November General Meeting

CA NBERRA BUSH WALKING CLUB INCNEWSLETTER

GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601

VOLUME 33 NOVEMBER 1997 NUMBER 11 NOVEMBER GENERAL MEETING

Speaker: Allan Mikkelsen, on his wanderings in Burma, the Himalayas, and the Andes in 1995 and 1996

8pm Wednesday 19 November Dickson Library Community Room (entrance at rear of library)

Make the most of the evening and join other members at 6.00pm for a convivial (BYO) meal at the Pho Phu Quoc Restaurant in Cape Street, Dickson. Try to be early to ensure there will be ample time to finish and still get to the meeting in comfortable time

Walks to Allan Mikkelsen Ph: 6278 3164 World Wide Web: http:l/www.pcug.org.auI-amikkelS/Cbchome.html 80 Century Courts, 4 Beetaloo St, Hawker ACT 2614

Articles etc. for publication to Paul Edstein Ph: 6271 4514(w) 6288 1398(h) Fax: 6271 4613 (w) E-mail: cozzia3©aec.gov.au 19 Gamor St, Waramanga ACT 2611

PRESIDENT'S PRATTLE

Apologies for the omission of the insert in last September and October issues of It. If anyone wanted month's It of a proforma letter concerning the to write a letter of their own then Doug had supplied proposed developments for the Perisher Radge and ample "ammunition" for a submission. The skifields in the Kosciuszko National Park (Snowy Committee sent a letter on behalf of the Club, which Mountains). This was due to a chain of events that is summarised at the end of this article. led to the letter not being produced in time for the The Committee has also sent a submission October It collation. Copies were made available at responding to the Draft Public Access Strategy the October General Meeting. Discussion Paper for NSW National Parks, issued by Considering this "hiccup" I am extremely the NSW NPWS. Unfortunately we didn't receive grateful to Doug Wright who explained the subject of enough notice on this paper to offer discussion at a the Perisher Valley development in both the General Meeting and the closing date for submissions was 31 October. The same also applies the infrastructure to provide services for larger to our submission to the Tinderry Nature Reserve numbers of visitors. - Plan of Management. As users of the Park, mainly during the non- Our membership numbers have suffered a snow season, we are aware there is likely to be far slump in recent weeks and in most cases this seems less demand for the proposed facilities outside of the due to members forgetting to renew their ski season. To create such a demand in a National membership. I know of one current Committee Park is highly inappropriate. The Perisher Valley has member who forgot but was fortunately (for us) little potential as a summer resort as it doesn't financial at the time of the AGM. So if you know of compare with the superior physical settings of any members who have not received their It for a Thredbo or Jindabyne. month or so, ask them to check with the Membership Thredbo provides relatively easy walking Secretary if their membership is still current. access to Mt Kosciuszko. Perisher Valley, a car drive In this issue there should be (he says with away from Charlotte Pass and a longer walk to Mt some trepidation!) an insert for Jurkiewicz Kosciuszko, has little to offer the casual or Adventure Sports who are providing a special sale enthusiastic bushwalker. Each provide a different evening on the evening of 20 November. So if you're experience of the mountains. looking for some new gear at special prices, then To talk of the Perisher Valley as providing a make sure you get there. "sense of arrival" is nonsense when visitors have Finally I would like to mention the owners of already stopped at or passed through Jindabyne - and the Pho Phu Quoc Restaurant, where members have encouraged to stop at the excellent new visitor centre been dining prior to monthly General Meetings for built at a cost of millions of tax payers dollars. Why the past year. Apart from their excellent meals at not consider free or cheap shuttle transport between reasonable prices they came to the rescue at the Jindabyne and Bullocks Flat to encourage greater use October Meeting by providing something different - of the more environmentally friendly Ski Tube built an electric extension cord - essential for the use of at high cost? projection equipment. We believe the above plans of the NPWS Chris Roper, President P should be withdrawn and revised plans put forward with consideration to the above.

PERISHER VALLEY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE VACANCY PROPOSALS - I I POINTS RAISED IN CBC SUBMISSION Vice-President/Treasurer We believe that the plan to develop further Gary Trevean, our recently re-elected Vice- accommodation, including a village centre and high President/Treasurer for the past year has had to give rise development, at resorts on the Perisher Range up the position due to competing personal and work should be rejected as unnecessary and inappropriate. commitments. Gary's contribution to the Committee With forecasts of global warming, resulting will be missed. in reduced of snowfalls in the mountains, the Gary's departure also means that we are now proposed increase in the amount of accommodation looking for a replacement. The basic job description and number of chair lifts is economically short- (from the September It) is: sighted with the attendant risk of long term Deputizes for the President and manages the environmental damage. Club's finances. Maintains the account The planned development would be books, advises the Committee and Club detrimental to the environment and indigenous flora members on financial matters, pays and fauna. The setting of the Perisher Range is accounts, banks money, provides receipts suitable as a winter resort only and further and drafts the budget for the following year. development of accommodation, more likely to detract from any natural attraction rather than A good head for figures is important and enhance it, should be concentrated at Jindabyne and access to a PC running Excel (VS or later) would be Bullocks Flat, outside the National Park. Jindabyne, an advantage. with established facilities including commercial Does this sound like you? If so, give Chris accommodation, shops and food outlets, already has Roperaring on 6287 1243 (h) or 6272 5151 (w).

