The Trailwalker Magazine of the Friends of the Issue 112 Winter 2009

AGM Report 2009 The Gammon Ranges A Dry Walk

A Weekend with The Friends Innes National Park

Tramping in New Zealand Nelson Lakes National Park Walking on Kangaroo Island

Trailwalker Winter 2009 1 PRINT POST APPROVED PP565001/00079 ALPANA STATION

5km from Blinman in the Flinders Nungawurtina Hut & Trail Ranges, Alpana Station offers: An easy 2 day walk alternative for not-so- • A passenger transport service to active walkers... Wilpena, Blinman, Heysen Trail head for walkers (individuals or groups) Stay a night or two in a new replica pine & pug shepherd’s hut en-route from Alpana • Quality self-contained accommodation to the Blinman Pools and Angorichina for up to 14 people suitable for walkers, Tourist Village to be picked up and returned artists, nature groups etc to Alpana. • Ensuite bathroom facilities for OR caravans/campers 4WDrive:- Drive yourself or be transported to Nungawurtina Hut and experience a true • Bush camping areas Flinders retreat in a scenic and serene setting. Suitable for up to 6 people.

Contact Details David and Sally Henery Postal address: PO Box 11, Blinman SA 5730 Phone or fax: 08 8648 4626 Email: [email protected] Website: www.alpana-station.netfi rms.com Bookings Essential

192 Rundle Street SA 5000 Phone 8223 5544 Fax 8223 5347 Email [email protected] Web www.soc.com.au

Suppliers of equipment for Bushwalking, Daywalking, Trekking, Travel, members receive Canoeing, Caving, Rock Climbing, 10% discount Excludes Sale Items, Canyoning and Rope Access Canoes, GPS and EPIRB’s

Stockists of the following leading brands

2 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Published by the Friends of the Heysen Trail & Other Walking Trails Contents 10 Pitt Street, Adelaide SA 5000 Phone (08) 8212 6299 Fax (08) 8212 1930 Regular Features Web www.heysentrail.asn.au Presidents’s Report Email [email protected]. 5 au 5 Depot Tree Office Report Burra Branch 6 Phone (08) 8843 8115 6 Brief News Email [email protected] 5 7 Walking Committee Report Membership Information 8 Walking SA Report Joining Fee $10 9 Burra Branch Reportt Single $20 per year Family $30 per year 9 Trail Maintenance Sections Organisations $50 per year 10 AGM Report Membership is valid from the 15 Trail Maintenance Sections date of payment until the end of the corresponding month in the 16 2008 Walk Programme following year. 12 25 Discounts Available to Members Trailwalker Magazine Views expressed in contributed articles are those of the authors, and not necessarily those of the Friends of the Heysen Trail. 12 A Weekend with The Friends 12 Innes National Park The Trailwalker magazine is available by subscription or online at www.heysentrail.asn.au/trailwalker

The Trailwalker magazine is published quarterly: • Autumn (March) 18 Tramping In New Zealand • Winter (June) Nelson Lakes National Park • Spring (September) 18 • Summer (December)

The Trailwalker magazine has a distribution of 1200, and an estimated readership of approximately twice 21 Walking On Kangaroo Island that number.

Articles, reports and other submissions by members and other interested parties are welcome and should be 22 The Gammon Ranges emailed to the Trailwalker Editor at 21 A Dry Walk [email protected]

The submission deadline is usually the first Friday of the month prior to the month of publication.

Advertising Rates 26 End to End 3 and End to End 4

1/8 page vertical $40 per issue 1/4 page horizontal $60 per issue 1 22 /4 page vertical $60 per issue 1/3 page vertical $70 per issue 1/2 page $100 per issue Full Page $150 per issue 27 Promotion Works Flyer (supplied for insertion) $180 per issue

A commitment for 12 months advertising, 30 Loop Walk ie 4 issues, would attract 10% saving Aldgate - Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens - Bridgewater Advertising specifications and 30 article submission guidelines are available upon request or by visiting www.heysentrail.asn.au/trailwalker

Trailwalker Winter 2009 3 About the Friends

Patron Honorary Members C. Warren Bonython AO Terry Lavender* Jim Crinion Council Members 2009/2010 Council Meeting Dates Neville Southgate Robert Alcock 17th June Doug Leane* Gavin Campbell 15th July Fred Brooks Simon Cameron 19th August Sadie Leupold Jeanette Clarke 16th September Thelma Anderson Dana Florea Kath Palyga Jerry Foster Richard Schmitz Bob Gentle Arthur Smith Nick Langsford Colin Edwards Julian Monfries Hugh Greenhill Chris Porter Jamie Shephard David Rattray Glen Dow Cliff Walsh Barry Finn John Wilson Dean Killmier Peter Wynen John Wilson David Beaton Jack Marcelis Council Committee Chairmen Julian Monfries President Simon Cameron * (deceased) Vice President Robert Alcock Treasurer John Wilson Trailwalker Editor Secretary Peter Wynen Hilary Gillette Finance & Audit Cliff Walsh Membership Secretary Maintenance John Wilson David Rattray Walking Arrienne Wynen Office David Rattray Office Coordinator Marketing & Membership Robert Alcock Jack Marcelis Honorary Membership Bob Randall Maintenance Coordinator Burra Branch Chairmen Gavin Campbell President Arthur Simpson Vice President Kate Greenhill Bookkeepers Secretary Sally Fieldhouse Wen Gu Maintenance Hugh Greenhill Xun Wang (Michael) Goyder Tourism Working Party Rep Hugh Greenhill Jeanette Clarke Jie Fang Zhang (Carol)

Shop/Office Hours & Volunteers

Monday 10.30 - 2.30 Wednesday 10.30 - 2.30 Friday 10.30 - 4.30 Mike Parsons, Beverley Blanch, Jack Marcelis, Wendy Fox, Sandy Melbourne, Colin Edwards, Robyn Quinn, David Beaton, Gilbert Downs, Allan Wadham Jamie Shephard Elizabeth Rogers Thursday 10.30 - 2.30 Saturday & Sunday Closed Tuesday 10.30 - 2.30 Chris Casper, Chris Hanna, Relief Staff David Rattray, Dawn Bon, Jim Alvey Jim Alvey, David Beaton, Jack Chris Porter Marcelis

4 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Report President’s Report

Simon Cameron The start of the walk season always seems to ramp up the activity levels, particularly in the office with the End to End bookings.

It is always gratifying to see growing interest and enthusiasm Front Cover to walk the trail, and this is reflected in the large number of walkers registering for the start of End to End 4. Nearly 200 The Depot Tree walkers have embarked on the challenge, and it is a true Gammon Ranges Walk challenge of will and fitness to navigate the entire length of this iconic trail. As many of you know it is a marvellous journey through SA’s prettiest landscapes, and a journey that forges special friendships. It is also a true challenge for the volunteer organisers, office workers and walk leaders and a good deal of forbearance helps deal with the mammoth task. And it is an important task. The more walkers along the Heysen Trail we have the more the trail becomes visible in local communities. Social, historical, and political visibility will enhance the iconic status of the Heysen Trail, and that is what the Friends of the Heysen Trail are here to serve. At our AGM I was pleased to report growing membership and growing volunteer activity. Our maintenance group has provided nearly 2500 maintenance hours in 2008, which is an amazing achievement. A prototype water tank has been approved by DEH, and built and the provision of up to 10 tanks looks to be within our means. This will go a long way to providing water supplies at suitable distances along the trail. Strategic planning by DEH for the Northern Flinders is still proceeding and the Council has formed a view that it can enhance the walk amenity and safety of the trail in this area The tree that cared for our without major re-routing. This will be an area of ongoing extra water supplies. interest and we will keep you informed. Photo by Russell O’Brien Meanwhile the most important work of the Friends goes See full story on page 22 on – maintaining and developing the trail. I will keep asking for volunteers to form and develop a “Greening Committee” because I think it is an area where we could provide so much. See you on the trail!

Trailwalker Winter 2009 5 Regular Reports Office Report Brief News

* Great Ocean Walk By Jack Marcelis We wish to advise that the Great Office Coordinator Ocean Walk in November is now fully booked with 16 people on the waiting list.

* The June long weekend Hello all, at Collinsville is now also fully The Caravan and Camping show and booked.

The Caravan and Camping Show the unstinting efforts of the Marketing we participated in earlier this year * The Walk Committee is was a great success. We handed out & Membership Committee under the planning more weekends away in some hundreds of brochures, leaflets chairmanship of Robert Alcock led to 2009. Currently we are looking at and gave answers to a great many an unprecedented 89 new member possible venues including Kangaroo Island. questions about walking, bushwalk- applications this quarter. However ing, and “our” Heysen Trail in par- welcome this is, it added only further ticular. * Sea to Summit Walk pressures to our overloaded staff. All The Friends recently undertook a Many curly questions such as “do of this naturally coinciding with recce of the Sea to Summit walk in you still walk when it rains” and various key members going/being on preparation for the Sunday walk in August. This recce took 8 hours “what if I need to use the bathroom?” leave. But also “what level of fitness is re- of steady walking by a fit group. quired, how do I get there, do I have Potential Sea to Summit participants to walk in those big boots?” etc. Again I am asking our members need to have above average fitness to volunteer some of your time to complete the whole walk on the Our indoor stall most certainly was a in our office. day. However there is an option to vast improvement on last year when complete the Sea to Summit in two we had a tent stall in which we were walks on two Sundays. Ideally this volunteer would be “quietly cooking” in 42oC heat facing See the walk program. west. available 1 day a week, could answer emails, create simple forms, and I would like to thank all participating would be computer literate. The staff and Gilbert Downs, our “site person needs to be accurate and manager” for the show. precise and used to following office To say the walking season procedures. You may be required to has started with enthusiasm is handle money, use the EFTPOS an understatement. machine and cash register, and lastly you need to be friendly, but The walk bookings speak for themselves; 80 on this year’s first businesslike on the phone. In other End2End 3; 44 on the first section of words I am looking for secretaries/ the ; 200 on the new school office staff or such persons End2End 4 starting at . who are used to this type of work. Would you need to know about These large numbers are creating a real shock in the office. Introducing bushwalking? Not really, your office our new, untried, automatic booking experience is required. If you have system, brilliantly written by Jeremy never handled an EFTPOS machine or Carter, was not such a clever idea a cash register, don’t worry; we will however at this very busy stage. teach you. I will be happy to show Our staff, most of whom are “ma- ture” take a little extra time when you around our office and discuss confronted with new systems. this in private if you wish. Next Issue Deadline Submissions for the Spring edition of the Trailwalker will close on 7th August 2009.

