December 2006

NATIONAL PARKS ASSOCIATION OF THE ACT INC

Pat's Brindabella jaunt Mount Franklin update Protecting our parks Marine park update NPA BULLETIN Volume 43 number 4 December 2006

CONTENTS From the President 3 Camping ans skiing in the 1940s—Part 2 12 Christine Goonrey Geo/Hall

Editorial: now is the time for all good men and 3 Retracing old steps 13 women to come to the aid of the park Martin Chalk Neville Esau The Great Dividing Trail 14 Namadgi news 4 TedFleming Graffiti invade our hills and 6 Walk to Mt Tarn, 25-27 August 2006 15 Graeme Barrow Philip Gatenby Rogaining in Namadgi, friend or foe? 7 Mount Burbidge, 20-21 May 16 Philip Gatenby HighFire project underway 8 Graeme Wicks PARKWATCH 17 Compiled by Len Haskew red gum national parks: your help is needed! 8 Neville Esau NPA ACT news IS Pat's Brindabella jaunt Sunday 1 October 2006! 9 Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group news 18 Pat Miethke Martin Chalk

Batemans Marine Park Draft Zoning Plan on exhibition 10 Book review 19 from NPA NSW Journal Martin Chalk Biosurvey in Coleambally 11 Meetings and Calendar of events 20 from NPA NSW Journal

Articles by contributors do not necessarily reflect association opinion or objectives.

National Parks Association of the ACT Incorporated Conveners Inaugurated 1960 Outings Sub-committee Mike Smith 6286 2984 Aims and objectives of the Association [email protected] • Promotion of national parks and of measures for the protection of Publications Sub-committee Sabine Friedrich 6249 7604 fauna and flora, scenery, natural features and cultural heritage in Bulletin Working Group Neville Esau 6286 4176 (h) the Australian Capital Territory and elsewhere, and the [email protected] reservation of specific areas. • Interest in the provision of appropriate outdoor recreation areas. The NPA ACT office is in MacLaurin Crescent, Chifley, next to the • Stimulation of interest in, and appreciation and enjoyment of, preschool. It is staffed by volunteers but not on a regular basis. such natural phenomena and cultural heritage by organised field Callers may leave phone or email messages at any time and they will outings, meetings or any other means. be attended to. The post office mail box is cleared daily. • Cooperation with organisations and persons having similar Phone/Fax: (02)6282 5813 interests and objectives. Email: [email protected] • Promotion of, and education for, conservation, and the planning Address: PO Box 1940, Woden ACT of landuse to achieve conservation. 2606 Office-bearers Internet: www.npaact.org.au

