Magazine of the Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs (NSW) Inc ISSN 0313 2684 Autumn issue - February 1997 Volume 22 No 3 http://www.fastlink.com.au/subscrib/bushwalking/index.html The Loved to Death Syndrome Part 1 - - The Latest Chapter. Wilson's Promontory A new safety upgrade pro- by John Macris posal for Warragamba Dam has The southern most feature Confederation's Conservation Officer been on public display since No- vember. This proposal is for a new on the Australian mainland was downgrading of the lighthouse side spillway to be built so as to set aside as one of Victoria's road to a walking track. make the dam 100% structurally first National Parks in 1908. Instead people were shocked secure in the largest probable This was a spectacular achieve- to find recommendations for built flood. Unlike the previous proposal ment, protecting nearly 50,000 accommodation within the park. to raise the wall of the dam by 23 hectares and 130 km of coastline The plan proposes that a 150 bed metres, this structure will not allow in a largely undisturbed state. 3-4 star licensed lodge be built at the temporary or permanent storage of water above the current full storage level and thus poses no threat to upstream wilderness ar- eas and wild rivers like the Kowmung. The former Dam raising En- vironmental Impact Assessment was made available to interested groups after the abandonment of the proposal. Within its numerous volumes (some would say well concealed) was a cost to benefit analysis that forecast a massive expansion of housing on the floodplain once mitigation was available. This is along a river sys- tem already in a poor state of health from urban pressures. In Wilson's Promontory National Park photo courtersy of Webster's Multimedia contrast, the new project and ac- companying floodplain manage- ment strategy will help to spare the Wilson's Promontory is now Tidal River and a 45 bed serviced floodplain from further develop- extremely popular with walkers lodge and four huts for the use of ment. including many from New South commercial operations be built in Although it might not be nor- Wales, where, with rare excep- remote areas of the park. The light- mal practice for bushwalkers to be tion, the experience of solitude house track issue was left open making supporting submissions to and genuine remoteness is hard to with possibilities including track a major capital works project, in find along our coast. In recent extension and greater use by man- this case we know what the alter- years overnight walking in the agement vehicles. native was and submissions are park has been under a permit sys- A very strong public response now very important to see the spill- tem so as to keep numbers to ac- has been generated, with the Victo- way commenced. The dam raising ceptable levels for the areas natu- rian National Parks Association has thankfully been rejected by the ral integrity to be maintained. spearheading action against the current State Government in favour The draft of a new plan of plan. Confederation has written to of this option and if construction management for the Park was Victoria's Minister for Conserva- can proceed within the year then hoped by those who enjoy the tion Marie Tehan adding our voice the aims of the anti raise the dam Prom as it is, to recommend con- to the strong opposition to develop- campaign will have been finally servation priority and the official ment on Wilson's Promontory. achieved in full. The Bushwalker Committee Members The Bushwalker Contributions, letters to the President Country Clubs Representative Brian Walker (02)9969-8476 Nuri Chorvat (042) 29-6746 editor, original cartoons and sug- e-mail [email protected] E-mail [email protected] gestions are welcome. They Coast & Mountain Walkers South Coast Bushwalking Club should be sent to the address be- low. Except for short notes or let- Vice-President Training Officer ters, all contributions should be Don Brooks (02)9807-1657 Andy Macqueen (047)51-2556 accompanied with text file on The Bush Club Springwood Bushwalking Club three and a half inch floppy disk in IBM format or E-Mail. Secretary Wilderness Rescue officer Bill Holland (02)9484-6636 Advertising rates are avail- Keith Maxwell (02)9622-0049 able on request.Ring John Clarke The Bush Walkers Rescue Number M 019395047 on (02) 9744-1916 [email protected] Pager 106020 #277321 Mount Druitt Bushwalking Club Distribution is through af- Assistant Secretary filiated clubs, gear shops,council Vivien Dunne (02) 9522-6508 Conservation Officer information centres and NPWS National Parks Association John Macris (02) 9526-7363 offices. National Parks Association Address correspondence to Treasurer The Editor, The Bushwalker, Ken Pickering (047)39-1346 Public Officer Springwood Bushwalking Club Bushwalkers NSW PO Box 2090 Jim Callaway (02)9520-7081 GPO Sydney 1043. Sydney Bush Walkers Tracks and Access E-mail [email protected] Alex Tucker (02)9451-4028 The Confederation of National Parks Association Magazine Editor Bushwalking Clubs NSW Inc Colin Wood, Tel (046) 26 5513 H represents approximately 62clubs Insurance officer & Membership secretary 041-9608561 Mobile E-Mail [email protected] with a total membership around Maurice Smith 029587 6325 7500 bushwalkers. Formed in Sutherland Bushwalking Club 1932, the Confederation provides [email protected] a united voice on conservation and other issues, runs training courses for members, and pro- vides for the public a free wilder- In This Issue ness search and rescue service. Loved to Death Wilson's Promotory...... 1 People interested in joining a bushwalking club are invited to Warragamba Dam - The Latest Chapter...... 1 write to the Secretary of the Con- President's Report...... 3 federation of Bushwalking Clubs at the above address for informa- The Naming of Singajawel Creek, Mt Solitary...... 4 tion on clubs in their area. Or web Calendar...... 5 site http://www.fastlink.com.au/ subscrib/bushwalking/index.html Philosophical Bushwalking Course...... 5 Printed on recycled paper by Skills and Training, What is the Future...... 6 MLC Powerhouse Design Centre, Casula Training Workshop...... 7 The Bushwalker is the maga- Conservation Report - Loved to Death...... 9 zine of the Confederation of Proposed Code of Ethics...... 10 Bushwalking Clubs NSW Inc. It's published quarterly. The aim of the Sydney YMCA - Proud Tradition in Bushwalking...... 13 magazine is to provide articles and Take a Magic Carpet Ride with Balloon Aloft...... 14 information of interest to the mem- bers of clubs affiliated with the Mt Paralyser Log Book...... 16 Confederation and bushwalkers Blue Mountains Canyons...... 18 generally. Any opinions expressed by individual authors do not always Bundanoon - Bushwalkers Paradise...... 19 represent the official views of the Confederation.