6 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Regular Reports Walking Committee

By Arrienne Wynen Walking Committee Chairperson

The 2009 walking season has started well with a very successful weekend at the Innes National Park (see page 12) and the start of another group doing the Heysen Trail from Cape Jervois. We have held our annual training day for new and experienced walk leaders and everything is in place for a busy and varied walking program. Walking is a great winter past time and remember, the weather might seem miserable at home but often where the walk is being held conditions are much better.

Both the Burra Weekend and the Great Ocean Walk are fully booked but a small reserve list is kept. It is important to book early for walks as there can be a limit on the number that a walk leader is able to take.

The committee is working on the program for 2010 so if you have any suggestions for weekends or specific walks that you would like to see included, now is the time to tell any of the walk committee or drop a line to the office and they will pass the information on.

New Members The President and the Council would like to extend a warm welcome to the following new members for this term (being 89 in number) , who have joined the Friends since the last edition of the Trailwalker, and urge them to become involved in the voluntary, walking and social aspects of the Association.

Veronica Eaton Pamela Morutto David Knowler Kym Edwards Margaret Schmidke Glynis Varvounis Ross & Helen Portolesi Susan Nathan Anne Kane John King Carola Sanders David & Lynette Jones Sharyn Ridgewell Sue Quinn Peter Crabb Georgina Patoir Robert Smedley J.K Mayotte Helen Stephens Heather & Jon Holmes-Ross Jane Walkley Lari McDonalds Martin Frayne Brian & Angela Caton Giles Walkley Bronwyn Little Ola Hansson David Webber Jenny Simcock Elley Parry Jonathon Jaensch Oleh Truss Steve & Margaret Clift John Bojczuk Liz Watson & Chris Kelly Elizabeth Cooper Annie Michelmore Maria Markogiannis Michelle Coram Jill Franklin Caroline Prescott Shirley Deveraux Anne Marie Gibb Barbara Walters Ian Davidson Helena Sweeney Wendy & Byon Gordon Shirley Stanfield John & Anne Gibson Gary & Sally Fieldhouse Barry Brown Maggie Moy Keiko Aboutaleb Graham Dunstan Garry Pearce David Sando Lee Ralph Andrea Burnett Stephen & Deb Furber Judith Smith Deanna Clark Lorraine Poole Daryl & Debra Fox Andre Carracher Debbie & Mark Hardy John Skipworth Jason Young Cara Turner Dianne Colleran Paul Arnold James Wenzel Rebecca Denichilo Anne Way John Hillard Simon Hynes Cathy Foster David Brompton Danielle Hinora

Trailwalker Winter 2009 7 Regular Reports The Walking Federation of , Inc. Walking SA

By Thelma Anderson Walking Access Committee

Official Opening of the 2009 announced the imminent Draft Walking Season commencement of the Trail in Management Plan This important annual event was order to prevent the escalation Similar concerns have been celebrated at Murray Recreation of its cost. In addition the Horse- expressed by visitors to Belair Park at Eden Valley in the heart riders’ Association has publicly Park regarding the proposed loss of the Lavender Federation Trail sought inclusion for use of the of the walking trail from Sequoia in the . It was initial section of the “multi-use” Valley to Saddlebags Road to particularly well attended both by recreational trail that will eventually view the various species of native the local community and various extend to Mount Pleasant using the orchids that occur in this location. member clubs providing an former rail corridor. It is understood that construction excellent response to the guided of a mountain bike park is walks organised by members “Off-leash”areas for dogs proposed for this area that would of the Lavender Federation Trail proposed in Bridgewater area of course devastate the walking and A.R.P.A. Bushwalking Club. Council continues trail, the rare and endangered The local community groups to debate the issue of providing orchids and all else in its wake, provided an excellent assortment areas near Bridgewater to enable including impact on the sequoias, of luncheon delicacies and various residents to exercise their dogs planted as a memorial. The Draft outdoor stores took advantage “off-leash”. The Heysen Trail has Plan has not yet been released of the large crowd to display been referred to in discussions for public consultation but all their wares for sale; and a festive relating to the problem and the environmentalists should take the atmosphere was created by the safety of walkers must surely opportunity to express their views Celtic Band with some walkers be relevant to councillors’ at that time in an effort to retain displaying their dancing prowess as deliberations and ultimate decision. one of our priceless natural assets. part of the entertainment. It is understood that concerns have been held by residents living in the Proposed closure of link to the Drivers Road Trail area adjacent to Woorabinda Park Lavender Federation Trail Work is scheduled to commence regarding “off leash” dogs and the All walkers are indebted to a on this walking trail under the risk they could pose to the native developer who took steps to auspices of Adelaide Hills Council bird-life. Dogs must also be seen evaluate a request by a landowner in supervising a Green Corps team as a distinct threat to the abundant to purchase an adjoining road in the clearance of weed species native wildlife known to exist at reserve following the sub-division primarily along undeveloped road Woorabinda Park and the adjacent of a large property adjacent reserves in the Piccadilly district to Hender Reserve. to the Lavender Federation connect the Trail to Trail at Harrogate. Following Botanic Garden and to the Heysen National Park exhaustive enquiries of all walking Trail at Woodhouse. Experience Draft Management Plan connections, starting with the will be gained by the young Green Walking SA is indebted to Walking Walking Trails Support Group, Corps team with supervision Trails Support Group for alerting us the developer concluded that the and training by Adelaide Hills to the availability of this document proposal was inappropriate for the Council staff in various aspects for comment by peak bodies. An location and recommended that the of recreational trail building. It is obscure method of distribution landowner not proceed with an expected that leaflets describing of this Plan ensured that Walking application to buy the road reserve. the walk, prepared by Walking SA, SA, as the peak body for walking The walking community generally will be available from various Hills in South Australia, did not receive can feel a strong sense of gratitude outlets. a copy until a specific request to this developer. was made allowing only minimal Onkaparinga Council - The Walking Recreational Rail Trail from opportunity to respond to the Access Committee continues to Oakbank to Woodside proposed closure of some of the meet with staff at Noarlunga for This trail was referred to in the walking trails currently used by discussion and resolution of items previous issue of “Trailwalker” and walking clubs affiliated with this of mutual interest. a more recent public reference organisation.

8 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Burra Reports

Peregrine Travel Centre, Adelaide Burra Branch Your local contact for walking and trekking holidays worldwide. By Hugh Greenhill Chairman EUROPE MT BLANC TREK , a stunning 8 or 14 The Burra Branch held it’s AGM on the 22nd day trek around the Mt Blanc massif March 2009 with 24 people attending and 11 apologies Regular departures June to Sept 2010 accepted. This was the most successful attendance we have had for long time and hopefully will carry on to the coming walking season. WALKING IN FRANCE , Burgundy and the Rhone Valley, walk through beauti- The elected Officers for 2009 are as follows: ful villages, glorious scenery and sample the President: Arthur Simpson. Vice President: Kate world finest wines. Greenhill. Secretary: Sally Fieldhouse. Section Leader: Hugh Greenhill. Publicity Officer: Jenny Reid, Assisting: Special group departure May 2010 Jennie Abbott. FLAVOURS OF ITALY & FRANCE Planned walks for this year after much discussion by all This fully escorted tour from Adelaide has attending resulted in the following 9 walks and weekend away. limited spaces available. Departing Adelaide 19 Sept 2009 1st Walk on the 9th May, a Full Moon walk on the Riesling Trail. 2nd Walk on the 17th May, Tothill Gap to AFRICA Huppatz Hut. KILIMANJARO CLIMB 3rd Walk on the 2nd June, following part of Dust Trek to the highest point in Africa's through Hole Creek to Newikie Creek. lush rainforest, alpine meadow and sensational 4th Walk on the 20th June Burra Gorge to Burra. views. Join us on a special Adelaide 5th Walk on the 12th July Paradise (Caroona group departure in July 2010 Creek Conservation Park). 6th Walk on the 4th August Stone Chimney Also walking and trekking holidays to Creek (Red Banks Conservation Park) NEPAL, NEW ZEALAND and 7th Walk on the 22nd Sept, Mt Bryan. SOUTH AMERICA on the 11th Oct, Tothill Range. 8th Walk 9th Walk on the 31st Oct, Burra Gorge to Princess Royal. 10th Walk on the 14th Nov, Spring Gully / Break up.