Christine Goonrey 6231 8395 (h) The NPA ACT website is hosted by our 3 President fcnrzade [email protected] generous sponsor, Encode. Chris Emery 6249 7604 (h) Subscription rates (1 July to 30 June) Vice-President [email protected] Household membership $40 Single members $35 Sonja Lenz 6251 1291 (h) Corporate membership $30 Bulletin only $30 Secretary [email protected] Concession $25 Rod Griffiths 6288 6988 (h) Advertising Treasurer [email protected] [email protected] The Bulletin accepts advertisements and inserts. Contact the Editor for information and rates. Committee members NPA Bulletin Steven Forst 6251 6817 (h), 6219 5236 (w) Contributions of articles, letters, drawings and photographs are [email protected] always welcome. Items accepted for publication may also be Sabine Friedrich 6249 7604 published on the NPA website. Send all items to The Bulletin Team, [email protected] [email protected], or by post to the NPA office. Clive Hurlstone 6288 7592 (h), 040 778 3422 (mob) Deadline for March 2007 issue: 28 January 2007 cjhurls@bigpondnetau This Bulletin was produced by the NPA Bulletin Working Group. Judy Kelly 6253 1859 (h after 7.30pm) Printed by Copy-Qik, , ACT. [email protected] David Large 6291 4830 (h) ISSN 0727-8837 [email protected] Kevin McCue 6251 1291(h) Cover Photo: Pat Miethke and Barbara Edgar caught at a (Immediate Past President) [email protected] happy moment overlooking Brindabella National From the President The past few months have seen steady on Namadgi in time for our progress on a number of fronts. Russell 50th anniversary and we will be Watkinson, the new Director of the looking to members to make their Parks, Conservation and Lands Branch contribution to this so get out your old in Territory and Municipal Services, photos and journals and start thinking came to our last committee meeting to about what you would like to celebrate brief us about the re-structure and his about our beautiful national park. responsibilities. The financial outlook Our request for a review of the remains grim. We remain convinced Mt Franklin development got lost in the that forced savings will make a big hole system (theirs, not ours) but it is back in the conservation and management of on track and we are currently in our parks and reserves over the next negotiations with the government to see few years and we will be pursuing this if there is a workable solution to our at a political level over the next two concerns. The Great Australian powers of the Senate to hold up years. On a positive note, Russell Bushwalk worked beautifully with over legislation but the last year has thrown would like to take advantage of the 160 people enjoying dispersed walks in a new light on that. I find myself restructure to simplify and improve the Namadgi jointly led by park rangers recalling a recalcitrant Senate with career and pay structures for rangers. and NPA. We are already working on affection and wishing this current He is also keen to finalise the Namadgi plans for next year's GAB to continue government still had to barter and Management Plan and make it publicly building the event into a focus on badger such destructive legislative available. conservation and peaceful enjoyment of changes through all those long drawn The proceedings from the NPA the bush. out committee processes which used to Symposium in May are being printed as Kevin McCue and Sonja Lenz are seem so archaic. I write and we are plaxining a launch of preparing to represent NPA ACT at the And for a very weird note to end on the book and a celebration of a job well annual National Parks I leave you with the Prime Minister's done by the Publications Committee. Council meeting in Melbourne in late claim that "clean, green nuclear Other publications which this October. One of the items on the energy" would save us from climate committee are working on include a agenda is the changes being introduced change. I know politicians are forced to new edition of our Tree Guide which to the Environmental Protection and say some peculiar things from time to we hope to have ready in time for Biodiversity Act by the Federal Minister time in order to fit their political agenda Christmas and a new edition of the for the Environment, Senator Campbell. into some semblance of reality but what Frog and Reptile book which is just It appears the changes will make it on earth was he really minking? about out of stock. Next year we will be easier to build, mine or otherwise Christine Goonrey publishing a new title in our field guide "develop" environmentally sensitive series which we are very excited about: areas but harder to protect them. What a a guide to the orchids in the ACT, surprise! Many of us have been firm presented by David Jones. We are also believers in majority governments in begmning to plan for a beautiful book the past and supported a curb on the Editorial: now is the time for all good men and women to come to the aid of the park control and park infrastructure initiative and will welcome your maintenance. comments and help in bringing We highlight in this issue one problems to their attention. outcome of this deterioration in NPA has always had a strong services. Vandalism and graffiti are an volunteer program of work parties to unfortunate outcome of official neglect assist in park maintenance and control No one in the Canberra community and one that brings real costs to programs. With cut-backs in could have failed to get the message services and thus to the community in government services our assistance is that the ACT budget is in the red and attempting to repair, rectify, and control needed more than ever in ensuring that government services are being cut back this mindless damage. vital control and restoration work to save money. The school closure We are also reviving in this issue continues. Our outings program has the argument seems to have taken centre one answer to this and other park details; grab your hat and gloves and stage in this debate but the axe has also problems. Our monitoring form gives join a work party. You will learn as fallen on the former Environment ACT, you a convenient way to report and well as work, and have a satisfying and now known as Parks, Conservation, and comment on any park issue, good or enjoyable day! Lands. A smaller budget for PCL bad, as you enjoy, hopefully, your time Neville Esau means fewer environmental services, in our great outdoors this summer. We fewer staff on the ground, smaller park encourage you to use this resource. programs for weed and feral animal Park staff are very supportive of this Native title unlikely in ACT: hearing set down for August had been there are two management objectives cancelled at the family's request. for the park - to conserve the natural Chief Minister Mr Stanhope said it may still be environment and to provide for public It was unlikely that native title had possible for the Bells to join as use of the area for recreation, education survived over any ACT land, due to the signatories to the existing agreement and research (item 2 of Schedule 3 of grant of old NSW titles prior to the signed in 2001 by four other native title the Planning and Development Bill establishment of the ACT and grants of claimants, but the Government was also 2006). leaseholds since that time, the Chief happy for the existing court processes Under the new planning legislation, Minister and Minister for Indigenous to be exhausted, if that was what the prehminary assessments and public Affairs, Mr Jon Stanhope, said on Bells desired. environment reports will be abandoned September 25. Graeme Wicks in favour of an Environmental Impact He was responding to media reports Statement (EIS) as the sole method of that the Bell family was calling for an environmental impact. urgent meeting with the Government Land Act may curtail NPA Should we be making input to the and wanted to pursue a land use right consultation process? Should this be agreement, in the wake of a successful A quick look at the possible impact of raised at the Interim Namadgi Advisory Western Australian land title claim over the new Land (Planning and Board meeting? the Perth metropolitan area. Environment) Act on the consultation Christine Goonrey Mr Stanhope said a joint process for capital works like roads in management agreement had been is enough to set NPA responds to proposals to signed by the ACT Government and the alarm bells ringing. native title claimants in the ACT in There may be a significant loss of redevelop the Mount Franklin 2001, and the Bell family had declined the current right NPA has to proposals hut site an invitation to sign that agreement, being made public so that we are able The NPA has recently written to the choosing instead to pursue its own to make input into the environmental native title claim over the ACT. ACT Planning and Land Authority to impact of developments in Namadgi query their decision to approve a new The 2001 agreement involved the National Park because the operation of building adjacent to the site of the grant of a special 99-year Aboriginal the new legislation may be much more former hut, which was destroyed in the lease over Namadgi National Park, subjective and far less certain. 2003 fires. This' decision was made involving the land Current clear and unambiguous without an assessment and thus an claimants in joint management of the provisions for preliminary assessments opportunity for NPA to comment park. are to be replaced with much more Members will remember mat last issue "In January this year the National open-ended criteria. we reported on NPA's initial reaction to Native Title Tribunal refused to register Currently there is a mandatory reports that a new building had been an application to register the Bell requirement for a preliminary approved. The committee has now family's claim," Mr Stanhope said. assessment in the Land (Planning and analysed the decision and concluded "While the consequence of this decision Environment) Act 1991. For example, a that the development approval was is that the claimants have no right under preliminary assessment must be invalidly given and that the nature of the Native Title Act to be consulted undertaken for construction of any new the proposed development opens up about, or to negotiate about, land grants building or major road within the Park. new undefined uses for the site. and developments in the claim area, the The assessment is available for public decision does not prevent their claim NPA considers that there were no inspection and the NPA has the being mediated, and this is precisely grounds to exempt the proposal from a opportunity to comment on the what the ACT Government has been preliminary assessment. The nature of proposal. doing and continues to do." the proposal was to construct a public But under the new legislation, the facility adjacent to the site of the former Many mediation talks between mandatory requirement is replaced with Mt Franklin Chalet to provide shelter to Government officials and the Bells had an EIS being required only where the visitors and officials visiting the site occurred over many years. The most proposal has the "potential to have a and to reflect on and interpret the recent of these, arranged for July, had significant impact on the management heritage values of the former chalet - been cancelled because of the Bell objectives" for the Park (item 4 of bushfire replacement. The plans for the family's failure to meet deadlines, Schedule 4.3 of the Planning and building indicate that part is available while a Federal Court directions Development Bill 2006). It is noted that Namadgi news (continued) for public access and part is supported this dam with a few secured and not available. provisos about making sure the There are many new water source did not significant differences increase kangaroo numbers and between the previous adequate attention was given to building and the proposed weed suppression and erosion. building, the subject of the Secondly, the fire was started development application. For on a property adjoining the park example: at a time when weather (a) The development conditions could be expected to application relates to the push fire northwards. So, rather erection of a separate than the park being a fire threat structure that is not to to its neighbours, the encroach onto the neighbours prove to be a very footprint of the former specific fire risk to the park. Mount Burbidge (opposite) and Rotten Swamp (above) M FrarJclin Chalet. Part of our opposition to Grassy Photos Max Lawrence (b) The new building has a Creek fire trail was that a new architectural perfectly good fire trail runs character to that of the former Mt of Namadgi National Park and by the along the other side of the park fence Franklin Chalet in terms of scale Canberra Ski Club for day activities. on private property. It appears that we and form. We will keep you posted in progress now have to accept that the park needs (c) The former Chalet was used by in this ongoing dispute with the ACT its own line of defence and cannot rely the Canberra Ski Club and was not a Government to safeguard the natural on good neighbours to reduce the cost public facility. The new building is values of the park. of expensive works such as fire trails. at least in part a public facility and it Neville Esau Thirdly, we have learnt — again — is understood that the secured area that using bulldozers in the bush causes of the building is proposed to be great damage to the area they are meant used as a command centre in Lessons from fire in Namadgi to be protecting and proves less emergency situations in this area of In the last issue of the Bulletin we effective as the terrain becomes more the Namadgi National Park. reported ongoing efforts to reduce the difficult. This would support our view Given these facts it is clear that the damage being done to Namadgi by that bulldozers are not appropriate fire proposal should not have been exempt widening existing fire trails and grading fighting tools in rugged areas of the from a mandatory preliminary new ones. We are concerned that the park where we should be using water assessment under the Land Act. The upgrading of existing fire trails is bombing and remote area strategies. proposal is not for an alteration or causing substantial tree felling and However, we have to acknowledge that addition to the former Mt Franklin threatening significant erosion into park the Burnt Hill fire trail appears to have Chalet but rather for a new separate waterways. We are even more proven its value, so we need to take that structure which causes a significant concerned that the proposed new fire on board. change in the scale, size or purpose of trails, particularly Stockyard Spur and In summary, from what we can the existing situation. The views of the Orroral Ridge, invade precious areas of learn about the fire in October, we ACT Heritage Council support this. pristine wilderness for little return in remain convinced that we must NPA is concerned that the failure to terms of reducing fire risk. continue to resist the reliance on heavy undertake a preliminary assessment has Then, with the hottest, driest spring machinery to fight fires in rugged areas meant that a number of possible issues for a century creating the need (in early and wilderness, which is at the root of surrounding the development have not October) for the first total fire ban of our concern about existing and been considered. For example, the the season, we heard about a fire proposed fire trails. This includes an provision of a new public shelter may outbreak on the southern edge of even greater determination to oppose increase pressure on the area, including Namadgi. The fire was burning right Stockyard Spur and Orroral Ridge fire off-road use, illegal gathering of where the proposed Grassy Creek and trails. firewood and increased rubbish. In Burnt Hill fire trails would go. It burnt My father remembers fighting the short, the issue of whether it is an for two weeks and caused considerable 1952 fires on the Bega Valley with a appropriate place for a new recreational damage on both sides of the NSW/ACT borrowed car, wet sacks from the ice area has not been tested. border. As a result of the fire, factory and communication via public Rather than fight the issue in court, 140 hectares of the park were burnt, phone boxes with the switchboard at NPA has proposed to the Planning and many kilometres of grader tracks Bega. Perhaps one day we will look at Land Authority that conditions be degraded the area, and the proposed the current emphasis on heavy imposed on the development approval Burnt Hill fire trail was hastily machinery in wilderness with the same to limit the ways the building can be constructed, at least in part mixture of anger at such a dangerous used. Our conditions propose that the So, in fairness we have to ask what lack of appropriate resources and facility not be used for overnight we can Ieam from this and are we on respect for the resolve of the residential accommodation, that the the right tack with our current approach firefighters. public area of the facility be used only to fire management strategies in the Christine Goonrey for day recreation purposes, and that the park? For a start, the Mt Clear dam part of the facility which is not open to worked well in supplying a reliable the public be used only by park officials water supply reasonably close to the for purposes related to the management fire. It is reassuring to recall that we Graffiti invade our hills and rivers Those of us who puff and pant our way and Woden, and another on Gungahlin Apart from the stupid acts of the up Mt Taylor or are Hill. mentally challenged among us, there is rewarded for our exertions with sublime Removing graffiti vandalism on the another eyesore on the hills and along views of the Canberra district stretching reservoirs doesn't come cheap. the rivers—thedate d nature of so many to all points of the compass. Away on ActewAGL says it can "cost several rusting signs that could well have been the horizon are the splendid south-west thousand dollars to clean up a installed back in NCDC days. Many ranges, often resembling a blue barrier, reservoir". new signs have appeared at the entrance sometimes smoky, sometimes verging Vandalism is a depressing to reserves, however, and the on purple depending on the time of day occurrence on numerous hills within the Government is to be congratulated on and the weather. Canberra Nature Park system, of which that development. How much better it But the works of man—squalid, Mt Taylor and Tuggeranong Hill are would be for the visitor and the resident utilitarian structures on the two but two examples, and also on walking were the Government to embark on a summits, used for the transmission of tracks within the consistent signage program across its television signals—detract from these Corridor. But perhaps the worst parks and reserves, replacing existing wonderful vistas. Their appearance is instance of the lot occurred several ancient signs and adding new ones. For made even worse by the work of graffiti years ago with the torching of a small instance, there is no sign on Stockdill "artists" who have left their imbecilic shearing shed in the Mulligans Flat Drive advertising the location of the scribbles on walls at both sites and on reserve in Gungahlin, once such a Shepherds Lookout path and of another the transmission pole at Tuggeranong welcome feature for those walking in track that takes you down to the Hill. the reserve. Little remains of this timber Molonglo. Recently when researching the third and corrugated iron shed, which I A fine example of what could be edition of my book Walking Canberra's photographed for the second edition of done with our parks and reserves can be Hills and Rivers I asked the owner of Walking Canberra's Hills and Rivers in seen along various tracks in the these buildings, Broadcast Australia Ply 1997. Vandals were suspected although Murrumbidgee River Corridor where Ltd, whether the graffiti could be I have not read any account of this marker posts every 200 metres tell removed and the look of the buildings despicable act nor of anyone being walkers how far there is to go and the improved by having them painted in charged. distance covered. This simple initiative colours sympathetic to the landscape. I If you climb to the top of Mt Painter must be welcomed by many who use also suggested that the sites be fenced behind Cook (Belconnen) you will see, these trails, especially if they are to prevent future vandalism. apart from the splendid views, four visitors. The reply I got was that, no, fences imaginative display stands with wide Recently I was in the Molonglo could not be erected because Broadcast landscape photographs and accom­ Gorge and was able to assure a group of Australia is restricted to the building panying text. The trouble is, one has a dozen bushwalkers from Kiama, that footprints, leaving no room for fences. been vandalised beyond recognition yes, they were at the Blue Tiles picnic It made the point that graffiti at both and another defaced. area. They thought they were short of sites is cleaned up every 18 months or On the historic Tuggeranong stone their objective, so a sign would have so and that it "is a never-ending and walL seen on the Pine Island North/Red made it obvious. I wonder if the costly task". I have no doubt that it is, Rocks Gorge track, an informative Stanhope Government with its budget but maybe negotiations with explanatory sign has been vandalised cuts hurting our parks and reserves ever government could lead to the sites by what could be a political thinks about the number of visitors who being enlarged to accommodate fences. statement—'This is a convict wall' has may come here to walk the territory's They would cost money to erect, but been scrawled across it. hills and rivers. The Kiama group spent over time should pay for themselves If you decide to walk into four days in the ACT walking in through savings on graffiti removal. Shepherds Lookout in Belconnen, off Namadgi and Tidbinbilla. But their Why I suggested painting and Stockdill Drive, you will first have to accommodation was in Queanbeyan, fencing is because ActewAGL is pick your way across smashed glass not Canberra. What would they have engaged in a similar graffiti removal that crunches underfoot and have your spent on motels, meals, petrol and program wim its reservoirs, also eyes affronted by spilt oil and graffiti sundries? $5000 or more? Peanuts I targeted by spray-can vandals. Most if sprayed onto rocks. Once when I was guess to politicians who deal in not all reservoirs are fenced these days out there, old household furniture and millions, but an indicator nevertheless with ActewAGL slowly removing other goods had been dumped in a ditch of what the financial returns could be if graffiti by painting over it with an at the entrance. the Government ensured that our attractive green "wave" design two Meanwhile, down at the Cotter treasured hills and riverswer e cared for metres or so up fromth e base. There's a Caves, reached via the Bullen Loop properly and promoted vigorously. striking illustration of this on Track at the Cotter, an information sign Graeme Barrow Hindmarsh Drive between Fyshwick on a platform has also been vandalised. Your observations can help

How can you help the NPA ACT monitor environmental problems and illegal activities in our national parks and nature reserves?

Don't forget to take a copy of our monitoring form, included with this issue, when you go on your next bush walk. Rogaining in Namadgi, friend or foe?

