XDR4XDR4

CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB

NEWSLETTER

it Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc. GPO Box 160 Canberra ACT 2601 Volume 54 Number 1 www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org February 2018 . GENERAL MEETING 7.30 pm Wednesday 21 February 2018 Weston Uniting Church 16 Parkinson Street, Weston Japan and Taiwan: Asian Hiking Gems Guest Speakers: Stewart Jones and Jonathan Miller

Japan and Taiwan are densely populated, yet their mountainous hinterlands provide exceptional walking opportunities. Such trips also inevitably bring walkers in contact with the intriguing local cultures. Jonathan is a retired ecologist and public servant. He went on his first overnight bushwalk at the age of 12, and is now in single-minded pursuit of Percies. Stewart is a retired economist and public servant. He also went on his first overnight bushwalk at the age of 12 (backpack tooled up with water, sleeping bag, jumper and wad of vegemite sandwiches), and is now in pursuit of the remaining 25 of Japan's top 100 mountains. Houou san ridge, Japan's Southern Alps Photo: Julian Ross

Contents

Privacy and the website Trip Report: The Great South West Walk CBC Committee information Trip reports and the website Book launch – Bold Horizon Newsletter contributions Trip reports and the IT Trip report - Gunuma Lodge, Perisher Activity Program New Members in the Club Poem – Smiggins Perisher A hot possum Snakes and your safety Trip Report – West MacDonnells #2 Bulletin Board Horses in the High Country

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 1 Privacy and the Club website

I hope you’ve had a relaxing summer period. If you are like me then you’re probably itching to get back into the bush, more and more, as the weather cools.

We are now using our web-based Club site fully for membership and activities. A huge amount of work has gone into development, testing and training, especially by Linda Groom. We’ve had a few teething issues, but the system is performing well. We’re considering ideas for future improvements as we continue to use the system.

Now that we are collecting more information in the system, we need to be more aware of people’s need for privacy. Over coming months, the Committee will be discussing how we should be addressing privacy, both in the system and generally.

In the meantime, I ask people who are provided access to personal information, including walk leaders, to act with discretion, sharing personal information only when necessary and only with the people who need it.

As the Club gets back into full swing, I hope to catch you at the next general meeting or on a walk sometime soon.

Michael de Raadt President

Trip reports, memory and menu items

One of the privileges of being a CBC member is having access to the Club’s corporate memory – the collective experience of generations of trip leaders. Trip reports contain wonderful anecdotes and memories. They also help future leaders plan trips, and in those rare cases where a trip contained some, well, surprisingly original variations from the advertised plan, they help leaders make a more informed route choice. Up till November 2017, the Club’s newsletter was the repository of trip reports. In November, the new software brought online trip reports. You can find these, after logging on, by hitting the item on the green menu: ‘View and search Trip Reports’. Trip reports will continue to be a highlight of the newsletter but there are several advantages to the online reports. They can be very brief, or thousands of words long. They can include route maps and other files from GPSs. They can include tables, dot points, lots of grid references and other things that don’t look so great in a newsletter. They can even include, dare I say it, grammatical errors, with no harm done. Our past president has paved the way with an informative online trip report on her recent Kowmung trip. If you are a leader, please consider adding an online Trip Report, long, short or middling. If you are a participant, please consider thanking your leader if they added one. In ten or twenty years’ time they will be a wonderful way to relive your adventures. Photo from Lorraine Tomlin's trip report on the Kowmung 13-14 January Linda Groom Walks Secretary

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 2 Welcome new members

The Club would like to welcome the following new members who joined the Club during the months of December and January.

Welcome Sharyn Wragg, Megan Grant, Steven Halpin, Leigh Hermann, Denis Willis,

Gaetano Currao, Victoria Tanner, Charles Jenkins, Ravinder Bayyarapu, Mark Membership fees Collins, Peter Dodds, Carolanne Petrusiak, Joseph Petrusiak, Michael Thwaites, 2017/2018 Brigit Maguire, Hilly Krone, Grant Ward, Tommaso Autorino, Iain Forrest and Alex $33 per person Noon.

Roger Edwards Membership Secretary

Trip Reports and the IT

If you read Linda’s report in this newsletter, you will see that any leader of a Club walk can now put their trip report on the new website. The IT will still be publishing trip reports as well, although without the same flexibility offered by the website. The IT still welcomes trip reports from leaders. What the IT also offers is the ability of participating, non- leader members of the party to write a trip report, which is not an option on the Club website. Two of the three trip reports in this edition are written by participating members on a trip, who were not the leaders.

If you, as a leader, are planning to write a lengthy trip report for the website, how about considering a short “teaser” for the newsletter – a summary of the walk to whet the appetite and encourage people to go to the website for the full story.

Thanks to our current contributors – Alan Laird for his description of the Great South West walk led by David Briese in November – a fascinating journey across diverse landscapes by foot and canoe; Mike Morriss for his story of the rich variety of walking in Kosciuszko NP during a trip organised by Janet Duncan – capped by Eric Pickering’s lovely poem about the unique sensory experience of walking in the high country; Meg McKone for Part 2 of her West MacDonnells trip in Central Australia; and some items of interest from Matthew Higgins.

Welcome to the first edition for 2018 and happy reading.

Meredith Hatherly Editor

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 3 Snakes and your safety in the bush

Standing bare footed and bare legged on the banks of the Murrumbidgee at Kambah Pool last week, I had the disconcerting experience of watching an Eastern Brown snake dart between my legs. It turned out that the snake wasn’t interested in me, but rather the mouse that was running next to my foot. The snake grabbed the mouse and sank its fangs into the hapless rodent, while I jumped out of the way.

I was never in any danger, but the suddenness with which the event occurred reminded me how we do need to be snake-aware and to know what to do on those very rare occasions when we might get bitten. I had been of the view that it is useful to get a description/identification of a snake if one did get bitten, but it seems that this is no longer necessary.

Recently, the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) issued new guidelines for snakebite victims based on a 10- year study of snakebites. Recent advances in medication mean treatment for any snakebite is with a generic polyvalent anti-venom, so identification is no longer necessary. The full article can be found at the following link, and it is well worth a read. https://farmers.org.au/news-updates/nff-news/new-snakebite-advice-08112017.html

Of course, it is best to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Don’t touch a snake of any size, as even a small one can deliver a deadly bite. Recently a poor young man died after intervening in a tussle between his dog and a small Eastern Brown. When walking, keep one eye on the ground, even if the birdwatchers among us insist on having one eye on the trees. When swimming in creeks or rivers, keep a watchful eye for snakes on the banks, and one eye out for any snakes that might be swimming in the water.

Snakes are just one more very minor and manageable hazard that we must deal with in the bush. They are beautiful animals who won’t hurt us if we don’t hurt or surprise them. The bush is big enough for both reptile and human. And for a human, the most dangerous place of all, is the couch at home.

David Dedenczuk Training and Safety Officer

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 4 WILD ABOUT HORSES

Parks Victoria has a Feral Horse Strategic Action plan to which CBC is submitting comment:

Feral horses are damaging our delicate alpine environment causing:  Loss of native plant & animal species & opportunity for weed species to grow  Trampling stream banks causing straighter, faster stream flow & erosion  Muddying and contamination of water posing a significant health risk to humans  Multiple tracks across the mountains  Danger and disruption to bushwalkers

Average horse trapping over the past 10 years needs to be increased 10-15 fold to achieve a significant reduction of horses. Instead, the method demonstrated to be the most humane, cost effective and safe for NPWS staff is aerial View from Mt Leo towards The Chimneys shooting. It is not fair that reptiles, birds, small mammals & Painted by Cynthia Breheny future generations of people inherit a degraded environment that we could save.

Cynthia Breheny View from Mt Leo towards The Chimneys Conservation Officer Painting by Cynthia Breheny

Feral horse damage in a small creek Photo: Linda Groom

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 5 The Great South West Walk

Leader: David Briese Participants: David and Pennie Briese and Alan Laird Dates: 10 Nov – 24 Nov 2017 inclusive (10 days of walking plus 1 rest day plus 3.5 days of canoeing) Location: The junction of SA, Victoria and the Great Australian Bight. Route: Nelson to Portland via the beach and headlands and return via the forest and river. Distance: The walk is about 250km but we canoed the last 50 or so km on the Glenelg River.

The GSWW was a special walk. It was special in a number of ways. The most significant is that I thoroughly enjoyed the company of David and Pennie. Our personalities melded strongly as the days progressed and we felt very relaxed and at ease with each other. Combined with the sheer pleasantness and intellectual prowess of David and Pennie the experience became a walk par excellence! What more could I ask?

But the experience was special in other ways. It is rightly subtitled “A symphony in four movements: Capes and Bays, Forest, Beaches and Rivers.” Cape Bridgewater, Cape Nelson and Point Danger, all of which we traversed, have a rich geological history, being the remnants of past volcanic activity. The associated bays are the remains of partly submerged calderas. On the headlands the black basalt volcanic layer underlies 30 metre high limestone cliffs. Fresh water pools at the basalt/limestone junction and blow holes have penetrated the softer limestone and tuff layers. These phenomena are all evident on the walk. Basalt, limestone and beach. We walked the beach from beyond the horizon. Photo: David Briese The long beaches and dune landscapes have their own history relating to glacial periods and sea level changes. The Southern Ocean in this region also has its own specialness. The Bonney Upwelling is a large scale nutrient upwelling system extending from Ceduna to Portland and sustains a bountiful ecosystem supporting rich fisheries.

Approximately 277 different species of birds can be found in the walk area. One group of keen ‘Twitchers’ is reported to have recorded 110 different bird species on their two week round trek. Their highlight was a flock of 62, highly endangered, Red-tailed Black Cockatoos. While I am not sure if we saw any red tailed black cockatoos, we did see a wide range of bird species and we did visit the site of the only Australian mainland gannet rookery at Point Danger.

And the Glenelg river section has its own charm and interest as it winds 400km from the Grampians to the sea. Over the last 15km the river has carved a 50m deep spectacular gorge through limestone.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 6 The Great South West Walk

The beaches: Nelson - Monibeong Camp - Swan Lake Camp - The Springs Camp The first three days were largely along Discovery Bay beach. This is a magnificent sweeping beach extending as far as the eye can see. Long parallel swells from the Southern Ocean pounded the white ribbon of sand relentlessly as a brisk easterly wind threw up sea spray high above the cresting waves. It was a magnificent sight. But the beach is dangerous and probably quite cold. We saw regular rips of muted waves. Some of the beach is pristine, but not all. Synthetic rope, plastic drink bottles, styrofoam buoys, plastic drums, plastic cable reels and the like littered some sections. On one occasion we passed four corroding shipping containers bolted together. I had to smile as we imagined locals scurrying down to see what treasures lay inside, only to realise that the containers were all refrigerated and the contents well and truly off! The amount of beached flotsam and jetsam was disappointing to see.

The campsites All but one of the campsites were made specifically for GSWW walkers. They all sported a fire place, an outside picnic table, a water tank and toilet facilities. The grounds were cleared and made tent ready and at each, the Friends of the GSWW had constructed a comfortable two sided shelter.

Capes and Bays: The Springs Camp - Trewalla Camp - Mallee Camp - Portland Following the beach section, over the next three days we hugged the headland cliff edge virtually the whole Camping shelters provided by the Friends of the GSWW time. Standing atop the cliffs a magnificent crescent Photo: David Briese of light yellow beach collared by a crisp white surf and deep blue Southern Ocean spread out northwest to the horizon. That is where we had come from: we had walked that whole distance! It was pretty amazing.

The headland is windy and rich in wind turbines, rich in geology, in bird life and especially rich in marine life. Information panels describe the upwelling, where seasonal winds draw up cold, nutrient-rich waters from the ocean floor. During autumn and winter southern right whales and blue whales are attracted to the abundant krill. Unless you spy a whale however, much of this is hidden from view.