Camp out this year will be at Braemar Station, north east of Burra on the 29th and 30th of August. Anyone wishing to come and join us on a walk you are quite welcome. You can contact me, phone 88438115 for details of the planned walks. The rain in our area was very good Contact Skye or Geoff, rainfalls recorded and makes the start of the walking Peregrine Travel Centre season very pleasant. 08 8223 5905 [email protected] or geoff@peregrinetravel.com.au 192 Rundle Street, Adelaide SA 5000

Trailwalker Winter 2009 9 AGM Report Reports from the 22nd ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

By Peter Wynen Secretary

The 2009 AGM was held on the Trail, we need to be aware that Committee, Terry and Francis 27th March 2009 at Woodville there is also an amount of about Glasson were bestowed with Bowling Club. $9,000 that we spent which has honorary membership in been reimbursed to us by DEH. recognition of their contributions DEH have spent about $400,000 to the Friends in particular, Terry We had 61 members in attendance (unchanged from 2007) on the with his involvement through the and a few observers/potential trail. Walking Committee and Francis members who had been made with her involvement in the Office. aware of it. After welcoming our Maintenance Coordinator Gavin Patron Warren Bonython and Campbell spoke of the efforts of A number of constitutional changes his wife Bunty, President Simon Doug Leane who passed away recommended by Council were put Cameron spoke on the vast during the year. We also lost the to the meeting and accepted. The extent of volunteering that occurs maintenance services of David purposes of these changes were to: throughout our organisation. He Beaton and Ralph Ollerenshaw - define the payment that an then went on to highlight the during the year. Their sections individual can make for Life achievements of 2008 and the have been taken over by Tim James membership (10 times the planned projects for 2009 and and Roger Dunne. Colin Edwards annual subscription rate) in beyond. (refer to his report on will be assisting Graham O’Reilly Rule 5, page 5). with his section. Many thanks to - allow for the operation of all Section Leaders and volunteer payments using modern John Wilson presented his report workers for the job they do, practises (eg internet of another successful year’s continuing to provide tireless and banking) in Rule 19, operations with a profit for 2008 loving care for the trail. - restrict the distribution of of $11,900. Profit from Sales the Association’s assets in increased from $4,900 to $10,400 Following the Treasurer’s report the event of winding up or mainly due to the sales of a lot of and the maintenance report the dissolution to bodies with maps from the shop ($7,000) and election of officers took place. similar objectives to ours in Push the Bush ($4,500 wholesale). Simon Cameron continues in the Rule 22, and A magnificent effort by Manuela role of President, Robert Alcock - alter references in the Vida in moving these. We still have continues as Vice-President, John Appendix from Branch about 1,100 in stock. Our profits Wilson continues as Treasurer Chairman and Branch from walking activities were down and Peter Wynen continues as Vice-Chairman to Branch a little due mainly to the increased Secretary. President and Branch Vice- costs of buses for E2E walks. Of Continuing as Council members President. our expenditures, the biggest were Jerry Foster, Julian Monfries item was for the Office which and David Rattray. Following the formal part of the underwent a major refurbishment Renominating Council members meeting, Simon introduced our during the year. The costs for were Gavin Campbell, Dana Florea Guest Speaker: John Shepherd producing the Trailwalker magazine and Cliff Walsh. (Operation Flinders) who gave is also up on last year — this is New Council members were Bob a history and explanation of the mainly a reflection of the fact that Gentle and Jeanette Clarke. organisation, which seeks to give more are being printed. We have “challenged” adolescents (either assets of about $112,000. (Since the AGM, Nick Langsford young offenders who have been and Chris Porter have been before the courts or youths who Our annual profit will allow us to appointed to Council). have problems dealing with school install 1-2 water tanks/shelters per Retiring from Council were Jim or their home environment) year. We have sufficient assets to Alvey and David Beaton. an opportunity to “discover buy more if we choose to. While themselves”. we have spent about $1,300 of Following a recommendation our own money on maintaining from the Honorary Membership

10 Trailwalker Winter 2009 What’s What

What’s What? A column with info on equipment and walking

What’s better for walking? A “Soft Shell” jacket or a combination of fleece and a rain jacket.

We have all seen in the last few years the proliferation of the Soft Shell garment. “Soft Shell” is a term that loosely describes a type of garment that has been developed to be both windproof (or wind resistant) and has a form of fleece or insulation on the inside for warmth. The soft shell category started in the United States and Europe and was originally developed by WL Gore & Associates the makers of Goretex. It was developed for conditions that were cold, dry and windy. Traditional wool and fleece garments were not very windproof and you would therefore lose a lot of heat in any windy conditions. Unfortunately, what started out as a clearly defined category has now become quite confusing. Some manufacturers of windproof / waterproof shell garments are making the outer fabric or shell 100% waterproof and this does make the garment less breathable. While other manufacturers are making the garment more breathable but only shower proof. This leads to confusion when people are buying soft shells. They may well ask ... Is it waterproof? Well yes. So I do not need a rain jacket? Well yes you will still need to have a rain jacket. Why? Because a soft shell jacket does not normally have a hood, and is not seam sealed to provide full protection in very wet and windy conditions. So in summary; The soft shell jacket can be better than a fleece jacket in that it is more wind & water resistant and therefore has better warmth to weight ratio. It is perfect for the snow country, high altitude trekking, and walks in windy places when not expecting a lot of rain. But if you are heading somewhere wet and cold like New Zealand or Tasmania, you may be better off with a fully waterproof jacket that will keep the elements at bay, plus a jacket to keep you warm. I would recommend a traditional Goretex rain jacket and a Polar Fleece jacket combination. Just remember, it is hard to have one piece of clothing that can do it all.

David Nicolson Paddy Pallin Adelaide

Taralee Orchards

Self contained accommodation in the Wirrabara Forest, Southern Flinders Ranges Adjacent to the Heysen Trail Close to the Mawson Trail Can accommodate up to 8 people Paul & Denise Kretschmer Ph 08 8668 4343 Email [email protected] Web www.taralee.com.au

Trailwalker Winter 2009 11 Innes National Park Innes National Park long weekend 7th to 9th March

A Weekend with “The Friends”

By Julie and Peter Moore

After rushing to leave work early and trying to miss the long weekend traffic we joined the Main North Road queue and made surprisingly good time to Pt Wakefield. Once we turned off and made our way down the Peninsular we made very good time.

After an evening meal at the Marion who really didn’t have all that much our half way stop. Here we bade Bay Tavern (very worthwhile) we to show for their efforts. Walking farewell to those who wanted to made the remaining 6 km to join the was definitely leave and 9 of us rest of our fellow hikers (22 in all) a better past continued on along at Stenhouse Bay. Accommodation time. Plenty This part of the walk Browns Beach to was dormitory style, with 5 separate of secluded Gym Beach. Soft sleeping areas — pot luck if you was predominantly cliff bays and coves, top and rocky beaches sand. For those were in with snorers or not. We lunch was at of you who have were lucky but I recommend ear one of those, interspersed with walked Tungkillo plugs regardless. Shell Beach. secluded, sheltered bays beach at Deep Creek After lunch and rock pools, perfect you will understand. Next day we were awoken at 7.00 it became for a cooling dip on a Although everyone am to the gentle melodies of a a bit more hot day .... was grateful to arrive wailing bagpipe courtesy of our challenging at Gym Beach the intrepid walk leader Simon. Self by including walk once again help breakfast with decent coffee, high, soft, sand hills which we had was just spectacularly beautiful. make your own lunches and then to cover to reach Browns Beach The return trip, once we found the car pooling to Pondalowie Bay for the first day’s walk. The weekend walks were in two parts with an option for people to leave a walk at the half way mark. Half way mark today was Browns Beach, with the full day’s walk doing an extra 9 km loop from Browns Beach to Gym Beach and back, all up about 22 km. Predominately a beach and cliff top walk we took in magnificent coastal views, walked past a pod of dolphins who were literally 10 metres from us, saw surfers although the famed Pondalowie surf was relatively flat and plenty of fishermen

12 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Innes National Park

right trail, was inland back to Browns pools, perfect for a cooling dip on a up the hall and dormitories, we Beach. This time it was a mallee bush hot day - but not today. Lunch was followed the Thomson-Pfitzner plaster setting, a really pleasing vista and at the Hillocks store where Golden trail to the old Inneston township. The physical contrast to the coastal walk North Giant Twins were the order of trail follows the original wooden rail just completed. the day. Once again the group parted line used to haul gypsum mined at company with 12 continuing on. Inneston to the jetty at Stenhouse Bay. That night was a hearty curry meal This leg included a small section of After a brief stop at Inneston and some with just the right amount of amber paddocks followed by a mandatory time to explore the ruins before we fluid to accompany it. break to pick out all the grass seeds made our way towards the cars left at accumulated in our boots and socks. Cape Spencer. A very comfortable 8 For the weekend everyone was Someone (it could have been Simon) km walk through bush land finishing at encouraged to dress at night to the two unkindly likened the scene to a the Cape Spencer lighthouse with its themes, surf for Saturday and pirates group of monkeys picking out ticks contrasting coastal views. Magnificent! for Sunday. For entertainment tonight, whilst grooming each other. This was That was the official end of the Simon took us through some basic followed by more beach, sand hills and weekend although most reconvened dance moves of the surfing era and it cliff tops through some spectacular, for lunch back at the Stenhouse Bay would be fair to say that as dancers we rough, isolated yet beautiful coastline. Hall before leaving for the easy drive made very good hikers. After dancing Total disance walked today was 18km, back home. lessons and practice it was time for relatively easy. surfing charades where surfing phrases To summarise, many had not been such as rash vest, grommet, wipe out Tonight was a BBQ and pirates night. to Innes before and for the few that etc were mimed out to hilarious effect. Most dressed accordingly with George had, it was a long time ago. Without in his 1930’s one peace woollen exception, all were impressed by the The first day is always the longest swimming costume and Simon in natural beauty and the abundance walk so Sunday we had a sleep in his Peter Pan outfit winning the best and breadth of fauna and flora till 7.30 when once again the wail of dressed. Entertainment that night was the park offered. The walks were those bloody bagpipes! Today was courtesy of a blow up “Pirate” beach varied, provided options for different car pooling to Foul Bay our starting ball with which we played a version levels of fitness and were through point, mid way was Hillocks and the of “poison ball”. Two throwers stood unquestionably beautiful scenery. The end point several km closer to Marion at opposite ends of the hall throwing Innes National Park is a real gem and Bay. Apparently we walk at Innes this the ball at people in the middle. If you within such easy access from Adelaide. time of year because the weather is were hit between knees and shoulder, Our thanks go to Simon and Arrienne relatively calm. Well with the wind that you were out. Talk about simple things who organized the weekend and made was howling today, seeing this coast amusing simple minds! It was great it the success it was. at its worst would be very interesting fun. A much less energetic but equally - no wonder there were so many ship enthusiastic darts championship If you haven’t been away for a wrecks in the early years. This part of followed. weekend with the Friends we can the walk was predominately cliff top certainly recommend it! and rocky beaches interspersed with Monday’s walk was optional although secluded, sheltered bays and rock everyone did participate. After cleaning

Trailwalker Winter 2009 13 Water Tanks Report

Tanks for the Memory By Julian Monfries

Old tanks never die they just lie around collecting water, or at least that’s what we hope.