Some of our members have been people confidence wondering what rogaining is and when in the bush. how it impacts on Namadgi Teamwork is also National Park, A big issue for NPA an essential skill, ACT is the fact that rogaining events as rogainers must often have up to 200 participants at remain with their a time. In order to find out more team for the about rogaining Christine Goonrey whole event, and met with Emma Murray from decide which controls they visit Rogaining ACT who provided the and in what order. following article to introduce us to As a result, rogaining as a sport. different teams choose different routes, and during an event participants become well dispersed over the At the start, teams head off in all directions. course area. Also, the range in abilities of different teams Australian Rogaining Association means that some will go to more areas (available on the ARA's website: of the course than others. http://rogaine.asn.au/ara/docs/Environ On average, for an event with mentaI_Guidelines.pdf around 200 teams, each separate control is only visited by 30 teams and it is Rogaining is for everyone common when rogaining to see only a Rogaining provides a safe, well few other teams over the whole 24 hour controlled, and environmentally period. As such, the environmental sensitive way for the community, impact of rogainers is no greater than young and old, to enjoy and appreciate overnight bushwalkers. In fact, in many the bush. By its very nature, rogaining cases, probably less impact, since is well suited to the full range of rogainers return to the start/finish area participants' abilities and inclinations, to use the port-a-Ioos provided by the as it is the participants themselves who A team has successfully navigated to a organisers and to have their meals at the decide how far and how fast they wish control point. catering tent. to go. Generally, a large proportion of In addition, any perceivable impacts participants in any event regard it as a What is rogaining? are minimised by event organisers* leisure pursuit and not as a competitive Rogaining involves, teams of two to five preference of not reusing areas activity. frequendy, as over familiarity reduces people navigating on foot to control Rogaines include people with all navigational interest. It is often several points set throughout an area, usually of levels of fitness, with ages ranging from years before a particular area is reused native bushland. Traditionally, rogaines young children to over 60 years. Family for an event Furthermore, rogaine are 24 hours in duration, however, there teams, some with young children, organisers and participants consider are also shorter events of six and regularly participate and the categories minimising environmental impacts as 12 hours. Basically, rogaining is a type for awarding place getters include extremely important for ensuring of bushwalking. It has minimal juniors, families, women, veterans continued access and permission from environmental impact and travel is (over 45), and super veterans (over 50). land managers to use an area. As such, entirely on foot, where the only For more information see the ACT events are run in accordance with the equipment used is a map, compass, and Rogaining Association website: environmental guidelines set out by the small backpack containing warm http://act.rogaine.asn.au/ clothing, first-aid kit, water, and food. Emma Murray

Rogaining and the environment Appreciation of the natural environment is a central feature of the sport. Rogaining requires and develops A team planning their route before navigation skills. It starting. instils a sense of familiarity and affinity All photos from the 12-hour Spring with the natural Rogaine, held 12 November 2005 in environment and gives southern Namadgi National Park. HighFire project underway Three years after bushfires swept rest of Australia," he said, adding that determined was not going to gather any through the high country, the Bushfire this was the headwaters of the Murray dust because it was just too crucial to Cooperative Research Centre has begun and the Snowy rivers, and since fire the future that we leamt from what trials to get a better understanding of changes the water yield, we "have to occurred in 2003." the effect of wildfire on the worry about what the fire regime is if Professor Adams said the first of the environment. The study, known as the we are to properly manage the water. results will be available in three years, HighFire project, aims to provide a Immediately after fire we see an but the most significant and valuable scientific base to the land and fire increase in water and then followed by data will take 20 years to collate. management practices used by high a very long-term and sustained Graeme Wicks country landholders for more than reduction in water yield. That's been 150 years and collate data on the effects well known for some time but up here grazing and mosaic fire burning have in these landscapes we have very poor on bush and water. knowledge of how fire and water yield One of the scientists behind the interact." study, Professor Mark Adams of the "This really started when I chaired University of , said the inquiry into the 2003 bushfires and the project builds on valuable we did come to this region and have a information gathered by landholders, look at the Snowy Plains area and the bushfire volunteers and others. In impact on the Kosciuszko National addition to understanding how grazing Park adjacent to it," the Federal and mosaic fire burning affect the bush, Member for Eden-, Mr Gary the study will look at how these affect Nairn, said. water yield. "A lot of the time people think "Water yield from this high country reports sort of gather dust and this is is vitally important for the whole of the one inquiry personally that I was

River red gum national parks: your help is needed!

Nick Roberts from the Victorian If you have ever camped, fished, low value and easily replaced National Parks Association is walked or boated along the" Murray, through plantation-based timber. currently working on the Red Gum Goulburn or Ovens Rivers, you will Recent government reports show Icons Project. The VNPA has been know how special these places are. that 75 per cent of river red gum is actively campaigning for nature New national parks will create stressed, dead or dying. What is left conservation in Victoria since opportunities for joint-management must be protected now! Cattle grazing 1952 and now you have the with Indigenous communities as well as in wetlands and along rivers pollutes opportunity to become further improving the health of the River them, spreads weeds and reduces river involved in creating a more Murray and its ailing red gum forests. health and water quality. Tell VEAC sustainable future for us all. The key issues are: that grazing of cattle should be excluded from all river and wetlands in New River Murray national parks are a • River red gum areas need protecting River Red gum areas. step closer. The Victorian Environment from timber cutting to protect threatened species like the superb Assessment Council (VEAC) study into Submissions close on Monday, parrot, the squirrel glider and the the river red gum along the River 7December 2006. Murray and its major tributaries has carpet python to provide large old Neville Esau finally published its long awaited trees for habitat. discussion paper. The second round of • The Yorta Yorta and other public consultation has started, this is Indigenous Nations along the River your chance to have a say on the future Murray have many thousands of conservation and management of our years of heritage and connection to iconic river red gums. their traditional country. There is a You can write a few lines or a need for joint management of new couple of pages, but the more national parks, particularly Barmah- submissions received by VEAC calling Millewa, the largest river red gum for new red gum national parks, the forest in the world. greater chance of ensuring the survival • Over 95 per cent of red gum timber of numerous threatened species cut from these forests is firewood, dependant on river red gum. woodchips or garden sleepers, all The party: Pat Mielhke (leader), from a vast distance away. Barbara comes down men it's all over for all of Barbara Edgar, Chris Paterson, bandaged my ankle and foot, and we us." They radioed the chopper back in, and Max Lawrence (who took the had lots of fun getting my shoe back on and the incredibly noisy dusty photos). again. Chris harvested saplings, Max whirlwind of its downdraft returned. On a gorgeous sunny day, four of us went down the ridge and marked out a They dropped a sling, which went assembled for my walk into the spot in the creek bed with a bright under my arms and between my legs Northern Brindabellas, an area I've yellow rain cape for the helicopter crew and the medic clipped on alongside me. never walked in before. Max took us in to see, then the three of mem splinted It was wonderful being winched up into his 4WD and then we walked along the my leg with sticks and rolls of tape. I the heavens in the arms of a big, strong, Baldy Range fire mail to a rocky dragged myself down the rest of the handsome man. Doesn't happen often. outcrop with a magnificent view of the ridge on my backside, determined to get But I had to squint against the ferocious whole Brindabella National Park. There to an open area before I deteriorated downdraft and flying dust I saw the is a photo of me with a big grin and a even further. Barbara cleared the major skids and the bottom of the door frame map and two strong legs. Then we set branches and rocks out of my way, and above our heads and we started to spin, off down the ridge to Mountain Creek, surprisingly my leg didn't hurt all mat then the medic had a couple of grabs chatting happily about the upcoming much, but the shock symptoms were and managed to grasp hold of the door World Rogaining Champs and how I extreme, I felt dreadful. frame and the winch operator dragged was going to win the Womens The accident happened about me into the chopper and across the floor Supervets category. 11:30 am. At noon, Max and Barbara out of the way. I dragged myself across set off back up the ridge to the rocky to the far seat and the medic strapped top to arrange a rescue using Max's me in while the second medic was CDMA phone, and Chris sat with me winched up wim Chris and all the gear. and I asked her to tell me her life's The pilot was calmly holding the story to pass the time. As we chatted I chopper absolutely stationary in its slowly started to feel more normal. I precarious position with trees thrashing was quite confident they would at least just out of reach of the rotors. But I get a medic in to me before nightfall, think all four guys were glad when it and hopefully chopper me out, as to was time to say "Let's get out of here." stretcher me 3km down Mountain It was a glorious afternoon for the Creek to Doctors Flat Road would take seven-minute flight to Canberra a small army and many hours. Hospital. We flew up the ridge and Just before 2.00 pm we heard a passed close to Max and Barbara helicopter, and then saw it. It circled waving on their rocky hill top, flew high around the valley, then went off. over farmland, then Lake Burley The sound died. Oh, they can't get in Griffin came into sight and I got caught It was a very long way down here. Then we heard the chopper in a time warp and expected for some (400m), fairly steep and rough, and coming back, loud and low, and saw it reason to land at the old Canberra some of the late wattles were still in coming down the creek through the Hospital by the lake and was surprised bloom. Near the bottom of the ridge I trees, incredibly low. Hovering when we flew to Woden instead. At the turned suddenly to follow Max overhead, it seemed huge. The hospital I was not able to move my foot traversing across a steep loose slope. It downdraft whipped up a crazy storm at all in any direction, and an X-ray all happened in a flash — I was falling, and a dead shrub came down on top of showed three separate breaks in my I felt a wrench in my ankle, and I heard me and I struggled with its branches. ankle and leg bones. my voice shrieking. So fast. In The chopper filled the entire air space My heartfelt thanks go to Barbara retrospect, I think my left foot slipped above us and trees were whipping only and Chris for their wonderful help at away down the slope, throwing my metres from the rotor blades. A pause, the scene, to Max for arranging my weight suddenly on my dodgy right then two feet appeared, then a medic rescue (he probably enjoyed the knee, which gave way under me, and I slid down on a rope. Another pause, challenge), to the ambulance sat down with my right leg trapped two more feet appeared, and a second coordinators who organised the beneath me. medic slid down with a massive pack of chopper, and most of all to the crew of gear. The chopper moved away to give I pulled my leg free and there was a the Snowy Hydro Southcare helicopter us some breathing space. horrible lump at the front of the ankle who put their lives and their skills on and my foot just hung sideways from it. The medics decided I was in good the line to rescue me incredibly quickly. I knew I'd just lost my chance to be a enough condition not to spend time Thank you all. World Rogaine Champion. treating me, they would just get me to Pat Miethke Shock set in immediately. I could hospital. They explained the winching still think, and I knew what had to be procedure, and debated whether or not done with my leg and to rescue me, but they could take Chris out as well. The On behalf of all members, we wish Pat I was too giddy and nauseous to help guys were a bit edgy: "There's five tons a speedy recovery, (ed) and the others' voices seemed to come of metal above our heads and if it Batemans Marine Park Draft Zoning Plan on exhibition

In the March Bulletin we brought you information on the NSW Government's proposals for the Batemans Bay Marine Park Here is an update on progress towards the marine park from the NPA NSW JournaL

Time is running out for the NSW Government to make a difference for future generations, writes Paul Winn, NPA NSW Marine Sanctuaries Campaigner. The 85,000 hectare Batemans Marine Park was declared in April. This declaration did little in the way of conservation, other than vesting its management in the Marine Parks Authority, a triumvirate agency made up of the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC), Department f Primary Industries-Fisheries (DPI), and the Premier's Office. Sanctuary Zones should conserve • Habitat for the critically endangered A Draft Zoning Plan is now on the many natural marine wonders in the Grey Nurse Shark exhibition for public comment that will Batemans Marine Park for this and • The most northerly haul-out site in establish the regulations for the park future generations. Instead we fear that NSW for the vulnerable Australian and sets aside areas for protection from the chance for a major step forward in Fur Seal fishing and anchoring in Sanctuary marine conservation is slipping away. • One of the most important seabird Zones and areas for commercial fishing The park itself includes areas of breeding islands in NSW restrictions in Habitat Protection Zones. enormous conservation significance • The second largest Little Penguin The Draft Plan sets aside only 20 per such as the Murramarang coast; breeding site in Australia cent of the park as Sanctuary, a poor intermittently open coastal lakes such • Breeding area for the Sooty conservation outcome following in the as Durras, Coila, Brunderee, Tarourga Oystercatcher, the Wandering footsteps of the Draft Zoning Plan for and Brou; the Clyde River and Albatross and the Fleshy-Footed the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Batemans Bay; Tollgate Islands; Tuross Shearwater. Park. Lake; Wagonga Inlet and Wallaga The waters around the island also Lake; and the harbour a rich marine life with a very waters around high diversity of marine algae as well Montague Island. as sponges, coral, nudibranchs, Many of the gorgonians, ascidians, bryozoans and most important sea tulips brought south by warm areas for marine northern currents. conservation This government is suggesting the have been conservation of only a few dozen overlooked for hectares around the island. Since the protection due to extremely high marine biodiversity the noisy around the island includes plentiful clamour of fish, it is a popular fishing spot fishermen and Submissions on the draft zoning the myopia plan were due by mid-October 2006. developed by Important areas recommended in the most incumbent NPA [NSW1 zoning plan option, such governments as Montague Is., must be protected in before elections. sanctuaries. Add your voice and write One of the most to the NPWS asking for further important areas protected zones. overlooked for With thanks to Margaret Chidgey, protection is editor NPA NSW Journal Montague Island. The conservation significance of the area speaks for itself: NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM December 2006 — March 2007

