News from the Alps Clearly the First Objective Was to Put More River

AUSTRALIAN ALPS NATIONAL PARKS news 43 from the

alpsTHE ALPS PROGRAM. WORKING TOGETHER BEYOND BORDERS. SNOWY TURN-AROUND If you stop to think about it, it’s impossible to manage a natural resource like the Snowy River unless you do it co-operatively. But that’s hardly news to all those who’ve been working together to create an astonishing turn-around. This is a river which has changed dramatically in the last year, bringing genuine smiles all round. It’s a story that begins with the damming growing in the dry land to the west ever towards a co-operative of formidable of the Snowy River midway through last since. And while the grand vision has been talent, a river ‘A team’. It’s been these century, when 99 percent of the river’s a success on many levels, it has come at individuals - through catchment manage- water was diverted from its natural path an environmental cost to the river and its ment authorities, national parks agencies, which runs from the Australian Alps south surrounds. scientific panels and local communities - to the sea at Orbost. Playing its part in Which is why efforts have been who’ve authored this wonderful, hearten- the Snowy Mountains Scheme, the water made over the years to deal with it. Most ing transformation. harvested from the Snowy has supported recently, the Federal and two state govern- The plan has been simple (as all good cattle grazing, dairying and vegetable ments have put funding and resources plans are), to support the River to heal itself.

A huge effort, made by so many, lies hidden behind the 19 consecutive days of flushing flows, released for the first time last year. As the Snowy River rebuilds itself with practical works, community support and - crucially - 21% more water, many, many people are rejoic- ing. Check out www. snowyhydro.com.au/ for release details - it’s well worth a visit. In a program* to boost the numbers of the Snowy to help the river re-establish its natural River’s Bass (Macquaria novemaculeata), local boulder-bed, while on the Snowy’s lower genetic stock were caught in the Victoria reaches and transported to Narooma to form a captive reaches the East Gippsland Authority has breeding population. Between 2007 and 2009, about 400,000 fish were released into the river thanks to a been re-creating natural habitat by re- co-operative approach to their capture, transport and instating log snags so diligently removed breeding. This is the biggest river-based Bass stock- ing program ever carried out in Australia, and as the over a 100 years ago. Yet both catch- Snowy River restores itself to good health it’s hoped the factors which currently limit the Bass breeding ment management authorities share the naturally will vanish. *run by the Snowy River’s Welcome to another issue of news from two catchment management authorities and fishery the alps. As you read through the magazine a challenge of weed control along the river departments in both states. lot of what’s in it probably makes more sense if - especially willow and blackberry. It’s the you know who publishes it, and why... full ten years and while blackberry will The Alps Program is an unusual package always be a challenge, willow (dare we say just a ten-year-old promise. The proof is - government sponsored, cross-tenure, coop- it out loud) is now under control. running past everyone’s front door.” erative management. Somewhat of a mystery until you work with it, the Program is based But perhaps the biggest achievement And that’s exactly what is happening. on a brilliant idea now more than 25 years has been the collective support for allowing The weeds have been driven back. The old. Back in 1986, a group of forward-thinking the river banks to regenerate following natural vegetation and all that wildlife people in government decided that national this weed control. Says Graeme, “We’ve a that comes with it has begun to take over park agencies across the Alps should work great relationship with the farmers - who again. And thanks to the water savings more closely together. This was based on the reasoning that they were doing essentially the in the floodplain section of the Snowy in that have been made elsewhere, water same type of management across a landscape Victoria hold a crown lease to the river’s has again been released down the Snowy that is unique to anywhere else on the conti- edge - and all of them have fenced it off. River. One per cent is now 21 percent, and nent, with nothing more than artificial lines on a But that’s not surprising as they were a as Brett puts it, “It’s now an absolutely dif- map – state borders – keeping them separate. major part of the original Save the Snowy ferent situation. The river has responded First Victoria, NSW and the Commonwealth signed the Australian Alps Memorandum of campaign and a big part of the up swell much more quickly than we could have Understanding (AAMoU). The ACT joined a few of community support for restoring the hoped. You have to remember that a lot years later, following the inclusion of Namadgi flow.” The scenario over the border in New of what we’ve done has been based on the- National Park. South Wales is a little different. Here 102 ory. No-one has reduced a river to one per The AAMoU is a wonderfully simple landholders hold actual title to the river cent and then taken it up to 21 per cent: Previous page: Before and after document. It commits the four government shots taken from McKillop’s Bridge, bank, but again, all but two have come no-one has tested the theory.” However sitting over the Snowy River in the agencies to work together across the Alps at all Snowy River National Park where levels of management. From strategic planning to the party. Says Brett, “We’ve worked everyone can easily sense it’s all going willows have been removed to allow to willow control, from whiteboard to the field, hard on the public education - from to plan. Or as Graeme explains, “It’s early a natural riverscape to reform. “The vision of the Australian Alps co-operative media coverage to door knocking - and days yet for any results from the study Below: Before and after shots taken management program is of Agencies working of a regeneration site on the lower it’s become significantly easier now that being carried out on the condition change reaches of the river. With co-opera- in partnership to achieve excellence in conser- tive support, it’s heartening to watch vation management of its natural and cultural the recovery has become a reality and not in the river - but already you can see it.” a natural landscape heal itself. values and sustainable use through an active program of cross border co-operation” This magazine aims to report on as much ‘co-operative’ news as possible, and if you’ve noticed that the magazine’s editor changes The experts helped define and prioritise things needed to shift, the amount of water every three years, that’s because the Program is hosted by each of the agencies in turn. the key threats to the river, and the catch- being taken from the river’s natural course, So please, let us know if there is anything ment management authorities went to and something no-one could control - the you’d like to see us cover in future issues, and work. Says Brett Miners of the Southern drought. do enjoy this issue which yet again brings for- Rivers Catchment Authority, “There was Reducing the amount of water needed ward the faces and stories of the many people an absolute minimum of fuss. We’re to irrigate the western plains would take who are working together to care for a very special landscape. responsible for 187 kilometres of river, over $350 million as part of the Victorian, and the East Gippsland Authority for 156. Commonwealth and New South Wales We knew it would be a ten year program governments’ Water for Rivers scheme. Anthony Evans and we agreed, and got on with it. When This money has been spent helping water program manager & editor there are scheduled works, we simply corporations, cattle grazers, dairy farmers check across tenure to make sure we’re and crop farmers to use smarter meth- heading in the same direction, achiev- ods to deliver water most effectively and Published by Australian Alps national parks, Pro- ing the same outcomes.” Graeme Dear, efficiently. After ten or more years, 21 per gram Manager and Editor: Anthony Evans: NPWS office in Jindabyne (PO Box 2228, Jindabyne, Brett’s counterpart at the East Gippsland cent of the Snowy’s original flow has now NSW 2627), (02) 6450 5507, 0428 