And so it happened to an old tank Donated funds from the End to that the Friends salvaged from the End 3 group paid for the materials feet of Mount Arden, the original to construct the stand and shelter. Huncken Tank, named after a A very worthy addition to the Trail member who died and left the infrastructure. Friends a bequest. But wait there’s more..... Contaminated with dead bees, it DEH revealed the new modular was replaced in December 2007 tank/shelter design, at Black Hill, (with a tank donated by Bunnings). last month. The long awaited tank/ The old tank was steam cleaned shelter was viewed by Simon and rejuvenated, and languished Cameron, the Friends’ President, at the Cobblers Creek shed until a and other interested members, clean out of the old shed deemed along with Bronte Leake, Trails it needed a new home. Eyre Depot Officer from DEH, and the designer. became the chosen site. As you can see from the picture it is an all steel design with wings. With alacrity, the tank, with a newly Much discussion took place about designed stand, was taken to Eyre the collection panel size and various Depot over Easter. It was installed other concerns; however the basic The tank with the help of John Potter, David design achieved general approval. Curtiss, Bob Gentle and some elbow grease. Once design and cost are finalised, Andrew Smart, owner of Wilkatana the Friends plan to purchase Talyala Hills Station, assisted by agreeing to a number of these tanks to be the construction on his land, and strategically located along the Trail Accommodation ~ Laura hopefully the clouds have since also increasing the water points available Talyala Hills Farmstay at assisted with a few millimetres of for walkers. Laura in the beautiful rain on the collecting panels. GPS location 776E - 297N Southern Flinders Ranges

Now includes 2 new bedrooms - 5 in total Good bathrooms - wheelchair friendly Marked bushland walks on property Bed and Breakfast or Standard Packages available From $80 ph/fax 8663 2576 email [email protected]

“a little bit of Australia all to yourself ” Bob Gentle, Dave Curtiss and John Potter - A job well done!

14 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Trail Maintenance Trail Maintenance Sections

The Heysen Trail is graciously maintenance by volunteers. If you discover a problem on the Heysen Trail, please contact the Friends of the Heysen Trail office, or the Maintenance Co-ordinator or relevant Maintenance Section Leader listed. We welcome feedback on the condition of the Heysen Trail, constructive suggestions on improvements that could be made, and general comments or enquiries about the Trail.

Maintenance Co-ordinators Gavin Campbell 8296 8613 (H) Maintenance Committee Chairman John Wilson 8356 9264 (H)

Section Map Section Leader Contact 1. Cape Jervis to Tapanappa Southern Guidebook, Tim James & Friends 8556 7015 (H) Maps 1.1-1.3 2A. Tapanappa to Waitpinga Campground Southern Guidebook, Roger Dunn & Friends 8260 2146 (H) Maps 1.3-1.5 2B. Waitpinga Campground to Back Valley Rd Southern Guidebook, Geoffrey & Pamela Gardner 8552 5213 (H) Maps 1.5-2.2 3. Back Valley Road to Moon Hill Southern Guidebook, Michael Scott 0400 293 132 Maps 3 2.2-2.3 David Evans 8554 3551 (H) 4. Moon Hill to Hindmarsh Tiers Road Southern Guidebook, Hermann Schmidt 8344 4072 (H) Maps 2.3-2.5 (Wandergruppe Bushwalkers, German Association) 5. Hindmarsh Tiers Road to Blackfellows Southern Guidebook, Adrienne Fortanier 8556 5051 (H) Creek Road Maps 2.5-2.7 Eleanor Martin 8341 6024 (H) (Women in the Bush) 6. Blackfellows Creek Road to Glen Bold Southern Guidebook, Richard Webb 8381 5308 (H) Maps 2.7-3.2 7. Glen Bold to Piccadilly Southern Guidebook, Thelma Anderson 8278 4420 (H) Maps 3.2-3.4 Trevor Lee 8398 0516 (H) 8. Piccadilly to Norton Summit Southern Guidebook, Liz O’Shea 8352 1636 (H) Maps 3.4-3.4 (WEA Ramblers) 9. Norton Summit to Southern Guidebook, Colin Edwards 8264 1492 (H) Maps 3.5-3.7 Graham O’Reilly 8397 1217 (H) 10. Cudlee Creek to Bethany Southern Guidebook, Dave Curtiss 8264 0793 (H) Maps 3.7-4.4 John Potter 8337 9515 (H) 11. Bethany to Hamilton Southern Guidebook, John Potter 8337 9515 (H) Maps 4.4-5.3 Dave Curtiss 8264 0793 (H) Joyce Heinjus 8525 2054 (H) 12. Hamilton to Huppatz Hut Southern Guidebook, Norrie Hamilton 8332 1982 (H) Maps 5.3-5.9 13. Huppatz Hut to Spalding Southern Guidebook, Hugh Greenhill 8843 8115 (H) Maps 5.9-6.12 (Burra Branch) 14. Spalding to Georgetown Norhern Guidebook, Kevin Liddiard 8289 4236 (H) Maps 1.1-1.6 15. Georgetown to Mt Remarkable Northern Guidebook, Mary Cameron 8165 1025 (H) Maps 1.6-2.11 Ian Pool (ARPA) 16. Mt Remarkable to Horrocks Pass Rd Northern Guidebook, Graham Hill 8632 4804 (H) Maps 2.11-3.4 17A. Horrocks Pass Rd to Dutchmans Stern Northern Guidebook, Ian Hartley 8641 1435 (H) Maps 3.4-4.1 Michael Kerin 8642 4728 (H) 17B. Dutchmans Stern to Wilpena Northern Guidebook, Gavin & Marie Campbell 8296 8613 (H) Maps 4.2-5.7 18. Wilpena to Parachilna Northern Guidebook, David Henery 8648 4626 (H) Maps 5.8-6.8 (Alpana Station)

Trailwalker Winter 2009 15 2009 Walk Season Programme

April May June July August September October November

Sun May 3 Sun Jul 5 Sun Aug 2 Sun Sept 6 Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Morialta Stirling Kersbrook Mt Pleasant

Trail Sat June 6- Sun April 5 Starter Lyn Wood Mon June 8 Liz Barry Mike Parsons Graham Parham Opening of Trip Away Walking Season Sat May 2- Collinsville Sat July 4- Sat Aug 1- Sat Sept 5- Sat Oct 3- Sat Oct 31- Eden Valley Sun May 3 Station, Burra Sun July 5 Sun Aug 2 Sun Sept 6 Mon Oct 5 Sun Nov 1

End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 Father’s Day End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 of month 1st Week

Trail Peters Hill to Worlds End to Wandallah to Summit Rd to EE George Rd to Curnow’s Hut to Walker June Long Weekend Webb Gap Rd Wandallah Summit Rd EE George Rd Weekend Long October Curnows Hut Lock Ruin

Sun May 10 Sun June 14 Sun Jul 12 Sun Aug 9 Sun Sept 13 Sun Oct 11 Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Scott Creek Blackhill Ansteys Hill Warren Con Pk Sea to Summit Cox’s Scrub Trail

Starter Bob Gentle A Wynen Robert Alcock Robyn Quinn Part 2 of 2 Bob Gentle Dot Farmer

Sat June 13-

Easter Sun May 10 Sun Jul 12 Sun Aug 9 Sun Sept 13 Sun Oct 11 Sun June 14 Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker End-to-End 3 Mother’s Day of month

2nd Week Montacute Peters Hill Kaiserstuhl Deep Creek Para Wirra Sat Nov 7- Trail Webb Gap Rd Walker Richard Milosh to Worlds End Colin Edwards Ray Blight Ray Blight John Potter Sun Nov 15 Sun April 19 Sun May 17 Sun June 21 Sun Jul 19 Sun Aug 16 Sun Sept 20 Sun Oct 18 Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Great Ocean Walk Yurrebilla Trail Yurrebilla Trail Onkaparinga Mt George Chambers Gully Newland Head Athelstone Trail Rhonda Dempster/ Rhonda Dempster/ Starter Robyn Quinn Chris Porter Nic Waite Robyn Quinn Mary Cartland Lyn Woods Lyn Woods Sun June 21 Sun Jul 19 Sun April 19 Sun May 17 Sun Aug 16 Sun Sept 20 Sun Oct 18 Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Yurrebilla Trail Yurrebilla Trail of month 3rd Week Mount Compass Onkaparinga Mount Crawford Belair Waitpinga Trail Rhonda Dempster/ Rhonda Dempster/ Walker Richard Milosh Steve Wilkinson John Potter Michelle Foster Steve Wilkinson Lyn Woods Lyn Woods

Sun May 24 Sun June 28 Sun Jul 26 Sun Aug 23 Sun Sept 27 Sun Oct 25 Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Horsnell Gully Belair Wistow Aldgate Mt Lofty/Cleland Anstey’s Hill Trail

Starter Arrienne Wynen Raelene Shaw Sandy Melbourne Gavin Campbell Colin Edwards Graham Parham

Sun April 26 Sun May Sun June 28 Sun Jul 26 Sun Aug 23 Sun Sept 27 Sun Oct 25 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 of month 4th Week Cape Jervis to Cobblers Hill to Tapanappa to Balquhidder to Waitpinga to Tugwell Rd to Inman Valley to Trail

Walker Cobblers Hill Tapanappa Balquhidder Waitpinga Tugwell Road Inman Valley Myponga Anzac Day Long Weekend Anzac Day Long

Sun May 31 Sun Aug 30 Key to Walk Programme Sun Nov 29 Trailstarter Trailstarter The Friends of Walk Rally Walk Sturt Gorge Trail Starter walk Sea-to-Summit Trail the Heysen Trail Nic Wait Starter Nic Wait Part 1 of 2 / Bob Gentle Trail Walker walk 10 Pitt Street Adelaide 5000 End-to-End walk Sun Aug 30 Sun May 31 Phone 08 8212 6299 Trailwalker Trailwalker Other walk event www.heysentrail.asn.au Sea-to-Summit of month 5th Week Warren/Hale Trail An explanation of walk grades and details for Whole trail / Julian Walker Richard Milosh each walk event are published on the website Monfries This version released 10 February 2009

For further information about each walk, walk grades, frequently asked questions or to print off a colour copy of the programme, visit www.heysentrail.asn.au/walks) Walk Grades Registering for Walks Walk Cancellations There are five different grades of walk on the Friends of the Heysen Trail You must register for a walk, either Walks are cancelled if the broadcasted forecast is for temperatures walk programme. Four of these operate during the walk season, generally over 32°C. For simplicity, this can be determined the night prior to from April to November when it is not Fire Ban Season: online or over the phone. the walk on the 7pm ABC evening news weather forecast, based upon the Bureau of Meteorology’s routine 4pm forecast. Even if the forecast • Trail Starter Register online (by Wed prior please) is later revised, the walk remains cancelled. End-to-End walks will be • Trail Walker rescheduled to the following month. This doesn’t apply to Summer • Trail Rambler at www.heysentrail.asn.au, Twilight Walks. • End-to-End or by phone the office on 8212 6299 When it is not walk season, generally during the summer Fire Ban Season, a (during the hours listed on page 4). If unforseen circumstances arise and you are no longer able to participate fifth walk grade, Summer Twilight Walks, operate. in the walk, please notify the office as soon as possible, preferably by 4pm Friday, or leave a message on the answering machine after this time. Details of each walk grade are provided on the website.