Canberra Bushwa!king Club IT November 1997 page 2

TRIP PREVIEW Schlink, Whites R, Diane, Valentine, Mawson, I Tin, Boltons, Horse Camp, Disappointment The 75 (or more) Koseiuszko Huts Spur. Maps: Kosciuszko, Khancoban. Burrungubugge, Kidmans, Daveys, Botherum Most walkers who have stayed in a hut in the Plain. Maps: Khancoban, Berridale, Kosciuszko NP are aware of the efforts of the KHA Kosciuszko. in preserving these huts. However, 1 think few people Doctor Forbes, Geehi, Old Geehi, Keeble, realise there are 75+ habitable huts in the park, not Doctors. Map: Kosciuszko. counting those in adjoining Namadgi. Some of these Seamans, Cootapatamba. Map: Kosciuszko. 75 I have lumped together, (e.g. Currango, which Cascade, Tin Mine, Stockwhip. Map: Thredbo. consists of about 3 main buildings and 26 others). The last few huts are either by the road or do Thanks to the efforts of the Park's service, the not fit in to a coherent trip: Vickerys, Sandy Creek, KI-IA and other groups, most of the huts are being Bullocks, Illawong (locked?), Cesjacks, Grey Hill maintained, (CBC painted Boltons Hill Hut a few Cafe, Major Clews, Hoggs, and many huts at years ago), but huts are still being lost - mainly to Kiandra, and the SMA huts Siren Song and Opera fire. In the last few years Rowleys Orroral (1994), House. Montagues (86), Cool Plain (88), Rutledges (86) Harris (96), Slaughterhouse, Oldfields No. 2 (92) Murray Dow P have been burnt, and Dr. Phillips (87), Ingeegoodbee Fax: 6279 8199 Phone: 6249 5028 and Little Thredbo (84) have been removed. E-mail: [email protected] Over the next few years I am going to attempt to visit most of the huts, mainly the ones WALKS PLANNING EVENING away from roads (because I appreciate peace). At a I I rate of2 huts a day this will take me about 40 days of There will be a Walks Planning Evening, walking to do. Some of the huts are not marked on preceded by a byo BBQ, at the home of Janet and the maps but most are listed in the KHA hut list. The Paul Edstein, 19 Gamor Street, Waramanga, on list is partly reproduced in Klaus' book 'Huts of the Monday 14 November. Come along for the BBQ High Country' which, despite its name, lists only huts from 6pm, or come later for the walks planning part of Koscuiszko and not those of Victoria or ACT. of the evening. This evening should fill some holes in the summer program and lay the groundwork for a I would appreciate your help in notifying me balanced autumn program of walks. Even if you have of any omissions or additions, as I have visited very not I do not want to lead walks, it can be worthwhile few of them myself. I have attempted to list the huts attending one of these evenings. It is an opportunity grouped according to the trips in which I intend to to talk to the leaders and suggest the types of walks visit them, but not necessarily in the order in which I you want on the program. propose to visit them. I do not intend to visit locked huts or sheds built for the Snowy hydro scheme and I If you're thinking of leading your first trip, may not get to some of the solitary huts. you should be able to find an experienced leader who I. Hams, Witzes, Gooandra. Map: Tantangara. is willing to co-lead with you. There will be lots of Oldfields, Pockets, Bill Jones, Coolamine, reference material available, including the Club map Cooinbill, Currango, Old Currango. Maps: collection, books on walking in the region, and lists Rules Point, Rendezvous Ck, Peppercorn. of possible walks. Hainsworth, Millers, Long Plain. Map: Rules For further information, ring Janet and Paul Point. 6288 1398 (h) re the barbecue, or Allan Mikkelsen Plonkys, Kells. Maps: Brindabella, Blowering 6278 3164 (h) re any walks for the program. Gavells, Brayshaw, Schofields, Circuits, Allan Mikkelsen, Walk Secretary Townshend, Pedens. Maps: Denison, P Tan! angara. BEGINNERS CANYONINGI'ABSEILING Tantangara, Delanys, Sawyers. Maps: I I Tantangara, Denison. A couple of members have asked me about Four Mile, Broken Dam. Map: Cabrarnurra. canyoning and abseiling, how they can learn and Boltons Hill, Happys, Brooks, Happy Jacks where to go. If you're intrersted, please contact Doug Plain, Boobee, Mackeys, O'Keefes, Derschko, Floyd. Ph:6216 5552 (w) or 6248 7381 (h). Round Mtn, Linesman 2 & 3, Bradleys. Maps: I am ready to help train people and lead such a trip if Eucumbene, Cabrarnurra, Khancoban. there is enough interest. Wheelers, Pretty Plain, Patons, Grey Mare. Map: Khancoban. Doug Floyd P