Far below us lay dark columns of basalt and black tessellated rock platforms. Fresh water had pooled in some, having flowed between the basalt and the porous limestone. In the early days of settlement thirsty cattle were led down the cliff on a stone ramp especially made for the purpose. While we saw informative signs about this we could not locate the ramps, but we could see plenty of fresh water rock pools just above the boiling white of crashing waves.

The headland path lies on a rough deeply pitted limestone surface. It is a typical karst landscape and features a misnamed ‘Petrified Forest’. The ‘forest’ is a collection of hollow tubes of limestone called ‘solution pipes’. Water gathers in a shallow pan of carbonate based sand and seeps downwards, dissolving the limestone. The mineral-saturated water then cements the sand, forming hard, trunk-shaped pipes. There is a range of other volcanic phenomenon in the area. You will just need to go there to see for yourself!

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 7 The Great South West Walk

Two seal colonies occupy a basalt rock platform and can be spied from a viewing platform alongside the track and high above the sea. We were watching from the highest sea cliff in Victoria (130m above sea level). But it wasn’t only sightseeing that was special. Towards the end of that day we descended to the water line and in through the doors of the Cape Bridgewater Cafe. And I tell you, that was pretty special. Fish and chips and coffee all round! The specialness continued as we later experienced The Enchanted Forest, where creepers hang from above and Bower Spinach vines decorate large limestone boulders. The forest is moist, green and thick with an upper storey canopy. It has a slightly haunting and fairy tale look. Very impressive, I thought – and also wetter than the headland’s western faces. But it doesn’t stop there. Traversing industrial and wind turbine country we saw the Point Danger Australasian gannet colony as a large white shimmering mass with a Wending our way along the often flooded forest few birds circling in the air. track Photo: Alan Laird

The forest: Portland - Cubby’s Camp - Cut-Out Camp - Fitzroy Camp - Moleside camp The third of our four legs initially hugged the coast for a few kilometres, passing up-market Portland homes before swinging northwest into sheep and cattle country. This soon gave way to a wet sclerophyll forest with a thick under storey of ferns and a charcoaled history before entering a dryer messmate stringybark forest. It was all easy walking, was quite flat and we enjoyed mottled shade. The track was well defined, though flooded in places. The forest leg became a bit of more-of-the-same after a few long days: same leeches, same copperhead snakes, same messmate forest. We were pleased to eventually reach the Glenelg river.

The river: Moleside Camp - Battersbys Camp - Pattersons Camp - Dry Creek - Nelson Nelson Canoe Hire met us at Moleside Camp with a canoe and a kayak. After transferring our pack contents to two large plastic waterproof barrels and a sturdy dry bag, we donned life jackets and began paddling downstream. Canoeing was effortless compared with walking. We managed four to five km per hour and hardly noticed it. The wind was gentle. The river also abounds in bird life, and while I am not a birder we frequently spied blue wrens, ravens, sulphur-crested cockatoos, rosellas, treecreepers, gang-gangs, and a large number of other species better left to an ornithologist to identify. On this leg we enjoyed a tour of Princess Margaret Rose Cave and the chance to again partake of a fresh Limestone cliffs glowing in the morning light above our coffee in the facility’s attractive grounds. Ah…the moored canoes. Photo: Alan Laird specialness never stops.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 8 The Great South West Walk

The Glenelg River is tidal and the water brackish, despite still being about 50 km from the ocean. Bream fishing is a major pastime and there are many rusting galvanised iron fishing sheds overhanging the water’s edge. It is quite interesting to see inside: the floor of one room is the river itself. It was good for fishing but a bit surreal. From Dry Creek it was a pleasant and uneventful half day paddle into Nelson, and the end of our trip. On reaching Nelson, Pennie commented that we should just keep paddling and see what special things lay around the next river bend. I think that nicely sums up our thoughts about this walk.

For a full description of this walk go to http://www.gang-gang.net/nomad/greatsouthwestwalk .

Alan Laird December 2017

Book launch: Bold Horizon by Matthew Higgins

Matthew Higgins’ latest non-fiction book about the mountains will be launched at the National Library of Australia, Canberra, on 11 April. The book, Bold Horizon: high-country Place, People and Story, is an experiential history of the Australian Alps and answers the question ‘What is it like in Australia’s high country?' Matthew traces the mountain experience in a rich variety of ways. Firstly he talks of his own times in the Alps as a bushwalker, cross- country skier, historian and oral-history interviewer. Then Matthew profiles a range of people (most of whom he interviewed) who have worked, lived or played in the mountains: stockmen, skiers, Indigenous parks officers, rangers, brumby runners, foresters, authors, tourism operators and others. Central themes of place, people and story are interwoven with concerns about environmental impact and climate change. An extensive collection of beautiful images helps to tell the magnificent mountain story, from Kosciuszko to Kiandra, Brindabella to Bimberi and Bogong, to Tidbinbilla and beyond. Specially drawn maps are another feature. The book will be launched by Max Bourke AM, a founding committee member of Kosciuszko Huts Association, inaugural Director of the Australian Heritage Commission and someone who has walked and skied in the Snowies for 50 years. CBC members will be very welcome at the launch. Bookings are essential and can be made once the event is listed on the NLA’s website, booking either on the website www.nla.gov.au/events or by phone on 02 6262 1424. The book is being published by Rosenberg Publishing of Sydney and will be available broadly through good bookshops following the launch.

Matthew Higgins Editor’s note: The NLA will be advertising the launch on its website in March when full details will be available Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 9 NEW YEAR SNOWY MOUNTAINS WALKS – Gunuma Lodge at SMIGGINS HOLES 29/12/17-4/1/18

This New Year gathering of 20 CBC members and their friends has become a regular part of the Club’s programme. Janet Duncan has organised it for the past 4 years, with support from Gunuma members Terence Uren and Mike Smith. Once again she has done a marvellous job organising bookings, the catering teams, a detailed walks programme and other activities. Catering duties were scheduled in each group so that each individual could generally expect to enjoy a meal free of duties for half of the meals. This reduced crowding in the kitchen and required people to communicate and cooperate with each other on the important matter of food. I think it worked very well. Prior to each evening meal a meeting of all participants was held to discuss and plan future activities, appoint walks leaders and arrange car-pooling. By the end of our time at Smiggins 7 official CBC walks were provided. We all met on the first day at 12.30pm on Kosciuszko Rd and walked to Rainbow Lake. The distance is about New Years Eve dinner, Gunuma Lodge 4.5km and included a walk around the lake and to the site Photo: Leigh Hermann of the historic wooden pipes. The Lake was constructed as a water supply for the luxury Hotel Kosciuszko, which burnt down in the early 1900’s. We lunched under snow gums and watched 2 fly fishermen applying their skills, to no avail. The water was sparkling and adorned with floating, yellow fringed lilies. Three brave souls went in for a swim and reported that the water was fine. The weather was kind to us for most of our stay. There was rain on the morning of the first day and low clouds and strong winds on the second morning. For the remaining 5 days it was generally sunny and cool with light winds. The vegetation was verdant and the wildflower displays were perhaps the best for many years. There was much discussion of the diverse, beautiful and fragile flora of our alpine areas and the threats to it from exotic weeds, feral animals and wild fire. Quentin made valuable contributions to these discussions by circulating a book titled “Alpine Invaders” and by providing the gear for scrubbing and disinfecting our footwear after each walk. This should become established practice for all walks in wilderness areas, as a measure for limiting the spread of the invaders.

Walk 1. 30 December 2017 GUTHEGA LINK ROAD and AQUEDUCT Leader: Terence Uren Distance: 12km Altitude: 600m. After a turbulent night the morning brought low clouds and wind gusts. It was not a day for going onto the Main Range. Terence led the party of 12 along the Guthega Link Road, promising some off-track walking in “gungy scrub”. After descending for about 2km we left the road, climbed over a substantial hill to the south and joined another road in the Pipers Creek valley. The road was built to service a system of weirs, pipes and aqueducts, which capture water at high altitude downstream of the Guthega Dam and turn them back into the dam. Mike Smith advised us that there was a pipeline running close to the road, but there was no aqueduct to be seen. After some time we stopped at a creek crossing and considered following the creek upstream in the hope of crossing the aqueduct. On my urging, we did so. There followed a short, steep and difficult scrub bash, during which our leader made the suggestion that this route might, some day, become known as “The Morriss Way”. We eventually came out into open country only 1.5km from Gunuma. Terence offered to take anyone wishing to see the aqueduct on an additional walk of 4km, so about half of the party took this option. The aqueduct was found to be less than 50m from the road we had walked along earlier that day.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 10 NEW YEAR SNOWY MOUNTAINS WALKS – SMIGGINS HOLES 29/12/17-4/1/18 Jan.18

Walk 2. 30 December 2017 MT STILWELL, TOP STATION CHAIRLIFT and RESTAURANT RUINS Leader: Terence Uren. Distance: 12km. Altitude: 400m. Leaving cars at Charlottes Pass, a party of 14 took a track rising steeply through stunted, wind tortured snow gums and out onto alpine herb fields, with many varieties of flowers. Among the ruins of redundant chair lifts was a viewing platform from which we could see the highest summits on the Main Range. Walking on to Mt Stilwell and beyond to the ruins we crossed wet areas with sphagnum moss and richea. We passed below a patch of compacted snow, which provided an opportunity for some play at tobogganing. The ruins sit below a large rock cluster on the Rams Head Range, with views down into the Thredbo valley. They mark a considerable loss of investment in the early 1960's. The Filigree trees, burnt in 2003 fires Chairlift operated for parts of 1963 and 1964 and was unsafe in adverse weather conditions. The ruins now stand as a memorial to the snow field technology of an earlier era. On our return we went south, off track, across rolling alpine herb fields to the Kosciusko Road, and back to Charlottes Pass.

Walk 3. 1 January 2018 PORCUPINE ROCKS Leader: Janet Duncan. Distance: 7km. Altitude: ~100m 16 walkers started from the bridge on Rock Creek in Perisher Valley. A car swap was arranged for us to walk out to Perisher Gap. It was a steady uphill walk to the headwaters of the creek, followed by a climb into a cluster of rocks on the edge of the Rams Head Range. Viewed from below, these rocks give the impression of echidna quills. We had morning tea and enjoyed the views along the Thredbo valley. We were also able to observe the mountain plum pine, which is the preferred habitat of the pigmy possum. It was a short walk out via Mt Wheatley to Perisher Gap, where most of the party took refreshments at the café. There were 2 walkers who wanted more exercise, so they walked 5 km back to Gunuma by road.

Walk 4. 2 January 2018 CHARLOTTES PASS, WATSONS CRAGS, MT TWYNAM Leader: Mike Smith, Distance: 20 km. Altitude: 750m. It was an early start (8.15am) from Charlottes pass for 14 walkers. After a careful crossing of the Snowy River on large stepping stones, we started a long climb on the Main Range walking track to the track junction overlooking Blue Lake, reaching this point by 10am. At above an altitude of 2000m we were well above the tree line and were soon walking north on grassy slopes, towards Watsons Crags. At this stage three walkers looked at the seemingly large distance yet to traverse and opted to return by the way we had come. We started to descend along a narrowing ridge. The landscapes and geology had changed quite suddenly from the rolling plateau, with its scattered granite boulders to steeply plunging, craggy ridges and deep Leigh, Tim and Quentin on the final hill to Watsons Crags canyons. The predominant rocks were ancient sediments, tilted and fractured by seismic forces.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 11 NEW YEAR SNOWY MOUNTAINS WALKS – SMIGGINS HOLES 29/12/17-4/1/18 Jan.18 The Main Range peaks from this aspect take on a more characteristic alpine appearance and on reaching Watsons Crags about noon we had lunch on soft grass under a crag, which we later climbed to get views further down the ridge. Here we saw the bleached skeletons of 2 huge mountain plum pines, spread over a large granite boulder. Traces of charcoal on their massive trunks indicated that they were the victims of fire, after having lived there for maybe 200 years. We started our return with a steep climb towards Mt Twynam. On reaching the track to its summit the party divided. About half of the party went energetically on to the summit, while the rest returned the way we had come. The 2 splits in the party on this walk worked well because all members of the party got to walk in Australia’s highest alpine country, within their personal comfort zones.