16 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Walk Programme 2009 Walk Season Programme Recommended Clothing and Equipment

April May June July August September October November Walkers joining our groups need to be appropriately equipped. Prime consideration is your safety, comfort and weather Sun May 3 Sun Jul 5 Sun Aug 2 Sun Sept 6 protection. Your safety and the safety of the walking group can Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter be jeopardised by those walkers wearing inappropriate footwear Morialta Stirling Kersbrook Mt Pleasant

Trail Sat June 6- Sun April 5 or clothing. Evacuation of a sick or injured walker from an Starter Lyn Wood Mon June 8 Liz Barry Mike Parsons Graham Parham Opening of inaccessible area can take many hours. A Walk Leader may decide Trip Away Walking Season not to accept people for a walk who are not appropriately dressed Sat May 2- Collinsville Sat July 4- Sat Aug 1- Sat Sept 5- Sat Oct 3- Sat Oct 31- Eden Valley Sun May 3 Station, Burra Sun July 5 Sun Aug 2 Sun Sept 6 Mon Oct 5 Sun Nov 1 or prepared for the local conditions.

End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 Father’s Day End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 End-to-End 3 of month 1st Week

Trail Peters Hill to Worlds End to Wandallah to Summit Rd to EE George Rd to Curnow’s Hut to

Walker What to Wear for Trail Starter and Trail Rambler walks. June Long Weekend Webb Gap Rd Wandallah Summit Rd EE George Rd Weekend Long October Curnows Hut Lock Ruin • Good walking shoes, or boots with grip soles. Not Sun May 10 Sun June 14 Sun Jul 12 Sun Aug 9 Sun Sept 13 Sun Oct 11 appropriate for bushwalking are: thongs; sandals; elastic Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter sided boots; and smooth-soled shoes or sneakers. Scott Creek Blackhill Ansteys Hill Warren Con Pk Sea to Summit Cox’s Scrub • Socks suitable to the footwear worn. Trail

Starter Bob Gentle A Wynen Robert Alcock Robyn Quinn Part 2 of 2 Bob Gentle Dot Farmer • Wet weather gear. A three quarter length waterproof rain jacket is ideal (showerproof spray jackets and quilted Sat June 13-

Easter Sun May 10 Sun Jul 12 Sun Aug 9 Sun Sept 13 Sun Oct 11 parkas are not waterproof and may lead to hypothermia). Sun June 14 Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker End-to-End 3 In summer a poncho style waterproof may be sufficient. Mother’s Day of month

2nd Week Montacute Peters Hill Kaiserstuhl Deep Creek Para Wirra Sat Nov 7- Trail Webb Gap Rd • A warm jumper or jacket of wool or polyester. Cotton Walker Richard Milosh to Worlds End Colin Edwards Ray Blight Ray Blight John Potter shirts and windcheaters provide little insulation when wet, Sun Nov 15 Sun April 19 Sun May 17 and retain water which quickly cools. Sun June 21 Sun Jul 19 Sun Aug 16 Sun Sept 20 Sun Oct 18 Trailstarter Trailstarter • Shorts, or loose comfortable wool or synthetic pants (jeans Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Great Ocean Walk Yurrebilla Trail Yurrebilla Trail are not recommended as they become cold when wet and Onkaparinga Mt George Chambers Gully Newland Head Athelstone Trail Rhonda Dempster/ Rhonda Dempster/ dry slowly) Starter Robyn Quinn Chris Porter Nic Waite Robyn Quinn Mary Cartland Lyn Woods Lyn Woods • Shade hat and sunscreen in sunny weather. Warm hat/ Sun June 21 Sun Jul 19 beanie in cooler weather. Sun April 19 Sun May 17 Sun Aug 16 Sun Sept 20 Sun Oct 18 Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Trailwalker Yurrebilla Trail Yurrebilla Trail of month 3rd Week Mount Compass Onkaparinga Mount Crawford Belair Waitpinga For Trail Walker and End-to-End walks, in addition to the above Trail Rhonda Dempster/ Rhonda Dempster/ Walker Richard Milosh Steve Wilkinson John Potter Michelle Foster Steve Wilkinson list, depending on walk location and the weather, please also Lyn Woods Lyn Woods consider Sun May 24 Sun June 28 Sun Jul 26 Sun Aug 23 Sun Sept 27 Sun Oct 25 • Thermal underwear Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter Trailstarter • Waterproof over-trousers Horsnell Gully Belair Wistow Aldgate Mt Lofty/Cleland Anstey’s Hill • Trail Gaiters.

Starter Arrienne Wynen Raelene Shaw Sandy Melbourne Gavin Campbell Colin Edwards Graham Parham What to Bring for Trail Starter and Trail Rambler walks. • Personal medication requirements, Basic First Aid and Sun April 26 Sun May Sun June 28 Sun Jul 26 Sun Aug 23 Sun Sept 27 Sun Oct 25 Emergency Kit End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4 End-to-End 4

of month • UV Sunblock 4th Week Cape Jervis to Cobblers Hill to Tapanappa to Balquhidder to Waitpinga to Tugwell Rd to Inman Valley to Trail • Walker Cobblers Hill Tapanappa Balquhidder Waitpinga Tugwell Road Inman Valley Myponga Insect Repellent

Anzac Day Long Weekend Anzac Day Long • Torch Sun May 31 Sun Aug 30 • Lunch and snacks (include some for emergency) Key to Walk Programme Sun Nov 29 Trailstarter Trailstarter The Friends of • Plastic bag for rubbish Walk Rally Walk Sturt Gorge Trail Starter walk Sea-to-Summit • Water in secure container; minimum 1 litre, and two Trail the Heysen Trail Nic Wait Starter Nic Wait Part 1 of 2 / Bob Gentle litre if temperature will be over 25°C (even more if Trail Walker walk 10 Pitt Street Adelaide 5000 temperature is forecast to be higher) End-to-End walk Sun Aug 30 Sun May 31 Phone 08 8212 6299 • Gear should be carried in a day pack. One with a Trailwalker Trailwalker Other walk event www.heysentrail.asn.au Sea-to-Summit supporting waist band is recommended. of month 5th Week Warren/Hale Trail An explanation of walk grades and details for Whole trail / Julian Walker Richard Milosh each walk event are published on the website Monfries This version released 10 February 2009 For Trail Walker and End-to-End walks, in addition to the above list, please bring • Whistle For further information about each walk, walk grades, frequently asked questions or to print off a colour copy of the programme, visit www.heysentrail.asn.au/walks) • Wide elastic bandage and Triangular bandage with safety pins. Walk Cancellations Twilight walks are of shorter duration and generally in more Walks are cancelled if the broadcasted forecast is for temperatures accessible areas. The above recommendations can be modified to over 32°C. For simplicity, this can be determined the night prior to suit the walk and weather conditions. The minimum requirements the walk on the 7pm ABC evening news weather forecast, based upon are to dress for the weather conditions and sun protection, wear the Bureau of Meteorology’s routine 4pm forecast. Even if the forecast comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, and bring 1 litre is later revised, the walk remains cancelled. End-to-End walks will be of water. If unsure, please check with the Walk Leader. rescheduled to the following month. This doesn’t apply to Summer Twilight Walks. The clothing and gear outlined above are our recommendations. Note that the Walk Leader may not accept If unforseen circumstances arise and you are no longer able to participate you for a walk if you are not suitably equipped for the local in the walk, please notify the office as soon as possible, preferably by conditions. If unsure, always check with the walk leader. 4pm Friday, or leave a message on the answering machine after this time.

Trailwalker Winter 2009 17 Nelson Lakes NP

Tramping in New Zealand’s South Island THE WONDERFUL NELSON LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Story and Photos by Alan Davis

“Nelson Lakes National Park, yes I’ve heard of it………….. Where is it again?” That’s the typical response from most people when I’m asked about where I have been hiking recently.

Well you have to cross the Tasman to New Zealand’s South Island for a start, and once there, you’ll find plenty of Kiwi trampers who know little about the park. Why? Well that’s the mystery especially when you consider the nearby Abel Tasman N.P. gets infinitely more visitors but can’t touch Nelson Lakes for scenery. I suspect those who know and love the place are just keeping quiet.