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 3 OBITUARY - GRAHAM GUTTRIDGE TINDERRY NATURE RESERVE I I DRAFT PLAN OF MANAGEMENT It is with regret that we report the death on August 16 The Club has lodged a submission supporting of former Club member Graham Guttridge at the age the draft plan of management. As noted in last of 50 years. Graham was a member of the Club for month's It, the plan includes significant conservation several years before resigning in 1995 due to ill-health. commitments and maintains existing restrictions on, Graham was well known in Canberra walking circles, vehicle access to the reserve. Our own access to this having been a member also of the National Parks popular area for club walks remains unaffected. Association and the Family Bushwalkers Inc. He will be sadly missed by those who walked with him. Allan Mildcelsen P Wanted - Transport or Drivers MEMBERSHIP MATTERS I am planning a Kosciuszko to Kiandra I I crossing from 27 December 1997 to 1 January 1998 Prospective members: (see Activity Program for details) and am looking for None this month help with transport to avoid the hassles of a very long car shuffle and the security risks associated with New members: leaving cars unattended for almost a week. Michael Hansford, Sonia L'Heureux Please give me a call 6282 2403 (h) or Roger Edwards, Membership Secretary P 6274 1715 (w) if you'd be willing to: • put a 1ay walk on the program on 27 CONSERVATION NEWS December in the Thredbo/Charlotte Pass I area or on 1 January in the Kiandra area and include us in your party's transport NSW NATIONAL PARKS - arrangements; or DRAFT PUBLIC ACCESS STRATEGY • drive our cars to or from Canberra and join Dianne Thompson, Doug Wriht and I us for the first or last day of the walk. represented the Club at a NSW NPWS Regional Terence Uren, Conservation Officer Forum on the draft access strategy, held at P Queanbeyan on 18 October. We were, unfortunately, heavily outnumbered by well organised groups of FROM THE EDITOR trail bike riders, 4WD enthusiasts, local.landowners and commercial recreation interests who argued Don't forget that the closing date for copy for forcefully for increased (and in many cases It is always the Committee Meeting each month (i.e. unrestricted) access to national parks for their groups 4th Wednesday). I do the final processing in MS and for an end to wilderness areas. Word for Windows 6. 1 can also accept copy in a variety of other PC-based word-processing formats, The Club will be lodging a formal including WordPerfect (up to version 6) and MS submission, stating its - Works (up to Version 3 for Windows). Send copy by support for the nature conservation e-mail (as plain ASCII text only), by fax or on disk objectives of national parks and the existing (IBM PC or Mac 1.4Mb, in any of the above WP restrictions on access to wilderness areas; formats). I can also accept digitised images in most and popular PC formats. • opposition to incteased roading, vehicle access and built accommodation within You can contact me by national parks. phone: 6271 4514 (w) 6288 1398 (Ii) fax: 6271 4613 Members are encouraged to prepare their e-mail: [email protected] own submissions - contact me if you need a copy of For Internet users, the Club Home Page is on the draft strategy. Submissions should be forwarded the World Wide Web at: by 18 November 1997 to: http:IIwww.pcug.org.au/-amikkels/cbchome.html NPWS Public Access Strategy and the latest program is at: P0 Box 1967 HURST VILLE NSW 2220 http://www.pcug.orgaut-amildcels/cbcprog.html

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 4 As I put my day pack with its two full I Trip Reports I wineskins carefully on the ground, Pat cried out, "Watch for the burrs; they're all over the ground!" MACDONNELL RANGES PART ONE: Too late. The small, slender spines of some MT ZEIL TO REBBANK GORGE insignificant creeping plant had pierced one of the 3-8 JULY, 1997 wineskins and tiny silver drops had started to form Water and transport - these are the two on the outside. Fortunately Rene had some factors which are most daunting when organising a waterproof Leucoplast, but despite our most careful trip in the MacDonnell Ranges of Central Australia efforts, several wineskins had patches by the time we compared to walking in most of the south eastern left three days later. We decided it wasn't worth states. Other aspects more than compensate - risking our Thermarests. stunning scenery, dramatic gorges, beautiful Now that we knew we had a reliable water wildflowers and birds and plenty of opportunity for supply, we could concentrate our efforts on climbing exploration. Zeil. The first few kms were up the creek, which We solved the transport problem by using climbed steadily through boulders and over dry Gerry Gerrard again from Sandrifter Safaris, having waterfalls and gave us views out over the peaks and found him reliable on previous trips. He was plains to the north. Then when the creek split in two prepared to drive us over rough roads on pastoral we headed up the spur in the middle, which rose leases and to store spare food and clothes for a steeply for bump after bump until at last we reached second tri, AND he never failed to pick us up. a point where we had an uninterrupted view to the Frank used the Internet to keep an eye on the rainfall south. It was already past lunch time, so most of us for a good six months before we left; there was no stopped there while Rene and Mark travelled the doubt the country would be considerably wetter than extra three kms to the summit. The view was superb, it had been the previous year, the driest I have so far out over native pines to the south where we could see experienced. Mts Razorback and Sonder and our destination, Redbank Gorge, almost invisible in the distance; Mt We had no problems driving into No 15 bore, Giles and the Chcwings Range, scene of our next 200 km from Alice Springs and 4 km north of where trip, to the south-east; and to the north and west a a major creek flowed out of the mountainous massif myriad of peaks I hadn't even known existed: We which is Mt Zeil; 15 km long, 7-8 km broad and at caught occasional glimpses of Rene and Mark 1531 in the highest peak in the Northern Territory. If moving along the summit ridge, below which the the geology was anything like the familiar Chewings southern face of the mountain fell away in great Range, we would find water where the creek hit the sloping expanses of red-brown rock. plain. It was past lunchtime by the time we arrived at a suitable campsite, except .... there was no water in Having achieved our objective of climbing the rocky creek bed. Half an hour upstream there was Mt Zeil (well, we'd put two members of the party on still no water, so we returned for a despondent lunch, top and the rest of us had reached the southern crest), thinking about our meagre supplies, the cattle- we thought it was time for a "rest" day. Frank and I polluted dam 15 kms back along the road and had a pleasant stroll up a broad, dry valley, where we Redbank Gorge where water was assured two days admired the flowers and birds, heard a dingo howl, and 35 kms away across unknown territory. saw a roo and found a fine example of a stone hand axe and some other stone implements. Pat and Eric After lunch we split into four groups and were more task oriented and headed off to the south headed in different directions. An hour away in the cast to suss out our route for the next day. The only next creek east along the mountain, Frank and I came water they found was a little pool of "kangaroo piss", upon a beautiful little pool of clean water followed as Eric so graphically put it, about eight kms from by another further upstream underneath a dry camp. That afternoon we went back up our camp waterfall. As we were filling up our wineskins, a creek to have a wash and collect enough water to family of three colourful crested pigeons were thirsty take us through to Redbank Gorge. enough to come down and drink beside us, keeping a wary eye on us all the while. We returned to camp to Next morning we arose at dawn and set off find that Mark and Paul had also found several good as early as possible, laden down with at least eight pools, 45 minutes up the main creek. What a relief - litres of water each (somehow Ann managed to carry we weren't going to die of thirst after all! Suddenly ten) on top of already heavy packs. Despite frequent an hour and a half return trip to fetch water seemed stops to rest our shoulders, we made good time up trivial. the valley and were soon rewarded with views up a side valley to the summit with its characteristic long, sloping cliffs. Eric's and Pat's pool did indeed look

