THE CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB INC. NEWSLETTER it GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601 VOLUME 40 July 2004 NUMBER 7

JULY GENERAL MEETING 8pm Wednesday 21st South West Tasmania Speaker: Bob Hodgson Bob will be speaking on a 1980 trip in South West Tasmania to South West Cape and the Western Arthurs. The trip was notable for the beautiful weather and fantastic scenery, the slides making what Bob considers his best photographic trip record.. Robertson Room, St. John's Church Hall Constitution Avenue, Reid Make the most of the evening and join other members at 6.00pm for a convivial meal at the Vietnam Restaurant, 8-10 Hobart Place, Canberra City (opposite Canberra House Arcade, next to Aussie Home Loans) Try to be early to ensure there will be ample time to finish and still get to the meeting in good time were twelve club members, of I was in Namadgi that day on the PRESIDENT’S whom Sue and Allan Vidler, Rene Smokers Trail-Orroral Valley cross Lays and Reet Vallet are still PRATTLE over walk with Terence Uren and active. They started walking at Janet Edstein, the tenth successive Cotter Gap, lunched at Little Namadgi National Park (NP) year they have run it, which must Creamy Flat, then headed over turned 20 last month or, to be be a club record. It was nearly full Mt Namadgi to Rotten Swamp to precise, the decision to establish as usual, with 16 people going camp. It rained that night without the Park was taken in June 1984 uphill with Terence (Orroral Valley too many ill effects - they all got with the actual declaration in to Smokers Trail) and 13 downhill back but when the Vidlers dropped October. The birthday party was with Janet. Terence and Janet are the Knights home, both Senator on 6 June at the Visitor’s Centre. both long term leaders - Terence and wife found it hard to move. Several club luminaries attended has led about 140 walks all up and The trip was one of the events and there was a photographic Janet about 80 and we thank them which in time led to the establish- display of work by Michael for all that effort. ment of the Park. A rerun of this Maconachie and Steven Shaw, two This club was much involved in the walk will be held in October. See of our members who should be formation of Namadgi. In October it for details. making calendars and post cards 1976, several members took the with their pictures. The club also We walk elsewhere of course – then John Haslem MP, Member for received a positive mention for our Kosciusko, Wadbilliga, Deua, the Canberra, and the late Senator John long-term work to remove Broom Blue Mountains and others, even Knight and Mrs Knight for a walk in the Upper Cotter. the unpronounceable Yannunun- in what is now Namadgi. There beyan NP near has

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 1 been yielding up mysteries to us skills: to put aside time to do next be made to the people already on lately. But if Namadgi is our home year’s training refresher. the list who have not yet claimed a away from home, the Morton reimbursement. We hope that it On the same subject, I would National Park, with its majestic will be possible to open the list to encourage all those on a trip to take structures like the Byangee Walls new people once we know the a map and compass. In fact, it used and the beauty of places like outcome of the current application to be common practice in the club. Monolith Valley, must be second. for further grant funding but for the It enables independent checks on time being, the list will have to National Parks operate under Plans navigation and is an element in the close. of Management. I remember the security of people in case of club committee discussing the draft separation. And there is nothing The Committee considers the Morton Plan in my lounge room like an academic debate on “where additional $700 will be a good some years ago and not agreeing we are”, although these days a GPS investment in the future and it will with each other or with everything often takes the steam out of a not have a substantial impact on in the Plan, but the club is a good heated exchange. For those that the budget outlook for the coming corporate citizen and complies with need it, it’s an opportunity to hone year. As this would increase the the decisions of those running the up the skills. Remember though budgeted amount for training by Park. that most leaders assume that more than 10%, it is proposed in navigation is their sole responsibil- accordance with standing resolu- There has been disquiet recently ity and there may be times when it tion 4.6 that the club agree to the about the restrictions on cave has to be. additional expenditure via the camping in the Plan. These were following motion: endorsed by members via a Rob Horsfield standing resolution and now form ‘That the meeting authorise the Walks Secretary part of our club rules. I have expenditure of a further $700 from invited the Park management to the training vote for first aid respond to a recent letter to the Notice of motion courses’. editor on this subject. The Moved: Stan Marks response is in this it. It makes General Meeting, 21 July 2004 reference to a draft camping First aid training is important to Seconded: Michael Sutton strategy which may have implica- this club. It would be desirable for tions for the issue of camping every walk to have at least one Trip Preview caves. When we receive it, I will participant with medical or first aid ensure that everyone with an training. To this end, the Club has 2-4 October Long weekend interest in the issue has the been subsidising members to do Pretty Beach opportunity to provide input. first aid training this year using a It is suggested that this weekend be When endorsed, if a change to the $1,000 grant from the ACT standing resolution on this subject for bushwalking / photography / government. The grant has been painting & sketching. Five family is warranted, it will be put to a greatly appreciated and an General Meeting. sized campsites have been booked. application for funding for next Each site will hold approximately a Stan Marks, President year is in preparation. family sized tent (or two bush- The arrangement has been that walking couple tents) and a deposit Walks Waffle each person training has received a has been paid. In the August / $100 subsidy toward a course that September it I will be asking for Recently we visited Mt Foxlow costs about $160. As at 30 June, expressions of interest for the trip. near Captains Flat. Off-track the nineteen people had indicated a Contact me on 6241 7862. bush was dry sclerophyll with desire to undertake training of Rene Lays fairly open understory and some of whom eleven have trained and the creek-lines were choked with been refunded. This has used all Change of Address teatree. In parts the navigation was the ACT Government funds quite challenging. Our fearless available so far and we will also leader trusted the route finding to use the $200 in the training vote for In the "Discount Offers for Club some of our shortly-to-graduate this purpose. Members" published in the June it, “Navigation Refresher” people. we used the old address for- Given the importance of this They were “spot-on” for the whole Jurkiewicz Adventure Store. They training, it is proposed day! I thought I’d mention the are now at:- that maximum additional funding latter as an encouragement to those of $700 be provided in the current 47 Newcastle Street who are a little rusty on these club year to ensure that refunds can Fyshwick ACT 2609