Page 2 The Bushwalker One flash and he’s gone!

It is too early to say signs standards, it should be this Confed- look hopeful. But they don’t look eration and not any professional bad either. From what I’ve heard so body. We expressed our extreme far, I feel optimistic that access to displeasure at having the pastime places currently ‘off limits’ may be of bushwalking described as part of permitted in future. the ‘outdoor recreation industry.’ Return of lost sheep Draft Code of Ethics I have had a couple of con- A revised Code of Ethics is A few fast words from servations recently with the Presi- included in this issue of The dent of the Catholic Bushwalking Bushwalker. Please let me have the President

Here’s a quick report, written hastily before I dash off for my annual sojourn in the Tasmanian wilder- ness. Blanket consents There has been no further word from the NPWS on the ‘blanket consent’ shemozzle reported in previous issues of The Bushwalker. I hope this is because the Service has found a way to change the of- fending regulations. Looking from the Summit of Cradle Mtn

Access to prohibted We expressed our extreme Club. There are your comments, suggestions, catchments displeasure at having the signs that this club, amendments as soon as possible. pastime of bushwalking I have been to once a strong sup- The final draft will be presented for described as part of the several meetings at porter of Confed- consideration soon, possibly at the ‘outdoor recreation industry.’ Sydney Water Corpo- eration, is consider- next general meeting in February. ration on the subject ing re-joining. I’m sure many members would be I’ll catch up in the next is- of access to lands now jointly con- sue with anything I’ve forgotten to trolled by Sydney Water and the pleased to see this long-established Sydney club back in the fold. mention. In the meantime, don’t NPWS. Sydney Water is going to forget: communication is a two- great lengths to ensure all inter- ORCA way flow. The management com- ested parties have a chance to put mittee needs your input. With their cases. Confederation continues to phone, fax or E-mail, it’s never keep a wary eye on the introduction A series of seminars involv- been easier to contact the key of- of standards for outdoor profes- fice bearers. So let’s have your ing various stake-holders (includ- sionals. Recently, we learnt that our ing bushwalkers) will be held early comments, suggestions, recommen- involvement had been misrepre- dations. this year. Confederation will be in- sented and had to ask that Confed- volved and I aim to ensure that our eration not be shown as an official Happy New Year and Good arguments for improved access are supporter of these proposals. Walking in 1967 strongly presented. I will report in more detail as events unfold. At We are firmly of the belief this stage it is all talk and no ac- that if any organisation is going to tion. specify bushwalking leadership

Page 3 The Bushwalker The Naming of Singajingawel Creek Mt Solitary Singajingawel just took a light lunch and explored back to camp We all returned to up the “Knife-edge” and along the Katoomba across the Jamieson Val- By Dorothy Lawry top of the mountain, finding water ley. Published in 'The in two creeks before we turned Bushwalker' 1939 (Sydney Bush Continued on page 8 Walkers, The H.H. Club) Apparently it is high time that the origin of this name was recorded. Recently the founder of one of the younger walking clubs said to me: “I think ‘Singajingawel’ is the most musical and pleasing of all the aboriginal place-names I have heard; don’t you? “Sorry,” I replied, “but it is not aboriginal. It Is a corruption of ‘Sing-a-jingle-well.’ and it was so named by my friends, the Taylors, in October, 1930.” This is the story of the nam- ing: In October, 1927, Evan Taylor, his wife. Dorothea, and I set out to try to clamber on to, and over, Mt. Solitary, Dorothea and I View from Mt Solitary looking south

