December 2000
NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION (ACT) INCORPORATED
Australian Alps National Parks cooperative management Some reflections from the West News from the Bulletin Working Group PA BULLETIN Volume 37 number 4 December 200C
CONTENTS
News from the Bulletin Working Group 3 Warrumbungle and Kaputar Syd Comfort National Parks November 2000 9 Max Lawrence Martin Chalk photographic exhibition 3
Syd Comfort Namadgi National Park Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Project 10 Some reflections from the West 4 Steue Welch Stephen Johnston
Charlie Hill (1921 - 2000) 5 Walking and talking the land 11 Stephen Hill Fiona MacDonald Brand
Australian Alps National Parks Parkwatch 12 cooperative management 6 Syd Comfort Book Review 14
Burnt pines 7 Eleanor Stodart Syd Comfort Escapism 15 Gene technology in agriculture: Martin Chalk implications for consumers and the environment ... 8 Len Haskew
National Parks Association (ACT) Incorporated The NPA (ACT) office is located in MacLaurin Crescent, Inaugurated 1960 Chifley, next to the preschool. It is staffed by volunteers Aims and objectives of the Association but, at present, not on a regular basis. Callers may leave • Promotion of national parks and of measures for the phone or email messages at any time and they will be protection of fauna and flora, scenery, natural features and attended to. Mail from the post office box is cleared daily. cultural heritage in the Australian Capital Territory and elsewhere, and the reservation of specific areaB. Telephone/Fax: (02) 6282 5813 • Interest in the provision of appropriate outdoor recreation Email: [email protected] areas. Address: PO Box 1940, Woden ACT 2606 • Stimulation of interest in, and appreciation and enjoyment of, Internet: http-J/wxvw.spirit.net.au/-npaact such natural phenomena and cultural heritage by organised Membership field outings, meetings or any other means. New members are welcome and should enquire through the • Cooperation with organisations and persons having similar NPA office. interests and objectives. Subscription rates (1 July to 30 June) • Promotion of, and education for, conservation, and the Household members $40 Single members S35 planning oflanduse to achieve conservation. Corporate members S30 Bulletin only S30 Office-bearers, committee and convenors Concession $25 For new subscriptions joining between: President Clive Hurlstone 6288 7592(h); 1 January and 31 March - half specified rate 040 778 3422fw) 1 April and 30 June - annual subscription Vice President David Large 6291 4830(h) NPA Bulletin Immediate Contributions of articles, line drawings and photographs Past President Eleanor Stodart 6281 5004(h) including colour prints are welcome and should be lodged with Secretary Len Haskew 6281 4268(h) the office or Syd Comfort (02) 6286 2578. Treasurer Mike Smith 6286 2984(h) Deadline for March issue: 1 February 2001. Committee members Articles by contributors may not necessarily reflect Steven Forst 6251 6817(h) 6279 1326(w) association opinion or objectives. Judy Kelly 6253 1859(h) This bulletin was produced by the NPA Bulletin Working Group Timothy Walsh 6285 1112(h) with assistance from Green Words & Images. Eleanor Stodart 6281 5004(h) Printed by Ausdoc On Demand, Canberra, ACT. Convenors ISSN 0727-8837 Environment Sub-committee David Large 6291 4830(h) Outings Sub-committee Max Lawrence 6288 1370(h) Couer photo: Brumby yards between Smokers Trail and Bulletin Working Group Syd Comfort 6286 2578(h) Blue Gum Creek. Photo Martin Chalk News from the Bulletin Working Group
The October meeting of the group was well received by members and students use the Internet as a was attended by Muriel Edwards, will be continued. reference source, placing the Betty Lewis, Martin Chalk, Len Currently Bulletin pages are laid Bulletin on the Net could make it Haskew, Reg Alder, Graeme Wicks out in three columns with each page more available. and Syd Comfort, and apologies contained by a ruled border. Muriel Edwards who has done were received from Judith Webster, Alternative layouts of two columns, such a good job of coordinating the Greg Foster, Fiona MacDonald both with and without borders, were mail-out of the Bulletin, told the Brand, and Barbara de Bruine. examined and it was agreed to trial meeting that she would be unable After a frank evaluation of the one such layout, probably with the to continue in this role but will September issue, discussion focused March 2001 issue. continue to assist in editing. The on three matters: format of the The Bulletin is distributed free to meeting expressed sincere Outings Program, alternative page many ACT schools and colleges, but appreciation of her work over the layouts, and the "free" distribution as this is no longer supported by a past three years. The association of the Bulletin to school and other government grant it costs the needs a volunteer to take over this groups. association approximately $2 per coordinating role. In the September issue, the copy. The group concluded that this The convenor thanked all Outings Program, printed on green expenditure is justified as providing members of the group for their paper, was incorporated into the a resource to the schools and good support during the year. Bulletin proper rather than being a publicity for the association. The Syd Comfort separate sheet. This arrangement suggestion was made that, as Convenor
Martin Christmas Office volunteers needed Chalk greetings Members will be aware that the association office in Chifley is now photographic The President and operated by volunteers. Neville Esau, who is coordinating the office members of the arrangements, would like to hear exhibition from any member who could take a An exhibition of photographs by Committee extend to all place in the office roster. Neville's association member Martin association members phone number is 6286 4176. Chalk will be held at the j Namadgi Visitor Centre from best wishes for 8 December 2000 to 31 January I
Volunteer sought ; 2001. Martin, well known to Christmas and the The NPA Bulletin is packaged and members as walks leader, author ; New Year. posted out each quarter by a group and photographer, has of volunteers, a task occupying about contributed many fine photos to three hours. A volunteer is urgently the Bulletin, including the front required to take responsibility for cover in this issue and that coordinating this activity. For more spectacular scene at Lego Land information, please ring featured in the September issue. 1 Syd Comfort on 6286 2578. The coming exhibition titled I High Plains and Mountain Tops J reflects on the essence of the | Correction alpine area and those who once I The author of the book The Vision lived there, subjects which have \ always fascinated Martin. The i Christmas party of Edna Walling, quoted in the article "Edna Walling as a exhibition will be a major [ drawcard at the Visitor Centre ; The NPA Christmas Party will be conservationist", NPA Bulletin, over the summer holiday period. held at Caloola Farm from 11 am on ! September 2000, should read Trisha Sunday December 10. Further | Dixon. details are contained in the Outings i Syd Comfort j Program. Some reflections from the West
Every weekday morning as I jockey left a gap in the subdivisions, it was The forests are riddled with old for position on the busy Kwinana often a gap of original bush rather logging access tracks but many are freeway on my way to work, I obtain than a paddock or orchard. Hence now little used and form pleasant a magnificent view that lifts my you find jarrah woodland in small and easy walking tracks. Easy, spirits for the day. The view is north council reserves and around the because the only major changes to along the broad stretch of the edges of golf courses and cemeteries the topography are the creek gullies Canning River, across the even dotted with xamia palms and grass and river valleys that cut down into broader Swan River and up to the low trees. the plateau and the changes in tree-covered hill called Mt Eliza. The The lakes were formed between elevation are rarely more than trees mark the renowned Kings the north-south lines of sand dunes. 200 metres. Park, the 400 hectares of botanic While some were drained and built So why wasn't this plateau forest gardens and remnant bush that over, those that remain provide so close to Perth more extensively forms a natural heart for the ever metropolitan habitat for a great cleared? We can partly thank the sprawling city of Perth. variety of waterbirds, long-necked widespread presence of the The view immediately to the east tortoises and, where there is still Gastrolobium species, a genus of pea and west of Kings Park is less than fringing vegetation, small flowers which evolved a method of attractive: tall residential buildings marsupials like the bush rat and protecting themselves from seed- and office towers. The striking southern brown bandicoot bandicooeatint g oanr d browsing animals. They contrast of this sort of collocation of quenda. As in other cities, the have in their leaves new, often ugly and crass reserves and lakes are under great monofluoroacetate, a poisonous development beside attractive pressure from weeds, particularly substance now commonly known as natural features was my first, and watsonia and bridal creeper, popular 1080. Over many years native has remained my strongest single usage, fires and pollution. animals developed immunity to this impression of Perth and the nearby On a broader scale the contrasting poison, but introduced species are region since I arrived here in edge between city and country, while highly susceptible. Hence the early January. not as defined as in Canberra, is settlers lost tens of thousands of I see this contrast around the nevertheless sometimes quite sharp. head of stock as they were moved Swan, a beautiful great harbour with The limestone walled small blocks through the forests and browsed on some extensive foreshore parks that marking housing subdivisions in the plants like York Road poison is continually being compromised by northern growth area of Joondalup (Gastrolobium calycinium) which the obsession to have the largest, come to an abrupt halt at a four-lane was named after the track to most imposing and tasteless road from where jarrah-marri forest Western Australia's oldest inland mansions right on the water's edge. extends north in a narrow band for town. The forests became places for I see it as I drive to the local shops