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 5 as it had been described, but that didn't stop us section of the Larapinta Trail. Next morning, Carla, having a rest there and watching a flock of brightly Gerry's daughter, picked us up and drove us off to coloured finches flying in and out and in again for a the Ochre Pits for the start of our next trip. drink. Had we been desperate for water, we could As a first trip in this area, our walk was quite have dug into the sand at the side and waited till it successful. The area is dryer and harsher than the settled. Several kms further on, after we had swung Chewings Range, but well worth exploring after to the south around the eastern side of Zeil and above average rains. Zeil seems to hold water in its started to climb up towards the saddle which creeks towards the centre of the mountain, rather separated us from the headwaters of Cra'vford Creek, than at its edges (on the northern side ; anyway - I we saw a dry waterfall ahead of us, and, at its base, a haven't investigated the southern side). Because it large pool of clean water. If only we had known was dryer than expected, we bypassed Mt Razorback. when we left camp! Finally we reached the However, a month later, Frank and I were able to watershed with its views of Sonder and Razorback climb Razorback in a day (22km, 10 hours return) and dropped down into a dry sandy creekbed to from the campground at Redhank Gorge and found spend a cold night camped beneath the river red good water in a little gorge on the eastern side. This gums. We hoped the fire didn't cook any burrowing could provide a base for investigating the creeks on frogs - Paul had found one when levelling out his the northern side and walking through to Zeil. tent site. A word of warning - make sure you have Have you ever tried navigating off a plenty of leakproof water containers (at least three 1:250,000 map? Fortunately visibility was good and litres capacity), and if you use wineskins for extra we made our way towards the western end of Sonder capacity, take plenty of spares with waterproof tape where Redbank Gorge slashes through the range, to plug holes caused by spinifex or any other of the crossing a series of low, rocky, spinifex covered myriad types of spiky vegetation. hills, dry, tree-lined creeks and dusty plains eaten out and eroded by cattle and camels. At the top of each Party: Frank and Meg McKone, Pat and Eric ridge we had fine views of Zeil becoming bluer in the Pickering, Rene Davies, Ann Gibbs-Jordan, Paul distance and Sonder looming larger,- -closer and Donohue, Mark Hopkins. redder. We were hot and tired when we finally Meg McKone ftr reached Redbank Creek late in the afternoon and about 7 km upstream from the Gorge, so we were delighted to find a superb pool of water at the end of AUDITOR'S REPORT a rocky section a few kms on with sandy banks and a I I fine view of Sonder. After a few comments about CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB INC. swimming in our drinking water, we managed to I have audited the financial reports set out in bathe on one side of the pool and gather water from the Balance Sheet of the Canberra Bushwalking Club the other; anyway, the cattle had been none too Inc in accordance with Australian Auditing particular about what they did in the accessible Standards. downstream end. Minor errors of an immaterial nature were detected. Sonder proved to be photogenic both in the Notwithstanding these, in my opinion the financial evening and at sunrise, which was after seven, so we reports present fairly the financial position of the didn't have to strain ourselves getting up at an Club as at 30 June 1997 and the results of its ungodly hour. We even had time for a warm shower, operations for the financial year then ended in thanks to National Geographic and a poisonous accordance with the Statements of Accounting melon which carried the rope over the branch of a Concepts and Australian Accounting Standards. big river gum so we could hoist the shower bag above our heads. It was a shower with a view, even if the air was chilly. There were several more big pools (signed) - on the way down to Redbank Gorge, where we John Kyatt (ASA) collected water on the northern side as we suspected 2/4 Booth Street Queanbeyan NSW 2620 the southern side would be polluted by tourists. Then Date: 9 October 1997. it was a two hour bash up and over the range, as the water in the deep, narrow gorge was far too cold to NB: The financial reports appeared in the swim through. As we had feared, the water at the September 1997 It. tourist end looked very dirty. It is the only water available at the roadhead and is recommended as the only available water for two days on the far western

Canberra Bushwa!king Club IT November 1997 page 6 Joint Canberra Bushwalking Cluh/ National Parks Association! Family Bnshwalkers Incorporated Club Night

at

j:jj}U(tE%4JJCZ

Thursday 20 November 1997 6.00 - 8.00pm 47 Wollongong Street FYSH WICK

What you can look forward to: * 20% OFF All Backpacking Gear and Accessories.

* Lucky Door Prize - Mont 'Backcountry' Pack -Value $459.00 - Mont 'Windstopper' Jacket -Value $289.00

* Gore-Ta presentation by Dan Callison of W.L. Gore Australia - slides and demonstrations at 6.30pm.