484 119, Catchment Management Authority tells the been freed up for release down its natural [email protected]. same story. “The key was to consider the course. As for the drought, it was simply For more information about the Alps, including information about the Parks, other publications river and its threats not the administrative luck that it broke around the same time. and news, visit the Australian Alps Web Page: boundaries. If you can do this you can During those ten or so years, not all WORKING CO-OPERATIVELY make sure a plan makes sense from a natural resource perspective; if it doesn’t, don’t bother with it. www.australianalps.environment.gov.au achieve a lot.” the action was happening out west as the For example, it’s pointless to control willow downstream unless you can achieve the same upstream which is the source of future infestation. Design and artwork by Tom Sapontsis. Editorial sup- spend time and energy talking about the natural resource itself and less about how your particular institution is set up to operate, port by Elizabeth DeFriest 03 9534 7970. Printed With both catchment management other threats to the River were also being • on ISO 14001 Environmental Accredited paper. authorities happily holding hands, their tackled. The to do list differed depend- (it’s not about how you usually go about things but a discussion about how everyone at the table can co-operatively work to support the A big thankyou to those who have made time to next step was to address those key threats. ing on the altitude and the nature of the natural asset). use your co-operative pool to gather information. Armed with scientific and local knowledge, the outcome will be better, (by be interviewed; and to the photographers for their • images. Without this support, news from the alps Clearly the first objective was to put more river. For example, at higher elevations, gathering local knowledge of what has taken place over the past 100 years to the Snowy River, it has been relatively straightforward to would not be possible. water back into the Snowy. To do that two the Southern Rivers’ team has been keen work out what to do to undo the damage). • constantly review the plan; keep everyone updated; and don’t overcomplicate things. 3 3 volunteers from the Kosciuszko Huts up and levelled and the rotted piers huts update Association dealt with the logistical chal- replaced with brick. The chimney was lenge of the Murrumbidgee River in flood last resurrected in 1972 (a plaque in to repair footings, piers, flooring and the the hut lists the volunteer groups as A lot of work has been done on huts fireplace, carefully preserving the hut’s the Kosciuszko Huts Association, the in the Australian Alps, a necessity heritage values by doing as much as nec- Monaro Acclimatisation Society, Tate given their age and their setting. essary but as little as possible. Where the Ski Club and Number 5 Squadron of the Weathering takes it’s toll despite footings were concerned, the floorboards Royal Australian Air Force). Since then the fact that they were created by and walls had to be carefully lifted for it developed a serious lean, so was care- resourceful craftsmen often using access, explains NSW Parks carpenter Peter fully dismantled and reconstructed. what they could find to hand. Neyland, “The walls didn’t have a lot of Funding for the program in NSW Happily these respected and loved bracing, so each wall had to be lifted a little was provided by NPWS and the National places are cared for by parks at a time. If you move the hut too rapidly Historic Grants Program, with conserva- agency people and volunteers. or suddenly, you can do major damage to tion works taking place at Wheelers, Here’s a round up of just some of the frame, walls or roof and the whole hut Coolamine and Bradley/O’Briens. • what’s been going on huts-wise... could collapse like a stack of cards.”As of- Late last year New South Wales Parks ten happens, a treasure of sorts was found In Victoria over the Labour Day weekend staff, contractors and volunteers worked during the works, in this case a tobacco tin Parks Victoria staff and volunteers on DAVEYS HUT (aka Hedgers, Wil- containing a newspaper clipping for a cure from the Victorian High Country Huts liamsons or Napthalis ) near the Gungarlin for baldness. • Association came together to work on River in Kosciuszko National Park. Built WALLACE’S HUT. Oldest of the huts by Tom Bolton in 1909, he and his wife MACKAYS HUT (aka Tibeados) on Happy in Victoria’s Alpine National Park, Wal- Mary lived there at the southern end of Jacks Plain in Kosciuszko National Park lace’s was built by the three sons of Irish Snowy Plain grazing sheep and cattle. was built by an Irish family who’d origi- emigrants David and Henrietta Wallace. Tom also acted as mailman for Grey Mare nally come to the Kiandra goldfields in The Wallace family had rights to land Mine, riding from Sawyers Hill to the mine the 1860s and then been shopkeepers in near Beechworth and when the boys in summer and skiing in winter. Adaminaby. They later moved in grazing were older they’d take their cattle up into Over a hundred years later the hut and in the summer of 1944 and 1945, the mountains over the warmer months needed raising and re-levelling, a tricky descendants Norman and Samuel Mackay to give their home pastures a rest. It was NSW National Parks carpenter Garry McDougal at Mackays Hut. task given the timber frame, weatherboard built a two-roomed hut that is best known during the summer of ‘89 that they built cladding and low clearance beneath the today by their surname. the hut: splitting alpine ash roof shingles NSW National Parks floorboards. The process, as described Typical of most of the graziers’ huts where they felled the trees, carting them staff and volunteers at Pedens Hut. by NSW Parks carpenter Garry McDougal in the region, Mackays was thoughtfully back to the building site; sourcing the began with carefully lifting the floorboards positioned: at the edge of the lease, on a six posts, wall plates and slabs from to spot the best load bearing points. From track, near a stock route, above the chilly nearby snow gums; hauling a huge flat there it was a case of jacking up the hut valley floor, sheltered by snowgums, and stone on a make-shift sleigh to form the to level it, again, very carefully. “Timber facing the morning sun. It’s also near back of the fireplace. The hut passed develops a memory and if you move it too aboriginal routes and camps to the high from the family to the then State Electric- rapidly or suddenly, you can do major country and being on the Kiandra to Ko- ity Commission before becoming Crown damage to the frame, walls or roof... there sciuszko ski route and the Australian Alps property managed by Parks Victoria. were creaks and groans with the occasional walking Trail it’s popularity continues. Management means to repair, but ‘hold it there’ but the project was a success The recent work by NSW Parks staff in a way that disturbs as little of the and the hut will now withstand wear and to the hut was relatively straight forward, original as possible. Rotted base boards weather better and for another 100 years.” • but made challenging by the heavy rain. and many of the support posts are being Floorboards were lifted to gain access progressively replaced, cut and shaped Tucked up near Tantangara Dam in to the timber piers; the hut was jacked with axe & adze by volunteers who are Kosciuszko National Park, PEDENS HUT is thought to have been built by Daveys Hut. Bill Adams of Adaminaby in 1926 using materials he salvaged from the original 1890s Pedens Hut, which was also known as Billy Wests Hut. The current Pedens is a post and beam construction with timber posts from the original hut anchored to a concrete footing with iron straps. The corrugated iron cladding is fixed to a timber pole frame, which in turn is braced by split slabs salvaged from the original hut. Apart from the floorboards, all the timber is split or dressed logs. In January, The NSW Parks staff and 4 5 hut so that we know that he built and as- sisted with many huts in the area including cliick & look Noonans, Upper Jamieson, Pickerings and If you haven’t already stum- Gardiners. bled upon it, there’s a magic “We’d done major restoration to the hut little word sitting on the Aus- some years back, and this working bee was tralian Alps web site which is to replace the tongue and groove wooden the doorway to everything you flooring in two rooms, as well as repair ever want to know about the two of the