Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/
No: 152 NEWSLETTER August, 2021
Walkers on Emu Park to Causeway walk, 2021
President Kevin Cullen 0487 655 892 Secretary Anna Mainey 0408 218 423 Treasurer Megan Grieve Management Committee Members: Rita Davidson, Dave Drew,Linsay Hensel, Greer Burgess, Mark Angus. Safety & Training Newsletter Greer Burgess
See last page for Schedule of Walks to JANUARY 2022 at a Glance
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PROGRAM DETAILS
Closing date for nominations for walks and social events is normally at least 5 days prior to the event. If you require transport please nominate well in advance. If travelling with someone else, it is courteous to pay your share of travel costs – suggested cost 10 c/km. Some walks may have a limit on numbers.
WALK LEGEND MO = Members Only
D/W Day Walk T/W Through Walk or Car Shuttle required O/N Overnighter H/W Half-day Walk 4WD Access by 4WD only X/T Extended Trip TRN Training B/C Base Camp N/F No Facilities – no water, showers or toilets SOC Social
WALK GRADING
Fitness Distance Terrain E Easy, suitable for beginners A Less than 5 km 1 Trail/Graded Track M Moderate, reasonable fitness B 5 to 10 km 2 Off-track/Cross-Country required H Hard, very fit walkers only C 10 to 15 km 3 Not pre-walked L 15 to 20 km 4 Minor scrub X Over 20 km 5 Medium or Heavy Vegetation Total Uphill Sections 6 Creeks/Rock Hopping ALT Approx change in height 7 Steep Scrambles
Date: 13th – 16th August Isla Gorge National Park Type: B/C, X/T, M, L,2,4,7, Alt 200m Contact: Pauline 0448 822 241 [email protected]
Description I’ve allowed four days, intending to drive there Friday afternoon, complete day walks on Saturday and Sunday, and maybe a half day Monday morning, then drive home Monday afternoon. It’s approximately three hours drive from Rockhampton. Enjoy sandstone caves and tunnels, wildflowers, aboriginal art. Nominations now closed.
Date: 22nd August Thozets Creek Type: H/D, M, B, 2, 6, Alt 400m Contact: Glynn 4927 5972
Description We will be walking up Thozet Creek which is for the most part open and shady with sections of rainforest. After leaving the creek we get up on to the ridge leading to Mt Birkbeck and then follow the track down to the saddle on Pilbeam Drive. Cars will be left at the start and beginning of the walk. Come along and enjoy.
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Date: 29th August Yeppoon to the Causeway and return Type: D/W, M/H, X, 1, 2, 4, 7 Alt 300m Contact: Rita 0437 189 [email protected]
Description This is a distance walk of approximately 22 kilometres in a circuit, taking five to six hours. We will start our walk from the carpark at Figtree Creek, proceed along the path near Taranganba shops, Lammermoor, around Statue Bay, then cross the mud flats to the Mulambin pathway near the north arm of the creek to the Causeway Lake. A morning tea stop at the Lake. Then back across the road to the Pinnacle Point section of the Capricorn Coast National Park, walk along Mulambin Beach through to Kemp Beach, Rosslyn Bay, Statue Bay, beach walk on Lammermoor to Wreck Point, Cooee Bay, Wave Point, over Ross Creek, back to the cars.
Date: 5th September Pack Horse Trail Bouldercombe to Upper Ulam Type: T/W, M, C, 1 Contact Anna 0408 218 423
Description Partly packhorse trail, partly National Trail, partly country roads. One steep ascent with views to Mount Etna, one steep descent from the escarpment, via a 4wd track to the valley below.
Date: 12th September Mount Cobbera Type: H/W, M, A, 1, 4 Alt 150m Contact Barbara and John 4808 2488
Description This will be a morning walk with good views of the volcanic plugs around Mt Hedlow from the top. Although the walk is short, it has steep sections, hence the moderate rating.
Date: 19th September Boots in the Berserkers: Forest View Lookout Type: H/W, T/W, E/M, B,1,2,4 Contact Cheryl 0477156656 [email protected]
Description We commence this walk from the beginning of The Zamia Trail atop Mt Archer/Nurim, leaving the track after a couple of kilometres to follow a ridge line which will take us out through the grass trees to what has been called Forest View Lookout. From there we’ll descend further rejoining the Zamia Trail along Moore’s Creek and head towards First Turkey and the end of our walk. Please note that off track walking is required at times.