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 2 value. Those caves and overhangs cumulative damage to the area’s Letter to the Editor that have received little use have conservation and wilderness Response not been significantly disturbed or values. It is estimated that up to compacted and are both scientifi- 16,000 people walk in the central Why is cave camping in cally important and fragile. These part of the Budawangs each year need to be protected from increased and the number is continuing to the Budawangs of use for camping. rise. Over the last 10 to 15 years there has been a significant concern? Contrary to the views expressed in increase in track creation, the June letter to the Editor, fauna I am writing in response to a letter vegetation loss, soil compaction habitat value and the potential for to the editor in the June newsletter and toilet waste at campsites and a hydatids are more minor issues and concerning restrictions on cave reduction in opportunities for have not been significant reasons camping in the Budawangs. solitude and self-reliance. It is the for limiting cave camping. Unfortunately, there appears to be Service’s legislative responsibility some misunderstanding of the The National Parks and Wildlife to minimise further impacts and to conservation reasons for the Service is currently finalising a manage use of the area consistent National Parks and Wildlife draft Walking and Camping with its status as a national park Service restricting cave camping Strategy for the Budawangs as and declared wilderness area. and of the need to manage required by the Morton National In my dealings over the years with recreational use of the Budawangs. Park Plan of Management. The the Canberra Bushwalking Club I Strategy responds to community The Budawangs area has very high have been impressed by the Club’s concern about the deterioration of natural and cultural values environmental ethics and the the Budawangs and has been including populations of a number willingness to recognise and prepared following an initial of endemic and threatened species. protect the full range of values of workshop with representatives One of these is the small plant the Budawangs be they recrea- from bushwalking organisations, Budawangia gnidioides that grows tional, cultural or natural values. including the Canberra Bushwalk- in rock overhangs in the Bu- This is the same intent and charter ing Club, and an invitation to those dawangs and is not known to grow of the National Parks and Wildlife organisations to provide written anywhere else in the world. The Service. Unfortunately, regulation comments. species is restricted to a limited is sometimes required to achieve number of sites because of its The draft strategy sets out policies such aims but I assure you this narrow habitat requirements and and actions for managing cave regulation is for clear conservation has disappeared from several camping and other aspects of purposes, not a bureaucratic locations where it formerly bushwalking. It encourages process as implied in last month’s occurred, at least partly as a result walkers to use tents rather than letter to the editor. of campfires and removal for caves in order to minimise further bedding. In order to protect this Diane Garrood damage to their values. It proposes Regional Manager, South Coast species from extinction it is that camping be allowed in listed National Parks and Wildlife Service necessary to ensure cave camping caves that are commonly used and does not further reduce the heavily disturbed unless further [The original letter also provoked remaining populations. investigation shows that Budawan- comment from club members. See The other primary value of the gia populations are at risk at those Letter to the Editor elsewhere in this it.] caves and overhangs is the locations or the caves have archaeological record in the floor significant cultural value to the of most caves and occasionally the Aboriginal community. The draft Membership presence of art on cave walls. Strategy will be sent to bushwalk- Matters Archaeological material is ing organisations for comment in normally present through the whole the next few months and I invite Prospective members: Deanne floor deposit and when undisturbed club members to carefully consider Fenson, Phillip Stone, Dawn it can provide a record of Aborigi- its contents. Casey, Nathalie Jitnah, Rohan nal occupation from recent times The aim of the Strategy is to Baxter, Bernhard von Dobschutz, back into the past. Years of use of protect the Budawangs’ conserva- Robin Scihoff popular overhangs by bushwalkers tion values and to manage New members: Lois Padgham, has resulted in removal of surface bushwalking to ensure that it can Dawn O'Flanagan, Lynley Bayliss, artefacts, digging and compaction continue on a sustainable basis. Jeswart Sidhu. of the sandy floors and hence We all have a responsibility to damage to the archaeological Roger Edwards minimise our individual impacts Membership Secretary record and Aboriginal cultural otherwise we risk significant

