Mount Burbidge gazetted In search of a great cappuccino NPA BULLETIN Volume 29 number 4 December 1992

CONTENTS Naming of Mount Burbidge 6 From the Blues to Hugo's 8 Walkers' responsibilities 10 Travellers' tales (part two) 12 America by campervan (part two) 15 Cover Wilderness submission 17 Photo: Reg Alder Baldur Byles 18 NPA and Parks and Conservation Division President's annual report 20 members at the start of the Yankee Hat track. Mount Burbidge is in the centre Paddling the Murrumbidgee 23 background.

National Parks Association (ACT) Subscription rates (1 July - 30 June) i Incorporated Household members $20 Single members $15 Inaugurated 1960 Corporate members $10 Bulletin only $10 Concession: half above rates For new subscriptions joining between: Aims and objects of the Association 1 January and 31 March - half specified rate • Promotion of national parks and of measures for the pro­ 1 April and 30 June - annual subscription tection of fauna and flora, scenery and natural features in Membership enquiries welcome the Australian Capital Territory and elsewhere, and the Please phone Laraine Frawley at the NPA office. reservation of specific areas. • Interest m the provision of appropriate outdoor recreation The NPA (ACT) office is located in Kingsley Street, areas. Acton. Office hours are: • Stimulation of interest in, and appreciation and enjoyment 10am to 2pm Mondays of, such natural phenomena by organised field outings, 9am to 2pm Tuesdays and Thursdays meetings or any other means. Telephone: (06) 257 1063 • Co-operation with organisations and persons having simi­ Address: GPO Box 457 Canberra 2601. lar interests and objectives. • Promotion of, and education for, nature conservation, and Contribute to your Bulletin the planning of land-use to achieve conservation. Contributions of articles (news, description or fiction), black-and-white photographs and line drawings are Office-bearers and Committee keenly sought for the Bulletin. Please label photo-^^ President Beverley Hammond 288 6577(h) graphs with the name of the subject, the name of thc^ft photographer and the date. Leave contributions at the Vice-President Dianne Thompson 288 6084(h); office or phone the editor, Roger Green, on 244 7558(w); 244 7934(fax w). (06) 247 0059. The editorial fax is (06) 249 7373. Immediate Past President Les Pyke 281 2982(h) Articles by contributors may not necessarily reflect Secretary Len Haskew 281 4268(h) Association opinion or objectives. Treasurer Mike Smith 286 2984(h); 248 3624(w) Deadline for March issue: 1 February, 1993.

Subcommittee conveners NPA Bulletin is produced by Green Words for the Environment Tim Walsh 285 1112(h); 274 1465(w) National Parks Association (ACT) Incorporated. It is Len Crossfield 241 2897(h); 263 3536(w) produced with the assistance of an ACT Heritage grant. Outings Michael Kelly 241 2330(h) Namadgi Syd Comfort 286 2578(h) Printed on recycled paper by Union Offset Co Pty Ltd, Fyshwick, ACT. Other Committee members Neville Esau 286 4176(h); 249 9500(w) ISSN 0727-8837 Clive Hurlstone 288 7592(h); 246 5516(w) Doreen Wilson 288 5215(h) Graham Guttridge 231 4330(h) President's foreword Five members of the Namadgi sub­ committee spent a profitable day on 26 October in the Namadgi National Park with senior officers of the ACT Parks and Conservation Service. The occa­ sion provided an opportunity for us to share ideas on recent and ongoing projects, to discuss man­ agement issues and to explore pos­ sibilities for our current and future programs. The meeting was initiated and planned by Diane Garrood, recently appointed manager of Conservation and Wildlife who is getting to grips with the parame- |Bters of her new position as quickly ™^as possible. We were also accompa­ nied by John Thwaite, general manager of Parks and Conservation, Brian Terrill and Greg Hayes who have responsibili­ In our last issue our active President was featured, so it is perhaps ties for Namadgi and the appropriate that she should be shown in her other mode. Murrumbidgee corridors respec­ Photo by Reg Alder tively and by'senior ranger Margot Sharp. to note that a new sign near the After lunch at the Orroral camp­ stile at the road access acknowl­ ing area we drove to the Gudgenby I will briefly mention the issues edges the combined efforts of our property. Two sub-committee discussed as it is important for Association and the Parks Service. members are on the consultative NPA members to be aware of Work is yet to be commenced on group formed to resite the Yankee developments in the national park plastering internal stone walls for Hat carpark. Its location and for­ for which our Association has lob­ which we have committed the mation need to be carefully bied for oyer thirty years. remainder of our heritage grant. planned and executed. Disturbed The ACT Government policy on Once chimneys have been com­ rocks, which were hastily removed insurance for volunteers is still pleted, windows and doors have from the carpark surrounds, will in draft form and practicalities are been secured and the site has been be placed as carefully as possible yet to be detailed. However, work tidied up, interpretive signs in holes of appropriate size once parties will require prior formal explaining the heritage values of the ground has hardened. We have i^fendorsement by the Parks and the homestead will be erected. offered the services of a member to Conservation area manager, will Hopefully this will show that the assist with this task. need to be supervised by someone area is valued and under supervi­ The Boboyan pine trees will who has attended a training sion and vandalism will be course on safe working practices be removed by Forestry, probably deterred. Reg Alder and several in 1994-95. The Parks and and will require a list of names of park workers will soon install participants. Conservation Service will be devel­ corner footing posts in the style of oping strategies for restoration of Environmental values will the original building. We have the area, removal of self-seeded play a greater part in specifica­ offered our services to lime wash pines and reseeding with local spe­ tions for maintenance work in the external walls and to launch other cies. Willows by the homestead are park. It is appreciated that fire work parties as . required. increasing in number and have and maintenance trails must be Stabilisation of the shearing shed been the subject of service studies. kept open to provide ready access. is soon to begin. Babette Scougall pointed out the We discussed damage caused by The Orroral tracking station role played by exotic trees and vehicles in soft areas such as demolition has almost been com­ plants in locating early settle­ Grassy Creek, cutting of trees for pleted. Interpretive signs will illus­ ments. It was agreed that control use in blocking off tracks and the trate the significance of various measures are needed to prevent intensive use of Namadgi during areas of the site. It is likely the the spread of some species. large organised events. current car park will be retained The recording of Aboriginal The meeting adjourned to the for visitor use and that planted involvement in the Gudgenby Orroral homestead where John gardens of exotics will remain, area was to begin the following Feint, manager of the Heritage with the exclusion of species likely day. Joan Goodrum has been Unit, joined us. We were pleased to become invasive. continued on page 4 President's foreword continued from page 3 Letter to the editor invited to join in initial surveys. A Dear Sir willows are removed. These data bank of heritage sites is being In response to Fiona MacDonald include river oaks (Casuarina cun- compiled and we will soon be Brand's question in the last ninghamiana) and manna gums informed of the avenues we can Bulletin on the place of willows in (Eucalyptus viminalis). In higher use to access the register and to the Australian scene, I have to country black sallee (Eucalyptus add to it. statefirmly that, from a conserva­ stellulata), black gum (Eucalyptus On our return to the Namadgi tion point of view, the willow must aggregata) and swamp gum Visitors' Centre the ACT segment go! (Eucalyptus camphora) are of the Melbourne to Canberra Alps I am aware that some cultural appropriate. Walking Track was studied on the map. It is proposed to go from landscape devotees argue that wil­ The Tasmanian Forestry Murray's Gap to Cotter Gap, lows offer useful evidence of points Commission's publication Orroral, Honeysuckle Creek, of European settlement and in Tasforests (Volume 4, July 1992) Booroomba Rocks, Mount Tennent some cases are an important com­ contains an article giving the and so to the Visitors' Centre. Syd ponent of a significant cultural Hydro-electric Commission's rec­ Comfort and other NPA members landscape. This may be so, but ommendations for Total will join service personnel soon to their potential to harm river land­ Catchment Management. The arti­ explore the Booroomba segment, scapes in Australia means that cle quotes a survey by the Liffeyj as a low-key track will be formed they should be removed from areas Land Care Group that found thafl by Australian Trust for of riverine conservation impor­ willows were a significant cause of Conservation Volunteers in tance. river bank erosion, along with December. The track will not be A recent Australian National livestock and block/logjams. promoted as a walk from the Parks and Wildlife Service-funded I know that willows have been centre. report on environmental weeds used in some soil conservation found that riverine habitats right work, mainly in New Zealand. Located on a recent extension to across Australia face the greatest Even so, willow has been recog­ Namadgi National Park is the threat of weed invasion.Willow nised as a major problem in some Mount Tennent homestead, was identified as one of the major districts there too. From the read­ consisting of pise and pine slab invaders of this habitat. Not only ing I have done and close observa­ houses, shearing shed, an orchard does willow displace native species tion of riverine environments and other out-buildings. Once and reduce diversity, but it dis­ where willows grow and indeed work has been done here, it is rupts the whole river system, are spreading rapidly, I feel they likely to be added to walks casual changing stream flow, patterns of must be removed and replaced by visitors can do from the centre. sedimentation and the nature of the original native vegetation. It is A walking" track is proposed in faunal habitat. not a question of keeping two or the from the Orroral valley Within the ACT, willow is three in a landscape—like rabbits camping area up to the homestead already a dominant presence along they multiply alarmingly! and tracking station. It is expected otherwise naturally vegetated to be widely promoted and needs to creeks and rivers. White willow Timothy Crosbie Walsh be well sited for heavy impact, (Salix alba) is the most abundant especially given the swampy species but weeping willow (Salix nature of the river valley. Several babylonica) and crack willow routes have been proposed and we (Salix fragilis) are common. Recent Namadgi have offered to be part of the team work done for a PhD thesis at which makesfinal determinations . ANU by Michael Mulvaney indi­ brumby yards Feral animal control programs cates that the willow has a high Have you ever seen any continue. We took the opportunity potential for further spread. This brumby trapyards during your to invite Peter Banks to address is particularly worrying for river­ walks in Namadgi? If you have, our March meeting on his fox ine habitats such as the Gudgenby I would like to hear from you. I studies. River where willow is present, but am doing a survey of these NPA (ACT) values its ongoing as yet does not have a strangle­ sorts of structures and close collaboration with the Parks hold on the system, as it does although I know of a number of and Conservation Service. A major along the Molonglo. sites, I am sure that there are advantage of living in an area as quite a few more, some of which small as the ACT is that we can The association Towards may have been seen by NPA develop personal relationships Ecologically Sustainable Aust­ walkers. Any information will with government officers and can ralian Landscapes strongly recom­ be very much appreciated. represent the community in deci­ mends against the planting of Please contact me on 247 7285 sion-making to the benefit of our willow along watercourses and (work and home) or at 99 Duffy national park. provides a number of alternative Street, Ainslie, 2602. species, native to the ACT, that Beverley Hammond can be used as replacements when Matthew Higgins COMMITTEES Environment sub-committee The environment sub-committee eco-tourism and its effects on pro­ New continues to respond to all manner tected areas, Aboriginal involve­ of environmental and conservation ment in national parks; in issues at both the Commonwealth association with the Namadgi sub­ consultative and ACT level. Subjects of recent committee and especially in rela­ interest have included proposals to tion to southeast Australia, and committee allow mining in national parks, coastal management strategies at especially in Tasmania; the the state and Commonwealth Conservation interests are well recently released discussion paper level. Particular interest is being represented on the newly recon­ Jervis Bay—Our Heritage, Our taken by the sub-committee in the stituted ACT Environment and Future; responses to proposals for range of current threats to Conservation Consultative wilderness declarations in NSW; national parks including increased Committee which met for the first the recent community history pressures to allow commercial time on 28 October. forum in the ACT; proposed biodi­ activities within parks. The committee, which grew out versity and endangered species The sub-committee played a of the Namadgi National Park legislation and the Review of major part in drafting NPA ACT Consultative Committee estab­ Environmental Factors for the motions for this year's meeting of lished in 1984, advises the Construction of Facilities in the the Australian National Parks Minister on issues relating to the 'Murramurang National Park. Council on: ACT environment, including park A particularly well attended and • Aboriginal involvement in management, nature conserva­ lively evening was held in August national parks tion, urban open space manage­ when we were fortunate to have as ment and outdoor recreation. our special guest the redoubtable • ecologically sustainable develop­ It now also advises on the imple­ Milo Dunphy. Milo gave us a ment and tourism mentation of the ACT's Decade of detailed explanation of wilderness • biological diversity and protected Landcare Plan and acts as an and national park issues in NSW areas assessment panel for ACT alloca­ and stimulated us to consider fur­ • threatened species legislation tions under the National Land ther a number of alarming propo­ Care Program. sals affecting nature conservation The sub-committee welcomes being pursued by the NSW new members and can promise Members have been appointed Government. jobs for all! by the Minister on three-year Themes being followed by the Timothy Walsh terms. They are Professor Peter sub-committee currently include Cullen (chairperson), Den Robin (deputy chairperson), Fiona Brand, Christine Purdon, Ian Aquifers at risk: Fraser, Brian Lawrence, Dr David Smiles, Anne Taylor, Peter Towards a national Buckmaster, Rodney Falconer, groundwater quality- Jacqueline Rees and Matilda perspective House. As well as Anne, Fiona and Den, The Australian National •|^Sptie|ii^ another familiar NPA face is Dr University's Centre for Continuing Kevin Frawley who attends under "consistently^^ Education is sponsoring a confer­ p^lAustral^ his National Capital Planning ence in Canberra from 15-17 Authority hat as an officer assist­ February 1993, in cooperation ing the committee. with the Australian Geological Tur~bnj.^ljey^ The consultative committee's Survey Organization (formerly first meeting was taken up mostly BMR), to provide a scientific and with introductory matters and community forum on a range of jWsleslffbTM Minister Bill Wood dropped in for groundwater quality issues. This 1 morning tea. The committee will the • goldfleld's /history Trom 1851 conference will be the ninth in the hold a planning day on 28 series Issues in Water November to develop its work Management. program. InteYstate]^ For further information, please ismall'lf^ contact: As in the past, NPA's official Shirley Krai representative Anne Taylor will Centre for Continuing Education report regularly in the Bulletin, but in the meantime if any mem­ Australian National University bers want to know more about the GPO Box 4, Canberra, 2601 committee's activities, please get Telephone (06) 249 4580 in touch with Anne. •S£reeif^r^Ii^^ Fax (06) 257 3421 Naming of Mount Burbidge

