Spring Program 2020

THE BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020

SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC

Covid-19 Updates & Conditions

Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic the conditions which activities are operating under may differ from usual, and are changing regularly with government advice. Please refer to https://www.sbw.org.au/SBW-Activities-Program for current information.

WALKS GRADING Day Walk: A day walk means walking all day - the walks usually start at 8:00am and finish by dark. Often we have dinner afterwards. Weekend Walk: A weekend walk may start Friday night and camp at the start or early Saturday morning. On the first day, the party usually gets to camp after 3:00pm and before dark, (hopefully). Happy hour occurs before dinner and is a time when party members share ‘nibbles’. The next day’s walking could start between first light and 9:00am, usually 8:00 to 8:30am. We usually get back to the cars between early afternoon and dark. After dark finishes do happen, however they are usually not planned for. Often a dinner is arranged at a venue on the way home.

THE GRADING SYSTEM The Grading System is shown at the bottom of each page and has 4 categories: (D)istance, (F)itness, (A)scent, (T)errain and (E)xposure Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km; Fitness 1-3; Ascent 1-3; Terrain 1-3; Exposure

D - Distance: S Short - under 10 km per day M Medium - 10 - 20 km per day L Long - 20 - 30 km per day X Extra Long - more than 30 km per day F - Fitness: 1 Beginners - frequent long rest breaks 2 Intermediate - stand up regroups, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea breaks, stops for views 3 Strenuous, fit walkers only - short regroups, short meal breaks, potentially fast paced A - Ascent: 1 Flat to undulating 2 Undulating with one or more 200m to 300m climbs 3 Climbs of 300m plus, or one or more large steep climbs T - Terrain: 1 Formed tracks and / or open terrain, no scrub 2 Sections of rough track and / or off track and/or creek crossing and / or rock scrambling 3 Similar to 2 for long periods and / or thick scrub E - Exposure: Mild to high exposure to heights (yes or no)

Note that some walks may involve an exploratory component where the leader is exploring a new area or feature. Q - Qualifying: Prospective members note that qualifying walks are indicated on the program with a Q IMPORTANT: All Q walks require a good level of fitness. It is advisable that new members do a number of easier walks with the club prior to applying for a Q rated walk.

NPWS Party Limits DEADLINES FOR SUMMER 2020-21 PROGRAM WILDERNESS AREAS: 8 persons Period: Summer 2020-21 (Dec/Jan/Feb) OTHER NATIONAL PARK AREAS: 20 persons Deadline: Monday 2 Nov

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 2

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Walker Guidelines – before the walk

1. If you wish to participate in a programmed activity, contact leaders with reasonable notice. We recommend that weekend walks should be booked a week in advance and day walks should be booked by the Tuesday prior to the weekend of the walk. Many leaders send out walk information early in the week leading up to the walk, and later signups cause them additional work. At minimum, no later than 2 days before a day activity and 4 days before a full weekend activity. 2. Inform the leader of your level of experience and ability, and also any factor that may impair your walking. The suitability of any person taking part in a club activity is entirely at the discretion of the leader. Leaders may refuse to take any person on activities irrespective of whether that person is a member or not. 3. Leaders may cancel an activity if there are insufficient participants (less than 4) or if circumstances are likely to make conditions unsafe. 4. Advise the leader early if you have to withdraw from the activity as this allows someone on a waiting list to go. 5. Visitors are only permitted with the express permission of the leader.

Walker Guidelines – on the day

1. Arrive on time. Leaders and vehicles (at their discretion) will only wait 15 minutes. 2. Ensure you’re adequately equipped for the activity and all possible conditions with suitable clothing, hat, rain gear, sunscreen, food, sufficient water for the conditions (typically minimum of 2L), First Aid kit, torch and appropriate footwear. Check the club’s website and New Members’ booklet for details. 3. You will need to sign the activity sheet, after noting any hazards/risks that the leader will have indicated may be encountered. If you have any questions, ASK! 4. Let the leader know if you are taking any medication or have a medical condition that may require treatment. 5. Be prepared to follow the leader’s directions. They are volunteers but will have experience. 6. Walk together - this enhances group safety. Always keep sight of the person ahead - if you’re having trouble keeping up, you need to stop for water, a blister repair, rest or toilet break, TELL the leader. Never leave the party or fall behind the “tail”. 7. Allow sufficient space to ensure that you are not injured by branches flicking back or pressuring the pace of the person ahead. 8. On activities of more than one day you will have to provide your own camping gear. Prospective Members can borrow camping gear from the SBW Gear Officer 9. We expect walkers to be prepared and self-sufficient. 10. Carry out all rubbish. Minimum impact is our aim: “Take only photographs, leave only footprints”. 11. Have a sense of adventure and humour handy! 12. Leave a record of your intentions with a responsible person. All walkers should advise relatives/friends that they may return home later than planned due to unforeseen circumstances. Emphasise that they should wait ~15 hours after your expected return before becoming concerned.

PLEASE NOTE: All participants, including visitors, are reminded that they join in activities as volunteers. Your fitness is your responsibility. Bushwalking and other activities on our program have associated risks including but not limited to the risk of accidental injury. All persons joining in any activities of the Sydney Bush Walkers Inc. accept sole responsibility for any injury howsoever incurred and the Sydney Bush Walkers Inc., its office bearers and appointed leaders are absolved from any liability in respect of any injury or damage suffered whilst engaging in any such activity.

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 3

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Legend Colour Codes Abbreviations Day Q Walk NP: National Park Overnight Q Walk SF: State Forest Social Activity NR: Extended Walk SCA: State Conservation Area Any other Activity All Map scales are 1:25000 unless otherwise specified. Electronic topographic maps can be found on  https://maps.six.nsw.gov.au/etopo.html – select the map name from the drop-down list  https://maps.ozultimate.com/ - enter the Map Name into the search button on the right-hand side

Advance Notice and Extended Walks Fri 11 Sep - Kosciuszko NP - Kosciuszko Snowshoe Walk Maps: , Jangungal Mon 14 Munyang (Guthega Power Station) – Schlink Hut – Saddle – Schlink Hut – Main Range – Sep Whites Hut – Horse Camp – Munyang. Q A different adventure along the Main Range not only in winter however also using snowshoes. This area is normally visited by cross-country skiers at this time of the year however we will also venture out into the white wilderness to take in this unique and spectacular opportunity. Route may vary according to conditions. Snowshoes are available for hire in Jindabyne. Hut accommodation is not guaranteed (unlikely) so a 4-season tent, warm sleeping bag/mat and clothing will be required. Daily distance is approx. 12-15km with +/- 500m elevation however will feel a lot more. Party limit exists. Fit and well prepared Prospective Members who have completed at least one Q-walk with SBW are welcome. Grade: M333-Q