Patagonia same as last time

Page 4 The Bushwalker Philosophical Bushwalking Course by Roger Lainson, Yarrawood party, pitching in to collect fire- other, I suppose) has unwritten but Bushwalking Club. wood for all, and generally looking quite clearly recognised ethics after each other. This change of so- about map reading. These are that A what?? What is this per- cial emphasis is one reason why it is quite OK for all walkers in the son raving about? bushwalking is a different world. group to actively discuss where we Let me explain. To my mind, And the course? Well, the are and where we are going - in fact bushwalking as a social event Club to which I belong has for most leaders positively encourage makes a most interesting contrast many years run a formal course this. So most walkers bring their with normal suburban social life. which is an Introduction to own map and compass, and en- Most of us spend most of our time Bushwalking and Camping. We hance their enjoyment of the scen- being competitive and dependent. don't give lectures on philosophy, ery by keeping track of progress. We compete all the time - for road but we do try to teach the practical Independence, you see. At the same space, for jobs, for educational aspects of bushwalking. There is so time it is recognised that after all places, for desirable partners, for much for a beginner to learn ... the argu ... er, discussion, it is the business, for social prestige ... the Suitable equipment, leader's responsibility to make the list goes on and on. At the same For example. We start by try- final decision about the route for time, we depend on a host of other ing to tell people what they really the good of the whole party. Inde- people - to provide us with food in need to go day walking and base pendence - and cooperation. the shops, to provide camping: suitable Fortunately, bushwalking isn't heating and lighting, Introduction to Bushwalking clothes, how to just about philosophy. It's about transport, mail, and and Camping. choose a sleeping walking, and great scenery. It's so on. Very few of bag, what sort of about simple satisfying meals, and us actually produce any of life ne- tent to borrow and how to put it up, sitting around the campfire. It's cessities, and none of us produce what a daypack looks like and what about moderate exercise, and good all of life necessities. to put in it. We tell them what they companionship. Oh, blow the phi- A friendly bushwalking group don't need to buy. We try to help losophy - let's go for a walk! has quite the opposite emphasis. them sort out what they need as in- For details of Yarrawood Walkers are self-reliant, even if just dividuals. We don't tell them the and its course, see the ad on page for the weekend. They take pride in philosophy (at least, I can't remem- nine or contact the Secretary, carrying all their weekend require- ber a leader actually raving on like Yarrawood Bushwalking Club ments in a manageable pack, and this) but we try to show people Inc, PO Box 113, Bexley North, many get quite a kick out of this how to be self-reliant as well as NSW 2207. feeling of temporary independence. comfortable and safe. Members of the group also cooper- The course also devotes a lot ate, by sharing the scroggin, slow- of time to map reading and com- pass work. Our Club (like every ing down for the not-so-fit in the DATES FOR 1997 Put them in your diary now! Make sure they get into your club’s walks program.

22-23 Mar: Bush survival training weekend 24-25 May: First Aid Course (phone Keith Maxwell, 96220049) 28-29 June: The Navigation Shield Rogaine 22 Aug: Annual Bush Dance 23-24 Aug: Annual General Meeting and Reunion 6-7 Sep: 65th Anniversary for - to be held at Govett’s Leap and in the forest 25-26 Oct: First Aid Course Lamington National Park

Page 5 The Bushwalker SKILLS & TRAINING: WHAT IS THE FUTURE? Andy Macqueen These days there are many Training Officer bers with an instructional handout issues troubling bushwalkers: vey was to probe the 'safety record' or guidebook. A quarter of the legal liability and the possibility of of clubs. And it appears from the clubs take advantage of Confedera- being sued; the need to make less response that we have an excellent tion's First Aid courses. Some impact in the bush; regulation by record: though there were report- clubs have a person responsible for land managers; and the rise of edly some 34 searches/rescues and training, and one club has a whole commercial guiding - to name a one death in the last ten years, most committee which runs a 3-stage few. If we in the clubs do not all of these (including the death) re- bushwalking course. behave responsibly, we may one lated to genuine accident, weather Consistent with the informal day face compulsory training and problems, etc. Only four incidents training approach, no club respond- accreditation schemes. We might might have been attributable to ing had formal requirements for even see the demise of club-based leadership shortcomings. skill levels for new members - ex- walking. Even if the number of inci- cept one which requires new mem- The key to responsible behav- dents for all Confederation clubs bers to do a First Aid course. iour is education. That doesn’t was 60 (one per two months on av- A few clubs have mechanisms mean we all need to do a diploma erage), this is small given the huge for making an assessment of the of bushwalking, but we do need to number of walks which clubs run - suitability of prospectives before be skilled - not only in traditional there are hundreds of club walkers they qualify for membership. This things like map and compass, but out each weekend - and the high usually means that prospectives also in the latest ideas on party frequency of rescues going on in have to satisfactorily complete two management and minimal impact. the bush generally. The number of or three walks. Some respondents Last year a survey was sent to potentially 'negligent' incidents ap- pointed out that responsible leaders all clubs, including the individual pears almost insignificant. should screen aspirants according braches of NPA. The purpose was The incidents should also be to the demands of the particular to find out what training is going seen in the context of the thousands walk. on, and to ask how Confederation of person-days put in by Leader competencies might become more involved. bushwalkers during the same ten One club indicated that its The response was fantastic. year period, through the Wilderness walk leaders have to hold First Aid Forty-four clubs responded, includ- Rescue service. qualifications. That was the only ing 38 affiliated clubs (two-thirds instance reported where walk lead- of those surveyed) and 6 individual Current training methods ers had to meet a qualification cri- NPA branches. Both city and coun- The survey found that most terion. (Another club stated that ab- try clubs were well-represented. clubs do not offer formal training seil leaders must pass an abseiling Many clubs mentioned that the for their members, though many course, though as this activity was very exercise of completing it had provide informal instruction during not specifically canvassed there been valuable. Following is a sum- activities. Many indicated that they may be other clubs in this cat- mary of the findings of the survey. needed to upgrade their training. egory.) Some clubs do address train- A third of clubs indicated that ing needs. Some hold in-house the suitability of their leaders is Historic incidents training sessions on various topics judged informally during the pro- The first question in the sur- and skills, and others issue mem- gramming process. Some rely on casual peer-observation of pro- spective leaders in the field, and in some cases new leaders are actu- ally tested in the field by observa- tion by a more experienced leader. Two clubs mentioned that they encourage walk leaders to un- dergo First Aid training by offer- ing 50% subsidy of costs. Some clubs admitted that they 'took all comers' as walk lead- ers, and the only control likely to be exercised was reactionary - in response to adverse reports by par- Looking south along the Coast track Page 6 The Bushwalker ticipants. Another said the question Blue Mountains-Newcastle area) vided names of people in their club of leader competencies was not rel- for centralised weekend courses, (35 people in all) who reportedly evant, claiming that its trips are led particularly in First Aid (Senior have appropriate skills and a will- not by individuals but by consensus and Remote), navigation, leader- ingness to be involved in Confed- among experienced members. ship, and emergencies. (There was eration programs, mostly on a vol- strong endorsement of the courses untary basis. Other clubs claimed What might Confederation do? which Dave Shepherd and others to have suitable people but did not Almost all of the respondents have been running.) identify them. expressed interest in some form of 4. There is demand from Almost two thirds of clubs in- training by Confederation. The country clubs for training packages dicated they would be likely to ac- most popular sug- for in-house use. cept a scheme wherein Confedera- gestions may be We might even see the 5. There is tion trainers were paid for their summarised as fol- demise of demand from services, and clubs or trainees were lows: club-based walking. non-country clubs charged for the training service on 1. There is very for a directory a non-profit basis. (The remaining strong demand for regular articles listing volunteer and professional respondents were split between on skills in The Bushwalker. trainers, training organisations, those who were opposed and those 2. There is very strong de- texts and other resources. who had no view.) There is, at the mand for a model 'Operations moment no push for Confederation Manual' for clubs, identifying com- Practicalities to move to 'professional' training, mon practices and standards for It is all very well saying what but it is an aspect which may one bushwalking. Confederation should do, but with- day have to be addressed. 3. There is strong demand out the people and enthusiasm to from non-country clubs (defined as do it we are wasting our time. Where to from here? clubs in the Sydney-Wollongong- Nearly half the respondents pro- It seems we could do more to help meet the training needs of clubs. But we still need to decide TRAINING WORKSHOP exactly what, who and how.