more than 30 kilometres through stock and therefore settlers to avoid. and pass a council reserve of typical two national parks, Neerabup and By the 1880s the enormous value of scraggy Swan plains scrub amidst Yanchep. To the east the 250 to jarrah timber had been recognised the suburban neatness, or at nearby 300 metre high Darling escarpment and it soon formed, along with Booragoon Lake where the scores of forms a partial buffer to suburban sandalwood, the state's major export cormorants and ibis nest in the spread, and a number of small earner. While the forests were fringing vegetation less than 20 national parks provide attractive extensively and often wastefully metres from the heavy road walking and picnic spots within 40 logged, their commercial timber transports that thunder along the minutes of the city centre. The value provided a later line of defence six-lane Leach Highway. plateau above the escarpment is against broad-scale clearing. One of my first and lasting positive largely covered with jarrah-maiTi The symbiosis between the native impressions of Perth is the surprising forest in a belt averaging about 40 animals and the Gastrolobium number and location of suburban kilometres wide that stretches more species has enabled an bush and lake reserves. Both are than 300 kilometres south until it internationally acclaimed, targeted related to particular characteristics reaches the karri forests. wildlife conservation initiative to be of the coastal plain. Whereas a lot of This was my most pleasant WA conducted. Western Shield. This is land adjacent to the infant cities of surprise; I had no idea such a large an extensive aerial fox baiting Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and area of forest was so close to the city. program that involves laying pieces Adelaide was cleared last century for Sure it's been logged intensively for of dried meat treated with 1080 at farms and orchards, the Swan coastal many decades. But there are still the rate of about five baits per plain waB infertile sand. What are many old marri trees remaining square kilometre. The result is that now well established Perth suburbs with their spreading crowns and there has been such a marked were just bush as recently as the clusters of big "honkey" gumnuts recovery of native species that three 1940s and 50s. So if the developers and smaller numbers of old jarrah. which were until recently recorded continued on page 13 Charlie Hill (1921 - 2000)
Charlie Hill, NPA member for nearly 30 years and life member since 1988, died peacefully on 5 October at the Banksia Ward of Jindalee Nursing Home, Canberra, at the age of 79. Clive Hurlstone, supported by numerous NPA members attended a packed Thanksgiving Service at St Aidans on 10 October. After an active and productive life, Charlie was a victim of a crippling form of Parkinsons Disease which rendered him bed and chair ridden, a vast change from his former mobility. Charlie's wife, Audrey, and the family steadfastly family. He became a member of the building the Yerrabi Track to the supported him day by day, helped at Melbourne Mens Walking Club in magnificent views of southern times by visits from friends. 1942. He took part in virtually all Namadgi Park from the Boboyan Charlie joined the Department of activities in the clubroom, at Trig. He was an enthusiastic the Navy in 193 8 and served in the dinners, at programmed outings, participant and leader of many Navy itself from 1944 to late 1945. adventurous exploratory walks, enjoyable car camps including the The war interrupted his ambitions week-long ski trips on the Bogong now legendary Bournda Reserve to gain tertiary qualifications in High Plains, Mt Buller weekends, weekends. Engineering. Through his rise to and committee work. Bert Bennett Charlie and Audrey bought a senior positions in the Navy tells the story of how the two of campervan in 1979, which became Department, he left Melbourne for them, after being weatherbound for the mode of transport and Sydney, and after six years there several days on Mt Cobbler, caught accommodation for many around up the original program by a nearly returned to Melbourne, then moved Australia and regional holidays non-stop walk across the plateau to to Canberra in 1960. He retired in during the 80's. It had the spare Koonika, Speculation, Cross Cut 1981 and Charlie and Audrey wheel on the front, covered with a Saw, Howitt, the Howqua Valley, travelled extensively around New "Smiley Face" which became the and then to Fred Frys! Zealand, UK and Europe and, then, instantly recognisable symbol that Alaska early in his retirement. Charlie and Audrey became Charlie and Audrey were involved Charlie always led an active life. involved in the National Parks in whatever activity was going on He enjoyed sports such as squash Association during the early 1970s at the time. and tennis, and backyard cricket and he took part in the NPA's efforts Stephen Hill with the grandchildren. He was an to form the Namadgi National Park enthusiastic skier, both downhill (and its subsequent extensions) in and cross-country, firstly in the 1983. He was very active in all New data base Victorian Alps, then locally in the aspects of the NPA and was heavily Brindabellas, and later, in the involved in Committee work both in established Snowy Mountains. He made his first relation to the administration of the All association member information skis in the late 30s. With the support park and in its conservation. He has recently been re-entered to form of Audrey, he taught all three was a long-standing member of the a new membership data base. children to ski, firstly with him on Walks Committee and led many interesting day walks on behalf of Members are requested to check the his skis, then on small, handcrafted detail of the information on the 1 members. In partnership with other skis. members, Charlie took great Bulletin posting label and advise any Charlie's great love of the interest in progressing the Glendale errors, misspellings or omissions to mountains and the outdoors was trees revegetation project and in the office or to Neville Esau on long-standing and, shared by the 6286 4176. Australian Alps National Parks cooperative management
Brett McNamara, an officer of the Australian ACT Parks and Conservation Service, is on a four-year secondment as coordinator of the Australian Alps National Parks cooperative management program. This article covers the address that he gave to the September general meeting of the association. The national parks and reserves in the Australian Alps cross state and territory borders and comprise over 1.6 million hectares of protected areas. To assist conservation agencies to manage these resources in a consistent and compatible manner, the ministers responsible for their management in 1986 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in relation to the cooperative management of the Australian Alps. Areas covered include: Australian Alps National Parks. Victoria Hectares Map from AALC 1999-2000 Annual Report Alpine National Park 645 615 Snowy River National Park 98 100 secondment of an officer from one of least two states or one state and Avon Wilderness Park 39 650 the participating services. Brett the territory; currently occupies this position. • have direct cross-border benefits; Mount Buffalo National Park 31 000 Much of the achievement of the and New South Wales program comes through working • have support for continuation Kosciuszko National Park 690 000 groups established to direct the and maintenance by agencies. implementation of the annual Brindabella National Park 12 000 Community Relations Working cooperative program. Group Scabby Range Nature Reserve 3 449 Working group members are Bimberi Nature Reserve 7 100 selected on the basis of their Increased public awareness of the specialist skills and operate as a team important values of the Australian Australian Capital Territory with staff from other land Alps national parks is a major goal. Namadgi National Park 105 900 management agencies in managing In addition to providing press the Australian Alps national parks. releases and media stories, Organisation and finance Further detail on the working groups information displays and schools The MOU provides for the is provided later in this article. information kits have been establishment of the Australian Alps The annual government developed and workshops Liaison Committee (AALC) to contributions to support the program conducted. coordinate cooperation between total $400 000, made up of $120 000 Recent publications include alpine park agencies. This each from the Commonwealth, Explore the Australian Alps and committee is comprised of a senior Victoria and New South Wales and WUdguide: Plants and Animals of officer from each of the state and $40 000 from the ACT. Most of the the Australian Alps, both of which territory park services together with expenditure is allocated through an have been reviewed recently in the an senior officer from the relevant annual works program which Bulletin. An Alps National Parks Commonwealth department. The comprises projects which are selected Touring Map and a very attractive ACT member is Tony Corrigan, so as to: video based on individual Manager ACT Parks and connections with the region have Conservation Service. The • further implement the Alps been produced. implementation of the program is Strategic Plan; coordinated by the full-time • apply to park management in at continued on page 7 Burnt pines
This photo of the Boboyan Pine Plantation showing trees killed by the 1983 bushfire was featured in a draft Policy Plan and Development Plan for the Gudgenby Area published by the National Capital Development Commission in 1984, before the national park was declared. It is reproduced here by courtesy of the National Capital Authority. The publication presents an outline of the history of the pine plantation and a discussion of options for the future of the area. What I found of particular interest in this article is that it emphasises that the future of the pines has been recognised as a significant issue for nearly 20 years. In the intervening time the association has been active in promoting the restoration of the pines area to native vegetation, the Namadgi National Park Management Plan has endorsed this course of action, and revegetation has now been underway for nearly three years. The article by ranger Steve Welch on page 10 describes the current state of this challenging task.