* Followed by John Consadine of Mont with their range of Gore-Tex, Activent and WindStopper.

This evening is exclusive to members of the three above mentioned clubs. Any further enquires , do not hesitate to contact Simon Langford.

JURKIEWICZ Adventure Sports 47 Wollongong Street, FYSHWICK ACT 2609 Ph: (02) 6280 6033 Fax: (02) 6280 7074 Email:jasspirit.com.au ACTIVITY PROGRAM GRADING OF WALKS: BOOKING FOR WALKS: I (5) Short - under 12km/day. Ring the leader early rather than late. Please ring by (M) Medium - 12-20km/day. Thursday 2.00 p.m. for the following weekend (both one Long - over 20km/day. day and two day walks) so the leader has time to arrange (E) Easy - firetrail, tracks, beaches etc. transport. Medium - bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub. 16 is the maximum, unless a smaller number is advertised (R) Rough - much scrub, steep climbs, rock scrambles. in the program. (W) Wet - compulsory swims, many river crossings. Please be specific if the leader asks about your walking NOTE: In calculating distance, 1 km is added for every 100 experience. Check with the leader about the need to carry metres climbed, water, tents/flys, appropriate clothing, suitable foot-wear, purchasing maps, etc. Ask questions especially if you are new to club walking.

WILD CARD WALKS - Phone ROB HORSFIELD 6231 4535(h) No walk on that suits you? Walk is booked out when you ring the leader? Found you have time for a walk after all? Rob will put you in touch with other people in a similar situation, help find a leader and get you out in the bush. The sooner you ring Rob, the better your weekend or day walk will be!

TRANSPORT: Costs are presently 25 cents a kilometre per car, divided equally among ALL participants. This amount is a guide only and can be varied at the discretion of the leader depending on the condition of the roads, the number of passengers per car and other factors. The figures given for individual trips are rough estimates only, based on four people per car and other factors - costs may rise if cars are only partly filled. Park admission and camping fees are additional costs which leaders should list separately. Members are reminded that bookings normally close at 2 p.m. on Thursday.

NOTICE TO ALL PARTICIPANTS: Every person taking part in a CBC activity does so as a volunteer in all respects and accepts responsibility for any personal injury or loss incurred. Prospective participants should check with the leader that they are capable of completing the proposed trip based on their previous experience, fitness and personal capabilities. Participants should also ask the leader what the trip entails and what food, equipment or special skills are required. Conversely, leaders should also ensure these points are checked and may reject an applicant they consider unsuitable for the trip.

SEARCH & RESCUE ORGANIZATION S&R Contacts: David Campbell 6272 2025(w), 6254 1511(h), or the President or Walks Secretary Area Coordinators: Belconnen - Pat Miethke 6249 3085(w), 6241 2798(h); Woden - Doug Wright 6281 4148(h).

CHECK-IN I CONTACT OFFICER The Check-in /Contact Officer for the Club is John Dean 6291 8124 (h) 6282 5501 (w). He (not the Police or other bodies) should be the first point of contact for worried relatives if you are late in returning from a trip. Leaders must also report the safe return OR cancellation of their trip to the Check-in Officer.

EQUIPMENT HIRE Take advantage of the excellent gear that the Club has available for hire before lashing out on your own equipment. The Equipment Officer is Mike Pedvin, who can be contacted on 6288 5751(h), 6277 3966(w). The equipment available and current rates per weekend/week II. ' are set out below. Hirers are responsible for collecting and .. returning the equipment. A deposit of $20 is required and part or all of this will be refunded, depending on the condition of the a items upon return (e.g. damaged or dirty) and whether they are -I,It , tI, returned late.

Item we/week Item w.e.!week Olympus two person tent $15/$40 Assorted packs $5 / $15 Macpac Microlight one person tent $15 / $40 Trangia and fuel bottle $5 / $15 3 season bag, mat and liner $10 / $25 Long bed compass no charge - just a $5 deposit Snow sleeoino ban, mat and liner