There will be a one-day 'The Future of Training in workshop on Saturday 12 April, Confederation' to come up with a strategy for fu- ture training by Confederation. It Review of survey results: what do clubs want? will also be an opportunity to hear about the latest developments in What’s in the new national competency standards, and ORCA, and the new national Out- what’s going on in the rest of the outdoor recreation sector? door Recreation Competency Standards. Any member of a Con- What is our vision with regard to the standards and training federation club with an interest in of bushwalkers in clubs? bushwalker skills and training is encouraged to attend. Further de- tails are in the accompanying ad- What is Confederation going to do, and how? vertisement. Details of the training survey results will be available at *** Saturday 12 April - 11am to 5pm the workshop.

*** Mitchell Park, Cattai National Park - turn right (eastwards) off Cattai Road, 6 km from Pitt Town It is with sadness that we re- port the serious illness of Robert *** Morning & afternoon tea, & BBQ lunch provided Lembit a member of Sydney Uni- versity Bushwalkers and also a past Any member of a Confederation Club will be welcome. secretary of 'The Confederation' To register, please contact the convenor, from 92-94. We wish him well and hope he is back walking very soon Andy Macqueen, at 39 Bee Farm Road Springwood 2777, phone 047-512556.

Page 7 The Bushwalker From Page 4 The naming of Singajingawel Creek Mt Solitary

Our second attempt on Mt. Cliff,” and camped in the hidden knowledge of the country available, Solitary was made on the Eight- valley at the eastern end of the so, as one who had actually been hour Week-end in October, 1930, mountain. This was a pleasant over Mt. Solitary,I was frequently when Evan’s sister. Dorothy R. camp, with more singing, and, asked for directions. Naturally, I Taylor accompanied us. when we had to return there for the always mentioned the best camp- Between these two trips second night because we could not site, in the hidden valley of “Sing- our small group of walkers, “The get down on to Korrowall Buttress, a-jingle-well,” on the best of the Wraggle-taggle Gypsies.” had scat- Dorothy decided we must name the three creeks in which one could be tered to the ends of the earth, liter- camp-site and the valley: she sug- fairly sure of finding water Mrs. ally; the Sydney Bush Walkers had gested “Sing-a-Jingle-well.” which Taylor and I certainly were not the been formed: and I had joined it we adopted. On the same day we first people to get on to Mt. Soli- and had obtained from the club a had named “Point Repulse” above tary. There were very faint signs of little songbook which contained the Buttress, but I do not think that a track up the Knife-edge in Octo- many old favorites. On the 1930 name has become generally known ber, 1927. and the first thing we trip I took this book, as Dorothy like Singajingawel . saw when we reached the top was was one of our “Wraggle- Nowadays bush walkers dash an empty sardine tin! Someone had taggle”songsters. and she sang to over Mt. Solitary and do the trip eaten sardines on a mountain that us most of the way along the old from Katoomba to Wentworth was reputed to be waterless!! tram-track such “jingles” as “Some Falls, or vice verse, in a short Folks,” “Funiculi Funicula,” etc., week-end, which seems a pity, for etc there is a surprising variety of The Actual Naming country in the three or four square Advertise here We clambered up the Knife- miles of that mountain-top, and edge, crossed the knob of Mt. many happy hours can be spent in for $40-00 Korrowall passed the big cave, pro- exploring the various small valleys. ceeded along the top of the moun- In 1930 and 1931 there were tain, saw-and named—”Squirm fewer walkers and much less

Kirra tours same as last time with phone change(9)