Sun 13 Sep Kosciuszko NP - Lodge-Based Ski Touring Day Trips Maps: Perisher Valley, Kosciuszko - Sun 27 Lodge-based ski day trips from the Southern Alps Ski Lodge at Charlotte Pass. Enjoy the luxury of full Sep board, dry boots, skiing from the door, day trips to places like Lake Cootapatamba, Mt Kosciuszko, Mt Townsend, Mt Lee, Mt Carruthers, Mt Twynam, Watsons Crags, Blue Lake, Club Lake, Mt Stilwell, Twin Valleys, etc, or sharpen up your teles on the lifts. (Operation of lifts at Charlotte Pass resort dependent on snow cover.) Experience the outrageously cooperative spring snow and choose the grade to suit yourself. As of the time of publication of this programme the lodge will be open in the period 13-27 September. Both weeks are currently booked out but his could change because of travel restrictions for interstate participants. Cost for the week is $560 for SASC members, $700 for non-members of SASC, fully catered. Great value for full board. Deposit of 50% required on booking, final payment required by 26 August. Based on health guidelines in place in early June, special distancing and other requirements will need to be observed. Contact the leader for further details. Grade: M222, Vary the grade to suit yourself

Sat 3 Oct - Gardens of Stone NP, Wollemi NP - Red Rocks traverse and Pantoneys Crown Maps: Ben Bullen, Fri 9 Oct Cullen Bullen Not able to go away for extended walks? Let's do it in our own backyard. Newnes - Point Nicholson - Mt Dawson - Point March - Woolpack Gap - Hughes Defile - Mt Stewart - Pantoneys Crown - Baal Bone Point - Baal Bone Gap - Mt McLean - Cape Horn. Beautiful rock formations, grand views, camp caves and open campsites, some high camps, scrambling and exposure will all be experienced. Stages and finish point not set in stone: we'll explore along the way, see potential car shuffle. Aiming for 6 days but could stretch to 7 or 8. Pace of very experienced 8-year-old co-leader. Grade: M233E

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 4

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sun 11 Oct North Great North Walk Maps: Dooralong, Morriset, , Murrays Run, Quorrobolong, - Fri 16 Oct Wallsend Hardly a weekend goes by without a walk on some part of the southern half of the Great North Walk. I have walked all the sections as far as Yarramalong, but never ventured further. Well, this time I plan to go north from Yarramalong all the way to Newcastle - 121 km. Accommodation will be a mix of camping and pubs, and there will be the option of doing the whole thing with just a day pack. (The cost of this little luxury is putting up with daily car shuffles). Grade: L221

Sun 18 Oct Warrumbungle NP, Mt Kaputar NP - Explore Warrumbungle and Mt Kaputar NPs Maps: - Thu 22 Coonabarabran, Tooraweena, Kaputar, Coryah (TBC) Oct Looking for interest in a trip to reportedly two of the best bushwalking areas in Northern NSW, with steep mountains, wide views, and ancient volcanic peaks. Exploratory trip, dates and walking negotiable to group interest. Contact me if you're interested and maybe we can agree an itinerary. Hoping to see the attractions but also explore away from crowds (overnight walks). Be prepared to carry water. Mt Kaputar NP was burnt during the last bushfire season. The parks are unfamiliar to me. Allow 3/4 day travel each way outside the dates listed. Trip will only proceed if there is enough interest and the right conditions eventuate. Grade: M232

Sat 7 Nov - Hume & Hovell Walking Track Maps: Yass, Warroo, Bookham, Couragago, Childowla, Wee Jasper, Sat 14 Nov Couragago, Tumorrama, Lacmalac Q Yass to Tumut -151 km. A full pack walk of 7 days, with a food drop in the middle. Following in the steps of the chaps who did the first overland trip to (actually Geelong) in 1824. The countryside is hilly and attractive, though there are quite extensive sections of timber plantations. We can stay in hotels at each end, and there is one caravan park, but otherwise we will camp in the specially constructed Track campsites. Grade: L212-Q

Sat 26 Jun - Nitmiluk NP, Litchfield NP - Jatbula Trail, Katherine Gorge, Tabletop Track Sun 11 Jul This is a combination of three walks, all new to me. The Jatbula Trail offers a unique cultural and 2021 wilderness experience. We will follow a route travelled by generations of Jawoyn people from Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Expect stunning scenery, waterfalls and Jawoyn rock art. We will then explore the Katherine Gorge system and surrounding escarpment. The Tabletop Track walk takes us through woodlands, across creek lines and to scenic waterfalls and pools. Each day, we will enjoy abundant reward for effort. Experienced multi-day walkers only this time.[Trip Full] Grade: M223E

Regular Activities Tuesdays Stair Training at The Rocks and/or Please note at times there will be alternative leaders for this activity. Check the SBW Integrated Thursdays Program for the particular evening’s details. This is an opportunity to build fitness and strength for those upcoming walks with some midweek interval training. We'll climb 7 to 9 sets of stairs from 1 to 4 times each. You decide how many times and the pace that each set of stairs is climbed. Some walk up the stairs, others jog and a few bound. Between each set of stairs we walk together and chat whilst enjoying the night time scenery of The Rocks and Barangaroo.

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 5

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020

Spring Program Activities

Mid Week Tue 1 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - B2B6 - Mt Kuring-gai to St Ives Maps: Hornsby The sixth leg of our City to Hawkesbury adventure however another reverse leg making our way from with a little up and over to the headwaters of Creek. Public transport at both ends. Joint walk with Bush Club. Grade: L221

Thu 3 Sep Garigal NP - + Bantry Bay This walk offers pleasant bush tracks and decent views in return for a medium effort and several moderate climbs. From Seaforth Oval we will enter the west side of the Manly Dam circuit, follow it anti-clockwise to cross the dam wall and walk the recently re-opened lakeside track to the Track. Here a short climb brings us to the pipeline and Warringah Aquatic Centre. We cross the footbridge then head down through Forestville Park to Currie Road Trail, up Natural Arch Track and Bluff Trail up to Bluff Lookout. The Bluff Track and a final ascent up Timber Getters Track take us back to the cars. (Joint walk: SBW and The Bush Club) Grade: M211

Fri 4 Sep Wollemi NP - Easy Ridge to Tootie Creek Maps: Mountain Lagoon Q Park the car at GR 724 932 on Mountain Lagoon Road. Walk north along Easy Ridge, then a smaller spur, descend south west to around GR 717 940. Continue towards Tootie Creek, then walk downstream till about GR 718 947. Climb back to Easy Ridge and walk to the cars. About 6 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S223E-Q

5-6 September Sat 5 Sep Centennial Park - Basic Skills Workshop Maps: Q Basic Navigation, Bushcraft and First Aid skills required for Prospective Members seeking to advance to Full Membership status. Experienced Members will be on hand to facilitate this full day event. Numbers will be limited and priority will be given to Prospective Members who have already completed walks with SBW – please provide walk history details, personal and emergency contact details when nominating. Prospective Members will be required to bring their own compass due to Covid-19 compliance requirements.

