specimens along the Heysen Trail between the railway line and the Bridgewater Hotel as the Trail approaches the Old Mill from the railway aqueduct. How can we stop its rampant growth? It is up to each of us to come up with a solution before it is too late!