On 8 October 1992 the England during 1939-40. She Department of the Environment, obtained a M.Sc. degree and stud­ Land and Planning officially ied the ecology and taxonomy of gazetted the name 'Mount Western Australian plants for Burbidge' in Namadgi National three years while working at the Park. This came about as a result Institute of Agriculture, of a submission by NPA in University of Western Australia September 1991. In this submis­ (1941-42) and at the Western sion it was suggested that the Australian Forest Department name of Mt Burbidge be given to (1942—43) and her publications in an unnamed peak 1720 metres this period were on ecology and high (map reference Rendezvous also a revision of the Western Creek—1:25 000, 714461) in Australian species of Triodia. Namadgi National Park. It can be best viewed as a prominent peak She became assistant agrono­ from near the Boboyan forest car mist at the Waite Agricultural park, as can also Mt Kelly and Research Institute, Adelaide in( Namadgi. 1943, working on native pasture regeneration in the arid and semi- Mt Burbidge in the centre of arid areas of South Australia. In Namadgi National Park forms a 1946 Nancy was appointed sys­ triangle with two adjacent peaks, tematic botanist in the Division of one Namadgi, the name given by Plant Industry of the CSIRO in the Aborigines to the peaks south­ Canberra. Initially she was to pro­ west of Canberra, and the other Nancy Burbidge vide an identification service for Mt Kelly, named after an early at Longreach, Queensland and other CSIRO staff; Nancy soon settler. It is appropriate that the Eleanor teaching in Sydney. They organised and expanded the plant peak has been named after an married in England on 3 October collections, leading to the estab­ indefatigable worker for the dec­ 1906. There are several photo­ lishment of the Herbarium laration of a national park in the graphs of this celebration. William Australiense. ACT and so completes a triad of later became an Archdeacon. names relating to the history of Nancy had one older brother In the years 1953-54, Nancy Namadgi National Park. Edward Humphrey Burbidge was the Australian botanical liai­ (born 1907) who is an Anglican son officer at Kew Herbarium and The name Burbidge fulfils the during this period she photo­ fifth criteria of the ACT Parks and priest in Western Australia. The name 'Tyson' was from the family graphed and indexed many type Conservation policy for the specimens of Australian plants in naming of geographic features, of the maternal grandmother. There are several pictures of the Kew Herbarium. This greatlyJ that is, 'Names of prominent per­ assisted the botanical research of™ sons in the area's development.' Nancy at five and six years of age and pictures of her parents over Australian botanists. She pub­ George Chippendale of the NPA some years and some of other lished revisions of a number of wrote a brief biography of Nancy members of the family. plant groups in the years 1956-65 for the Australian Dictionary of The family came to Australia in and the important Phyto- Biography, and the volume in 1913 where William was geography of the Australian which this will be printed will be appointed to the Parish of Region (1960) which contributed published soon. Following are Katanning, Western Australia. to her award of the first degree of some of the notes from this Because education beyond state Doctor of Science ever given to a biography. school was not available at the woman by the University of Nancy Tyson Burbidge, botanist, time, Nancy's mother started the Western Australia. Other publica­ conservationist and advocate for Kobeelya Church of England tions include Wattles of the ACT women's issues, was born on Girls' School at Katanning in an (1961), Dictionary' of Australian 5 August 1912 at the Vicarage, old residence of that name which Plant Genera (1963), Gum Trees of Cleckheaton, in Yorkshire, Nancy attended, proceeding to the ACT (1963), The Plants of the England, only daughter of Bunbury High School for her final ACT (1963, with Max Gray), William Burbidge and his wife year. Nancy graduated from the Australian Grasses vol 1 (1966), Mary Eleanor (known as Eleanor) University of Western Australia vol 2 (1968), vol 3 (1970), Flora of nee Simmonds. William and Mary in 1937, with an Honours Degree the ACT (1970, with Max Gray) met on a voyage to Australia in in botany and with a Free Passage and Plant Taxonomic Literature about 1900, William becoming a Scholarship with which she spent in Australian Libraries (1978, ed. member of the Bush Brotherhood 18 months at the Kew Herbarium, Alison McCusker). In the above list, the booklets on Gum Trees of Nancy Burbidge became a Perth. Then in 1980 she was com­ the ACT and Wattles of the ACT member of the Australian memorated by the establishment show that Nancy was as interested Federation of University Women of the Nancy T. Burbidge in providing useable information after she graduated in 1937 and Amphitheatre in the National for people generally as she was in continued to be a member Botanic Gardens, Canberra, this her more scientific publications. throughout her life, serving as being for open-air lectures, teach­ Many of her publications were also president of the Canberra branch ing, poetry readings, weddings illustrated by her drawings. from 1959-61 and leading the and other such functions. This From July 1973 to March 1977, Canberra delegates in Perth in was, indeed, a most fitting tribute, Nancy was director of the Flora of 1962 when a national conference close to the heart of Canberra to Australia Project, sponsored by was held. which she contributed so much, the Australian Academy of Nancy was international secre­ and surrounded by Australian Science, but remained on the staff tary of the Pan Pacific and plants to which she devoted her of the Herbarium Australiense. Southeast Asia Women's life. This reflected both her botanical Association 1961-68, and was In his book As I Remember knowledge and her competence in second vice-president 1968-72. In Them (1987), Noel Stewart states, administration. this association, Nancy joined 'Anyone who was a contemporary Not only love of working with other women in advancing of Nancy at the university will plants,-- but also love of the women's causes over a wide range, remember a quietly conscientious Australian bush led to Nancy's including scholarships for student with a great sense of fun, deep involvement in the conserva­ Aboriginal women and, with other but also a tremendous dedication tion movement. She was a founda­ women's organisations, worked for to the subject that was to be her tion member of the National Parks the establishment of a residence life's work.' Obituaries were pub­ Association of the ACT in 1960, hall for women at the University lished by William Hartley in and in the early days she person­ of Papua New Guinea. Brunonia 1:123-9, 1977, by Kath ally convinced people to support Nancy was also involved with McDonald in the Australian this group so that it became the the Royal Society of Canberra, Fellowship of University Women main conservation body in the serving as president and on its Newsletter 62,5 May 1977, and ACT. Her own commitment, firstly committees; this society was dis­ also by Kath McDonald in the as founding secretary, committee solved in about 1974. NPA Bulletin 2-5, March 1980. member for 11 years, leader of She was secretary of the George Chippendale always innumerable walks and as presi­ Systematic Botany Committee of remembers Nancy as believing dent for two terms, guided the ANZAAS which published, from that NPA fostered social, friendly Association to have areas of the 1947 until February 1954, contact, as well as working for the ACT protected and also, after Australasian • Herbarium News aims of the Association. many years of submissions, led to which attempted to keep system­ the declaration of much of the atic botanists in Australia and An illustration of a currant bush southern part of the territory as New Zealand in touch with one drawn by Nancy Burbidge. Namadgi National Park. Much of another, and she was active in Nancy often illustrated her own her love of bushland is expressed establishing the Australian publications. in the publication Mountains, Systematic Botany Society which lopes and Plains (AGPS 1971) took over the role begun by the which was a composite manuscript above committee. In 1973, Nancy by members of the National Parks was the prime mover in establish­ Association of the ACT, but con­ ing the Committee of Heads of tributed to and encouraged by Australian Herbaria which has Nancy. The series of drawings since then attempted to coordinate entitled Eyes or No Eyes by Nancy projects and procedures in in the NPA Bulletin were a charm­ Australian and New Zealand ing feature of that periodical. herbaria. Nancy also contributed to discus­ sions and decisions while a In 1971, Nancy was awarded the member of the ACT National Clarke Medal from the Royal Conservation Committee and the Society of NSW for distinguished Tidbinbilla Fauna Reserve work in natural science and in Committee at a time when 1976, she was honoured by being Gibraltar Falls was being devel­ appointed a Member of the Order oped and the Tidbinbilla Fauna of Australia for her service to sci­ Reserve was being reclaimed from ence and the community. A year grazing. Nancy's involvement in after her death on 4 March 1977 this sphere was as much a contri­ she was also commemorated with bution to the general public as to an altar-frontal, showing banksias the Association or committees. and honey-eaters, at St Michael's Anglican Church, Mt Pleasant, From the Blues to Hugo's After reading Robert Sloss's Board's gauging Guidebook to the 'Ensign station on the Barrallier' route from Katoomba Cox's River. From to Mittagong I was anxious to there we waded attempt the walk which Sloss upstream until describes as 'the most exhilarat­ we found the ing experience of a lifetime'. large dead casua- Wondering how I would find like- rina that Sloss's minded companions I hit upon the notes assured us idea of seeking out dedicated marked the coffee drinkers who would be beginning of tempted by promises of excellent Bungalooloo coffee at Katoomba and again at Spur. The spur Mittagong, especially if I glossed certainly was a over the 150 odd kilometres 'lulu', starting off between cappuccinos. very steeply and The con worked and Good seeming to go on Friday saw eight of us boarding forever relent­ the 6am train at Canberra en lessly upward. route to Katoomba where the The top of the promised excellent coffee was spur has several found at the Blues Cafe. groves of casuari- After a night of heavy rain nas dotted Saturday dawned fine but foggy around and we and after giving details of our pro­ guessed that this posed expedition to the Katoomba gave rise to its Police we were deposited at the name of Oak locked gate at Narrowneck Terrace. The top Peninsular about 9.15am. Despite of Oak Terrace is our unaccustomed heavy loads wide and feature­ and the fog hiding the views, we less and the foot set out in fine style and strode pad we had been along the fire trail. Idon' t think following became we really missed the views very vague. because we were all very much Without much Lowering packs down Tarros Ladder preoccupied with thoughts of difficulty, though, Photo by Len Haskew negotiating Tarro's Ladder. This we picked up a ladder consists of steel spikes path over Wonga about 1 metre apart down a 20 Mountain and then we followed short stretches of shallow rapids metre or so cliff face. Den was some animal tracks which Thebanks were lined with magnif­ first down and showed us all that dropped down very steeply to Ti- icent gums and casuarinas alter­ the trick was to use the spikes as Willa Creek and the Kowmung nating with ferny glades and wide, hand holds and to let our feet look River. Here we found a magnifi­ grassy fiats.Th e river beckoned at after themselves. Peter and David cent grassy campsite on the banks Frost lowered our packs down by morning tea and lunch time and of what must surely be the most its beauty proved to be something rope and we all descended without beautiful river in the Blue incident. After lunch at the foot of of a trap causing us to end up Mountains. (All eight of us are camping well short of our project the ladder we followed the foot determined to return to Kowmung pad over Mt Debert to Medlow campsite at Kiaramba Creek country). Our day concluded with having only walked (and swum) Gap. We found the Gap rather a very welcome swim after our about 17.5 kilometres. over-used and degraded and 19km journey. walked another couple of kilome­ Rain fell all night and made me tres or so until David Hall found Day three was an extremely reluctant to attempt the necessary an excellent campsite. In all we'd pleasant and relatively easy day. several rocky river crossings covered about 16 kilometres. We began by crossing the between us and Kiaramba as I was Kowmung and then following sure that they would be rather Day two was much more testing animal tracks along the eastern slippery. So a decision was made both physically and navigation- bank of the river. We found the to go up Murragin Ridge to the wise. After travelling mainly Kowmung to be a beautiful, clean Scott's Main Range firetrail . Like downhill we arrived at the Water river with deep, inviting pools and ail other Blue Mountains ridges we encountered, this one began entrance to the Pass well ahead of ers but many of these had disap­ steeply and seemed to go on for­ us all. The last climb is about 40 peared, some through the action ever. It was rather overgrown and metres or so and it is almost of floods or other 'natural' causes wet. We all had the feeling that straight up. We were glad that we but in some areas we had the we must be the first walkers to were ascending as coming down impression that they had been use this ridge but eventually we with full packs could have its deliberately removed. The two- came across a cairn and the moments. At the top we duly metre high bracken and the remains of two fences so our fanci­ signed the log book and took prickly scrub close to the river ful notion was soon dispelled. photos to record our success. banks made the going tough at Once we reached the fire trail eve­ Daylight was fading fairly quickly times. Nevertheless there were rybody pounded towards down the rocky and interesting many highlights to be remem­ Yerranderie at their own pace. By Travis Gully to our projected bered. When we were able to now the early morning fog had campsite at Vineyard Flat on the follow Sloss's route (and Robyn cleared and we had some fine Nattai River. However we found could see a blue marker from a views of Mt Kowmung and the the Flat covered with head-high distance of at least 500 metres) we Axehead Range. After crossing the bracken and we ended up camping found that he would take us away Tonalli River (and turning up our (quite comfortably) on an over­ from the obvious route to pass noses at the smell!) we were soon grown fire trail. In all we had cov­ through, for example, a small at the Water Board's campsite at ered about 30 kilometres but forest of paper bark which was found the day much easier than almost cathedral-like in the way it M ^Terranderie well pleased with our we had expected. filtered the sunlight. The Nattai, fBlmost 22 kilometres. although badly polluted, flows Day five was a much-needed rest Our next three days were spent through magnificent scenery. Our and laundry day. We relaxed following the Nattai River. We second day on the Nattai saw us watching the local kangaroos and expected this to be fairly easy scrambling through the Nattai birds. Some short walks were going and several people we met Gorge. After our thirteenth river taken to view the privately owned at Yerranderie assured us that it crossing I stopped counting. Most village, to inspect the old mine could be done quite easily in two' were fairly rough and rocky and workings or to look at the head­ days. However we all found this to required reasonable vigilance. stones with the sometimes poig­ be the most demanding part of our When we left the gorge and the nant inscriptions in the overgrown journey. Robert Sloss had earlier Nattai we exited by animal tracks cemetery. Fortunately Marti had marked the route with blue mark- which proved to have been made the foresight to ensure that we by feral goats. We were pleased to had dry firewood for tomorrow's reach the tranquillity of Drapers early start. Creek where we had quite a com­ Day six was the day we were all fortable campsite. Our last day rather worried about. We had to was relatively easy going as we cover a minimum of 28 kilometres continued to follow the Nattai. because camping is not permitted The closer we came to Mittagong, on Water Board property. We the easier became the walking. decided to follow the old farming Eventually we reached the point Jfc*acks rather than pound along where we had expected to pick up "Rie Sheepwalk Drive fire trail. the fire trail leading on to the Our relatively faint track tra­ Caravan Park. Instead we picked versed delightfully open country up the Mittagong By-pass and we and gave us the feeling of being in found ourselves finishing off our touch with the pioneers. Just walk by tramping along a couple before we crossed the Jooriland of kilometres of newly-laid River we came upon a herd of 15 concrete! or so wild cattle all in very good condition. We reached the After a more than welcome hot Wollondilly at lunch time and shower at the Caravan Park we found plenty of time to boil the had the second instalment of our billy. After making the 50 metre excellent coffee at Hugo's knee-deep crossing we followed a Restaurant before boarding the Water Board road to Beloon Flat bus for home. and were afforded magnificent In all we'd walked about 160 kil­ views of the Wanganderry Walls. ometres and we were well pleased Eventually we reached a small with ourselves. And rather unbe­ sign pointing to Beloon Pass and lievably nobody said, 'There must once again the steep climbing be an easier way to get a cup of began. Most of us had several coffee'. stops to 'admire the views' but Di Headstone at Yerranderie surged on and reached the final Photo by Len Haskew Len Haskew WALKS