Syd Comfort
Australian Alps National Parks cooperative management continued from page 6
Natural Heritage Working Cultural Heritage Working Australian Alps Walking Track Group Group within Namadgi National Park. Supported with seed funding from This working group has developed a This will divert the track from the Australian Alps Liaison cultural heritage implementation Booroomba and Honeysuckle roads Committee and other organisations, strategy and identified gaps in the to a route providing a greatly CSIRO Publishing commenced knowledge of cultural heritage in the enhanced experience for walkers. work in 1999 on the new Kosciuszko Alps. Conclusion Alpine Flora. This is due for release In November 1999, an indigenous Whilst accepting that there are some in December 2000. issues awareness workshop was impediments to cross-border In December 1999, this working conducted providing participants cooperation, such as differing group seconded Dr Peter Coyne to from all four agencies with valuable objectives and priorities amongst undertake a study to identify and insights into Aboriginal culture and agencies, Brett is satisfied that a document the status of significant contemporary issues. culture of goodwill and open natural features of the Australian Recreation and Tourism communication exists between Alps and the threats to them. The Working Group agencies. There has been national report has identified over 1000 such and international recognition of a features. The group hosted a five-day unique cooperative program which Also in 1999, Michelle Walter international best practice Human he hopes may be extended in the commenced a PhD at the University Waste Management Workshop in March 2000 involving 84 delegates future. of Canberra, partly funded by from Australia and overseas. For Brett rounded off his presentation AALC, on the population ecology of next year a best practice workshop by screening the outstanding video feral horses in the Australian Alps. on walking track construction is Stories Among the Snowgums: a As results become available, models planned. journey through the Australian Alps. will be fitted to the data to assess In April this year, work commenced trends in the population under a Syd Comfort variety of future potential on renovating five kilometres of the Australian Alps Walking Track management scenarios. Gene technology in agriculture: implications for consumers and the environment.
The guest speaker at the October A gene is a recipe for a protein and Peas are susceptible to attack by general meeting was Dr Linda Tabe, it is made of DNA (a long string-like weevils, beans are resistant. Beans a research scientist with CSIRO's molecule consisting of two strands contain a protein, amylase inhibitor, Division of Plant Industry. For a wound around each other to form a that is toxic to weevils. In the period of 10 years or so Linda has helix.) The building blocks of genes laboratory, under very precise been using gene technology to are known as bases and when these conditions, the inhibitor was produce a weevil-resistant pea that are decoded a gene can be copied. So introduced into pea cells and new will require less chemical pesticide. one gene can give rise to millions of pea plants were developed that were Linda's presentation covered not copies of its protein product. Gene weevil resistant. This was a long, only her own work, but also the technology allows scientists to make slow process involving years of basics of gene technology, the a plant resistant to an insect pest testing in laboratories and closed regulatory systems that are in place by giving it a gene that tells it how glass nouses. Eventually the "new1 and the scientific and social to make the protein. pea was tested in the field, in line implications of the technology. The Mankind has practised the genetic with the rules of the Genetic Bulletin notice about her talk modification of plants for millennia, Manipulation Advisory Committee. foreshadowed the raising of some initially selecting favourable The new product is just now current issues for discussion. This characteristics for cultivation and entering a further phase of was certainly the case, and Linda later, deliberate cross breeding development and testing before faced vigorous questioning from between closely related species. commercial release. members. Linda answered all Over the last few years plant The regulatory system, in Linda's queries frankly and fully and with breeders have used chemicals or X- opinion, is precise and rigorous and good humour. Her excellent rays to produce mutations or as a result of this only two GM crops, presentation was accompanied by random changes. Gene technology cotton and carnations, are presently informative transparencies - a continues this tradition but it has grown commercially in Australia. photocopy of these is available for the ability to make the alterations (Details of the Australian inspection at the office. The article deliberate and precise. below is an edited version of the Linda's work involved developing notes that Linda gave us.) peas with in-built weevil protection. continued on next page
RISKS OF PLANT GENE TECHNOLOGY BENEFITS OF PLANT GENE TECHNOLOGY
to the environment Escape of genes by out-crossing and development Less use of chemicals in agriculture of herbicide resistant weeds
Development of pests resistant to biopesticides New, more specific strategies against pests and diseases Effects on beneficial insects Less impact on beneficial insects
Creation of new plant viruses New strategies against viruses
Threats to biodiversity Preservation of biodiversity by increasing the efficiency of agriculture
to human health Transfer of antibiotic resistance genes to Increased levels of beneficial nutrients, vitamins, other organisms anti-oxidants etc in food
Changes in allergens or toxins Decreased levels of allergens or toxins
Unknown long term effects Healthier plant oils, oral vaccines
to society Ethical objections A better nourished world population
Domination of world food production by multinational Better tolerance of produce to harvesting storage and corporations transport
Table taken from one of Linda's slides NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION (ACT) INCORPORATED NPA outings program December 2000 - March 2001 Outings guide
Walk gxadings Terrain grading Distance grading (per day) A — Road, firetrail track 1 - up to 10km B — Open forest 2 - 10km to 15km C — Light scrub 3 — 15km to 20km D - Patches of thick scrub, regrowth 4 — above 20km E - Rock scrambling F — Exploratory
Day walks carry lunch, drinks and protective clothing. Pack walks two or more days, carry all food and camping requirements. CONTACT LEADER BY WEDNESDAY OR AS INDICATED IN PROGRAM. Car camps facilities often limited Dr non-existent. Vehicles taken to site can be used for camping. BOOK EARLY WITH LEADER. Other activities include nature rambles, environmental and field guide studies and ski tours.
Points to note Please help keep our outings program alive by volunteering to lead outings. New leaders are welcome. The outings convenor is happy to suggest locations suitable for a walk if you do not have something in mind yourself. Feel free to send in suggestions for outings to the association's office as soon as you think of them, with a suggested date. All persons joining an outing of the National Parks Association of the ACT do so as volunteers in all respects and as such accept responsibility for any injury howsoever incurred and the National Parks Association of the ACT, its office bearers and appointed leaders are absolved from any liability in respect of injury or damage suffered whilst engaged in any such outing. The committee suggests a donation, to the nearest dollar, of TWENTY FIVE cents per kilometre DIVIDED BY THE NUMBER OF OCCUPANTS in the car, including the driver, be offered to the driver by each passenger accepting transport. Drive and walk distances quoted in the program are approximate distances for return journeys.