The geography of Nelson Lakes is classic South Island with a chain of mountains thrown up by the same great fault line that has formed the Southern Alps and the mighty peaks of Mt. Cook and Mt. Aspiring NP’s. Here the mountain ranges hide long deep valleys and Alan with Waiau Pass Behind little alpine lakes and tarns feed the crystal clear rivers lined with beech forest that flow down from the upper over an alpine pass then descending 5 approaches from the Circuit up to peaks. The passes and saddles that dot into another valley (the Sabine). For Angelus so it’s easy to enter and exit the ranges open up possibilities for most, the highlight of the Circuit will by different routes. My favourite by far much extended tramping. be the crossing of the Travers Saddle is the climb from Hopeless Creek over so good weather is a prerequisite but Sunset Saddle, magnificent scenery The best known “named” walk in the a 1000 metre descent to the West all the way with the view from the park is the Travers/Sabine Circuit, Sabine River that follows tends to turn summit simply jaw dropping. Because a 5 to 7 day hike that most do in a hikers’ knees to jelly (I’ll take the climb there’s no track, few use this pass so clockwise direction beginning and up any day). There are two “must do” the added bonus is you’ll have the ending near St. Arnaud, the friendly side trips from the track with by far the place to yourself. little town that lies on the northern most popular being the climb up to The other “must do” side trip is from perimeter of the park. In many Lake Angelus. By anyone’s reckoning West Sabine Hut up to Blue Lake. ways it’s a classic New Zealand this is a beautiful region (many Kiwis Surrounded by forest and with its tramp, following a river (the Travers) consider the setting of Angelus Hut impossibly beautiful blue green colour, upstream through lovely beech forest above the lake the most spectacular this is another great place to spend a before climbing above the headwaters in New Zealand.) There are at least night. Most do the trip up and down

18 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Nelson Lakes NP in a day so the Doc hut doesn’t get formidable and challenging to describe spectacular route is to climb up to the crowded, but hey, why not just camp its crossing. Well having climbed over exquisite Lake Thompson. To camp on the lake? Use the afternoon to this past summer (south to north) I can the night here as I did last summer, walk further up the valley climbing say there’s nothing to fear here though surrounded by snowy mountains above the tree line to Lake Constance. it is a true alpine pass and carries snow and with my only company a few Wonderful vistas of the mountains well into summer ( Doc advise carrying ducks and a lonely lost seagull, was further south will be your reward. an ice axe.) The views in all directions an unforgettable experience. Just are just amazing. above the lake it’s an easy climb to All sounds promising The scenery all Most trampers having Thompson Pass. However the descent so far? Well now to the crossed the pass and into the D’urville Valley is a different REALLY good part. The the way is simply continuing southwards matter evidently. (I haven’t crossed aforementioned walks stunning. Except for will now be following the pass myself.) “Don’t slip” is the probably occupy 95% of some short sections the Waiau River advice I’ve been offered. A far easier visitors to Nelson Lakes through the forest, and there’s about 3 route supposedly is to stay up high and venturing further a for the first few days hours of forest travel and follow just below the ridgeline field from here, you can there are no tracks so to Caroline Bivy. around to the Upper D’urville Pass almost expect to have (The map shows a before descending down into the East the place to yourself. It this route is probably track, however this Matakitaki valley. Either way you’re in must be said that away best not done alone. is more a footpad the western region of the park now. from the main tramping but persistence will This was my introduction to Nelson areas there are far fewer keep you on the right Lakes four summers ago when my marked routes and this presupposes path. Remember even a crappy track brother-in-law David March and I the ability to hike off-track. But for through the forest is far better than spent seven days on a hike from Lewis me, it’s this combination of wonderful none at all.) From the Bivy onwards Pass to St. Arnaud, a classic trip if there scenery coupled with a real sense of the valley opens out and travel is much ever was one. Leaving the St. James remoteness that makes the park so easier. After a couple of days the St. Walkway (and civilisation) behind at special. James Walkway is met and this can be Ada Pass Hut, a bush bash through the followed to Lewis Pass or Boyle River. forest following Maruai Stream leads From Lake Constance the first obstacle to a crossing of the Three Tarns Pass. to progress south is the mighty Waiau From the base of the Waiau Pass These little alpine lakes are the source Pass. Writers have used words like on the southern side a far more of the West Matakitaki and it’s a long

Paske Creek

Trailwalker Winter 2009 19 Nelson Lakes NP

Waiau River

slog following the river downstream into the next valley. There are some downstream is for the hardy only, until a 3 wire bridge crossing leads to sections of track through the forest many hours of bush bashing through the East Matakitaki branch. Climbing and several huts but the passes are all the forest. The consolation is great up to the head of the valley the choice unmarked. Again, plenty of wonderful scenery and you’re guaranteed to have is cross the previously mentioned scenery and very few trampers (I’ve the place to yourself. Upper D’urville Pass or as we did spent a number of days exploring up climb over David Saddle and descend and down these valleys and using Back at the Clarence below Paske to the D’urville River. The scenery all them as access routes into the park Saddle, the easier route is to follow the way is simply stunning. Except over the last two summers and have the river down to Lake Tennyson then for some short sections through the yet to see another soul.) The head hike (and wade) around the eastern forest, for the first few days there are of the Paske is particularly lovely and shoreline. At the outlet an old stock no tracks so this route is probably best few would pass up the opportunity to track can be accessed that offers a not done alone. The walk down the spend a night in the old Forestry Dept. quick an easy route over the Maling D’urville is rugged but there is a well hut. From here it’s a good three hour Pass into the Waiau Valley and the marked track, huts and personally, climb to Paske Saddle (no tracks but option then of travelling north into the I think this is even a more beautiful all straight forward navigation) then a heart of the park or south to the St. river valley than the Sabine. Highly steep descent down to the Clarence, James Walkway. recommended. this valley almost Himalayan the way This overview of Nelson Lakes is based steep stark mountains climb straight on my three visits here over the past The eastern boundary of Nelson Lakes up from the river. If heading upstream four summers. Obviously there is is delineated by the St. Arnaud Range you eventually have a long climb up much more to the park and if you’re but a number of lovely valleys just into a little alpine meadow at the base interested in exploring its potential outside the park (but in an area under of Mt. Belvedere. Again if the weather as a wonderful tramping region, Doc control) have their beginnings is good this is an exceptionally visit Peter Kemp’s website at www. in these mountains. The Hamilton beautiful spot to camp. It’s about an nelsonlakesshuttles.co.nz . Pete and River, Connors and Begley Creeks, hour then onto Clarence Pass and his wife Trish run a trampers transport the Rainbow and Paske Creek all flow standing atop here you’ll be inclined service based in St. Arnaud and few eastwards and often it’s just a case of to think as I did “Is this as good as it know and love the park as they do. following the river upstream before gets?” crossing a saddle at the headwaters From the saddle you descend into the See you there next summer. which leads over and then down East Sabine but following this valley

20 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Kangaroo Island Walking on Kangaroo Island

Richard Trembath

So You’ve Finished the Heysen Trail and You’re Looking for a New Challenge?

During April and May this year PARAQUAD SA is a not for profit several spectacular viewpoints along two brothers, Tom and Jake Giles, community organisation committed the way. attempted a circum-navigation (or to serving and promoting the best perhaps a circum-terragation) of interests of people with disabilities in a Recently re-opened after the 2007 Kangaroo Island by foot. Their 500km manner which recognises their worth bushfires the Snake Lagoon Hike in the trek - mainly following the coast - and dignity, their right to experience Flinders Chase National Park winds took them across cliff-tops, through life’s events and develop their full through Sugar Gums and mallee before secluded valleys and coves, over potential. descending into the Rocky River valley. remote windswept beaches and past The trail crosses Rocky River and spectacular rock formations. They For those not up to the challenge of a meanders along its bank to the mouth, both finished the walk at Emu Bay on ‘circum-terragation’ of KI there are a providing spectacular views through the 16th of May although Jake had to number of shorter walks that access the valley and across the Southern bypass the Dudley Peninsula section the natural attractions of the Island. Ocean. due to ill health. The Clifftop Hike at Cape Borda is the There are a number of other interesting It is the first time a complete ‘circum- perfect introduction to this spectacular day walks on Kangaroo Island and terragation’ of Kangaroo Island by foot site. You may be rewarded with further details can be found on the has been attempted in one go. To do dolphin or whale sightings, or views Tourism Kangaroo Island web site: this, Tom & Jake had to live off the of soaring sea-eagles. The Hanson Bay land and they conducted extensive Hike at Kelly Hill Conservation Park http://www.tourkangarooisland.com. research into the edible fish and plant is also spectacular. It is 18km (return) au/wildlife/walks.aspx life on and around Kangaroo Island taking 6 hours to complete. The trail before commencing their trip. meanders from the Visitors’ Centre The Friends of the Heysen Trail will to the south coast at Hanson Bay and offer a weekend away on Kangaroo Their main objective for their walk showcases Pink Gum woodlands, Island as part of the 2010 walking was to raise awareness of Spinal Cord mallee, coastal heaths, freshwater program. Injury and PARAQUAD SA. lagoons and ancient dunes. There are

Cape Borda Beach Walk

Trailwalker Winter 2009 21 Gammon Ranges A Dry Walk

The Gammon Ranges Walk

Story and Photos by Russell O’Brien

Having done a little walking in the Flinders Ranges, how could I pass up a chance to take a walk in the Gammon Ranges?

A phone call from two ex-work Chasm, The Terraces and Streak to our base camp at Grindell colleagues, recently retired, inviting Gorge. Few tracks to follow Hut to register the walk was a me to join them in a walk in the and remote and rugged country fundamental safety precaution. Vulkathunha - Gammon Ranges would mean carefully plotting Other precautions included an National Park over Easter resulted an intended route and appropriate in a planning meeting over coffee preparing to know But what about every number of at the Adelaide Central Market. exactly where we were walker’s most precious walkers in all times. But what resource, water? Would the group A route essentially following the about every walkers’ Heard’s notes regarding each with a creek systems was determined most precious resource, its availability be good level that was to explore an area west water? Would Heard’s relevant in 2009? How of fitness, a of Grindell Hut. The idea was to notes regarding its much water would we PLB (personal use notes from a book written availability be relevant need to carry? How hot locator by Adrian Heard in 1990 titled in 2009? How much would it be? How far beacon), “Gammon Ranges National water would we need to would we be able to go? extra water Park and Arkaroola Sanctuary: A carry? How hot would it to leave part Walking Guide to the Northern be? How far would we way along Flinders Ranges”. This looked like be able to go? the route, good maps, compass, a really exciting walk with location GPS with route and waypoints names like Old Man of Italowie, A stop over at Balcanoona loaded and good quality Cleft Peak, Rover Rockhole, Fern Park Headquarters on the way equipment.