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 7 Wednesday 12 November - Wednesday Walk Wednesday 19 Noveni her - General Meeting -MJM Speaker Allan Mikkelsen The regular Wednesday walk series continues. Wanderings in Burma, the Eimalayas, and the Close to Canberra with destination to be Andes in 1995 and 1996 decided. Leader: Allan Mikkelsen Saturday 22 November - Square Rock - StE 6278 3164 (h). A pleasant walk through attractive forest south 15 - 16 November - Martins Creek Canyon - of Canberra. Enjoy spectacular views at lunch M/R over the Orroral Valley. Map: Corin Dam We will walk in through the Nattai Gorge (on 1:25,000 Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568 (h) track), camp in lower Martins Creek and make a 6274 7802 (w) Transport: -$6. leisurely return through the canyon, sampling 22 - 23 November - Wombeyan Caves - SIE the pools and admiring the waterfalls. The area A car camping weekend with two very short is characterised by spectacular sandstone cliffs, (Skin) walks (Boxvale Tunnel and Nattai attractive paperbarks growing along the river Lookout, Wombeyan Falls). Also a very scenic and prolific birdlife. Maps: Hilltop and Nattai drive from Mittagong and optional cave 1:25,000; Leader: George Carter 6251 2130 (h) inspections. Return via' Taralga. Suitable for or 0419 603 334 (mob). children. Map: Blue Mtns Tourist Leader: Jeff 15 - 16 November - Wallaga Lake Weekend Bennetts 6231 5899 (h) Transport: - $25-30 + Canoe Tour camp & cave entry fees. Easy canoe trip on the South Coast, camping 22 - 23 November - Munyang to Valentines next to the Lake at a caravan park. Various trip Hut - M/M options depending on weather and tides. Lots of Walk through Schlink Pass and along parts of birdlife to be seen in the sheltered arms and also the Alpine Walking Track to the Valentines Hut lovely mountain backdrops. BYO canoe or share area. On the way we should get great views of a hired canoe. Leaders: Ian Smith & Sandy Dicky Cooper Bogong, Gungartan, and the Berry 6282 1226 (h). Transport: $130/car Kerries.. Maps: Mount Kosciuszko & Sunday 16 November - Mt Orroral - MIR Khancoban 1:50,000 Leader: Darryl Alexander From the Orroral Tracking Station ruins follow 6231 8169(h) 6244 6525(h) Transport: -$25 the road towards the Lunar Laser Ranger for a + park entry fee. Note: Limit of 6. kilometre before heading into the scrub. 22 - 23 November - Clyde River Weekend Scramble along a rocky ridge for another kilometre. Then scrub bash up to the top of Mt Canoe Tour Orroral for views of the Orroral Valley. May Launching from Bateman's Bay, paddle also visit a couple of the other rocky knolls upstream with the tide exploring the Buckenbowra River near Runnyford. Canoe nearby. Total ascent is 600m. Maps: ACT based camping perhaps on an island in the Clyde 1: 100,000; Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leader: River. Paddle upstream on Sunday to Nelligen Roger Edwards 6295 4598 (w) or and perhaps down again to Batemans Bay. BYO 6288 7863 (h). Transport: '- $8. canoe or share a hired canoe. Leader: Mike Sunday 16 November - Rock Climbing - Bremers 6292 3408 (h) 6283 2052 (w) Booroomba Rocks Transport: $100/car. Please book by Wed 19 Easy to intermediate climbs. Instruction Nov. provided if required. Suitable footwear Sunday 23 November - Cathedral Rocks (aka essential. Map: Corin Dam 1:25,000 Leader: Orroral Tor) - M/M John I'Ons 6231 6326 (h). Transport: $8. From Orroral campground, long gentle ascent to Monday 17 November - Kambah Pool top of hill to north then drop down to the rocks. Evening - SIEIW? Return along Orroral River. Just scrapes from Head to Kambah Pool for an evening picnic, and S/E-M into M/M. Map: Rendezvous Creek a swim if you like. On arrival, bear left to the 1:25,000 Leader: John Dean 6291 8124(h) carpark and, from there, down to the 6282 5501 (w) Transport: - $8. Murrumbidgee River We'll be in that general vicinity. Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (h). Monday 24 November - Walks Planning & BBQ 6pm at the home of Janet & Paul Edstein 19 Ganior St, Waramanga See Notice elsewhere in this It

Canbe,ra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 8 Wednesday 26 November - Committee Meeting 6 - 7 December - Shoalhaven - Badgery's to 8pm at the home of Janet & Paul Edstein Canoe Flat - M/MIW 19 Gamor St, Waranianga A short walk will take us to an early base camp at Canoe Flat. Optional side excursions to climb Nbvember (28)-30 - Monga State Forest - 5- MIM-R Billy Bulloos Crown, rock hop up Billy Bulloo's Canyon, or explore further down the Walk organised by the Australian Conservation Shoalhaven. AIte?natively, simply relax and Foundation's Forest Campaign Group who will swim on the beach at Canoe Flat. provide the breakfast and dinner at $10 per Map: Caoura person. Friday evening car camp. Short, 1:25,000. Leadei: Allan Mikkelsen informative walks in area of rainforset under 6278 3164 (h). Transport: $15. threat from logging. Organiser: Roger Beddis 6-7 December Wilkinsons Valley LIM 6230 3348 (h&w) Maps: Monga and An exploration of the western end of the Main Braidwood 1:25,000. Transport: - $15. Range. From Dead Horse Gap we'll follow Bookings close 2:00pm. Wednesday 26 Bogong Spur to the Rams Head then head down November to Cootapatamba Valley, up Wilkinsons Creek, along Abbott Ridge and across to a picturesque Saturday 29 November - Booroomba Rocks campsite at Moira's Flat. Optional side trip to Carpark to Orroral Valley - MIM Alice Rawson Peak if time permits. Return will Lack of imagination frames much of the ACT be via the headwaters of Swampy Plain River segment of the Australian Alpine Walking Trail. and Leather Barrel Creek and over South Rams Main roads are meant for cars, not long distance Head. Maps: Thredbo and Kosciusko 1:50,000 walkers. It should not be necessary to walk on Leader: Terence Uren 6282 2403 (h) them or miss out entirely on Legoland or 6274 1715 (w) Transport: $25 Brindabella vi&.vs. There are better ways. Map: + park entry Note: Limit of 8. Corin Dam 1:25,000 Leader: Ted Fleming 6286 6008 (h) (evenings best) Transport: - $8. Sunday 7 December - Mulligan's Flat - S!E A pleasant walk on the northern outskirts of November 29-30 - Kangarutha Track - SIE Canberra. The Mulligan's Flat Nature Park The Kangarutha Track offers an outstanding straddles the Gundaroo Road, just south of the coastal walk through the northern section of NSW border. We will follow good tracks Bournda National Park behveen Turingal Head basically along the fenceline of the park through and Kianniny Bay. Following a Wallagoot rolling and flat country with some attractive Lake/beach walk on Saturday afternoon, well views. Map: ACT 1:100,000 Leader: Stan indulge in a gourmet dinner at Hobart Beach, Marks 6254 9568 (h) 6274 7802 (w) Transport: and on Sunday will enjoy the delightful -$2 northside, $4 southside. surprises afforded by the Track. Leader: Sylvia Flaxman 6260 9256 (w), 6236 3125 (h) Please Sunday 7 December - Canoeing on Lake con/act leader by 21 Nov as we iieed to book at Burrinjuck to Devil's Pass Hobart Beach (inin fees apply). Transport: - Easy day trip on Burrinjuck starting from $25. Woolgarlo on the Yass River Arm paddling north to a canyon known as Devil's Pass. BYO Sunday 30 November - Rocky Ridge - M/R canoe or share a hired canoe.Leader: Mike Climb up to the ridge on the eastern side of Bremers 6292 3408 (h) 6283 2052 (w) Rendezvous Creek and follow it towards Transport: $70/car Nursery Hill. When apathy sets in descend to the grassy areas around the creek and return to Monday 8 December - Kambah Pool Evening cars. There may be some interesting rock - S/E/W? formations and vantage points along the ridge Head to Kambah Pool for an evening picnic, and line. Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leader: a swim if you like. On arrival, bear left to the Roger Edwards 6295 4598 (w) or carpark and, from there, down to the 6288 7863 (h). Transport: $10. Murrumbidgee River We'll be in that general vicinity. Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (Ii). Monday 1 December - Kambah Pool Evening - SIEIW? Tuesday 9 December-11 Collation Head to Kambah Pool for an evening picnic, and 8pm atthe home of Doug Wright, a swim if you like. On arrival, bear left to the 18 Beedham Place, Lyons carpark and, from there, down to the or come at6pm for a REQ Murrumbidgee River We'll be in that general vicinity. Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (h).