Outings Guide Distance grading (per day) Terrain grading 1—uptolOkm • ?: A — Road, firetrtailtrack E — Rock scrambling 2 —10 km to 15 km B —Open forest F — Exploratory 3—15 km to 20 km C — Light scrub 4 — above 20 km D — Patches of thick scrub, regrowth Day walks: Cany lunch, drinks and protective clothing. Pack walks: Two or more days. Carry all food and camping requirements. CONTACT LEADER EARLY. Car camps: Facilities often limited. Vehicles taken to site can be used for camping. CONTACT LEADER EARLY. Other activities include nature rambles and environmental and field guide studies. Passenger transport. The committee suggests a donation, to the nearest dollar, of THIRTY SIX cents per kilometre. This is based on four occupants in the car including the driver. When odd numbers arise, the total contribution is divided by the number of cars. The amount may be varied at the discretion of the leader. Drive and walk distances quoted in the program are approximate distances for return journeys.

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

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

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

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

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — DECEMBER 2006 - MARCH 2007 8-10 December Car Camp weather1 check essential. Numbers Return to Snowy Plain limited. Return distance 420km;, cost Joint KHA/NPA activity per car $150 plus Park entry fee for Leader: Graham Scully Sunday, 10 December vehicles without entry permit. Contact: 6230 3352 or Orroral Valley [email protected] 20 January Sunday Day Walk This is a repeat of a successful from 11.30am Brindabella Ramble weekend of car camping, walking and Map: ACT 1:100 000 exploring shared by members of KHA Contact: NPA committee members Grading: 3 A and NPA in April 2004. Since then, This year we plan to hold our Leader: Steven Forst more historical research including site Christmas Party at the Orroral Valley Contact: 6251 6817(h) visits by stockman Henry Willis and Campground. 6219 5236(w) or CSIRO rabbit researchers has gathered All the usual features. Bring your [email protected] more information and the plan is to picnic lunch and Christmas cheer— Meet at the forest car park on share this new information with nibbles, Christmas cake and some Uriarra Rd near the Cotter Road at interested members. On Saturday, we drinks will be on hand. 8:30am. A walk in the mountain will visit sites of significance to the We will hold a short walk to see the forests along Old Mill Road and European uses of the Botheram Plain, Crrora] Homestead and the river. Wark's Road in the Brindabella range. the CSIRO rabbit research hut and Check Burning Issues for details. Visit the cooler south facing folds of study site on the . the Brindabella range including areas Sunday will include a walk to that escaped significant damage during the fires. Drive 85 km, $30 per Davey's hut featuring morning tea 17 December Sunday Day Walk car. hosted by Pauline Downing and others Teddy's Hut of the caretaker group followed by a Map: Chimneys Ridge 1:25 000 walk led by Phillip Crampton along Grading: 3 A/B 26-29 January Pack Walk part of the old track that led from Leader: Brian Slee Joint FBI / NPA activity Davey's hut to the Burrungubugee (or Contact: 6281 0719(h) or Yalwal to Quiera via Ettrema Back) River. [email protected] Maps: Yalwal &Touga 1:25 000 This track was revealed by the 2003 Depart 6.45am Wanniassa Shops, Grading: 1/2 C/D/E/F fires. The return walk will follow the Langdon Ave (cnr Rylah Cr, opp. Red Leader: Eric and Pat Pickering water race that leads to a "turkey" dam Rooster). Drive 5km south of Thredbo Contact: 6286 2128 or that fed the gold workings of Diggers to Dead Horse Gap. Follow Australian [email protected] creek. Alps Walking Track (Cascade Trail) An adventurous four days in Those wanting an easier walk can via Crackenback River and Bobs Morton National Park with the FBI. choose to search with Graham for Ridge to Cascade Creek. Lunch From the Yarramunmun fire trail Campbells hut site on a tributary of among snowgums at the much-loved between Nerriga and Sassafras, we Campbells creek. Please send your hut. Feral horse area. A couple of shall walk to Bundundah Creek (Jenny indicative interest soon with contact steep climbs in the 17km walk but Atkins selection) via Diggers Flat, details to Graham Scully. great views of Chimneys Ridge and Moriey Saddle and Atkinson spur for and chance to check Camp I. Second day, Twelve Apostles recovery after 2003 fires. Afternoon spur, Packhorse Pass, Dog Leg Cave, 9 December Saturday tea in Jindabyne. Drive: 420km, $150 Cinch Creek, to camp in Ettrema. Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group per car, plus Park entry fee for Third day will be along Ettrema Work and Christmas Party vehicles without a permit. Creek, probably to Transportation Contact: Syd Comfort 6286 2578, Spur, which will be our exit point on scomfort@netspeed .com .a u 14 January 2007 Sunday Walk day 4. C^pcrtunities for swimming. or Clive Hurlstone Southern Ramshead The walking Will be scrubby with rock 0407 783 422, Map: Perisher Valley 1:25 000 scrambles and some steep climbs. [email protected] Grading: 2 A/C 4WDs/AWDS required for Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, Leaden Brian Slee Yarramunmun fire traiL If possible, Tharwa at 9.15 am or Yankee Hat car Contact: 6281 0719 (h) or we would like to leave Canberra on park at 10.00am Work in the [email protected] Thursday evening so we can make an regeneration area in the morning. Depart Wanniassa Shops, early start on Friday. Transport TBA. Tools will be provided. Langdon Ave (cnr Rylah Cr, opp. Red Please contact leaders by 19 January. Stay on for a Rooster) 6.30am. Park at Charlotte Numbers limited. Christmas lunch, which Pass. Descend to and cross Snowy will be provided, to be River, climb Mt Clarke, contour south 31 January Wednesday Walk enjoyed in the shade of of Mt Northcote and climb Muellers Leader: David Large Peak (latter optional). After break, the regenerating trees (or at Frank and Contact: 6291 4830 or descend to Lake Albina for lunch. Jack's Hut). The afternoon will [email protected] Return via Northcote Pass and Club conclude with a leisurely check on the First Wednesday walk for the Lake Creek. Great views, wildflowers. progress of some of the recently year. A good opportunity to walk off planted areas. Several steep climbs. Afternoon tea the Christmas pudding. Those on the Jindabyne. Book with leader as list should look out for the Wednesday

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — DECEMBER 2006 - MARCH 2007 NPA ACT ENVIRONMENT MONITORING FORM

How can you help the NPA ACT monitor and prevent environmental problems and illegal activities in our national parks and nature reserves?

By carrying a copy of our 'Monitoring Form' with you when you venture out into the bush you are ready to record any environmental problems or illegal activities you might observe and to help monitor the general well-being of the park environment. The information you record on the form will help the NPA ACT preserve fragile ecosystems and Aboriginal and European cultural heritage sites and provide a safer environment for everyone to enjoy these last refuges for nature. You will also help the NPA ACTs Environment Sub-committee address some serious problems facing our national parks and nature reserves and provide a valuable reference for current and future campaign work.

Environmental problems and illegal activities include:

• Feral animals such as horses, pigs, dogs, rabbits, foxes, deer, goats and cats. These feral animals compete with or prey upon native animals, may damage native vegetation and habitats, cause soil erosion, or spread diseases and weeds. By recording sightings of, or damage caused by, feral animals, we can help the Parks Service focus eradication efforts within our national parks and nature reserves.

• Infestations of weeds displace native vegetation and animal communities. A weed is any introduced plant, whether exotic or native to another part of Australia, which is not local to the area eg. willows, wild pines, blackberry.

• Illegal access by motorised vehicles, bicycles or horses in areas restricted to self-reliant activities such as bushwalking and cross-country skiing.

• Other illegal activities such as shooting, trapping and smuggling of wildlife, removal of timber, plants and rocks (which provide habitat for native animals), dumping of rubbish, and lighting of fires during a Total Fire Ban.

After reporting the environmental problem or illegal activity to the authorities, could you please send or fax the completed Monitoring Form to the NPA ACT office at PO Box 1940 WODEN ACT 2606, fax (02) 6282 5813, e-mail [email protected].

WARNING: If you observe what you believe to be an illegal activity, you should not approach or challenge those observed, but keep a reasonable distance away, or act in an uninterested manner if close eg. passing on a 4WD track. If you have a mobile phone with you contact the parks service and police immediately. A quick call could allow rangers or the police to 'meet' the offenders on the way out. Otherwise, contact the parks service and police as soon as you return home. The authorities are always keen to get information on illegal activities as soon as possible as it greatly increases the chance of apprehending offenders and getting a conviction.

PARKS, CONSERVATION AND LANDS (etc) Canberra Nature Park: Northside 6207 21 13; Southside 6207 2087 Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve: 6205 1233 Namadgi NP: Tharwa 6207 2900; Bendora 6247 8153; Corin 6247 8146 Kosciusko NP: Jindabyne 02 6450 5600; Perisher Valley 02 6457 5214; 02 6947 7025; Khancoban 02 6076 9373; Yarrangobilly 02 6454 9597 Brindabella National Park: 6298 0356 ACT Forests: 6207 2498

POLICE PHONE NUMBERS: Canberra area: 11 444 Monaro area including Adaminaby, Cabramurra, Jindabyne, Perisher and Thredbo: 02 6452 0099 Khancoban: 02 6076 9433 Talbingo: 02 6949 5244 Tumut: 02 6947 7199 NPA ACT ENVIRONMENT MONITORING FORM

For recording environmental problems and illegal activities

Your name and contact information.

Brief description of environmental problem or illegal activity observed. For illegal vehicular access include registration number (if possible), colour, type and make of vehicle(s).

Area name where you observed problem or activity. | (eg. Sams Creek Fire Trail in I Namadgi NP. Include grid reference.)

Date and time of observation.

| Did you contact the Parks Service or police?

Who did you speak with?

| What was their response?

Do you have any documentary evidence eg photos?

Can you provide us with copies?

Further comments (attach additional pages if necessary).