9 December Saturday work parry 10 December (Sunday) 17 December Sunday daywalk Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group NPA Christmas Parry Square Rock Leader: Eleanor Stodart Contact: Max Lawrence Leader Judy Kelly Phone: 62815004 Phone 6288 1370 2A Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre at 9.15am This years Christmas Party is at Caloola Farm. Map: Corin Dam 1:25 000 or Yankee Hat carpark at 10.00am. Weeding, We're looking to get things under way from Phone: 6253 1859 wilding removal or other work for about 1 lam, so bring a picnic lunch. For those Meet at Kambah Village shops ac 8.30am. rehabilitation of the Boboyan pine area. Tools who haven t been to Caloola, head south from From Smokers Gap carpark we will climb an will be provided. Early finish for Christmas Tharwa past the Namadgi Visitors Centre and initial steep pinch and then stroll along the celebrations. turn left immediately afreryou cross the bridge designated walking track to take in the over the Gudgenby River at Naas (if you get pleasures of Smokers Flat, the lookout T?k'"g to Fitzs Hill you've gone too far). Caloola is in views over the Orroral Valley, and Square then about 7-8km on at the end of the dirt Rock itself. A fairly gende day in one of the road. Members wishing to sleep over at nicest areas of our own national park 50kms, Caloola on the Saturday night should book $12 per car. with Max. 27 December to 1 January packwalk 24 January 31 January River or Creek Packwalk Wednesday daywalk "Wednesday daywalk Leaders: Pat and Eric Pickering Leader: Ken Free Leaden Col McAlister 2C/D/E/F Phone: 6295 8894 Phone: 6288 4171 Phone: 62862128 The January edition of our scries of monthly NPA has two "monthly" midweek walks in The intention is to provide a challenging walk mid-week walks. Phone leader for details, January. Phone leader for details, which will but with some relaxation and swimming. And which will be derermined nearer the date. be determined nearer the date. celebrate the new millenium (again!) in the 26 January (Friday, Australia Day) daywalk 4 February Sunday daywalk bush. Possible areas are Bundundah Creek, Big Hole/Marble Arch Brindabella Range Ramble Ettrema Creek or the Shoalhaven in the Leader: Ken Free Leaden Steven Forst Morton National Park Contact leaders for Map: Kain 1:25 000 2/A details including transport arrangements and 2A/E Map:ACT 1:100000 costs. Numbers limited. Phone: 6295 8894 Phone: 279 1326(w),251 6817(h) 7 January Sunday daywalk Meet at Canberra Railway Station, Kingston, Meet at picnic area carpark on Uriarra road Kosciuszko Main Range Lakes at 8.30am. A pleasant walk on a dedicaied just off the Cotter road (near Duffy) at Leaden Brian Slee walking track to the Big Hole, a vast unfenced 8.30am. A fire trail walk through the tall Map: Mt Kosciuszko 1:50 000 sinkhole (beware 114m deep!), and Marble 'shady' forest between the Cotter River and 2A/C/D Arch, a limestone cave through a ridge, the Brindabella Road. Nestled in a south east Phone: 6281 0719(h), 6261 3509(w) followed by a narrow, spectacular limestone facing valley this moist temperate/alpine Our first daywalk of the new millenium gorge ending in a swimming hole. Drive eucalyptus forest provides for pleasant walking (again!). Park at Charlotte Pass and cross the through Captains Flat with some gravel. It will even in summer. Some views of Canberra. Snowy River. Proceed to Mount Lee via be necessary to paddle across the Shoalhaven, 80 kms, $20 per car. Mounts Clarke and Northcote (views of Lake so bring sandshoes or thongs, etc 180kms, Albina), or to Carruihers Peak via Headley $45 per car. 9-11 February three day car camp Tarn and Blue Lake. Flowers, .views, lots of Thredbo Diggings wow on this walk! Remnant snow. Insect 28 January Sunday daywalk Leaders: Adrienne Nicholson and Margaret repellent may be required. Numbers limited. Mt Gingera from Ginini Aston Book early with leader. Early start required. Leaden Barbara Edgar 2A 430kms, S108 plus $15 for vehicles without 2A Map: Mt Kosciuszko 1:50 000 permit. Map: Corin Dam 1:25 000 Phone: 6281 6381 (Adrienne), 6288 7563 Phone 6230 5685(h), 6264 2991(w) (Margaret) 14 January Sunday daywalk Meet at the carpark on Uriarra Road just off Friday walking for those who can make ii for Rob Roy the Cotter Road at 8.30am. A walk from a long weekend (unofficial). Possible Saturday Leaden Col McAlister Mt Ginini carpark to Mt Gingera via Pryors walk Dead Horse Gap along Cascade track Map: Tuggeranong 1:25 000 Hut and return, a total of 14km. The climb to Cascade Hut and return. Other options 1A from the hut to the summit is about 200m, include using the chairlift from Thredbo and Phone: 6288 4171 but the views are well worth the effort. walk to Kosciuszko and back. Option exists The southernmost pan of Canberra Nature 120kms, $30 per car. on Sunday to link up with Steve Hill's Mt Park. A steep-in-parts climb for wonderful Townsend expedition. Half or full day walks, 30 January to 8 February Wollemi views to the west and east, plus different views or simply relax by the river around the and Goulbum River National of Canberra to the north. Meet at Kambah campsite. Bookings for the campsite cannot Parks Village Shops at 8.00am so we can miss the be made so 'first in best positioned'. Please Leaden Graham Scully heat of the day. Short distance, no charge. phone one of the leaders by Wednesday Phone: 6230 3352 7 February. 430kms, $108 plus $15 for 20 January Saturday evening walk Wbllemi is second in size only to Kosciuszko vehicles without permit. Naas Creek / Grassy Creek area among che NSW national parks, and has an Leaden Martin Chalk awesome reputation for ruggedness. This 10 February Saturday work party Maps: Yaouk, Colinton, Shannons Flat, exploratory visit will nibble at the edges' to Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group Bredbol:25 000 give panici pants an overall feel of the park for Leaden Eleanor Stodart 2A/B/C possible future walks. Graham has a huge Phone: 62815004 Phone: 6292 3502(h), 6268 4864(w) amount of information and suggestions from Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre at 9.15am Leave about 4pm, return about 10pm. An people who know the area, so the program is or Yankee Hat carpark at 10.00am. Weeding, evening walk in the Naas Creek/Grassy Creek flexible and will be decided by participants. wilding removal or other work for area of southern Namadgi. There may be a Maximum number of ten. Distances and rehabilitation of the Boboyan pine area. Tools short car shuffle. Phone leader for details. costings to be worked out later. Phone leader will be provided- for details and bookings. 20—21 January weekend packwalk Table Top Mountain Leader: Steven Forst Map: Denison 1:25 000 3A/B/C Phone: 6251 6817(h), 6256 5236(w) Contact leader by Wednesday. A walk from Delany's Hut, across the Eucumbene River and camping high on waterhole Creek. Return via Four Mile HUL 350kms, $88 per 11 February Sunday daywalk 28 February 10—12 March long weekend carcamp Mt Towns end Wednesday daywalk WallagaLake Leader. Steven Hill Leader. Ken Free Leader. Len Haskew 4A/C/E Phone: 6295 8894 Map: Central Tilba 1:25 000 Map: Mt Kosciuszko 1:50 000 The February edition of our series of monthly Phone 6281 4268 Phone: 6231 9186 mid-week walks. Phone leader for details, A carcamp at Ocean Lake Caravan Park (fee), A day of fabulous views when the wildflowers which will be determined nearer che date. 7kms north of Bermagui. should still be in full bloom. This walk will Day 1: Meet at 10.30am at Pains General 2-4 March three day packwalk proceed only if the weather is likely to be Store, Tilba Tilba, just offthe realigned Princes Micalong, Goobarragandra and Tumut sunny. We drive to Thredbo (2.5 hrs) and Highway. Climb Mt Dromedary for vie" Valleys catch the chair to the top of Crackenback. Montague Island and much of the Leaden Ross Walker We walk along the track towards Mt Return through a delightful stan- 3A Kosciuszko and then along the Main Range rainforest. The climb is steep — 800m in Maps: Bobbys Plains, Lacmalac, Blowering track to Muellers Pass. We turn off to climb 5.5kms, but its mosdy downhill on the way 1:25 000 Mt Townsend. If there is time we will stroll home. Bring a camera. Those unable or Phone: 6254 7117 north along the spur to Alice Rawson Peak unwilling to undertake this considerable climb A three day walk based around a section of for some additional stunning views. The walk may be able to arrange a 4WD lift to the the Hume and Hovell track. After initial camp will require good fitness, will be partly saddle by contacting the Umbarra Cultural at Bossawa campsite, subsequent camps at offtrack, and will involve some climbing. It Centre on 02 4473 7232 (ac a fee). brings with it an early start and late return to The Hole and on Walls Creek The last day Day 2: A coastal walk of about 9kms from Canberra, but the sights are absolutely worth will involve a walk into Tumut. Walkers Wallaga Lake to Bermagui. A fairly easy walk it.. Ring leader by Friday evening to register should be fita s some steep climbs are involved. mosdy near the sea. There are ample rewards and for details of the meeting place. 