Our party of four (Quenby and Peter Sinclair, Geoff Gibbons and myself) assembled at Grindell Hut late afternoon of Good Friday. On Easter Saturday we set off just after 8.00 o’clock in the morning along a 4 wheel drive track heading for an area called Gibber Plain. Leaving the 4WD track at this point we crossed the southern part of Worturpa Pound with the intention of meeting up with Italowie Creek. It didn’t take long for the temperature to rise and along with it the need to drink the water that was, by now, weighing each of us down. Italowie Gibber Plain Creek is impressive by its

22 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Gammon Ranges

Italowie Creek width, countless rocks, many gum Wildflower Creek was also South Branch creek system and trees (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) beautiful with numerous grass finally into the gorge where the and stands of Flinders Ranges trees (Xanthorrea quadrangulata) rock hole is located. The climb to pine (Callitris glaucophylla). At but dry, dry, dry. the saddle and down the other the junction of the North and side was made treacherous by South Branches of Italowie Creek Back at camp over the evening scree and required careful and we located one of the creek’s meal the conversation inevitably considered steps. Fortunately magnificent gums that conveniently turned to our present water there was a narrow track from had a large hollow in its base into supplies and how far they could the saddle to the valley floor. The which we placed water supplies safely take us along our intended gorge was cool and spectacular, for our return trip. Carefully the route. The only sensible solution but devoid of water. On the return hollow was covered with bark given the reasonably high daily trip Peter brought our attention and its location marked with a temperatures and hard walking to a slender green fruit that was GPS. We then moved on to our conditions that we had experienced subsequently identified for us by planned destination for the day: was to check a further nominated some local Adnyamathanha people the junction of North Branch and water supply located at Rover as mayaaka or wild pear (Native Wildflower Creek just a couple of Rockhole. In Heard’s notes this pear, Leichhardtia australis). kilometres to the northwest. water source was given 90 to 95 percent reliability in all but Both at our camp site and at Rover After setting up camp, a light lunch exceptional seasons. It was decided Rockhole there was evidence of and, most importantly, changing that the following day we would camp fires used by bushwalkers heavy packs in favour of day packs, take day packs only and maintain some time ago. It was obvious that we made our way up Wildflower our existing camp. If water existed this area had been well trodden Creek to the turn off to Old Man at Rover Rockhole, we would but many years had passed since. of Italowie, a rock hole that was replenish our supply, return to Almost certainly this would be supposedly to contain potable camp and collect backpacks before because of the years of drought water. No such luck. The rock proceeding with our planned that had plagued the area. Heard hole contained a small volume walking route. makes the point that the Gammon of a milky - green, putrid looking Ranges’ water supplies result from substance which was constantly The walk to Rover was hard going summer rains rather than those in under attack by insects of various and required climbing over a winter received in the south. He descriptions. The gorge however substantial saddle which took says, “... because the Northern was spectacular. Not surprisingly us into the upper reaches of the Flinders are on the dividing range

Trailwalker Winter 2009 23 Gammon Ranges

Gorge near Rover Rockhole

between southern (ie. winter rainfall) and northern (ie. summer rainfall) weather Notes: patterns, some unusual things can occur. Map used: Illinawortina, 6737-3, third edition, 1:50,000 Sometimes thunderstorms may bring rain Book: Heard, Adrian. Gammon Ranges National Park and to the north or east of the ranges and Arkaroola Sanctuary: A Walking Guide to the Northern leave the south and west dry.” Flinders Ranges. State Publishing, S.A. 1990 (This book is in the State Library of SA collection.) Beaten by lack of water and now with reduced supplies, we made our retreat a little disillusioned but pleased that we had had a go and seen this magnificent country albeit under the stress of drought. I have little doubt that we were all a little dehydrated as we set out mid afternoon after collecting our backpacks from the camp and headed for the stored water kept cool in the hollow of the tree. In a short time we had retrieved the water, made camp nearby and settled into yet another night of mild temperatures.

The next morning we walked back along Italowie Creek until we met the road upon which we had commenced our walk from Grindell Hut. Interestingly, while we walked, storm clouds were gathering not far away. A couple of hours later as we travelled towards Copley rain fell and water flowed alongside and over the roadway.

Good falls of rain over a number of years will hopefully transform the rugged and beautiful Gammon Ranges to its former glorious state. To see it with an abundance of water would truly be a wonderful experience. For the sake of the area’s future I just hope with all my heart that it will be sooner rather than later.

24 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Member Discounts

Discounts Available to Members

The following discounts are available to members. Your membership card must be shown to receive the discount, some exclusions apply.

Friends of the Heysen Trail Mitchell’s Adventure 10 Pitt St, Adelaide 8212 6299 Westfield Marion 8296 7700 10% discount on all maps and books Westfield Tea Tree Plaza 8395 9555 (excluding sale items) 10% discount (excluding sale items and portable fridges) Adelaide Hatters 36 Adelaide Arcade, Adelaide 8224 0131 Mountain Designs 10% discount 187 Rundle St, Adelaide 8232 1351 10% discount (excluding sale items) Annapurna Outdoor Shop 210 Rundle St, Adelaide 8223 4633 Paddy Pallin 10% discount (excluding sale items) 228 Rundle St, Adelaide 8232 3155 10% discount (excluding sale items) Aussie Disposals 42 Pulteney St, Adelaide 8224 0388 SA Camping World Elizabeth City Centre 8287 3008 109 Jetty Road, Glenelg 8376 1330 Colonnades, Noarlunga 8326 3186 10% to 15% discount excluding sale items 327 Main North Rd, Enfield 8342 4844 Scout Outdoor Centre Up to 10% discount 192 Rundle St, Adelaide 8223 5544 Boots Great Outdoors Centre 10% discount on outdoor gear (excluding sale items) 1277 South Road, St Marys 8277 7789 Snowy’s Outdoors Up to 10% discount (excluding sale items and fridges) 92 Richmond Road, Keswick 8351 2111 Columbia Sportswear Company Up to 10% discount 208 Rundle St, Adelaide 8232 0690 Trims 10% discount off recommended retail price 322 King William St, Adelaide 8212 5099 Flinders Camping Westfield Marion 8298 9777 187 Rundle St, Adelaide 8223 1913 5% discount 10% discount (excluding sale items) Wattyl Paints Centres Refer to page 52 of the 2008 White Pages for your nearest outlet.

Attention Walk Leaders

Forestry SA Rangers have asked that clubs provide prior notification of all planned walks in forest areas. Please provide the approximate number of participants and details of the proposed walk route. This would apply to all walks throughout the year. Contacts: Mt Crawford Forest Phone (08) 8521 1700 Phone (08) 8391 8800

Trailwalker Winter 2009 25 End2End Walks

End to End 3 and End to End 4

By Gavin Campbell

To quote the words of the song “Here we go again”, a new walking season and a new season of End to End walks has begun. With the End to End 2 group finishing last year to much fan fare and excitement it meant this year we would be starting a new group at Cape Jervis. As the bookings for this new group surpassed the 120 of E2E3 we decided to call a stop at 200. This meant 4 bus loads with the two busses doing a return trip. This would make the logistics easier, for it would divide the groups into 100 each which meant two groups of about the same number as with E2E3.

The Beginning for the End to End 4 Group

The first walk was to be 26th April We were a little slow because of a leisurely pace so as to take it all and the weather forecast looked new boots and some lack of fitness in. Ask any one who has walked all but promising. Anzac Day was but I, and from all accounts our from end to end and they will tell very wet and windy and it would group had a magnificent day. As the same story with one word have been a minor disaster had I said to those who were ecstatic repeating itself. “MAGNIFICENT”. the walk been then, but it wasn’t. about the scenery, “It gets better The 26th turned out to be quite and better. The next walk is a bit To those who whimped out a pleasant day. In fact for all of tough but beautiful and is probably because they thought the weather the bluster and foreboding of the the hardest on the whole Trail. If would be too unpleasant, don’t morning the weather at Cape you can survive that and it is only miss the rest and don’t be turned Jarvis turned out to be pretty good. marginally harder that the first off by the weather, just come There were a few showers but day, then you are in for one of the dressed for the occasion. Some they were light and diminished most magnificent experiences of of my most memorable days have during the day. Our group, “the your lifetime. You will see scenery been rough weather days. One smell the roses group” from the you didn’t think South Australia thing about South Australia, we second bus had a really good day. was capable of and you will see it don’t have many rainy days.

Start of End to End 4 Group Blow Hole Beach

26 Trailwalker Winter 2009 End to End Walks

View from Tothill Ranges The statue of Curio the best buck jumperl

End to End 3 Walking Group Continues

The following weekend was usual there were a lot of infant were surprised at our leisurely to be E2E3’s turn and what a and child deaths recorded which pace of morning tea and lunch weekend. The weather couldn’t leaves a sad note. We also had and implied they may join our have been better. Perfect on lunch watching a motorbike rally group for future walks. One such Saturday, more perfect on which added to the flavor of the interloper was new member, Sunday. Some of us went up on day. ‘Heysen Rose’ and we all look Friday and enjoyed a great meal forward to progress reports on together at the Riverton Pub. Saturday night consisted of a future walks. Marie and I went on to stay at the meal at the Riverton Bowling Club Saddleworth Pub, to be up bright which most people attended. So ends this little synopsis of the and early for a rendezvous at the The theme was red to celebrate start of the End to End season and bucking horse statue at Marrabel. Mayday. There were some quite I hope the rest of the walks are as As you know Marrabel is the stupendous outfits, along with good as these were. home of a Rodeo and, ‘Curio’, the those who forgot and dressed horse in the statue was apparently normally. Thankfully I had a the best of the best buck jumpers. long forgotten red beanie in my bag which saved me. I thought I The walk for the weekend was might look a bit silly but Simon’s To view more pictures of to be across open farmland and red beret saved my day. the E2E walks go to www. then along the base of the Tothill heysentrail.asn.au/links/blogs. Range. Again our “Roses group” Sunday morning was again php. - or had a good day. Taking things prefect and after the Campbell’s picasaweb.google.com.au/ steady and taking in as much of little mishap at the start the ralcock1 the local way of life as possible. busses got away and again the If you have a blog or photo We had a look around the Roses group had a good day. site showing pics of the Heysen Marrabel Catholic Church with There are some good views as Trail let us know and we can its stained glass windows and its well as some lovely walking along add the address to the links cemetery, with tombstones dating and over the Tothills Range. page. back to the mid 19th century. As Some interlopers to our group

Trailwalker Winter 2009 27 End2End Walks Friends of the Heysen Trail —Marketing activities PROMOTION WORKS!