For NPA ACT office use only

Date received and action taken: walks email else check the NPA to the Marble Arch a limestone feature 24—25 February, Saturday and website closer to the date. at the entrance to a narrow limestone Sunday Work Party gorge. Drive 180 km, $64 per car. Cotter Valley 4 February Sunday Walk Leader: Martin Chalk - Wildflower 17-28 February Car Camp Contact: 6292 3502 ramble from Charlotte Pass Place: Victorian Alps This work party will be a Map: Perisher Valley 1:25 000 Leaders: Adrienne Nicholson reconnaissance for wilding pines in Grading 2 A/C/E and Di Thompson the vicinity of the old arboretum in the Leader: Steve Hill Contact: Adrienne 6281 6381 Cotter Valley. The area is about 3km Contact: 6231 9186 or Dianne 6288 6084 square and is within the tree line, [email protected] Two base camps are proposed. about 1km north of the Cotter House. If we get any rain ... this is a chance One on the Wellington River outside Most of the pines are expected to be for those who missed out last year to Licola, and the other in the vicinity of large, so removal will be left until a see some magnificent wildflower Holmes Plain (on the road to Mt later date. The work party will extend sights. We drive to Charlotte Pass Howitt). There will be a range of over two days, with camping in the ] carpark (2 A hours) and will wander walks from very easy to hard. This is grounds of the Cotter House. For around the moraines surrounding the heart of the Victorian gorges and those who cannot stay overnight, Hedley Tarn, and the Blue Lake, pop high plains country to the west of return transport will be available on up to for some views Lake Tali Kamg. The trip is suitable Saturday night—no Sunday-only as well as more wildflowers, and then for 2WD vehicles, but there are a lot option is available. If you have a GPS, down to Club Lake to return along of dirt roads. Advice from Parks please bring it along. Please confirm Club Lake creek to the cars. There are Victoria is that only one camp site will with the leader by 20 February. Meet over 30 species of wildflower unique squeeze in a caravan, so it's tents for at the Namadgi Visitors' Centre at to me Snowy Mountains and many the rest of us. Participants will need to 9:00am. Drive: 86km, $30 per car. can be found in bloom around this make their own assessment of the road area. The walk will require fitness, conditions Once there, it's mostly will be largely off track and will walking, socialising, swimming and 28 February Wednesday Walk involve regular climbs. It brings with binding with a number of car shuffles. Leader: Mike Smith it an early start and late return to Contact: 6286 2984 or Limit of 10 vehicles due to Canberra, but the sights are supremely limited camping space. Contact [email protected] rewarding. Contact Steve Hill by leaders early to book. Details to be advised by the Friday evening to register and for midweek walks email or contact the details of the meeting place. This will leader. 18 February Sunday Walk proceed only if the weather is likely to Snowy Mountains—Two be clear. Drive 400 kms: $140 per car Ramsheads 4 March, Sunday Work Party Map: Mt Kosciuszko 1:50 000 Naas Creek area Grading: 3 A/C/E Leader: Martin Chalk 10 February Saturday work party Leader: Steve Hill Contact: 6292 3502 Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group Contact: 623 19186 or This work party will be a continuation Contact: Syd Comfort 6286 2578, [email protected] of the 18 November work party, and is [email protected] A day of fabulous views. This a part of the NNP task to rid the Naas or Clive Hurlstone will proceed only if the weather is Creek of woody weeds. The area of 0407 783 422, likely to be good. We drive to operation will be down stream of the [email protected] Thredbo (2Vi hours) and catch the Mt Clear campground and will Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, chair to the top of Crackenback. We involve cutting and dabbing of briars Tharwa at 9:15am or Yankee Hat trek direct to Ramshead (2190m— and blackberry. If time permits, we carpark at 10:00am. Work for the fourth highest "peak") for superb will also move upstream from the rehabilitation of the old Boboyan pine views south of the Snowys. We stroll Boboyan Rd. in a reconnaissance of forest area. Tools will be provided. along the main range and climb North the creek banks. All tools and Ramshead for more delightful views. equipment will be provided, just bring The walk will require good fitness, an appetite for weed control. Meet at 11 February Sunday Walk will be off track and will involve some the Namadgi Visitors* Centre at The Big Hole and Marble Arch short steep climbs. It brings with it an 9:00am. Map: Kain 1:25 000 early start and a late return, but the Grading: 3 A Drive: 160km, $56 per car. sights and flowers are absolutely Leader: Steven Forst worth it. Ring Steve Hill by Friday Contact: 6251 68178 (h) evening to register and for details of 6219 5236 (w) or the meeting place. Drive 400 kms: [email protected] $140 per car. Meet at Canberra Railway station at 8:00am. After crossing the , a walk on track mainly through open forest to visit me large sink hole (over 110m deep) known as the Big Hole. Continue on 10-12 March Pack Walk Ian Currie favoured. Situated on 28 March Wednesday Walk Budawangs Wapengo Inlet and next to Mimosa Leader: Philip Gatenby Maps: Endrick and Co rang Rocks National Park it is a great area Contact: 6254 3094(h) or 1:25 000 for coastal scenery—walk, swim, fish, [email protected] Grade: 3A/D/E canoe, birdwatch, botanise, explore Details to be advised by the Leader: Philip Gatenby the rocky coast and hinterland, etc. midweek walks email list or contact Contact: 6254 3094(h) or Bush camping with no facilities; the leader. [email protected] participants need to bring water and A three day walk in the Budawangs firewood. 31 March Saturday Walk from either the or Nerriga Numbers will be limited, so contact Brandy Flat Hut entrance to Morton National Park. The leader early to book and for Map: Michelago 1:25 000 exact location of the walk will depend information and directions. Grading: 1 A on the water situation closer to the Contact: 6251 68178(h) time. The walk will be partly on tracks 17-19 March Canoe Trip and 6219 5236(w) or but will also involve rock scrambling Walk [email protected] and negotiating thick scrub. Contact Talbingo Reservoir A walk to celebrate Frank Clements leader no later than Wednesday 7 Maps: Ravine 1:25 000, eightieth year. Meeting at Kambah March. Drive about 250km. Yarrangobilly 1:25 000 or Village Shops at 9:00am. Drive 90 Yarrangobilly 1:100 000 km. $32 per car. 10 March Saturday work party Leader: Mike Bremers Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group Contact: 6292 3408(h), Contact: Syd Comfort 6286 2578, 6283 2052(w) or [email protected] [email protected] or Clive Hurlstone A repeat of the trip last March. See Preliminary notice 0407 783 422, article in the June 2006 NPA Bulletin. Paddle 4 km from O'Hare's Rest Area "Midweek" Pack Walk, probably May [email protected] (Sue City) to a lovely campsite Yerranderie and Meet at Namadgi Visitor Centre, (accessible only by water) by Maps: Yerranderie 1:25 000 and Tharwa at 9:15am or Yankee Hat car lunchtime on the Saturday, then an others park at 10:00am. Work for the optional afternoon paddle, walk and/or Grading: 3 C/D/E/F rehabilitation of the old Boboyan pine rest. On Sunday there will be an Leader Mike Smith forest area. Tools will be provided. optional walk up a nearby mountain Contact: 6286 2984 or (perhaps Pinbeyan depending on [email protected] 11 March Sunday Walk conditions). Expect a 600m steep Mike is planning a trip to the Border basalt and other climb and an 8km walk. Return to cars Yerranderie area, probably a week in geological and historical Monday morning. Suitable for May. He is looking for expressions of sites beginners, BYO canoe or hire (try interest Start from Government Map: Shannons Flat 1:25 000 Wetspot in Fyshwick). If interested Town camping area (explore derelict Grading: 2A/B/C/F contact leader by previous Sunday to silver mining area, climb Yerranderie Leader: Robert Abel organise transport and canoes. peak). Then 4 or 5 day pack walk Contact: 6254 3942 or Limit: 10. Return drive 500km. around the Kowmung River area. [email protected] Transport $180 per car. Route and final details will be Meet at Kambah Village shops at determined closer to the event. Access 8.00am. Walk starts at the gate beside to Yerranderie is from the Goulburn to Boboyan Road 100m north of the 24-25 March Weekend pack Oberon road by 2WD in dry weather ACT/NSW border. Proceed NW along walk but 4WD is recommended. the border via Wrights Hill to the Tantangara border basalt for lunch and discussion. Map: Denison, Tantangara In the afternoon continue NW along 1:25 000 the border divide to explore for more Grading: 2 B/C evidence of border markers, then Leader: David Large return to the cars via Grassy Creek fire Contact: 6291 4830 or trail and Westermans Hut Drive [email protected] approx 160km, $56 per car. Walk from Tantangara Road over the Blackfellow's and Blanket Hills 17-19 March long weekend Car ridge then drop down to camp on the Camp headwaters of Tantangara Creek. On Wapengo Sunday, climb Mt Tantangara before Map: Eden State Forests map following the Monaro Range back to Leader: Adrienne Nicholson the cars. Area burnt during Jan 2003 Contact: 6281 6381 fires, so walking should be through An outing to a well-loved camping open forest and alpine meadows. area on private land north of Tathra. Drive 300 kms. $108 per car. Long-terra members will remember this as one of the many places the late

NPA OUTINGS PROGRAM — DECEMBER 2006 - MARCH 2007 Biosurvey in Coleambally The NPA NSW are establishing superb parrot, diamond firetai], grey- western NSW will help restore strong community links through crowned babbler, large-footed myotis functioning landscapes by maintaining their work in community and the inland forest bat. Nine existing mature links to vegetated biodiversity surveys. This article threatened plant species and one remnants. The protection of vegetated from the NPA NSW Journal endangered ecological community have crown land is also vital for western describes a community survey also been recorded. NSW biodiversity. recently carried out in the Rick Webster, an ecologist from the NPA-West has also joined a group Murrumbidgee catchment, a local area, assisted with the field trip in of organisations exploring options for region where loss of biodiversity the afternoon. He demonstrated the protecting conservation values in has been particularly acute. range of trapping and measuring tools travelling stock routes and reserves. Perhaps there are lessons and that can be used during a baseline The Green Leasing concept is only in pointers for NPA ACT to take up biosurvey. its infancy but the expertise around the this challenge with the diminishing Landholders used the data sheets table will no doubt come up with some resources from the ACT provided in the NPA baseline biosurvey good directions. Government devoted to these manual to gain an understanding of the The project is being considered by aspects of our conservation methods of information collection. This the Grassy Box Woodland heritage in the ACT. type of hands-on activity is critical to Conservation Management Network, increasing community understanding of WWF Threatened Species Network, The NPA-West [NSW] project along the complexity of natural systems in the Rural Lands Protection Board, with Kate Shearer, Biosurveys Project Australian landscape. It also helps University of NSW Institute of Officer, ran a successful biosurvey make more informed decisions with Environmental Studies, Federal workshop in Coleambally on land management and encourages Biodiversity Facilitator and NPA-West Wednesday 24 May. The workshop was successful implementation of More information will be available as well attended by 45 landowners from biodiversity incentive schemes. the project rolls out the district and staff members of the Coleambally Irrigation Corporation. The presentation given by NPA- West explained what biodiversity is, what causes species to become threatened and the important role of environmental services in a healthy, functioning landscape. One of the key aims of NPA-West is to establish landscape linkages across all land tenures. These are important to provide connectivity for biodiversity protection. Organisms must be able to move in order to forage, migrate and disperse to locate new territory or other habitat resources. The Coleambally Irrigation Area is in the lower Murrumbidgee catchment and has been heavily cleared for irrigated rice production. AU remnant vegetation on private land is critical to form landscape linkages to nearby vegetated crown land and state forests. Rick Webster with some of the trapping and measuring tools that can be used The irrigation corporation has in a baseline biosurvey. Photo: Kate Shearer employed the Australian Museum to conduct a series of biodiversity surveys over a five-year period. These have Other activities NPA-West has also been successful identified some important habitat areas in receiving funding from The Dara The NPA-West project was for threatened species in the district and Foundation and The Wilderness Society introduced to the NSW Roadside a number of key recommendations for WildCountry Small Grants Program. Environment Committee at a meeting in their protection and enhancement The program aims to support in early May. Roadside The corporation is managing a community groups involved in vegetation, travelling stock routes and biodiversity incentives scheme funded landscape scale conservation projects in the "paper" road reserves across private through the Murrumbidgee Catchment southern Australia focused on property are all critical pieces of die Management Authority. understanding, protecting and restoring landscape linkage mosaic in western important ecological processes and The community is keen to undertake NSW. This was demonstrated using connections at the national, regional their own survey work so they gain a some of the Landsat mapping produced and local scale. better knowledge of the local by Carmel Flint for the NPA crown biodiversity issues. Six threatened land project. With thanks to Margaret Chidgey, fauna species have been recorded in the The protection of woodland editor, NPA NSW Journal area, including the southern bell frog, remnants on roadside reserves in