Canberra Bushwalking Club IT November 1997 page 9

Wednesday 10 December - Wednesday Walk Monday 15 December - Kambah Pool -MIM Evening - S/EIW? The regular Wednesday walk series continues. Head to Kambah Pool for an evening picnic, and Close to Canberra with destination to be a swim if you like. On arrival, bear left to the decided. Contact leader before or at IT carpark and, from there, down to the Collation. Leader: Allan Mikkelsen Murrumbidgee River We'll be in that general • 6278 3164(h). vicinity. Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (h). 13 - 15 December - Rivers and Rainforests of Wednesday 17 December - the Budawangs -M!R - CBW Christmas Party, This will be a circuit taking in some of the best from 6pm at Weston Park of the Budawangs. Starting from Yadboro we (near the childrens' playground) will go via Monolith Valley (with side trip up Mt Nibelung for the energetic), Angel Creek Saturday 20 December - Gingera Wildflowers rainforest (first camp), Hollands Creek, Clyde Walk - M/M River (second camp) and Castle Gap. Map: Escape the Christmas shopping rush! Walk from Corang 1:25,000, CMW Budawangs. Leader: Ginini to the summit of Gingera via Stockyard George Carter 6251 2130 (h) or Arboretum for good views of the ACT and 0419 603 334 (mobile). 'Transport: $25. Kosciusko National Park. There should be early Note: Limit of 8. summer wildflowers in abundance. Maps: ACT 13 - 14 December - Hams, Witses and 1:100,000; Corin Dam 1:25,000 Leader: Allan Gooandra Huts - MIM Mikkelsen 6278 3164 (h). Transport:— $10. Via Bullock Hill fire trail then across country to Thursday 25 December - Springbank Island - camp near Mains hut. Next day over zinc ridge Christmas Day Picnic - S/E (a lovely brumby route) to Witzes hut then All CBC members and friends are invited to a across the Tantangara plain to inspect picnic lunch (byo) on Springbank Island, Lake renovations at Gooandra, then across Gooandra Burley-Griffin. Meet by the lake at the Acton creek to the car. Hams is a fishernians but by the Peninsular jetty (at the end of Lawson Drive) at Murrumbidgee, built by Herb Hain in 1947 for mid-day. From there we'll row/sail to the island. grazing. Witses built 1952 by Clarrie Butler, for Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (h). grazing, now used mostly, by fisherfolk. Map: PS: con/act Doug for further information and Tantangara 1:25,000 Leader: Murray Dow let him know Jyou can bring a boat or canoe to 6257 4371 (h) Transport: TBA help ferry the party to the island and back. 13 - 14 December - South Coast Weekend Friday 26 December - Monday/Tuesday 29/30 Canoe Trip on Lake Conjola December - Alpine Wildflowers - MIE Easy paddling around the inland reaches of Lake Walk among the alpine wildflowers on Mts Conjola which is near Ulladulla, north of StilwelI, Carruthers, .Kosciuszko and Watsons Batemans Bay. Lots of sheltered bays and lovely Crags in the Kosciuszko National Park between mountain views to be enjoyed. Leaders: Ian Christmas & New Year. Self catering lodge Smith & Sandy Berry 6282 1226 (h). accommodation available at Charlottes Pass Transport: $130/car Please book by Wed $25/double room. Map: Kosciuszko 1:25,000 10 Dec Leader: Doug Wright 6281 4148 (Ii). Sunday 14 December - The High Forest - M/M Transport: —$24 + park fees. Visit Potters and Chalkers huts before a short As the number of beds is li,niied, please contact scrub bash up to the high forest. Follosr a fire Doug Wright as soon as possible LI you would trail to the top of Mount Clear for views over like to stay at Chrlottes Pass at this timne. the Monaro Plain. Descend to Naas Creek and Saturday 27 December - Thursday 1 January return to cars. About 550 metres of climbing. Tuross River - S/R & possibly W Maps: ACT 1:100,000; Bredbo 1:25,000 Drive to junction of Woila Ck and Tuross R. Leader: •Roger Edwards 6295 4598 (w) or Walk upstream to Tuross Gorge. Possible 6288 7863 (h). Transport: - $12. options: return via Myrtle Ck; climb Jillicambra Mtn. Map: Belowra 1:25,000 Leader: Meg McKone 6254 5902 (Ii) Transport: —$30