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 3 Peter, but I happen to think it Friday Night: A Peaceful Letter to the Editor important to preserve as much as Beginning… possible of the remaining evidence After a five hour stint, first on the Peter Henderson's letter (June it) on of occupation of Australia by highway past Goulburn, then north the limitations placed on his Aboriginal people; to acknowledge on dusty, corrugated roads, over enjoyment of the Budawangs does their strong attachment to their Shooters Hill, round a dog-leg, him little credit and would reflect land; and to respect the signifi- dodging several wombats, down a poorly on the Club if allowed to go cance to them of their sites. unchallenged. false lead to Jenolan Caves, the I won't deny that camping in caves party arrived at a camping ground a If he had taken time to reflect in the Budawangs has social few kms before the start of the before rushing to print, he might significance for many non- walk. While setting up camp for have recalled that far from being Aboriginal people or that I too miss the night, Mike 2’s car alarm went "an outrageous affront to mem- the experience. Might I suggest, off. He was parked right next to bers", the restrictions on cave Peter, that you ring Nowra NPWS Glen’s van where presumably Glen camping in the Budawangs were and ask them how they are had been sleeping soundly up to supported by the Club in its progressing with their Budawangs that point. Not any more!! submission on the draft Plan of camping and walking track Day 1: The never-ending ridge Management for Morton National rationalisation strategy? If you Park and endorsed unanimously by look at the plan of management, 18kms according to the map but members at a Club General you will find a commitment to do felt a tad longer than that. Meeting in February 1999. this, in consultation with user Knowing what we were in for that The restrictions form part of the groups, as a way of identifying day, Jenny cracked the whip and final Morton NP Plan of Manage- which caves and overhangs could we were raring to go by 7:30am. ment and thus apply to everyone, be made available for camping. After a car shuffle, the party set off not just members of this Club. You might also find that the along the Uni Rover Track on a rangers at the other end of the walking track of sorts using notes As noted in the plan, one of the phone are committed professionals main reasons for the restrictions is from the 1960s to guide us. At each doing the best they can with the stop, out came Jenny’s compass concern about "the disappearance resources they have available. of the rare plant Budawangia and the GPS, modern technology gnidioides from several of the Terence Uren ironically packaged in a beautiful, limited number of sites where it is hand crafted wooden box. known to occur ... at least three of Trip Report The ridge undulated and undulated the remaining populations are Kanangra –Boyd bushwalk and then, when we were all tired, it threatened by use of overhangs for gave us its worst - a very steep bit camping". I sure as hell wouldn't Anzac Day long Weekend rd th down to the river. be happy, Peter, if your camping 23 -26 April, 2004 We camped on a sandy river flat at under overhangs contributed to the [See photos by Leanne Aust later loss of this species. the base of the ridge we had in this it.] descended. The conversation round The plan also notes that "heavy Kanangra-Boyd National Park is the fire that night was amongst [recreational] use has resulted in ... described in the 2004 Guide to other things, about good ole significant disturbance of Aborigi- NSW National Parks thus, Adelaide as a few of us had lived nal occupation deposits in caves “Highlights - vast gorges, high there. and rock overhangs" and "damage lookouts and wild scenic rivers Day 2 – the Big, Bendy River to Aboriginal art by fires in lend Kanangra-Boyd’s wilderness a overhangs". These deposits are rugged and dramatic gran- A small luxurious sleep-in was found in most Budawangs caves deur…sandstone scenery on a allowed as today was to be a mere and, contrary to Peter's assertion, majestic scale.” This describes the 8 kms ambling alongside the will include surface scatters of place perfectly. Kowmung River. artefacts that would be apparent to any qualified archaeologist or Five club members and two non- The Kowmung presented some enthusiastic amateur. (Check members dared to follow the challenges to the navigators to pick Appendix IX of Flood's book and diminutive Jenny Horsfield and the the bend we were on and to ‘see if you will find references to "surface unassuming but exceptionally good it behaves itself”. finds" and tables showing the at Hogan’s Heroes impersonations, The constant of the day was the number and type of artefacts found Leanne Aust, into the Kanangra- ubiquitous prickle bush, thick as at or near the surface in the rock Boyd National Park over the Anzac hairs on a dog’s back. It was shelters she excavated). I'm sorry, Day Long Weekend. always there when you had to grab