Be prepared—walkers' responsibilities From time to time, and with extra clothing. This should include bush. If lost, stay put, someone increasing membership, we all a rainproof jacket and extra will return to the last point where need to take stock of our responsi­ clothes in the form of jumpers, you were seen, do not move on bilities, especially when partici­ gloves and scarf (all wool if possi­ unless your call has been pating in any of the Outings ble). Failure on just one member's answered and you are sure of the Program activities. part to take this responsibility direction it came from. Above all, While our voluntary leaders could lead to hypothermia for the stay calm, cool and collected and take a great amount of care for culprit. Other members offering have a nibble! each group, there are a number of clothes could lead to further casu­ Food is fuel, carry snacks and aspects where responsibility is alties and problems for the leader eat regularly, more often than at firmly in the hands of the who must put the needs of one home or in the office, as you are participants. irresponsible member before the using up your fuel quicker by safety and enjoyment of the group. 1 Fully check details of outings, activity. Remember, a car cannot A number of layers of clothing are run without petrol! contacting the leader with any better than one bulky one and can queries of any aspect where you be removed or added to as temper­ need clarification. First aid atures rise or fall. This item is your responsibilili^fc 2 If in doubt of your Fitness (or The effect of cold is insidious and and everyone should carry their^^ equipment) choose a lesser walk the person concerned seldom own basics. In the event of a to get the feel of our gradings knows that they are suffering major injury, a pooling of items and descriptions. hypothermia. Be alert to the fol­ may be necessary. If you are the 3 In summer and hot weather, lowing signs and symptoms in unfortunate victim, remember to always carry with you: sun pro­ other members: increasing slow­ return any items that were loaned tective cream (a must even on ness and mental effort, cramps to help you. cloudy days), sun hat, sun and shivers, unreasonable behavi­ It is preferable to make up your glasses, light shirt (for sunburn our or irritability, difficulty in own small kit, especially for the cover) and plenty of liquid. A speech or vision, stumbling or bush, as many bought kits are not light waterproof can also be change in character. suitable. Carry these in a water­ useful if weather is doubtful. Get the patient to shelter and tight container, tin or strong Heat stroke can hit in some cir­ protect from wind, rain or snow. plastic. cumstances—look for headaches, Keep them warm with clothing, At the first sign of a blister irritability, nausea and vomiting, paper or any other insulation, get (from the rubbing of a boot or faintness, cessation of sweating, into a sleeping bag with them if shoe), twisted ankle or knee, send hot dry skin, rise of temperature, possible, and with minimum cloth­ word to the leader to hold up the mental disturbance. For treat­ ing, to give body to body warmth. group and stop to attend to the ment, get patient to a cool place, Give sweet warm drinks and get injury. Continuing to walk will remove clothing, sprinkle with other help as necessary. only make things worse. water or wrap in wet clothes, give Footwear should cover the whole A basic kit should contain: ^ drinks of salt and water. It is very foot and be firm and strong; boots • a small supply of Bandaids of important to replace salt under give protection for those with various sizes these conditions. weak ankles. In wet weather, sneaker type shoes can help lead • a crepe bandage eight centime­ 4 In autumn, spring and espe­ to hypothermia, our extremities of tres wide and pin cially our winter, remember feet, hands, head etc lose heat at a • a triangular bandage that Canberra is at 600 metres quicker rate than any other part of • small and/or large antiseptic and walks often go up to 1500 the body. metres. Gaining height will add dressing (Melolin) a drop in temperature and wind General • a small tube of antiseptic cream at exposed heights can be a Perhaps we could also think of • a few aspirin or other killer. A seven kilometre per such matters as keeping together painkillers. hour wind will take away eight as a group, letting someone know The above are basics. Optional times more body heat than still if you break off for any reason, extras could include splinter air causing the lethal wind chill leaving no litter, stopping to treat tweezers, anti-histamine cream if factor, add to this possible (or get help for) an injury as soon allergic to bites, Hirudoid for both already wet clothing, or rain as possible (see firstai d below) children and adults, which is won­ and snow, and the loss of body and always keeping the front derful for taking the sting out of heat is even greater. person in sight. If you cannot see severe bruises. It is vital that at the above them, stop and 'Coo-ee', do not While most of the above are times of year, individuals face plod on, they may have taken a obvious in their use, may I stress their responsibility and carry turn around rocks or in dense the many uses of a triangular bandage, and not only for first aid. splint. This incident proved the the patient as still as practicable A triangular bandage can: need for each member to carry the and get them to a hospital as • be folded into a narrow, medium basics and how supplies can be' quickly as possible. While doing or wide bandage to hold a dress­ combined. all this, get someone to identify ing in place Report any serious injury to the the snake or record a description leader if they are not there at the of it. • hold a dressing on a whole time so that decisions regarding Note—None of the above (for hand, foot, head or other large the patient, and the whole group, snake bites) has been required area can be made and carried out as over the many years that National • be used as a padding on a bush quickly and efficiently as possible. Parkers have roamed far and splint (folded bark) Snake bites are rare indeed and wide. • be used as a sling, of course treatment has altered rapidly. Do Finally, let us all remember the • cover any area getting sunburnt not suck, wash, cut or apply a tour­ golden rule of bushwalking, that niquet. Do keep calm and reassure one should go in a group of at • cover the lower face, head or the patient. Immediately apply least three people. In the event of neck in extreme cold firm pressure just above the bite, a serious injury, one person can • be waved around on a stick if then a firm wide bandage from stay *with the injured and the lost; its uses are endless. above the bite to well below and other can go for help. If going into The only broken limb in 30 plus back up again to above. This would the bush, other than a pro­ ears of NPA was a wrist, some need at least two seven centimetre grammed activity, remember to 00 kilometres from Canberra. crepe bandages according to the leave a note somewhere with The combined first aid from a limb affected. Immobilise the limb. someone giving your proposed group of seven was needed, and If it is a leg, tie it to the other leg route, estimated time of return even then more triangular band­ or else splint and sling the affected and who to notify if late. ages would have helped pad the limb. Improvise transport to keep Olive Buckman Landcare in the ACT South Durras In July 1989 the Prime Minister ence resource. Areas covered announced a number of measures include history of land use in the development aimed at addressing the problem ACT; current land use; survey of of land degradation in Australia soil degradation, water quality The NPA recently responded to a and launched the Decade of and flora and fauna; causes of proposal by the NSW National Landcare. The goal of the Decade land degradation; trends in land Parks and Wildlife Service to of Landcare is to work towards degradation; and requirements build commercial facilities at achieving sustainable land use yet to be met to achieve sustaina­ South Durras camping area in throughout Australia through ble land use in the ACT. Murramarang National Park on changing land use practices which The Plan then goes on to set the south coast. These facilities contribute to land degradation down goals and principles for would include a licensed restau­ nd to introduce practices which future action. The roles of govern­ rant, swimming pool and tennis ill contribute to ecologically sus­ ment, community groups and court. tainable use of all natural individuals are detailed and We expressed concern that the resources. action programs developed. These review of environmental factors A year later it was decided that involve land care community being undertaken by the NPWS in order to coordinate efforts over groups, rural lessees, legislative does not deal with the broader the decade, a Decade of Landcare review, community awareness issue of whether it is appropriate Plan should be prepared, and that programs, resource assessment, to build such facilities within a this is to comprise a national over­ research, and development of national park. The submission view and individual plans, by each monitoring procedures. pointed out NPA policy which is State, Territory and the The ACT Landcare Plan is cer­ that commercial facilities should Commonwealth. The ACT Decade tainly a useful reference and may be located outside the boundaries of Landcare Plan has now been awaken some to their responsibil­ of national parks where possible. published having been prepared ities towards land care. But it is The existence of the camping area by the Parks and Conservation essentially a plan and like all in Murramarang National Park is Service under the direction of a plans is of little consequence until no justification for the addition of broadly-based steering committee. converted to substance. further infrastructure. Neither This Plan does a lot more than does the existence of similar facili­ ties within other national parks in set out a plan to implement ACT Parks and Conservation Australia justify the need for Landcare in the ACT. It outlines Service: ACT Decade of Landcare them in this location, especially as the data and background from Plan (1991). This publication is which a plan can be developed Bateman's Bay is only fifteen min­ available from Shopfronts with­ utes' drive away. and this provides a valuable refer­ out charge. Travellers' tales (Part two) Wales: 22-29 June to the Emerald Isle! John and I spent a week at Cynwyd near Corwen in North Eire: 29 June-12 July Wales. At the suggestion of Dublin's Fair City appeared a another NPA member, Timothy little drab in the drizzly rain Walsh, we had booked to stay at a which keeps Ireland so green. In small guest house, run by a hus­ addition to the countryside being band and wife team who offered a green, it seems to be a theme for choice of walking or cycling holi­ other things, some intentional— days. Unfortunately the husband buses and mail boxes are green— became ill and the wife, Kay, and some unintentional and unde­ wrote to say they could provide sirable—the River Liffy looked full board but the guided walking thick and had a decided green and transport were doubtful. They tinge. We were told on good hoped we would still like to go and authority (an Irishman, to be sure) we decided we would. that one can walk on the Liffy!! On arrival Kay put us in touch We wandered down O'ConneUm with a local rambling group and street, crossed the Liffy (by con™" we were able to join them on their ventional means) to Find our way. Sunday walk to a local waterfall. to Trinity College where we hoped The weather for this was showery to view the Book of Kells—very and bleak in the morning but ancient, beautifully decorated improved in the afternoon. The manuscripts of the Gospels but we Abbey Vale Crucis, North Wales discovered the Book was not on walk turned into quite a mara­ Photo by Judith Webster thon—we began walking at 10am public display on Sundays! and didn't Finish until 7.30pm! pastie and several slices of cake. However, we were able to join a guided historical walk of the The rest of the week we did our Thus fortified we scrambled up a Mediaeval part of Dublin, led by a own walks with the aid of maps stony gully onto the high open history student from Trinity and bus timetables lent to us by moorland with lovely views along College. He gave an excellent com­ Kay. These Welsh walks took us the valley of the river Dee (of'Jolly mentary to cover a broad concept along narrow, tunnel-like lanes Miller' fame). The ruins of the of Ireland's problems and Dublin's between high banks and hedge­ Castle Dinas Bran stood atop a history without giving us informa­ rows; through muddy, manure- separate cone-shaped hill. We Fin­ tion overload! splattered farmyards; along wood­ ished the walk at Llangollen with land tracks; through river leas of a couple of hours to spare before Next day we travelled by rail to knee-deep wet grass and onto the bus back to Cynwyd so took a Killarney where we hired a car for high misty moors (the showery stroll to look at the boats tied up a week to give us scope for doing weather persisted!) where short along the nearby canal. some scenic tours. The small paotfk tough heather and myrtleberry Some of these converted barges of Ireland that we glimpsed in th™ thrived. were very smart with glossy deco­ south-west, conFirmed it is a beau­ Later in the week, when a lively rative paintwork, shining brass tiful country—green and lush. breeze had chased away the loiter­ and bright potted flowers. One Showers gave way to bright sun­ ing clouds, we had our most inter­ proud owner was busy polishing light and fuchsia hedgerows esting and varied walk. It began the already gleaming Fittings on glowed with crimson blooms. The with a visit to the ruined Abbey of his boat. The signwriting on the three peninsulas of Beare, Iveragh Vale Crucis, and ended with a cabin showed an Australian and Dingle offered miles of lovely visit to the ruins of Castle Dinas address. 'Now why would you have coastline, cliffs and coves, bays Bran. We spent about an hour that written on your boat?' asked and inlets, while inland the mist- looking over the elegant and pho­ John, as if he hadn't guessed! shrouded hills released tumbling togenic ruins of the Abbey. In an 'We're from Australia' came the streams which cascaded into little intact upstairs room an exhibition reply. We had an interesting chat tarns or spread out into shining explained the evolution of abbeys to this couple from Victoria who lakes. At the roadside shaggy and the monastic system in gen­ each northern hemisphere sheep, with black and white mot­ eral and the Order at the Abbey summer spend three months tled legs and faces, and long curl­ Vale Crucis in particular. exploring sections of the several ing horns, gazed impassively at thousand kilometres of the British the passing tourist traffic. Leaving the Abbey we climbed canal system. gently through woods to the base We were keen to do some walk­ of the escarpment. Here we ate Our week in Wales over, it was ing in the Emerald Isle so we the lunch Kay had packed for us - just a hop step and jump {well bought a book of local walks. It a satisfying wholemeal vegetarian short bus, train and ferry journey) contained a lot of interesting FOR YOUR FIRST AID KIT First aid Courtesy St John Ambulance Australia