paned windows, install more Alps. Click on Education and a exterior hut slabs crafted in the traditional world of resources unfolds in way and completed some roof repairs.” front of you - text and images, Frys is a well loved camping site, set links, animation - gathered as it is on the Howqua River so close to together so that anyone can the Howqua Hills Heritage Walk. Access explore the Alps for whatever is easy now via the road, but in Fred’s day, reason and from anywhere. coming home from a big night out - or Alps Program Manager Anthony anytime for that matter - was via a flying Evans understands the necessity of fox over the river. • a tool like this for a range of people. Such as students of cultural history, And in the ACT on what was once the geology, biodiversity, ecology and more. Gudgenby pastoral lease located in Or the teachers who make good use Namadgi National Park, there sits a fibro of a setting with such depth and so Wallace’s Hut. cottage which deserved preservation on many options. Or the people who visit many levels. To begin with, it was in such the Alps themselves and want to bet- modern craftsmen. New timbers are care- butt split palings, a timber floor, snowgum a state of disrepair when the Park became ter understand the landscape they see. fully heat branded 2012, adding to previ- verandah poles and internal roof supports responsible for it in the mid eighties, that “The education materials have ous evidence of people interacting with the under a corrugated iron roof (sourced from it was almost bulldozed. But one person always been popular simply because hut: the names of cattlemen who first used Mary Goldsworthy’s property in Eurobin). in particular within Parks - Amanda Carey the demand is there for a collection of the hut are burnt into the tie-beams of the Given the huts remote location on the - appreciated its value and secured both resources about an area of Australia roof and at the back of the mantelpiece. western edge of the Bogong High Plains, a grant and support from the Kosciuszko people find fascinating. Recently we The slab walls are now complete as is the materials had to be flown in while the Huts Association to restore it. Known as updated the collection to include rebuilt tin clad chimney. Next time round it volunteers walked five kilometers in and the GUDGENBY Ready-Cut Cottage, more information, new topics and will be the interior that gets the treatment. out each day. • it’s an example of an early George Hudson new formats.” The materials are more In the meantime treasures discovered dur- Ltd. prefabricated (ready-cut) kit home, easily navigated on screen and they’re ing works, among them a 1917 Australian The Victorian High Country Huts Associa- purchased in 1927 by Bill Bootes. Initially also readily downloadable. shilling and a bridle, will be catalogued tion were also behind the recent works for use by visitors to the property, it was “Apart from recognising a need and preserved - all part of caring for a site at FRYS HUT on the edge of the Alpine later used as the manager’s cottage. for something like this, and making that means so much to so many. National Park. Explains Ranger Fleur Now fully restored it continues to be the resource available, it’s common Smith, “Fred Fry, a local forester and relevant to its setting as part of an artists sense to help people learn about and WESTONS HUT was destroyed in the co-incidently the key character in Neville in residence program offered through Craft gain an appreciation for the Alps. 2006-07 fires by embers which travelled Shute’s A Far Country, built the hut some ACT. Explains Brett McNamara, Manager After all, unless you know something the three kilometres from Mt Feathertop time in the late 1930s. Fred was more Regional Operations ACT Parks, “It’s a about the alps, you can’t be expected across the West Keiwa Valley. The original than an experienced hut builder, he was means of making the parks relevant and to enjoy and value it. And it’s in hut had been built in the 1930s by local an exceptionally experienced bushman. applicable to a wider audience. These all our interests to value a natural leaseholder Eric Weston together and Tom He always welcomed and accommodated people live and work in the cottage and resource such as this. Briggs. The post-fire rebuild took place fisherman and walkers and as a result through the residency’s open days, their Take a look. Click on : http:// over the summer of 2010-11 thanks to was a local legend. He had a unique hut work offers alternative ways to interpret www.australianalps.environment.gov.au/ Westons, at the post-fire rebuild opening. members of the Victorian High Country building style that singles out a ‘Fred Fry’ and respond to the setting.” Huts Association, the Victorian Mobile Landcare Group and Parks Victoria. Eric Weston’s daughter, Mary Goldsworthy and her nephew Brendan Weston, were part of the design team which aimed to replicate the original, and were there to cut the rib- bon at its opening. The original hut was built of woolly butt (alpine ash) palings, an earth floor and timber verandah. The original roof was probably shingle, which was later replaced with corrugated iron. The re-built hut was positioned on the footings of the burnt building, and was built from woolly 6 Frys Hut. Fred Fry and his hut. Gudgenby Ready-Cut Cottage. past, future and now a snapshot history Some of the best things come From this point there are now two from something that already exists, options - to climb up to the Gibraltar Peak 1850s The Reverend W.B. Clarke, and that’s exactly the case with the and enjoy the view from the new platform, a geologist as well as a cleric, new set of tracks that lie around or take the Birrigai Time Trail to the In- visits the Pilot area and finds the spectacular Gibraltar Peak digenous Rock Shelter. “It’s a place where traces of tin and gold in some of in Canberra’s Tidbinbilla Nature you can look at the past, the future and the streams. Reserve. the present: the 21,000 year connection 1870s The Pilot area is revisited The original Gibraltar fire trail has led with the Shelter; the future represented by miners who recover 10 lbs of people up to the view since mid last cen- by the nearby Deep Space Communica- tin concentrate from 15 loads of tury, and while the Peak and the outlook tion Facility; and the present by the view wash dirt. A canvas town springs have always rewarded the effort, the track over Canberra.” The reworked track feeds up, complete with school and itself was slippery going with some sec- onto other trails, effectively opening up a butcher’s shop. tions at a 30 degree slope. Clearly there network of options in the area. was a need to find another way to help As for the process, it involved much 1930s Prospecting continues visitors enjoy the experience. of the expected and some unexpected. As intermittently, leading to an- Perhaps the idea of building a viewing well as having a good body of information other small rush in 1935. The platform at the top was the catalyst. In any on indigenous sites nearby (thanks to the Mount Pilot Syndicate is formed case the resulting works have produced a 2003 fires, which revealed a great deal), in 1936: with leases; race and wonderful result. Ranger Murray Aston de- Indigenous Elders representing local com- pipelines; an improved ac- scribes what was done, starting with how munities walked the proposed new section cess road; an accommodation that tricky gradient was sorted. before works began, and indigenous complex of seven buildings and “Granite-based soil is hell to build on rangers were on hand as the track was several tents; horse yards; and so the great engineering challenge in this cleared. Things slowed briefly when large a kitchen garden. Due mainly to case was to create a track that’s an endur- bones were uncovered, but they proved to the remote setting, the Syndicate ing asset rather than an enduring liability.” be wombat rather than human. Apart from loses money and is abandoned To achieve this, ACT Parks and Conserva- the platform and table setting, over sixty by 1938. tion, together with contractors Harris and steps were set into the path using locally Volunteers at the Easter working bee. Hobbs and Makin Tracks, harnessed the sourced granite. Despite the usual noise 1940s A writer-recluse, Charles natural anchor points in the landscape. and disturbance, which included helicop- Carter makes his home in the Resilience has been built in through the ter flights to lift in materials, a lyrebird former mine complex’s mess