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 4 a shrub to stop yourself from muck about. It grabbed your falling. One attacked Louise, attention from the very start with a Namadgi Fire Trails leaving her with one of its prickles near vertical (felt like it anyway) embedded in the tip of her nose. ridge with some rock scrambles to I have just returned from a private Ben expertly extracted it with a keep everyone on their toes… and day walk in one of my favourite sterilized needle. hands… and knees. Past Sullen Tor close parts of Namadgi - the ridge (reflecting one’s mood after leading along the park boundary The highlights were the river significant rock scrambles!), north-west from the Orroral wildlife, which included Bell Cambage Spire with sensational campground. Birds, Whip Birds, Lyre Birds, views and Bull Head Mountain (so pigeons, snakes, a Wedge-tailed We were rather amazed to find that named for its shape like a bulls Eagle and heaps more which we a very wide fire trail has been bull- head. Funny that…). probably walked past without dozed along the boundary and a noticing. After many stops and many goes new seven strand fence erected up we arrived at Kanangra Walls for to about 30 metres on the farm side Oh and more wombat holes than lunch with a view to die for (well of the old fence. you can imagine! The other we hope not anyway), sheer cliffs, highlight was the stone skipping vast deep gorges and the swifts competition at lunchtime at a darting on the thermals. Springy gorgeous pool. Heathland poinged us from side to During the frequent Creek side along the narrow, entrenched crossings, people used several path back to the cars. Oh blessed methods ie running fast so the relief to finally take off the filthy water does not have time to clothes and stinky shoes and hop penetrate the gaiters, log hopping into a soft-seated vehicle. Another with arms akimbo doing Dalek stop at the lovely Paragon in impersonations or wobbling, jelly- Goulburn for dinner then we were It is not clear whether the trail is in like on unstable rocks. home by 8:0pm and tucked up in the park, the adjacent farm, or both. At the campsite, Lois led a class in bed soon after. However, it does seem to be very stretches on the gravel with Mike 1 Awards: liable to erosion if we ever get heavy rain again, and is certainly a demonstrating his amazing rubber Jenny – Techno whiz award and man ability. visual scar on what was quite whip cracker award scenic land. Mike 2(aka Sutton) revealed two Leanne – Col Klink impersonation incredible talents that evening: one, award and directional sense of a his ability to get covered in homing pigeon award Cobblers Pegs at the drop of a hat Ben – Surgeon extraordinaire (he spent 20 tedious minutes award carefully removing them, then when he went to fill his water Louise – Leading with her nose bottle from the river, came back re- award and hot foot award infested worse than before) and Mike 2 – Gilligan’s Island award two, his memorable renditions of Mary – Early to bed award and every single 60s and 70s TV show floral outfit award If you are aware of other changes theme song known to human kind which affect our walking areas, (except maybe Inner Mongolia) Glen – Silly hat award and ability please report them here, with including everyone’s favourite, to walk up hills with infuriating photographs if possible. Gilligan’s Island. What a misspent effortlessness award childhood. Mike 1 – Latin plant names award More photos (in colour and larger) can be accessed on the club web Leanne proved tops at Col Klink and Mr Bendy award site. impressions, Benny Hill songs and Lois – Pyromaniac award and Ms also Gilligan’s Island. Bendy award Allan Mikkelsen Participants: Jenny Horsfield, Camped at junction of Christies Ck Keep this date free! and Kowmung River Leanne Aust, Ben and Louise, Glen Kraemer and Mary Bomford, Mike Sunday 12 December Day 3 - the BIGGGG climb out ! 1(Robbins) and Mike 2( Sutton) , and Lois Padgham Christmas Party The boss made sure we were away by 7:30 am. The big climb didn’t Lois Padgham More details later.

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 5 Kanangra - Kowmung Photos by Leanne Aust .

Narrow ridge on the Uni Rover Track Kanangra Walls to Cloudmaker The Bulletin Board ‘This page is provided for Mt Franklin Road is also closed 17-19 Feb Ball Pass Crossing members to advertise (at no cost) due to dead fire damaged trees Mount Cook NP. Basic goods for sale, private trips or which line a large proportion of mountaineering skills, crampons other personal bushwalking- the road. Currently Roads ACT and ice axe required. related matters. The Club is not is running a Preliminary involved in, takes no responsi- Assessment process for this 21-24 Feb Waimakariri Falls - bility for, and does not endorse, project prior to the start of any Mt Philistine, Arthur's Pass NP. the activities or goods advertised tree removal works. We are Basic mountaineering skills, here. Hence, if people partici- currently unsure on what will crampons and ice axe required. pate in any activities advertised happen with the dangerous trees Peter Briggs here, they do so as private on the NSW side of the range. 03 5975 2939 individuals, not as members of Current estimates place the 0401 004 688 the Club, and they will not be reopening of this road in April [email protected] covered by the Club’s insurance 2005. arrangements’. NZ South Island From Previous Access Update Months February 2005 Nattai and Starlights Trail See June it for descriptions. It has been reported that the Interested in extending your locked gate on Wattle Ridge walking/tramping to basic Open Invitation- Road which gives access to these mountain walking skills? Some Walking in the Budawangs areas has been moved back a or all of this programme may be On going further kilometre. of interest: Snow photography Namadgi Roads 1-5 Feb Cascade Saddle/Dart on snow shoes. Corin Road is closed at the Valley Namadgi Park Gates just above 28 August Corin Forest due to dangerous 9-15 Feb Mountain Skills Course Walking in England overhanging branches, work is - Conducted by Aspiring Guides, September being carried out to clear this Wanaka road and it is expected to reopen Trekking in Sikkim August / September 2004. October.

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 6 ACTIVITY PROGRAM

Arrange for your Club-related activities to be included in the program with Rob Horsfield (Walks Secretary) Ph: 6231 4535 (h), E-mail: [email protected], Post: 11 Studley St Kambah ACT 2902 Please see " INFORMATION FOR PARTICIPANTS IN CBC ACTIVITIES" in the June It, or on the Club website