Walk 5. 3 January 2018 GUTHEGA, ILLAWONG LODGE, MT TWYNAM Leader: Leigh Hermann. Distance: 15km Altitude:700m. A party of 9 walkers started from Guthega along the Illawong track on a cool cloudy morning. We crossed the Snowy River by the swing bridge one at a time. We then took a beaten track, which rose steadily through some beautiful scenery. There were hillsides covered in masses of daisies and stands of mature, unburnt snow gums in heavy blossom. As we climbed higher the terrain became steeper and strewn with rocks. The track became indistinct and soon was lost. Our leader got us through this stage by consulting with those who had been that way before, referring to the map and by finding marker cairns through the more difficult places. We soon came onto an open grassy saddle between Mt. Twynam and Little Twynam, from which there is a clear course to the top via steep slopes with patches of compacted snow and strewn with smooth flat rocks. At the summit a fit young man agreed to take group photos for us. Someone quipped that he was a professional photographer, hired by our leader. The young man played up the joke by saying that he didn’t mind waiting, as we took some time to assemble our group, because he was charging high rates by the hour. The return was easy, as it was downhill with no navigation problems. At about half way down to the swing bridge we met a party of 6 young women, coming up. They carried large packs and appeared to be unstressed and in great spirts. They had plans to go over Mt Twynam and camp somewhere beyond Blue Lake. It was good to see such Active resting energy and spirit in a new generation of bushwalkers. After recrossing the swing bridge we went up to look at Illawong Lodge and were invited to have a look inside by some very friendly members. After this pleasant interlude it was a short stroll back to the cars to finish a very pleasant walk.

Walk 6. 3 January 2018. MUNYANG- GUTHEGA POWER STATION TO HORSE CAMP HUT Leader: Tim Wright Distance: 7.8km Altitude: 300m A party of eight took a rapid ascent on fire trails through sub alpine woodland to the recently renovated Horse Camp Hut. The hut was constructed by SMA employees for use by skiers and walkers. It was abandoned in the 1960’s and rebuilt in 2016, making use of original materials. The group agreed that it is a delightful renovation. The sub alpine vegetation of the area has snow gums as the dominant trees, with a wide variety of shrubs, including the striking Grevillea victoriae along the creek. The impact of burning at different times and with varying intensity has produced a diverse habitat with more species of birds and plants than found at higher altitudes.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 12 NEW YEAR SNOWY MOUNTAINS WALKS – SMIGGINS HOLES 29/12/17-4/1/18 Jan.18

Walk 7. 4 January 2018 SAWPIT CREEK WATERFALL Leader: Janet Duncan. Distance: 4km. Altitude: 100m. On the final day 4 walkers stopped by the Sawpit Creek camp ground and took a track upstream to a waterfall. The main habitat was sclerophyll forest with well-spaced, tall eucalypts on the valley sides and a wide variety of plants, including grasses, rushes, ferns and shrubs along the creek. Bird calls became a major interest, as we slowed down to concentrate on sounds coming from high above us. We spoke in hushed tones, as we speculated on which species was producing what sounds. There was not much help in this process from sightings of birds, as they moved quickly through the tree canopies. We were however confident that we did hear and/or see a considerable number of species of birds. The waterfall was carrying a good flow of water and well placed viewing decks facilitated good photo opportunities.

Thank you again to Janet who organised it all, to all the leaders who ensured we successfully climbed to the top or along the track and returned safely and to everyone for simply delicious meals. And there are already plans for next year to ‘knock off’ Mt Townsend, Mt Anton and maybe Sentinel.

Mike Morriss. Photos: Janet Duncan Smiggins, Perisher January 2018

Blue Sky, Snow Gums, gnarled, twisted. Alpine breeze, cool. Wafting grass, Silver and green, green and silver, Like a gentle ocean wave.

Vast tracts of flowers. Alpine heath, Yellow and bright, Snow daisies, white, yellow and mauve, Pale violet aromatic mint, Pimelia’s intricate white lace, Bright pink triggers, Cream richea sentinels, Amber billy buttons, Lilies nodding their Exquisite electric blue.

Our path meanders upwards. A floral ridge, a carpet of flowers, We find grass and shade Beneath a friendly tree. We snooze, we dream, we savour, These Heavenly Places, Smiggins, Perisher!

Eric Pickering Photos contributed by Eric Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 13 Mishaps, Mysteries and Marvels in the West MacDonnells

PART 2: CHANGES IN THE CHEWINGS 1-8 AUGUST 2017

Party: Meg McKone, Lynn Atkinson, Margaret Cooper, Lynette Finch, Karen Cody, Ian Armstrong, David Scruse, Ian Turland, Melinda Brouwer. Note: Unofficial names are in inverted commas at first use.

By the time the bus dropped us at Ellery Creek Big Hole, I’d decided that my intended route along the north side of the Chewings Range to the top of Hugh Gorge was too big a risk. Despite 100mm of rain in January, we had found the west side of Razorback much drier than expected. I had only done the section from the Ellery Creek gap in the Chewings Range to “Peak Alone” once, in 2009, after very recent rain, and wasn’t sure if any of the small pools we had found in some of the gorges were reliable springs. Though there are ephemeral waterholes on either side of Peak Alone, I wasn’t hopeful of finding water there in the present conditions. I was 99% sure there would be water in “Mulga Creek”, but we would have needed to carry more than eight litres each in our by then seven day packs to Mulga, Redback, Callitris and Pyramid Gorges all have their get there. To continue on over the largely mouths along this stretch of the Chewings Range. unknown, complex route to the “Macrozamia Amphitheatre” (named by Frank Rigby) at the upper end of Hugh Gorge would have required another eight to ten litre portage. As an alternative we could use the Larapinta Trail to access the southern end of Mulga Creek from which we could climb Peak Alone, then visit some of the interesting gorges between it and Hugh Gorge along the southern side of the Chewings Range, where I have previously found reliable water on several trips. We might even have time to get to the Macrozamia Amphitheatre, whose name had caught some imaginations. Since Ellery Creek Big Hole is a busy tourist attraction, the Ranger had told us we could camp in the creek bed, out of sight of the campground. In this pleasant spot I unpacked my new large green gas canister anticipating a nice cup of tea only to find the gas sputtering and going out well before the water boiled. Other people were having the same problem. Our medium sized red canisters (a different brand) from the first walk had been fine, so what was the matter now? How were we to cook dinner for eight nights? However, Melinda was in luck, even though it had been too late for the Lone Dingo to deliver a new pair of boots to our bus in time. Down by the Big Hole, someone had left a pair of runners (her size) which were still there in the morning, so she had a spare pair of shoes if her soles continued to come adrift. She was in good company. Arthur Groom, in his 1950 book I Saw a Strange Land (recently republished in Text Classics) reported how “my heavy walking shoes split and pulled apart over the sharp, abrasive rocks” on his way to Ellery Creek. Our first day’s walking for the second trip was now all on the Larapinta Trail to Rocky Gully. There were wonderful views of the two long parallel ridges of the Heavitree and Chewings Ranges between which we plodded with our eight day packs, the Heavitree red and smooth apart from some significant gaps, the Chewings a deep blue barrier thrusting rugged peaks into the sky.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 14 Mishaps, Mysteries and Marvels in the West MacDonnells

At their western end the two ranges drew closer together at the eastern entrance to Ormiston Pound, with the characteristic inverted V of Mt Giles just visible on the horizon. It is interesting to ponder the fact that there are no official English language names marked on the topographic maps of this 45 kilometre section of the Chewings Range apart from Mt Giles, Fish Hole, Ellery Creek and Hugh Gorge. We rested in a pleasant, shady creek bed as the day heated up, then tackled the short but steep knolls of a long ridge until at last we reached the dusty Rocky Gully campsite, with its welcome water tank and almost odour-free toilet. Time to cook dinner, and once again my gas wasn’t working although it had inexplicably done so at breakfast. Karen, who had a lot of her red canister left, kindly let me heat up my dehydrated meal on hers. There were theories aplenty as to why some of us were having problems but not others. The green canisters were working with Pocket Rockets but not Kovea stoves and some other brands. When we hit on the idea that the pin in the stove had to be a certain length to open up the valve, I solved my problem by screwing the stove top down as hard as I could. It was a relief to know we wouldn’t be crunching our dehyds for some nights to come. Next morning we had five more kilometres along the Larapinta before turning off towards Mulga Creek. Karen and I had spent some time the previous evening putting grid references into her GPS to make sure that we would head for the correct gorge. Despite the fact that Mulga Creek starts on the north side of the Chewings Range and cuts right through, there is no obvious gap in the Range at this point as there is for Ellery Creek. After some easier walking than the day before along a flattish ridge with great views ahead of the Hugh Gorge Climbing around a pool in Mulga Creek area including Mt Conway (Iloata) and beyond, we selected a spur to head north across the Alice Valley to where Mulga Creek joined the main creek. Immediately, our speed was greatly reduced as we struggled through tall grass littered with fallen trees and hiding sharp, loose rocks. The going became easier as we walked the five kilometres up the sand and rock outflow of Mulga Creek to the start of the gorge, where happy cries announced a pool of water at the foot of the rock step. Our high spirits continued as we passed several sets of pools and clambered up rock steps on the way upstream to the campsite at the dogleg bend halfway through the gorge. Here, things didn’t look so good. It is usually a lovely spot beside a creek bed sheltered with river red gums and nestled amongst the hills surrounding a hidden valley. Now it was smothered in tall grass and weeds from the summer rains. Mulgas and callitris (native pines) which used to offer patchy shade had been killed by the 2012 fires which had swept across the West MacDonnells from the far end right to the outskirts of Alice Springs. To make matters worse, patches of the ground were covered with almost invisible burrs and prickles to which more than one airbed fell prey. However, by the time we left after three nights there, we had tidied things up to suit ourselves and were almost reluctant to leave. It’s a location that grows on you. Having got here, what were we going to do next? After eight days of walking (including our six days around Razorback), I was ready for a rest day, but some were keen to get their teeth into Peak Alone. So we headed up the western side creek to a saddle, then up a steep spur to a much higher saddle from which we revelled in one of the most magnetic views in the West MacDonnells - the startling pyramid of red and white quartzite dotted with dark green callitris, set at the end of a flaring valley which leads invitingly to its base.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 15 Mishaps, Mysteries and Marvels in the West MacDonnells

