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r o iitt C Canberra Bushwalking Club Inc PO Box 160 Canberra ACT 2601 Volume: 46 www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org Number: 2 March 2010 GENERAL MEETING 8 pm Wednesday 17 March 2010 In this issue A photographer’s life 2 President’s prattle 2 Membership matters Presenter: Michael Bowers 2 Walks waffl e Mike Bowers is an award-winning political journalist, photographer and 2 Letter to the Editor author. He has spent time as Chief Photographer for Fairfax publications in Canberra and been managing editor of photography for the Sydney 3 Review: What kind of Morning Herald and the Sun-Herald. He now produces and hosts ‘Talking ACT do we want to Pictures’ on the ABC program, “Insiders”. Mike’s photographic assign- live in? ments have taken him from Kosovo to Gallipoli, from the Beijing Olympics 3 Trip report: Summer to the Indonesian Tsunami. In 1995 he won the Nikon-Walkley Award for Journalism for the best Photographic Essay. at the Shoalhaven 4 Drought and fl ood on Church auditorium, the Tuross Hughes Baptist Church, 20–21 February 2010 5 Of Namadgi, 32–34 Groom Street, Hughes champagne and Aboriginal astronomy 7 Activity program Sunset over Kinglake, Victorian bush fi res, 2009 11 2011 calendar and photography competition 11 Discount offers for club members

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8 MarchMarch CanberraCanberra DDayay 177 MarchMarch GeneralGeneeral mmeetingeeting 244 MarchMaarch CommitteeCommmittee meetmeetingin Committee reports President’s Walks Letter to the prattle waffl e Editor n the February 2010 Walks IWaffl e, Jeff has pointed out the club’s here is a lot of activity at the mo- ater in 2010, when winter’s chill party size limits and discussed the pros Tment, not just great bushwalks Ltemporarily dims my enthusi- and cons of small and large parties. but a variety of activities. The asm for camping, I will be taking However, some of our local national photo competition is gathering pace, trips giving basic instruction in parks have also set party size limits bushwalks have been combined use of map and compass. All club for bush camping which leaders of with photography and painting, members who walk off track, not overnight walks, in particular, may need trips have involved paddling canoes just leaders, should know how to to be aware of. and kayaks, a range of informative navigate. Their leader could become presentations have been given at ill or injured, or they could get sepa- The party limit in Kanangra Boyd NP the monthly meetings, and we had rated from the rest of the party. of 8 is soon seen to be sensible when our fi rst meeting in the new hall more than one party has planned to at Hughes. On top of all this, the In addition, Meg McKone has kindly stop at the same campsite. One of my Committee is preparing to give the offered to conduct an advanced nav- most embarrassing moments in the Club’s website a new look and fi x is- igation skills exercise on 18 April. bush was a trip in Kanangra Boyd sues with the membership database. The compass needle does not point NP over Mt Cloudmaker to 100 Man Cave, returning to Kanangra Walls the Changes to the website and mem- to true north, and many people have trouble adjusting for magnetic next day. Since it was mostly on track, bership lists will take time as the I had accepted a party of 16 (I like to Committee is endeavouring to variation. I know of a usually reliable leader who, on reaching the think it was in the days before the limit ensure the new systems can be of 8 had been set). On the way we met maintained now and into the future. top of one mountain, pointed to another and said that was where we another, much smaller group, whose The success of the club is largely should be! He confessed to adding faces fell visibly when they realised based on the time and effort its magnetic variation when he should both parties were heading for the same members put into it. So please take have subtracted. campsite. Though we leap-frogged the opportunity to go on some of the each other several times during the walks on offer, and consider leading I use a technique which avoids the day, they arrived at the cave fi rst. We a walk. Remember to be quick as need to add or subtract altogether. In were relieved to fi nd they had been many walks get booked out early, the Canberra region when using the considerate enough to camp at the especially where there are restricted compass in the fi eld (that is, against smaller end, leaving the roomier end numbers. And don’t forget to take the terrain rather than against the for us. your camera. map) simply point the needle to 13 degrees on the compass dial. Having been in a small party in the As for myself, I have enjoyed Compass directions are then (for Budawangs that was harassed for several great walks this year and practical purposes close enough to) hours around the campfi re by two little some great food, particularly on true directions. darlings from a poorly supervised youth Stan’s walks based at Charlottes group of over thirty camped nearby, I Pass. Just for interest, did you know Jeff Bennetts was very pleased when the Budawangs that Charlottes Pass was named after Walks Secretary Wilderness Area camping limit of 12 Charlotte Adams, the fi rst European was introduced. I suspect that a lot of woman to climb Mount Kosciuszko the rubbish, damage and unsanitary in 1881. conditions at the popular campsites has been caused by large groups of children Unfortunately, I will miss the next and teenagers. (I’m not suggesting that Club meeting as I will be on the Membership young people should be banned, only Australian Alpine Walking Track that they should be in groups small with Karen Cody and other club matters enough to allow adequate supervision.) members. The draconian party size limit of 6 for Fortunately, with the wide variety Please ensure that you keep the Membership Secretary informed camping in the Bimberi Wilderness of walks the club has on offer I am section of Namadgi NP is officially sure there is a walk for everyone. of any changes to your email address. justifi ed as being necessary to protect Peter Jones our water supply. We are also required New members: Pam Connor, to obtain a permit for camping. This is President Martin Fisk, Henry Hatch, Leanne free of charge, and available fom the Mason, Mark Simmons, Stephen Gudgenby Visitors Centre – they will Simpson, Michelle Osadcznk, post it if requested. Andrew Power, Amanpreet Singh If you are going to try cross- Meg McKone country skiing, start with a Gary Trevean small country Membership Secretary