Sat 5 Sep Garigal NP - St Ives to Lindfield Maps: Walk starts at Cascades Trail in St Ives. We then go via the Cascades, Governor Phillip and Lyrebird tracks to Davidson Park Reserve. We will then cross the Roseville Bridge and join Two Creeks Track to Lindfield Station. Public transportation at both ends. Alternatively, car shuffle can be organised if avoiding public transportation is preferred. Grade: M211

Sat 5 Sep Blue Mountains NP - Traverse of the Gods Maps: Mt Wilson Q My favourite walk. Not overly long or difficult, but some immediate exposure and moving quite close to cliff edges. One bum slide along a narrow ledge and one section of narrow track with a sheer drop to one side. Glorious views across the Grose. We will add a few other gods by starting the walk at Frank Hurley Head. Off-track for about half of the walk. Grade: M223E-Q

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 6

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sat 5 Sep - Wollemi NP - Red Rocks Maps: Ben Bullen Sun 6 Sep Newnes - Little Capertee Creek - Point Nicholson - explore towards Red Rocks/Point Anderson - camp Point Nicholson - traverse towards Mt Dawson - exit via Little Capertee Creek, or ridge to S Walk in to a balcony campsite on the first day, and spend the afternoon exploring the Red Rocks to the north, possibly as far as Point Anderson. On the second day we will do part of the traverse to Mt Dawson, which is a spectacular mix of cliffs, chasms, pagodas, pinnacles and canyons, including the Pagoda of Death! Possibly we'll take a new, somewhat exploratory, route out! Plenty of rock scrambling, some a bit exposed. Mostly off track, scrub is generally light. Grade: S232E, 18km ±400m

Sat 5 Sep - Kosciuszko NP - Developing basic X- country skiing skills Maps: Kosciuzko 1:50000 Sun 6 Sep A second ski trip as part of a development plan to increase awareness/experience/skills in backcountry skiing skills over the next 3 years. 2020 is Year 1. The article in the July newsletter talks more about the plan. The content for this trip will be similar to first trip in July and preference will be given to participants from the July trip to build on their skills. Here is your chance to consolidate basic cross country ski trips. Depending on the group it will be either overnight in the snow or day trips and camping near the car. I favour 2xday trips so that you only carry day packs and improve skiing skills rather than improve survival skills. There will be some criteria. There is logic to my madness and strictness.  A maximum party size of 6 plus leader.  you must have cross country skied before - at least 8 days over the last few years.  no binding heavier than NNN-BC! Cable/telemark/AT bindings and associated heavy gear are not accepted.  you must be able to move comfortably all day with rests/stops/chats along the way. Cross country skiing can fatigue people quickly if you are not used to it. Sort of similar to off track bushwalking.  you will be responsible for your own gear including snow camping gear (Rhythm Sport in Cooma is great to rent skis/boots etc.....  resilience where to go. At this stage it is unknown where/what will be open or available in KNPark. Unknown snow level. Thus a decision for location made close to the actual w/e to ensure the best experience.

What will you experience? It will be a Tips Tricks and Technique trip focusing on learning to move with sound skiing skills developing fluency, fluidity and rhythm to move longer distance with less effort. Discussions on techniques, huts, routes, various access points, history, good areas to check, snow camping, whatever ...... Build sound knowledge base of basic skills. How will you benefit??? I joined SBW recently and live in . I have instructed/guided for 14 years as well as over 60 seasons of skiing in and overseas. Mainly interested in backcountry, expeditions, light day trips, long day trips, ultramarathon racing, mentoring and must not forget the expensive side of skiing => having fun on the alpine slopes occasionally. Hopefully over time, a core group within SBW will develop and indulge in backcountry ski trips in the next few years. Do consider the old adage "if you can walk you can ski" is incorrect. Fundamental skills are important. See you there. Grade: M211

Sun 6 Sep Popran NP - Mt White and Big Jims Point Maps: Gunderman Old Pacific Highway, Mt White - The Pipeline Track - Big Jims Point. Return via a different route. This walk is just north of , to the west of the expressway. Enjoy spectacular views from the clifftops high above the river. Wildflowers galore! There are three off-track sections involving steep ascents and descents, but it is open bushland in each case. You must have your own car to come on this walk, as we will not do any car-sharing. A rarely visited area. Grade: M212, 12 km

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 7

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Mid Week Tue 8 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - B2B7 - Berowra Loop Maps: Cowan, Hornsby 1:25,000 The seventh leg of our City to Hawkesbury adventure and, again, in reverse with a little more added in as an optional extra. We will commence from Berowra and head up Lyrebird Gully to Mt Kuring- gai before crossing over and walking back to Berowra via Cowan Creek and Waratah Bay. There the option to bale out at Mt Kuring-gai should anyone not wish to complete the full loop. Public transport at both ends. Joint walk with Bush Club. Grade: L221

Wed 9 Sep Wollemi NP - Nirvana Caves and more Maps: Mountain Lagoon Q Park at GR 727 932 on Mountain Lagoon Road. Walk north on an old fire trail, then off track to Nirvana Caves at GR 742 964. Next, cross Nirvana Ravine and traverse underneath the cliff line to the south west, looking for more caves. Exit back to the ridge at GR 732 957, or GR 728 952, or further south, depending on time. Once on top, follow the ridge back to the car. About 12 km. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S223E-Q

12-13 September Fri 11 Sep - Blue Mountains NP - Katoomba to Black Range return Maps: Jenolan, Katoomba Sun 13 Sep Following the Six Foot Track. Start from Katoomba station, one night in Alum Creek camping ground, next day return walk to Black Range with day pack bag and then stay another night in . The following day return to Katoomba. Grade: L231

Sat 12 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Cowan - Brooklyn – Cowan Maps: Cowan The good ol’ C2B but doubled (so approx 13km x 2). Several steep climbs of 100 – 200m each. Pace: fast and furious. Few stops (if any), between end points. Fit prospectives welcome to apply. (Joint walk SBW and The Bush Club) Grade: L321

Sat 12 Sep Royal NP - Otford Loop Walk Maps: Otford, Tourist Map Otford Carpark – Burning Palms – North Era – Garie Beach – Mid Era Ridge – Garrawarra Farm – Garrawarra Ridge – Otford Car Park. A superb walk in the Royal NP that avoids the crowds with two sensational lookouts with beautiful coastal views. A nice introductory walk for new prospectives. Joint Walk with Bush Club. Please contact leader by Tuesday 8 September. Grade: M221

Sat 12 Sep NP - Wondabyne to Woy Woy via Spion Kop Maps: A variation on the usual Wondabyne to Woy Woy, changing up the second half. Pace on the faster side, limited breaks. Includes an off track section (a little bit steep in places) and also a short stretch (~500m) along a road shoulder. Wildflowers should be good. If timing and conditions allow, and there is interest, option to finish up by dropping down into Waterfall Bay and rock hopping around. Station to station walk. Grade: L312

Sat 12 Sep - Blue Mountains NP - Wentworth Cave Maps: Springwood, Kurrajong Sun 13 Sep Walk from Faulconbridge down to the via Faulconbridge Ridge, camp at Wentworth Q Cave. Ascend via Linden Ridge. Rugged, beautiful country. Ascent is challenging, leader will carry a tape. Last two times we returned after dark, early start on Sunday! Not really suitable for prospectives. Grade: M233E-Q

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 8

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sat 12 Sep - Blue Mountains NP - Wentworth Falls to Woodford via Maps: Jamison Sun 13 Sep I plan to walk out along the fire trail to the old Wirraway crash site (approximately Aeroplane Hills at the top of the Jamison map), and go off track from there to the Ingar campsite. It's about 4km and there are two creeks to be crossed, so who knows how heavy the going will be. Camp at Ingar. Next day take a look around the camp ground surrounds (Mt Bedford and views over Bedford Ck), before walking down 200 m to Bedford Ck, then back up 200 m to Woodford (foot pad, fire trail and road). Total distance about 24 km. Grade: M222