By the time we had descended to the bottom of the valley, negotiating several dry waterfalls along the way, and followed the creek bed to the start of the climb, I knew that if I climbed the mountain I wouldn’t have the energy left to climb back to the high saddle on the way home. I found a comfy rock and had lunch and a snooze before zooming in with my camera to some tiny figures on the summit. Five of the party made it to the top, incidentally climbing another McDouall (a N.T. peak over 1000 metres with a drop of at least 150m all round), for the amazing view that stretches 90km along the north side of the On the high saddle, looking towards Peak Alone Chewings Range, from Mt Zeil to the peaks at the upper end of Hugh Gorge. We had a semi rest day the next day, walking upstream a few kilometres past the red gorge which seems to hold permanent water. It was good to have time in the afternoon to go downstream for a decent wash, the only one of the whole trip, apart from sponge-baths and Ian T’s braving of the icy waters of the Big Hole. The plan now was to head east to the next major creek, “Redback Gorge” (named after the spider that crawled out of my pack harness in 2000), to set up camp for two nights on what I remembered as a beautiful long terrace shaded with native pines, and explore the tributaries of Redback in the afternoon. Next day we could do a day walk around the base of the range to “Pyramid Gorge” (named after a high triangle of rock on its upper slopes), climb up to “Spiral Canyon” and return via the hills. But it was a slow journey to Redback Gorge through the high grass, hidden rocks and fallen timber, despite finding horse tracks and rocks set as markers in trees from time to time. We could only expect more of the same on the way to Pyramid Gorge. Redback Gorge had a large pool of clean water at its mouth despite the horse dung further back, but alas, the pines on the terrace had been burnt and we set up camp in high kangaroo grass and prickles. By some miracle, my airbed remained intact for the whole trip, though others weren’t so lucky. The western branch of the creek proved to be dry though some members of the party found several pools in the middle branch. The route to Pyramid Gorge had the usual obstacles, with a few steep climbs over outlying spurs thrown in. We had morning tea at Callitris Gorge where the rocks above the pool at its mouth were wet with water visibly seeping out of the strata. Our last climb gave us a wonderful bonus, a dramatic view into Pyramid Gorge where three long, high cliff lines create rocky barriers right across the creek bed. The second of these contains Spiral Canyon, where floods have corkscrewed down through the bedrock. After descending to the creek, we dumped our packs and made our way into the gorge. We climbed up and around the first drop, which had a pool of good water at its base. The clear, tuneful notes of a butcher bird welcomed us to the next section of creek, full of flowering bushes and shady, white- trunked eucalypts, which led into a narrow gorge adorned with cool green moss and ferns growing amongst the runnels of seeping water and around the pools. Looking up, we could see the twisting canyon disappearing into a molten gold and red fissure fired by the noonday sun. “This makes it all Spiral Canyon worthwhile,” mused Lynette, as she took vertical panoramas.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 16 Mishaps, Mysteries and Marvels in the West MacDonnells

There were still more interesting things to see in Pyramid Gorge, so we took the steep, dry creek bed cut into the bedrock to the west of Spiral Canyon to ascend that cliff line and approach the next up slopes of spinifex. I was looking for a feature I had seen on previous trips – a huge red arch which formed the opening to a steep- floored overhang. But we couldn’t find it. Had it collapsed? Was it above the next cliff line? Feeling weary, we decided to descend and set up camp, so its location remained a mystery. On the way to Hugh Gorge, we passed “S Bend Gorge” then had good views into two other short, steep gorges with cliffs across the creek lines, worth a closer look some time. A kilometre and a half before the shelter shed, we joined the Larapinta for an easy amble to the end of our walk. We had the afternoon of that day and until mid-afternoon the next day to investigate Hugh Gorge and one of its major tributaries. It is a magnificent gorge, several kilometres long, sheltering many pools and trees in the riverbed and flanked by high cliffs, bright orangey-red close up and misty Pool in Hugh Gorge. reddish-mauve in the distance. Some of the party made it as far as “Hypothermia Pool” which blocks the entrance to the upper gorge, but without swimming a considerable distance through its frigid water, it would have been necessary to do a three kilometre detour with a very steep 200 metre climb and a drop back into the river to reach the Macrozamia Amphitheatre, then back again. It was Lynette who realised just in time that we had to walk another several hundred metres up the road from the shelter shed to the locked gate where our bus would pick us up. We arrived panting at the same time as Tony with an off-road vehicle for the appalling road out to the tar and welcome beers all round. So by good luck and a certain amount of good management, we avoided disaster and saw some marvellous country. We worked out the problem with the green gas canisters and were able to eat. Melinda’s boots survived with help from glue and tape, and she left the runners in the shelter shed for someone else with footwear issues. Despite the copious amount of water we had found on the southern side of the Chewings Range between Mulga and Hugh Gorges, our experience this trip on the western side of Razorback and my previous trips here suggest that the north side of the Chewings in this area is a lot drier than the south side, so I would still hesitate to go there without recent rain. But hey! That leaves room for more exploration, perhaps from a base camp at the Macrozamia Amphitheatre, in these intriguing and rewarding ranges.

Text and photos Meg McKone

The top cliff line in Pyramid Gorge

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 17 Who is on the CBC Committee 2017-18?

President: Michael de Raadt Editor: Meredith Hatherly [email protected] [email protected] 0410 233 090 Assistant Walks Secretary: Keith Thomas Treasurer: Julie Anne Clegg [email protected] [email protected] +64 27 535 6176 0402 118 359 Social Secretary: Terrylea Reynolds Walks Secretary: Linda Groom [email protected] [email protected] 0408 715 218. 6281 4917 Publisher: David Williams General Secretary: Jenny Stewart [email protected] [email protected] ————————————————————— Membership Secretary: Roger Edwards [email protected] All members of the Committee can be contacted 6288 7863 in one email to: [email protected] Training and Safety Officer: David Dedenczuk [email protected] Check in: [email protected] 0417 222 154 Web site: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org Conservation Officer: Cynthia Breheny [email protected]

Web Manager: Andrew Meers [email protected]

For those who are thinking of contributing to this newsletter

 Your contributions are very welcome. Please limit your articles to a maximum of two to three pages of text or about 1000 -1500 words.  When you send a photo, and it is not your own, make sure you have permission to use it. Include the name of the photographer.  Any article you send in is usually not accepted if it has been published or submitted for publication elsewhere.  Be aware that your article may be edited.  If you would like to discuss your proposed contribution then contact me - I am more than happy to help.  The closing date for each issue of it is the fourth Wednesday of every month. Send contributions to [email protected]

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 18

ACTIVITY PROGRAM

Information for Participants Distance and difficulty Distance: Transport (S) Short – under 12 km/day Costs are 39¢/km/car, divided equally among all participants. This (M) Medium – 12–20 km/day amount may be varied at the discretion of the leader, depending on (L) Long – over 20 km/day the condition of the roads and other factors. The figures given are Note: In calculating distance, 1 km is added for every 100 metres for the car as a whole and then, at the discretion of the leader, an climbed. estimate or range per person. Park admission and camping fees are additional costs which leaders should list separately. Terrain: Duty of care (E) Easy – fire trail, tracks, beaches etc. Every person taking part in a CBC activity acknowledges that he/she (M) Medium – bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub does so voluntarily and that he/she may be exposed to risks that could lead to injury, illness or death, or to loss of, or damage to (R) Rough – much scrub, steep climbs, rock scrambles property. Each person acknowledges risk when they book on line (W) Wet – compulsory swims, many river crossings for walks, and sign the Club’s ‘Acknowledgement of Risks’ form at (X) Exploratory the start of a walk. Visitors are welcome to join trips. However walkers are strongly encouraged to join the Club after a maximum of three trips. Booking Please book online using the 'Request a booking' button on the page For further information see: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org for each walk. Many walks have a booking deadline, and all leaders appreciate Check-in after walks receiving bookings several days ahead of the walk, rather than just a Before a trip leaders should use the 'Submit Trip List' function within day or two ahead. 'Manage Bookings' to inform the Club's check-in officer of the If the type of walk is new for you, check with the leader about: names of their party. After the walk, leaders should use the 'Check- * the need to carry water, tents/fly, maps, etc. In' function, also within 'Manage Bookings', by 10 am the day after * appropriate clothing, footwear their trip to report their safe return or any incidents, and also email * any precautions you might need to take for severe weather a scanned copy of the Acknowledgment of Risks form to the Check-

in Officer, David Dedenczuk [email protected] In the event of a late return, worried relatives should contact the Equipment hire Check-in Officer, 0417 222 154,or the Walks Secretary, 6281 4917 or Take advantage of the excellent gear that the Club has available for 0474 507 259 in the first instance, not the Police or other bodies hire before lashing out on your own equipment. The Equipment Officer is Rob Horsfield, who can be contacted on 6231 4535(h). To Map scale is 1:25,000 unless otherwise stated borrow the PLB, contact David Dedenczuk, Training and Safety

Officer: [email protected]

The equipment available and current rates per weekend/week are Wednesday walks set out below. Hirers are responsible for collecting and returning Two walks one Medium/Easy and one Medium/Hard, are conducted the equipment. The hiring charge (but not the deposit) is waived for most Wednesdays. Walks are conducted in turn by leaders from the members who are ‘first time’ weekend walkers. Canberra Bushwalking Club (CBC), Brindabella Bushwalking Club (BBC – Peter [email protected] and Kathy A deposit of $20 is required and part or all of this will be refunded, [email protected]) and National Parks Association ACT (NPA depending on the condition of the items upon return and whether - Mike S, 0412 179 907). Destination and meeting place details are they are returned late. emailed a few days before each walk. (BBC and NPA leaders as listed in the activity program). Item w.e./week Control your receipt of Wednesday Walk emails via your Olympus two person tent $15 / $40 membership profile. Contact John, co-ordinator of Wednesday Macpac Microlight one person tent $15 / $40 Walks, via [email protected] for Snow tent $15 / $40 general enquiries. If you are not a member of CBC, BBC or NPA you 3 season bag, mat and liner $10 / $25 must contact the leader before the walk to discuss the level of Assorted packs $5 / $15 difficulty and must be accompanied on the walk by a sponsoring Trangia and fuel bottle $5 / $15 member. Please note that leaders retain the right to not accept any Snow shoes/poles $10 / $25 walker. Snow sleeping bag, mat and liner $15 / $40 Personal locator beacon – nil (see website for conditions) GPS – nil (see website for conditions of use)

Check you have ALL the bits and pieces you need when collecting and returning gear.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 19 Activity Program

Thu 15 Feb: Ginninderra Creekline, Macgregor and Latham - S/E Evening walk. Meet at 6.30 at the end of Swift Place, Macgregor. This is a fairly short walk with varied scenery. We follow the Ginninderra Creekline from a small bridge in Macgregor to another in Latham; returning on the other side of the creek. All on walking/cycle paths. → 1.5 hours Map: Canberra Transport: Drive yourself. Leader: Diana Kirby. No need to book. See online... Sun 18 Feb: Evening ramble, Cooleman Ridge - S/E Start and finish at Kathner St, Nature Park entrance 5.30 pm. Beautiful views out to the west and across Canberra. → a couple of hours Map: Canberra Transport: Drive yourself Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online... Sun 18 Feb: River crossing training - S/R/W An opportunity to learn safer ways to cross rivers. Particularly recommended for leaders, and anyone contemplating walking in NZ or Tasmania. The course will cover assessing a river and choosing a crossing place, solo crossing techniques, team crossing techniques, and a demonstration, in which you can participate if you wish, of swimming with a pack. Participants in the previous course, about 3 years ago, found it a lot of fun. The instructors are CBC leaders with experience in river crossing, but are not formally accredited in any way. The location is below Corin Dam. We will leave Canberra around 1.30pm and should be back by 5.30 pm. → 2 to 3 hours, 1 km ↗ 100 metres ↘ 100 metres Map: Corin Dam Transport: $24 per car Leaders: Linda Groom, Lorraine Tomlins, Rowan Peck. Booking required. See online... Mon 19 - Thu 22 Feb: Depot Beach four day Camp - S/E This trip is now full and there is already a wait list. Thank you for your interest. An opportunity to enjoy 4 days camping at the Depot Beach Campground. Activities include walking around to Pt Upright along a spectacular wave-cut platform, walking along to Pebbly Beach for snorkelling, short walk in the rainforest, a day spent at North Head, as well as gazing at the stars and doing nothing. Campers need to bring own tent or van. Joint activity with BBC. Map: tba Transport: ~$55 each person, including travel to North Beach, plus National Park pass $8 per car per night. Accommodation: 3 nights. Powered sites $34 per night, unpowered $24 per night for 2 people. Cabins available. Hot showers $1. Self-cater as there are no shops nearby. Please book your own accommodation: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/camping-and- accommodation/campgrounds/depot-beach-campground 02 4478 6582 Leader: Janet Duncan Booking required. See online... Tue 20 Feb: Tarlo River National Park, Southern Section - M/R/Part X An off-track walk in woodlands in the south of the Park. It is steep spur and gully country and we shall visit a few interesting conglomerate outcrops. Some rock scrambling required. → 11km Map: Chatsbury Transport: 272km return. (1hr 45 minutes drive each way) Limit: 8 Leader: Ian Wright Book by: Fri 16 Feb, 10:00pm. See online... Wed 21 Feb: Toddlers Toddle Gudgenby River - S/M For a couple of kilometres above its junction with the Murrumbidgee, the Gudgenby River is a huge sandpit, with the shallow waters of the Gudgenby River flowing through it. Cleaner, clearer and gentler than the Murrumbidgee, the Gudgenby is a great place for toddler water play. The walking route is 200 to 300 metres return, mainly in the river bed itself. En route there is some unavoidable wading, usually shin-deep, on a sandy bottom. I will bring a lilo (air bed) for rides in the gentle current, and there are opportunities for blackberry picking. Meet at 9.45am on Smith's Road, at the bridge where the road crosses the Gudgenby River, about 600 metres from the junction of Naas Road and Smith's Road - about 5 minutes drive past Tharwa. All sealed road, though the seal in the parking spot is a bit patchy. → 200 to 300 metres return ↗ 3 metres ↘ 3 metres Map: Williamsdale Transport: Drive yourself. Leader: Linda Groom. No need to book. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 20