By Robert Alcock Chair Marketing and Membership Committee

At the End 2 End 4 (E2E4) first day on April 26th we had a crowd — a pleasingly large group of 145 walkers. There were also 78 on the E2E3 weekend away in May. Both of these walks were booked out, as there are only so many seats on the buses.

Occasionally other popular walks had a HT article in Edition1, 2009 • Heysen Friendly Town have also been filled (although — in which a number of members Proposal—Commenced certainly not all of our walks). It photos were published. some time ago, the aim is would appear that our promotional to increase the awareness activities over recent years have Amongst the various groupings and information available released the secret that is the and committees that support the on the HT in the regional Heysen Trail. Friends, there is a Marketing and towns, for the locals and Membership committee (M&M). visitors. An increase in This committee was formed to: advisory, information and The Friends promotional activities are focused around the regions • promote the profile of safety signage is part of this along the length of the Heysen FOHT and the Heysen proposal. The Friends aim Trail (HT), and in Adelaide. Yet Trail in SA, nationally and is to work with Local Govt the trail does get coverage outside internationally plus local business and of Adelaide too. There have Development groups. • prepare strategies of been articles on the Heysen Trail achieving sustained growth • Shop — to look at ways to in interstate newspapers, and increase traffic to the shop published recently in national and in FOHT’s membership in Pitt Street. international magazines (below). • identify and evaluate The south coast section of the potential sources of • Look into the production of Heysen Trail is soon to be featured sponsorship support for a FOHT Photo Calendar in the Australian Geographic with FOHT’s activities. for 2010 an article by South Australian, Quentin Chester. The Friends were contacted and were able to In working to these objectives we The Friends and the Heysen Trail provide some assistance with each become involved with many of are promoted at events that seem of these magazine articles. our other groups—from the office/ appropriate. shop, walking and maintenance, An opportunity was at the Caravan assisting them to achieve their and Camping Show (Feb), Tiger Tales, the in-flight magazine goals. The Friends main links of Singapore-based Tiger Airways with WALK SA and a number with members and the public of other walk clubs, Thanks to featured the HT and other walks are through the website and our Jack & Gilbert for organising the near Adelaide in the Jan-Feb 2009 magazine, Trailwalker. These are edition. managed by this committee. volunteers over the 5 days. We had a great promotion, with a heap of enquiries on the Heysen Trail and Coast and Country magazine, a Included in activities planned for our walk programme. We also gave large glossy national publication, 2009 are: away our stock of Trailwalkers!!

28 Trailwalker Winter 2009 End2End Walks

We were at the Walk Season END 2 END Walks commence for the year. Opening at Eden Valley (April). There were many walkers in attendance, with a limited number Heysen Trail E2E3 days 22 and 23 of the public (it was a wet and dull morning in Adelaide, then the day By Robert Alcock turned on lovely sunny skies for us, and the many walkers out on the various walks). Our display attracted many enquiries, and a lot of chatting to fellow walkers. Many of the 78 walkers farewelled good South Australian) should, Thanks again to Jack. the family and went north for he gave opportunity for the the weekend. This was the first group to purchase one. Saturday We plan to attend the Friends of of many E2E3 trips in 2009. night found a lively group at the Parks Forum in August. The weather controller gave us Riverton Bowling Club, where 2 glorious sunny days perfect Simon presided with red beret, for walking (thanks Paul). And red waistcoat and red lipped The Committee looks after the with the green buds across the cheeks. Red being the “May Day” merchandising of our publications paddocks we knew the late theme for the weekend. Mary (Manuela did a great job and we spring was finally here. Yes, displayed the Friends books, maps haven’t found a replacement!) Saturday was too long on the and tops to a crowd and made and clothing (thanks Mary). It roads, although fortunately most some sales. The stayers finally also produces brochures, flyers, were minor back roads, leading left so that the club volunteers posters, maps and cards as us on from below Peters Hill. could clean up and get home (it’s required. Also fortunately, we missed always a hint when the chairs go getting tangled with the local on top of the tables). motorbike trial (100 bikes) Recently new hut logbooks have which scooted past our tail, been made up to go into huts and and then appeared at the finish, The hotel and cabin crews awoke to cosy warmth while the campers shelters. These replace the old when the bikes competed for found it chilly and damp outside hut books (in various states of the road as we left in the cars. On the walk one group spent their thin shelters. Sunday started disrepair), and provides for similar some minutes contemplating the with an adventure, with many books at all huts. Eight books were “Curio” horse statue while their brave drivers following Google taken to the northern Huts during leader ducked into the local Pub map instructions down a two an inspection trip over Easter. (Marrabel). No, not for a beer. wheel very muddy track. It was Other Hut books will be installed He had been informed that they with faith we stuck to it and came as the huts are visited. sold Golden North icecream, out as the map said. This was a and so as a good leader (and a glorious day with the “normal” walkers snapping at the heels of Have you something constructive the “sprinters” on the first climb to contribute? Then chat with up and over the Tothill Range. a committee member about it, Mallee scrub, rocky hills and a or come and check us out at a patchwork of farmlands stretching meeting. across the valleys made for a very pleasant walk, with morning tea up on top of the range. We even passed 2 picturesque windmills to Editor’s Note: If you have any keep the shutter snappers happy. interesting photos that you have taken on your Heysen Trail walks and you would like to share them With fit walkers and good weather we made good time to Web Gap with other walkers then please email Road, which provided time for it to [email protected] a relaxing drive home. (or to with some information relating to get up north, for the group who where the photo was taken. continued their trip by trekking over Mt Arden).

View from Tothill Ranges

Trailwalker Winter 2009 29 Loop Walk

Loop walk

Aldgate — Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens — Bridgewater

By Gavin Campbell

This walk is fairly long but possibly a Once on this bush track follow it to its this through some pine trees on a must do in autumn when the leaves in conclusion which is onto a vehicle track road reserve and then work your way the hills are at their most colourful and that follows the railway line. The next up the hill on any one of the tracks to in spring when the flowers, both wild bit is tricky, but try to find a track that Mawson Drive and the Heysen Trail. and domesticated, are at their best. It is leads into the Woorabinda Reserve and (Those tracks mentioned are bicycle a walk I have taken “Friends” groups on walk around the lake. On all of my walks tracks, so look out for bikes coming several occasions, so for those people this is where we have morning tea, for down the hill at a fairly fast rate.) this will be old, familiar territory. there are lots of sitting places overlooking Follow the Heysen Trail down through the lake. After morning tea, walk onto the gardens or follow any of the tracks The walk starts at the shopping centre Woorabinda Drive, turn left and follow through the gardens to meet up with carpark at Aldgate. Make sure you leave the road back onto the track following the the “Trail” at the bottom gate. I always your car in the right place for alot of railway line. Follow that track to the right, stop in the gardens for lunch for the car park is private and indicates back onto Mabel Street and then almost there are some good views and seats only 2 hour parking. From the car park, immediately back onto the vehicle track and tables and an hour or two taken walk away from the main road onto on railway land next to the railway line. walking around is well spent. Fenchurch Road and turn right. Before Follow the railway line under the road and adjacent to Stangate House there is bridge, up some steps onto the railway After this follow the Heysen Trail to a lane way follow this through to Euston platform of Mt Lofty Station. Immediately Bridgewater and the “Mill”, then back Road (this all sounds a bit Monopoly turn right onto Birch Road and walk up along the Mount Barker Road footpath boardish) then cross over Euston Road, the hill. The first road to the left is Lenton to Aldgate and your car. A pleasant cross over the railway line (lookout for Lane, follow this, climb up some steps conclusion is a drink and/or a meal at trains) and follow the railway line to to Rostrevor Road, turn right and then either the Bridgewater Hotel or the your left until you reach Milan Terrace. left on a bush track adjacent to Ayers Hill Aldgate Pump Hotel. I always walk Cross over Milan Terrace onto Madurta Road to the roundabout. If you miss that back through the suburbs and back Avenue, take the first road on your right track, walk along the Ayers Hill Road foot streets rather than along the main road (Keroma Drive) and follow that onto path to the roundabout. but that is up to the discretion of the Linwood Avenue. At its conclusion, or walker as there are many routes that when Madurta Avenue meets it, turn At the roundabout, go down Turner can be taken. right along a bush track. If you get onto Crescent, down a foot lane and then Bogaduck Road you have gone too far. left onto Howard Drive. Walk a short Most of this walk can be followed The reason for this diversion is to walk distance then onto the footbridge across on the UBD street directory and the past “Richwyn” one of the best gardens the Freeway into Crafers. Follow the Heysen Trail Southern Guide (maps in the hills. Stangate is another and is footpath along Piccadilly Road until you 3.3 and 3.4) open on all Sundays during September. reach Georgina Road on your left. Follow

30 Trailwalker Winter 2009 Scarpa ZG65 Boots

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Heysen Trail Transport Service

Put yourself in the picture For a chance to step Drop off / Pick ups this way please call Mount Arden, Eyre Depot, Buckaringa, 08 8369 1779 Parachilna Trailhead and more… or email: [email protected] QUORN BASED Wallaby Tracks Adventure Tours Wish to offer their professional services to Heysen Trail walkers requiring assistance to complete the Dutchmans – Buckaringa gate sections

Contact Details: Operator: Paul Keen Postal address: 6 Railway Tce. Quorn. S.A. 5433 Phone/ Mob: 0428 486 655 Email: [email protected] Website: www.wallabytracks.com

Trailwalker Winter 2009 31 You have a Will. You feel secure. But your loved ones could be left vulnerable through HIGH taxes and the UNINTENDED division of your Estate.

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