careful use of gradients and strategically nesting near the track has stayed put. “We to do list @ tin mines building (not Carter Hut despite placed step-up points - and given the also noticed we’d opened up a highway its name). Carter prospects for track has already survived some major for feral animals - foxes, dogs and cats For anyone doing grubby, physical Manager’s or Carter’s Hut, digging out the tin and gold, breeds horses, storms, it looks like the design principles - so we’ve set up remote control infrared work in a remote setting, there’d old floor and replacing it with clay material shoots brumbies and grows are worth using as a template for future cameras and are feeding the information have to be an upside, especially brought in from the original quarry site vegetables. He dies on site at the projects. into our pest management plan.” if you keep on rocking up to take near the Cowombat Fire Trail.” age of 81 in 1952. “We worked with the saddle that sits Opened by ACT Chief Minister Katy part, year after year. Perhaps it’s the On top of this, volunteers relined 1950s In 1954 the Snowy Moun- between Gibraltar and the next peak, tak- Gallagher at this year’s Tidbinbilla’s an- mountain setting, or the camara- Carter’s Hut with fresh hessian, treated tains Authority upgrades the road ing the new track through the bush at an nual festival day - The Extravaganza - the derie of others pitching in around the inside of both structures with fire into the area and establishes a easier ten degrees, making more places to extended Gibraltar Peak track has had a retardant, carried out other bits of general you. Or maybe the understanding hydrologists’ camp at the Tin stop, rest and interact with the bush. Three huge response. Says Murray, “We’ve now that you’re protecting something maintenance, and gave the site a good Mines, erecting a prefabricated paths meet at the saddle where we’ve set a had people on the track from five to 89. to ensure it’s around for other’s to clean out. Not that the four days were a round table and three seats - it’s a natural It’s still a hard track, but there are so many appreciate. constant slog. “Most of these people are hut and toilet. Tin Mines forms meeting place which is somehow appro- places to stop and, in a way, people open Whatever the reason, 27 volunteers city-based. They like to get out into the the base for both the hydrolo- priate as Canberra means meeting place.” their eyes to a lot more.” from the Illawarra Alpine Club went up bush for a few days, and they took time gists’ measurements as well as over Easter to the Tin Mines, deep in out to walk up to the summit of Mt Pilot.” survey work. In 1967 the Author- the Pilot Wilderness Area of Kosciuzsko This caretaking support by the Illa- ity also builds the Cascade and National Park. A great deal was achieved warra Alpine Club is longstanding - since Ingeegoodbee trails. despite, at times, the threat of snow. the early 1970s as the caretaker group 1970s Attempts to re-open the Says Rob Gibbs, Pilot Area ranger working in association with the Kosciusz- area for mining are unsuccessful. with NSW Parks, “The biggest job was ko Huts Association for Cascade, Teddys 1980s Restoration work takes dismantling the chimney of The Barn or and the Tin Mines huts - thanks in many place, saving the two main build- Mess Hut with the view of reconstruct- ways to Club member Pat Edmondson ings, thanks to the efforts of the ing it later on. It was built in the 1930s with his more than forty year association Illawarra Alpine Club, with sup- on boggy ground and poor footings, a with the mountains, bushwalking and ski stone base construction with bush timber touring. And as everyone involved knows, port from the now caretakers, the poles and corrugated iron cladding. We if it weren’t for this support, these huts NSW National Parks and Wildlife also replaced the rammed earth floor of might not be standing today. Service. Left: The view from the new platform. Above: The newly crafted meeting place. 8 9

maul & froe Picture the gentle thrill of driving ” into Khancoban knowing that for the next two days you were going to be part of a very special, hands- on school, one where long-term craftsmen would lead you through the skills needed to built and repair timber huts. That’s exactly how 20 people from Victoria, New South Wales and the ACT felt in mid March, as they took part in the lat- ...one of the best workshops I have ever attended est Alps Program-led Timber Skills - it was educational and extremely useful...I have Workshop. already started sharpening tools and last week Khancoban was the ideal location, set made a maul.” Robert Cooke on the edge of Kosciusko National Park. There’s space to work at the NSW Parks workshop as well as wonderful examples It was a great opportunity to learn new skills, Carp, Cyprinus carpio. of huts in their settings to be visited as enhance existing ones, exchange ideas, discuss part of the learning process. A great products and materials, extend connections deal of thought and planning goes into beyond the border and tap into over 100 years of these workshops as Megan Bowden, traditional timber skills knowledge.” Buffie Harris NSW Parks ranger with a self-confessed fish fact find special interest in huts, explains. “We’re lucky to have a tremendous amount of In every Bond film, 007’s success is efforts are maximised. In other words, like mental tolerances - that has spurred this support, both before-hand - sourcing based on both respect and knowl- Bond, they have a team of people feeding Australian Alps-related report. Explains timber and setting it up ready in the yard edge. By knowing his enemy’s them information and useful equipment. Nathan, “We’re trying to work out their - and during the workshop.” This support habits, James always triumphs. One such member of the team is Dr current distribution, the potential impact probably stems from the fact that everyone And in every film, there’s an under- Nathan Miles. Nathan may not be a mem- and the threats to ecological communities.” understands that the workshop is all about current, of mutual respect between ber of Her Majesty’s Secret Service but Much of our existing knowledge of keeping a set of skills alive and active Bond and his rival and, on the rare he is ideally equipped as an Ichthyologist these impacts - competition for food and in a community of people who love the occasion Bond finds himself in the (based at the University of Western Syd- habitat, muddying the water - is based mountains. shark pool, it’s usually because ney) to take the first step towards finding on research carried out on lowland areas. Day one is hands on with everyone he’s underestimated his adversary. out what’s going on in the Alps waterways. Here carp are widespread and have the po- being coached how to use a series of And while it’s a teeny stretch to draw a With funding provided by the Australian tential to occupy even larger areas. Exist- tools to produce a range of materials for parallel between James Bond and anyone Alps Program, his specific interest in this ing research at higher elevations produces hut construction. Day two is a chance to managing pest species in natural areas - case is in carp (Cyprinus carpio), a pest differing - somewhat concerning - views. get out into the field with the coaches, to such as the Australian Alps - it’s not a bad species with the potential to step over the Some studies suggest that carp become study existing huts and see how the theory comparison. (You can work out who is line of balance. less abundant with an increase in altitude, has been put into practice. “By the end who in the analogy.) Using government data bases as a while others record large populations. of the workshop our participants know: As any park manager knows, a starting point, Nathan has gathered ad- Nathan’s analysis of the Australian what timber to select for what end use; the large part of the overall job involves ditional information from questionnaires Alps data has revealed that while the risk importance of good craftsmanship for lon- establishing and maintaining a balance, sent out to members of fishing clubs and of further invasion is high, control may be gevity; what preservatives to use and how; usually across a number of different parks agencies’ staff. The draft report - more straight forward than at lower eleva- where to go looking for original tools; how ecosystems. Pest species - those animals available from http://www.australianalps. tions. “Management could be as simple to sharpen and care