430kms, Contact leader after 1 January and by in the form of coffee shops, fish and chips $108 plus $15 for vehicles without permit. 9 February for details and bookings (numbers shops and a pub when we get there! When limited). 200kms, $50 per car. 18 February Sunday daywalk sufficiendy refreshed and rested we'll walk off 3 March Saturday daywalk Pig Hill our excesses by returning the 9kms back to Rendezvous Creek Leaden Colin McAlister the Lake (car shuffle is definitely an option). Leader: Rob 2A Forster Plenty of birds, bring binoculars. 3A7B Map: Umburra 1:25 000 Day 3: For chose who can stay on an extra Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25 000 Phone: 6288 4171 day Len will see if he can arrange a crip Phone: 6249 8546 A pleasant walk mainly through timbered Wallaga Lake with members of che low. Meet at Kambah Village shops at 8.30am. country on fire trails. Excellent views to the indigenous community. A delightful walk through typical Namadgi north and also to the east across the Please contact Len two weeks beforehand woodland and valley starting from Murrumbidgee to Belconnen. Total climb of (ie by 24 February) if you would like to go so Rendezvous Creek — Boboyan Road, and about 400m. Meet at Uriarra Road car park that accommodation can be organised at the exiting to the Nursery Swamp carpark in just off the Cotter Road at 8.30am- 50kms, caravan park. 400kms, $100 per car. Orroral Valley. Car shuffle required. llOkms, $12 per car. $28 per car. 11 March Sunday daywalk 24—25 February weekend packwalk Mt Twynam and Watsons Crags 4 March Sunday daywalk Corang River Leaden Steve Hill Monga Leader: Phil Gatenby 4A/C/E Leaden Len Haskew 4A/D/E Map: Mc Kosciuszko 1:50 000 2A/B/C Maps: Corang, Endrick 1:25 000 Phone: 6231 9186 Maps: Monga and Araluen 1:25 000 Phone 6254 3094 A day of fabulous views not available from Phone: 6281 4268 A walk in the headwaters of Corang River in Mt Kosciuszko. This walk will proceed only Join the Friends of the Mongarlowe River on a the Budawangs. We will visit Corang Lagoon if the weather is likely to be sunny. We drive walk to the ancient Eucriphias of Monga and a few other places on and near the river. to Charlotte Pass carpark (2.5hrs) and follow (if you're aTolkien fan you'll be enthralled by Opportunities for swimming if the weather the Main Range track to the Blue Lake this place). Meet at the Canberra Railway is hoc. Second day may include a climb to the lookout. We climb Mt Twynam (2196m, third Station, Kingston at 7.45am. 200kms, top of Corang Peak. 250kms, $63 per car highest in Oz). Then we trek to the spur $50 per car plus a donation to the Friends. known as Watsons Crags forunmatche d views 25 February Sunday daywalk 10 March Saturday work party of the grand Western Fall wilderness and far Bungonia Gorge Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group beyond. The walk requires good fitness,wil l Leaden Mike Smith Leaden Eleanor Stodart be largely offtrack and will involve regular 2A/E Phone: 62815004 climbs which are steep in pans. It brings with Map: Caoura 1:25 000 it an early start and a late return to Canberra, Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre at 9.15am Phone: 62862984 but che sights are supremely rewarding. Ring or Yankee Hat carpark at 10.00am. Weeding, Meet at Southwell Park netball cencre on leader by Friday evening to register and for wilding removal or other work for Northbourne Ave Lyneham at 8.00am. details of the meeting place. 430kms, rehabilitation of the Boboyan pine area. Tools A steep walk on track down to the junction $108 plus $15 for vehicles without permit. will be provided. of the Shoalhaven River and Bungonia Creek. Follow creek upstream through spectacular Bungonia Gorge which involves some rock scrambling. Climb (400m) out via the extremely steep 'Efflux' route. 220kms, $55 per car. 16-18 March 25 March Sunday daywalk Grose Valley and Blue Gum Forest Mulligans Flat Bird Walk Leader: Ross Walker Leader: Beverley Hammond 2/3A 1A Map: CMA Blue Mtns— Burragorang Map: Canberra 1:150 000 Phone: 6288 6577 Phone: 6254 7117 The Mulligans Flat Bird Walk was launched Day 1: Victoria Falls lookout to Acacia Flat on 1 November. Bring a snack, field guide campsite via Blue Gum Forest. Day 2: daywalk and binoculars for this 6km amble. Meet at to Govetts Leap Falls and Pulpit Rock and the Mulligans Flat Nature Park carpark about return. Day 3: Acacia Flat to Govetts Leap 2.5km north of Gungahlin Town Centre on lookout. A walk for fit packwalkers bearing the Gundaroo road at 9.00am. in mind there are sections of steep ups and 24 March to 7 April extended packwalk downs in the valley, which is 600m deep. Wilsons Promontory, The Sequel Contact leader between 1 January and Contact: Syd Comfort 23 February for details and bookings Phone: 6286 2578 (numbers limited). 650kms, $162 per car, plus share of taxi fares. Strict regulations apply to walking in this park, and early bookings and advance payment are 18 March Sunday daywalk required by the park management. Following Wee Jasper Syd's November Prom walk we have a number Leader: Col McAlister of spaces we've been able to defer to March - 1A April. So some of you who were unable to go Map: H&H track notes in November will get another crack at it. The Phone: 6288 4171 details are essentially as for the November A fully guided tour of the magnificent Careys expedition - Drive to Wilson's Prom and Cave and a stroll through part of the camp at Tidal River on first day. Then walk Wee Jasper Nature Reserve. Booking and prior two circuits of about six days each in north payment essential. Please contact leader before and south sections of the park with a day or Wednesday 28 February so that special tourfs) two break between. Contact Syd for details. can be arranged. Departure will be from the Expressions of interest in leading The Sequel carpark off Uriarra Road near the Cotter Road especially appreciated. at 8.00am. I60kms, $40 per car plus cave entry fee for each person. Something differ en ttolo ok forward to in our 24—25 March weekend packwalk winterprogram... Mt Burbidge 29 July Sunday daywalk/shufHe (?) (date to Leaden Martin Chalk be confirmed) 2A/D/E A winter walk on snow shoes to the Maps: Rendezvous Creek, Yaouk 1:25 000 Paralyser Phone: 6268 4864(w), 6292 3502(h) Leader: Brian Slee We will try again this year and hope for better IB (in snow) weather. Walk from Yankee Hat carpark across Map: Mt Kosciuszko 1:50 000 old Gudgenby station to Middle Creek From Phone: 6261 3509(w), 6281 0719(h) the cascades, up the southern arm to camp Our first snowshoe walk Need to be fit, but below Mt Burbidge. Sunday morning will see snowshoe experience not necessary. a packless scramble up Burbidge followed by Snowshoes (worn with ordinary boots) can a return along our Saturday route. Be prepared be hired from Jurkiewicz (Fyshwick) and for rock scrambling and regrowth. Call leader Wilderness and/or Paddy Pallin (Jindabyne). by the previous Wednesday for bookings. From Gurhega climb on to the Paralyser from I40kms, $35 per car. Farm Creek and follow ridge to trig point and beyond. Superb views of Main Range and Perisher. Early start (to secure parking) and early finish. Book early with leader, bearing in mind that walk will be dependent on favourable weather outlook. 430kms, $108 per car, plus $15 for vehicle without permit. Warrumbungle and Kaputar National Parks
Max Lawrence has provided these photos of an NPA car camp held in the Warrumbungle and Kaputar National Parks in November 2000.