Page 8 The Bushwalker

The Loved to Death Syndrome Part 2 -

Our Own New Policy by John Macris Confederation's many bushwalkers and lovers of Conservation Officer wild places. The same concept As the cover article By could one day confront us in the Brian Walker in the last bushwalker support for them is assumed. The proposals Budawangs or southern Blue Bushwalker proclaimed, its time Mountains and the firmer our for us true believers to make our for Wilson's Promontory (see ar- ticle) would be described by policy, the more decisively we voice heard in the increasing could respond. number of conflicts over the use some as eco friendly, however they are clearly unacceptable to The core of the policy will be to divide natural areas into three categories: Wilderness, Parklands and modified open space. For each category, ideal walking route stand- ards would be stated eg unmarked, low key pad, cut track with occa- sional marker, or built path. Other issues to be covered include built structures, vehicle use, no go areas of high sensitivity and areas where visitor numbers require regulation. Once in draft stage the policy will be circulated to members be- fore going to a general meeting of Confederation for resolution. For more information contact Conservation Officer John Macris on the number listed under office Hinchenbrook Island National Park - Photo courtesy Webster's Multimedia bearers in this issue. of natural areas. The Conservation and Yarrawood Tracks & Access committees of Confederation have been re- Bushwalking Club cently looking over old policies Introduction to adopted in the late 1970's with a view to adopting a single new Bushwalking & Camping policy to replace these. The Are you interested in Bushwalking working title of this policy is Use of Natural Areas and it will but not sure how to get started? supersede policies on walking Yarrawood Bushwalking Club is pleased to offer an easy-paced introduc- tracks, wilderness use and huts. tory course, now in its 17th year. Stage 1 of the course will teach you all about safe and comfortable day-walking and base camping in some beauti- Why we need one ful bush areas around Sydney. Optional Stages 2 and 3 of the course Some good examples of progress to overnight backpacking and true wilderness walking. why having an adopted and up to • experienced instructors date policy is of benefit are • carefully and progressively graded walks found by looking interstate. In • learn how to walk and/or camp comfortably and safely Tasmania new quota systems and • learn about buying equipment sensibly track maintenance standards • learn how to use a map and compass properly have been introduced for walk- • meet new friends and enjoy the walks! PO Box 113 Bexley North NSW 2207 Enquires phone (02)9660-8896

Page 9 The Bushwalker Have your say on the Proposed Code of Ethics

Confederation President, Brian Walker, has re- skein of new tracks around waterlogged sections. written the draft BushwalkiCode of Ethics with exten- C Except in really rugged terrain, wear sive input from a number of other experienced walkers lighweight walking shoes or joggers with non-skid soles including Andy Macqueen and Maurice Smith. Based rather than heavy boots. on the original code which was thought to be a bit too C Become proficient at bush navigation. Don’t wordy, it will shortly be presented to a general meeting build cairns, place tags and other markers, break off liv- for consideration. ing branches or tie knots in clumps of grass to mark To ensure it truly represents the bushwalking com- your route. If you have to do any of these things, you munity’s beliefs, the draft is reproduced here for com- are lacking in bush navigation skills. ment. If you would like to suggest changes or additions, please contact Brian urgently so your suggestions can nnn be included when the draft is presented for considera- Watch your safety tion. C Know what to do in emergencies. Rescue op- You can reach Brian on 9969 8476 (phone), 9960 erations often cause serious damage so take care to 5772 (fax in business hours) or [email protected] avoid the need for rescue. (E-mail). C Acquire knowledge of First Aid so you know how to handle illness and injuries. THE BUSHWALKERS’ CODE (DRAFT) C Carry clothing and equipment to suit the worst This code is for everyone who goes walking in the possible conditions you are likely to encounter. bush. It was prepared by the Confederation of C Pack it in, pack it out Bushwalking Clubs NSW. C Don’t carry glass bottles, cans, drink-cartons Purpose lined with aluminium foil and excess packaging. If you This document defines standards of right be- simply can’t resist carrying such things, don’t leave haviour for everyone who seeks to enjoy the wild them in the bush. Remember, if you can carry a full natural landscape by travelling through it on foot. container in, it’s no trouble to carry the empty one out. C Remove all your rubbish including food Do not disturb scraps, paper, plastic, aluminium foil and empty con- If you enjoy the pleasures of bushwalking and tainers. Don’t burn or bury rubbish. Burning creates other related self-reliant outdoors activities, you have a pollution and buried rubbish will be dug up and scat- big responsibility to protect and preserve the natural tered by animals. Digging also disturbs the soil, causing landscape for the enjoyment of future generations. erosion and encouraging weeds. Your goal should always be to leave no sign of your C Carry a plastic bag for your rubbish. If you passage. This Code of Ethics lists the essentials for en- find litter left by irresponsible people along the track or joying the bush with minimal impact. around a campsite, please remove it. Show you care, even if others don’t. nnn Be self reliant Always remember— C Enjoy the natural landscape as it is, on nature’s C Aluminium foil doesn’t burn and plastics re- terms. Carry with you everything you need for your lease toxic gases when burnt. Carry them out in your comfort and safety. Leave nothing behind. pack with all your other rubbish, including food scraps. C For accommodation carry a tent or fly, or use a Don’t use your campfire as a rubbish incinerator. cave or rock overhang. Don’t use huts except when con- ditions are really bad. nnn Take care with hygiene C nnn Don’t go to the toilet within 50 metres of Tread softly campsites, streams and lakes, or in sensitive areas such C Keep walking parties small in number; four to as caves and canyons. six people is ideal. C Bury all faeces and toilet paper at least 15cm C Avoid frequently visited areas at the busiest deep. In snow, dig through the snow first, then dig a times of the year. hole in the ground. C Use existing tracks; don’t create new ones. In C Things that won’t easily decompose, such as trackless country, spread your party out; don’t walk in used tampons, sanitary pads and condoms, should be one another’s footsteps. Avoid easily damaged places carried out. such as peat bogs, cushion moss, swamps and fragile C Carry a lightweight plastic trowel to make dig- rock formations. ging easier. C Wade along submerged tracks; don’t create a