for your tools; and which weren’t found in the Alps prior to environment.gov.au/publications/index. as limiting the carp’s access to spawn- how to use more modern methods, then European settlement - put pressure on html is a useful mix of findings and a rec- ing areas, which are likely to be more soften the evidence with traditional finish- these ecosystems, creating an imbalance. ommended plan-of-attack (aka manage- restricted in higher elevations. If we can ing techniques.” Of course this isn’t news and most people ment strategy). identify potential spawning habitat we can “In the yard we cut logs into lengths appreciate the negative impact horses, Carp were deliberately introduced to target management in these areas, making with cross cut saws; learn how to use a deer, foxes, cats and the rest can have. Australia in the mid 1800s and they’ve effective use of control measures.” maul and froe to pop off slabs; how to What’s not so well known is how much since spread to all states bar the Northern As part of the report’s recommenda- split shingles with a shingle splitter; and goes on behind the scenes to support Territory. It’s this species’ ability to spread tions, the next step will be to get out into create log-cabin-style mortice joints with on-the-ground staff so that their control - based on its broad range of environ- the field to learn more. the saw and chisels. It is very hands-on.” 10 11 a profound message

Over the last six months, a sign First Peoples. Our Country. Our Heritage. with a simple, strong message has Places where spirits dance. Visually they been installed across the Australian bring together the eagle, moth and the Alps. When the project is complete, mountains - key elements with special the vast majority of visitors to the Alps significance to those cultures with con- will encounter these ‘totems’ and nections to this landscape going back be exposed to a profound message. thousands of years. The totem idea was born during the The first totem was put in place at first gathering of Traditional Owners from Namadgi National Park with Adrian Brown, across the Australian Alps. That was back Ngunnawal Caring for Country Ranger, in 2005, and those present collectively playing a hands on role. “These totems encouraged parks managers to find some are important because they show people way to communicate the Traditional that there is a past; a history of Aboriginal Owner’s long-standing connection with the people in the Alps; an existence for thou- landscape to parks visitors. sands of years.” As the finishing touches Various options were explored until were put to the sign, a lone eagle soared the agencies and the Australian Alps Tra- overhead in an eerily fitting affirmation of ditional Owners Reference Group agreed this project which aims to promote both upon this final totem format. The totem a sense of welcome and respect. Keep a signs carry the words: Australian Alps look out when you’re out and about...

Gungarton, with Button Everlasting (Helichrysum scorpioides). and biophysical departments, the Hub is Perhaps it’s no co-incidence that taking a close look at a specific question: the Hub team have selected the Austral- the hub what are the tools, techniques and policy ian Alps as one of the two areas for their pathways we need to integrate biodiversity research, (the other is the Tasmanian Let’s put it out there - good man- into regional or landscape scale planning. Midlands). Not only are the Alps an area agement is based on good research Yes it’s wordy, but what it’s saying is basic of high conservation value, but there is - and wherever you sit on the sci- but also quite visionary. a pre-existing co-operative management ence versus hands-on management The Hub understands that land man- program in place. In other words, the fence, there is a growing respect agers (both public and private) need the agencies and partners who are part of the from both perspectives. There’s assistance of scientific research to plan Australian Alps Liaison Program already also an acceptance that the two and make informed decisions, especially work together to protect a landscape rather perspectives achieve much more in the face of current climate change pro- than isolated pockets of listed plants, when they’re combined. jections. And that in order to do this well animals and landforms. This is the simple philosophy behind the Hub needs to have a clearer picture of We can always do better and the the new Landscapes and Policy Hub* one what’s involved - the biodiversity values, Hub’s aim is to support us to achieve just of five being funded by a federal initia- the risks to those values, what works well that. Watch this space. tive, the National Environmental Research and what needs improvement. The Hub * For more, visit: www.environment. Program. is not only looking into ecological issues gov.au/nerp Right: Totem installation at Namadgi National Hosted by the University of Tasma- but also integrating social and economic Park (ACT), and an- nia, with research collaborators from a other, below, at Jokers aspects and how they might influence land Flat in the Bogong High who’s who of universities and their social use decisions and the future. Plains (Vic). 12 13 to clear a track from Catherine Saddle up towards Mt Despair; or the fact that the impenetrable no more section of the track between the Viking and the Razor ridge was so dense, the Imagine a track that snaked welcome step in the natural restoration only way it could be made passable was through varied landscapes and of a landscape, has also been a burden to create a corridor. And to do any of this wilderness areas; that linked Aus- to maintenance crews. As Jessica Taylor, meant the team had to carry in fuel, water, tralia’s high country national parks Department of Sustainability and Environ- saws and back packs. over three states. The Australian ment Forest Manager explains, fallen But their efforts are greatly appreciat- Alps Walking Track is all this trees and incredibly thick regeneration ed. When a set of walkers came across the and more. Just ask anyone who’s has made parts of the track impenetrable. team working on the Black River section walked part or all 650 kilometres “In particular, the section of walking track - literally breaking through the regrowth of it. Or ask those who’ve worked north of Licola around the Black River was to find the track ahead had been cleared on it, keeping it clear, keeping it almost impossible to find.” - they left chocolates on the contractor’s navigable. Because as wonderful It’s no surprise that these worst sec- vehicles in thanks. and precious as it is, it certainly tions were also the most remote. Distance, “The Track goes through some of doesn’t look after itself and there seasonal windows of opportunity and try- Victoria’s most amazing high country. It’s are moments when sections are ing to stretch the operating budget further the only way to see some of these places lost - until maintenance crews work have all played a roll. However all that so we’re really pleased the work’s been to reopen them... changed with extra funding. Contractor able to be done.” In fact, a 25 kilometre stretch near teams, dedicated to the task and camping Licola had done just that - it had almost on site have cleared and opened sections If you’re planning to tackle part disappeared thanks mostly to Victoria’s of the Track from Champion Spur Track or all of the Track, visit http:// Great Divide Fires in December 2006. through to Mount Skene and from Mount www.australianalps.environ- This major bushfire event burned over Skene through to Mount McDonald in ment.gov.au/walktrack/prepare- one million hectares of parks and forests the Alpine National Park. Behind this lies stay-safe.html for useful Clockwise from left: 1. Skillful chainsaw work converted this fallen tree at the in the east of the state, and the regenera- many solid hours of slog: like the one and Black River crossing into a log/bridge. 2. Walking in to work carrying fuel information to help you prepare and tools. 3. Meal break with unbeatable views. 4. Cutting a corridor through tion which has followed, while being a a half kilometres of brush cutting needed and enjoy your adventure. regrowth between Champion Spur and the Black River. 