St John Australia recommends other hand in a pistol grip. or oily substances, such as butter that those adventuring off the Gently tilt the head back, lift or margarine to any burn. beaten track should have com­ the jaw forward and open the Chest injuries pleted a first aid course. These casualty's mouth slightly. These injuries can make breathing notes are not intended to replace a B Check for BREATHING: look extremely difficult and painful. training course and should only listen and feel. If breathing, The casualty may rapidly de­ serve as a guide. First aid skills leave the casualty on their side teriorate into unconsciousness if need to be taught under the guid­ in a stable position and ob­ not treated promptly. Broken ribs ance of a trained instructor and serve continuously. Check for can cause damage to the lungs or should be updated regularly. For and manage bleeding and oth­ other underlying organs. Internal more information about training er injuries. bleeding can result. courses call St John ACT on If not breathing, turn the cas­ Conscious casualties will be 282 2399. St John has a range of ualty onto their back and im­ most comfortable half-sitting and specialist first aid kits and first mediately begin expired air inclined to the injured side. Loos­ aid publications. (mouth to mouth) re­ en any tight fitting clothing and Much of the following was taken suscitation. Give five full place padding over the injured | from Survival/ Remote area first breaths in ten seconds. area. Encourage slow breathing aid, St John's newest publication. and reassure the casualty. Recommended retail price is C Check for CIRCULATION. Feel for the pulse at the neck Unconscious casualties should $24.95 and it is available from St be managed according to the John ACT. for five seconds. If a pulse is present, continue expired air DRABC action plan. The St John DRABC resuscitation at a rate of 15 Chest pain breaths per minute. Any pain in the centre of the action plan If there is no pulse, commence chest, which sometimes radiates In an emergency, the first aider cardiopulmonary resuscitation into the neck and down the left