Page 10 The Bushwalker nnn Keep water pure C Don’t clear vegetation to make a campsite and ☛ Wash well back from the edge of lakes and don’t dig drains around tents for rainwater runoff. streams so waste water falls on soil where it will be ab- C If you have to remove branches or rocks, re- sorbed. place whatever you move before you leave. ☛ Don’t let soap, detergent or toothpaste get into C Leave your campsite pristine. After a few days natural water systems as they harm water life. Similarly, it should be impossible to see where you were camped. when washing cooking utensils, don’t use detergent and don’t let oils and food scraps get into streams or lakes. nnn Protect plants and animals C Always swim downstream from where you C Try not to disturb native wildlife. Remember, draw drinking water. you are the trespasser. C Be VERY careful with fire C Give snakes a wide berth and leave them C Don’t have a fire unless you are absolutely alone. They have more right to be there than you do. certain you can light it with safety. Instead of a fire, use C Watch where you put your feet. Walk around a stove for cooking and thermal clothing for warmth. delicate plants. C Fuel stoves are preferable to fires for cooking C Don’t feed birds and animals around camp- in places where even a tiny fire may cause permanent sites or they may become pests. Unnatural food is harm- damage. These include some rainforests and all alpine ful for many species. regions. C Don’t light fires in hot, summer conditions and nnn Respect Aboriginal heritage in dry windy weather. C Many places have spiritual or cultural signifi- C Don’t light fires in declared ‘fuel stove only’ cance for Aborigines. Treat such places with considera- areas and when there is a declared fire ban.. tion and respect. If you must light a campfire, follow these rules: C Obtain permission from traditional landowners C In popular campsites, light your fire on a bare or the relevant land manager to visit sensitive areas. patch left by previous fires. Don’t light it on fresh C Leave Aboriginal relics as you find them. ground. Don’t touch paintings or rock engravings. C Light your fire on bare soil or sand, well away from stumps, logs, living plants and river stones (which nnn Be courteous may explode when heated). C Man-made noise is out of place in the bush. C Definitely don’t build a ring of stones as a The sound of radios, CD players, mobile phones and fireplace. This is unnecessary and unsightly. Destroy similar devices is not in keeping with the natural envi- stone rings wherever you find them. C ronment. Leave the electronics at home. Sweep away all leaves, grass and other C Ensure your behaviour and activities don’t of- inflamable material for at least two metres around your fend others. fireplace. (Major bushfires have been caused by care- C Camp as far away from other groups as condi- less campers who didn’t take this precaution.) tions allow. Don’t use another group’s campfire without C Burn only dead wood that’s fallen to the permission. ground. Don’t break limbs from trees or shrubs. C Leave gates and slip rails as you find them. C Keep your fire small—remember, the bigger When you open a gate, make sure the last person the fool, the bigger the fire. through knows it has to be closed. Before you leave— C Respect the rights of landholders and land C Douse your fire thoroughly with water, even if managers. Don’t enter private property without permis- it appears to be already out. Don’t try to smother a fire sion. In national parks, abide by plans of management by covering it with soil or sand as the coals will con- and encourage others to do so too. tinue to smoulder for days. Only water puts a fire out When in camp— with certainty. C Do your share of collecting firewood, getting C Feel the ground under the coals. If it is too hot water and cleaning up the campsite before you leave. to touch, the fire is not out. Douse it some more. C Don’t throw rubbish on a fire where people are C Scatter the cold charcoal and ashes well clear cooking. (In fact, don’t throw rubbish on a fire at all, of your campsite then rake soil and leaves over the spot carry it out with you.) where your fire was. You should aim to remove all trace C Don’t step over other people’s uncovered of it. food. C Choose campsites carefully C Minimal Impact Bushwalking = do nothing, Think twice about using a popular campsite to leave nothing that shows where you have been. avoid overuse. When possible, find an alternative site.