Sat 12 Sep - Blue Mountains NP - Merrigal Creek/Blue Pup Spur [TRIP FULL] Maps: Jenolan Sun 13 Sep Rescheduled from May. Day 1: From Dunphy’s Camping Area over Ironmonger Hill, down Q Ironmonger Spur (descent 600 metres) to the Coxs River, down the Coxs River to camp near Merrigal Creek. Day 2: From Blue Pup Spur to Blue Dog Ridge (ascent 600 metres), to Cattle Dog Ridge, down Cattle Dog Ridge to Breakfast Creek and hence out by Breakfast Creek and Carlons Creek (gradual 400m climb). [Trip Full – rescheduled from earlier in the year] Grade: M232-Q

Sat 12 Sep - Blue Mountains NP - Splendour Rock Maps: Jenolan Sun 13 Sep A visit to one of the most iconic sites in the Wild Dogs. Splendour Rock is a place of breathtaking Q beauty but also absolute solemnity. Green Gully - Carlons Creek - Black Horse Ridge - Mt Dingo - Splendour Rock (camp) - Cattle Dog Ridge - Green Gully. Water carry to campsite required, but hopefully from reasonably close. Grade: M232-Q

Sat 12 Sep - Wollemi NP, Nullo SF - and Hool ‘Em Boy Point Maps: Mount Pomany, Coricudgy, Mon 14 Growee, Olinda Sep A 3-day pack walk. Day 1 - Park on Nullo Mountain Road at GR 398 740, walk Nullo East Trail and get Q down into Widden Brook at about GR 404 730. Continue down Widden Brook and camp depending on the progress, probably at Coricudgy Creek junction. Day 2 – Walk down Widden Brook, take water and climb towards Hool ‘Em Boy Point. Camp at one of several panoramic points, depending on the progress. Day 3 – continue up Nullo Mountain, join with Nullo East Trail and re-connect with the cars. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 30 km. Grade: M333E-Q

Sun 13 Sep Marramarra NP - Smugglers and Marramarra Ridge circuit Maps: Cowan Smugglers Ridge was named as it was apparently part a route to smuggle rum to the early European colony. This circuit track is made up mostly of fire trails and with a visit to Marramarra Creek. There is a steepish ascent to or descent down Marramarra Ridge (depending if we go clockwise or anticlockwise) with the expected reward being blooming wildflowers along the trail. Looking to walk at a pace that is between a 2-3 fitness level. There is little public transport in the area, so private transport is required to get to the trail head. Grade: M322

Sun 13 Sep Sydney Harbour NP & surround - Manly Wharf to Circular Quay Maps: Manly to Bondi 2 Day Walk The best way to see Sydney! Manly Wharf - Manly to Spit Bridge track - Balmoral Beach - Bradleys Head - Taronga Zoo - Cremorne Point - Harbour Bridge. Fast paced walk with short stops and exit points if needed. Grade: X321

Mid Week Mon 14 Port Stephens - Midweek at Port Stephens Maps: Myall Lakes Sep - Fri 18 Stay in cabins and optional activities Sep Grade: S111

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 9

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Thu 17 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Taffys Rock Maps: Cowan The walk to Taffys Rock will begin at Cowan Station and initially follow the Great North Walk down the gently sloping, forested gully to Jerusalem Bay, a lovely spot for a short rest. A sharp climb takes us to the point we leave the GNW and head east along an overgrown track that follows Govett Ridge for around 4km. The track becomes quite rough along the later part until we swing north to Taffys Rock. Some excellent views, an interesting tessellated dome and a rest on the large sandstone outcrop that is Taffys Rock will be our reward. We return the way we came to Cowan Station. (Joint walk: SBW and The Bush Club) Grade: M222

Fri 18 Sep Wollemi NP - Green Gully Cliff Walk Maps: Ben Bullen, Mount Morgan Q From Newnes follow the Pipeline Track to the saddle at approximately GR 447 274. Leave the track and head north along the cliff edge for about 2.5 km to GR 437 295 and then attempt to walk out to the end of the spur at GR 435 300. Exposure, pagodas, rugged terrain. Possible return via Petries Gully. About 14 km. [Subject to Pipeline Track re-opening] Grade: M333E-Q

19-20 September Sat 19 Sep Royal NP - Royal National Park Maps: Royal National Park Waterfall Railway Station - Uloola Track - Audley - Rawson Road - Loftus Railway Station This is all on track and a joint walk with Catholic Bushwalking Club. Grade: M221

Sat 19 Sep Morton NP - Mt Carrialoo Saddle and Yarrunga Creek Maps: Bundanoon Q Kangaroo Valley, from 101 Things to Do at Coolana McPhails Trail - Mt Carrialoo - Yarrunga Creek along - Griffins Fire Trail - Jacks Corner Wild and beautiful. Lots of off-track, some rock hopping. Grade: M223-Q

Sat 19 Sep Mugii Murum-ban SCA - The Airly Frustum and Airly Turret Slot Maps: Glen Alice Q Find out for yourself why this unique area must be protected for future generations. Park cars at Airly Gap, then climb south east, inspecting historic graffiti and Aboriginal art sites along the way. Negotiate a series of pagodas and slots, including Genowlan Pinch, to arrive at the spectacular Airly Frustum. Continue climbing to the point above Airly Turret Slot and the stunning view. Next, visit Mine in the Sky with its historic infrastructure. From here, proceed to explore the bottom of Airly Turret Slot. Reconnect with the vehicles. About 7 km. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S223E-Q

Sat 19 Sep Royal NP - Palona Brook Wander Maps: Otford Q A continuation of the exploration of Palona Brook catchment. This time we will leave the track from Waterfall to head up to Karani Ridge and try and pick up the Karani Track. This will take us to Colbee Knob and then we will leave the track again to skirt around the head of Palona Brook to Garie Trig. From there its back on track to return to Waterfall. It its wet then prepare for leeches. Grade: L222-Q, at least 20 km

Sat 19 Sep - Gardens of Stone NP - Pantoneys Crown & Point Cameron Maps: Ben Bullen Sun 20 Sep Cape Horn Fire Trail - Baal Bone Gap - Baal Bone Point - Pantoneys Crown - Point Cameron - Q McLeans Pass - Cape Horn Fire Trail We hopefully will not take the (very scrambly/exposed) route the leader has previously used for Point Cameron, so the ascent of Point Cameron is exploratory for leader! All the good stuff: exposure, scrambling, pack-passing, off-track. Grade: M233E-Q

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 10

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sun 20 Sep Nattai NP - Russells Needle [TRIP FULL] Maps: Hill Top Q A difficult walk, but hopefully one that will provide wide views of the Nattai Valley if we reach our destination. Route: Wattle Ridge - Point Hill - Slott Way - - Russells Needle - return same route. Half the walk will be off-track with uncertain conditions following recent bushfires. The climb up Russells Needle will be unfamiliar to me and might involve exposed scrambling, therefore the walk may be unsuitable for some, but we will turn around if we cannot find a safe route. Likely to be a long day with a faster than average pace to complete the walk in time. Trip full currently, waitlist applicants welcome Grade: L232E-Q