NPA BULLETIN—DECEMBER 2006 11 Camping and skiing in the 1940s - Part 2 would get us to the Cooma road where Siding in the 40s hopefully we would meet a car going to In the mid-30s a group of skiing Canberra. It took us all the rest of the enthusiasts formed the Canberra Alpine day to get off the mountain with only Club (CAC) using a clubhouse at water to sustain us. Mt Franklin as their base. After the War The next morning we had not gone they wished to resume activities and far when we got to a farmhouse and were concerned about lack of numbers. after debating whether to disturb the New skis were virtually impossible to inhabitants we knocked on the door to buy and even second-hand ones were be welcomed as the " lost boys". What very expensive. had happened was that David and My bushwalking friends were very Neville had waited in the car until it excited when we heard that the C.A.C. became dark and started raining, was conducting a ski-making returned to Canberra and reported to the workshop. We started off with billets of police that we were missing. mountain ash which had the advantage The next day the police and the Geof Hall's memories of his of resisting scouring but also were very local farmers formed a search-party outdoors activities in the heavy. First of all we shaped them and which had no success by nightfall. They Canberra region 60 years ago then steamed them and bent them at the had just regrouped the next day when continue. Geof arrived in nose and the middle so they were the they heard the news of our arrival. The Canberra in 1942, and while he right shape. We added steel edges to Canberra Times was there as they had pursued a distinguished public prevent the edges from rounding. Toe heard about our adventures, and I took service career he always got out plates made by a friendly blacksmith exception to the term "lost" as we into the bush with his friends as and heel straps rather like those found always had a fair idea of where we often as he could on modem cross-country skis were were and we made our own way out. added. The article in the paper the next day These skis served us well in our A one-day hike becomes a quotes me as saying that "at no time introduction to skiing at Mt Franklin were we lost". four-day ordeal after several work parties to restore the One trip sticks out in my mind both lodge to liveable condition. Later I used because it illustrates the dangers of The assault on Bimberi the ski making skill to use fence palings being over-ambitious and the need to One Easter we used cars to get to the to make rudimentary skis and a sled for apply " bush savvy" when unexpected old Orroral Homestead. We hiked over my kids which introduced them to the dangers arise. Four of us — David, the pass which led to the old Cotter Hut joys of being in the snow. Neville, John and. I — aimed to climb and made this our base camp. Not all of Geof Hall Mt Tinderry without knowing much us were keen on spending the night in a about the terrain we would meet. dilapidated hut which could be Progress was slow as we had to inhabited by all sorts of creatures so we scramble over a lot of granite rocks. pitched tents outside. After lunch David and Neville said they One couple set their were too tired to go on to the summit tent up in a very and would go back to the car. John and picturesque spot under a I said we would go on as the summit magnificent large gum was in sight although there was quite a tree and reluctantly steep and rough climb to get there. moved to an open space At this stage the weather was fine when told it was but just as we got to the top a mist came dangerous. Sure enough up which subsequently turned into half way through the steady rain. There was no alternative night, which was cold but to go downhill and spend the night and frosty, there was a there. By this time it was dark and there big noise and a large was no question of retracing our steps branch had broken off over those boulders so we went down a the tree and landed just gentler slope until we got to a small where they had Photos provided by Geof Hall. creek. previously pitched their We had no food left over from tent! lunch and it was important that we had The next day we water to drink. Luckily, although a non- climbed up to Bimberi smoker, I always carried a box of and were rewarded by matches when bushwalking so we lit a the magnificent view and ffkfi fire to keep us warm and slept under a the satisfaction of being rough shelter made of branches. The on the highest point in next morning was bright and sunny but the ACT. We returned to as we were not sure whether following base camp and then the creek downstream would lead us to hiked back to the cars at a settlement we decided to go up to the Orroral Homestead. top of the ridge and see which way Retracing old steps constructed. Matthew history — again Namadgi had worked wryly observed that no her magic. significant fires had Our revelry interrupted by time, the been through the area in return journey was commenced. Square the intervening 102 Rock is a place not frequently visited years'. by any of the group, so a detour was in We gained access to the order. Afternoon tea allowed each to Smoker's Flat area via renew old associations with this the newly aligned commanding landscape. walking track — a first To finish the trip, I elected to return for two of us and only to the car via the old (pre-fire) walking the second time for the track. It seems that only I had used it other two. The re­ before — the day was indeed to end the aligned track certainly way it had begun. offers a less strenuous On my return home I looked up the way to climb the ridge Bulletin article that Alan had written from Smoker's Gap. about the 1953 journey to McKeahnie Once on the ridge, a Trig. Alan concluded with regret that he short diversion to me had not returned. I am happy to have Orroral Valley lookout helped him redress his regret also proved to be a first Martin Chalk for two of the group. Unbeknownst to us at the time, a trend in retracing infrequent Photo left. Mount McKeahnie Trig. revisits was developing. Below. Margaret, Alan and Neville on After another hour or so the way down. we were at the Photos Martin Chalk base of the final On Saturday 12 August 2006, four of us climb to the tors that mark the set off for a day's walk to McKeahnie domain of the McKeahnie Trig. Trig, not considering that it might be a Some puffing and blowing and day of revisiting past events. The day occasional stops to take in the proved to be interesting, solely based vista (and to catch breath) on the inspection of three and a half brought the cairn into view. years of forest re-growth, as this area Over lunch and a discussion seems to have been burned as badly as about the site and its history we any other. But Margaret Power, Neville pondered the task of getting to Esau, Alan Ray and I were in for more the top of the tor upon which than blackened, fallen logs, rocky the cairn is perched, let alone ground and prolific shrubby growth. building it. At this point Alan The only other time I had visited remarked that he had a photo of McKeahnie Trig was in October 1998, "two blokes" astride the cairn. after Matthew Higgins had written an He went on to reveal that he article about it in this publication. was last at the trig 53 years Matthew's research had shown the trig earlier as a member of the 1st was constructed in 1896 as a part of the Canberra Rover Crew. With my NSW Government's wish to map the last visit being eight years colony. He also observed, from the earlier and Margaret and remnant signs of construction, that Neville never having visited the ladders had been made on site and used place before, it left me wim a to access the top of the massive boulder sense of occasion. Boulders, upon which the cairn has been recovering trees and palpable

NPA ACT CMstmas Party Sunday 10 DacgmQtr Orroral Campground. Come along and join the festivities to celebrate another busy and productive NPA year.