needs a plan of action for man- ( (CPR) if you have been taught arm, may be a heart attack. There aging an injured or ill casualty. the skill. Manage any bleeding may be shortness of breath, vom­ and other injuries as soon as D Check for DANGER—to your­ iting, nausea and pale, cold, clam­ possible. Seek urgent medical self, others or the casualty. Do my skin. Make the casualty as aid. not become a casualty yourself. comfortable as possible, loosen Only move the casualty if in any restrictive clothing and ob­ danger. Danger can come in Basic hints serve the response, airway, breathing and circulation regu­ many forms: fallen power lines Bleeding larly. at a road accident, high tem­ Severe bleeding can be life- peratures in unshaded areas of threatening. Act promptly. Apply If the casualty becomes un­ the outback. direct pressure to the wound with conscious, follow the DRABC ac­ tion plan. )R Does the casualty RESPOND? either your hand or a clean dress­ Gently shake the casualty by ing. Apply a firm bandage to keep Choking the shoulders and shout, 'Can the dressing in place. Rest the If the casualty is breathing, en­ you hear me?', 'Open your casualty. courage deep breathing and cough­ eyes!', 'Squeeze my hand.' If When foreign objects are em­ ing to remove obstruction. In the conscious, check for bleeding. bedded in the wound, do not at­ case of a child, lay the casualty tempt to remove as it may cause over your lap with the head down A If the casualty does not re­ further injury. Apply pressure and give three or four sharp spond, turn him or her onto and a bandage around the object, smacks between the shoulder their side and clear the AIR­ not directly on it. blades with the heel of one hand. WAY. Using two fingers, clear In the case of an adult, lie them Burns the casualty's mouth of any ob­ down if possible with the head low All burns should be cooled with structions, blood, vomit, broken and give three or four sharp blows running water, if available, for up dentures or teeth. Open the air­ between the shoulder blades. way by placing one hand high to ten minutes, then covered with Follow the DRABC action plan on the casualty's forehead and a clean, non-stick dry cloth. and seek medical aid. - supporting the chin with the Do not apply ointments, cream Hypothermia (mild to lapse, irritability, mental confu­ bites as if they are potentially dan­ moderate) sion. gerous. Symptoms and signs are that the Cool the casualty in the shade, Symptoms may include: strong casualty is conscious, though they remove unnecessary clothing, emotional reactions, headache, may be confused and apathetic, douse with water or immerse if drowsiness, nausea and/or vom­ possible shivering, skin is pale and possible. Cover the casualty's body iting and diarrhoea, pain or tight­ cold, possibly an odour of acetone with a wet cloth and fan to in­ ness in the chest or abdomen, gid­ on the breath. crease air circulation. When fully diness or faintness, puncture Immediately move the casualty conscious, give fluids with small marks about one centimetre apart to warm surroundings or build a amounts of sugar or glucose and at the site of the bite, swelling of shelter as required. Remove all half teaspoon of salt per litre. the bitten area, reddening, bruis­ wet clothing and replace with dry ing, sweating, breathing dif­ Shock ficulties. clothing. Wrap with insulating In the case of shock the body will materials, covering these with direct blood automatically to the How to treat the snake bite: blankets. Pay special attention to vital organs such as the brain, • DRABC head and neck, but leave the face heart and lungs at the expense of • Apply a pressure immobil­ uncovered. The arms and legs skin, muscles and limbs. should be kept isolated from the isation bandage over the bitten trunk by wrapping the body in a Symptoms and signs of shock area using a bandage about 15 separate first insulating layer if (the casualty will show some or centimetres wide. Apply the possible. An insulating layer all): pale face and lips, cold clam­ bandage as firmly as possible, should separate the casualty from my skin, usually a weak, rapid for example, from bite to fin­ the ground. Rewarm the casualty. pulse, rapid breathing, faintness gers then up to armpit. Apply a In the field,wrappin g your body or dizziness, restlessness, nausea, splint to the bandaged limb with the casualty's in the in­ thirst. with a second bandage. Do not sulating material may be the only Symptoms and signs of severe remove the splint or bandage option. Both bodies should be un­ shock include: extremities become once applied. bluish in colour, the casualty may clothed. Give plenty of warm sug­ • Rest and reassure the casualty. ary fluids plus extra calories in the become drowsy, confused or un­ form of sugar cubes or sweets if conscious, rapid breathing, usually • Seek medical aid urgently. the casualty is conscious. Do not an extremely weak, rapid pulse. Warning: give alcohol. Check especially for How to manage the shock: • Never wash the venom off the local cold injury. Have the cas­ • DRABC skin as this will help in later ualty lie still. Do not rub extrem­ • reassure the casualty identification. ities. Transport the casualty to medical care gently and ensure • seek medical aid urgently • Never cut or excise the bitten area. that he or she is insulated from • control any external bleeding • Never try to suck the venom wind and cold. Protect the head • unless fractured, raise the cas­ out of the wound. and neck especially. If possible, ualty's legs above the level of seek ambulance or ski patrol the heart • Never use a constrictive band­ transport to the centre. Give prior­ age. ity to thin casualties if multiple • dress any wounds or burns casualties are encountered. • immobilise any fractures • Do not try to catch the snake, although a description will aid • loosen tight clothing with identification. Leeches • keep the casualty comfortable Apply glowing twig or salt. Sprains but do not heat Symptoms include pain, swelling Limb injuries • if the casualty complains of and tenderness but, unlike a frac­ Injuries to bones, joints and liga­ thirst, moisten lips, but do not ture, there is no loss of function ments may be recognised by ten­ give anything to eat or drink. If and no deformity. Cool in water, derness, deformity, pain, bruising, after several hours medical aid apply padding and a compression swelling, loss of movement. has not arrived, small amounts bandage firmly and elevate the Support the injured limb in the of water may be given. limb. Don't remove shoe if position in which it was found, by sprained ankle—keep walking • monitor and record breathing immobilising the joint above and with rests and lighter load. below the injury with padding, and pulse at regular intervals splints and bandages. Control any and maintain an open airway. Ticks bleeding. Rest and assure the cas­ • place casualty in a stable side Apply methylated spirits, shellite ualty. Seek urgent medical aid. position if there is breathing or Betadine. Grip as near as pos­ difficulty, if vomiting is likely, sible to skin with tweezers or open Overheating blades of scissors being careful to Symptoms may be weakness, loss or if the casualty becomes un­ conscious. remove mouth parts. Search care­ of colour, dizziness, headache, rap­ fully for others particularly in the id breathing and pulse, early free Snake bite harr, behind the ears and other sweating then dryness as condi­ Symptoms can take anywhere body crevices. tion worsens, cramps, nausea, from 15 minutes to two hours to vomiting, temperature rise, col­ become evident. Treat all snake + + + + + + + along fire trails with fine views of Sentry Box Mtn. Good walk for January 23, 24, 25, 29 Pack Walk fit beginners. Car shuffle required. (150 Km drive $30 per car) Outings program Ettrema Gorge Ref: Touga 1:25000 February 6,7 Canoe Trip Leaders: Eric and Pat Pickering Ph. 2862128 h Murrumbidgee River/Wagga Ref: Wagga December to April 1993 Australia Day falls on the Tuesday. This could be a collaborative Leaden Chris Bellamy 1:100000 walk with the Canberra Bushwalkers. Details are not finalised and Contacts: Chris Bellamy 2497167 h Jill Roberts 2491390 h are subject to change. However it is a spectacular area, lots of Starting from Oura Beach above Wagga paddle to Wagga Beach for swimming and rock scrambling. Not for beginners. Phone leaders lunch, camping overnight at Kohlhagens Beach, finishing at Cur- at IeaBt a week beforehand for details. rawananna S.F. next day. Good introductory trip for fit beginners. Car based camping. BYO canoe or hire in Wagga. (560 km drive January 23,24 Pack Walk (2A/C) $112 per car) Munyang/RoUlng Grounds/Guthega Pondage Ref: MLKosclusko February 13 Saturday Wnlk & Swim (1/A) Leaders: Andrew and Julie Lyne Ph .2961165 h Murrumbidgee River Ref: ACT Contact leaders by Wednesday for details. From Guthega Power 1:100000 Station (Munyang) walk along unmarked fire trail to camp in the Leaden Syd Comfort Ph. 2862578 h Whites River Hut area. Maybe walk up to Schlink Pass and Dicky Meet corner Eucumbene Drive and Cotter Rd at 9am. A short walk Cooper Bogong. Next day, Granite Peaks the Rolling Grounds, Con- along the Murrumbidgee from Casurina Sands to a beach for swim sett Stephen Pass to Mt.Tate, descend Tate EaBt Ridge return to H-lo and loaf.(35km drive $7 per car) Guthega. Car shuffle required between Guthega and Munyang. (400km drive $80 per car) February 14 Sunday Walk (2/C/E) Billy Billy Rocks Ref: Corin January 24 Sunday Walk (VA) 1:25000 Molonglo/Murrumbidgee River Ref: ACT Leaden Mick Kelly Ph. 2412330 h 1:100000 Meet at Kambah Village Shops at 8 am. A sometimes scrubby walk Leaden Olive Buckman 2488774 h to outstanding rock features overlooking the Tidbinbilla Nature Re­ Meet at the Murrumbidgee Lookout (sign) off Stockdill Drive Holt serve. Suitable for fit beginners. (60km drive $20 per car) at 9.30am. A pleasant riverside walk of about 6km down to Molon­ Outings guide glo River, across and along the Murrumbidgee to East Urriara and February 21 Sunday Walk (2/A) Day walks carry lunch, drinks and protective clothing. return. If bridge underwater return to cars and walk up lower Mo­ Corn Trail Ref: Araluen & Monga Pack walks two or more days, carry all food and camping longlo Gorge, swimming either or both rivers. 1:25000 requirements. CONTACT LEADER BY Leaden Mike Smith Ph. 2862984 h 2483624 w WEDNESDAY. January 27 Outings Committee Meeting Meet at Woolworths carpark in Queanbeyan at 8 am. The walking Car camps facilities often limited or non-existent. Meet at Mick Kelly's place 1 Fitzmaurice St Kaleen commencing track follows the original pack horse route over the Clyde Moun­ Vehicles taken to site can be used for 7.30 pm. to plan outings program for April to June 1993. If you are tain. A 650 metre descent from the top of the Clyde Mountain to camping. BOOK EARLY WITH LEADER. unable to attend please forward offerings by mail to my address or Buckenbowra River. Car shuffle or cross over depending on condi­ Other activities include nature rambles, environmental and phone me on 2412330 h. tions and numbers.(240 km drive $48 per car) field guide studies and ski tours. January 31 Sunday Walk (2/A/C) February 20, 21 Car Camp Ref: Nattai & Plcton Rocks above Honeysuckle Ck Ref: ACT Mittagong Area 1:25000 Walks gradings 1:100000 Leaden Trevor Bensley (Berrima Branch) Leaden Mick Kelly 2412330 h Contact: Len Haskew Ph. 2814268 h Distance grading (per day) A walk to a series of rockfaces above Honeysuckle Ck sometimes re­ Contact Len by Tuesday for details. This will be a joint outing with 1 — up to 10 km ferred to as The Spinnaker, return via ridge and Orroral Ck/ Hon­ the Berrima Branch of the NPA. We will camp on Trevor'B property 2 - 10 km to 15 km eysuckle Ck fire Trail. Suitable for fit beginners. (60 km drive $12 at The.Alpine on the Old Hume Highway. The activities are at this 3 - 15 km to 20 km per car) stage but will probably include a selection from the following. (1) 4 - above 20 km. Balmoral to Tahmoor via Picton-Weir (2) Balmoral Ridge-Little February 6 Saturday Walk (2/A) River-Picton Lakes (3) Troys Ck-McArthurs Flat- Starlights Trail Terrain grading Mt Aggie & Mt Franklin Ref: Tidbinbilla (4) A walk along the Bargo River led by a member of the Bargo Riv­ A - Road, firetrail, track 125000 er Protection Society. (420 km drive $84 per car) B - Open forest Leaden Len Haskew Pb. 2814268 h C - Light scrub Meet corner Eucembene Drive and Cotter Road 8.30am. A 12 km February 24 Wednesday Walk U/A/E) D -r Patches of thick scrub, regrowth walk along old tracks to two peaks with fine views and passing Mlchelago Ck/Murrumbidgee River E - Rock scrambling through beautiful alpine countryside. (120 km drive $24 per car) Ref: ACT F - Exploratory. 1:100000 February 7 Sunday Walk (3/A) Leaden Olive Buckman Ph. 2488774 h The walks program contains additional information. If Naas Ck/Sheep Station Ck/Grassy Ck Ref: Yaouk Contact the leader for details of meeting place and time. Six km necessary, contact the leader. 125000 walk through paddocks (private property) drop down to Michelago Leaden Marty French Ph 2583528 h 2642477 w Ck and trock hop' to junction with Murrumbidgee. Laze and swim Meet at Kambah Village Shops 8 am. A pleasant 18km walk mostly in large delightful area, return wilh hill climb and through pad­ March 14 Sunday Walk (3/A/B) Ck. Total climb about 800 metres. Not for beginners. (100 km drive docks. (100km drive $20 per carl Cotter Rocks Ref: ACT $20 per car) 1:100000 February 28 Sunday Walk (3/A/C/D) Leaden Frank Clements Ph. 2317005 h March 27,28 Pack Walk (2/A) The CameLTldblnbilla/Mt Domain Ref: Tidbinbilla A 20km walk partly on fire trails and partly on old bridle trail with Corang Lagoon Ref: Corang 1:25000 1:25000 final 250 metre climb from Cotter Cap through bush to granite tors & CMW Map Leader: Marty French Ph. 2583528 h ofCotter Rocks. Impressive views. (100km drive $20 per car) Leaden Mike Smith Ph.2862984 h 2483624 w 2642477 w Contact leader by Wednesday for details. Walk from the Wog Wog Meet al Kambah Village shops al 8 am A walk partially on fire March 13,14,15 Pack Walk (3/C/D) Ck. entrance to the Budawangs to the Corang river lagoon via Irails, tracks and through light scrub, inking in The Camel ridge Kowmung River/Church Ck Ref: Yerranderie & Blndook Goodsera Creek with optional walk upstream to rock ribs area.(250 Tidbinbilla Peak and Mtn, onwards to Mt.Domain and descending 1:25000 km drive $50 per car) to join the Fishing Cap fire trail Glorious views. (Jar shuffle re­ AJso Bee CMA Blue Mtns Tourist Map quired (70 km drive $14 per car) Leaden Mick Kelly Ph.2412330 h April 3,4 Pack Walk (2/A/C) Canberra day long weekend. Walk in the Southern area of the Tantangara Ref: Tantangara February 27,28 Canoe Trip Ref: Yarrangobilly Boyd Kanangra National Park. From Bats Camp (off Oberon/ 1:25000 Lake Talbingo 1:100000 Yerranderie Rd Bindook Map) to Kowmung River and Church Ck Leaden DI Thompson Ph.2886084 h 2447588 w Leader: Chris Bellamy Ph. 2497167 h via Lannigans Ck. Return to vehicles via Mount Armour and Co- Contact leader by Wednesday for details. A collaborative walk with Contact leader by Wednesday for details. Canoe in the Kosciusko long Caves. Walk will involve at least two river crossings. Not for the Family Bushwalkers to Blankety Plain and Witses Hut. Re­ NP. Paddle from Talbingo Dam wall south across cleur sheltered beginners. Phone leader by Wednesday for details Note if soaking turning along the Big Boggy. Walk mostly on tracks or tussock waters to a delightful camp site on Tumut River Arm, returning on rain in area prior to date, alternate walk will be provided in the grass. (300km drive $60 per car) Sunday. Canoe based camping. BYO canoe or hire in Tumut. Suita­ Gungartan/Kerries area) (Drive 560 km $112 per car) ble for fit beginners. (Drive 460 km $92 per car) April 4 Bike Ride March 13,14,15 Canoe Trip The Lakes Ref: Canberra Cycleways Map February 27,28 Pack Walk (1/A) Murrumbidgee River/ Narrandera Ref: Wagga & Leaden Gary Schneider Ph. 2549801 h Goodradigbee River Ref: ACT Narrandera Meet at near the Acton Ferry Terminal at 10 am. Please wear your 1:100000 1:100000 helmets for this delightful autumnal ride from Lake Burley Griffin Leader: Fiona Brand Ph. 2479538 Leaden Chris Bellamy Ph.2497167 h across to Lake Ginninderra and return. Distance about 20 km. Contact leader by Wednesday for details The annua] blackberrying Contact leader by the Wednesday by Wednesday for details. Paddle and relax weekend on the river around 2 km walk each way. Good from Currawananna S.F. below Wagga to Narrandera, camping en- April 9,10,11,12 Car Camp campsite and swimming. (Drive 160 km $32 per car) route from canoes with a night at Berembed Weir. Paddlers should Wapengo/Mimosa Rocks National Park Ref: Eden State enjoy fast moving water. BYO canoe or hire in Wagga. (Drive 670 Forests Map km $112 per car) March 6 Saturday Walk (2/A/B) Leaden Ian Currle Ph.2958112 h Bendora Arboretum ReKTidblnbilla Contact leader early, before 2 April, for details of this Easter car 1:25000 March 20,21 Pack Walk (2/A/B/C) camp north of Tathra. Walk, swim, fish, canoe, birdwatch and ex­ Leader: Len Haskew Ph. 2814268 h Mt. Scabby Ref: Yaouk & Rendezvous Ck plore the hinterland. Numbers limited and facilities few. Meet Corner Eucumbene Drive and Cotter Rd at 8.15 am. A 15 km 1:25000 on management trails and fire breaks to the arboretum that was Leaders: Andrew and Julie Lyne Ph.2961165 h 2509460 w established in the 1940's. Interesting scenery plus opportunities to Contact leaders by Wednesday for details. Walk from Yaouk Valley test your skill at tree identification using our field guide. Suitable to Yaouk Gap along Scabby Range to camp on Mt Scab­ for beginners who don't mind the odd steep pinch. (120 km drive by.Depending on time/inclination may wish to walk along ridge to­ $24 per car) ward Mt Kelly. Mt Scabby offers extensive views. (200 km drive $40 per car) March 7 Sunday Walk <2/C) Naas Ck. Gorges Ref: Colinton March 20, 21 Car Camp Ref: Yass 1:25000 Burrunjuck State Rec.Park 1:50000 Leader: Jack Smart Ph. 2488171 h 2492191 h Leaden Marty French Ph.2583528 h 2642477 w Points to note Meet at Kambah Village shops at 8 am. Walk from Shanahan's Mtn Contact leader by Wednesday for details. Meet in the car park at New faces to lead, new places to go Please help keep our outings carpark over Shanahan's Mtn and down to the confluence of Shana­ the end of the red pedestrian bridge to Belconnen Mall off Lathlain program alive by volunteering to lead a walk occasionally. han's Falls Ck and Naas Ck. Inspect Naas gorges. Return by a vari­ St. Saturday afternoon explore Carrols Ck area and climb Barren- All persons joining an outing of the National Parks Association ation of morning's route Not for beginners. (160km drive $32 per jack Mountain on the Sunday. Camping fee $6 per person. Suitable of the ACT do so as volunteers in all respects and as such accept car) for beginners. (200km drive $40 per car) sole responsibility for any injury howsoever incurred and the National Parks Association of the ACT, its office bearers and March 10 Wednesday Walk (2/A) March 20 Saturday Wal k 3 li D appointed leaders are absolved from any liability in respect of any Casurlna Sands/Bulgar Rocks Ref: ACT Mt. Burbidge Ref: Yaouk and Rendezvous Ck injury or damage suffered whilst engaged in any such outing. 1:100000 1:25000 The committee suggests a donation of TWENTY cents per Leader: Olive Buckman Ph. 2488774 h Leaden Murray Dow Ph. 2574371 h kilometre DIVIDED BY THE NUMBER OF OCCUPANTS in the Contact leader for details of meeting place and time A 16 km walk Meet at Kambah Village Shop* at 7 am. By this date the naming of car, including the driver, (to the nearest dollar) be offered to the on undulating tracks above the Murrumbidgee River to lunch and Mt. Burbidge .should have been achieved. Passing through mainly driver by each passenger accepting transport. Drive and walk swimming spot past Bulgar Ck. (40km drive $8 per car) srubby and sometimes rocky bushland this walk will follow the distances quoted in the program are approximate distances for ridge between Bogong Gap and Middle Cks returning via Middle return journeys. detail on local history and legend Boats ceremony. Two pipe and Scotland: 12-21 July but little in the way of specific drum bands and the priest pro­ After an overnight stay in walking directions. For example, cessed down the hill from the Stranraer we caught a train to one afternoon we started out to do church to the wharf where the Glasgow and another to the what was described as a four and gaily decorated fishing fleet Bridge of Orchy. Here a bus from a quarter hour circuit of Lough waited. After blessing the boats, the Holiday Fellowship (HF) guest Anascaul. The scenery was the Priest and Harbour Master house met arriving guests to impressive with brooding hills boarded the life boat and motored transport us all to Loch Leven. It enclosing this quiet lough. We out into Dingle Bay. All the fish­ was a 35 minute drive through the laboured up a 2,000 ft climb for ing boats and every other craft in spectacular Glencoe Valley. We nearly two hours. Our guide book the harbour followed—packed to passed grey, wind-whipped lochs dismissed this effort with one sen­ capacity with locals and tourists and the road ran parallel to a tence. The text then meandered on making the most of a free ride! raging stream cascading over with the story of Seal Ni Alas, our schedule didn't permit rocks into a gorge. Tall, dark, Mhurnain after whom Loch an us to join in this part of the festivi­ cloud-shrouded hills closed in but Scail is named. A giant came to ties; we had to press on to sometimes we glimpsed bleak take her away and she sought the Limerick to return the rental car. peaks where snow still lingered. hero warrior, Cuchulainn's, assis­ However, we did have our own In the gloomy gloaming Glencoe's tance, The warrior and giant 'cruise'. John had arranged that beauty held a sombre, uneasy fought for a week, throwing boul- 1 we rent a yacht for three days on quality tainted by its history of ders at each other across the lake Lough Derg, a lake on the the infamous Massacre of Glencoe. and then Cuchulainn was hit and Shannon river. The yacht was an The Holiday Fellowship (for gave a loud groan. Seal, thinking 18ft Hurley, not much bigger than those not familiar with it) offers him killed, drowned herself in the a dinghy, and a good size for the full board in comfortable guest Lake. two of us to handle. We were able houses throughout Britain, tradi­ to cook and sleep on board but its But where to next on our walk? tionally with a walks program but other amenities were limited so The nitty gritty was brief: 'From nowadays they also have special we Tiung on' till we were able to the cliff edge, travel west to the weeks featuring other recreational get ashore! peak before attempting a descent activities—golf, bridge, photogra­ to the boggy expanse below. It blew half a gale (felt like a phy, etc. We were booked in for Contour to the top of the saddle to whole one to me) for the three walking. At this centre, there were join the green road zigzagging up days so we didn't get the chance to four levels of walks each day: low, from the south.' explore very far down this lough. middle, high and hard high! Boots We looked at the cliffs; at the We went to a tiny, picturesque, were insisted on for everything extensive boggy plateau below; the stone-walled harbour called except the low level. Garrykennedy and stayed there 1,000ft climb up a ridge on the On Sunday we did our first all three nights but ventured forth other side and the clouds that Scottish walk, an easy stroll in across the lake during the day and lurked about the hilltops. We also showery conditions, along boggy to the local pub at night! We met took account of how long we had Glen, Gour. When returning along 'three men in a boat'—mad Irish already taken and the lack of a the shore of the Loch Leven, Ron, variety—sailing a beaten up 25 proper map—and we were our Leader, who was a keen foot yacht from Dublin by way of 'daunted! We gave it away. •Birdo', pointed out Sheld Ducks, canals, rivers, lakes and the sea We had now moved our base on Eider Ducks, Oyster Catchers, around to Cork to see the Tall to the delightful little fishing port Sandpipers and a Hooded Crow. Ships Race when it called in there. of Dingle and one night we went to He also spotted seals on a rocky a local pub to hear some real Irish Now it was time for us to move island exposed by the low tide. music. We made ourselves com­ on from Ireland. We travelled by Some of us set off across the wet fortable in a window seat and soon train from Southern to Northern sand hoping for a closer view but a few musicians drifted in to Ireland and discovered it was the seals became aware of our occupy the other end of the Orange Day!! Bunting and flags approach and began ' to flap window seat. A flute, penny whis­ decorated the streets of the towns towards the water so we left them tle, bagpipe with elbow-operated in Northern Ireland. At Belfast we in peace. bellows and fiddle set the mood. had to transfer to another station, The weather for our week in More musicians continued to using a taxi as no buses were run­ Scotland was probably typical of arrive until we were squeezed into ning. Armed police loitered around the Highlands. We were beset by a corner amid nine players. The the station. With everyone out of showers and low cloud denied us music was intense, exciting and town or lying low, there were not views. However, the company was spontaneous! It was great! many passengers on the ferry we good—70 guests included people caught that evening from Port Another memorable event in from various parts of Britain, the Larne to Stranraer on the Scottish Dingle (apart from the tractor US, Canada, Holland, Germany, coast. gathering in the silage in the pad­ France and Australia. dock behind our bedroom until 2am!!) was the Blessing of the continued on the next page 'How long did it take you?' I Travellers' tales enquired. He cast a brief glance at continued from previous page his watch and stated with noncha­ In the evenings 'entertainment' lant pride 'One hour twenty five'. was provided—often by our­ Turning to a fellow Aussie in our selves—we were called upon to group, I said 'and how long did it participate In 'Highland Games', take us?' With equal nonchalance an Auction ('Boney' Prince and quick wit he responded 'Oh! Charlie's knee cap and other items One hour twenty six'! of that ilk!), a Treasure Hunt and Well, if Ben Nevis was a disap­ a Concert. On two evenings we pointment, the walk I did on the had speakers—one an expert on Friday certainly made up for it. the local history and the other This walk took in the peaks of speaker was one of our walk lead­ Sgorr Bhan, Sgorr Dehargand, ers, Ron, who by profession is a Sgorr Dhonuill. Don't these Gaelic craftsperson—a woodcarver of names look great—I couldn't pos­ British wildlife. Ron, Graham and Judith on top of Ben Nevis, Scotland. sibly pronounce them! The Mid-week we had a 'free' day Photo by John Webster weather had improved and we had when no walking had been pro­ some great views of glens, lochs, grammed. A number of us went on ridges and peaks. The cloud still We hadn't got very far when we 1 tantalised at times and locked us a coach trip to the isles of Mull were assailed by cold, lashing into a white world. After bagging and Iona. St Columba landed on showers. Undeterred, we plodded two 'Monros' (.peaks of over Iona from Ireland in 563; built a on and later, when the rain had 3000ft) some of us climbed a monastery and began the eased, took a short lunch break. A narrow ridge to the craggy Christianisation of Scotland. steady stream of hardy, deter­ summit of Sgorr a' Chaolais (Peak Through the following centuries mined tourists passed up and of the Narrows) as an optional religious activity fluctuated; the down the track. Near the top, it extra. abbey was destroyed and then became bleaker—the ground was rebuilt in the 11th century. We covered in scree; thick mist hung It had been a lovely day and an also looked around the ruins of an stubbornly to the peak and the enjoyable week and that evening old Nunnery which has particu­ marked path disappeared in a there was a special menu at the larly attractive pink stonework. drift of snow. guest house which included a The next highlight of our After four hours of chilly expo­ taste of Haggis, Neaps and Tatties Scottish week was meant to be the sure, we shivered triumphantly on (Haggis, turnips and mashed walk up Ben Nevis—Britain's the summit. Like many thousands potatoes). The Haggis was ceremo­ highest mountain at 4408ft. All before us, we had climbed Ben niously borne aloft into the dining grades of walkers were to cover Nevis and, I suspect also like a hall to the drone of a Bagpiper some aspect of this mountain. The many thousands before us, we and a quotation from Robbie middle level group, which included could see nothing!! We were think­ Burns' Ode to the Haggis\ Thus me, were to follow the stony, zig­ ing it was not a good place to our stay in Scotland came to an zagging track built to enable linger, when a scantily clad appropriately traditional Queen Victoria to ride up on a runner steamed into view. He conclusion. ' pony! glowed with warmth and vigour. Judith Webster Welcome Reef Dam Endangered Species Legislation update Reaction to the Sydney Water The Democrat's Threatened Bill. The legislation is considered Board's plans to build its huge Species Bill was tabled by Senator by many as a compromise to eco­ Welcome Reef Dam on the John Coulter in late 1991 and nomic demands. In determining Shoalhaven River near Braidwood revised in March 1992. Labor and what protection is needed for has taken a new turn with the for­ Liberal combined to defeat the Bill native flora and fauna, the legisla­ mation of the Coalition against in the Senate in October. tion will consider social and eco­ Welcome Reef Dam. On the night of 27 October, nomic concerns with the decision­ For more information: Federal Cabinet approved making power mainly lying with Angela Marshall, Braidwood Minister for the Environment Ros the portfolio ministers. Cabinet (048) 461170(h) 422077 (w) Kelly's endangered species legisla­ will have the final say. May Leatch, Nowra (044) 231615 tion, which was then passed by The laws include a list of David Hughes, Hawkesbury- the House of Representatives on endangered species and of recov­ Nepean (02) 652 2565 10 November. The Liberals intend ery programs. Mrs Kelly has the Tom Hayllar, Sydney to support the Bill, while the power to issue interim conserva­ (02) 905 3484 Democrats will try to amend it by tion orders in case of dire threat Rodney Falconer, Canberra reintroducing sections of their own to a listed species. (06) 247 7808 (w) America by campervan Barbara Comfort continues the The '49ers, story of her and Syd's trek around Death Valley America. When we left Syd and Photo by Syd Barbara they had just returned to Comfort the USA from Canada... It was then on to Yellowstone National Park, another highlight of our trip, where we spent five nights at various camp sites. Here we discovered we had a small mouse in the van but when we went to the store to buy a mousetrap were promptly told they didn't sell them as we were in a national park and it was an offence to kill any wildlife. We #had to drive about ten miles out of the park and then couldn't buy one but had to buy a packet of sitting on the grass listening to the tic sunsets. One morning we rose two. Anyhow we caught the proceedings which were being early and watched the sunrise mouse! broadcast. We visited the Beehive before having breakfast at The There were lots of elk roaming House, original home of Brigham Lodge, and then walked part of in the park with the bucks Young, founder of Salt Lake City,- the way down into the canyon bugling incessantly as it was the and then back to Temple Square itself. Very warm. We spent four start of the rutting season. Old and to the Museum of Church days here driving and walking to Faithful performed for us and as History and Art. On Tuesday we various points of interest before well we saw Opal Terraces, drove out to Salt Lake which was going on to Glen Canyon for two Minerva Springs, Artist Point very depressing with low water nights. From here we did a float and Roaring Mountain to mention level and the whole area heavy raft trip down part of the Colorado just a few, all steaming and bub­ with smog from a large copper River going ashore at one point to bling in the most fantastic col­ smelter. look at Anasazi petroglyphs on the ours. We then moved on to Grand We then drove through country rock wall. We then spent two Teton National Park where we becoming more and more barren to nights at Monument Valley which stayed at Signal Mountain camp­ reach Capital Reef National Park is in Navajo territory, the camp­ site with a magnificent view of where we spent two days. The site being run by the tribe. Again the snow-capped Grand Teton small camping area is in the valley we had an excellent site overlook­ ing the valley with huge rock for­ mountain, 13 770 feet, through originally farmed by the Mormons mations rising straight out of the • the pine trees. and has towering red cliffs rising valley floor, giving beautiful sun­ We now drove through Jackson from the valley floor. There are rises and sunsets. We went on a and on to Salt Lake City along still fruit trees and vines growing tour through the valley with a valleys with the hills on either here. Navajo driver/guide, again with side covered in autumn colours. We drove through Dixie National magnificent rock formations and On the Sunday we caught the Forest ablaze with golden aspen colours. shuttle bus from the campsite and on to Bryce National Park. into the city, our plan being to The colours are fantastic every The weather was much cooler as visit the Tabernacle and hear the way you turn. We walked down we headed for the South Rim of Sunday morning radio/TV presen­ into the canyon surrounded by the Grand Canyon where we spent tation of the Mormon Tabernacle beautiful rock formations ranging four nights, again driving and Choir. When we reached Temple from delicate pink to russet red. walking. We woke on our last Square we were confronted with Our next stop was Zion National morning to four inches of snow over 7000 people: we had arrived Park with entry through a mile- and moved on to Flagstaff with on the day of the twice-yearly con­ long tunnel through a mountain still a lot of snow about but the ference. We were lucky and man­ with rangers operating a one-way roads cleared. We visited Indian aged to get tickets into the traffic system. Temperature here ruins at Wutpaki National Tabernacle together with 6000 was 94 degrees Fahrenheit. Monument out of Flagstaff, also other people and enjoyed the half- We drove on next to the North the Museum of North Arizona. hour recital. We were then able to Rim of the Grand Canyon where After leaving Flagstaff we wander through the grounds we had a campsite almost on the where hundreds of people were rim from which we enjoyed fantas­ continued on the next page all very colourful. This is an clear blue skies but with a temper­ America by annual event commemorating the ature of 1 degree Celsius at campervan first crossing through Death lunchtime. continued from previous page Valley to California in 1849. The When we reached Lake Tahoe next day we drove the length of we found ice and snow right down stopped at Walnut Canyon Death Valley, an extremely deso­ to the water's edge, but still National Monument, where there late and hot area. enjoyed a boat trip round part of are lots of Indian cave dwellings Next a stop at Calico Ghost the lake. built into cliff overhangs, before Town, then on to 29 Palms and It was then back to San reaching Fort Verde. Then on to Joshua Tree National Monument Francisco to return the van and Montezuma Castle National with its beautiful cactus gardens join a flight to Honolulu where we Monument which is a huge four- and of course Joshua Tree.We spent a few days relaxing before storeyed Indian construction built spent a few days with friends in returning to Australia. We arrived half way up a sheer cliff. It was LA and from there drove to San in Honolulu the day before the now the beginning of November Diego where we saw some of the 50th anniversary of the bombing but the weather was much America's Cup yachts, not the of Pearl Harbour so the place was warmer again as we had left the Australians as they had not yet crowded with Pearl Harbour survi­ higher altitudes. We toured the arrived. vors. We visited the Arizona Hoover Dam and spent a night at Memorial which is very impressive Lake Mead National Recreation We continued on our way to Sequoia and Kings Canyon (administered by the National Area before driving on to Las Parks Service) and also took a bus Vegas where we spoilt ourselves, National Parks where we saw the biggest living thing—the General tour around the island. And so staying two nights in a luxury home to Australia, crossing the hotel. Eating out here was very Sherman Tree, estimated to be 2300-2700 years old with a cir­ date line again but this time losing cheap with all the hotels and casi­ one day completely. nos competing against each other. cumference at ground level of 31.3 It was interesting to watch people metres. Then we spent a few days Syd drove 15 000 kilometres in playing the gaming tables. Death In Yosemite National Park, unfor­ the van. We had only nine wet Valley was next on our itinerary tunately confined to the lower days, stayed in 56 different and our arrival coincided with the valley because most of the upper national, provincial, state, forest arrival of the 'Forty-Niners' with passes were closed with snow, as and tribal parks and between us their mules and covered wagons— it was now the end of November. sent off 179 letters and postcards! Thanksgiving Day was spent here, Barbara Comfort