Sun 20 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Berowra to Brooklyn Maps: Cowan Berowra Station - Berowra Waters - Cowan - Jerusalem Bay - Brooklyn Dam - Brooklyn Station (27km). A fast paced walk with lots of ascents and descents and a possible pub stop at the end. Accessible by transport. Grade: L331, 27 km

26-27 September Sat 26 Sep Dharug NP - Electric Mountain Bike Ride Maps: Mangrove Come on, it's time to come out of the closet and admit you own an electric bike. Base route 30km with options for extensions along the old convict built road. Wiz down Dubbo Gully, power up the Simpson Track, take the Wat Loop past the Buddhist Monastery, fly down Donnys Trail, return Dubbo Gully. 19th century Mangrove Creek cemetery, remnants of 1820s stone bridge, contact art drawing of a ship, lots of regenerated bush after the fires. If young, you will be allowed to attend on a regular, unpowered MTB.

Sat 26 Sep Blue Mountains NP - Mitchells Creek Maps: Jamison, Katoomba Q Devils Hole - Six Foot Track - Mitchells Creek - Spike Treed below Fools Paradise - Fools Paradise - Mitchells Creek flows off the scrubby Fools Paradise area of Narrow Neck into the . While a number of the passes of Narrow Neck follow a gully for part of their route, Mitchells Creek is the only one that follows the watercourse for the entire pass. There are a couple of longish sections on fire trail by distance, but timewise much of the route is off track. Expect everything: exposure, road bashing, scrub, climbing up a spiked tree, more scrub, getting lost a few times, amazing views and sore bodies the next few days. In short, all the good stuff. You need to be fit and have a sense of adventure to enjoy this walk. Grade: M233E-Q

Sat 26 Sep Wollemi NP - From Grand Balcony to Minotaur Lair via The Labyrinth Maps: Ben Bullen Q Park one car at GR 430 228 on Wolgan Road, then drive to Newnes and park another car at locked gate GR 420 250. Walk up Capertee Creek Valley and climb the Grand Balcony, continue to Eldorado Traverse and Eldorado Slots. Then use the Ariadne Thread to descend into Minotaur Lair for the return to the first car. About 10 km. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: M333E-Q

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 11

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sun 27 Sep Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Bobbin Head Loop EXTRA Maps: Hornsby Another variation on the Bobbin Head Loop (somewhat different from my last), this walk will include some extra off-track for those who want to work on basic navigation skills. We start at North Wahroonga, head briefly east on the Gibberagong Track but almost immediately head off-track northwards down to the upper reach of Cockle Creek, cross the creek and ascend steeply the spur opposite to reach Chase Trail and Kalkari Track. We follow the track down to Bobbin Head enjoying some fine views over Ku-ring-gai Chase and Cowan Creek. After a short stop at Bobbin Head, we will return with a second off-track climb along the ridge south of the Gibberagong Track, then descend the steep Murrua Trail and complete our loop by heading west on the Gibberagong Track back to North Wahroonga. (Joint walk: SBW and The Bush Club) Grade: M212

October Long Weekend: 3-5 October Sat 3 Oct Blue Mountains NP - Nepean Gorge Ridgeline Maps: Penrith Fairlight Road Mulgoa - The Rock Lookout - Rileys Mountain Lookout - Nepean Narrows Lookout - return via the outward route. Believe it or not, the Blue Mountains National Park comes over to the east side of south of Penrith to include a long high ridgeline above Nepean Gorge. There are fabulous views from the ridge down to the river and the gorge, and across to the hills of the mountains. Note that to come on this walk you need to bring your own car, because we will not do any car-sharing. Grade: M111, 14 km

Sat 3 Oct - Morton NP - Coolana / Mt Scanzi Maps: Bundanoon, Burrier Sun 4 Oct A weekend Q walk from Coolana. Q Dot Butler Conservation Reserve - Tallowa Dam - Mt Scanzi - Bugong Gap Party limit Grade: M232-Q

Sat 3 Oct - Morton NP - The perfect time to visit Quiltys! Maps: Endrick Mon 5 Oct Nerriga - Red Grounds Track - historic Quiltys Pass - Bora Ground (time permitting) - Endrick Trig - Binnari Pass - short cut across the - Red Grounds Track - Nerriga / Now is the time to traverse Quiltys via a number of rarely used passes. The normal impenetrable scrub has been incinerated, this SHOULD allow us easy access across rarely visited sections of one of my favorite mountains! Parts of this walk are exploratory so please come armed with your sense of adventure! Grade: M223E

Sat 3 Oct - Royal NP - Part 1 of the Great South Coast Walk Maps: , Otford, Appin Mon 5 Oct 63km from Bundeena wharf to Wollongong following the coast line. Part of the Great South Coast Walk. One night camp in North Era in the Royal National Park, second night in Bulli camping ground. Highlights are traversing Royal NP, walking the edges of sandstone cliffs and exploring the forest and plants of the Illawara Escarpment. Part of the walk is exploratory to the leader. Grade: L222

Sat 3 Oct - Blue Mountains NP - Bilpin to Leura Maps: Mt Wilson, Kurrajong Mon 5 Oct Donna Track - Grose River - Engineers Ridge - Mt Hay Range - Mt Hay Q The complete traverse of Mt Hay Range. All off track, great scenery, some challenging rock hopping, scrambling and a river crossing on day 1, otherwise not an overly difficult walk. Two long days out of three. Will require a long car shuffle or the hiring of a mini van with driver with shared cost. Adventurous people only. Party limit 8. Grade: L223-Q

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 12

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sat 3 Oct - Wollemi NP - Wollemi canyoning Maps: Rock Hill, Wollangambe Tue 6 Oct Oct LWE + 1 day. 4 x day trips with car camping. Day 1 – Stuntman and Stunt Double canyons. Day 2 – Dead Log and Luna Park canyons returning via Hailstones Retreat. Day 3 – Arthurs canyon (from the north - TBC). Day 4 – TBC. Partly exploratory for leader. Experienced canyoners only (& limit of 5). Drive to Newnes Forest Plateau on Friday night. Grade: S222E

Sat 3 Oct - Morton NP - Budawangs High Camp + Explore - Mt Tarn Maps: Budawang Sketch map Mon 5 Oct Morton NP (Budawangs) - Wog Wog - Burrumbeet - Mt Tarn - High Camp - Explore Mt Tarn - Return via same route Following my Budawangs trips in 2018; I'm excited to return to Mt Tarn and another High Camp trip. As expected with high camps, participants will be well rewarded for their efforts with views/vistas of the surrounding areas; in particular, dawn, sunset and the heavens under a Micro-Full Moon. Water will need to be hauled to our high camp (though some may be located atop Mt Tarn); but not guaranteed!) Plan to explore South Western Rocky outcrops, including 'Anvil Rock'. A sense of the "Budawangs unknown" is all that is required to enjoy this escapade for the adventurous SBW'r. I plan to car-camp the Friday night before trip. Early start from Wog Wog; 0730hrs. Part Exploratory for leader; with exposure, limited party size, off-track, scrub and associated exploratory parlava Grade: M222E