1412 1513 Victoria is responsible for maintenance of the concrete mix. A tandem trailer brought the facilities and conservatively estimates in the prefabricated galvanised steel frame a four-tanker 15,000 visitors to the site annually.) which was set in place to house the tanks As Ranger Wayne McCallum explains, and support the building above. The there’ve been issues with the old toilet, building itself - a low key combination of This story is a wonderful mix of A-line roof sweep and views down the val- functional design, logistical chal- even when modified. Clearly a new toilet facility was needed that would be straight- ley - is being prefabricated during winter lenges, barrow-loads of concrete, forward to maintain with as little negative in the relative warmth and comfort of the and an overwhelming respect for impact on the setting as possible. construction contractor’s facility. Work inspiring architecture and a breath- Anyone who’s visited the Gantner will begin again on site when the weather taking setting. It could equally be Hut, and the toilet, will also understand warms in late Spring, bringing the ‘flat- described as a story about building the importance of the building which sits, packed’ hut in and putting together the a toilet a mile above sea level... literally, above the practical workings. Not ingenious new below-floor arrangements. Fifty years ago, a young man died only would a new structure be expected Wayne, on site project manager and accidentally and his family responded by to fit in with its setting, but it must be a author of much of this design, explains. giving the people of Victoria a beautiful worthy partner to the architecture of the “The new system will use four 1000 mountain hut set in some of the most Hut itself. It would also have to continue litre poly tanks topped by two separate spectacular mountain scenery in the State. to offer what the old toilet was famous for, toilets, only one of which will be in use at The Vallejo Gantner Hut was deliberately an astonishing and lofty view. Happily the a time. When one tank is full, the door to designed to capitalise on its setting in a design by architect Tonique Bolt of North- that unit will be locked so that the other snowgum woodland on the edge of the East Architects achieves all this. toilet and tank can be used until it’s full. escarpment looking over the headwaters The project got the go-ahead mid The two full tanks will then be removed of the Macalister River. Designed by last year. Steps were taken to ensure there from under the building via a set of boat architect David McGlashen, the triangular were no vulnerable plant communities or trailer rollers on rails, and swapped for the shaped and buttressed hut was completed indigenous cultural sites to be damaged two empty tanks. When all four tanks are in 1971. by construction, then excavation began in full they will be transported out to the road Given its appeal and ideal position April. Getting materials and equipment to - either by air or by trailer.” for anyone walking along the Austral- the site is a challenge in itself. Wet areas The Hut, the toilet and the setting are ian Alps Walking Track in areas like the of the access track needed the ‘corduroy’ exceptional in themselves. The intelligent Crosscut Saw, the Razor, Viking or mounts treatment - fire felled saplings were laid design behind them adds yet another Howitt and Speculation, it’s not surprising across the road to allow the small digger dimension. the toilet facilities are well used. (Parks and dump truck in with the materials for

Left: The corduroy treatment on a wet section of the access track. Above: The prefab frame frames the view.

working with physical, economic, technological and They also identified the need for more social thresholds that could prove prob- effective communication of research, so cc lematic. The resulting report* published when we find out about impacts and solu- last year has emerged as a useful tool for tions, the information can be spread far better focusing efforts to minimise impacts and wide to those who can use it. This is Put Climate Change and the Aus- of climate change. a valuable report that’s well worth reading. tralian Alps together and you have Following on from this first report, the Acting on its recommendations can only a complicated situation. Those who Australian Alps Liaison Committee (AALC) make everyone’s job more satisfying. live and work in the mountains are commissioned Griffith University to nar- witnessing changes - warmer tem- row the focus, surveying park managers *Morrison, C. and Pickering, C.M. peratures; shifts in snow patterns; and researchers to work out what these 2011. Climate change adaptation in the intense fires; pest weeds and feral people in particular need to support their Australian Alps: impacts, strategies, limits animals where they’ve not been work. The results make interesting read- and management. Available from: http:// found before. Dealing with this ing. Those surveyed identified a range of www.nccarf.edu.au/publications/limits- is the responsibility of the parks, Climate Change impacts that are already adaptation-climate-change-adaptation- resorts and local councils. The affecting the Alps, including reduced snow australian-alps question is, what do these people cover, increases in invasive species; loss ** Catherine Pickering, Daniela need to help them best adapt to of endemic species and communities; Guitart, Mark Ballantyne and Clare Mor- change? changes in the timing of biological events rison. Climate change research and The National Climate Change Adap- and decreased soil moisture. They also monitoring needs for the Australian Alps tion Research Facility (NCCARF) began identified were more research and moni- National Parks: Results of survey of park by commissioning Griffith University toring is required for management includ- staff and researchers. Available from the to survey these stakeholders. Associate ing additional monitoring of snow cover, Australian Alps Program site: http://www. Professor Catherine Pickering and her endemic species and communities, invasive australianalps.environment.gov.au/publi- colleagues looked closely at the ecological, species and changing fire regimes. cations/index.html 1614 17 program update With the program winding down, the love of huts so to are many projects and activities. Following is a list of Following is part of a review by a patchwork hut on Bribie Island where some of the Alps projects over Klaus Hueneke* of anthropologist he painted abstract figures on whatever the last 12 months... Dr Dianne Johnson’s book Hut in was to hand. Kylie Tennant wrote some Alps 25th Anniversary: In late 2011 the Wild. Both author and reviewer of her novels at a now restored hut in a the Alps celebrated its 25th anniversary, are clearly passionate about huts north coast national park. Glenn Murcutt the focus of this celebration was involv- and this book helps to explain is famous for using corrugated iron in ing the community which resulted in why there are so many people like innovative ways on various new houses concurrent community events in all three them... and other structures. Ted Banfield and his states/territory. Hut in the Wild is a carefully researched wife lived a beachcomber life on an island Improving our understanding of fe- book that covers most aspects of hut of the Great Barrier Reef. ral horses: Work is continuing here on mythology, history and reasons for being. several fronts. A PhD student at Charles Hut in the Wild is a significant and Sturt University is investigating ways of The diverse chapter headings, including seminal work that should be read by all estimating horse density using ground huts as inscape, metaphor, tent, keep, relevant park managers, members of hut based methods; a study to better quantify caravan and as cubby, say it all. associations and anyone with an interest the impacts of horses around waterways For Dianne, a hut is many things – ‘a rest- in the importance of simple buildings to is close to completion and a number ing place from being on the road, a refuge of feral horse exclosures on the NSW / cultures around the world. It explains why Victorian border have been remeasured. from the weather, time out from the hurly hundreds of people devote so much en- burley of life, a return to the womb of our ergy and give up so much time to maintain Promotion of the Alps by: Adding visitor information to the website, which fantasies and a nest of our well-being’. and restore the huts in our high country. has seen a significant increase in the She thinks of it as being fragile and earthy number of ‘hits’; Updating the education at the same time – a place of solace and *Klaus Hueneke, author, photographer and resource on the website with the inclu- solitude, joy and containment. ‘It inhabits publisher (www.tabletoppressbooks.com), sion of an animated film on the origin of our memories and haunts our dream- was awarded an Order of Australia in the the Alps; The addition of new film clips to the website, including two recent ones sleep.’ Her enchanted hut is located in the recent Jubilee Queens Birthday Honours. on the Mountain Pygmy Possum and Tasmanian High Country in a kind of pri- Klaus has dedicated his like to bringing the Corroborree Frog; The development meval ‘Garden of Eden’ where it is remote the cultural and natural beauty of the Aus- of an Australian Alps Flickr site; The re- and quiet. The first time she experienced tralian bush into people’s lives through his evaluation and re-design of the Austral- the magic of this archetype was at Gustav many books and articles. His most famous ian Alps tourism brochures; Upgrading of Australian Alps interpretation including Weindorfer’s Waldheim Hut near Cradle book ‘Huts of the High Country’ captures permanent signs around the Alps and Mountain. Her heart almost stopped with the strong association many people have Recent get-together continues the social thread at Circuitts. mobile displays. recognition and to this day she keeps a with huts, and in a broader sense the Climate Change: Investigating ways of photo of it covered in snow. cultural history of the High Country. Klaus researching climate change with a focus For me such an experience occurred at now spends much of his time researching they went to Circuitts on management outcomes (refer to article Four Mile Hut in the 1970s. It had only re- and photographing the South Coast of within the magazine). cently been re-discovered and was almost NSW, but the people who love Australia’s When Lance Macdonald built Parks ranger and huts lover Megan Bow- to have been cut off and nailed over Cir- Operational Best Practice: the same as Bob Hughes, the builder, had mountains are very fortunate that Klaus Circuitts hut back in 1937, he den soaked up the facts and the folk-lore cuitts’ mantelpiece with an awkward result. A forum was held for operational staff left it on his last visit out from Kiandra. has spent over 50 years photographing on visitor service infrastructure; Another Every time I go there I am overcome and writing about this special place. Klaus couldn’t have predicted that on a surrounding the hut which is also known The door blows open to let James Davin’s forum aimed at bridging the gap between nice sunny day 75 years later, forty as Gulf Hut. ghost in to reclaim it. scientists and managers was held on by a warm feeling of safety, a desire to recently passed on many of his photos to the people would turn up for a high Among the facts: the four room hut At the get together, apart form the Management Effectiveness. The aim of meditate, admiration for the clever use of Australian Alps Program, and they can be country get-together... cost 243 Pounds Stirling using weather- great company, the food, drink, serenad- this forum was to give managers tools to recycled materials and simple gratitude viewed on the Australian Alps flickr site: Like most hut builders, the focus was boards and handmade concrete chimney ing (by Daphne’s son David Bell) and whip better assess and measure the effective- that it exists. Opening the creaking door http://www.flickr.com/photos/australianalps/ ness of their programs; To improve weed is like stepping into a Hans Christian probably on the logistics of gathering blocks. The hut originally housed stock- cracking (thanks to Mike Sutton), the day management across the Alps, with the together his materials and putting up a men tending up to 5000 sheep and 200 was a brilliant way to continue Circuitt’s assistance of Melbourne University and fairytale. In the Victorian High Country I functional structure to shelter stockmen cattle during the summer months and now connections. Says Megan, “Conserving the Victorian Royal Botanic Gardens, get a similar feeling at huts like Westons on what was then freehold land. Those attracts bushwalkers, riders and others huts is important not just because of their managers were taken through a process and Wallaces. who’ve had close connections with the hut visiting the northern part of Kosciuszko fabric and building methods, but also of prioritising weed management; And Dianne has trawled through and other research into carp distribution and quoted from a large array of books, from in the many years since do understand the National Park. Daphne Bell, the hut’s cur- because of the people and history alive fire ecology to support a growing body importance of celebrating its existence, rent caretaker remembers riding on horse- within their walls.” of data available to managers and other serious treatises about the German phi- and that’s exactly why they were there. back to help her father, who was property *Anyone with historical information decision makers. losopher Martin Heidegger to more playful works like Snugglepot and Cuddlepie by Making the journey out to a set- manager at the time, with livestock and about mountain huts is encouraged to Cultural Heritage: In building recogni- ting like Circuitts must work its magic, chores during the school holidays. contact: (in New South Wales and the tion and respect for Traditional Owner our own May Gibbs. Heidegger built a hut because there was a great deal of old- As for the folk-lore side of things, it ACT) the Kosciuszko Huts Association, Groups across the Alps, Aboriginal in the Blackforest in Germany in which stories-sharing amongst Circuitts family seems the hut is haunted by James Davin, www.khuts.org or the NSW National Parks totems will soon be in prominent visitor to read, write and contemplate. Other locations across the alps. (See story members, other families associated with once manager of Gudgenby Station who and Wildlife Service’s Tumut office on Australian artists and authors who get a page 13.) Recognition of the importance mention include Ian Fairweather, Glenn the area, and high country social his- lost his way in a blizzard and was found 6947 7000; (or in Victoria) hutsvictoria. of our European heritage was evidenced torians*. Set as it is within Kosciuszko dead in a snowdrift nearby. In a bizarre org.au/cms/ or heritage officer Catherine through the timber skills workshop (See Murcutt, Kylie Tennant and Ted Banfield. National Park, New South Wales National high-country twist, his long beard is said Bessant [email protected]. story page 11.) Ian Fairweather lived a reclusive life in 18 Since the team went into action in 2002 The engineers who built the Snowy his team’s enthusiasm and commitment it has used dedicated funds to carefully Hydroelectric Scheme, and the which has not only produced great results, plan, test and then carry out individually- excellence x 2 current team that’s rehabilitating but won them not one, but two Engineers tailored works over close to 400 sites - 36 former Snowy Scheme sites, have Australia Excellence awards: in Septem- of which need major intervention. The some things in common. To begin ber last, the state award for Regional program time-frame is 20 years, and it with, the site is the same - a col- Communities; and the national award for has already involved moving hundreds lection of mountain settings where Environmental Engineering presented at of thousands of cubic metres of rock and a range of challenges still demand Parliament House in November. As Ted soil in landform rehabilitation works as good engineering design to deliver explains, “There were many fantastic final- well as massive weed control measures results. There’s also team cohesion ists at the national level and I honestly felt and 800,000 plantings. The team itself - legendary in the case of the origi- we weren’t likely to win.” numbers around a dozen, but its ranks nal scheme and obvious amongst But the team was triumphant. In Ted’s are swelled by local expertise through a the team working today to both opinion it was recognition “for good de- network of contractors. Each site is unique re-establish the endemic ecological sign, good budget management and good - needing specific design solutions - and communities and minimise future outcomes. Our team is well constructed, interestingly over time, the process has environmental risk. dedicated and supportive. Everyone has both stretched and developed the team. According to NSW National Parks Re- their role, works are well planned out and “It’s about taking a fresh look at solving habilitation Manager Ted McDonnell, it’s people are motivated and enjoy what they do.” problems through engineering design.” 