Gene technology in agriculture continued from page 8 procedures are available on: http:// been no reported health or of children under the age of five in www.health.gov.au/tga/genetech/ environmental problem associated Southeast Asia. iogtr.htm. US information is with large-scale use of GM crops Linda concluded by saying, "Gene available from http:// grown in the USA since the mid- technology in agriculture has been www.aphis .usda. gov/biotechnolgy/.l 1990s. Conversely, there are now portrayed as either a magic bullet Risks are weighed by regulatory indications that the promised that will solve all the problems of agencies according to their benefit of GM crops are being agriculture, or a disaster that will probability. Risks such as the realised. Linda drew attention to a see the end of the world as we know transfer of antibiotic genes from GM Swiss research group that has it. As always, the truth is somewhere crops to other organisms are recently reported the development in between. Wisely used, it can regarded as highly unlikely on the of GM rice containing enhanced increase the efficiency and basis of current scientific evidence. levels of pro-vitamin A. This crop sustainabilty of agriculture and offer Mandatory safety testing is a pre has the potential to help alleviate benefits for human health." requisite for the release of any new the suffering caused by vitamin A Len Haskew GM food onto the market. There has deficiency that afflicts 70 per cent Namadgi National Park Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Project
This article is reproduced from Seedlings totalling Environment ACT's year 2000 over 4000 locally annual report edition of The Scribbly propagated, mixed Gum newsletter with the kind native, over-storey permission of the editor and the species have been author. planted in areas where The Gudgenby Bush Regeneration seeding strike rates are (previously called Boboyan Pines) low. The use of tree Project is showing moderate success guards has been trialed to date. Weeds within the clear- on these plants, with fallen areas are largely controlled mixed results. Plastic (blackberry infestations may be tree guards on bamboo increasing), pine wildings are stakes (total cost Some seedlings from seed broadcast in July 1998 85c each) are inefficient removed before they grow to any size are now over six feet tall. and eucalypts and acacias are in wind prone areas. Two showing good growth rates across litre cartons processed as Photo Eleanor Stodart much of the cleared land. ACT tree guards with bamboo stakes to extensive weed invasion in the Forests have been encouraged to (total cost 33c each) appear to be the newly disturbed areas. Weed control undertake clear-fall of the best option and one thousand of activities, however, have kept this remaining marketable pine over the these have been purchased for trial. invasion to a manageable level. Weed next year and we are well on the way Wayne Sayer (from NNP) built a control activities include herbicide to seeing the last exotic pine in the greenhouse at Glendale depot that spraying of briar rose, nodding Gudgenby valley. will provide a suitable growing thistle, blackberry, St John's Wort by The removal of the Boboyan pines environment for seedlings to be used park staff and contractors. in the Gudgenby Valley of Namadgi on the project over the next ten The Gudgenby Bushies, the 1st National Park (NNP) began late in years. Over 3000 tube stock Canberra Scouts, the 1997. Shortly thereafter a program seedlings are currently growing Crowajingalong Venturers, and to recreate natural ecosystems in the here. The cost of having 3000 Green Corps have, with the aid of area previously under pines seedlings grown at a commercial hand tools dug out nodding thistle, commenced. The project to date has nursery would exceed the building blackberry, pine wildings and St about 203 hectares of the 380 costs of the greenhouse. John's Wort and cut & dabbed briar hectare (total area) pine forest The Gudgenby Bushies, having rose over most of the Hospital Creek cleared, burnt and seeded, with a undertaken a Greening Australia area and much of the Bogong Creek further 32 hectares felled and ready seed propagation course, have grown revegetation area. In addition last to be burnt. 600+ seedlings at Greening financial year two GBRG work- Initially a working group was Australia's Aranda depot. The parties, one National Parks formed from a number of experts in Friends of the Botanic Gardens have Association work-party and several associated fields. This group also grown several hundred days effort by the Green Corps team provided advice on the first stages seedlings for the project on a have removed over 2000 pine of revegetation. volunteer basis with NNP supplying wildings from adjacent bushland. The assistance of a number of the seed and materials. Exclosures designed to eliminate volunteer groups along with the Greenfleet is a campaign that grazing pressures and ensure the Gudgenby Bush Regeneration raises funds from motorists' establishment of native vegetation Group (GBRG or Gudgenby subscriptions and uses these islands (providing a future seed Bushies) and the input of Namadgi resources to combat greenhouse source) have been built. A Natural staff and resources has been emissions. Their Carbon Busters Heritage Trust (NHT) grant to GBRG invaluable in the progress of this program supports the planting of has enabled a contractor to be paid for project. native trees. Greenfleet have agreed the construction of eleven rabbit and Broadcasting a seed mix after a to raise and plant 15000 seedlings kangaroo proof exclosures (20 x 20 high intensity controlled burn of the at the Boboyan pines next Spring. metre) at Hospital Creek. Additionally pine slash has produced relatively Weed control of invasive weeds in three larger exclosures (50 x 50 metre) good seedling growth across the old the newly cleared areas is the have been constructed within the pine compartments. The vast highest priority of the project beyond Bogong Creek compartments. A100 x majority of this, at times strenuous establishing over-storey species.The 50 metre exclosure has been erected task, has been undertaken by relatively good growing season over volunteers. the last two years has contributed continued on next page Walking and talking the land
Over the first weekend in September, the group Australians for Reconciliation, led by Flora Macdonald, organised a most interesting program of activities within Canberra and the Tharwa Outward Bound Centre. Five NPA members were among the 70 people who took part. An Aboriginal Heritage Officer with the Parks Service, dean freeman Dean Freeman, and several Ngunnawal Ngunnawal people accompanied two busloads of participants who were all interested in walking and talking the land. Saturday was occupied with visiting an axe grinding grooves site, a scarred trees site, a tool making site and an ochre site, all within the city boundary. After a barbecue meal at the Outward Bound Centre, people sat around the campfire and listened to speakers, before going to bed. Next morning, people gathered in a large tent and shared their Life stories with each other. Mrs O'Shea, Mr Williams and Matilda House spoke of their lives as children on Holywood Reserve, Yass. Other people spoke of why they wanted to be involved in the reconciliation process. During Aboriginal Reconciliation Week, association The afternoon session ended with a smoking ceremony member Flora Macdonald organised an inspection of conducted by Matilda and the painting of a banner to some Aboriginal sites around Canberra. Here, commemorate the weekend. Aboriginal Heritage Officer Dean Freeman explains seed grinding at a Theodore site. Photo Reg Alder Fiona MacDonald Brand
Namadgi National Park Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Project continued from page 10 adjacent to the Yankee Hat carpark Gudgenby Bush regeneration area along with estabUshing transects for to accommodate the 2000 Olympic was gained with the support of the monitoring, setting up photo Landcare seedlings to be planted in Gudgenby Bushies and we have monitoring sites, and help with an Spring. applied for a similar project in ANU research program. Chris Webb, Water quality monitoring was Round 19. The Green Corps an Honours student with the carried out by GBRG volunteers members gain experience and Department of Forestry, ANU, is using a borrowed Waterwatch kit training whilst greatly assisting the investigating the impact of until June '99. Interest in this project in the following activities: kangaroos on seedling revegetation. activity was very low and the • tree planting In addition to the NHT grant, the program is no longer carried out. • rabbit control Gudgenby Bush Regeneration group Little or no variation in test results • wood collection and splitting (for were successful in obtaining an (indicating the pines project is not NNP's picnic areas) Olympic Landcare grant to plant having a detrimental effect on • track construction 2000 seedlings adjacent to the waterways) may have contributed to • pine wilding control Yankee Hat carpark (the completion the demise of Waterwatch. • fencing of the planting will coincide with the We may try to assess stream • weed identification and control Olympic torch relay entering quality next Spring by collecting • seed collection Canberra). macro invertebrates under the • plant propagation Thank you to all who have AusRivas program. • broom monitoring contributed to this, the biggest Water quality assessment will Volunteers including the revegetation project of its type in this continue to be undertaken on