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Date: 24th – 26th September Kroombit Tops National Park Type: B/C, T/W, MO, C, M, E, 1, 4 Contact Greer 0448 408 775
Description A short break weekend base camping at Griffith Creek camp site, arriving Friday afternoon before exploring the 13 km Escarpment Trail (M) and short Rainforest Walk (E) on Saturday. This will require a car shuffle to both visit the Rainforest Walk and return to base. On Sunday, it is planned to visit the Beautiful Betsy Bomber war grave/ memorial site (E). Numbers may be limited by the availability of seats in 4WD vehicles for Sunday. Please nominate by 5th September, members only, additional 4WD vehicles appreciated. Kroombit Tops NP is approximately 85 km southwest of Gladstone, allow 2.5 -3 hours drive time from Rockhampton. Pam is co-leading the walk.
Date: 30th September – 4th October Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail Type: XT, MO, closed
Description The Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail is a unique blend of seaways and picturesque walks across Whitsunday, South Molle and Hook islands. The tall ship Solway Lass will be our base as we sail and walk the Whitsundays. This trip is fully booked.
Date: 10th October Emu Park and Zilzie Type: H/W, E/M, B, 1,4, Alt 90 m Contact Rita 0437 189 245 [email protected]
Description A circuit walk from the Kerr Park Carpark (near Pine Beach Hotel). We walk along Keppel and Richard Street to the path heading south along Hartley St to Zilzie, through the Reserve at Seaspray and the old track to Cocoanut Point then back on the beach. Along Muskers Beach and on to Zilzie Beach over the headland to Shelleys and Main Beach and back to the carpark. Bring morning tea. There are places for lunch on Granville St and around the town centre, also bring your swimmers to cool down after the walk.
Date: 17th October South Rocky Wanderings Type: H/W, E, B, 1 Contact Cheryl 0477 156 656 [email protected] Description This “wander” will explore some of the lesser visited areas around the back blocks of old Rocky.We’ll commence from the boat ramp in Quay street and head south along the river before heading towards the Depot Hill/Port Curtis area whilst staying away from built up areas as much as possible.We’ll take in some historical features along the way.
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Date: 24th October Mining Heritage Trail Type: H/W, M, B, 1, 2 Contact Glynn 49275972 (Phone after 7pm)
Description We will be walking in the area east of the heritage trail at the top of Dee Street Bouldercombe. The area has a rich mining history and we will be checking out some of the sites associated with these activities. This is a half day walk with good views down into Bouldercombe Gorge along the way. Best time to contact Glyn is after 7 pm
Date: 31st October Peltophorum Street to the Saddle Type: H/W, T/W, M Contact: Kathy 0400 292 248
Description Further details will be available after a pre walk, however views, off track walking and a bit of a climb are certain!
Date: 7th November Mt Morgan Museums and Meanderings Type: E/Soc, A, 1 Contact Greer 0448 408 775
Description A Sunday morning wander from the heritage listed Mt Morgan Railway Museum through town, exploring the history of the area. We will stop into the Number 7 Art Gallery, view the Mafeking Bell and the town’s connection to the siege of Mafeking, before spending some time in the community owned and run Mt Morgan Historical Museum. Museum charges apply. We then return to the Railway Museum via the Swinging Bridge. . There are ample places for lunch/breaks/ interesting shops afterward, as well.
Date: 14th November General Meeting Type: Meeting Contact
Description Come along to the general meeting to assist in the running of the club, and also to have your say on the upcoming walks calendar.
Date: 21st November Frenchmans Creek Paths and Parks Type: H/W, E, B, 1 Contact: Pauline 0448 822 241
Description This is a very civilised walk. Start at the bottom of Pilbeam Drive to walk along the pathway along Frenchville Road, then all the way along nicely maintained parks to Kalka Shades. Suitable for beginners and the hot weather at this time of year.
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Date: 28th November Christmas Breakup Type: Soc Contact Cheryl 0477 156 656 [email protected]
Description Given the uncertainty surrounding Covid 19 at this time, the suggestion has been made to repeat last year’s outing to Kershaw Gardens for our Christmas Breakup.Further details will be forthcoming closer to the time but do put the date into your diary.