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Review of general meeting talk and professional associations in A somewhat more energetic Sunday WWhathat kkindind of AACCT debate. What values are important morning saw the group climbing up to us in the places where we live to the very well built but since 1912 ddoo wwee wwantant ttoo lliveive and work, and how can we infl uence deserted, chimneys of the Tolwong iin?n? our politicians to drive change in a mines where alluvial gold was found positive and sustainable direction? as early as in the 1850s and where ur Wednesday meetings for silver, gold, copper, tin, lead and These are the challenges faced zinc ores were found in the early O2010 got off to a great start in by the Council and they would the new venue at Hughes with an 1900s. Remnants of the fl ying fox welcome the support and interest of used to carry the output across the excellent talk in February by John groups like ours. Hibberd, Executive Director of the river and over 200 m up to the road Conservation Council of the ACT Jenny Horsfi eld could also be seen. Region. He gave a thought-pro- voking address to a highly engaged After admiring the fi ne buildings audience, to whom the future of the Suummmmeerr atat thethe our group continued up to the Bush Capital matters a great deal. spectacular Block-up gorge and more swims before returning John presented four scenarios for SShoalhavenhoalhaven to climb up to the road, again future development of the ACT bemoaning the fact that nature is to 2050. Walkers: Alison Milton, Douglas placing the refreshing rivers at the 1. ‘Dispersal’, based on growing Wright, Penny Costello, Brett bottom of the hot climbs. resistance to urban ‘in-fi ll’, would Goyne, Ivor Oorloff and Gösta encourage larger block sizes and Lyngå Stiff legs were still able to carry us see the city expand signifi cantly, into the Paragon café in Goulburn with 80% of expansion into he Trestle track, about 4 km after a successful trip. greenfi eld areas. Tbefore the Bungonia recreation area, got us down to this lovely Gösta Lyngå 2. ‘Business as usual’ would see river along a sometimes steep and 40% urban intensification and exposed track. Down at the river we 60% future development of green- found comfortable camping ground fi eld sites. This scenario would be and warm water for the skinny dips. driven by a general complacency Walks along the river bank, rock about current planning and a hopping some stretches and negoti- feeling that present practices are ating nestle and thistle thickets were working. The ACT government all part of the day as was some quiet would continue to generate much drawing, painting, photography and of its revenue from land sales to reading by the shore. property developers. The camp fire, friendly chatting 3. ‘Consolidation’ would see restric- and solution to some of the most tion of greenfi eld development pressing global problems preceded to 30% with most development a night lit by the full moon and fi lled taking place within existing by songs of cicadas and some quiet urban areas. This would permit snoring from a variety of tents. more compact transport options, help to reduce the city’s ‘spatial Refl ections of the cliff opposite our footprint’ and hopefully promote campsite (right) more social inclusiveness. Block-up Gorge (below) 4. ‘Compact Canberra’ envisions a dramatically reduced urban and ecological footprint with no further greenfi eld development. Clustering of residential development would lead to a vastly reduced use of energy, water and car-based transport. The economy would have shifted from the current unsustainable land sales base to a highly diverse business community with multiple employment options. The Conservation Council has formed an ‘Acton group’ to develop these four scenarios and engage the community, the ACT government

Canberra Bushwalking Club it March 2010 page 3 Trip report Standing above a cliff on the eastern shoulder of Jillicambra Mountain, Ian gazes DDrorouughght aandnd ffloodlood over the Tuross River valley to the peaks of the Woila Circuit on the horizon oonn tthehe TTurossuross 220–210–21 FebruaryFebruary 20102010

Walkers: Meg McKone, John and Margaret Cooper, David and Pennie Briese, Ian Turland t was obvious that the heavy rains Iof the previous weekend would have had an effect on the Tuross; the question was – how much? I was starting to wonder seriously when we reached the steep drop of the road down to the junction of Woila Creek and the Tuross River, to fi nd it strewn with fallen rocks and branches, even trees, and riven by some deep, though narrow, fi ssures. Fortunately someone had been down before us and cleared away the worst of the debris. The fl ood had dumped piles of debris overlooked by a russet-streaked cliff At the bottom, Woila Creek was and fl attened trees and bushes along at the top of the hill above us. There fl owing strongly over the concrete the banks. These obstacles had to wasn’t enough room for a fi re without causeway, so our feet were wet right be either pushed through or climbed endangering at least one tent, but the from the start, and even though we over, so our progress was slow. We evening was balmy and we made a stayed on the left bank and didn’t made the most of the numerous circle of our stoves, chatting over cross the river on Saturday, there opportunities that the river provided dinner with wines provided by David were plenty of other wades through to cool off and wash away the sticks and John, until it was nearly dark. and leaves that had fallen down our side creeks and backwaters. We soon The next morning we left soon after saw a large goanna, which did its necks and worked their way around our sweaty bodies. The amber- 7.30. The forecast for Batemans Bay usual goanna thing and ran up the had been 30 degrees with the possi- nearest big tree, moving round to the coloured water was surprisingly cold and clear, and fl oating along with the bility of an afternoon thunderstorm. opposite side of the trunk. It was the I wanted to climb the hill before fi rst of many. current on a warm, humid morning was surely a great way to pass the the heat set in and also do the steep time – as long as one kept an eye drive up onto the plateau before the on the water ahead and avoided storm. But crossing the Tuross was the rapids. a slow process, with the rocks at the Taking a dip in the pool at the campsite usual crossing totally submerged. I We were starting to make was in over my waist when my feet some headway after morn- fl oated away and I took off gently ing tea when I realised half downstream until I bumped into the the party was well behind. rocks of the crossing. But starting David had lost his camera, the climb completely soaked wasn’t which he’d been carrying in such a bad thing on a day that would a velcro-“sealed” pocket, and prove to be far hotter than forecast. had gone back to look for it, without success. This wasn’t Though the effects of the fl ood were surprising, as the possibility plain to see in the river valley, the of retracing our steps exactly slopes were still suffering from the was minimal. drought. Numerous trees and shrubs had died in the long dry spell and When we reached the camp- fallen over, forming a set of barriers site, five to six kilometres that were especially diffi cult to push downstream, it was covered through when added to the steep in a fresh dump of sand, the slope strewn with dangerously loose shrubs had been pushed over rocks. We were nearing the top of the and it was barely recognis- fi rst knoll, having negotiated a small able. However, we all soon cliff, when I heard the cry of “Rock!” found suitable spots for our below me. I cringed in horror and tents and sampled the mag- covered my eyes. Though I could nificent pool on the bend, hide the sight, at least for a moment,