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And, if vou would like to know more, please ask us for a copv or our lodged and registered prospectus dated 22nd September, 1992, which details all that an investor would want to know; or ask an investment advisor who understands vour ethical concerns. The August Investments Managed Trust, Suite dti, Canberra Business Centre, Bradfield Street, Downer ACT 2602. Telephone: (06) 242 19S8 or 008 021 227. Facsimile: (06) 241 5284. for investors, society and the environment Wilderness assessments In the September issue of the The Nadgee submission focused on the importance of this Bulletin, we asked readers to send described the beauty and variety area as a catchment for the Deua submissions on ten wilderness of the area, and pointed out that it and Shoalhaven Rivers and the assessments in NSW. The NPA is the only remaining area of Diamond, Georges, Woila and put in submissions on the three coastal wilderness in NSW with Burra/Oulla Creeks. The entire areas closest to the ACT—Nadgee, examples of heath, wetlands and catchments need to be added to the Goodradigbee and the Deua— rainforest vegetation. The the national park and be desig­ as well as sending a letter to the Association supported the Colong nated as wilderness in order to Minister for the Environment, Foundation's proposal to include afford the necessary protection. A Chris Hartcher, the Premier and the area of Nadgee State Forest point of major concern was the other members' of parliament along the border which contains continued use of existing roads expressing our support for the Maxwell's Flora Reserve and which will effectively split the pro­ creation of the ten proposed wild­ lightly logged rainforest, in order posed wilderness area into three erness areas. In this letter we to protect creek catchments of the separate zones. The use of these emphasised that the management Croajingalong National Park and roads by the public contravenes principles outlined in the NSW to link this park with the Nadgee the Wilderness Code. The exis­ National Parks and Wildlife Nature Reserve. The Association tence "of tracks and fire trails Service Wilderness Code should be did not support the service's propo­ increases the potential for adverse adhered to. These are: sal to exclude Wonboyn Beach as impacts on wilderness through this is the only large beach in incursions of weeds, feral animals, • no private motor vehicle use or NSW which can be managed as erosion and other impacts such as animal transport wilderness. noise pollution and litter. • wilderness will be maintained Our submission on the We are now waiting wi^Ji keen free of signs and markers Goodradigbee highlighted the anticipation the outcome of the • minimal impact bushwalking importance of its alpine and sub- assessments. Watch this space! will be encouraged alpine areas, as well as pointing • motor vehicle trails closed, out the beauty of the natural fea­ except for essential management tures such as the Dubbo Falls, the gorges, caves and rock formations • scientific research permitted by which occur there. The issues written consent NPAinNZ which concerned us were: the use In the article on this subject in • Aboriginal sites to be managed of 4-wheel drive vehicles, horse the last Bulletin, Lake in accordance with the Burra riding and the fact that the propo­ Mackenzie hut should have read Charter sal splits the area into three separ­ McKellarHut. • control of introduced plants and ate zones. animals where necessary The submission on the Deua A conundrum Question: What have an old coun­ once broad environment. the past 15 years as more land try cemetery, a travelling stock- Remnant grasslands and wood­ goes under the plough. The popu­ route resting paddock, a pastoral lands have become a study for bot­ lation of small marsupials and station's horse paddock, a road­ anists and zoologists in an effort birds is declining because of loss side verge and railway track's to understand species and manage of habitat and the 'endangered verge got in common? these areas so that they flourish species' stage has arrived for Answer: Remnant stands of with wildlife. some. native tree species, clumps of The clearing of land in Australia This dismal picture is slightly native shrubs and a ground cover began in earnest 200 years ago redeemed by the strange collec­ of native grasses sometimes sprin­ and despite the powerful evidence tion of sites listed in my opening kled with small flowering plants. of what such clearing does to the question. These sites have been These small areas are often the environment, there has been an accidentally left natural and show only examples of the original vege­ acceleration of clearing in many us what we have lost and what is tative cover of the whole area areas in the last 50 years. A biolo­ still disappearing. before European settlement and gist named Dominic Sivertsen It is urgently important that farming practices changed the who works for NSW NPWS is shires and town councils keep land. And of course they are also investigating the box tree and such sites in a natural state and often the only feeding and nesting ironbark forests of the western make them into reserves as ref­ areas for the native birds and ani­ slopes of NSW. He has found that uges and examples of once mals which have managed to sur­ the surviving remnants have common species. declined in size dramatically in vive the great changes to their Fiona MacDonald Brand Baldur Byles and Kosciusko National Park During the summer of 1931-32 pletely cleared by fire. All the spe­ from the tops to a valley bottom Baldur Byles, a forester with the cies forming this cover are which frequently involved 12 Commonwealth Forestry Bureau extremely fire sensitive and once hours of arduous walking and and a brother of the early environ­ burnt out do not coppice and their climbing without the assistance of mental activist Marie Byles, car­ powers of seed production are local guides. ried out a six month period light. Where grass formerly grew Whereas today we are used to reconnaissance of the mountain­ it may thrive after a fire,howeve r paved motor roads and fire trails, ous part of the Murray River. where the soil is too shallow the 60 years ago Kosciusko could have His report formed the basis for organic layer dries up and blows been defined, apart from the graz­ more effective control of the frag­ away to be followed by the loose ing, as an almost true wilderness ile environment of the alpine sandy soil, leaving bare granite area. The report lists access areas on the New South Wales rocks and stones. points: motor vehicles could only side of the Murray which eventu­ In only one place did Byles see a reach Possum Point on the Tooma ally led to the formation of snow gum stand in the almost nat­ River, Khancoban, Wollondiby Kosciusko National Park. The ural state, but even then this had near Jindabyne, Adaminaby, park was later consolidated and been badly burnt around the butts. Snowy Plain on the Gungahlin extended because the Snowy Although snow gums coppice and Kiandra. Access was gained Scheme needed strict control of abundantly after burning, succes­ by bullock teams to Wheeler^k erosion. sive burnings kill them altogether. selection and Round Mountain onW In the 1930s all the mountain In the more accessible country no a track described as very bad; country was held under some form signs of original stands were left. Grey Mare and Mawsons hut by of grazing lease which did not Where an original snow gum stand bullock team; and from permit the destruction of trees or is killed by fire, fairly dense under­ Adaminaby, Pretty Plain and the lighting of fires in the summer growth comes in which, with fur­ Geehi by pack horse. Groggin was months. In practice, lessees lit ther burnings, causes the scrub to reached by bridle track from fires as often as they thought fit, disappear and a final stage of Geehi. From Groggin a bridle talking about lightning, glass bot­ snow grass to be reached. track led up to Dead Horse Gap from where a poorly defined track tles and spontaneous combustion All of this clearing caused seri­ as a reason whilst having the led to the Pilot and on to Omeo. A ous drying-up of the swamps in recent track led from Geehi up to knowledge of who lit it. If the fire the plateau country: whereas 30 happened to burn one of their own the main range at Kosciusko and years previously a swamp in the a metre and half track from paddocks they had no proof, their parish of Jagungal could not be only hope being that during the Groggin to Limestone Creek was crossed by horse, now in an aver­ impassable because of fallen logs next summer they may be able to age summer a bullock dray could get even with the man who lit the and washouts. From Jindabyne a be driven across it. A change in cli­ motor road led to Thredbo River fire. These fires destroyed thou­ matic cycle was discounted as a sands of acres each year. and from there a bridle track led reason for the drying-up as this to Dead Horse Gap and on to Fires, in destroying the alpine was not shown from the rainfall Kosciusko. The remaining descrip^k woody scrub and alpine ash, ini­ records of the surrounding tions only cover bridle trac™ tiated erosion in the high country country. routes and from them it can be and gullying in the freehold prop­ When firedestroy s an alpine ash seen how much of the alpine area erties below 700 metres. The stand a good crop of seedlings has been opened-up with the aid velocity of the degradation process comes up in its place. However if of bulldozers and graders since was increasing in geometrical pro­ fires occur at intervals of five to World War Two. portion to the extent that in areas ten years, the new crop does not where alpine ash had completely reach seed-producing age as It is well to reflect upon how disappeared, landslides were mature trees need to reach a much more of the Kosciusko pla­ occurring. Gutters and gullies height of near 20 metres at an age teau would have been degraded if were forming on the grass slopes of 20 to 30 years before producing Baldur Byles had not drawn of the Kosciusko tops and in the seed. attention to the serious erosion lower altitudes soil had been com­ Baldur Byles travelled on a occurring in 1931-32. In 1931 pletely washed away from under saddle horse supported by one Myles Dunphy did a grand walk­ fence posts. Ninety-nine per cent pack horse and because of the ing tour of 200 km from Beloka to of the firesoccurrin g were lit to strenuous nature of the work and the Snowy and on to Mt Kosciusko clear away the collection of rank somewhat poor natural feed, fre­ and Thredbo. It would be probably unpalatable grasses or to remove quent changes of horses were nec­ no coincidence that Myles with his scrub from the stock routes. essary. There were few tracks and association with Marie Byles, both At the time of the report approx­ the locals had little knowledge of of the Sydney Bush Walkers, imately two-thirds of the area areas which were not of direct talked about the degradation of originally covered by the alpine interest to them for grazing. In Kosciusko and formed his idea for woody scrub type had been com­ many instances he had to walk continued over NAMADGI