Page 11 The Bushwalker Sydney YMCA A proud tradition in bushwalking L.G.(Jack) Clark Outdoors Club A Ramblers Club as a part of the Sydney YMCA was formed club and when in on in the 1920’s and operated for leave, some joined the club on its some years. It organised camping walks. Two of the Ramblers were trips and weekend walks. This killed during the War. would have made it one of the first I joined the Club in 1942 bushwalking clubs in NSW but it but for the first few years only did ceased activities after a number of occasional walks since I was do- years. A Ramblers club was active ing a part time course at the Syd- within the Melbourne YMCA and ney Technical College. Participat- the Sydney YWCA had a walking ing in its activities was a major in- camped instead of walking. Some club which was active in the terest in my life. I described of our camping weekends were 1930’s. bushwalking in those days in an ar- spent at Era, Bouddi, Nortons Ba- Credit for the formation of ticle “Bushwalking in the 1940’s”. sin and Boatharbour, near the YMCA Ramblers mostly due to Lightweight gear for Gosford. A favourite spot for Harry Black. He had been a keen bushwalkers was sold by Paddy some of us was Burragorang Val- hiker as a youth but was introduced Pallin and we found it ley. This was long before they to “real” bushwalking in 1936. He indispensible. Initially we hired flooded the valley. was friendly with Bruce Symonds some of our gear but we soon We camped one Christmas who was also a member of the saved up and purchased our own at McArthur’s Flat on the Nattai YMCA. On most week-ends they equipment. River. In those days trains ran on went away bushwalking. They Few members in those the loop line past Hilltop and walked in various areas but days had cars and we mostly trav- Aylmerton. We started at the latter mostly in the Blue Mountains. An elled to Katoomba by train for the station and returned along Star- initial attempt to interest three start of a walk. Having made a light’s Track to Hilltop, past de- other members in forming a club round trip, we returned to the same serted farm houses and over roll- was unsuccessful so they contin- station. At other times, we finished ing hills. That year, there was a ued walking as a group of two. In our walk at a nearby station such as plague of flies which were so nu- time, other members of the YMCA Blackheath, or Wentworth Falls. merous that they formed a dark joined them on walks and the club Some of the areas that we mass on the back of our ruck- slowly built up. Then in 1938, the favoured for our walks were the sacks. club was formed. Wild Dog mountains, Mt. The Federation of To join any of its clubs, a Cloudmaker, Kanangra Tops, the Bushwalking Clubs was formed in youth had first had to join the , Breakfast Creek, 1932. Soon after its formation, the YMCA itself. Some of the clubs Mount Solitary, Blue Gum Forest, Ramblers affiliated with it, and mentioned in its magazine “Youth” Kangaroo Valley via the Barren became a keen supporter of its were the Vikings Club, the YY Lands and Woodhill. We came up aims. Its members took part in (containing members of both the from either its training weekends and went on YMCA and and the YWCA), the through the Devil’s Hole or up a number of emergency searches Spartan Club (a devotional club), Taro’s Ladders at the end of Nar- organised by the Federation. the Dramatic Club and the row Neck. There was no fire trail When I dropped out of the Invincibles. Older members could along Narrow Neck in those days, Ramblers in 1949, few of the per- join the Y’s Men club. just a track that seemed intermina- sons with whom I had walked were Girls could not join the ble. At times we would stop and still active with the club. By the YMCA but joined the YWCA in- look back at Mt. Solitary and the early 1950’s membership of the stead. For the first year or two, the distant mountains. club had fallen drastically. Bruce club was entirely male. Then some A satisfying walk of two or Symonds was persuaded to take on of the members’ sisters asked to be three days was from Central the role of President with Gordon included in its activities and a “La- Burragorang Valley to Kedumba Hunter as Secretary. Under their dies Auxiliary” was formed. Creek then up the steep Kedumba combined efforts the club was soon War was declared in 1939 Pass to and on to thriving again, with a later genera- and a number of Ramblers joined Wentworth Falls. I did this walk tion of members the armed services.. They mostly with a friend a year after I joined kept in touch by writing to the the Ramblers. In the warmer months we Continued on page 15

Page 13 The Bushwalker Take a Magic carpet Ride with Balloon Aloft Picture yourself...free as a bird, floating silently No. . . Ballooning! and slowly through the air. you feel no wind because The beauty and romance of ballooning has long you have become a part of it. The world is laid out at been capturing the hearts of those who have witnessed your feet - a patchwork of colours and patterns, bathed these gentle giants drifting slowly with the breeze. Bal- in the warm glow of sunrise. You are above it all, yet loon Aloft Australia, take great pleasure in treating their you can hear the sounds of singing birds and running passengers to this unique experience. streams. Time seems to stand still as you’re suspended Everyone meets half an hour before sunrise, when between the sky and the earth. Is this Heaven? the conditions are calm and perfect for ballooning. Over a cup of tea or coffee, the pilot gives a short briefing, and then it’s off to the launch field. Passengers are Welcome to join in with ‘hands on’ and help with the inflation of the balloon. This is also a perfect time to get photographs as the balloon comes to life. Once the inflation is completed, the passen- gers hop into the basket, and are carried away with the breeze, in which ever direction it is blowing. After drifting over the countryside for approximately an hour the bal- loon lands and is met by the ground crew, who have been following be- A group of high fliers from Sydney Bush Walkers club hind in the retrieve vehicle. The balloon is packed up and everyone

Balloon Aloft is offering members of the Confederation of Bushwalking Clubs PO Box 122 Canowindra NSW 2804 Australia a special discount Telephone (063) 44-1797 Fax (063) 44-1852 Hot air balloon flights with extensive views of Mount returns back to the meeting place. A traditional cham- Canobolas, Black Rock Ridge, Needles Gap, Lake pagne toast and hearty celebration breakfast complete Wyangala, Lachlan River, Cowra, Conimbla a wonderful morning. Mountain, Mount Nangar, Belubula River, and Balloon Aloft is Australia’s largest balloon com- Canowindra pany, offering flights in six locations throughout NSW, ACT and QLD. They can also organise flights with affiliate companies in other states, making their service Australia wide. Ballooning is the perfect activ- ity to tie in with a bushwalking adventure. After view- ing the countryside you love from high above, you can complete your experience by discovering the same countryside on foot, and with so many locations to choose from, there is somewhere to suit everyone. Balloon Aloft is offering members of the Confed- eration of Bushwalking Clubs a special discount for group bookings. As Balloon Aloft is Austalia’s most experienced balloon company, you can be assured of a quality service, right through to the finest detail. For all enquiries and bookings, phone direct on 1800 028 Flying over Canowindra 568.