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Trip report I couldn’t cut out the sickening noise fortunately, and we stopped in Cooma One can’t know what the people of a sizeable boulder crashing down for an excellent fi sh dinner at the café who created the stone arrangements near the rest of the party. It had been on the Canberra side of the northern in the past intended for their use. levered free by the merest touch of roundabout. On arriving home, I found Our current day interpretations are a walking pole, and missed John by it had been 36 degrees in Batemans Bay. necessarily speculative. a couple of metres. It wasn’t surprising we’d felt pooped by the end of the walk. Some astronomical background However, not all the climb was For the sun, the places on the so fraught. Some sections of the Meg McKone winding spur were pleasantly open, horizon where it rises and sets vary providing easy walking and giving with the seasons, the extremes to the us glimpses of the expanding view north and south corresponding to the as we climbed higher. Two large, OOff NNamadgi,amadgi, solstices and half way between, the dark grey birds revealed themselves equinoxes. The middle of the daily to be glossy black cockatoos as they cchampagnehampagne path across the sky is noon and the fl ew off, fl ashing their brilliant red aandnd AAboriginalboriginal imaginary line it then crosses is the tail feathers. Goanna Number 5 scut- meridian which runs north–south. tled off and up a tree. Five hundred aastronomystronomy Whilst the orbit of the moon is just metres above the river, we reached less than a month, its plane of move- the knoll we’d been aiming for on ment also rotates so that a full cycle the eastern shoulder of Jillacambra Preamble of lunar events lasts ~18.6 years. Mountain, whose rocky summit was ohn Evan’s birthday bash in During that time there are extremes visible several kilometres to the west. Jearly November to Mt Namadgi to the north and south like the sun Turning north, we could see the high as a day walk attracted 11 starters. for rise/set. Some ancient cultures ridge of the Kybean Range falling to Perhaps it was the champagne or are thought to have recorded these. the valley of Woila Creek, then rising even the challenge, since it’s not Eclipses are more diffi cult. abruptly to the rugged outline of the an easy trip. The writer liked the The configuration of the stars Woila Circuit, a fi rm blue silhouette idea but decided to go a day early on the distant horizon. Below us and is more regular with only small and with the help of Terence and changes over many years. Two slightly to the east, the Tuross River Max, measure and check-out the formed a silver thread in its deep aspects here were relevant to our aboriginal stone arrangements on efforts. The stars, unlike the sun valley, fl owing south until it reached the mountain. Their likely use might the emerald green of its most remote and moon, have their own constant have been for initiation or religious points (with the associated small properties, the only human infl uence ritual but since there was nothing in visible in the whole scene. changes) on the horizon to rise and the literature search for ‘Aboriginal set. For example the brightest star, We couldn’t linger too long over this astronomy and Namadgi’ on the Sirius, rises at a point on the horizon magnifi cent view. I’d promised the web, it was worth a look. bearing approximately 110 degrees party we’d be back to the river for We were able to camp at a beauti- east of north and sets approximately lunch, so we detoured around the ful spot, do lots of measurements, 110 degrees west of north (for cliff below and on to a steep spur meet John and party, sing ‘Happy a Canberra latitude). The small leading down to a side creek which Birthday’, quaff champagne then changes of direction are measurable rarely fl ows, though it usually has return with the main party and some and also apply to the sun and moon. the odd pool of water. This time, interesting results. These changes are explained by the however, it was magnifi cent, rush- ing along crystal clear over orange bedrock beneath the rainforest trees and giving us a choice of pounding our shoulders beneath a waterfall or Seeing the route relaxing in a tranquil pool. We had a long lunch and a doze in the shade. Standing on the peak … sitting down nibbling … drink from water bottle rough granite under bum. Seeing the route, the body’s By the time we’d followed the creek ‘knowing’ how to swing off the peak sway down the ridge curve into down to the Tuross the afternoon heat the valley wade, through the heath, bounce over the tussock, sink was really getting to us. We stopped down by the stream … running water blessed in this droughty land. frequently to cool off in the river, and Ian took over the scrub bashing. On reaching a particularly broad band of alpine daisies twiggy bushes interweaving fallen trees, he unsuccessfully tried two in the tussock routes through and then a third. It bread and cheese was third time lucky, for there on the ground was David’s camera. under the snowgum We finally reached the cars after shared with a million flies 5 pm, having seen goannas 6 and 7. Gerry Jacobson The afternoon storm didn’t eventuate,