Sun 4 Oct Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Off-Track @ Duffy’s Wharf, Cowan Trail, Long Trail Maps: Hornsby Q This walk offers useful navigation and off-track practice at an intermediate level. From Booralie Rd, Duffys Forest, we descend Duffy’s Wharf Track, then near its end we head off-track northwards to the ridge top. We follow the ridge towards its point, until we go northeast off-track again to cross an unnamed gully and climb to Cowan Trail. We follow this trail some way, then drop into the next gully and again climb northeast to Long Trail, where we can rest and compare scratches and torn clothing. Our hardest work now behind us, Long Trail can be followed north to Peach Trees and finally back south to the cars. Expect a day of scrambling, route-finding, backtracking and occasional cursing, interspersed with self-congratulation when we reach each marked track. Applicants must be fit, and comfortable with moderate/dense bush and moderate scrambling. (Joint walk with The Bush Club) Grade: M323-Q

Sun 4 Oct SCA - South Coast walk Maps: Appin, Bulli Q Thirroul Railway Station - Bulli Lookout - Sublime Point Lookout - Forest Walking Track - Wodi Wodi Walking Track - Stanwell Park Railway Station This is a joint walk with the Catholic Bushwalkiong club. Grade: M231-Q, a steep climb at the start.

Mid Week Thu 8 Oct Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - 6. Bobbin Head Loop Basic Maps: Hornsby A classic 13 km bush circuit on creek-side tracks steeped in canopy-filtered light and irrepressible bird song. From the park entrance on Bobbin Head Road, we descend steeply the Sphinx Track down to Cowan Creek, which we follow northward along Warrimoo Track to Bobbin Head. The Gibberagong Track takes us to Gibberagong Waterhole, from where we climb Murrua Track and Murrua Side Trail to return to the park gate. Total 350m ascent. Pace medium-fast. (Joint walk: SBW and The Bush Club) Grade: M212

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 13

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Fri 9 Oct Wollemi NP - From Itchenstoke To Tootie Creek and Back Maps: Mountain Lagoon Q Park the car at GR 685 943 on Mount Tootie Road. Take a long ridge going east all the way to Tootie Creek at GR 712 932. Walk downstream to GR 713 943, then up a ridge going south west and back to the cars. About 10 km. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S333E-Q

10-11 October Fri 9 Oct - Blue Mountains NP - Callendina Loop 2 - Linden Maps: Springwood, Kurrajong Sun 11 Oct Well. This is the second attempt to do this walk. Have added a night to make this a 3-day, 2-night Q adventure/challenge. No guarantee of success. We will walk out and fight the scrub of Linden Ridge before descending to Wentworth Creek (camp). Next day up the Linden "back ladder" and out to the knoll overlooking the Callendina Loop. Drop down to Wentworth Creek (camp). Day 3 - back to Linden via Dawes Ridge. Off-track with exposure probable. Grade: M223E-Q

Sat 10 Oct Blue Mountains NP - Birrabang Brook Maps: Mt Wilson Located off the . A fun walk down pretty Birrabang Brook with yabbies and canyon like features. Short but exciting slippery dip in Better Offer. Wet feet guaranteed and worse if you fall in. This area usually has heaps of wildflowers including waratahs in October but many will be missing this year after the fires. On the other hand, we might see the pink flannel flower which only comes out after fires. We will also visit Dalpura Head for grand views over the . About 5 hours. Grade: M222

Sat 10 Oct Ku-ring-gai Chase NP - Cowan to Brooklyn Maps: Cowan Cowan Station – Jerusalem Bay – Campbells Creek – Fire Trail – Brooklyn Dam – Brooklyn Station. Joint Walk with Bush Club. An interesting and challenging walk with beautiful inter-tidal estuarine areas, plenty of ups and downs including two steep climbs known to Oxfam participants, ridgetop walking and some stunning views of central coast waterways. And it has a pub at the end for a deserved drink and a train to get us home. Climbs totalling 310m and downs of 450m. Please contact leader by Tuesday 6 October. Grade: M221, Medium grade - 12 km

Sat 10 Oct - Blue Mountains NP - Knights Deck and Splendour Rock Maps: Jenolan Sun 11 Oct From Galong Gate (if the new bridge is in) or Galong Creek (if not), over Tin Pot and down to Breakfast Creek then up to Knights Deck. Along Blue Dog Ridge to camp. Next day we can leave some gear in our tents and head to Splendour Rock with light packs. Back to camp, pick up our gear and walk out. We'll probably need to carry water up to camp from Breakfast Creek on the first day. Small group. Grade: M232

Sat 10 Oct - Mount Royal NP - Mount Royal & surrounds Maps: Carrowbrook Sun 11 Oct Mount Royal NP (not to be confused with the Royal NP) sits to the west of Barrington Tops. Primary plan will be to ascend Mount Royal, follow the range, and descend Fal Pinnacle. This builds on a visit I made to this area in winter. Possibility of beginning with some time along Carrow Brook. You can expect a diverse range of vegetation, spectacular scenery and a section of narrow, rocky, exposed spine along Mount Royal. Includes sections that are slippery & steep, as well as some scrambling & exposure. Possibility of scrub. Mix of track, off track & fire trail. Given distance from Sydney (about 3.5 hours) participants may want to travel up Friday night. Grade: M233E

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 14

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Mid Week Fri 16 Oct Wollemi NP - Glen Trig Maps: Mount Morgan, Gospers Mountain Q Early start. From the Glen Davis Camping Ground, climb to the top of Glen Trig via the canyon route. Return the same way. Stunning views of the Wolgan and Capertee Valleys. Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 6 km. Grade: S333E-Q

17-18 October Sat 17 Oct Brisbane Water NP - Cogra Bay to Wondabyne Maps: Cowan, Gunderman Q Cogra Bay is small foreshore community excluded from Brisbane Water NP. There may be a feasible route to Pindar Cave but it will all be off-track, about 5 hours. After Pindar we'll take the easy route back to Wondabyne railway station. There will be a good deal of scrub-bashing, and we may be able to find some Aboriginal rock art. Part of the route is through private property and permission has been arranged with the owner. Access to Cogra Bay is by water taxi ($$). Partly exploratory. Grade: M223-Q

Sat 17 Oct Berowra Valley NP - Cowan to Berowra Station Maps: Cowan Cowan Station - Joe Crafts Creek - Great North Walk to Berowra Waters - Naa Badu Lookout - Berowra Station All on tracks and fire trail with some rocky sections. The walk includes some challenging hills providing great training for Oxfam walkers and some beautiful and spectacular views. Plenty of ups and downs with 370m up and 380m down. Good public transport at either end. Joint Walk with Bush Club. Please contact leader by Tuesday 13 October. Grade: M221

Sat 17 Oct - Morton NP - Discovery Cave - direct! Maps: Sassafras, Nerriga Sun 18 Oct Ettrema Tops Trail - Rolfe 779 - 710 spot height - Passages of Time - Discovery Cave - Passages of Time - Headwaters of Moore Creek - unnamed saddle to Rolfe 779 - Ettrema Tops Fire Trail The normally impenetrable scrub of this area has been burnt, allowing for short and interesting routes into the Ettrema Wilderness Grade: M222