Gudgenby Bush Regeneration region. Special thanks to the core samples sent to Ecowise every 6 Group Inc, National Parks group of the Gudgenby Bushies who months. This will be paid for by the Association, ACT Venturers, the attend the monthly workparties and GBRG NHT funds. Namadgi volunteer program to staff and volunteers involved with participants and others have been the slash burns. Green Corps responsible for most of the seeding, Steve Welch A Green Corps Major Project in weed control, plant propagation and Ranger Round 14 and Round 17 for the pine wilding removal at Gudgenby PARKWATCH Australian alps walking track Topographic map resurvey: Hooded plovers under cover re-route 3rd edition 1:25000 maps The Hooded Plover is a small wading In April this year work commenced The Land Information Centre (LIC) bird found in coastal shallows, inlets on the 5km re-route of the is in the process of resurveying the and along sandy beaches. They are Australian Alps Walking Track 1:25000 map series commonly used often very difficult to spot amongst (AAWT) within Namadgi National by bushwalkers. The current edition the seaweed or the edge of salt lakes. Park. The project, which aimed to maps are well known for marking Disturbance by four wheel drives divert the track of two relatively topography reasonably accurately, is a major threat to the survival of busy public roads, was identified as but many fire trails and walking these birds. In every state except a high priority in the AAWT tracks are either not marked or Victoria, where it is illegal to drive Management Strategy, 1997. The completely wrong. These errors are on beaches, off-road vehicles on project received received funding largely due to the maps being based beaches have been responsible for from the Australian Alps Liaison on ground surveys and aerial destroying nests. In the Coorong Committee and was matched by a photography dating back to the region of South Australia, a scientific $10 000 from the ACT parks and 1970's. survey has found that 87% of nests Conservation Service. Recently the LIC has commenced were run over by off-road vehicles, More than 90% of the new track is surveying for a 3rd edition map destroying eggs and chicks. complete. The remainder will be series. These maps should start Wandering dogs can also disturb, completed in Spring with the appearing in local map shops soon. chase and kill flightless Hooded installation of decking on a number The resurvey is based on new aerial Plover chicks. of bridges together with track photography and a small amount of Wildlife News, April-June 2000. signage and appropriate markers. ground surveys. This re-route between Booroomba Comparing the new maps to the Rocks carpark and the Honeysuckle old 2nd edition the following changes So long and thanks for all the Creek Plateau takes the AAWT can be seen: beef alignment of Booroomba Road and Queensland's Brigalow Belt • They are on the GDA94 datum Honeysuckle Road. By taking the stretches in a 350-kilometre swathe and not the old AGD66 datum. track off roads the walkers from the New South Wales border This means the 1 kilometre grid experience and safety will be greatly north to Townsville, and is marked on the map has changed. enhanced. characterised by Acacia harpophylla The difference is about 200m. The lower 2km of new track (brigalow) woodlands. Only 2.2% of This also means that grid follows a formerly overgrown, the area is protected in conservation references read from old maps disused 4-wheel drive track while reserves. will not transfer correctly to the the top 3km of the track has been While grazing pressure, timber new maps. (The new maps have benched in by hand. It gently follows cutting, inappropriate fire regimes the old AGD66 datum marked the natural contours of the land and exotic weeds (most notoriously faintly on the margins, so you can where possible to minimise drainage the prickly pear) have all placed read old grid references. This problems. Water diversion bars have stress on species and ecosystems of means that from now on you been installed along the length of the this region the ball and chain is the must specify from which map new alignment with hardwood steps major culprit. Clearing using large datum a grid reference is taken located in steeper areas. Several bulldozers harnessed together with to avoid confusion.) watercourses have had footbridges a ship's anchor chain weighted by a • They are printed on glossy paper. placed over them with very little giant steel ball has been a speciality • The cadastral information is disturbance to the environment. of the region since the 1960s. printed in more detail. This not only prevents wet feet but Clearing continues at around 2000 • There is a 1:25000 aerial photo also impacts on water flow. square kilometres per year, every on the back, of the full map area! The sourcing of materials was year. • Roads and tracks and vegetation carefully planned to obtain an This has resulted in the Brigalow boundaries should be more environmentally sound outcome. Belt now having the largest number accurately shown. The hardwood steps and bridge of threatened ecosystems of any spans were all salvaged from a new The Bushwalker, August 2000. Queensland bioregion (70 out of a powerline easement tree clearing total of 163 vegetation types are activity. The decking for the considered threatened), and some of 8 footbridges was obtained from an Australia's most threatened Australian firm, specialising in the woodland species. Included in the use of mill waste from durable toll is the northern hairy nosed eucalypt species that may otherwise wombat, which has been reduced to not be used. continued on page 13 from the Alps, Spring 2000. : PARKWATCH continued from page 12
just 70 animals. Eighteen reptile The island is surrounded by the donation will be tax deductible species are considered at risk, To wnsville-Whitsunday State Wendy Tubman, a former including the pretty golden-tailed Marine Park (SMP), which in turn Canberran , has been here letting gecko and Allen's lerista (a is surrounded by the Great Barrier people know what is happening. burrowing skink that may soon have Reef Marine Park (GBRMP). The If you would like to help, or just : the dubious distinction of being the island is under threat from a huge find out more about what is going . first reptile extinction in Australia's canal estate-style residential/ on Friends of Nelly Bay have a : history). tourism project involving excision of website: www.powerup.com.au/ Expansion of beef farming is the part of the SMP and dredging in the -rodjulie/ or you can contact Wendy : main excuse for clearing. GBRMP to provide spoil to build the on
Some reflections from the West continued fro\
as threatened - the woylie or brush- distinguished Western Australian guttered in places by mountain tailed bettong, the quenda and the Tammarexplorer , survey-general, Premier bikes. This has become an all-too- tammar wallaby - have been and Commonwealth politician. Like common sight on walking tracks and removed from the threatened the original national parks in other the damage is difficult and costly to register.1 states - Royal in New South Wales, repair. As I walked this track As in other growing cities, the Tower Hill in Victoria and Belair in recently my thoughts turned across remaining areas of swamp and bush South Australia - it was for many the continent to Canberra and our along the narrow coastal plain near years a national park in name only successful campaign in late 1996 Perth are under immense pressures as it continued to be subjected to and early 1997 to stop the mountain from development. It only takes me logging, mining and wildflower bike championships being held about 15 minutes to drive south out collection. Kangaroo paw was down the western faces of Black of the city. But I fear that by the time removed from John Forrest and Mountain and Mt Majura. I'm ready to head back east in a few transplanted to Kings Park.2 There are only two places for years it will take significantly Ironically, it was a major mountain bikes in bush areas — on longer. Thankfully national parks development - the construction of formed roads or specially designated protect some stretches of southern the second eastern railway - that tracks. In trying to control the coastline - Yalgorup between really brought the natural values of problem the glib, unconvincing Yalgorup Mandurah and Bunbury and furthethe arer a to wider public notice, not response often heard is that south, Leeuwin-Naturaliste that unlike the more recent construction "education is the key". That is at extends for 120 kilometres between of the Gwydir Highway in northern best half a truth. The unfortunately Capes Leeuwin and Naturaliste. NSW that brought the beauty of the significant number of irresponsible The parks are often narrow —down Gibraltar Range to public attention riders will only take notice of to only 100 metres in places — but and the declaration of a sizeable consistent - and therefore costly - include sections that are relatively national park. policing with warnings and fines. wild and inaccessible. While the extractive industries Stephen Johnston National parks this year have now been removed from John celebrated their Western Australian Forrest and the rail Line has been 1 "Bush Telegraph", pp 6-7 in centenary on November 19, the day closed, the park faces other threats Landscape, Department of when more than 1500 hectares was because of its popularity and Conservation and Land proclaimed as Greenmount National proximity to Perth. A sad example Management, Spring 2000. Park after the scarp on which it lies is