Canberra Bushwalking Club it March 2010 page 5 Trip report movement of the Earth’s axis and are called precession. The change in direction of the sun’s equinox since 1000 AD has been 6.809 degrees, its solstices –0.757. Sirius has changed –0.733 and the Pleiades 4.483 degrees. Given convincing alignments from the stones for certain stars/positions of the sun, this would allow calculation of the time of placement of the stones. What was done Before the trip, the signifi cant rise/ set directions for the sun, moon and the 20 brightest stars were calcu- lated for the period 1000 to 2000 AD at intervals of 200 years. This provided a list of relevant bearings. On Mt Namadgi 5 stone arrangements were inspected, photographed and carefully mapped. A further 6th and dubious 7th were cursorily exam- Max at the campsite in Namadgi ined. The stones in the arrangements ‘No 1 stone arrangement’, cursorily No. 4 was linear between the were small (dimensions mostly less examined, was ~10 m long with 9 and 23 m marks with bearing than 20 or 30 cm). All were located a well-defi ned two metre length, 349 degrees grid. The earlier section on rock slabs with northerly to north- the remainder following a natural curved away to the west about 2 m. westerly aspect. Some had obviously fi ssure in the slab and seemingly Whilst seemingly part of the stone been moved by weathering processes off-pattern. The primary bearing ensemble one was unsure whether leaving behind a less-exposed lighter was 346 degree grid. it was part of the pattern. patch on the rock surface. These were taken as the rock’s measured No. 2 had an axis that was 342 degree No. 5 was approximately. 19 m long location. grid but an over-all pattern that with two roughly parallel linear detracted from ‘rigorously direc- sections about a metre apart. Its What was found tional’. axis was 356 degree grid but the arrangement lacked defi nition. The linearity that we imposed on No. 3 was a very linear arrange- the patterns of stones enabled us ment slightly over 16 m long with No. 6 enabled the placing of 4 bear- to ascribe bearings that seemed a defi nite bearing of 0 degrees grid, ings. An apparently collapsed small reasonable. the meridian! pile of stones about 4 m to one side aligned with the beginnings of two linear sections each about 10 m Max and Terence examining a line of rocks long. The respective bearings were 274, 354 and 0 degree grid. An extension 7 m long aligned with 308 degree grid. No. 7 was a small scatter of stones about 1.5 m diameter. Whether there was pattern enough for an interpre- tation was questionable. To designate the bearing as one of those belonging to the sun, moon or stars is highly conjectural. For example, the 308 degree grid (=52 W of N) could be compared with the stars, Castor (49.4 – 1.9 precession), Pollux (54.6-2.5 precession) and a northern extreme of the moon (53.9+0.6 precession). These seemed too arbitrary as did the choice of suitable outlying points on the surrounding horizon.

Continued on page 10

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Activity program Activity program Arrange for your Club-related activities to be included in the program with Jeff Bennetts (Walks Secretary) Ph: 6231 5899 (h), Email: [email protected], Post: 6 Toohey Pl Wanniassa ACT 2903

Information for participants Distance and diffi culty Transport Distance: Costs are 37¢/km/car, divided equally among all participants. This (S) Short - under 12km/day amount may be varied at the discretion of the leader, depending on the condition of the roads and other factors. The fi gures given (M) Medium - 12-20km/day for the car as a whole and then, at the discretion of the leader, an (L) Long - over 20km/day estimate or range per person. Park admission and camping fees Note: In calculating distance, 1 km is added for every 100 metres are additional costs which leaders should list separately. climbed. Duty of care Terrain: Every person taking part in a CBC activity acknowledges that (E) Easy - fi retrail, tracks, beaches etc he/she does so voluntarily and that he/she may be exposed to (M) Medium - bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub risks that could lead to injury, illness or death, or to loss of, or (R) Rough - much scrub, steep climbs, rock scrambles damage to property. Each person is required to sign the club’s (W) Wet - compulsory swims, many river crossings ‘Acknowledgement of Risks’ form. Visitors are welcome to join (X) Exploratory trips. However walkers are strongly encouraged to join the club after a maximum of three trips. Booking Contact the leader early rather than late. Book by Thursday For further information see: 2.00 pm for the following weekend (both one-day and multi-day www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org walks) so the leader has time to arrange transport. Check with the leader about: Check-in after walks Before a trip leaders are to email or phone through the names of X the need to carry water, tents/fl y, maps, etc their party, and by 10 am the day after their trip report their safe X appropriate clothing, footwear return or trip cancellation, to the Check-in Offi cer, Rob Horsfi eld X any precautions you might need to take for severe weather ([email protected], 6231 4535 leave changes. message if no answer). The Check-in Offi cer or the Walks Secretary Ask about anything you’re unsure of, especially if you are new to (6231 5899), not the Police or other bodies, should be the fi rst point our Club. of contact for worried relatives if you are late in returning.

Thursday evening, 11 March: Flat Black Equipment hire Mountain – S/E Take advantage of the excellent gear that the Club has Meet 6.30, park at end of Frith St near electricity sub-sta- available for hire before lashing out on your own equip- tion for a wander over and around the little known, low ment. The Equipment Offi cer is Rob Horsfi eld, who can mountain to the north of the main peak for some different be contacted on 6231 4535 (h). views. No need to book. Map: n/a Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), 6274 7350(w), stan.marks@infrastructure. The equipment available and current rates per weekend/ week are set out below. Hirers are responsible for col- gov.au Transport: drive yourself lecting and returning the equipment. The hiring charge 13–14 March: Mts Kelly and Scabby – L/R (but not the deposit) is waived for members who are ‘fi rst Continuing check of the route along the ACT border. time’ weekend walkers. Maps: Yaouk, Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leader: Rob A deposit of $20 is required and part or all of this will Horsfi eld 6231 4535(h) Transport: 128 km, ~$48 per car. be refunded, depending on the condition of the items upon return (e.g. damaged or dirty) and whether they 13–14 March: Morton NP – M/M are returned late. Wog Wog – Corang Peak – Corang Lagoon. The tiger Tuesday walkers did this walk in a day last October but Item w.e./week I would prefer to take a more leisurely pace. Over two Olympus two person tent $15 / $40 days this is a reasonably easy walk suitable for those with Macpac Microlight one person tent $15 / $40 limited weekend walking experience. We walk in from the 3 season bag, mat and liner $10 / $25 Wog-Wog NP entrance past Corang Peak and camp at the Assorted packs $5 / $15 base of the Conglomerate Slopes. The walk will be almost entirely on tracks. (A section of the track from above the Trangia and fuel bottle $5 / $15 Green Hut to the base of the Conglomerate slopes was Snow sleeping bag, mat and liner $15 / $40 cleared by Park rangers and Club members last year.) Personal locator beacon – nil (see website for conditions) On Sunday we’ll return to Wog Wog via Corang Pool. GPS – nil (see website for conditions of use) Leader: Irene Davies 6230 1081(h). Email: idavies@ Check you have ALL the bits and pieces you need pcug.org.au Map: Corang 1:25,000. Transport: ~$30. when collecting and returning gear. Sunday 14 March: Ginger Ale – L/E–M A repeat of a walk I had to miss last year. Ginger Ale (1760 m) is the informal name given (not by me) to the peak next south of Mt Gingera. In fi ne weather the views