Date: 25th – 28th January Great Keppel Island/Woppaburra Type: Soc, XT Contact Cheryl 0477 156 656 [email protected]
Description Australia Day 2022 falls on a Wednesday so the above dates have been chosen for our visit to GKI. The club has been able to book Keppel Lodge again but in keeping with COVID 19 protocols, numbers will be restricted. You can avoid disappointment by nominating early. Payment of a deposit will confirm your booking. Once again, the program for the visit will be tailored to peoples’ wishes - walks where requested, snorkelling, swimming or simply relaxing for the duration.
A reminder for walk leaders – please send details of your proposed walks to [email protected] within a fortnight of the meeting to allow smooth production of the newsletter. An email will suffice, including details as per walk legend and a brief description. Thank you
Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/ Page 7 of 18
BUSHWALKERS PRESIDENT’S REPORT – 2021
Thank you to all our usual office bearers. Once again, they have been wonderful.
Thank you as well to John Rideout for keeping up our technical things – our website, our changing COVID policies, our PLBs. He gets a special mention because what he does is not even an official position.
The Facebook page contributors are also working in a non-official capacity. Our Facebook page has resulted in many new members. It’s probably the one that draws in most of our new members.
I also want to thank walk leaders and say how much I cherish those who organise extended walks. Not only do they do the research to work out where to walk and how to achieve it, but also accommodation, transport, and all the related money matters. They usually pay up front and assume they’ll get their money back. If you’ve been on some of these wonderful trips, consider organising one.
I am pleased to see that some of the newer and younger members are starting to lead trips and accept nominations on the executive and management committee. I hope more will follow. Those who have done so, obviously have asked themselves, not only, “What can the club do for me?” but also, “What can I do for the club?” This club works only if its members contribute. So, I ask every member to think about how they can contribute, not forever, and not alone, but at least, do your turn.
I have now done 10 years on the executive; 3 years treasurer, 4 years secretary, 3 years president. I regard 10 years as a milestone, so I do not seek re-election. I thank all who have supported me for that time – Pauline Toop
An extra note from Pauline
I would like to say a special thank-you to Anna and Megan. Some time ago, the club brought in a limit of three years as the length of time an executive member can hold the same position as this should be shared around. Anna and Megan have both done their three years. The management committee passed a by-law allowing them to continue, which they have done for the sake of the club. We will need a new secretary and treasurer for next year.Please consider.
Once again, thank you, Anna and Megan.”
Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/ Page 8 of 18
Walk Reports
CONONDALE RANGE GREAT WALK By Pauline Toop
Twelve members of Capricornia Bushwalkers went off on this 4-day walk, 15 – 20 April 2021.
This beautiful walk was perfectly organised by Cheryl right down to the details of the last car seat. Four-wheel drives are preferable for the creek crossings to get to the walk. Thank you, Tony and Dave. Ian Ellis helped out with car shuffles. Thank you, Ian. Before starting – a day’s drive down, accommodation before and after at Kenilworth pub – a “basic” pub with lots of atmosphere, nice meals, and perfect for our needs. Lovely little spot, Kenilworth. When finished, a day’s drive back to Rocky. The walk was mainly through rainforest with some parts open eucalypt forest. The track was generally well maintained by National Parks although in some places trees fell upon the track, resulting in frustrated and comical efforts to make progress around the blocked sections.
Through that beautiful rainforest, I myself didn’t see much of the canopy. Afraid I’d lose my balance, or slip or trip on tree roots or slippery clay if I looked up at all. At eye level, I saw the rainforest racing past beside me. For much of the walk, as I was a slower walker, I could only look at the forest floor to see where I was stepping. It was a beautiful forest floor covered in golden brown leaves fallen from the canopy – and seeds and seedpods, wattle, eucalypt, soap tree, lilly-pilly fruit, quandong, bits of bunya nut to name but a few. There was a rich array of fungi, ferns, moss and lichen covered logs, and huge buttresses on strangler figs, and a little higher up, elkhorns and bird’s nest ferns.
There was a rich array of wildlife. The forest was rarely silent. Birdsong rang out day after day. We heard the crystal clear tink-tink of bellbirds (Bell Miners), the whoop and crack of whipbirds, and the haunting cry of catbirds, as well as plentiful little chittering birds. We saw some goannas and other lizards, snakes, and frogs, butterflies and dragonflies, but the most prolific were the leeches – hundreds of them. At times, we dare not stand still, we dare not sit down, they were so numerous. Though we didn’t hold competitions, we were interested in who had the most leech bites, the biggest. We researched leeches on Google, such was our interest. The mosquitoes buzzed around but, strangely, rarely bit. There were a few ticks – not many.