Sat 17 Oct - Wollemi NP - Colo Lazy Liloing Adventure under Super New Moon Maps: Six Brothers Sun 18 Oct Wollemi NP - Culuol FT - Crawfords Lookout - Crawfords Pass (steep) - Wollemi Crk - Awesome - Camp - More Awesome Colo River, Bucks Pass 6 - Culuol FT I have to thank fellow SBW'r; Paul Barton for getting me into this area, though don't be fooled with the title of this trip; the descent and ascent are an effort; depending on your skillset. Camping on the sandy banks of the Colo cannot be described, but only experienced; this is what draws me back to this alluring wilderness year after year...want a drink of water? simply submerge your face in the river! With a Super New Moon I hope from our sandy-bank camp that the the heavens will "open-up for us"; with stars abound. Regarding logistics; a canvas lilo is mandatory with puncture repair kit; Wetsuits optional. As with ALL liloing; its imperative to have all camping gear, clothing, food; in quality water proof bags with pack-weight on the lighter side. You must be a competent swimmer and capable rock-hopper and rock-scrambler to enjoy this fully ;) Some exposure, off-track and scrub. Grade: M232E

Sun 18 Oct Sydney Harbour - Circular Quay to Maps: Manly to Bondi Walk: Day 2 Second day of the Manly to Bondi walk: Circular Quay - Potts Point - Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay - Dover Heights - Bondi Beach. Fast paced walk with exit points if needed. Grade: X321, 38 km

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 15

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sun 18 Oct Royal NP - Heathcote-Audley Circuit Maps: Port Hacking A walk through woodland and heath in the western part of Royal NP. Wildlfowers should be prolific. From Heathcote we head down to Audley and then pick up the Uloola Track to Uloola Falls, Fromthere we follow the Karloo Track to Karloo Pool (swimming an option) and then its back uphill to Heathcote. Some nice views in places from the ridge tops. Grade: M221, about 15 km

24-25 October Fri 23 Oct - Wollemi NP - Bylong Labyrinth Adventure Maps: Growee, Talooby Sun 25 Oct A 3-day pack or base camp walk. Details to be advised. Q Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: M333E-Q

Sat 24 Oct - Blue Mountains NP - Wild Dogs - a Granite Falls loop walk Maps: Jenolan Sun 25 Oct Yes, we have been to Granite Falls on Merrigal Creek in the Wild Dogs - a spectacular place. But the Q falls are too steep to climb down. Is there another way to do a loop walk down to (or up from) the Coxs? Possibly Brindle Dog and then down to the Coxs? But the contours looks tight going up Brindle Dog from Merrigal Creek. Come explore the Wild Dogs! It will be an adventure-filled weekend, wherever we end up. Grade: M233E-Q

Mid Week Fri 30 Oct Wollemi NP - More of The Labyrinth Maps: Ben Bullen Q Park at Wolgan Road and go through Minotaur Lair to Point Sol. Continue east, then north, exploring high pagodas around the cliff edge. Then walk west to the central spine and have a look at the blind slot at GR 422 233. Head along the spine of the ridge and find a way down to the next level towards west at about GR 420 236. The idea is to explore the next 250 m of pagodas and slots, until 4170 E. Return either via Ariadne Thread or down to Minotaur Lair, if there is no time. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 8 km. Grade: S333E-Q

31 October-1 November Sat 31 Oct Newnes SF - Cathedral Cave and Diamond Cavern Maps: Cullen Bullen Q This is a walk in the unprotected part of the Gardens of Stone region, currently threatened by coal mining. We will visit two stunning locations – Cathedral Cave and Diamond Cavern, starting and finishing on a firetrail off Sunnyside Ridge Road. Find out why this area must be protected for future generations. All off track. About 6 km. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S223E-Q

Sat 31 Oct Blue Mountains NP - Faulconbridge - Lost World - Springwood Circuit Circuit Maps: Springwood Q Faulconbridge – Sassafras Creek – – Martins Lookout – Link Track – Bunyan Lookout – Lost World Lookout – Return via Magdala Creek to Springwood Station. The Lower Blue Mountains at their best from temperate forests to ridgetop woodlands with three climbs of 120 - 160m. A modification of my old Faulconbridge to Glenbrook walk that avoids the fire trail. Joint Walk with Bush Club. Please contact leader by Tuesday 27 October. Grade: L221-Q, 21 km

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 16

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sat 31 Oct Blue Mountains NP - Six Foot Track and Coxs River Maps: Jenolan, Hampton Q Six Foot Track at cemetery - Coxs River Campground - Coxs River Junction with - Return approx. the same way. This is a great walk that takes us trough the best part of the 6 Foot Track, and we will also explore the Coxs River downstream. On track and off track. Wet feet guaranteed. It will be a long and demanding day. Experienced and fit prospectives welcome. Partly exploratory for the leader. Party Limit. Grade: M323E-Q, Around 20km, depending on group pace.

Sat 31 Oct - Morton NP - Exploring west of Tallowa Dam Maps: Burrier Sun 1 Nov Let's try this again: Inspiration was taken from the 101 things to do in Coolana booklet and the map Q and aerial photo show some interesting features so here goes: Tallowa Dam - Mt Phillips - Double Terrace Point - Gunmarl Saddle - Timboolina Trig - Pommel Pass - - Tallowa Dam by one way or another. Plan is not set in stone, trip might be longer or shorter depending on what we find. Expect off-track walking, scrambling and exposure. All exploratory for leader. Hopefully some nice views and rock formations. Check map before contacting leader. Grade: M233E-Q

Sun 1 Nov Kiama - Kiama Coast Walk Minnamurra Railway Station - Cathedral Rocks - Bombo Beach - Kiama Blowhole - Surf Beach - Kendalls Beach - Loves Bay - Werri Beach - Gerringong Lots of places to stop on the way and accessible by transport. Grade: L211, 22 km

7-8 November Sat 7 Nov Brisbane Water NP - GNW: Piles Creek to Robinson Rd, Somersby Maps: Gunderman and Mangrove Piles Creek Circuit to Phil Houghton Bridge, then Hawkesbury Track along to the the lower and upper Mooney Mooney Dams, and on to Robinson Road. Just short of 20km. Lovely bushwalking country. Car shuffle required. Grade: M222

Sat 7 Nov Blue Mountains NP - Mt Banks to Pierces Pass, via Oronga Canyon Maps: Mt Wilson Q Reportedly, the best views over the Grose Valley but not a reward to be earned easily as the scrub and trickery to get there is of the difficult variety. Some route finding required through a cliffy section. A ledge to be explored. Off-track, thick scrub, exposure and awe. Grade: S223E-Q

Sat 7 Nov - Wollemi NP - Hefrons Hole and Beyond Maps: Growee Mon 9 Nov A 3-day pack or base camp walk. Details to be advised. Q Exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: M333E-Q