Canberra Bushwalking Club it March 2010 page 7 Activity program are excellent. It is a long walk of 24 km return (all but 3 km sides, wetlands and mixed woodlands. A good chance of on fi re trail), and 600 m altitude gain spread throughout the seeing a Kingfi sher. We will stay at well equipped cabins day, from the Ginini locked gate. Early start, late fi nish. in Tumbarumba ($25 to $30 per person per night). Maps: The pace will be moderate but a reasonable to high level Tumbarumba and Munderoo 1:25,000. Transport: ~$70 of fi tness is required. Map: Corin Dam 1:25,000. Leader: with 3 sharing (550 km return). Leader: Austin Kenney Jeff Bennetts 6231 5899. Transport: ~$22. Limit:12. 6262 2358 [email protected] Sun–Wed 14–17 March: Burrungubugge Sunday 28 March: Castle Hill – S/E River II – M/M A combined CBC and Parkway church ramble. Climb Further exploration of this interesting area following Castle Hill from the Tidbinbilla Road via the gentler walk 15–18 November ‘2009. Day 1 Munyang over N approach. Lovely views over Lanyon and the Disappointment Spur cross Finns river to Porcupine Murrumbidgee River, as well as a visit to the massive Hill L/M. Day 2 Porcupine Hill to Kidmans Hut via ‘tooth’ tors. Bring arvo tea to share. Around 5 km and Burrungubugge river M/M. Day 3 Kidmans via Brassy 250 m climb. Map: Tuggeranong 1:25,000. Leader: Mountains to Mawsons Hut M/M. Day 4 Mawsons John Evans 6288 7235(h), [email protected] Please to Munyang via Kerries and return off track via book with me, but make your own way to the meeting Disappointment Spur M/M Maps: Jagungal & Geehi point. Transport: Meet at Parkway church, cnr Sulwood Dam 1:25,000 Leader: Mike Banyard mbanyard@ Dr and Tuggeranong Parkway, at 1.30 pm and we’ll car netspeed.com.au, 0414 959 967. Transport: ~ 400 km pool from there ~$3 per person. Further details at http:// per car ~$35 plus park fees per person Limit: 6 jevans.pcug.org.au Tuesday 16 March: Corn Trail – L/M(X) Tuesday 30 March – Border Marker Hunting Walk the Corn Trail, which starts on the Kings Highway on the Boboyan Divide and Scabby Range below Clyde Mountain. To make the car trip shorter, we’ll – L/M,ptX walk down then back up. Around 26 km and 850 m climb. Follow the ACT border west along the Boboyan Divide Maps: Monga and Araluen 1:25,000. Leader: John and onto the Scabby Range for as far as time permits. Evans 6288 7235(h), [email protected] Transport: Return via the Grassy Creek fi re trail. Around 21 km and ~$30 per person. Further details at http://jevans.pcug. 300 m climb. Maps: Shannons Flat and Yaouk 1:25,000. org.au Leader: John Evans 6288 7235(h), [email protected] Transport: ~$60 per car. Further details at http://jevans. Wednesday 17 March 2010, 8pm pcug.org.au MONTHLY MEETING Easter (1)2–5 April: Nadgee Wilderness Epic Photography Walk – M/M Presenter: Michael Bowers Extended walk through the lovely Nadgee Wilderness Church auditorium: Hughes Baptist Church area following the Merrica River– Harry’s Hut– Nadgee 32–34 Groom Street, Hughes Lake– Newtons Beach circuit. Drive to Eden Thursday afternoon and stay at Great Southern Pub overnight. Friday early start, drive to Merrica River and head into Saturday 20 March: Nursery Hill – M/R the wilderness for a 22 km walk over undulating country From Nursery Swamp car park, walk up track and along to camp overnight at Harry’s Hut on the Nadgee River. to end of Nursery Swamp. Cross a low saddle and climb Saturday stroll further south for 6 km to overnight at through light scrub to the top of Nursery Hill. Return same Nadgee Lake with possible additional side trip (10 km way. Always a popular autumn walk. Map: Rendezvous return) to Cape Howe. Sunday head north for 14 km Creek 1:25,000. Leaders: Jenny Horsfi eld and Quentin to overnight at Newton’s Beach. Monday head back Moran. Bookings to Quentin. 6288 9840(h); 6243 for 10 km to Merrica River and the cars. Bring bathers 6601(w) Transport: ~$40 per car. to check out some lovely beaches on the walk back. Maps: Nadgee and Narrabarba 1:25,000. Leader: Lois Padgham 6231 3060(h); book by 18 March. Transport: COMMITTEE MEETING ~$55. Accommodation: ~ $20 for the fi rst night. Park Wednesday 24 March 2010, 8pm Fees: $5 per person per day. Limit: 8. at the home of Linda Stone Easter 2–5 April: Yaouk to Orroral Valley – 20 Earle Place, Page M/R We will take a hired minibus from Canberra to Yaouk on Friday morning and walk along the Bicentennial (26)27–28 March: Tumbarumba section of National Trail and then off track for about 3 km to camp Hume and Hovell Track – Sat L/E, Sun M/E south of Mount Murray. On the second day, over Mount Arrive Friday evening for a cabin based weekend to do Murray and then down the Australian Alps walking two day walks on sections of the Hume Hovell track, along track to the Cotter River. On the third day, we will climb well maintained paths with gentle gradients. Saturday: Coronet Peak (steep slopes, scrub), explore its interesting 21 km from Henry Angel Track Head, including Big granite boulders and descend again to the Australian Alps Hill and fi nishing at Mannus Lake. One climb of 200 m. Walking Track at Pond Creek Flats. Walkers who would Sunday: Henry Angel to Junction Campsite, 13 km like a gentler day will be able to bypass Coronet Peak return, lunch back at the cars for an early homeward and follow the track. On the fi nal day we will walk out journey. Both walks pass the remains of the gold mining on the track through Cotter Gap and into Orroral Valley, industry and diverse scenery including lake and river where the minibus will collect us. Grade is M/R because