Activity Program

Wed 21 Feb: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk (BBC) Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Kathy Handel – BBC Wed Walks coordinator. No need to book. See online...

Wed 21 Feb: Wednesday walk - Medium Hard - M/R Wednesday walk (BBC) Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Peter Ford. No need to book. See online...

Wed 21 Feb: Pre-CBC Monthly Meeting Dinner, at the Canberra Irish Club - -/-/W Reviving an old CBC tradition, we are having a club dinner at the Canberra Irish Club (6 Parkinson Street, Weston) prior to navigating our way to the CBC monthly meeting, at 16 Parkinson Street, Weston. You don't even have to cross the road! Which is just as well because we can't provide adult supervision. Please book this activity with me, then arrive at the Irish Club by 6 pm and I will sign you in. → 90 minutes ↘ 2.5 (maximum) Maps: UBD Canberra 2016, Page 67, K 14 Transport: Own Limit: 40 participants Leader: Mark Peirce. Book by: Tue 20 Feb, 5:00pm. See online...

Wed 21 Feb: CBC Monthly Meeting 7.30pm Weston Uniting Church, 16 Parkinson St, Weston Japan and Taiwan: Asian Hiking Gems. Guest Speakers: Stewart Jones and Jonathan Miller

Sat 24 Feb: Dawn Sortie - Stockyard Creek Waterfall - S/R Corin Dam - Stockyard Spur - Stockyard Creek and return → about 6km return ↗ 650 metres Map: Corin Dam Transport: 90km return, $36 per vehicle, meeting at Kambah Village Limit:12 Leader: Rob Horsfield Booking required. See online...

Sat 24 - Sun 25 Feb: Burrinjuck Bridge to Bridge - L/- Paddling two arms of Burrinjuck Dam covering the Murrumbidgee and Goodradigbee Rivers. We will split into two groups, travelling in opposite directions from Wee Jasper and Taemas Bridge. From Taemas Bridge, we will also explore up the Murrumbidgee River. We will meet to camp together on Narrangullen Island (about half way). On Day 2, continue to the other end of the trip before meeting back in Canberra to return cars to their owners. → About 65km paddling (from Wee Jasper direction, 35km + 30km) Maps: Brindabella, Yass 1:100,000 Transport: ~80/car. Limit: 16 Leaders: Rowan Peck, Mike Bremers. Book by: Tue 20 Feb, 4:00pm. See online...

Sat 24 - Sun 25 Feb: S24C#1 - Rendezvous Creek - S/E An afternoon toddle from Nursery Swamp Carpark to Rendezvous Creek campsite. Optional side trips to Nursery Swamp and Nursery Creek Rock Art. A morning return by the same route. Ideal bush break for busy people. Suitable as an overnight pack trip for beginners. → 10km (without side trips) ↗ 300 ↘ 100 Map: Rendezvous Creek Transport: $60 per car Limit: 16 Leader: Sean Sunley Book by: Wed 21 Feb, 6:00pm. See online...

Sun 25 Feb: Mt Majura and Dry Stone Wall - S/M This walk starts at Antill Street following a footpad in an easterly direction towards the Centenary Trail. After reaching the Centenary Trail we will turn right and follow it to the summit of Mt Majura. After catching our breath over morning tea we will walk off track through open forest down the northern flank until we reach the southern end of a large dry stone wall about 300 metres in length. After a short walk from the northern end of the wall we re-join the Centenary Trail and head back to our cars. Total distance is about 7km. Total climb is about 370 metres. We will be home in time for lunch. → 7 km ↗ 370 ↘ 370 Map: Hall Transport: Drive yourself but let me know if you need a lift Leader: Phillip Starr Book by: Fri 23 Feb, 2:00pm. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 21

Activity Program

Wed 28 Feb: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Peter Ford. No need to book. See online...

Wed 28 Feb: Wednesday walk M/H - M/R Wednesday walk NPA sponsored Map: Nil Transport: nil Leader: Mike Smith. No need to book. See online...

Thu 1 Mar: Fishing Gap to Mt Domain and return - M/M Walk up the Fishing Gap fire trail and then follow the newly taped foot pad to Mt Domain. Return the same way. → 12 km ↗ 700 ↘ 700 Map: Tidbinbilla Transport: $7-$9 pp, plus entry fees (if applicable) Limit: 8 participants Leader: Phillip Starr Book by: Mon 26 Feb, 2:00pm. See online...

Fri 2 Mar: Toddlers Waddle - Gibraltar Creek - S/M A walk designed for families with pre-school age kids, with opportunities for water play in a mountain creek. From Woods Reserve we will follow an informal foot track for about 250 metres up Gibraltar Creek, where there are some shallow pools suitable for water play. Return the same route. Sitting room on the banks is a bit limited, but we can spread along 50 metres of creek if necessary. Good for a hot day. Meet at Woods Reserve, off the Corin Road, in the car park at the western (uphill) end of the reserve, ready to start walking at 10.15 am. → 500 metres return, 1.5 hours ↗ About 5 metres ↘ About 5 metres Map: Tidbinbilla Transport: Drive yourself. All sealed road. Leader: Linda Groom. No need to book. See online...

Sun 4 Mar: Spring Creek Gorge adventure - S/R Designed for families with active kids aged 6 years or over, this is a fun hike along Spring Creek, in the Yanununbeyan State Conservation Area. The route goes through a series of rocky sections and cascades, with some scrubby patches, reaching the Queanbeyan River via a small gorge. There is no track. Option to swim through the gorge, about 10 metres, or scramble high around it. Lunch by the river. Return the same way. Water quality about the same as the Murrumbidgee. Total 4km, 50 metres descent and ascent. Leave Queanbeyan 9:00am, should be back by 3pm. → 4 km ↗ 50 m ↘ 50 m Map: Captains Flat Transport: $40 per car if shared. A 45 minute drive from Queanbeyan via Woolcara Lane, the last 25 minutes on dirt road. Leader: Linda Groom. Booking required. See online...

Sun 4 Mar: Camels Hump and Johns Peak - L/M We will walk up the steep fire trail to Camels Hump for morning tea. From there we will traverse south along the scrubby ridge line to Johns Peak for lunch. Rather than repeating a previous exit down steep scrubby regrowth we will retrace our steps to re-join the fire trail that takes us back to the cars. If the weather is clear, we will have 360 degree views. Distance around 15km. A climb of around 620m to Camels Hump and another 140m to Johns Peak. → 15 km ↗ 760 ↘ 760 Map: Tidbinbilla Transport: $8-$10 pp, plus entry fees (if applicable) Limit: 12 Leader: Phillip Starr Book by: Fri 2 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Tue 6 Mar: Tinderry Nature Reserve, Eastern Side - L/R/Part X A long walk in the northern part of the Tinderry Nature Reserve. Start on Burra Rd, then West Keewong Firetrail - North Branch of Tinderry Creek - eastern slopes for 5km - back to western side of range. The eastern section is exploratory and links up granite outcrops in dense forests. Some rock scrambling required. Off-track: 10km. Fire-trails: 9km → 19 kilometres ↗ 1200 ↘ 1200 Maps: Williamsdale, Michelago, Tinderry, Captains Flat Transport: 112km return Limit: 8 Leader: Ian Wright Book by: Fri 2 Mar, 9:00pm. See online...

Wed 7 Mar: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk BBC sponsored Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Kathy Handel – No need to book. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 22

Activity Program

Wed 7 Mar: Wednesday walk M/H - M/R Wednesday walk BBC sponsored Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Peter Wellman. No need to book. See online...

Sat 10 - Sun 11 Mar: Spur north by north west of Mt Clear and Shanahans Falls Creek - M/R/Part X This is a reconnaissance for the 2018 Worn Boot Bash. Day 1: Mt Clear campground - climb the spur N/NW of Mt Clear then descend to Horse Gully Hut. Ascent 300 m, distance 9km. Day 2: Horse Gully hut - Shanahans Falls Creek - saddle - Mt Clear campground. Distance ~ 9 km, ascent ~ 250 m Map: Colinton Transport: 110 km return, $44 per vehicle Limit: 12 participants Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online...

(Fri 9) Sat 10 - Mon 12 Mar: KNP 2100+m Hills - L/R Joint CBC/CWBC trip. Leave Canberra Friday evening, stay in Jindabyne overnight. On Saturday depart from Charlottes Pass and top as many 2100 m+ peaks as the group can manage, and weather allows. Camp at Wilkinsons Creek 1st night, and at Cootapatamba Hut 2nd night. Traverse Ramshead Range and Etheridge ranges before returning to cars Monday pm for drive home. Route will vary based on weather and group. In 2017, we topped them all - let's see if we can do it again! → 55km ↗ 2100 ↘ 2100 Map: Perisher Valley and Geehi Dam Transport: About $150 per car from Canberra; plus KNP entry fees if applicable Accommodation: 1st night in Jindabyne in lodge / house, bunk rooms. Sat and Sunday nights tents Limit:8 Leader: Rowan Peck. Book by: Mon 5 Mar, 6:00pm. See online...

(Fri 9) Sat 10 - Mon 12 Mar: Kanangra car camp - M/M Canberra Day LWE, staying at Boyd River camping area close to the cars. Three day walks seeing some grand scenery on the edge of the Blue Mountains. This trip may be done as a standalone or in conjunction with the Blue Mountains trip immediately afterwards. The walks are tentatively: Mt Colboyd via Wallaby Pass M/M-R ; Kowmung River and Tuglow karst area M/M; and Kanangra Plateau S/E. → 8, 10, 8 kilometres respectively ↗ 550, 350, 250 respectively ↘ 550, 350, 250 respectively Maps: Kanangra, Yerranderie, Shooters Hill Transport:~540km return, $210 per car Leader: Jeff Bennetts. Book by: Wed 7 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

(Fri 9) Sat 10 - Mon 12 Mar: Little Forest Plateau-Gaol House Pass-Clyde River-Dummal Creek-Talaterang- Return - L/R/Part X/W A route described in Ron Dougton's Bushwalking in the Budawangs but not regularly used. The route will have a lot of variety - classic Budawangs views and passes, river walking on the Clyde, some boulder hopping and rock scrambling in Dummal Creek and even some scrub on the western side of Talaterang. ↗ Approx 700 metres climb from Clyde to Talaterang peak ↘ Approx 500 metres down to the Clyde River Maps: Tianjara, Milton, Corang and CMW Budawangs sketch map Transport: $180.00 per car Accommodation: We will be camping Friday night near the start of the walk Limit: 8 Leader: Lorraine Tomlins Book by: Mon 5 Mar, 6:00pm. See online...