Canberra Busbwalking Club IT November 1997 page 10 Saturday 27 December - Thursday 1 January January 1998 - Lower Brogo, Yankeys Creek Kosciuszko to Kiandra M-LIE-M -PAIR The classic high country crossing. Six days and Leader: George Carter 6251 2130(h) or 100km of alpine delights. We'll walk the ridge 0419 603 334 (mob). of the Great Divide for the first three days and and then head for Kiandra via creek lines and Sunday 18 January - Compo Canyon - trails to the east of Jagungal. Proposed route is: MIM/W? Day I: Mt Kosciuszko - Lakes Walking Track - Visit Marble Arch and then head over to the Anton Saddle (18km) Queanbeyan River to explore Compo Canyon. Day 2: Mt Tate - Rolling Ground - Gungarten - Map: Captains Flat 1:25,000. Leader: Roger Tin Hut (2 1km) Edwards 6295 2598 (w) 6288 7863 (h) Day 3: Brassy Mountains - Mailbox Hill - Bulls Transport: $8 Peaks - Cesjacks Hut (16km) Day 4: DoubtThl Creek - Grey Mare Trail - Wednesday 21 January - Mackeys Hut (10km) New Year REQ Day 5: Grey Mare Trail - Happy Jacks Creek - from 6pm at Urriara Crossing (East) Happys Hut (16km) (on the left as you descend the bill to the crossing) Day 6: Tabletop Mountain - Four Mile Saddle - It may still be possible to participate in:- Dunns Hill - Kiandra (19km). 30 November - 26 January - Alpine Walking Maps: Kosciusko, Khancoban and Eucumbene Track 1:50,000 Denison and Cabramurra 1:25,000 Walk from Walhalla in Victoria to Canberra Leader: Terence Uren 6282 2403 (h) along the Alpine Walking Track. The trip will 6274 1715 (w) Transport: TBANote: Limit of be in six stages, and people can come for all or 6. Fuel stoves required. Bookings by 20 any sections. Combined with Stromlo High December School. Contact Rob Horsfield 6231 4535 (h) soon as details need to be sorted out now. LEADERS: THERE IS A COPY OF THE WALKS BOOKING SHEET IN APRIL 1997 Ii. Please photocopy (or pick up blank forms at Club Meetings) and use the sheet tb record who is booked on your walks. Leave this information in your ,nailbox while you are away so we can find it in a Search and Rescue emergency. Don 'I forget to ring Job,: Dean - Check-I,: Officer - as sooz as you get back so he doesi: 't have to chase you. Ifyou do,: 't pho:e, Job,: has to treat the situation as a POSSIBLE EMERGENCY.

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL FORM (CURRENT MEMBERS ONLY)

Please take 5 seconds to look at your address label. Does it state Renew Soon, Renew Now orLast It? If the answer is YES, please fill in this form, cut it out and post it with the appropriate amount ($24 single / $32 family) to the Membership Secretary, Canberra Bushwalking Club, P0 Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601. I am aware that, though CBC office bearers and activity leaders take all reasonable care, when joining in any activity of the Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc. I do so as a volunteer in all respects and as such accept responsibility for any personal injury or loss incurred.

Address Code: Home Phone: Work

Please circle as appropriate: I am willing to participate in Search and Rescue YES NO at 2 hours' notice YES NO available next day YES NO available weekends only YES NO I am willing to lead Day walks YES NO Weekend walks YES NO Note: Renew early. Renewals received after the night of the monthly Committee meeting may not be processed until the subsequent month. :1 have enclosed a stamped addressed envelope for my Cloth Badge YES NO

Canbee'ra Bush walking Club IT November 1997 page 11 COMMITTEE 1996 -97 Home Work Fax

PRESIDENT Chris Roper 6287 1243 6272 5151

VICE PRESIDENT/TREASURER - - - WALKS SECRETARY Allan Mikkelsen 6278 3164 - - EDITOR Paul Edstein 6288 1398 6271 4514 6271 4613 MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Roger Edwards 6288 7863 6295 4598 - CONSERVATION OFFICER Terence Uren 6282 2403 6274 1715 - PUBLISHER Barry Munns 6286 3370 - - ASSISTANT WALKS SECRETARY John Dean 6291 8124 62825501 6291 8124 SOCIAL SECRETARY Eddie Cheetham 6257 1583 6207 4209 - MINUTE SECRETARY Jenny Horstield 6231 4535 - - CORRESPONDENCE SECRETARY Stan Marks 6254 9568 6274 7802 - MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES; Ring ROGER EDWARDS on 6288 7863 (h)

Print Post Approved Postage Paid PP248831 /00047 CANBERRA If undeliverable return to SURFACE GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601 iL MAIL 2IA

9/98 Reet VALLAK 5 Fuliwood St t WESTON ACT 2611

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