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Activity program of the climbs over Mt Murray and Coronet Peak; the rest side trips with day packs to the plateau via Crossroads is M/M. Maps: Yaouk, Rendezvous Creek, Corin Dam: Pass (435069 GDA66), or other side canyons in the area 1:25,000 Leader: Linda Groom 6281 4917 (home) or towards Battleship Rock (easy to moderate scrambling, [email protected] Transport: ~ $100 per head for the scrubby). Suitable for people who want an easy pack chauffeured mini bus. Bookings and transport money walk as well as those wanting more “adventure” on the required by 12 March. Limit: 10. side trips. Map: Endrick 1:25,000 or CMW Budawangs. Leader: Jeff Bennetts 6231 5899(h). Transport: ~270 km Saturday 3 April: Mt Aggie and Bendora return ~$100 per car, ~$25–$40 per person. Limit: 12. Arboretum – M/E Follow the track from the car park to Mt Aggie (1471 m) Saturday 17 April: Moonlight Hollow – M/E with its spectacular views then along the border ridge We will follow Moonlight Hollow Road through open track toward Bendora Hill. After crossing the Mt Franklin forest from Bulls Head to Bendora Arboretum (lunch) and Road, use an old logging road to get to the arboretum for return via a disused vehicular track along the ridge which lunch, then on track back to the cars with more views. forms the ACT–NSW border which has some good views. About 5 hours actual walking. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25,000 About 5¼ hours walking. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25,000 Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), 6274 7350(w), stan. Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), 6274 7350(w), stan. [email protected] Transport: ~$20 [email protected] Transport: $40 per car, ~$15 per person. (9)10–11 April: Mongarlowe – Sat M/E; Sun S/M Sunday 18 April: Advanced Navigation Skills Drive down Friday night to Moon Cottage near (Orroral Ridge Area) – M/M–R Mongarlowe: On Saturday, we will do Corang Peak Dropped your GPS in the creek? Flat battery? For those and Arch (and the conglomerates if time allows) and who already understand contours, here is an opportunity Mt Currockbilly on Sunday. The former is a classic to practise your navigation using map and compass to take Budawangs walk, about 17 km (6 hours) walking a bearing to walk in a precise direction, and to ascertain with some great views. Sunday is to Mt Currockbilly, your location if you’re not sure. We will walk off track shortish, good climb but effort worth it for magnifi cent from Honeysuckle Creek car park, up a spur to Orroral views to the coast and the Budawangs etc, lunch while Ridge and along the ridge to Emu Flat, returning via a lounging amongst the coral fern. Back to cars about 4. different route. Meet at Kambah Village car park. Map: The house holds 6–8; others can camp. Maps: Corang, Corin Dam 1:25,000. Leader: Meg McKone 6254 5902, Brooman 1:25,000 Leaders: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), [email protected] Transport: ~$37 per 6274 7350(w), [email protected] and car. Limit: 8. David Eager, 4842 1169, [email protected]. Bookings to Stan please but, if you want to discuss the Wednesday 21 April 2010, 8pm walks, contact David. Transport: $115 per car, estimate MONTHLY MEETING per participant, $35 Walking in Italy Saturday 10 April: Corin Dam to Tidbinbilla Presenter: Mike Banyard via Stockyard Spur, Black Springs and Hughes Baptist Church Hall Fishing Gap – L/R 32–34 Groom Street, Hughes A combined NPA/CBC cross-over walk from Corin Dam to Tidbinbilla via Stockyard Spur, Black Springs and Fishing Gap. Around 15 km, 900 m climb including (23)24–27 April: Hume & Hovell Track, Wee thick regrowth. This is a partial re-enactment of a 1935 Jasper to Tumut – L/M expedition that searched for ski slopes in the Brindabellas. A 4 day walk from James Fitzpatrick Trackhead (nr Map: Corin Dam, Tidbinbilla 1:25,000. Leaders: Mike Wee Jasper) to the Snowy Mtns Hwy (nr Tumut). Day Bremers and John Evans 6288 7235(h). Transport: 1 includes a 700 m climb, days 2–4 range between $10–$13 per person. Further details at http://jevans.pcug. 20–25 km per day. Car shuffl e required. Maps: Hume org.au Limit: 8 in each group. & Hovell Walking Track Maps and The Hume & Hovell Tuesday 13 April: Coronet Peak from Guidebook. Leaders: Mike Bremers and Kerrie Tomkins, Rendezvous Creek – L/R,ptX bookings to Kerrie by the previous Wednesday. 0439 A friend asked me to check this out. Orroral Valley 700 474(m), [email protected] Transport: – Rendezvous Creek – Mavis Ridge – Coronet Peak – ~$60–$100 per person. Limit: 8. AAWT at Pond Creek Flats and so home. Signifi cant 24–26 April: Bundanoon bushwalking bonanza regrowth in parts. Expect a long day, early start and – Sat: S/E, Sun: M/M/part X, Mon: S/M return in the dark. Around 27 km and 1200 m climb. Drive to Bundanoon YHA on Saturday morning or early Maps: Rendezvous Creek and Corin Dam 1:25,000. afternoon, our base for the weekend. On Saturday after- Leader: John Evans 6288 7235(h), [email protected]. noon, we will do the Amphitheatre walk at Bundanoon, au Transport: ~$15 per person. Further details at http:// which features cliffs in Sydney sandstone, with a side trip jevans.pcug.org.au to Bundanoon Creek, total about 3 hours. On Sunday, we 17–18 April: Quiltys Red Ground – S/E or M/M–R will walk from Mt Waratah to Alexandra Park, Mittagong. This pack walk is 8 km each way on fl attish fi re trails We will start from the car park I use for the Hidden Creek from near Nerriga to a campsite on Piercy Creek below walk, follow the Mt Waratah ridge and then descend to the impressive cliffs of the Sassafras Plateau in the Hidden Ck and the Nattai River. We follow this river to Budawangs. Relax around the campsite, or do optional Boxvale Creek (the lunch spot of the Boxvale walk) and