the Eagle's Nest circuit walking 2 "Premier Park", pp 22-27 in about 28 kilometres east of Perth. track that was constructed by Landscape, Department of Now comprising 2676 hectares, its members of the Perth Bushwalkers' Conservation and Land name was changed to John Forrest Club between 1993 and 1998 and Management, Spring 2000. National Park in 1947 after the has already become severely Book Review Poems On some of Judith Webster's travels huts of white pioneers - Tilting at Snowgums, by Mark in the last year or so, birds have O'Connor, photographs by Klaus The wind and the rats gnaw, often made a memorable impression. The Hueneke, Tabletop Press, 1996. RRP in symphony, first was on a bird watching/wildlife $19.95 inc GST. at this ragged cathedral... safari in South Africa and the second Although not new, Tilting at and modern developments - occasion was closer to home — on Snowgums is worth drawing to the The "T"'s skidding anchors... Magnetic Island. attention of NPA members. The full of figures strong from friendly author is a well known Canberra poet gallows... Birthday birds and the photographer is a well known they exult, while accountants Canberra writer, photographer, rejoice... On thirtieth September... publisher and NPA member. With pale wing sweep The final poem is "A Ballad of the Those members who love the Three Blue Cranes flew Man from Snowy River", written to Snowy Mountains, in summer or And in the sky tell in new words an updated and winter, will find that the poems A halo drew express much of what they have felt fuller version of the story because while walking, skiing or working on the original poem has gone on They floated down hut repairs, and will allow them to growing in the imagination of To land with care spend time at home reliving their Australians. Soft grey-blue experiences. The photographs are mainly of Their plumage rare natural features, but huts and Many of the poems are wide- Dark fringed wings people are depicted, too. The ranging and contain elements of all They lifted high coloured photographs are grouped experiences, of people, place, skiing, In graceful pose... in two batches, probably for history and so on; others are brief We could but sigh! word pictures that encapsulate a practical reasons, and the Long black tails moment's vision or fleeting feeling. arrangement is aesthetically Shimmer and shake. All aspects of the mountains are satisfying. A few black and white Three Blue Cranes covered: photographs are scattered among the poems and include some of My birthday make... the geology, at Ramshead - historic interest. All are visually Faulted book-leaves of stone... A day to remember! pleasing and some satisfy as works at Cooleman Gorge - of art. With the poems, they make The Jekyll and Hyde ofMagnetic Water spurts from an old sea-bed ... this a book to be opened again and Island! the streams - again. I hope that the glimpse I have Sedate and quiet he steps about the And the Snowy wriggling below given you is enough to make you shopping mall. like an ecstatic worm seek a longer, fuller look. Elegant in tasteful dress - released prom months of stone... Subdued yet of artistic design. Eleanor Stodart the weather - Should you approach Beneath a bruised sky in deep May... His pace will quicken and, head down Only about 20 copies of this book are the first snow - in timid deference, still stocked by Tabletop Press and he'll hurry away. A shadow's negative can be ordered direct. Tabletop Press lurking under a stone ... BUT! also distributes some 200 titles by Come night... the flowers - other publishers. With a strong focus He stalks the garden plots Schools of silver snow daisies... on the Canberra and Monaro region, Emits a plaintive, eerie call. titles in the latest booklist are listed the animals - Louder and louder for easy reference under 10 a conspiracy of currawongs patter Inciting his evil clones headings, including Bushwalking I through the forest, To fearful chorus - Bushcraft I Camping Places! their gold-ringed eyes like pirates' Blood curdling! Guides / National Parks i First earrings Spine chilling! Aid; Canberra and Local Region; their song, a low kettle-bubbling Frail mortals tremble in their homes (!?) and History and Heritage of the mischief... Desperate and hysterical the cries High Country. A copy of the list can intensify Aborigines - be obtained from Tabletop Press, An occult babble erupts. Here the bodies came, unshod, in 2 Lambell Close, Palmerston, ACT Then silence. summer's warmth 2913, telephone (02) 6242 0995. slept round the coals, with a How strange and bizarre...this bird possum skin cloak..., Bush Stone Curlew Feathered friend or fiend? for above all else, these high valleys between preservation of personal well- Escapism demand respect. Within a few hours being and tending stock, many a cold my peaceful escape could be night must have been spent in the transformed into an ordeal - leaden upper reaches of this valley, away from The black of night is slowly seen off skies atop truncated hills, spawning a comforting fire and a warm meal. by the flat light of a new day. Points deafening winds which threaten to Many cycles of sun and moon have of light merge into the blue-grey of uproot every tree in sight. Just as passed in the valley of Grassy Creek. an ever-changing sky as wispy high quickly, horizontal rain can turn to Each witnesses some change, small clouds gradually assume the snow. To watch such changes, and though it may be. Despite these colours of a rose garden. wonder at the forces which generate changes, the enduring features of With the improving light comes them is one of life's great privileges. the valley are reliably present each better visibility. Crunchy, white One can only speculate at the activity time I visit. This guaranteed escape grass and foggy breath confirm that such changes would generate in experience makes this one of my what other senses have suspected people such as the Westermans. Torn favourite places. for some time. Martin Chalk No other creature is abroad at this hour. Perhaps the residents of the wild take such experiences as Calendar this for granted. Then again, maybe we humans are the ones who have Activity Dec Jan Feb Mar been deprived for too long. Committee meeting Thu7 Thul Thul The business of dawn must Environment Sub-committee1 Thul4 Thu8 Thu8 eventually end. I turn my mind and senses to my surroundings on General meeting Thul5 Thul5
Grassy Creek, in the far south of 2 Gudgenby Regeneration Sat9 SatlO SatlO Namadgi National Park. 3 In times gone, this valley Bulleting Working Group Tue6 supported rural families, and Christmas Party SunlO before them Aboriginal clans. ACT Alive4 Monl2 Abundant grass for stock and kangaroos, plentiful clear water High Plains and Mountain Tops5 FriS and space to expand must have proved tempting indeed for those Further Details free-spirited individuals who lived 1. David Large 6291 4830 2. Yankee Hat carpark 10am Eleanor Stodart before the ordered and invasive 6281 5004 or Syd Comfort 6286 2578 3. Syd Comfort 6286 2578 th days of the late 20 century. 4. Outings Program 5. Martin Chalk exhibition at Namadgi Visitor Centre Thomas and Mary Jane Westerman's humble homestead with its ornate barge boards and General meetings flowering garden beds tells of Thursday 19th April 2001 people who considered this valley Southern National Parks Large and Small very much their home. Dr. Tony Fleming, Director of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service Clear and calm days are a Southern Directorate. particular delight. Besides the The Southern Directorate of the Service manages 1800sqkm of Parks extending occasional, celebrating magpie, from just south of Wollongong to the Victorian boarder and past Albury in the the only sound is that faint west to the coast. As an outcome of the Southern Forests Decision more than murmur made by the primal 318 OOOha will soon be added to the reserve system. Dr. FTeming will talk forces which exist all around. The about the management of this diverse and expanding system of national parks. gradual march of shadows and th scurrying of ants combine to make Thursday 15 March 2001 the only discernible motion. Three miles above the Silk Road Meanwhile, the ever warming sun Francis Lawrence will talk about a recent trip to Mustag-Ata Mountain in brings life and relaxes tired souls. Xinjiang Province of Western China. Francis has visited many mountainous In such a threat-free environment regions around the world, where as well the mountains he takes a keen interest it can be difficult to conceive of life in the natural and cultural history of these often-remote places. in any other way. Thursday 15th February 2001 Gently, the leaves stir, giving me Legal Eagles for the environment. pause to focus on things of a larger Melissa Honner, the solicitor from the ACT Environmental Defender's Office will scale. The sky is now laced with speak on the EDO's role in environmental protection and advocacy in the ACT. cirrus and a distinct chill enters The EDO provides independent legal aid on environmental issues to the ACT the valley. The weather is about and surrounding NSW community. It also has played a strong role in legal to change and so is my attitude, education and legal reform of environmental legislation in the ACT. National Parks Association (ACT) New members welcome
Mick Kelly crosses Cave Creek in Nicoli Gorge during an NPA pack walk in October 2000. Photo Max Lawrence
NPA Bulletin POSTAGE If undelivered please return to: SURFACE National Parks Association of the ACT PAID PO Box 1940 Woden ACT 2606 I AUSTRALIA Print Post Approved MAIL PP 248831/00041