gudgmGy B*sAI*e Ctrl st mas party See GBRG news, page 18 See outings program for details The Great Dividing Trail Creswick and timber tramlines. Sailors Falls should Blackwood, and is be a highlight but this valley has been close to Hepburn overrun by broom and blackberry. Springs. While there From Mollongghip almost to are no huts, toilets or Creswick there is regrettably a long tanks as provided on unavoidable road bash before forest and the Bibbulmun Track, a mined area are re-entered leading to there is an abundance Creswick. Beyond Creswick the track of prime (albeit dry) stays in lightly forested country until camp sites, and reaching the rather ordinary urban accommodation is outskirts of Ballarat leading ultimately available in any of the to the railway station. towns. Many points The Lederderg Track: This section of access by car between Daylesford and Bacchus means that the walk Marsh is a walker's delight as it may be undertaken in provides access via old fire trails, water View NWfrom Mt Blackwood, stages as day walks as races and dedicated foot tracks to Mt Macedon on the horizon well as in longer beautiful, rather wetter forest and views stages as a pack walk. into the deep Lerderderg Gorge. It While it cannot claim to have either the Victorian Rail services each of the three passes Bait Camp (altitude 855m) grandeur of the Australian Alpine trackhead cities. which was a camp for Baltic refugee Walking Trail or the length of the Four track brochures are available: immigrants after WW2. Steep climbs Bibbulmun or Heysen Trails, this 1. The Leganook Track: Bendigo to and descents are offered and Whiskey 250km Victorian walking track offers Castlemaine, 58km Creek lies at the bottom of one of these. access to a very pleasant, historically 2. The Dry Diggings Track: From Mt Blackwood (altitude significant and perhaps seldom visited Castlemaine to Daylesford, 55km 736m) there are huge views to the west area of the State. Its name is derived 3. The Federation Track: Daylesford to Mt Macedon, to the Lerderderg from the fact that it follows the low, to Ballarat,70km Gorge and to Melbourne in the distant south western ridgeline of the Great 4. The Lerderderg Track: Daylesford east and the track then starts a descent Dividing Range, and actually divides at to Bacchus Marsh, 80km. through forest to follow the western rim Daylesford. The leg of the Y is from The Leganook Track. From Bendigo of the Lerderderg Gorge for some Bendigo to Daylesford and the two arm as far as the Sandhurst Reservoir the 13km. Unfortunately little is seen of the branches are to Ballarat and Bacchus track passes through open sclerophyll old glacial gorge because of the trees Marsh respectively. forest It then follows the big Coliban lining the trail, but there are several Main Water Channel for 16 easy km to side tracks which offer opportunities to reach the steepish ascent to make the steep descent to the gorge Mt Harcourt The descent to the Calder floor. Highway passes through delightful Descending from the Lerderderg timbered country on a dedicated foot ridgeline, the track enters open country, track. After crossing the highway the and a final obligatory slog of about track again enters forested country to 9km, mostly on roads, at least offers lead to the centre of Castlemaine. very wide views and ends at the The Dry Diggings Tract. This is the Bacchus Marsh railway station. section in which most mining took This is certainly not a hard walk and place. It takes little imagination to the open sclerophyll forests, well appreciate the hardships and privations developed foot tracks and good signage suffered by the miners in this dry, hilly, spare walkers from the need to scrub Coliban Main Water Channel. forested and rather isolated region bash or mix it with dense, wet A considerable part of it passes which can be bitterly cold, windy or undergrowth or scramble over fallen through the area mined so heavily in the drizzly wet for weeks on end. It is here timber. huge gold rush of the mid 19th century, that feral vegetation has really taken Check the web at www.gdt.org.au and the evidence is everywhere in the over, but there is also a long section for further details. south of Hepburn Springs where the form of shafts, pits, sluiced areas, water Ted Fleming races, mullock heaps and the remains of foot track follows the lovely Sailors old stone buildings. Unfortunately the Creek all the way to Daylesford. Much miners introduced many exotic plants of the walk follows old water races. such as blackberry, gorse, hawthorn, The Federation Track: This ivy, briar and broom which have now section passes through country become rampant in some valleys and which was heavily accessed for little attempt at eradication is apparent timber in the nineteenth century and This is a walk through parts of the track utilise the predominantly sclerophyll forest and formation of the old train line to water tends to be scarce, but there are Creswick as well as some of the old some picnic sites at which it is available and the trail actually passes through Remains of miners' water wheel. towns such as Castlemaine, Daylesford, •Photos Ted Fleming 25-27 August 2006 Next morning cloud campsite, but this time stopped at gave way to a sunny Youmga Lookout for views over day. With day packs we Mounts Owen and Cole, Pigeon House followed the track and the Yadboro Valley. eastwards up Fog shrouded the Budawangs the Burrumbeet Brook. Near following morning. We left the the source of the brook, campsite at 8:20 and returned to the and about 15 minutes base of the Conglomerate Slope where from the tents the track a less used track branches north and climbs past Youmga follows Canowie Brook to the Corang Lookout (a five minute River. The track crosses the brook a detour to the south but number of times and becomes quite Mount Owen and Pigeon House best left until the sun is rough as it approaches the Corang Map reference: Corang 1:25 000 in the west). More climbing ended on a River. The area below the junction is ridge running towards the cliffs of known as the Rock Ribs. Reaching the Showers threatened as we (I was Bibbenluke Mountain. From the ridge Ribs had taken just over an hour and accompanied by Brian and Neville) set there were views of Mounts Hoddle, the fog had finally lifted. The Rock off from the Wog Wog entrance to Haughton and Tarn. Ribs include small waterfalls and deep Morton National Park. Bushes pools and negotiating a way through dampened by overnight rain were After about an hour of walking the required scrambling down a small rock overhanging the track where it crossed track passes to the north of Bibbenluke face. Downstream from the Ribs, the Wog Wog Creek and wet weather gear Mountain, on the side of a conical- scrub becomes more open and the had to be worn to avoid a drenching. shaped hill. Twenty minutes further on ground flatter. Another 50 minutes An hour from the car park we passed a we reached a well used campsite at the walking and we reached the junction of faint track indicated by a small cairn headwaters of the Corang River. Near Broula Creek and the Corang River, which leads to a lookout called the campsite a track heads to the east to where there is a small campsite. Tinderry View. Nearby a tree in the Monolith Valley and beyond while our shape of a Z fallen forward 90 degrees track turned northwards to, among The track continues downstream to was of interest. Ten minutes beyond the other places, Mt Tarn. Corang Lagoon but by a more direct lookout, the track crossed a swamp, re­ The climb towards Mt Tarn was on route man the river. We arrived at the entered forest and then divided. The left a ridge which marks the watershed lagoon at 1 lam for an early lunch and hand fork leads to Corang Lagoon. The between the Shoalhaven to the west and pondered the possibility of a swim. rain began in earnest as we took the die Clyde River to the east. There were Beyond the lagoon the track again right hand fork. also good views of the cliffs on the leaves the river in a south-westerly Forest soon gave way to the scrub southern side of Mt Tarn and to the east direction. Some four kilometres from associated with sandstone plateaux. Mt Donjon and Shrouded Gods. Trees the lagoon and after a number of creek Rain and wet bushes made for heavy obscure the view closer to the cliffs, crossings (most noticeably Goodsell going. Near Korra HilL which is about then at their base the track contours to Creek) we rejoined the Wog Wog two and a half hours from the car, we the east through moist forest where the Track. We again passed Tinderry View stopped briefly for lunch. Beyond predominant tree was a type of ash with but this time decided to explore the Korra Hill the main track continues to a smooth creamy trunk bearing "insect" lookout It's a round outcrop of the east of Corang Peak (which was not scribbles. After about a hundred metres conglomerate about 100 metres north of visible because we could only see about at the base of the cliffs we turned up a the track. The point of access onto the 50 metres ahead) and on to the gully which allowed access to rock is indicated by yellow markers and Conglomerate Slope. Other tracks go Mt Tarn's flat top. It was three hours involves scrambling. From the lookout over Corang Peak or provide an since we'd left the tents. there are views in most directions but alternative to the Conglomerate Slope The top of Mt Tarn covers over a I'm not convinced that we could see the for the descent to Canowie Brook. square kilometre and is swampy in Tinderry Range. By 3pm we'd again crossed Wog Wog Creek and reached We continued on the main track, places. Narrow ridges of stone nmning the car park. which was indistinct in places as it north to south cross the plateau. With approached the slope and care was the passage of time many of these rocks An enjoyable walk through needed particularly given the low have been carved into odd shapes, the spectacular country, despite the first visibility. At the bottom of the slope a most famous of which resembles a day's weather. The wildflowers, boardwalk crosses the swampy sides of giant anvil. From the eastern edge of especially wattle and banksia, were a Canowie Brook. The track then heads the plateau we could view the feature. splendour of Hollands Gorge, to Burrumbeet Brook by way of a low Philip Gatenby saddle to the south of the aptly named MtTalaterang further to the east and Profile Rock. By 2pm, cold and wet, the glistening sea. and soon after reaching the brook we We spent two found a suitable place to camp in a hours exploring the large overhang. It wasn't long before top of Mt Tarn we were joined by two other wet then retraced our walkers. steps to our

Right: Mystery plant: does anyone recognise this shrub? Far right: The magnificent Banksia spinulosa Photos Philip Gatenby 20-21 May 2006 boulders. The On reaching Middle Creek we most north­ stopped for lunch. From here walking erly seems to became easier as we made our way be capped downstream. In places faint tracks with a pile of could be followed and there were a stones yet number of clearings. Two of the party does not saw pigs in one of the clearings. By mid appear to be afternoon we'd crossed the creek from the highest Bogong Gap and were again in the This award Gudgenby Valley, At about 4pm we went to the arrived at our cars. second most Philip Gatenby northerly which in any event was easier to climb. Numerous surrounding Maps: Rendezvous Creek and Yaouk, peaks could be seen from the top, 1:25,000 (2ndedition) including Table Top and Jagungal in Above left: The summit. the distance to the south-west while Below: I. Mount Burbidge lights up the Mt Burbidge is an impressive peak in nearby was Mt Kelly and Mt Namadgi. skyline. Namadgi National Park—over 1700 Prominent to the west were Bimberi, 2. Climbing Mount Burbidge. metres, capped with large granite Murray and Morgan. The Gudgenby 3. Mount Burbidge from Rotten boulders and one of the highest Valley was clearly visible to the south­ Swamp. mountains completely within the ACT. east and below us was Rotten Swamp. Photos Max Lawrence Our walk started at the car park of the It appeared to have a number of Yankee Hat Track. Soon after crossing "cricket pitches". By the time Bogong Creek we left the track that we'd retraced our steps back to goes to the paintings and went in a the clearing and the tents the sun north-westerly direction, keeping had all but set. A cold night Middle Creek to our right. seemed assured. This part of the Gudgenby Valley is almost treeless and home to many As invariably happens, our kangaroos. We were making for the tents were so placed as to miss junction of Middle Creek and its main most of the morning sun as it southern tributary, also known as the cleared the surrounding hills. true right hand tributary of Middle There was still no sign of the Creek. The plan was to walk upstream forecast rain. We again walked to to Bogong Gap where this creek rises. Bogong Gap, this time with Just below the gap is a grassy clearing packs, then descended from where we could climb 130 metres to Rotten Swamp, Mt Burbidge in the afternoon without north of the gap. This strangely- packs. named swamp is the source of Licking Hole Creek and lies Shortly before the creek junction the between Mounts Kelly, Namadgi grass of Gudgenby Valley gradually and Burbidge. The "cricket gives way to forest. We passed a large pitches" we'd seen the day boulder, about the size of a two-storied before from the top of house, that was hidden in the trees. On Mt Burbidge turned out to be arriving at the creek junction it was strips of what looked like shade pleasing to find that the creek from cloth, which have been laid out Bogong Gap was flowing well. The on sphagnum moss damaged in first two kilometres of the walk up this the 2003 bushfire. The moss, creek was mostly flat and open forest. which was also burnt in the 1983 We then had a steep 300 metre climb to fire, is undergoing restoration. a knoll (map reference 731441). There is a good view of Mt Burbidge from the Leaving the swamp we knoll. Keeping within about 50 metres passed through a low saddle of the creek, it was a further two between Mounts Namadgi and kilometres to the clearing through Burbidge where another tributary gently rising and open regenerating of Middle Creek rises. We kept woodland. Beyond the clearing the to the left hand side of this creek climb without packs to Bogong Gap (a as we headed towards Middle rise of 90 metres) took about Creek. It was slow going in 15 minutes. Forty minutes later we places, particularly where alpine were at the top of Mt Burbidge. ash (E. delegatensis) regen­ eration since the 1983 fire had The mountain has a number of been burnt in the 2003 fire and summits formed by large granite subsequently fallen. PARKWATCH