Saturday 17 July - Mts Ainslie and Majura - 24,25 July - Jervis Bay weekend (M/E) M/E On Saturday morning, drive to Fitzroy Falls and These two familiar hills contain some very nice walk for 1 ¼ hrs on the west rim then to Cambe- walking and great views and are very conveniently warra Mountain for lunch. Then walk 2hrs at located for a mid winter's day. All on track. Be at Jervis Bay with views of cliffs and the sea between the gate to the horse paddocks on Antill St next to Governor's Head and the Ruined Lighthouse. On the last house in Hackett at 9am. About 4hrs 40 Sunday, walk for 4 ½ hrs from Steamer's Bay to St mins actual walking. Map: n/a Leader: Stan George's Head and Summerland Bay through Marks 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: coastal forest and heath with many sea views, and [email protected] Transport: drive morning tea and lunch on beaches. We will hire yourself but tell me if you need a ride. cabins and on Saturday evening, enjoy a nice but not too expensive meal somewhere. Book early. Sunday 18 July- Near Honey Suckle Creek- Map: to be supplied Leader: Stan Marks S/M 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: There is a nice rocky ridge to the south of the [email protected] Transport: ~$35, Honeysuckle Camp Ground. Lots of rocks with Accommodation: ~$15 two rather attractive viewing points for the sur- rounding mountains. Map Corin Dam & Wednesday 28 July- Committee Meeting Williamsdale 1:25,000. Leader Roger Edwards and it closing 6288 7863 (h) 6271 1302 (w) Transport $8.00 8PM at the home of Roger Edwards Note: Limit 8 101 McInnes Street, Weston 17- 18 July- Shannahans Mountain and Reedy Creek- M/R Saturday 31 July- Black Range (M/E) Shannahans Mtn, Reedy Creek, Horse Gully Hut, From the Forbes Creek track head, follow the trail Shannahans Falls Creek, Shannahans Mtn. This is north through attractive open forest to South Black an interesting descent of Reedy Creek with an Range trig point with its enormous rock for morn- overnight stay at the hut. Map: Collinton 1:25,000 ing tea, then on along an open ridge for about a km Leaders: Jenny & Rob Horsfield 6231 4535(h) to rejoin the track. Then on to lunch before re- Transport: ~$10 turning along the track. About 4hrs actual walking. Has some of the feel of a coastal forest. Wednesday 21 July- Monthly Meeting Map: Bombay 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks Bob Hodgson 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: South West Tasmania [email protected] Transport: ~$12 8:00PM St Johns Church Hall, Reid. Saturday 31 July Coronet Peak L/M Saturday 24 July- Namadgi N.P- M/R This long day walk [~27kms +~1000m climb] Route: Boboyan Pines - ÂRQULGJHHDVWRI0W needs a small, fast, fit party that is willing to start Gudgenby – return via saddle at 734374 (east of early and finish late. The reward for the effort is a Gudgenby saddle). Steep climbs, delightful bush stunning panorama of the (hopefully) snow capped (& scrub!), rock outcrops and excellent views. rim of an amphitheatre formed by the highest Map: Yaouk 1:25,000 Leader: Ian Smith peaks of the Brindabella Range. Maps: Corin 6282 1226 (h) 6243 4248 (w) Transport: ~ $12 Dam, Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leader: Terence Uren 6282 2403 Transport: ~$11 Note: Sunday 25 July- Nursery & Rendezvous Limit of 6. Creeks- M/M Nursery Swamp car park, Nursery Creek, saddle, Can you host an it collation? down Rendezvous Creek to Boboyan Road. Car shuffle between start and finish. Map: Rendez- Contact the publisher on 6247 6857 or at vous Creek 1:25,000. Leaders: Jenny & Rob [email protected] Horsfield 6231 4535(h) Transport: ~$10.