Some curiosities: There were relics of the timber industry, some machinery left from long ago. In contrast, there was some modern art work, in the middle of nowhere – a very large rock cairn with a strangler fig planted on top of it.
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There were swimming holes to be swum in and these were enjoyed by the faster walkers and those who didn’t mind the cold. It rained a bit (being a rainforest) so we got a little wet but not much. Some of us got a little sore, but again not much. The group was very fit, very organised, and very considerate and helpful to each other – a lovely group.
As I write this just home from the walk, in one month many of those on the trip will be off to Larapinta. They’re already fast and fit walkers. By the time they’ve done the Larapinta, they’ll be able to leap tall buildings with a single bound.
Conondale Range Great Walk is indeed a great walk, all made possible for us by someone researching and organising not only the walk itself, but also the accommodation, transport, camp site bookings, and financial matters. Thank you, Cheryl.
Photo courtesy Department of Environment and Science https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/great-walks-conondale-range
Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/ Page 10 of 18
Notes from Facebook
Mount Birkbeck to Bloxsom Street, April 2021
The lush, green and at times, thick vegetation found along our path from Mt Birkbeck to Bloxsom St today is the result of recent rains. The long grass hid many a rock but at the same time, provided for the odd soft landing. Thanks to Pauline for another great outing. - Cheryl
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Emu Park to the the Causeway with Rita, Anzac Day 2021
Looking toward Pinnacle Point and Mulambin Beach
Smoko
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Combined Club Campout 2021
Chapple Creek with Glyn
(Yes, these are two separate photos that lined up almost perfectly! No, Glyn doesn’t have a surprise twin!)
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Mount Etna and Caves Mount Larcom with Kev
Mount Morgan with Greer Canoona withPauline
There are some wonderful Relive videos on the Facebook page, and some fantastic YouTube clips of the fabulous Larapinta Trail, along with many more photos. To share your photos to the Club’s page, send via Messenger to the club’s account. Ideally, photos include both people and landscape, with appropriate social distancing.
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ITEMS OF NOTE
The Club now has TWO PLBs (Personal Locator Beacons) for emergency use on any bushwalk. One will be located in Rockhampton and the other at the Capricorn Coast. Walk leaders may arrange for collection of the PLB from: Pauline Toop (0448 822 241) Rockhampton
Cheryl Gargan (0477 156 Capricorn Coast 656)
Collectors of PLBs - please complete the form when collecting the PLB from Pauline or Cheryl. "Don't leave home without it!"
FOR ALL WALK LEADERS
If there is no mobile phone reception or even if you are uncertain if there is mobile reception throughout your walk, take a PLB.
Being a paid-up member of the club provides you with Public Liability and Personal Accident Insurance covers. The limit of Public Liability is $20,000,000. Personal Accident Insurance only covers members aged 18 to 95 years old, inclusive.
The address of the Club's website is http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/
Please contact the Secretary at [email protected] if you –
have changed any of your contact details want to submit a Leader's Report
For Walk Leaders, the Walk Description Form for each Newsletter is also available at http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/
Please keep sending in Walk Reports for the next Newsletter to [email protected] either as an attachment, using Microsoft Word, or in an email, whichever is the easier for you. It would be great to get your story fairly promptly after your walk.
Our website - http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/ has material for beginners and Walk Leaders, previous Newsletters and other useful bushwalking information.
Please remember the Club is subsidising half the cost of an Accredited First Aid Course this financial year. The Management Committee will need to see the Certificate of Achievement and Receipt for the Course.
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Capricornia Bushwalkers Inc. – Membership Application / Renewal I wish to apply for / renew my membership (new memberships will be Renewal New (Tick one box) provisional, until approved at next general meeting) Type of membership Single Family (2 Adults + children) Life member Membership fee (for calendar year or part $25 single $40 family thereof) Personal Information Given Name(s) By law, the club is required to maintain a register of members and Family Name: their residential addresses. The information collected here is retained by the club secretary for the Residential Address (not PO Box) purposes of club business. The postal or email address you provide here will be used to send your Mailing Address (if different) newsletter, and any other Phone: club correspondence. The Home: phone numbers will be Work: used in emergencies. Email:
Family membership: Please list alongside the names of all other people to be covered by this membership:
Insurance: The Club has Public Liability (up to $20,000,000) and Personal Accident Insurance covers; further details are available from the Club secretary. The cost of insurance is included in the membership fee.