Mon 12 Mar: Toddlers Toddle – Callum Brae Nature Reserve - S/M What better way to celebrate Canberra Day than to introduce your pre-schooler to a Canberra nature reserve? Callum Brae Nature Reserve is a pleasant woodland with lots of birds, a few minutes drive south of the suburb of Narrabundah. Meet at the Nature Reserve entrance, approximately opposite 39 Narrabundah Lane, Symonston, ready to start walking at 9.45am. We will walk on a grassy fire trail, then off-trail through the woodlands, follow a small gully and climb a 1.5 metre high ‘cliff’. About 400 metres total distance. This walk is designed for families with kids up to around 4, who are keen to acquire skills such as walking through grass, log-walking, recognising a gully and following it, and walking around ant nests. → 400 metres in approx 1.5 hours ↗ Less than 10 metres ↘ Less than 10 metres Map: Google maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Meredith Hatherly. No need to book. See online... Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 23

Activity Program

Tue 13 Mar: Corang Circuit – Wog Wog, Corang Peak and Arch, Canowie Brook, Corang River, Goodsell Creek and return - L/M A lollypop-shaped circuit of some Budawang icons. Around 25km and 600m climb on good to rough tracks. → 25km ↗ 600 Map: Corang Transport: ~$25 per person, 1hour 40 minute drive from Queanbeyan. Limit: 8 Leader: John Evans. Book by: Sun 11 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

(Mon 12) Tue 13 - Mon 19 Mar: Blue Mountains car camp - M/M We will stay 4 nights at Blackheath Caravan Park then 3 at Dunphys camping area in Megalong Valley. Magnificent sandstone, rainforest and heath scenery. The walks are tentatively: Blue Gum Forest and Govetts Leap; Mt Banks; Mt Solitary; Mt Hay; Mt Mouin; Ironpot Ridge; and Bellbird Point. Can be done in conjunction with the Kanangra trip immediately before. → Mix of S, M, L walks, overall M. ↗ Up to 700m Maps: Mt Wilson, Katoomba, Jamison, Jenolan Transport: TBA Accommodation: Blackheath Caravan Park, in town but relatively peaceful beside creek, has flush toilets, showers, barbeques, $33 per night per site for 2 people. Dunphys is remote, has drop toilets and barbeques, free. Leader: Jeff Bennetts. Book by: Wed 7 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Wed 14 Mar: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk CBC sponsored Map: nil Transport: nil Leader: Michael Morriss. No need to book. See online...

Wed 14 Mar: Wednesday walk M/H - M/R Wednesday walk CBC sponsored Map: nil Transport: nil Leader: John Danaro. No need to book. See online...

Thu 15 Mar: Gavells Hut and Gang Gang Mountain - L/R/X After an early start and a long drive our walk commences at the locked gate on Boundary Trail just off the Snowy Mountains Highway. Along Boundary Trail and Gavells Hut Trail to Gavells Hut then the rest of the day off track through unknown vegetation which may be very scrubby for the last few kilometres. Brilliant vistas if the weather permits. At various stages of the walk we may have views to Mt Nungar then across the plain to the ACT mountains, Mt Tantangara, Tabletop, Jagungal, Lake Eucumbene and Adaminaby. Total climb of 800 m. Distance 20+ km. For fit and reasonably quick walkers only. → 20+ kilometres ↗ Approximately 800 ↘ Approximately 800 Map: Denison Transport: To be calculated on the day (approximately $35 per person) Limit: 8 participants Leader: Phillip Starr. Book by: Mon 12 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Sat 17 Mar: Rocks and ridge above Breakfast Creek - M/R/Part X Yankee Hat carpark - Franks Hut - ascent to the rocks and ridge above Breakfast Creek. Down a wooded spur to the Old Boboyan Rd and back to the carpark → ~14km ↗ ~400m Map: Yaouk Transport: 100km return, $40 per vehicle Limit: 12 Leaders: Rob Horsfield, Jenny Horsfield. Booking required. See online...

Sat 17 Mar: Toddlers Toddle - Red Hill glades - S/M A 400 metre circuit on gently-sloping grassy ground in Red Hill Nature Reserve, investigating logs, rocks and a tiny gully, designed for families with children up to around 4 years old. The spot is sheltered from most winds. Please be ready to start walking at 10.00 am. We should be finished before noon. No need to book; all welcome. To reach the parking area, from the roundabout at the junction of Stonehaven Crescent and Gowrie Drive, Deakin, drive uphill. At the next junction take the right fork following the sign to Federal Golf Club. Continue for 1km and park in the pull-out area on the bend in Gowrie Drive, about 500 metres before you get to the entrance to the Federal Golf Club. See map. → 400 metres, 1.5 hours ↗ 10 metres ↘ 10 metres Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Lisa Quilter. No need to book. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 24

Activity Program

Sat 17 Mar: Naas River Valley and the flanks of the Clear Range - L/M From Caloola Farm, walk the Naas Valley fire trail, crossing the Naas River 16 times on our return journey. We climb 200m onto the flank of the Clear range via The Forest Trail. The walk is all on fire trails, except for short forays into the bush and over the river for geocaches. Around 25km and 700m climb. GC5H751 Six Streams, GC2BZHF Clear to Caloola: GORGEous?, GC2J5HD Forgotten Gate, GC2J5HC Forgotten Views → 25 ↗ 700 Map: Michelago Transport: Approx $12 per person Leader: John Evans. Book by: Thu 15 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Sat 17 - Sun 18 Mar: Bimberi Peak - M/E This is a good introductory trip for day walkers who would like to try out overnight camping. It also provides an opportunity to climb Bimberi Peak (1913 metres), the highest peak in the ACT. We’ll depart Canberra at 1:00 pm on Saturday and drive via Adaminaby to the locked gate at the northern end of Pockets Saddle Road. With overnight packs we’ll walk to Oldfields Hut where we'll camp overnight (3.5 km). The next morning, with day packs only, we’ll take the trail to Murrays Gap (4.5 km and 200 metres climb). We will ascend Bimberi Peak from Murrays Gap following a footpad to the summit (3.0 km and 390 metres climb). Following morning tea with fabulous 360 degree views we’ll return along the same route back to Oldfields Hut for lunch and then back to the cars. Maps: Rendezvous Creek, Rules Point or Rooftop’s Kosciuszko Northern Activities Transport: ~350km, $140 per car, $35-45 per person Accommodation: Camping in tents outside Oldfields Hut. There is a water tank and pit toilet at the campsite. Limit: 16 Leader: Gerald Dodgson. Book by: Thu 15 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Sat 17 - Sun 18 Mar: Rock Flats - M/R/X A circuit to explore some of Namadgi's flats and frost hollows, in particular Rock Flats, a hidden plain beyond the top of Rendezvous Creek, fringed to the NW by a craggy ridge. After setting up a short car shuffle, we will leave the Orroral tracking station, climb about 300 vertical metres on the Granite Tors Track, then head off- track and west towards the frost hollow on an unnamed creek about 1km south of spot height 1466. Then across the top of Rendezvous Creek to Rock Flats; some thick scrub likely in this section. Are the splodges visible on Google Earth tarns or not? Camp on the fringe of the unnamed swamp about 600 metres SW of Rock Flats, at about 1460m altitude. Then SSE to another frost hollow and down to Rendezvous Creek via a pile of huge granite boulders at spot height 1406. Footpad and track back to the Nursery Swamp carpark. Walkers need prior experience in overnight trips and in walking for some hours in moderate to thick scrub. → Day 1: 10 km 8 hours. Day 2: 9 km in 7.5 hours ↗ Day 1: 700 metres. Day 2: 200 metres ↘ Day 1: 150 metres Day 2: 650 metres Maps: Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Transport: $36 per car Limit: 8 participants Leader: Linda Groom. Booking required. See online...

Mon 19 Mar: Toddlers Toddle - Mount Ainslie Nature Reserve - S/M A woodland circuit of around 500 metres to introduce pre-schoolers to off-track walking. We will explore logs and visit a small secret forest. No need to book. Meet at the top end of Fisher Street (off Duffy Street) Ainslie, ready for a 10am start. 0423 328 009 → 500 metres, 1.5 hours ↗ Less than 10 metres ↘ Less than 10 metres Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Jacqui Rosier. No need to book. See online...

Tue 20 Mar: Tarlo River National Park - L/R A long, mainly off-track walk, through open woodlands, to some interesting conglomerate outcrops. The walk is in the same area as the March 2017 trips, but the route differs. Some scrambling required to explore the rocks. → 19 kilometres ↗ 800 ↘ 800 Map: Chatsbury Transport: 272km return, 1hr 45 minutes drive each way. Limit: 8 Leader: Ian Wright. Book by: Fri 16 Mar, 9:00pm. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 25

Activity Program

Wed 21 Mar: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk BBC sponsored Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Kathy Handel - No need to book. See online... Wed 21 Mar: Wednesday walk M/H - M/R Wednesday walk BBC sponsored Map: nil Transport: nil Leader: Peter Wellman. No need to book. See online... Wed 21 March CBC Monthly Meeting 7.30pm Weston Uniting Church, 16 Parkinson Street, Weston The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Guest Speaker: Meg McKone

Fri 23 - Sat 24 Mar: Naas Valley Fire Trail and Clear Range ride and stride - L/R/Part X On Friday afternoon we’ll drive to the Mt Clear camp ground and ride 9km via Demandering Hut to Horse Gully Hut and camp overnight. On Saturday we’ll ride and push bikes 500 vertical metres up the Left Hand Creek Fire Trail to the crest of the Clear Range. Ride a further 6km north plus 8km of walking to find geocaches. Return down to Horse Gully Hut and ride 4km north for another cache. Then ride back. Around 40km and 1000m climb over a day and a half. Geocaches GC3YZPX Demanding Ride, GC1H4DA Forgotten Summit, GC27GD4 Forgotten Valley, GC2BZH7 Clear to Caloola: The Precipice, GC2BZH5 Clear to Caloola: The Island → Around 40km over a day and a half ↗ Around 1000m climb over a day and a half Map: Colinton Transport: You will need your own transport and mountain bike. I can take one other. Accommodation: Camp beside Horse Gully Hut Leader: John Evans. Book by: Wed 21 Mar, 2:00pm. See online... Mon 26 Mar: Toddlers Toddle - Mount Majura Reserve - S/M A walk designed for kids 18 months to 5 year olds each accompanied by a parent or grandparent. We will follow a track at the foot of Mt Majura until we reach smooth old fallen trees to climb on. Meet at 10am at the informal carpark at the gate marked, 'Clancy's Track' in Antill Street Watson. Address: Clancy's Walking Track, Antill Street; or see Canberra Street Directory, page 40). To reach the car park drive up a rise, on a gravel road parallel to Antill Street, for approx 100 metres. → 1.5 hours, a few hundred metres ↗ Less than 10 metres ↘ Less than 10 metres Maps: Canberra 1:25,000 Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Cynthia Breheny. No need to book. See online...

Wed 28 Mar: Wednesday walk E/M - M/E Wednesday walk CBC sponsored Map: nil Transport: Nil Leader: Jenny Horsfield. No need to book. See online... Wed 28 Mar: Wednesday walk M/H - M/R Wednesday walk NPA sponsored Map: Nil Transport: Nil Leader: Mike Smith. No need to book. See online...