Canberra Bushwalking Club it March 2010 page 9 Activity program then on to Gibbergunyah Creek and the Park. The walk tacular Little Forest Plateau with views to the Budawangs, is all on track and I have done all but about 5 km of it Pigeon House and beyond. Lunch at Ngaityung Falls. (I am told this bit is a bit rough in places). On Monday On Sunday, Ross will lead a walk along the coast south (the Anzac Day holiday), we will do a walk from Meryla of Murramarang, from Wasp Head to Richmond Beach Pass along the cliff line to a lookout near Yarrunga Creek headland, thence the Olympic Pool, through the Garden with spectacular views of the gorges and ranges in the of Unearthly Gums, via Oaky Beach and up to North area. The YHA is an early 20th century home of delightful Head and the cars. Each person is responsible for his/her ambience. Shared meal on Saturday evening. Saturday and own meals. About 5½ hours walking on both Saturday Sunday about 5 hours walking. Maps: Picton, Bundanoon and Sunday. Maps: Durras/Tianjara/Milton 1:25,000. 1:25,000. Leader: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), 6274 Leaders: Stan Marks 6254 9568(h), 6274 7350(w), stan. 7350(w), [email protected] Transport: [email protected] and Ross Andrews 0405 103 ~$150 per car, ~$40–$50 per person, Accommodation: 424(m), [email protected] Bookings to Stan ~$50–$60. please. Transport: ~$160 per car, ~ =$50 per person. Accommodation: ~$50–$60. Sun–Wed 25–28 April: Northern Budawangs: Sluice Box Falls, Styles Creek & Hidden Saturday 22 May: Split Rock – L/E, R Valley – M/R From the Orroral Valley we walk along Cotter Hut Road Day 1 from Sassafras to camp at Folly Point on track. and AAWT to Cotter Gap. We then climb through thick Day 2 Sluice Box Falls, Mt Elliott Pass to camp at Styles regrowth to amazing Split Rock (in Cotter Rocks). About Creek. Off track, thick scrub in places, approximately 300 20 km mostly on tracks with a 650 m climb. Maps: Corin decent and 300 climb. Day 3 Explore from camp Hidden Dam, Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000 Leader: Contact after Valley, Sturgiss Mountain and Dark Brothers Cave, as 1 May, Mike Bremers 6292 3408(h) or mcbremers@ time and energy permit. Day 4 return on track to cars optusnet.com.au Transport: $40 per car, $10 to $13.50 via Vines and Newhaven Gap. Map: Endrick 1:25,000. per person. Limit:8 Leader: Mike Banyard, [email protected] Tues–Fri 25–28 May: Budawangs – M/M 0414 959 967 Transport: ~$35 per person. Limit:6. Four days full pack hiking in the Budawangs taking in Tuesday 27 April: Paddys Castle from Tinderry Rocks, Corang Plateau, Corang Peak and Arch, Bungonia Creek – M–L/R/pt X Burrumbeet Brook, Yurnga Lookout and Monolith Valley. Bungonia – Red Track – Bungonia Creek – Slot Canyon Returning by the same route or possibly taking in Corang – upstream to base of ﬁ rst waterfall –Paddys Castle – Cascades. A walk hopefully in conjunction with the Jerrara Creek – Yellow Track – Bungonia. Great views, Shoalhaven Bushwalkers. Leader: Paul Ellis 0432 557 steep descent/ascent, scrambling, rock hopping. Maps: 613 Map: Corang 1:25,000 Transport: ~280 km return, Bungonia, Caoura 1:25,000. Leader: Brian Surin ~$104 per car, $26–35 per person. Limit: 10. (02) 4358 0209, [email protected] Transport: ~$100 per car, $25–$33 per person + park entry fee. Continued from page 6 COMMITTEE MEETING Conclusion Wednesday 28 April 2010 With the exception of the bearings 274 and 308, six others were between 342 and 0 degree grid, implying the obvious northern bias. The two exactly on the meridian Sunday 9 May: Orroral – M/R enhance this result. Note change of date from 25 April. A circuit walk in the If the 274 degree grid were intended as a measure of area south west of the Orroral Picnic Area. 400 m climb. an equinox (now 270) then it doesn’t fall inside the Hopefully lots of rocks to explore, but may also encounter range for 1000 to 2000AD (~264 to 270). Had it done thick scrub. Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25,000. Leader: so with reliability and precision one could have dated Roger Edwards 6288 7863 h 6208 5444 w r.edwards@ the placement of the stones. nma.gov.au Transport: ~$40 per car. Whatever the original purpose for creating the stones, 15–16 May: Mt Tennent Packwalk – S/M could it be said to have involved astronomical consid- Starting Saturday early-afternoon we do the short, steep erations? I think there is enough in the numbers relating (800 m) walk up the Alpine Walking Track from Namadgi to the meridian to say ‘Yes, the sun’. Visitor Centre, set up camp at the saddle about 1 km NW of the summit, view the sunset and Canberra lights and Note: The writer has data to support the above. the sunrise the next morning from a rocky outcrop near It’s surprising what one can do at a birthday party. the campsite. Return home by midday Sunday. Tank water is available at the summit. The walk will only proceed if References the weather is reasonable. Map: Williamsdale 1:25,000 Leader: Contact after 1 May, Mike Bremers 6292 1. ‘In Search of Ancient Astronomies’-Edit. E.C. Krupp, Penguin, 3408(h), [email protected] Transport: $25 1984 per car, $6–$10 per person. Limit:8. 2. ‘Spherical Astronomy’-W.M. Smart, Cambridge, 1965 (21)22–23 May: Durras weekend – Sat M/E, 3. ‘In Search of Aboriginal Astronomy’- Ray Norris, pp20–24, Sun S/M Australian Sky & Telescope, Mar/Apr 2008. Leave Canberra Friday night, stay in comfortable cabins at Depot Beach Caravan Park. Saturday will be the spec- Rob Horsﬁ eld