Acknowledgement of Risks and Obligations
I acknowledge that when I am participating in any activity of the Capricornia Bushwalkers Inc. I am doing so as a volunteer in all aspects and as such I accept all responsibility for loss of property or bodily injury to me, however it may occur. I acknowledge that my participation in this activity may expose me to hazards and risks that could lead to injury, illness or death or to loss of or damage to my property. In particular when participating in abseiling or above the snowline activities I am aware that I may be exposed to additional hazards and risks. I will make all reasonable effort to avoid or minimise these risks by; only participating in activities within my capabilities, carrying food, water and equipment appropriate for the activity, and advising the leader if I am taking any medication or have any physical or other limitation that might affect my participation in the activity. I acknowledge that the payment of my membership fee will be deemed as full acceptance and understanding of the above. I further agree to observe the Club's Rules and By-laws (copies available on the Club's website). Signature(s): Date: ...... Single OR 1st Adult Family member 2nd Adult Family member ...... /...... /......
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How to return your membership form
Option 1: Please post your completed membership form to Treasurer, Capricornia Bushwalkers Inc., PO Box 1130, Rockhampton, Qld 4700.
Option 2: Signed membership forms may be scanned and emailed to [email protected] Please note handwritten signatures are required at this time
Payment Options
Option 1: To pay by direct deposit: BSB 064-710 [C’wealth], Account No 00917137, please include your family name as reference
Option 2: Post a cheque or money order with your membership form to Treasurer, Capricornia Bushwalkers Inc., PO Box 1130, Rockhampton, Qld 4700
View from the Three Hills Walk, Roslyn Bay
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SCHEDULE TO January 2022 AT A GLANCE (MO = Members Only) Days Dates Activity MO Contacts Phone Type
August Fri – Mon 13th -16th Isla Gorge National Park yes Pauline 0448 822 241 B/C, X/T, [email protected] M, L,2,4,7, Alt 200m Sun 22nd Thozets Creek Glyn 4927 5972 H/D, M, B, 2, 6, Alt 400m Sun 29th Yeppoon to the Causeway and return Rita 0437 189 245 D/W, M/H, X, 1, 2, 4, 7 Alt 300m September Sun 5th Pack Horse Trail – Bouldercombe Anna 0408 218 423 T/W, M, C, 1 Sun 12th Mount Cobbera John & 4808 2488 H/W, M, Barbara A, 1, 4 Alt 150m Sun 19th Boots in the Berserkers – Forest View Lookout Cheryl 0477 156 656 H/W, [email protected] T/W, E/M, B,1,2,4 Fri – Sun 24th -26th Kroombit Tops National Park Yes Greer 0448 408 775 B/C, T/W, MO, C, M, E, 1, 4 October Fri - Tue 1st – 5th Whitsunday Ngaro Sea Trail Yes Fully booked Sun 10th Emu Park and Zilzie Rita 0437 189 245 H/W, [email protected] E/M, B, 1,4, Alt 90 m Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/ Page 18 of 18
Sun 17th South Rocky Wanderings Cheryl 0477 156 656 H/W, E, [email protected] B, 1
Sun 24th Mining Heritage Trail – Bouldercombe Glyn 49275 972 after 7 pm H/W, M, B, 1, 2 Sun 31st Peltophorum Street to the Saddle Kathy 0400 292 248 H/W, T/W, M November Sun 7th Mt Morgan Museums and Meanderings Greer 0448 408 775 Soc/E, A, 1 Sun 14th General Meeting - Daniel Park, Cooee Bay Meeting Sun 21st Frenchmans Creek Paths and Parks Pauline 0448 822 241 H/W, E, [email protected] B, 1
Sun 28th Christmas Breakup, Kershaw Gardens Cheryl 0477 156 656 Soc [email protected] December Christmas Break, no walks scheduled January Tue – Fri 25th – 28th Great Keppel Island/Woppaburra Australia Day Cheryl 0477 156 656 XT, Soc [email protected]
Club's website: http://capricornia.bwq.org.au/