(Thu 29) Fri 30 Mar - Tue 3 Apr: Mt Colong, Mootik Walls, Kowmung River - M/R Experience the southern Blue Mountains from the basalt cap of Mt Colong to the casuarinas of the Kowmung River, with the sandstone cliffs of Mootik Plateau in between on this 4.25 day walk. Drive to Batsh Camp Thurs night. Day 1: From the junction of the Yerranderie Rd and the Mt Armour Fire Trail, walk to Colong Swamp and climb Mt Colong to camp near the spring. If it's been very dry, we will carry extra water 6kms to leave some at the base of Colong Pt for Day 2, and take some < 400 metres up to the summit for overnight. Day 2: From Tonalli Gap, traverse Mootik Walls and descend to camp near the Tonalli River. Day 3: Follow the FT to Mt Armour, then descend to a camp on the Kowmung River near Broken Point. Day 4: Climb Donnellys Ridge and camp near Colong Swamp. Day 5: Several km mainly flat walking back to the cars before lunch. Spectacular views and lovely campsites. Two crossings of the Kowmung R on Day 3 - wet feet, and possibly higher. Also on the CMW program. → Approx 56km over 4.25 days ↗ Approx 1400 metres over 4 days ↘ Approx 1400 metres over 4 days Maps: Bindook, Yerranderie Transport: 492km return, $192 per car. (@0.39 per km) Limit: 8 Leader: Meg McKone. Book by: Mon 26 Mar, 2:00pm. See online... Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 26

Activity Program

Fri 30 Mar - Mon 2 Apr: Jagungal via Bluff Tarn - M/R/Part X A 4-day Easter walk, approaching Mt Jagungal by an unusual and scenic route. Day 1: We'll leave the cars beside the Snowy Plains Road at about Lat -36.19112 Long 148.55197 and head eastwards, though grassy valleys and old-growth forest to Little Doubtful Gap, then past Kidman's hut to camp below or above the Burrungubuggee Gorge. Day 2: Up a scrubby ridge, then across the grassy tops, to the small but beautiful Bluff Tarn, and on to a camp site probably on the banks of the Geehi River. Day 3: With day-packs, up Mt Jagungal (10 km return from our camp site), and then with full packs back towards the Burrungubuggee. Day 4: walk out, retracing our steps of Day 1. Requires warm clothing, warm tents, and warm sleeping bags. Map shows Bluff tarn. → Day 1: 12 km. Day 2: 9 km. Day 3: 17 km. Day 4: 14 km ↗ The main ascent is 700 metres from the cars to Jagungal, with some ups and downs en route ↘ main descent 700 metres, with some other ups and downs Map: See link Transport: 180km, 2.5 hours drive: the Snowy Plains Road requires AWD vehicles Limit: 8 Leaders: Peter Conroy, Linda Groom. Booking required. See online...

Sat 31 Mar: Bimberi Peak (highest peak in ACT) - L/M Depart early from Canberra and Drive via Snowy Mountains Highway, Tantangara Rd and Pockets Saddle Rd to the gate at Gurrangorambla Creek. We will stop for a coffee and breakfast at Adaminaby. Walk the AAWT via Oldfields Hut to Murrays Gap and ascend Bimberi. Return the same. Around 22km and 800m climb. For fit and reasonably quick walkers only. → 22 Km ↗ 800 ↘ 800 Map: Rules Point and Rendezvous Creek Transport: $40 per person Limit: 8 Leader: Phillip Starr. Book by: Thu 29 Mar, 2:00pm. See online...

Tue 3 Apr: Caoura Ridge, Morton National Park - L/R/X The walk starts on the Caoura Road, 21km southeast of Marulan. Most of the day will be off-track, following the cliff-top northeast from Bullan Gap above the Shoalhaven Gorge. We return to the cars through densely forested ridges and rainforest gullies in the catchment of Cumburmurra Creek, and then the Caoura Ridge Firetrail for 2km. The off-track walking requires some scrambling in steep, rocky, and scrubby terrain. → 16 km ↗ 750 ↘ 750 Maps: Caoura, Burrier Transport: 332km return, 2hr 5 min drive each way Limit: 8 Leader: Ian Wright. Book by: Fri 30 Mar, 9:00pm. See online...

Wed 4 Apr: Toddlers ascent of MacArthur Hill - S/M On this walk, designed for kids aged 18 months to around 4 years, we will climb a 'mountain' - MacArthur Hill in the Wanniassa Hills Nature Reserve. We'll head up a stony track, with detours to examine granite boulders and a climbing tree. The top of the hill is flattish, with some open sections with great views, and more granite to explore. Non-members welcome, but if this your 3rd walk with the Club, please consider showing your support by joining. Park in or near the turning circle at the top of Rawlings Place, Fadden, ready to start walking at 10am. → 350 metres return, about 1.5 hours ↗ 30 metres ↘ 30 metres Map: Tuggeranong Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Linda Groom. No need to book. See online...

Sat 7 Apr: TNR Skyline Track south - L/R The Tidbinbilla Range crest divides into two walks and today we’ll do the southern section. Walk the Lyrebird Trail from Mountain Creek car park, climb 500vm to the Snowy Corner cairns, then south along the crest to Mt Domain and so down to Fishing Gap and Fishing Gap car park. Awesome views and some thick scrub. A short car shuttle. Around 12km and 950m climb. Participants should not object to route marking using tape (approved by TNR management). TNR open 7.30am-6pm. Sun shining 6.20am-5.50pm. → 12km ↗ 950m Map: Tidbinbilla Transport: ~$15/person (2 cars needed) Limit: 8 participants Leaders: John Evans, Rob Horsfield. Book by: Thu 5 Apr, 2:00pm. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 27

Activity Program

Sat 14 Apr: Bundanoon - Buchanans Lookout - Christmas Creek - M/M From Bundanoon we follow partly overgrown tracks to Buchanans Lookout and other rarely visited clifftop viewpoints, before descending into the beautiful, dark and mossy rainforest of Christmas Creek. We may also see some relics of mining days. Return the same way. There are many undulations but no major climbs; the biggest is 80m at the end. → 14km ↗ 500m (sum of many small climbs) ↘ 500 m (sum of many small descents) Map: Bundanoon Transport: 300km return, about $117 per car Leader: Jeff Bennetts. Book by: Thu 12 Apr, 2:00pm. See online...

Sat 21 - Sun 22 Apr: Mt Banks and Mt Solitary (Blue Mountains) - M/R Two wonderful walks to iconic Blue Mountains peaks over two days. We will likely do the shorter easier Mt Banks on the first day and the harder longer Mt Solitary on the Sunday. This will however depend on weather. Mt Solitary is a five hour 14km walk involving clambering over sandstone, 400 m ascent. Therefore this is a walk for fit walkers only. → 14km, 5 hours ↗ 400 Map: Jamieson 1:25000 Transport: Depart Canberra at 8:30am Saturday 21 April. Drive 660km, $264 per car Accommodation: I will be staying at the Carrington Hotel in Katoomba on the Saturday night, but other participants might prefer alternative accommodation. Leader: David Dedenczuk. Book by: Mon 16 Apr, 2:00pm. See online...

Sat 21 Apr: A walk through history in the Orroral Valley - S/E Meet at the Orroral River campground just inside Namadgi National Park and walk approx. 4km on a well made track into the Orroral Valley, passing signage that interprets the settlement history of this beautiful valley. After afternoon tea at the homestead with a talk by local historian Jenny Horsfield we return to the cars the same way. A Heritage Festival event in collaboration with MOTH (Minders of Tuggeranong Homestead) → 8km Map: Rendezvous Creek Transport: Drive yourself Limit: 25 Leader: Jenny Horsfield. Book by: Thu 19 Apr, 2:00pm. See online...

Wed 25 Apr: Toddlers Toddle - Aranda bushland - S/M This circuit of about 400 metres is designed for families with toddlers who are keen to explore the natural world. The circuit includes some flat open grassland, a wide gully with climbable banks, and shady forest with big old logs to walk along. Meet, ready to start at 9.45am; should be finished by 11.30am. The nearest Google Maps address to the meeting point is ‘Black Mountain Reserve Car Park’; we will meet about 100 metres south west of that, near a stile that leads over the fence into the Aranda Bushland, on the quiet connector road that forms part of a triangle in the Glenloch Interchange. Map shows meeting point. If you can't see a sign 'Aranda snow gums' and a stile, you're in the wrong carpark. → 400 metres, 1.5hours ↗ Less than 10 metres ↘ Less than 10 metres Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself; the starting point is also easily accessible by bike Leader: Diana Kirby. No need to book. See online...

(Tue 24) Wed 25 - Sun 29 Apr: Blue Breaks - Blue Mountains National Park - M/R/X We will start from Yerranderie and walk up through Tonalli Pass which has extensive views of the Burragorang Walls, Yerranderie Peak and Mt Colong. From here we will drop into Lacys Creek and walk downstream through the large stands of Blue Gums and then further on some wonderful river flats. We will then climb up onto Tonalli Tableland for splendid views back into the Lacys Creek valley. Then it is across to Burragorang Peak for some close-up views of the Wanganderry Walls and then we will head to Clump Hill Head and Tonalli Peak for more great views before descending to the Tonalli River and returning to Yerranderie. Map: Burragorang and a bit of Yerranderie Transport: $200 per car Limit: 6 Leader: Melinda Brouwer. Book by: Fri 20 Apr, 2:00pm. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 28

Activity Program

Fri 27 Apr: Gudgenby Meadows - M/M Looking for a walk in the school holidays? Join us on this circuit in the Gudgenby grasslands, suitable for active families with kids aged 7 and up, and for agile baby-wearing parents. From the Rendezvous Creek car park, south and up 100 vertical metres to a knoll (the main climb of the day), then along a gentle grassy ridge and round to a small hanging swamp where Pheasants Creek enters the grasslands. Mostly off-track short grass or tussock, some grassy track, one gently sloping granite dome and two optional steeper granite outcrops. Map shows our approx lunch spot. In this open country, even a little elevation provides great views of the Gudgenby Valley and its surrounding peaks. Meet at Kambah Shops, in the carpark nearest Marconi Crescent (opposite the petrol station), ready for a prompt 8.30am departure, after which it is a 45 minute drive, all on sealed road. Non-members welcome but if this is your 3rd walk with the Club it's time to show your support by joining. → 11 kilometres, about 4 hours actual walking at the pace of a 7 year-old ↗ 150 metres ↘ 150 metres Map: Rendezvous Creek Transport: $40 per car if shared, or drive yourself. Leader: Linda Groom. No need to book. See online...

Sat 28 - Sun 29 Apr: Sub 27 hours: pack walk to Max and Bert's Hut - M/E/X/W Overnight walk from Caloola Farm to Max and Bert's Hut. 11km mostly on fire trail but last km through the bush. There will be crossings of Naas River so could be a bit wet. Camping outside Max and Bert's Hut so bring a tent. Notice this walk is sub 27 hours. Leave from Tuggeranong around 12 noon. Expected return around 2pm the next day. Walk may have to start earlier and finish later depending on level of Naas River. → around 27 hours ↗ approximately 300 metres ↘ approximately 300 metres Map: Michelago 1:25000 Transport: $28 per car Accommodation: BYO tent, winter sleeping bag, mat etc Limit: 16 Leader: Tim Wright. Book by: Thu 26 Apr, 8:00pm. See online...

Fri 4 May: Toddlers Toddle Mullligans Woodland - S/M A circuit in the woodland of Mulligans Flat Nature Reserve, designed for kids who have started walking, and pre-schoolers. We will walk about 400 metres through pleasant, mostly-open eucalypt forest with a leaf-litter floor. This Toddle has more than the usual number of balancing logs to try, and has some shelter if it's a windy day. No need to book. The meeting point is the dirt car park on the north side of Mulligans Flat road, about 140 metres east of the roundabout at the junction of Mulligans Flat Road and Henry Williams Street, on the outskirts of the suburb of Bonner. → 400 metres, 1 to 1.5 hours ↗ Less than 5 metres ↘ Less than 5 metres Map: Google Maps Transport: Drive yourself Leader: Linda Groom. No need to book. See online...