Feral pig control Feral pigs have been present in reduction in the populations under the use of dogs were abandoned in Namadgi National Park since the study varied from 91 per cent to favour of a concentrated poisoning 1960s. Numbers remained rela­ 100 per cent. campaign, involving virtually all tively small until the early 1970s Warfarin acts as an anti­ Namadgi staff for a period of but over the next decade their dis­ coagulant and causes internal hae- about two weeks. This involved tribution increased until about morrhaging. It is the active ingre­ several teams of people who cov­ 1980 when feral pigs could be dient in many commercial rat ered all areas of car and motor­ found in most of Namadgi. baits and was commonly pre­ bike access and a team covering Mark and recapture programs scribed for human consumption the inaccessible areas of Namadgi and radio tracking programs were where blood clotting was a prob­ from a helicopter. initiated in 1977 to gain informa­ lem. It is particularly effective in This program was very success­ tion on movements and home the control of pigs due to their ful and was repeated in 1988, range. Control programs under­ feeding habits whereby they ingest 1991 and 1992. Since 1991, these taken from this time involved large amounts of roughage likely programs have been applied on a shooting on sight and extensive to cause gut injuries. The suscepti­ regional basis and have involved use of yard traps. These programs bility of other animals and birds to staff from Murrumbidgee River ere conducted largely in the warfarin is many times less than Corridor, Tidbinbilla Nature otter Valley and Gudgenby pigs. Reserve, NSW National Parks and areas. One of the advantages of war­ Wildlife Service, ACT Agriculture During May 1986, a cooperative farin is that once ingested by an and Landcare working together exercise was carried out in animal and metabolised, it is not with ACT Forests and local Namadgi to test the effectiveness passed through the food chain in landholders. of poisoning with warfarin as a the way that other poisons such as This year the program also technique for the control of feral 1080 are. involved 20 staff from NSW pigs. This involved the CSIRO Further cooperative research National Parks and Wildlife Division of Wildlife Ecology, with CSIRO has indicated that the Service and the Victorian Bureau of Rural Resources, NSW use of dogs is ineffective in control­ Department of Conservation and Department of Agriculture, ling pigs and has also shown that Environment who participated in Canberra College of Advanced May is the optimum time for a poi­ order to gain knowledge of how Education and Namadgi and other soning program in the southern feral pig control is undertaken at ACT Parks and Conservation ACT. Namadgi National Park in the Service staff. In 1987, the results of this 1990s. This study demonstrated that research were put into practice. Brian Terrill warfarin could be effective in The traditional control methods of reducing populations of feral pigs virtually year-round trapping and Manager, Namadgi and in this instance the estimated opportunistic shooting including (tealdur Byles Namadgi work party continued from previous page Julie Lyne and Joss Haiblen Saturday 10 October was a mild a national park. Baldur, besides prepare to kill off another briar. partly cloudy day, just right for being a forester, also had a deep Photo by Reg Alder some light outdoor exercise. This regard for the environment and is exactly what work party mem­ because of his official position bers had as they cleared briars in would use Marie as his public the vicinity of the Yankee Hat voice. Myles worked on his propo­ track and rock art site. sal for a Snowy-Indi National Park Using secateurs or, better still, or Primitive Area and displayed long arm loppers, NPA members his scheme at a public exhibition cut the briars near ground level in Sydney in 1935. The war inter­ and park rangers applied weedi- vened and in 1943 he was cide to the open cuts. This 'cut and requested by the Lands squirt method' is very effective Department of NSW to develop against woody weeds. As briars further his National Parks and are widespread in Namadgi, our Primitive Areas Council scheme one-day effort was restricted to a for a national park. Kosciusko limited area but much was National Park was declared in achieved. Both rangers and volun­ 1944. teers are to be commended on Reg Alder their involvement. President's annual report 1991-92

August 1992 demolition of Gregory's house in The year was once again a busy Orroral. The Association has been one for the National Parks assured of stricter implementa­ Association (ACT) as we contin­ tion of procedures set out in the ued to promote objectives of pro­ Namadgi National Park tection of our environment both in Management Plan. the ACT and nearby areas of Discussion has taken place on NSW. the removal of the Boboyan pine Membership is a little lower forest, the impact of the Tri-state than in previous years but we Alpine Walking Track on have a valuable core of members Namadgi, European and who have participated on commit­ Aboriginal artefacts in the park, tees, have enjoyed meetings and feral animals and plants, Boboyan outings, have contributed to the roadworks and the impact of Bulletin and have represented our increased tourism following track Association in public forums. construction and expansion of the The Association's financial posi­ ACT Parks and Conservation tion is sound. We have not had to Service public education, walks change subscription rates thanks and visits program. to donations, book sales and the grants from the ACT Heritage Mulligan's Flat NPA joined with six other ACT Grants Program. We continue to Further developments will be employ a part-time office secre­ conservation groups to prepare a detailed submission to the Chief monitored by this Association. tary and a research administra­ Amongst other matters to tive assistant and to engage an Minister for the reservation of an area of grassland and open forest receive attention in the ACT were editor for the Bulletin. The West Belconnen, Lake Burley archives have received attention called Mulligan's Flat in Gungahlin. The proposal was well Griffin, Red Hill, the Molonglo and an important task for the new Sewage Treatment Plan, volun­ committee will be to determine an received when presented to the teer Workers Insurance and a archive policy which will set out Minister for the Environment in review of the Heritage Grants the objectives for the archive pro­ July. This is a valuable follow-up gram, define the scope of the col­ to this Association's Remnant Program. lection and set out uniform and Woodland and Native Grassland Outside the ACT consistent procedures for manage­ Report which emphasised the ment and use of the archives. importance of preserving such Jervis Bay areas. Our long-term interest continues with response to the Draft PlarL The Australian Federal Government for Jervis Bay National Parl^ Capital Territory Inquiry—Protecting and which raised key issues of sewage Managing the National discharge, naval exercises, fore­ Namadgi Capital's Open Spaces shore development, penguin spot­ We have been pleased to partici­ Our submission and subsequent ting, dolphin chasing, camping pate in work parties with staff of committee hearing highlighted restrictions and fishing. We will the ACT Parks and Conservation values of the inner hills, the need continue to liaise with other con­ Service on the Orroral homestead for legislative protection for such servation groups working towards and kitchen. Some funds still held areas, the impact of transport the larger Jervis Bay Marine from a 1982 Heritage Grant were planning threats to some local Park, which would cover a terres­ expended on stonework and the environments and the need for trial area and the waters around remainder of the grant will be funding commensurate with the peninsulas. spent on resurfacing the internal national capital goals. stone walls. Communication with National telecommunications the ACT Minister for the Draft territory plan code Environment and officers of the This vital document received our Our submission and meeting with ACT Parks and Conservation attention mostly in aspects relat­ consultants highlighted concerns Service resulted in several meet­ ing to urban open space (where that the code did not appear to ings to discuss issues related to emphasis on landscape values provide sufficient protection for the siting and construction of a seemed to be at the expense of the environment or clear guide­ car park for access to the Yankee habitat, education, recreation and lines to contractors as Telecom Hat Aboriginal paintings on the natural values) and to references and Optus expand their services. old Gudgenby property and to the to Namadgi and Tidbinbilla. National Strategy for the our Association to keep in touch continue to monitor the Welcome Conservation of Australia's with local environmental issues Reef Dam, Jervis Bay, the Alpine Biological Diversity and to provide a regular contribu­ National Park and issues relating The positive outlook of this docu­ tion to park management, conser­ to Namadgi and national parks ment was appreciated by our vation and outdoor recreation in nearby in NSW and we plan dis­ Association but the practicality of the ACT. cussions on Aborigines and implementation would seem to be Two members continue as office­ national parks with a view to a concern without adequate finan­ bearers on the Australian developing a policy. I am sure cial and human resourcing. National Parks Council and take that, with the continued support The National Parks Association our submissions for debate at the of you, the members, the National also made major responses to the annual conference. Parks Association (ACT) will maintain its important contribu­ coastal zone inquiry, Kosciusko Representatives attend quar­ tion to the conservation of our National Park Management Plan, terly meetings of the Conservation environment. the review of the NSW National Council of the Southeast Region Parks and Wildlife Act, ACT and Canberra and of the Decade of Landcare and the Environment Centre. Our partici­ 1991-92 Committees inquiry into tourism in the ACT. pation with the ROCKS group NPA committee All documents are available for (Renewal of Childers and Kingsley President: Beverley Hammond perusal by members at the office Streets) continues because of the Vice-president: Dianne Thompson J an Acton. Thank you also to those location of the NPA office. Treasurer: Mike Smith ' Bnembers who contacted the Two informative outings were Secretary: Len Haskew Association to draw our attention provided by our Association in Past president: Les Pyke to issues worthy of our attention. Heritage Week. Several joint out­ Members: Tim Walsh, Syd Comfort, Neville Esau, Clive Outings ings with Kosciusko Huts Association and other ACT walk­ Hurlstone, Dugald Monro, Len Work parties for trail mainte­ Crossfield nance in Morton National Park ing groups have enabled us to share perspectives and expertise. were given a boost by a $1000 Namadgi sub-committee grant from the NSW National Appreciation Convenor: Dugald Monro Estate Grants Program. The out­ I would particularly like to thank Members: Les Pyke, Syd Comfort, ings program of long and short two committee members who are Fiona MacDonald Brand, Reg walks, pack walks, ski tours, retiring: Tim Walsh who has con­ Alder, Babette Scougall, Frank canoe adventures and car camps vened the environment sub­ Clements, Len Haskew, Bob continues with growing participa­ committee so enthusiastically and Story, Charles Hill, Phil Gatenby, tion in mid-week walks. ably, and Dugald Monro for his Anne Taylor, Tony Winsbury Meetings work in convening the Namadgi Environment sub-committee Monthly meetings at the Griffin sub-committee. Convenors: Tim Walsh and Len Centre provided opportunities for Thank you to Sheila Kruse for Crossfield the greater understanding of working on the archives, to Members: Kevin Frawley, issues through lectures, illus- Adrienne Nicholson for supper at Bernadette O'Leary, Jane ;ated talks and question times, meetings. Laraine Frawley does a O'Donahue, Neville Esau, Di «opics ranged widely from cultu­ cheerful and efficient job in the Thompson, Den Robin, Anne ral heritage and national park office and Anne Taylor services Taylor, Roger Green, Les Pyke, management to national parks in our sub-committees very effec­ Andrew Lyne, Anne Forsythe, the USA and Canada and what tively. I won't name those who Peter Barrer, Tim Bull, Isobel footwear we should wear when have put many hours of work into Crawford, Graham Guttridge, bushwalking. writing submissions, tramping John Paraskevopoulos around Namadgi, planning work Bulletin parties, drafting letters and Outings Our quarterly publication, as well attending meetings, but the Convenor: Dianne Thompson as being a record of Association Association would not have the Members: Stephen Forst, Graham activities and developments, acts status it has in the conservation Guttridge, Les Pyke, Mike Smith, as an important educational field without their efforts. I would, Ben Thompson, Gary Schneider, medium as it enables contributors however, like to thank Syd Len Haskew, Bob Story, Frank to keep members informed about Comfort and Les Pyke, both past Clements, Matthew Higgins, Mick broad and local conservation presidents, whose practical assis­ Kelly, David Hall, Chris Bellamy, issues. tance I have appreciated very Syd Comfort, Ken Johnson much. Other groups Bulletin NPA was once again able to nomi­ Several Association matters con­ Convenor: Beverley Hammond nate a representative to the ACT tinue into our next year—the NPA Members: Phyl Goddard, Sonya Parks and Conservation archives, office accommodation, Lenz, Roger Green Consultative Committee. This pro­ the Flora Guide and a review of Beverley Hammond vides an important opportunity for our committee structure. We will ORRORAL