Sun 8 Nov Blue Mountains NP - Nebo Point Maps: Penrith Route: Pisgah Rock - - follow Erskine Creek past Dadder Cave - attempt to climb to Nebo Point - return. We might not reach the destination. Creek walking, gorge views, and swimming opportunities in a slightly overlooked area. Participants will need to be prepared for lots of rock hopping, scrub, two steep climbs, scrambling, and possible wet feet. Exploratory for leader beyond Dadder Cave. I'm not sure the walk is possible, but think it is worth trying. Grade: M223E

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 17

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 14-15 November Sat 14 Nov Western Sydney Regional Park - Great West Walk - Stage 1 - Toongabbie to Rooty Hill Maps: Prospect The Great West Walk is a newish walk which goes from Parramatta to Penrith. It is hoped to eventually extend the walk all the way to Bathurst. But we won't be going that far today. This walk takes in much of the middle section of the Great West Walk including remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland, creek corridors, an ascent of Rooty Hill (100 m or so) and places and sites of historic interest. This a walk which came into being through a group known as the Walking Volunteers, whose other achievements include the Great North Walk. Grade: M211, About 20 km

Sat 14 Nov Wollemi NP - Passes of the Colo Maps: Six Brothers - Sun 15 Down one pass, and up another. Walk the Colo in between. Passes to be determined. Expect Nov scrambling, exposure and wet feet. Q Grade: M233E-Q

Sun 15 Nov Marramarra NP - Big Bay Paddle Maps: Gunderman Explore Big Bay in on a high tide, mangroves, large occupation site, pretty area. 8am start at Mooney Mooney boat ramp - Bar Island - Friendly Island - Big Bay - return Need your own sea kayak or a paddling craft that can do 7km per hour. Should get assistance from a rising tide on the way, and ebb on the way back. About 20km.

Sun 15 Nov Munmorah SCA - Catherine Hill Bay Maps: Catherine Hill Bay Caves Beach - Catherine Hill Bay - Timber, Frazer & Red Ochre beaches. The club’s ~annual visit to this unspoiled coast. Very scenic walk on sand, rock platforms & clifftops. Many swims & a huge sea cave, so expect to get wet. Bring suitable shoes & a torch. Afterwards to Catho Hill Bay pub for refreshments/feed. Car shuffle (many cars needed to make covid-safe). Party limit. Some rock scrambling & hopping with mild cliff exposure. Grade: M212E, ~18km

Mid Week Fri 20 Nov Wollemi NP - Green Gully Divide Maps: Ben Bullen, Mount Morgan Q Park on the eastern edge of the Little Capertee Creek Camping Ground and make our way up Petries Gully, all the way to the dazzling Rainbow Caves at GR 438 295 and, if time permits, spot height 958. Return via a narrow ridge above Green Gully with breathtaking views onto the Wolgan-Capertee Divide along the way. About 13 km. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: M333E-Q

21-22 November Sun 22 Nov Newnes SF - Point Green and Wolgan Falls Maps: Cullen Bullen Q This is a walk in another spectacular, unprotected part of the Gardens of Stone region, currently under threat. We will visit Point Green and the Wolgan Falls, starting and finishing on Sunnyside Ridge Road. Find out why this area must be protected for future generations. About 9 km. Scrambling and exposure. Grade: S223E-Q

Sun 22 Nov Royal NP - Karloo Pool, Uloola Falls, Kangaroo Creek Maps: Port Hacking An opportunity to see some beautiful falls and flowers. Heathcote - Karloo Pool - Uloola Falls - Audley Track - Kangaroo Creek - Bottle Forest - Heathcote - Around 17km Grade: M221

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 18

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020 Sun 22 Nov Blue Mountains NP - Hydro Majestic to Ivanhoe Hotel Maps: Katoomba Start at Medlow Bath station, and explore the old tracks between the and the clifftops. Then head north through Medlow Bath village and past Katoomba Airport, looking for the way down to the bottom end of the Grand Canyon. Assuming we find it, head up through the Canyon to Blackheath. Grade: M212

Sun 22 Nov Blue Mountains NP - Goochs Crater Maps: Wollangambe Attempt to walk from Bell to Goochs Crater and return same way. Apparently an impressive natural landform with interesting rock formations nearby. Route finding and navigational practice likely because area unfamiliar to leader. Hopefully enough time to complete as a day trip. We will take care to avoid damaging delicate terrain. Grade: M222

Mid Week Fri 27 Nov Gardens of Stone NP - From Flying Carpet to Michelangelo Cave via Koan Pass Maps: Cullen Bullen Q Park one car at GR 423 131 off Glowworm Tunnel Road and another car at GR 415 150. From the second car, descend The Gurgler and visit the Flying Carpet. Walk back underneath the cliff line to Koan Cave, then continue south via Koan Pass and above the cliff line, all the way to Michelangelo Cave. Visit Michaels Chair and re-connect with the first car. Partly exploratory. Scrambling and exposure. About 8 km. Grade: S333E-Q

28-29 November Sat 28 Nov Royal NP - Curracurrong Creek Exploration Maps: Port Hacking Second try: I have been wanting to walk along Curracurrong Creek for a while now. We'll take (what I think is called) Curra Moors Trail to Curra Brook, have a look at Curra Brook then Eagle Rock before following Curracurrong Creek upstream as far as we can. Hopefully the exit will not be too scrubby! Walking in water is compulsory on this walk. Likely scrub and rock hopping. Grade: S213

Additional Expenses

TRAVEL: SBW recommends fuel travel costs are recovered at 30 cents per kilometre shared by all the occupants in the vehicle, including the driver/owner. Drivers may however suggest any amount they believe appropriate. There may be other expenses such as tolls & park entry fees. We encourage car sharing, it is environmentally friendly, helps with driver fatigue and it is a good way to get to know other club members.

ABSEILING/CANYONING: On abseiling trips, fees may be charged for use of the ropes.

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 19

THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INC – Spring Program 2020

Spring 2020 Social Program

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the Social Program is operating at a reduced capacity. September Wed 2 Sep, 7:00pm - Committee Meeting (via Zoom) Wed 9 Sep 8:00pm - Introduction to SBW - New members evening. An opportunity for those thinking about joining the club to learn more about it. This will be run at the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre (KNC), 16-18 Fitzroy Street, Kirribilli but spaces are limited. October Wed 7 Oct, 7:00pm - Committee Meeting (via Zoom) Wed 14 Oct, 8:00pm - Introduction to SBW - New members evening. An opportunity for those thinking about joining the club to learn more about it. To be confirmed on website closer to time if this is going ahead at KNC or via Zoom. November Wed 4 Nov, 7:00pm - Committee Meeting (via Zoom) Wed 11 Nov, 8:00pm - Introduction to SBW - New members evening. An opportunity for those thinking about joining the club to learn more about it. To be confirmed on website closer to time if this is going ahead at KNC or via Zoom.

If you have any ideas for social events, contact the Social Secretary:

Have you had a great trip somewhere you would like to share? Let us know.

Images: Front cover: Nattai NP ©Tom Brennan; Back cover: Winburndale NR; ©Tom Brennan

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 20

See you on the track…

Grading System - Distance S < 10km, M 10-19km, L 20-30km, X >30km Fitness 1-3, Ascent 1-3, Terrain 1-3, Exposure 21