(Fri 4) Sat 5 - Mon 7 May: Cloudmaker, 100 Man and 1000 Man Caves - L/M Drive to Kanangra Friday evening. From Kanangra Walls, we follow the scenic ridgeline to Mt Cloudmaker and on to 100 Man Cave where we will camp for two nights enjoying the ambience of this great spot. On Day 2 we will do a relaxed day walk over Ti Willa Plateau to 1000 Man Cave. On Day 3, we return to Kanangra Walls, enjoying the spectacular views in the opposite direction. You will need to carry at least 2 litres water on Days 1 and 3. Bring a light day pack for Day 2. → Eight-nine hour days on Days 1 and 3. ↗ 800 metres each on Days 1 and 3. ↘ 800 metres each on Days 1 and 3. Map: Kanangra Transport: ~ 500km return, $195 per car. Accommodation: Camp next to cars at Boyd River campground on Friday night. Limit: 8 Also on the CMW program. Leader: Meg McKone. Book by: Wed 2 May, 2:00pm. See online...

Sun 13 May: Padral Road to Mount Coree - L/R Walking on the ACT border straight line off Pabral Road. Hiking up to Pabral Road from Blundells Flat, then SW through the top of Musk Creek towards Mount Coree. This is very rough country with strong regrowth and will involve some scrambling near Mount Coree. Return via roads → Up to 13km ↗ 600m climb. Maps: Cotter Dam 1:25,000 Transport: Drive: 45km, $18 per car. Leader: David Dedenczuk. Book by: Thu 10 May, 2:00pm. See online...

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 29

Activity Program

Tue 15 - Mon 28 May: Janet’s Final Fourth Flinders Ranges Foray - M/M to L/R This trip is now full and there is already a wait list. Thank you for your interest. Enjoy walking and driving in the beautiful Flinders Ranges and Heysen Trail within the Mt Remarkable and the Wilpena National Parks in SA. Tuesday 15th May arrive at Melrose for 6 nights. Day walks include Dutchmans Stern, Alligator Gorge, Hidden Gorge, and Mt Remarkable. On the rest day, explore Melrose or drive to the Pt Augusta Arid Lands Botanic Gardens. Monday 21st May drive north to Rawnsley Park campground for 7 nights. Day walks include climbing steep and rough Rawnsley Bluff for stunning views of the Wilpena Pound, sightseeing and walking in Aroona Valley, Bunyeroo and Brachina Gorges, Blinman Pools, Wilpena Pound lookouts, along Blacks Gap to Wilpena Pound. Plus a rest day, which you will need after climbing a steep rocky track 700m to St Mary Peak! On Monday 28th, return to Canberra, full of the colours of the Flinders Ranges - its gorges, valleys and hills. There will be an information evening late in March 2018. Please email your expression of interest by 1st November. A joint CBC/BBC activity. Maps: HEMA, NRMA has a reasonable Flinders Map Transport: Roughly 3500km from Canberra to Melrose /Wilpena Pound and return, plus another ~ 900km travelling to the walks = approx. $600 each person. Allow two days for travelling to the Flinders and return. Most roads are sealed. Accommodation: Cabins, your van or tent at two campgrounds: Melrose at the foot of Mt Remarkable and Rawnsley Bluff 17km south of Wilpena Pound. Melrose cabins 2-3 people sharing approx. $250 per person; powered sites $27 per person per night; tents $12 pp pn. Rawnsley Park cabins approx. $500 per person shared; powered sites RP $38 per person per night for 2; tents $14 pp pn. Self-catering, with several group meals. Accommodation needs to be booked asap. Update: a few places left for people in basic cabins with use of amenities block (clean) or who have their own van or tent. Ensuite cabins are booked out; I have started a waiting list Leader: Janet Duncan. Booking required. See online...

Wed 13 Jun: M/H Wednesday Walk - Devil's Peak - M/R/X Walk along fire trails and through forest to knoll SE of Devil's Peak and to Devil's Peak itself. Return through forest and fire trails. Maps: Cotter Dam 1:25,000 Transport: Tba Leader: Tim Wright. No need to book. See online...

Sat 30 Jun - Sat 21 Jul: Pyrenees Haute Route - L/M Nineteen days of walking on the famed Pyrenees High Route on the border of France and Spain, from Lescun to Bagneres-de-Luchon. Stunning alpine scenery. Walking on signposted trails from refuge to refuge, carrying light camping gear as a back-up. Mostly buying meals in the refuges, though occasionally we may have to carry 1 or 2 days of food. Maximum altitude: 2983m. Expressions of interest welcome prior to 14th February via 'Send Booking Request'. Please describe your experience in multi-day walks. → 19 days of walking, including 4 days for rest or climbing nearby peaks ↗ Up to 1500m per day ↘ Up to 1500m per day Map: tba Transport: Arrange your own transport to Pau, France, and after the walk from Bagneres de Luchon onwards. Limit: Limit applies Leader: Karen Cody. Book by: Wed 14 Feb, 2:00pm. See online...

(Wed 18) Thu 19 - Sun 29 Jul: West MacDonnells NP: Hugh Gorge area and Mount Razorback area - M/R/Part X These dates are approx. Two off-track walks, 11 days total. 1. Hugh Gorge area (7 days): Walk up Hugh Gorge to the "Macrozamia Amphitheatre" and explore the peaks at the NW end of the Gorge; head W along the northern side of the Chewings Range; cross to the southern side at "Pyramid Gorge" (including "Spiral Canyon"); explore other gorges on the way back to Hugh Gorge. 2. Mt Razorback area (4 days): From Redbank Gorge, walk to the SE creek off Razorback and set up a base camp in an attractive gorge with an excellent pool nearby; a day circuit of Razorback summit and the lower ridge to the E; another day trip to explore the full length of the SE gorge and its major tributaries; return to Redbank Gorge. Beautiful gorges and panoramic views. Spinifex, rocky ground, some very steep slopes, rock scrambling, but at a moderate pace with the majority of days being fairly short. For experienced multi-day pack walkers who don't mind a bit of exposure when climbing. Stoves only. Bookings close 4 March 2.00pm. Maps: West MacDonnells NP, Maps 1 and 2 Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 30

ActivityActivity ProgramProgram

Transport: Bus transport organised from Alice Springs. Accommodation: Motel or similar in Alice Springs for the nights before and after the trip. Limit: Eight. Also on the CMW program Leader: Meg McKone. See online...

Wed 5 - Sat 29 Sep: 17 Days Walking Trip in Slovenia and Croatia in Sept 2018 - L/M We are aware that walkers of the Canberra and Brindabella Bushwalking Clubs are a fit bunch and like to plan ahead so Terrylea R and Janet D are planning an overseas walking trip in Slovenia and Croatia next year 2018 for your consideration. We intend staying at the towns of Ribcev Laz, Kransky Gora and then Bled in Slovenia and from these towns do approximately 14 day walks using public transport, where necessary. Walkers can do more walks if weather permits but we've also allowed for 3 rest days. From here we plan to travel to the Plitivice Lakes National Park, Croatia for 3 days of walks, staying in cabins. Interested members should be fit (ie Medium-Hard Wednesday walks fitness level), know basic first aid and willing to possibly lead some of the walks. Further details will be posted out in 2018 including dates and early costings. Please note that numbers will be limited and, if necessary, a wait list will be established. Please use 'Request a booking' to express interest, and add any comments e.g. 'Very interested but depends on ...' in the Comments box. Map: Kranjska Gora 1:30000 and Nationalpark Triglav.Kranjska Gora.Planica.Blec 1:35000 Transport: General costs will include your airfare to Slovenia, transport to Croatia, National Park entrance fees, all meals and public transport to and from the day walks. Participants will need to arrange their airfares and other transport to Slovenia. Participants may also need to arrange their own transport to the Slovenia accommodation. Accommodation: Accommodation will be in hotels in nearby villages with the aim of being within walking distance, easy public transport to the beginning of each walk. Limit: Numbers will be limited. Leaders: Terrylea Reynolds, Janet Duncan. Book by: Wed 28 Feb, 2:00pm. See online...

(Thu 6) Sat 8 - Fri 21 Sep: Granite Belt National Parks, NSW and Qld - M/M/Part X Car camping with day and optional overnight walks in Sundown, Girraween, and Boonoo Boonoo NPs. I plan to do two 3 day walks, one in Sundown and one in Girraween. Beautiful rivers, big waterfalls, huge granite tors, spring flowers. See article in December 2017 IT for more detail about the country. The three day walk in Sundown NP will be partly exploratory for the leader and may entail some wading in the river. Map: See leader Transport: Drive to Tenterfield, northern NSW and beyond. Accommodation: Base camping in National Parks (tents or small vans), some of which will need to be pre-booked. Leader: Meg McKone. Book by: Sun 1 Jul, 2:00pm. See online...

Hot possum - photographed on Mount Ainslie during the January heatwave by Matthew Higgins

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 31

ActivityBBulletinulletin Program B Boardoard

The Bulletin Board is for members to advertise (at no cost) goods for sale, private trips or other personal bushwalking-related matters. The Club is not involved in, takes no responsibility for, and does not endorse, the activities or goods advertised here. Hence, if people participate in any activities advertised here, they do so as private individuals, not as members of the Club, and will not be covered by the Club’s insurance. Notices for the Bulletin Board should be emailed to the Walks Secretary [email protected]

Invitation to 2018 NSW & ACT Ski-Orienteering Championship, Perisher Valley, Nordic Shelter, 12th August 2018, Starting 9.30am This event forms part of XC Ski week (www.perisherxcountry.org ) with the start in front of the beautiful Nordic Shelter at Perisher. Everyone who loves or dreams of trying Skiing or Orienteering, will be able to take an opportunity to combine both skills and to take part. It is the only Ski-O event in Australia and among the only few in the Southern Hemisphere. There will be three types of events: Ski-Orienteering (Individual), Short (about 2.5km), Middle (about 5km) and Long (about 7.5km); Snogaine (teams of 2-3); and Family Treasure-Hunt (adults with kids). Entry fees apply. Please register through Eventor starting April 2018; non-orienteers are welcome to register at Eventor too or to send registration to [email protected]. Inquiries to David Poland [email protected]

Trekking in the Indian Himalaya: Ladakh-Zanskar traverse and mountains, forests & meadows of Garhwal (Note: this trip has been very substantially revised since my last notice.) I am planning an extended trekking trip in the Indian Himalaya in August-September, using a local trekking agency. The trip will comprise two stages; participants can undertake both or either of these stages.

The first stage is a three-week trek across a large swathe of Ladakh and Zanskar, crossing several high passes and encompassing some of Ladakh/Zanskar's most spectacular scenery. It finishes at the Leh-Manali Road, and we will then have a number of rest days in the hill stations of Manali and Shimla and in the attractive Sangla Valley in Kinnaur district. The second stage is a 14-day trek in the Garhwal region of Uttarkhand state, linking two walking routes - the very scenic Rupin Pass and Har Ki Dun treks - and ending with a crossing of Bali Pass, down to the holy Hindu site of Yamunotri.

The first stage is demanding and requires a high level of fitness; the second stage is an easier trek, though the two days spent crossing Rupin Pass and Bali Pass will be more demanding. If you think you might be interested in either or both parts of this trip, I have prepared a detailed information sheet that I can forward. Ian Turland, email [email protected]; tel 0452-110-212. As I will be travelling during March and the first half of April and may not always have immediate access to my emails, I suggest you also direct emails to [email protected], my brother's email address.

Canberra Bushwalking Club it February 2018 page 32