Jenolan transferred to NPWS historic tree-lined southern entrance to make a decision based on considering a Castlemaine — despite objections from range of criteria. The majority of Jenolan Caves was residents and the Shire Council. While horseriding in nature reserves transferred to NPWS [NSW] According to local opponents, remains banned and a code of practice management on I July following VicRoads claimed the action was part must be followed by horseriders, it will NPA [NSW] supported changes to the of their Arrive Alive safety scheme, yet now be more difficult for park National Parks and Wildlife Act last residents had been informed that the managers to resist strong pressure from year. The area covered by Caves House death toll along that stretch of road was local horseriding groups to access and the show caves remains under the four in 18 years and that not all the nearby national parks, despite the well- management of an administrator and accidents were tree-related. known damage caused by horses. will be transferred to NPWS after the The Shire says that roadside Horseriding is expanding in parks plan of management is finalised. vegetation is vital to local townships, across the state. Earlier in the year, the Wombeyan, Borenore and Abercrombie and wim an estimated total area of new Kosciuszko National Park Plan of caves have also been transferred to 600 hectares it is the largest native Management formally sanctioned NPWS. vegetation asset for which the council is 13 new drive-in horseriding camps. The Government recently bought responsible. NPA is now seeking the introduction of out the 99-year lease for Caves House VicRoads may argue mat trees have a permit system to better regulate after the lessee went into receivership. to come down because they pose a horseriding in this park. Due to NPA lobbying, the new lease public safety issue. What it should be National Parks Journal cannot exceed 21 years and can only be doing is ensuring that our roads are safe November-December 2006 offered after the plan of management is enough to drive on in a way that finalised and specifies strict reduces the likelihood of these types of environmental performance standards. Funding shortfall threatens accidents. NPWS will gain a new specialist Karst Wollemi art Management Unit looking at karst If there are safety concerns, there Fieldwork in what's believed to be one management across all NPWS lands. should be tighter speed limits on these roads, or sections of them, and of the most significant rock art sites in National Parks Journal Government should resource the police Australia has stalled after the federal August-September 2006 properly to nab unruly drivers. government declined to fund further If there are concerns about liability research, archaeologists say. HIS protecting the bush from and compensation, let's legislate so that Over the weekend scientists bulldozers drivers cannot take legal action against exploring the Wollemi National Park government or road authorities if their northwest of Sydney announced the The NSW- Government is about to vehicle runs off die road and hits a tree. discovery of numerous shelters, many protect more threatened woodlands Roadside trees are often the biggest, with rock drawings and stencils up to thanks to HSI's increasingly successful oldest and best habitat trees left in 5000 years old. 'Million Acres' Campaign. Concerned Victoria, because they've been spared They also discovered what's for its dwindling extent, HSI nominated from land clearing on private land and believed to be the first hafted stone axe Inland Grey Box Woodlands for intensive timber cutting in state forests. found in southeastern Australia, protection as an endangered ecological These trees are often critical for estimated to be around 150 years old. community under the NSW Threatened threatened species such as the Squirrel But now the archaeologists are Species Conservation Act, 1995, and Gliders around Costerfield, Superb being forced to look for international the NSW Scientific Committee has Parrots around Nathalia and Grey- funding to continue their work and recommended it be listed. Once listed, crowned Babblers around Violet Town can't even afford a day trip to the it can no longer be cleared. Scientists — and the list goes on. remote area to protect vulnerable sites estimate that only 8 per cent of this from damage by bushfires, says team habitat remains in small remnants, Indigenous shrubs, herbs and co-leader Professor Paul Tacon of along the floodplains of the grasslands on road reserves must also Griffith University. Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers. This be protected. is just one of the many habitat types Park Watch, September 2006 The largest and most significant HSI has protected across Australia. site, an engraved platform a few kilometres from where the axe was Humane Society International Horse riders get a free run found, is at immediate risk, Tacon says. July 2006 A new recreational horseriding policy The platform features large eagle for NPWS has recently been approved and koala figures and images of what Road reserves — a potential by the [NSW] Environment Minister. are believed to be ancestral beings. for mass destruction The policy was initiated following "There is a lot of vegetation around representations by horseriding lobby the edge of the platform and fallen tree An area three times the size of groups several years ago in order to limbs which will provide fuel [for Grampians National Park or 10 times gain more access to national parks. bushfires],' he says. the size of the Prom is under threat of NPA [NSW] considers that the new 'If we get a really hot one in the being mown down and chopped to policy will facilitate more horseriding next few montiis there is a risk that pieces. This is the area that makes up in parks. Victoria's road reserves. some of the engravings we've The original policy prohibited discovered won't be there any more. A recent VCAT decision won by horseriding in sensitive environments News in Science, 16 October 2006 VicRoads may set a precedent for such as wetlands and rainforests. The abc. net. au/science/news/ removing all trees within a seven-metre new policy adopts a discretionary distance of roads in the Mount approach where regional managers Alexander Shire, starting with the Compiled by Len Haskew NPAACT news We are searching for a Services from Parks, volunteer to join the Bulletin Conservation, and Lands. eewings o Team to learn the ropes and to be able to produce the This year's NPA GAB grant $NPA A(mT Sympd September issue next year. I will enable some extra will be away most of July, activities this year. Included in August, and September next the grant will be: year so, if you are interested, • Reprinting walking let me know and I will be brochures for NAAS Valley, Cariny for Namadgi happy to go through the Horse Gully Hut; Square details. Now is the time to join Rock and Yankee Hat, (with [Science an&People the Team! (editor) a possible re-naming of Yankee Hat to an Discussions are continuing on appropriate Aboriginal the format for the Great name). Australian Bushwalk (GAB) • Developing and printing next year. Options being new brochures for Orroral considered are: Valley — "Ngunnawal to • Put on a full GAB in early NASA"; Nursery Swamp

'^•Oci;-j>;/ September in accordance and Booroomba Rocks; this with NSW GAB and will be a more expensive involve all ACT and time consuming bushwalking clubs with process. walks all over the ACT • If there is money still left • Run small GAB walks with over, developing signage at Canberra* the rest of Australia in early Yerrabi Track, Nursery 5-7 May 2006 September but have no Swamp (at the fen itself) involvement with other and Orroral. clubs and with walks restricted to virtually the We are developing a new Caring for Namadgi — Science and People normal NPA program. This segment of the Namadgi The proceedings of the NPA ACT's very option would be open to Visitor Centre display to successful Symposium, held earlier this year, are now participation in Parks Week focus on the NPA available. Contact any NPA Committee member for with other bushwalking involvement in the details. clubs establishment and history of the Namadgi. The Committee Copies will be for sale at our general meetings. • Combine Parks Week—mid is now considering material to Orders may be placed with our Honorary Secretary October 2007—with a GAB be included in the display in Sonja Lenz (ph: 02 6251 1291) or by leaving a later than the rest of conjunction with the Centre. If message on the office phone 02 6282 5813. Australia; the GAB would put on GAB-branded walks you have any comments or Cost (including GST): involving all ACT material which might be $22 for members of NPA ACT bushwalking clubs and included please contact the $27.50 for non-members walks all over the ACT. Committee members asap. plus $7.50 postage and handling. NPA will be considering The proceedings (A4 format, 191 pages, 55 in these options over the coming colour) include all presentations and speaker notes, an months in consultation with index and a photo gallery of the event. other clubs and Visitor Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group news

The past year has been a time of some group members! Blackberries many of these trees and provided added consolidation and assessment for the and briars have been mapped over a protection from grazing by placing wire GBRG. After the broadscale seeding in large extent of the area and we plan to guards around them. The Grove has August 2005 following the removal of attack these in the coming months. been extended and the trees have been the last pines, the group is investigating We have also spent time removing watered to encourage their survival. ways to address the long term problems old fencing materials as these can be a The annual general meeting was of returning native vegetation to a hazard for wildlife. Much of the wire held in September. The positions of degraded area. has been rolled up and can now be office bearers remain largely Two work parties were devoted to easily transported from the park. unchanged, although we welcomed two weed survey and removal of pine Some of the Eucalyptus stellulata new members to our committee. Clive wildings. At one work party a total of planted as a memorial to Eleanor Hurlstone remains President, Syd 146 wildings were found and removed. Stodart in an area now known as Comfort, Treasurer, and Hazel Rath, On another almost 90 were cut down. Eleanor Grove, did not survive their Secretary. Committee members are Pine removal is a favourite pastime for first year. The group has re-planted (Continued on page 19) Book review Mountain Landscapes and If you are looking for images of life — some can be left for the next Personal philosophies and Historic Huts grand vistas, you will not find them here. As the author explains, his work is rationalisation of mortality aside, there by Klaus Hueneke, published by more intimate and interpretive: "My are certainly worse regrets in life than Tabletop Press, 118 pages, hard photos are grabbed when and where I not having recovered from an infection bound, medium format, S39.95 can without a tripod and without heavy by the High Country bacterium. machinery''. Alas, this reviewer thinks The book can be ordered from This book is the ninth by Klaus that this casual statement sells the Tabletop Press (phone 02 6242 0995 or Hueneke on Australia's High Country. author's abilities considerably short. tabletoppress @bigpondcom.au) and In the introduction the author freely The book's authority rests not only can be purchased from most reputable admits that he has been held in bookshops. the tight hug of the high Many of the images are also country for the last 35 years. available in the 2007 calendars This passion (or is it an High Country and Huts, both infection?) is clearly portrayed available from Tabletop Press. in the book's pages to both the casual reader and those who Martin Chalk also have the "High Country bacterium" coursing through their veins. The author has combined his photographic and writing skills to weave a very personal There is a limited offer to tapestry that reflects the NPA ACT members to obtain heritage of landscape, people, copies of Mountain ecology and huts that is the Landscapes and Historic High Country. In a land that is Huts at a special price of $33 obsessed with things coastal at the November and and dominated by the idea of February member's the wide brown land, the High meetings. Alternatively Country needs eloquent copies can also be obtained ambassadors in this, its time by placing an order with the of greatest recent threat from NPA ACT office and climatic change. This work is forwarding payment of $33 the testament of one such plus $6 postage and ambassador. handling. The offer finishes The book is divided into on 28 February 2007. four sections that explore Namadgi and Kosciuszko National Parks, the Victorian with the considerable reputation of the Alps and Tasmania. Each section author, but is assisted by an commences with a brief description of endorsement by the the significance of the area and is Liaison Committee. followed by a series of captivating and The author concludes this latest evocative colour photographs that tell work with the thought that not all the their stories, either individually or as magical places encompassed by the brief essays, assisted by extended High Country need to be visited in this captions.

Gudgenby Bush Regeneration Group news Free to a good home (Continued from page 18) special lunch at Frank and Jacks Hut A quantity of old car camping gear This will be followed by a visit to the Two burner gas stove Martin Chalk, Frank Clements, Michael Yankee Hat block which was seeded in Gas lamp Goonrey, Sonja Lenz, Kevin McCue, August 2005. NPA members and Toaster Fiona McDonald-Brand and John friends are very welcome to join us on Waldron. Brett McNamara presented a that day to see what the group has Jaffle iron verbal report of activities relating to achieved Four person tent Assorted tent pegs Namadgi National Park. Of particular Martin Chalk interest to the group are the feral Folding table species program and their plans for Airbeds continuing reduction and removal Camp chairs. GBRG's Christmas party will be held on Saturday, December 9. We plan Maxine and Neville Esau to work in the morning and then have a [email protected] National Parks Association Calendar

General Meetings Dec Jan Feb Mar Mon 25 Mon 1 Public holidays Mon 19 Third Thursday of the month Tues 26 Fri 26 (not December and January) General meetings — — Thur 15 Thur15 8:00pm 1 Committee meetings Tues 5 Tues 6 Tues 6

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

Thursday 15 February 2007 Thursday 15th March Three days in the life of a volcano God save the Queen The association welcomes the Bill Lines Kevin McCue and Sonja Lenz following new members: Bill will look at how our British Kevin and Sonja visited Rabaul PNG in Kerri Bradford September and October last year. On heritage has influenced the kind of Rosalie Grant Friday 6 October they drove to a society we have built in Australia and, harbour volcano Tavurvur which last in turn, the kind of conservation Brenda and John Harper erupted in 1994 with devastating results movement we have. Leon and Kay Pietsch Since 1991 Bill has published six books for Rabaul. On Saturday 7* the volcano Doug Campbell burst into life again and just as quickly about people and nature in Australia. Jim and Ros Hanigan quietened down on Sunday 8 October. His sixth, Patriots: Defending A series of photographs captures this Australia's Natural Heritage, was David Patmore brief period of unrest published in 2006 and is a history of, We look forward to seeing you at and commentary on, Australian's association activities. conservation movement since 1946.

NPAACT Bulletin

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