Newcastle Ramblers Bushwalking Club Newsletter Editor Bob Clifton – [email protected] November 2019
Returning in the afternoon along Patonga Beach after a fabulous walk to Pearl Beach (Col McCluskey)
Staples Lookout to Girrakool, Brisbane Waters NP The Horse Run Revisited, Wollemi NP Shadowland - A Gratitude to Lindsay Wall, and A Tribute to Lindsay Wall Exploring the Passes of Narrowneck, Blue Mountains NP Vale Maureen Grealy Johnsons Beach Track and River Mouth Track, Myall Lakes NP Pearl Beach to Patonga, Brisbane Waters NP Hornsby to Galston Gorge, Great North Walk Stockrington Conservation Area Lower Spring Creek (downstream from the Horse Run), Wollemi NP Bagnall Creek and Surrounds, Yengo NP Lake Macquarie Rogaine, and Quorrobolong Bike Ride Pindar Cave, Brisbane Water NP Sunset on Burragurra, Yengo NP, and Landcare Morning at Koorangang Wetland, Ash Island Mystery Peak, Tomaree NP Thornleigh to Hornsby, Great North Walk The Running Stream Creek Incident, Wollemi NP Barraba Spur, Watagan NP and Rocky Ponds, Brisbane Waters NP Pilchers Chasm and Abbotts Falls, Watagan NP Mount Olive, Propran NP, and Green’s Run, Mangrove Creek Beginners Backpack at Drummers Flat, Goulburn River NP Redhead Beach Twilight Walk and Stockton Bridge Twilight Walk It’s All About the Orchids’ on Mt Royal, and An Experience with the Onset of Heat Exhaustion A Week of Walking in the Grampians and Yacaaba Headland Circuit, Myall Lakes NP
Newcastle Ramblers Bushwalking Club – July 2019
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Note from the Editor
A lot has happened since our July Newsletter. The program has been full of great activities to enjoy during the cooler weather of Winter and early Spring. There have been daywalks each weekend, twilight walks when daylight saving recommenced, bike rides and camps. David Morrison continued with his investigations and history recording in the Horse Run and has led walks to rediscover interesting locations visited thirty years ago. He has also led us into other new local places. Jenni Kauter organised a fabulous week of walking in the Grampians of Victoria for over thirty Ramblers and friends, to be followed by a number of other activities (rail trail bike riding, fishing and touring) before participants arrived back home.
A couple of beginner’s backpacks were incorporated into the program to the Goulburn River and to the Boree Track. The opportunity to participate in Landcaring activities continued in Arcadia Park, and the restoration of the Richmond Vale Rail Trail is now an option.
A first aid training course was conducted in August and the Club entered teams in the Lake Macquarie Rogaine and NavShield events – all teams performed credibly enhancing their bush navigation skills.
Two of our extended walks were disrupted following incidents. There was a lucky escape for Alan Thomas after a serious fall in the Wollemi which required his evacuation by helicopter and on another occasion an incident of heat exhaustion in New England NP. Both incidents were dealt with competently by the Leaders and the other members in the parties.
It is with sadness that we record the passing of two of our active members – Maurene Grealy in August and Lindsay Wall in November.
I thank those members who continued to contribute notes and photos to Facebook, which has provided a valuable source of material for much of the newsletter. I would of course appreciate more lengthy reports and photos of walks and activities which are a bit different or visit new interesting places.
Our next issue which is due in March 2020 will showcase the photos and winners of this year’s photo competition.
Until then best wishes and good walking. I hope it doesn’t get too hot over Summer.
Bob Clifton - Editor
Postcard from the West
Great to get a note and nice photo from Chris and Helen Paterson (a couple of previous Ramblers from the 1970's) on a shakedown walk in Porongurup NP before tackling a section of the Bibbulmun Track - lots of granite and wildflowers. Members will recall meeting up with Chris and Helen at Joan’s 90th Birthday in March.
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Staples Lookout to Girrakool, Brisbane Waters NP - 13 July 2019
Walkers: Mary McKillop (leader) and fourteen Ramblers
Having met up at the Big Flower at Ourimbah, a smaller convoy made its way up the Ourimbah Hill heading to Staples Lookout. The days walk was very undulating, a significant portion along the Great North Walk with lots of interesting things to see. Many thanks to Mary for not only organising today's walk, but also arranging the vehicle shuffles.
Note by Jackie Mann
Interesting locations along the walk with Mary, Coral, Dawn, and Joe featured
The Horse Run Revisited, Wollemi NP – 14 July 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (leader) and seven Ramblers
A great day for walking, cool but sunny with a light breeze for most of the day. We had Ranger Shayne with us to finalise some of the details of the site which we had collected on our last visit.