Page 14 The Bushwalker From page 13 Sydney Y.M.C.A. A proud tradition in bushwalking

Harry Black continued take up bushwalking. 1982 there was a major fire in bushwalking and outdoor activities In 1984 I joined the Bris- the YMCA building in Pitt over the years. In 1948 he was bane Water Outdoors Club and re- Street and the building was aban- transfered to the YMCA in Can- sumed bushwalking after a break of doned. Since facilities in the berra and organised a number of 35 years. I did more walks in building were no longer available, outdoor groups. In 1951 he 1986 than at any previous time in some of clubs active at that time founded the Canberra YMCA Ski my life. I was doing fewer walks ceased to function. However, a Club and in the early 1960’s was in 1991 and starting to find that the new club called the Sydney one of the founders of the Canberra hills were becoming steeper. I now YMCA Bushwalking Club was Bushwalking Club. He led thirteen mostly do one day walks. formed in 1993 and met in the treks in the Himalayas and in 1957 The history of most clubs Sydney YMCA. Membership in and 1960 led ANARE expeditions is that they thrive for a while under this club also dwindled and it to Antarctica. the enthusiasm of the original ceased to function. Married life imposed its members. There is usually a con- priorities on the earlier members stant change in membership as DATES FOR 1997 and few of them were available for older members drop out and 22-23 Mar: Bush survival training two day walks. However, a group newcomers join the club. If mem- weekend of married Ramblers formed a bership falls too low, the mem- 24-25 May: First Aid Course (phone Keith Maxwell, group called the “XY’s Club” con- bers may decided to disband the 96220049) sisting of some ex-Ramblers and club. Then, some years later, a new 28-29 June: The Navigation their families. They organised day club with similar aims may start Shield Rogaine 22 Aug: Annual Bush Dance walks and other activities. Ross again within the same organisa- 23-24 Aug: Annual General Webb formed a club within the tion. Meeting and Reunion YMCA called “The Hobnail Club” This was the case with the 6-7 Sep: 65th Anniversary for Blue Gum Forest - to be held at which encouraged young people to YMCA Ramblers. In October Govett’s Leap and

Outdoor life one adds of two mountain equip

Page 15 in the forest 25-26 Oct: First Aid Course The Bushwalker Blue Mountains Canyons Nomenclature and History David Noble Sydney Water Dragon Canyon - University Bushwalkers Four Dope Canyon.(SUBW) named by a Catholic Bushwalking Whungee Wheengee Canyon - also known as “Birthday Suit Club party (Martin Doyle, Peter named by an SUBW party (B Bertie Canyon” after Bob Sault’s Demspey, Mick Gorman and Phillips, A Norman, A Long (and attire (or lack of it) during part of Anthony Gwyther) that visited the others ?) - mid 80’s) who were most the canyon. (Doug Wheen: “Birth- canyon (6 Feb 83). Named likely the first party to visit all the day Suit Bertie canyon has a cer- “Waterdragon” by the party “because canyon. The canyon was so named to tain ring to it”) Named after a plan- there was a Waterdragon lizard sun- be deliberately confusing with tation discovered by the party at ning itself at the top of the abseil Wheengee Whungee Creek near “Pot Hill” - the terminus of the which had given us such a memora- Kanangra Walls. Waratah Ridge road. Bob sault ble day” (The Waysider No 178 Arthurs Canyon - named by a writes “The “Dope” in Four Dope Mar/Apr 1983). (Wrongly named as Springwood Bushwalking Club party Creek was as much to do with peo- “Crayfish” canyon by David Noble (Tom Williams, Dave Noble, Gordon ple being silly enough to go in early Wild magazine canyon Thompson, Adrian Stanborough and canyoning on a cold, rainy, un- guides. Corrected in his October 93 others), Easter 1976 on a pleasant day. Doug drove that day, “Blue Mountains Canyons” booklet Wollangambe Wilderness traverse. and was in the usual hurry to get published as an insert to Wild 50 - Named after the nearby complex pa- back to Sydney for church.” The Oct 93) goda ridge - which had been referred first party down in October 1982 Why Don’t we Do It On The to by C Cosgrove and D Noble as consisted of Bob Sault, Ian Wilson, Road - named by Tony Norman after “the Western Arthurs of the Northern Tony Norman and Doug Wheen (probable) first descent. Named after Blue Mts” (SUBW).(VS&M No 2 - 1983) a song on the Beatles “White Al- Hole in The Wall Canyon - bum”. “Norm” is a very keen Beatles named by Bob Sault and Tony Nor- Continued in another 'Bushwalker' fan. man (SUBW) after noticing the sud- Clatterteeth - first visited by a den emergence of this canyon into SBW party in 1964, leader - Ross Bungleboori Ck - north branch. Wyborn. (The Sydney Bushwalkers - the first 60 years)

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Page 18 The Bushwalker A Bushwalkers’ Bundanoon is a perennial week- end destination with a variety of Paradise- activities to get you out into that fresh country air. Why not get a Bundanoon group together and stay at the Bundanoon YHA from just Bundanoon is a $13.00pp. Breakfast and dinner bushwalkers paradise. is available from the in-house Located on Glow Worm Cafe. Tel: (048) 83 the edge of the 6010. , this quaint Found village in the Photography gear in a small Southern High- khaki pouch, found at Cedar lands boasts some Creek June 8th 1996 (sorry of the best about the delay - been OS) bushwalking in To claim, contact Glen the State. Just Horrocks Three Peaks two hours south Bushwalking Club on (02) 9869- of Sydney, 8524

1A Ross St Glenbrook 2773 Phone (047 39-3152 Email [email protected] EUROKA CAMPING Canoe AND ROCK SPORTS Steve lear Lindy Body Maps - Camping - Climbing - Clothing - Adventure Trips Web Page http://www.ozemail.au/~erock/

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