16 1721 you walk, run, or ride should Seems no-one quite tackles the to have completed this incredible Track Australian Alps Walking Track in in record-time. I am grateful to everyone have quite the same way. Take a look at who supported me and donated funds these three profiles and you’ll see for this Challenge towards the Australian been what we mean... Children’s Music Foundation – helping them provide the wonderful and much there Martie Buckland tackled the Track needed music programs to disadvantaged from north to south, posting on his blog* Australian children.” Field days are all about taking throughout, from December 11th till he Beau Miles - professional chal- people out of the field - where the filled his final emotional entry on January lenge taker - took on the Track backed by action is - to talk together about 15th with heartfelt thanks to the many a support crew. His Blog** includes this what’s being done and how. In June friends and family who supported him final entry. “Yesterday afternoon at 4:45pm last year, 30 rangers and field- along the way. His wife Sally, who walked I ran into Walhalla, close to 700kms after based staff gathered at Jindabyne to with him for a week explains, “He did the leaving the fringe of Canberra, having left compare notes on pest control. This first part on mountain bike with panniers 14 days earlier. It feels good to be able time the setting was Falls Creek and to ensure he would fit the whole experi- to stop, to take a break from the headfirst the topic was visitor facilities. ence into his Christmas holidays. This has drive, to sit. I am reflecting on the run Again Alps Program Director Anthony been a long time dream of his and he has now, drinking tea, watching the world Evans played host, and during the two day absolutely loved it - even the hairy bits, news on mute. It was an incredible experi- gathering there wasn’t the slightest hint of such as dodging lightning bolts on the ence. Two weeks of simplistic, anxious, butcher paper or a whiff of workshop-think Main Range and scrub bashing over the physically elevated existence in a whirl- tank. “People like these field days because Vikings. He has spent lots of days by him- wind of forward momentum. Very little they’re hard-core and tangible, a chance to self but then also had great chats along time to dwell or contemplate... The highs discuss real day-to-day issues with others the way with rangers and fellow walkers. are as categorical as the lows. Running at in the similar roles. They come to compare *beta.offexploring.com/martiebuck- dawn over Mt. Speculation and the Cross notes across the borders, to look at their land/blog Cut Saw dropping in and out of the cloud core business activities, to share options Chris Sexton took on the Track, both layer was simply incredible. It felt like you and ideas.” as a record breaking attempt, and to raise could fall and not get hurt. The dark days Presentations take the form of a funds for the Australian Children’s Music of swampy bogs (Buenba hut site heading staff information exchange and everyone Foundation. Setting out from Walhalla, towards Johnies Top) and large tracts of present has the same aim - to increase he hiked and ran solo and unsupported overgrown trail are just as fresh in the the quality of operations. At Falls Creek along the Track in only 16 days, reaching minds-eye, but like all good stories, make the information and methods-sharing Canberra two days later than he’d hoped the aftermath a little more satisfying. My centred on remote toilets, walking due to an ankle injury. At the finish Chris pride is in the map and compass naviga- Endurance men, from tracks, picnic tables and other furniture, top: Martie Buckland, admitted he’d been looking forward to the tion of the track...” horse camps along with everything else Chris Sexton and Beau personal challenge. “I am just so thrilled **http://beaumilesfilm.com/blog.php Miles. designed to improve the visitor experience but also reduce potential negative impacts. A sole specialist guest speaker was invited: Ian Gough of Gough Plastics, manufacturers of toilets designed for people news sensitive remote locations. Interest was Sally Barnes has been appointed to the practice - is also made up of representa- as keen as expected, and the discussion position of Chief Executive of the Office of tives from the state agencies. The change and debate regarding options for manag- Environment and Heritage and Bob Conroy of face in this instance is Daniel Iglesias ing liquids and solids was protracted. now represents NSW. The new Head of who is taking over from Stephen Hughes, Regardless of the subject matter, the same Parks Victoria, Bill Jackson, is taking up representing the ACT. Daniel was recently management issues popped up as per In the last six months there have the Victorian seat as Chris Rose moves to appointed Director, ACT Parks and usual - how to best manage any remote been a couple of face changes take up his new position, General Manager Conservation Service, having connections infrastructure taking budget and a dynamic within the machinery behind the of Regions. with both Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and landscape into account. Australian Alps Program... When they meet, the Heads Group Namadgi National Park and an interest It’s been said before so it may as well There’s been a shuffle within the Heads makes the big overview decisions which in bringing new ideas and the collective be said again: it’s a fast, chock full session of Agencies Group which until recently affect the Alps Program - advising the Aus- wisdom of the ACT Park’s Service to the which gives everyone present lots to take included Sally Barnes (NSW Parks and tralian Alps Liaison Committee on policy, committee. Along with Daniel, the Liaison home and think about, not to mention a few Wildlife Service), Faye Steward (ACT priorities, strategies and negotiations for Committee includes members Steve Parks Victoria ranger Rudi new contacts to chase up when you need Parks and Conservation Service), Chris funding and in-kind support. Horsley (NSW), Peter Jacobs (VIC) Pleschutschnig on the rub- more information. Keep a look out for the Rose (Parks Victoria) and Peter Cochrane The Liaison Committee - which takes ber tiles lining the Wallaces and Mark Taylor representing the Heritage Trail walking track. next one and make a point to be there. (the Commonwealth’s National Parks). the Head Group’s direction and puts into Commonwealth. 2218 23 Above: Wet but happy birhday guests. Below: Uncle Vince Bulger’s smoking ceremony at Kiandra, site of wild weather birthday the NSW celebrations.

Yes, the weather was foul, but shifted to a dryer gathering in Traralgon valued by many people who could never that didn’t wipe out the planned thanks to the torrential rain. And in New be accused of being fair-weather-friends. celebrations. The aim was to give South Wales, the festivities made good *The Australian Alps Program is the people a chance to rejoice in use of the Kiandra Court House from hands on part of the Memorandum of Un- the fact that the Australian Alps where keen souls ventured out on guided derstanding signed by Victoria, New South Program* is now 25 years strong, walks, again, in the rain. Wales, the ACT and the Commonwealth and despite what Program Director The message must surely be that the Government 25 years ago - the aim being Anthony Evans describes, “as filthy Alps, and the Program which encourages to work together to protect and conserve a day as you could imagine”, that’s their co-operative management, are truly our Alps forever. exactly what took place. “We planned get togethers in three locations across the Alps in a way that would let the people with a strong affiliation with the Alps recognise this milestone. Then on the day it rained, not just in one location but across all three.” Perhaps not surprisingly the bad weather didn’t keep people away - the guests were Alps people after all. In the ACT, guests took a ranger guided walk along 14 kilometres of the Australian Alps Walking Track to finish at Namadgi. Admittedly, in Victoria a walk over the Baw Baw section of the Track

people working together A NATIONAL HERITAGE for the LISTED SITE Australian www.environment.gov.au/heritage Alps The statements made in “news from the alps” are those of the various individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Australian, New South Wales, Victorian or ACT Governments or their agencies.