The rear wall of Orroral Homestead The rear wall of Orroral home­ accommodate the lower ends of stead is unique in a building of its the wall slabs. The slab ends were age and may be described as a cur­ trimmed to a uniform length and tain wall in that it is hung from the bottom wall plate lifted to be the top wall plate. Although the in contact with the slabs. method of attaching the slabs to However, this omission of detail the wall plate is different to that may be self-adjusting in saving usually employed, I recently saw a the slab ends from accelerated rot residence being constructed with for, when the new timber of the its walls following the same princi­ lower wall plates shrinks to a ple as used in Orroral where the stable dimension, a clearance will bottom ends of the slabs are kept be provided as the loss in width out of contact with the lower wall will be away from the wall slabs— plate. The ends of timber sections comme il faut\ •0 OBOOTI IF are particularly vulnerable to rot IKCOHBTSOCIXOL CX*AH if encapsulated and not allowed to IIOTTO* HULL FLATS Reg Alde^| dry out. I have advanced the idea that Postscript this feature of the design in the In the March issue on pages 12-13 Diagram of the rear wall. there is a panoramic photograph Orroral homestead was there from Drawing by Reg Alder the time it was constructed and of the homestead and its surround­ others have had the idea that the of the slabs would have provided a ing buildings. The shed on the hangers only became necessary clearance between the bottom right has four animal shins nailed when the ends of the slabs became ends of the slabs and the bottom to its wall—there has been some rotten and this support was neces­ end of the groove in the lower wall conjecture as to what species the sary to stop the slabs falling out. plate. The hanger rods are gener­ animals might have been. In ally at their minimum length, another section of the book from If the design is closely examined, which the photo was taken there is together with the relationship of which shows that they were ini­ tially designed for a length which a smaller picture of the shed, and the slabs to their position in the they are fox skins. wall plates, it can easily be dem­ would ensure that the wall slabs onstrated that the hanging system would be housed up as high as was there from the time that possible into the top grooves. Archibald McKeahnie built it in Furthermore, the ends of the rods Australian the 1860s. show that they were never at a Both top and bottom wall plates longer length. National Botanic were grooved to a depth of 5cm to Now consider if the lower ends of Gardens house the ends of the wall slabs the slabs became rotten and the ( and it could be assumed that the slabs came out of the groove—if 12 December 1992 to slab lengths were cut (.with an this should have happened it 31 January 1993 allowance for clearance) tofit int o would have been necessary to Extended hours and these grooves. Examination of the lower the slabs, not raise them. Twilight Series present location of the top ends of The present length would have the slabs shows them to be pulled been self-adjusting by gravity (if Gardens open 9am to 8pm daily up by the hangers completely into the supports were notfitted) unti l For information on the above, the top wall plate groove. such times as the slabs fell out of please call the information offi­ Furthermore, because the groove the top groove. Construction of the cer on (06) 250 9540 between in the top wall plate has been hanging system would only have 9am and 4.30pm daily. stopped short in the wall plate become effective if the slabs could about a half slab width from the have been pulled up to compen­ building support posts, the end sate for a loss in length equal to slabs have been checked out to half a groove depth. If they had allow the slab to come in contact been pulled up all the way, as they Apology with the wall plate over that half are now, the slabs would have We apologise to members who width. Hence the slabs are pulled come out of the bottom groove. went to the Griffin Centre for up as much as they can be to be in an incorrectly advertised meet­ contact with the upper surface of Because of timber removed from the rotten ends of the slabs the ing on 22 October. General the top wall plate groove. Fitting meetings are on the third tolerances or a positive shortening contractor did not cut a groove into the new lower wall plate to Thursday of each month. Paddling the Murrumbidgee The Murrumbidgee, upon reaching bridge at Town Beach before Beach. There again we enjoyed a Narrandera, flows out onto a vast saying farewell to Narrandera. nice, white, sandy beach to camp flat plain, leaving behind the roll­ The big decision at lunch time was on, picnic tables to eat off and a ing hills through which it has from which white, sandy beach to fire in the cool of the evening. threaded its way since leaving swim. Mid afternoon saw us Again we pitched our tents on the Lake Burrinjuck. The river in fact approaching our first weir, Yanco soft sand, after having pulled our parallels the Sturt Highway, aptly Weir. The high river levels meant boats well clear of the water—or named after the first European that we had some difficulty nego­ so we thought. explorer to paddle down the tiating our way past the left arm. During the night a large water Murrumbidgee and thence down to That evening saw us pulling up at release came down river and sud­ the South Australian coast on the Horn Beach complete with BBQ denly Tony's teenage son camped Murray. This proximity, and a and picnic tables. We dined that down by the water found himself system of stock reserves, gives evening with the sound of the and his bivvy bag on the move. good road access to the river as far Leeton Town Band playing mili­ Brian, an early riser, awoke at west as Maude, below Hay. The tary marches wafting through the dawn to see that his kayak had red gums. That evening most of us j Bfrer, nonetheless, is flanked by an moved on without him and he had 'inmost continuous state forest. So found the soft white sand delight­ to get a passage in Wayne's wee the paddler wends his way ful to camp on. fibreglass canoe in order to through the red gums which them­ Next morning saw us paddling retrieve it, which he did. So we all selves attract a prolific bird popu­ past the old wooden Euroley got an early start with the lation, much removed from the Bridge by 9am. For the benefit of excitement. advent of the 20th century and the the gathering water skiers at the Some beautiful old properties passing traffic on the nearby Sturt Leeton Water Ski Club, Jill and front onto the Murrumbidgee: Highway. her crew gave a superb demon­ Tubbo is very close to Cuba Beach Last Canberra Day (March) stration of running a plastic canoe while Kooba, a large rambling weekend, about a dozen NPA pad­ into snags in mid river. Large homestead which fronts on to the dlers launched at Narrandera and plastic canoes are usually care­ river, is obviously a very early paddled off to Darlington Point, fully designed to spend most of example of a Riverina sheepsta- some 120 kilometres downstream. their time circling around rapids tion homestead. It even has The weather was idyllic and the or for that matter anything else. banana palms facing the river. We Water Resources people at Leeton Still they are good at moving large all savoured our last hour or so as had organised a vigorous water eskys. Kevin and Val had one of we approached Darlington Point. release to ensure good speed for the faster fibreglass canoes on the Just before coming into town we us. The rendezvous was the Lake trip, powered by two double ended all had a close look at the remains Talbot Caravan Park at paddles. Kevin, having in recent of the old paddle steamer wharf Narrandera, a pretty spot over- years been a lecturer in environ­ dating from last century, when no JApking tranquil Lake Talbot. mental studies and a past presi­ doubt Darlington Point was a focal *Warrandera is a quaint old town dent of the NPA, was a mine of point for the river trade. Today the that clearly boomed in the days of information on the effects of old drawbridge from that era is gold and is now well worth visiting European settlement in the now a museum piece next to the as a diversion on any trip further Riverina. His explanations of the caravan park and in its place west. Our finishing point was to be land forms we were passing made stands a new concrete structure, the caravan park at Darlington the trip much more interesting. the last paddle steamer having come this way in 1946. Point, some two and a half days Gogeldrie Weir was our next later. lunch spot. At this weir the NSW By 11.30am we had landed and The caravan park manager Public Works Department has loaded our boats onto the cars for kindly offered to park our car after done its best to slow the passing of our return to Canberra, some four dropping us off at the beach at river users with high steel fences or five hours away via the Sturt Milthorpes Reserve, as Lake et al. So it was a long hour before and Hume Highways. But there Talbot is separated from the river we had all the boats across to the will be another trip. If this story by a major irrigation canal. So we other side. There we relaxed in the takes your fancy, why not come on launched into the mid morning shade of a few willows and enjoyed one of the NPA canoe trips listed sun and soon found ourselves pad­ the cool, passing waters. Then it in the program for this summer dling past the old town brewery was back to work paddling past and visit a different Australia before the road bridge. Then, of places like Kingfisher Bend, yourself? course, we paddled under the Possum Patch and Punt Bend. By splendid Victorian iron railway five o'clock we pulled into Cuba Chris Bellamy Calendar

JANUARY Wed 27 Outings sub-committee, 7.30 pm, 1 Fitzmaurice St, Kaleen. Mick Kelly, 241 2330. Thursday 28 Environment sub-committee, 7.45 pm, 159 Chuculba St, Giralang. Tim Walsh, 274 1465 (w).

FEBRUARY Thursday 4 Committee meeting, 7.30 pm, 21 Hyndes Cr, Holder. Beverley Hammond, 288 6577(h). Thursday 11 Namadgi sub-committee, 7.30 pm, 87 Shackleton Circuit, Mawson. Syd Comfort, 286 2578 (h). Thursday 25 Environment sub-committe, 7.45 pm, 43 Fitchett St, Garran. Tim Walsh, 274 1465(w).

MARCH Thursday 4 Committee meeting, 7.30 pm, 21 Hyndes Cr, Holder. Beverley Hammond, 288 6577(h). Thursday 11 Namadgi sub-committe, 7.30 pm, 87 Shackleton Circuit, Mawson. Syd Comfort, 286 2578 (h). Thursday 25 Environment sub-committee, 7.45 pm, 159 Chuculba St, Giralang. Tim Walsh, 274 1465 (w).

NPA Bulletin National Parks Association of the ACT POSTAGE GPO Box 457 Canberra 2601 SURFACE PAID Registered Publication No. NBH0857 MAIL AUSTRALIA

General meetings Held at 8pm, room 1, Griffin Centre, Bunda Street, Civic.

NPA Christmas Party Sunday 13 December To be held at Orroral Picnic Area at 3pm. Bring barbeque or cold tea.

Thursday 18 February: Biodiversity protection Dr Andy Turner, Assistant Secretary, Nature Conservation Branch of DASET, will discuss the role of National Parks in protecting biodiversity.

Thursday 18 March: Feral fox study Peter Banks is a PhD student of the University of Sydney who has funding from the Australian Alps Memorandum of Understanding. He is currently working in the Orroral and Glendale areas of Namadgi. Peter will discuss aspects of his research The effects of predation bv the red fox Vulpes vulpes on native fauna in the Australian Alps National Park.