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 7 Sunday 1 August- Morton N.P. –S/M Caloola and Mt Clear is ~400m but the walk View Point - Johnstones Ck Overlook From includes a further ~300m of 'undulations'. Multi- rarely visited View Point, just west of Bundanoon, ple compulsory crossings of the Naas River. we follow a ridge to a clifftop lookout above Maps: Colinton, Michelago 1:25 000 Leaders: Johnstones Ck. A fire trail goes at least part way, Janet Edstein/Terence Uren. Bookings to Janet but there may be some scrub. About 9km with 6288 1398 (h) Transport: ~$12. Note: Limit of 8 300m total uphill. Map: Bundanoon 1:25,000. in each direction. Car swap required. Leader: Jeff Bennetts 6231 5899 (h), 6240 9704 Sunday 15 August- Mt Waratah, Hidden Creek (w), 0418 662870 (m) (use m if h n/a). Transport and the Nattai River- M/M :~ $22. Note: Limit of 12. This walk near Berrima begins on a trail which Saturday 7 August- Old Joe and the Jocelyn runs about a km along the Mt Waratah ridge with Trail- M/E spectacular views before dropping via a long There is a new nature park between Mulligan's Flat abandoned road to Hidden Creek which in due and the Federal Hwy so we can now walk from course enters the Nattai. The walk is about half on Old Road to Mt Majura without leaving and half off track, with the section along Hidden parkland except to cross the Hwy. So we shall. Creek in a beautiful, deep valley but a bit rough in Meet at the car park on the Majura side of Antill St places. Lunch at the junction with the Nattai just beyond the last house in Hackett at 9.15am. River. 4hrs actual walking. Map: Mittagong This is the end point of the walk. We will then do 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), a car shuffle to Mulligan's Flat, where we will start 6274 7350 (w), email: [email protected] walking. Cross the Federal Highway by an under- Transport: ~$25 pass. The walk is very pleasant, a mixture of on (13)-14-15 August– Northern Budawangs M/R and easy off track, through grassland and open On the Friday night we drive to Wog Wog for woodland. Old Joe is the highest point on the camp and early start Saturday along the track from walk, with interesting 360 degree views and Alan Davey’s house; we’ll climb Fosters Mountain Jocelyn was one of the pioneers of the walk. Map: for some views and continue to camp at Styles Hall 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), Creek. Sunday morning we’ll do a side trip up 6274 7350 (w), email: [email protected] onto Quilty’s mountain with its aboriginal bora Transport: drive yourself but tell me when you ground before returning along tracks. Map: En- book if you need a ride. drick 1:25 000. Leader: Gösta Lyngå – 7- 8 August- Namadgi: Sams Creek and 6288 7009. [email protected] Transport: Burbidge- M/R ~$25 Boboyan car park, Gudgenby saddle, Naas and Sams creeks, Bogong Gap, Burbidge, Burbidge Wednesday 18 August- Monthly Meeting spur, Middle Creek, car park. Maps: Yaouk, 8:00PM St Johns Church Hall, Reid. Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leaders: Jenny & Rob Horsfield 6231 4535(h) Transport: ~$8-50 Saturday 21 August- Brindabella NP - "Grevillea Ridge" - M/MR. Wednesday 11 August: Wednesday Walk This part of the Brindabellas near a big bend in The regular mid-week walk series continues, close Mountain Creek has extensive open volcanic rock to Canberra with a destination to be decided. outcrops that provide great vantage points for Contact the leader before 8pm Tuesday to find out views. We approach from near Dingo Dell. Map: destination and meeting place. Leader: Allan Umburra 1:25,000 Leader: Chris Leslie Mikkelsen 6278 3164(h). 6251 6123 (h) 62465713 (w) [email protected] Transport: about $10 Wednesday 11 August- IT Collation 8PM at the home of June Hornby Sunday 22 August- Orroral Valley- M/MR 13 Onkaparinga Crs, Kaleen The peak at the northern end of Orroral Valley may now be worth a visit again after the bush fires Saturday 14 August Naas Valley Crossover have cleared out some of the scrub. Maps: Ren- L/E/W dezvous Creek, Corin Dam 1:25,000. Leader: A track walk through the picturesque Naas Valley Roger Edwards 6288 7863 (h) 6271 1302(w). aimed at those who appreciate the opportunity to Transport: $10.00. stride out over a longish distance [~26km]. One (20) 21,22 August- Durras weekend- M/E half of the party will start at Caloola Farm and Leave Canberra Friday night and stay in cabins at head uphill to meet for lunch with the other half of the Durras Caravan Park near the beach. The the party heading downhill from the Mt Clear Saturday walk is an ascent of Durras Mountain campground. Difference in elevation between through the rainforest from the SW - not the usual

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 8 Pebbly Beach-Pretty Beach route - and views to Sunday 5 September- - take your breath away as you descend facing the M/M sea. The Sunday walk will be south along the Picnic At Hanging Rock Hanging Rock is a set of coastline from Murramarang and back through the conglomerate cliffs, a few km NE of the Big Hole, bush. 4 1/2-5hrs walking on Saturday, 3-4hrs on which we will visit on the return journey. The Sunday. Maps: Kioloa and Durras 1:25,000. walk is mostly through open forest and on track, Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 but there is some scunge below the rock and we do (w), email: [email protected] Transport: have to go up a (straightforward) pass through the ~$30, Accommodation: ~$40-50 Note: If you cliffs, which bring the walk into M/M grade. have booked already, please reconfirm asap There are good views from the top. Map: Kain 1:25,000. Leader: Jeff Bennetts 6231 5899 (h), Wednesday 25 August- Committee Meeting 6240 9704 (w), 0418 662870 (m) (use m if h n/a). and it closing Transport cost: about $20. Note: Limit of 12. Venue TBA (3) 4, 5 September- Kanangra-Boyd N.P- M/R Saturday 28 August -Mt. Tennent- M/M Route: Kanangra Walls – Brumby Ridge – Kow- Route: Namamdgi Ranger Station – Mt. Tennent – mung River – Roots Ridge – Kanangra Walls. Bushfold Flat – Mt. Tennent – Namadgi Ranger Great views, great country, great river. Friday Station. Map: Williamsdale 1:25,000 Leader: Ian night departure from Canberra. Map: Kanangra & Smith Contacts: 6282 1226 (h) 6243 4248 (W) Yerranderie 1:25,000 Leader: Ian Smith Transport: tba 6282 1226 (h) 6243 4248 (W) Transport: ~ $50 Sunday 29 August- Tallaganda National Park- Wednesday 8 September- Wednesday Walk S/E-M The regular mid-week walk series continues, close From the Forbes Creek track head just east of to Canberra with a destination to be decided. Hoskinstown, we will follow the Bald Hill and Contact the leader before 8pm Tuesday to find out Jinglemoney firetrails to Mulloon Creek, then go destination and meeting place. Leader: Allan roughly along the creek on and off track before Mikkelsen 6278 3164(h). swinging west along the Mulloon firetrail back to Wednesday 8 September- IT Collation the cars. About 7km on track and 2-3km off track. At the home of Bob Vickery The forest in this area is starting to have the fla- vour of the coast and is very attractive. Map: (10)11-12 September: Budawangs M / R Bombay 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks Byangee Mountain - Landslide Creek. Drive to 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: Yadboro Fri night for earlystart up to Castle Gap [email protected] Transport: ~$12 and a side trip to Byangee Walls. Camp on the 28- 29 August : Morton N.P. M /R Clyde then ascend Pigeon House Ck and Landslide The Castle and Byangee Walls. Car camp at the Ck to Wombat Ridge Fire Trail. Return via Long- Yadboro Camp Grounds. Saturday we'll ex- fella Pass. Some steep climbs and rock scrambles, plore Byangee Walls area. We'll climb to the base with great views and Spring flowers, including of the Castle. Then on to Castle Gap and Byangee rock orchids in Landslide Ck. Maps: Corang & Mountain via a scramble up a steep gully. If there Milton 1:25 000. Leader: Meg McKone is time we'll walk out to Pickering Point and some 6254 5902 (h). Transport: ~$25. great views. Sunday: we'll will climb The Castle (10) 11- 12 September Captain Starlight and via Kaliana Ridge, the Tunnel and some interest- Macquarie Rivulet weekend (Sat M/E, Sun ing rock scrambles towards the top. Map: S/M)) Corang 1:25,000. Leader: John Kelly - Drive to Bundanoon Youth Hostel on Friday night 6241 3814(h). Transport: ~$30. Limit of 8 for two contrasting walks over the weekend. On Saturday 4 September- Muldoonen Nature Sat, do the Starlight Trail, which incorporates the Reserve- M/E-M walk to Rocky Waterholes lookout. Easy terrain, This reserve is just south of the Hume Highway mostly fire trail with some steepish bits. Splendid between Gunning and Yass. The walk will explore escarpment views, spectacular cliff lines and a the reserve, which consists of undulating country lovely green spot by the Nattai River for lunch. with a cover of nice, open forest. A mixture of Enjoy the spring flowers. 5hrs actual walking. On track and easy off track. About 4hrs actual walk- Sunday, follow a pretty creek at the base of the ing. Map: Gunning 1:50,000. Leader: Stan Marks Macquarie Pass, much of it on track, 4hrs actual 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: walking, then drop in to the Pig and Whistle for [email protected] Transport: ~$12 coffee before home. A combined everyone bring something meal on Sat night in the hostel. Map:

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 9 Hill Top & Robertson 1:25,000. Leaders: Diana Leader: Gösta Lyngå – 6288 7009. Terry 0414 608 876 or [email protected] and [email protected] Transport $25 Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), or (24)25, 26 September [email protected] . Bookings to Stan. (M/E)- Transport: ~$30 This is a walk over 2 days that traverses the length Wednesday 15 September of Royal National Park and covers about 27 km. Annual General Meeting The plan is to head off Fri evening and stay over- night at the Wollongong YHA. On Saturday drive Saturday 18 September: Bushfold Flats (M/E- to Cronulla and catch ferry to Bundenna. Walk to M) Garie’s Beach and stay overnight at Garie’s Beach Walk from the Booroomba Rocks car park via the YHA. Have booked entire YHA for the evening. Alpine Walking Track along the creek to the Mt Sunday, we walk to Otford and catch a train back Tennant fire trail. Follow this until the Bushfold to our starting point in Cronulla, and then head Flats track swings off to the west, then traverse the home to Canberra. Maps: Port Hacking and full length of the flats before following the Alpine Otford. Leader: Barry Keeley 6251 5629 (h), Track down the creek back to the cars.While the 6252 7469 (w) email: [email protected] fires went through much of this area, much of it is Transport: $40-$50. Accommodation: Fri – $25 in good condition, especially Bushfold Flats, , Sat $15. Note: Limit of 10. which is a delightful area of open forest and Saturday 2 October- Grassy Creek/Old grassland. 4 ½ hrs actual walking, mostly on Boboyan Road (M/E-M) track. Map: Williamsdale 1:25,000. Leader: Enjoy a wander through the grasslands and forests Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: of the southern ACT. See some of the old home- [email protected] Transport: ~$8 steads in the area. 4hrs actual walking, area has Sunday 19 September- Gudgenby- L/R not been burnt. Map: Yaouk 1:25,000. Leader: This is a tough walk with a climb of over 750m Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: and about 16kms walking. However your rewards [email protected] Transport: ~$20 are the superb 360 degrees views, from Tinderries Sunday 3 October- Wild Cattle Flats (S/E-M) to Jagungal and the achievement. We begin at the Climb gently on a fire trail east of Captains Flat to Boboyan/Yankee Hat carpark, walk through the the trig station atop the Bollard Ridge from which pine forest and steadily upwards along a track to you can look due west to the Tidbinbilla Range. gridpoint 73/39.5 which is near 3 native cherry Then follow the ridge as it descends through open trees. Here a short morning tea rest, then the steep forest until you cross Ballinafad Creek. Lunch on scramble climb to the top. Near the very top its a hill above the creek, then cross wild cattle flats rock and sometimes this is covered with ice. This and back to the cars through open forest. All on makes for very interesting walking! Lunch at the trail or easy off track, good if you want to try off top. We return the same way. Map: Yaouk track for the first time. One of my recent finds in 1:25,000. Leader Janet Edstein 6288 1398 Trans- Tallaganda National Park. About 4 hrs actual port $ 14 walking. Return via the purple eatery. Map: 18-19 September- Deua NP - Breakfast Creek Tinderry 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks and Woila Lookouts - M/MR. 6254 9568 (h), 6274 7350 (w), email: From Pikes Saddle we follow the Minima fire trail [email protected] Transport: ~$16 before diverting across to a tall waterfall on the 2- 4 October -Long weekend- Pretty Beach beautiful tree-lined Breakfast Creek. From there camping we make our way to camp somewhere on a plateau Something different. As the Monga forest Sunday overlooking the incredibly steep amphitheater to was such a success, it is suggested that a weekend the north of Mother Woila, also looking for good of bushwalking/ photographing/ painting & vantage points. Map: Snowball/Badja 1:25000 sketching be held at Pretty Beach on the October Leader: Chris Leslie 6251 6123(h) 6246 5713(w) long weekend. We will leave Canberra Saturday [email protected] Transport: ~$25 morning and tent at Pretty Beach. Details for Saturday 25 Sept– Micalong Swamp M/E arranging camping will be in the next IT. Leader: The Hume and Hovell track goes partly along the Rene Lays 6241 7862 largest montane swamp in mainland Australia. An 2-4 October- Commemorating the opening of easy walk these days following the route where in Namadgi- M/M 1824 Claude Bossawa pushed a wheelbarrow over Re-enacting the famous Mt Kelly Trip Leaders: roadless country to measure the distance all the David Large, Rob Horsfield 6231 4535(h) Details way to Bass Strait. Map: Bobbys Plains 1:25,000. TBA