In particular, we cleared the floor of the house of grasses and dead wood. Hopefully, this will prevent wooden remnants of the building being burned the next time a fire goes through. It also made it much easier to work out the size and function of different parts. For example, we discovered that the stones we had previously thought were just the edge of a platform, were in fact part of a floor laid with flag stones. (We did not find any of them!)
We also took detailed measurements of the memorial stone to the little girl. Interestingly, the hole in the rock into which the plaque has been set is about 70mm deep. We also explored some of the surrounding area, looking for axe grooves we had been told were in the creek, for trees with nails and wire attached to them, and for an old iron horse-drawn plough.
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A side trip was to follow Flakey Creek upstream to see what was there. It turned out to be a wide flat rock most of the way up its length, making it exceptionally easy to walk. There was quite a bit of water in holes in the rock. This may well have been used by the Viger family when they lived in the Horse Run, and by the Aborigines.
Report by David Morrison
The old homestead location. Barry’s sharp eyes found a horseshoe and he was able to identified more than nineteen fruit trees. Our return took us along the cliff lines above Spring Creek.
Shadowland - A Gratitude to Lindsay Wall
From as far as the eye can reach, nothing is to be seen but the summits of these massive rocky mountains, which seem to lay so near one another as not to admit any valleys between them. Around every corner and over every hill stunning views of snow- capped mountains climbing over 7000 metres meets our eyes. Such is the beauty of the Himalia Mountains of Nepal.
We are walking up a steep slope with a wind of -10 degrees and at 5000 metres above sea level, Lindsay, Lynne, Val and myself, are in the shadow of Everest.
We all share and feel both the awe and humility of one of the most inspiring and beautiful places on earth. None of us will ever forget this memory.
We owe this to the encouragement and inspiration of Lindsay and Lynne. Val and I will never forget this incredible experience, and we truly thank them for it.
Robert Gascoigne
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A Tribute to Lindsay Wall - 1954 to 2019
Lindsay died on 8th November 2019 at the age of 65. He joined the Ramblers Bushwalking Club in 2003 and from the outset became involved in all aspects of the Club. The Ramblers Club and bushwalking with his new friends became Lindsay’s passion. In 2005 Lynne Mercer, his partner joined our Club and they were a wonderful team and always a pleasure and great company to be with.
Lindsay could focus on detail and he loved planning and organizing things. He applied these qualities to the Club’s organization in many ways – early evidence of this was his role in the Editorial Team (Lynne and Lindsay) which produced our Newsletters from 2007 to 2014. It was Lindsay who proofread, checked and adjusted the format to make sure that each Newsletter went out word perfect.
Lindsay soon became a walk’s leader for the Club, his first being to his favourite haunt in the Warrumbungles in October 2004. He went on to lead many walks with a particular interest in the GNW which he led in 2007 and commenced again in 2019. His walks were always very popular, not too hard or easy and pitched at a level that everyone would enjoy. Lindsay loved people and could never say no and as a result he often had 20 or so participants tagging along. More than one member has mentioned the welcome and kindness that Lindsay extended to them when new to the Club.
Lindsay’s first beginners backpack with Lynne was in July 2009 and was the start of some great walking trips which most of us shared with them. We have all enjoyed such wonderful adventures, holidays, family get-togethers and social events over sixteen years such as:
Two Great Ocean Walks - Extended walks in Tasmania - The Three Capes Walk - Trips to the Snowy Mountains - Central Australia for two weeks - Snow shoeing at Perisher - Pantoneys Crown - Lindsay organised two outstanding Jatbula Walks - Lindsay with Lynne graduated from the Club’s abseiling course and tackled adventures in the Kanangra Deep and Serendipity Canyon - Canoes were purchased for adventures on the Colo River - Lindsay organized overseas travel and walking trips in Nepal, to Egypt and Jordan and New Zealand - The many stages of the GNW.
On these trips Lindsay, with his sense of the occasion was always the one to set up the camera perched on a rock with the timer set and then race and stumble back to the group to be included in the picture, always providing a good laugh and some top photos.
He wanted to give back to the Club, encourage others and he delighted in passing on his knowledge and skills to others. We have over sixty current trained First Aiders, thanks to Lindsay’s organization of regular 1st Aid courses. Map reading and navigation courses were also organized by Lindsay, as were practice rogaining navigation events as a precursor to the NSW Search and Rescue Navshield orienteering events held in July each year. In the last few years Lynne and Lindsay hosted the Club’s annual Christmas parties at their bush property in Leaconfield.
Many of us joined in the annual Kids Camps in the Warrumbungles, Woko NP, and Camp Cobark. They would involve Lindsay in making several trips prior to the date to secure the perfect spot and cart and erect all the necessary equipment. The camps were also an opportunity to meet and get to know Lynne and Lindsay’s lovely families and friends.