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Bulletin board

22011011 calendarcalendar andand Bulletin Board The Bulletin Board is for members to advertise (at no pphotographyhotography ccompetitionompetition cost) goods for sale, private trips or other personal bushwalking-related matters. The Club is not involved 2011 marks the Club’s 50th anniversary! in, takes no responsibility for, and does not endorse, the activities or goods advertised here. Hence, if peo- o honour this occasion CBC plans to produce a ple participate in any activities advertised here, they do Tcalendar featuring photographs taken by Club so as private individuals, not as members of the Club, members. and will not be covered by the Club’s insurance. Photos will be chosen via a photography competition, with the best 13 entries to be included in the Notices for the Bulletin board should be emailed to the Walks Secretary: walksec@canberrabushwalk- calendar. ingclub.org This full colour calendar will cost $10 but needs to be pre-ordered before printing. It would be a great CBC teams for the March 2010 Rogaine Christmas present for friends or relatives and a We’ve noticed that there are a lot of keen new naviga- wonderful keepsake of this momentous occasion. tors in the club so I’m alerting you all to the advance publicity about the Australian Rogaining Champion- To order your copy(ies) please email the Social ships to be held in the Snowy Mountains region on Secretary at socsec@canberrabushwalkingclub. 27–28 March 2010. ‘The course will provide excellent org by 30 June 2010, stating the number of copies navigational challenges in a beautiful environment two you wish to order. hours from Canberra’. It would be great to have a few CBC teams competing. Please contact Jenny Horsﬁ eld To enter the competition, photos don’t need to be 6231 4535(h) for more information. recent though they must be of areas where the Club regularly walks. Entries need to be submitted by Jatbula Trail NT – June 2010 Friday 11 June 2010. Are you interested in walking in national parks near Conditions of entry and the competition entry Darwin in June 2010? I have booked the Jatbula Trail form are on pages 14 and 15, respectively and in Nitmiluk National Park that links Katherine Falls with also available from the Club’s web site at: www. Leliyn (Edith Falls) commencing 20 June 2010 (there canberrabushwalkingclub.org/ are pictures and information about it on the web). This will take 6 days – the details of other walks (e.g. in A sample calendar is also available on the web site Kakadu) will be decided depending on the interests of at: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org/ participants. Please contact me if you are interested. Lorraine Tomlins – phone 6248 0458 or lorraine.tom- SSoo sstarttart cclickinglicking [email protected] Backpacks Backpacks – Macpac (Cascade harness), Kathmandu, Wilderness Equipment, Black Wolf – several new and some used (excellent condition) –most under half cost price – Ideal multi days trips – details phone Louise Thake 0428247570 Walking in England ? Or roots in England? You may be interested in “Awakening Albion” a new book about a seven-week walk from Cornwall to Nor- folk following the Michael and Mary Leyline. The book contains poetry and journaling by me and others, and is richly illustrated. I have some copies at the whole- sale price of $20. Gerry Jacobson – phone 6281 3850 DDiscountiscount ooffersffers fforor cclublub mmembersembers House Sitting for Bushwalkers Want to go away walking and not worry about the gar- Outdoor & adventure stores in Canberra who give a discount (usually 10%) on most of their den? Call Cate on 0407266942 and I will gladly look stock to CBC members are: after your place, experienced reliable and mature. Adventure trekking ‘Gear for sale’ table Lonsdale Street, Canberra City In place of our one-night auction, as in previous years, Belconnen Camping World, we shall put out a table at General Meetings, for a while. Oatley Court, Belconnen Hopefully it will be of beneﬁ t to those wanting to get rid of Great Outdoors Centre, equipment and those wishing to buy some. Please label 18–24 Townsend Street, Phillip gear for sale with adequate personal details and asking Tuggeranong Camping World price. Homeworld Centre, Tuggeranong

Canberra Bushwalking Club it March 2010 page 11 CANBERRA BUSHWALKING CLUB COMMITTEE* Position Name Home Work E-mail PRESIDENT Peter Jones 0410 564 002 – [email protected] TREASURER George Carter 6251 2130 – [email protected] GENERAL SECRETARY Linda Stone 0403 321 129 – [email protected] WALKS SECRETARY Jeff Bennetts 6231 5899 – [email protected] EDITOR Alison Milton 6254 0578 6289 2717 [email protected] MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Gary Trevean 6285 1135 – [email protected] TRAINING & SAFETY OFFICER Terence Uren 6282 2403 – [email protected] CONSERVATION OFFICER Quentin Moran 6288 9840 6243 6601 [email protected] PUBLISHER Tom George 6257 0613 – [email protected] ASSISTANT WALKS SEC Rob Horsﬁ eld 6231 4535 – [email protected] SOCIAL SECRETARY Brigitte Tabuteau 0448 261 170 – [email protected]

*All members of the Committee can be contacted in one email to [email protected] MEMBERSHIP INQUIRIES: Gary TREVEAN, [email protected] 6285 1135 (h) CHECK IN: Ring Rob Horsﬁ eld on 6231 4535 WEBSITE: www.canberrabushwalkingclub.org

If undeliverable return to PRINT POSTAGE GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601 POST PAID PP 248831/0047 AUSTRALIA Print Post Approved PP248831/00047 it

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