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 10 Wednesday 13 October- Wednesday Walk seeing whales on their southward migration. The regular mid-week walk series continues, close Friday night departure from Canberra. Map: Kiah to Canberra with a destination to be decided. & Narrabarba 1:25,000 Leader: Ian Smith & Contact the leader before 8pm Tuesday to find out Sandy Berry 6282 1226 (h) 6243 4248 (W) destination and meeting place. Leader: Allan Transport: tba Mikkelsen 6278 3164(h). Sunday 12 December -Christmas Party Wednesday 13 October- IT Collation Keep this date free! More details later.

23-24 October- Southern Budawangs - Upper 27 December-3 January - Post Christmas Belowra Creek - M/R Slack Trip Bimberamala tributary zealots will like this place - I usually do a six day trip starting 27 December. plenty of ferns, palms, vines and falling waters. I This year, make it possible to do up to eight days, hope to revisit a mysterious dark waterfall, maybe probably in the Genoa River area on the NSW / even to see what exists above it. Don't know where Victoria border. If you are interested and have any we'll camp though! Map: Brooman 1:25,000 preference on destination and dates for the trip, Leader: Chris Leslie 6251 6123(h) 6246 5713(w) please contact me. Leader: Allan Mikkelsen [email protected] Transport:~$25 6278 3164(h). Note: For those who read the report (29) 30, 31 October - Ben-Boyd N.P- M/M by Mandy Reynolds on last years trip, I intend that Route: Saltwater Creek – Light to Light track to this year will be slack with optional side trips for Green Cape and return. An excellent possibility of the energetic

Membership Renewal

Please have a look at your label. Does it say Renew Soon, Renew Now or Last IT. If the answer is yes please pay promptly to remain a financial member of the club. If the Membership Secretary does not receive your renewal by the 1st day of the month after it is due; there may be a delay in getting your copy of IT. Current rates are Single $33.00 Family $50.00. Your options are (please tick applicable box) I have made a direct payment to Westpac BSB 032-719 Account Number 176-134. (Please enclose receipt number if available. You may need to check with your financial institution whether you can make a payment online or at your nearest branch.). For direct payment you will still need to complete and return this form and return it to Membership Secretary, Canberra Bushwalking Club, PO Box 160 Canberra ACT 2601 or email details to [email protected] Enclosed is a cheque / money order.

Attached is cash (if paying in person at a club meeting).

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Home phone Number Work Phone E-Mail

I am willing to lead Day Walks Yes No Weekend Walks Yes No

In renewing your membership you should be aware that though the Canberra Bushwalking Club office bearers and activity leaders take all reasonable care, when joining in any activity you do so as a volunteer in all respects and, as such, accept responsibility for any personal injury or loss incurred.

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT July 2004 page 11 CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB COMMITTEE

Position Name Home Work E-mail PRESIDENT Stan Marks 6254 9568 6274 7350 [email protected] GENERAL SECRETARY Gary Trevean 6285 1135 6266 9737 [email protected] TREASURER/VICE PRES. Michael Sutton 6262 3394 - [email protected] WALKS SECRETARY Rob Horsfield 6231 4535 - [email protected] EDITOR Allan Mikkelsen 6278 3164 - [email protected] MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Roger Edwards 6288 7863 6271 1351 [email protected] TRAINING & SAFETY OFFICER James Ashburner 6254 1666 6252 7934 [email protected] CONSERVATION OFFICER John Thwaite 6254 3193 [email protected] PUBLISHER Cynthia Breheny 6247 6857 - ASSISTANT WALKS SECRETARY Keith Thomas 6230 1081 - [email protected] SOCIAL SECRETARY Lucinda Prickett 6295 2854 6239 2220 [email protected] MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: Ring ROGER EDWARDS on 6288 7863 (h) CHECK IN: Ring KEITH THOMAS on 6230 1081 (h) For Internet users, the Club Home Page is at: http://www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org.au

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If undeliverable return to GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601 SURFACE POSTAGE PAID Print Post Approved AUSTRALIA PP248831/00047 it MAIL

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