We loved Lindsay’s sense of humour – he had some wonderful one liners which would bring the house down. Any presentation at a Club meeting was always entertaining and funny.
Lindsay was counting the days down to retirement and on any walk he could tell you to the day, hour when that was to occur. Soon after retiring from Liddell Power Station in 2014 when he turned 60 years Lynne and Lindsay headed off on their well planned and equipped driving trip to the NT and WA. On the way they participated in a Willis’s Walkabout through Kakadu which inspired Lindsay to research the potential of the Jatbula Track Walk.
In April 2017 we learned with sadness that Lindsay had been diagnosed with Mesothelioma, an unforgiving form of lung cancer with a very poor prognosis. Throughout his 2-year ordeal, the terrible emotional highs and lows and a major operation in February 2018 to remove a diseased lung Lindsay never burdened those around him. He was always cheerful and positive which made us feel much better.
Nor did he let his illness stop him. He downsized and built a new home in Singleton to set Lynne up. He carried on as best he could until the last few months and very reluctantly relinquished the role of Activity Officer in October, which he had undertaken with great imagination since 2015. Other fabulous bucket list trips taken during his illness included a trip to Mitchell Falls in the Wet and earlier this year a trip across Arnhem Land. In as late as April this year Lindsay led the first stage of the GNW from Sydney.
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Lindsay’s funeral service was planned by him in advance and held in the Col Fisher Reserve near the Hunter River close to his home. Well over one hundred and fifty people were in attendance of which sixty or so were Ramblers. We said goodbye to a great friend and companion, organizer, innovator, and inspiration to us all and remembered him for his kindness, energy, involvement, positive influence, and adventures. We will miss him and will think of him often on the track and around the campfire.
Bob Clifton
One of Lindsay’s great group shots taken at Kidmans Hut in Kosciusko NP
Abseiling in Serendipidy Canyon, on the Great North Walk with Lynne, and at the Dunn’s Swamp NavShield Event
Lindsay on Pantoney’s Crown, in Ormiston Gorge NT, and climbing Mt Royal
Canoeing on the Colo River, caving at Timor Caves and walking in the South West of Tasmania
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Exploring the Passes of Narrowneck, Blue Mountains NP – 20 to 21 July 2019
Walkers: Alan Thomas (leader), David Jack, Frank Kupina, and Wayne Vallance
Narrow Neck is the name given to the peninsular- like narrow protrusion that runs SW from Katoomba to Medlow Gap and separates the Jamieson and Megalong Valleys.
This trip was a follow-on from a backpack I led in the Wild Dog Mountains in July 2016, where we were unable to descend Carlon’s Head (too steep) and had a long unplanned back-track to reach our cars at Carlon’s Farm. Hence, I have been keen to explore possible alternatives to Carlon’s Head, such as Dunphy’s Pass and Harmil Ledge.
Redledge, which is much closer to Katoomba, was added because none of us had done this walk. We used Tom Brennan’s track notes that are available on Bushwalking NSW’s website. They are quite accurate with one significant mistake: once you reach the intersection of Corral Creek and the descent ridge, the track notes call for you to head NW, whereas his map, correctly, shows the route to be NE to pick up the Devil’s Hole track.
We had all arrived in Katoomba by about 5:00pm and settled into a cabin at Katoomba Falls Tourist Park for the night.
After an early (7:30am) start on a chilly Saturday morning, we left one car near where the Devil’s Hole track emerges onto Cliff Drive, and then parked the others at the carpark next to the locked gate on Narrowneck and set off walking along the fire trail to Redledge Pass.
Redledge Pass was used by miners to get to the old Glen Shale mine in the late 1800’s. The track to the right (W) leaves the Narrowneck fire-trail at GDA 475622 and is easy to miss. There is a more well-worn track opposite to the left that goes for about 100m and gives great views to Mt. Solitary and the Ruined Castle.
The Redledge track heads N for about 200m, then W (we overshot this turn and wound up at a dead end) for another 200m, then leads down a gully to Corral Creek. After crossing the creek, the track leads up onto a ledge where there is a logbook in a tin. It would appear from this that the pass is only used occasionally. We followed this ledge for about 200m, with great views across the Megalong Valley. The track then drops steeply, under a chock-stone, then swings N and leads down a ridge that closely follows Corral Creek.
The track then petered out. We followed a bearing down the ridge (about 700m) until it intersected the creek. According to Tom’s track notes, we should have encountered an “obvious cutting” at AGD465630 which is part of the old tram track. There was some dispute about whether the “cutting” we found was the right one, although we did find the remnants of an old chimney.
From here we headed NW through the bush, which is fairly thick and slow going in places, to cut the “Waterboard” road at about GDA 477646. It took a while to locate the Devil’s Hole track (we had to follow Devil’s Creek E to find it;( Frank was awarded a Red Frog lolly for finding it first).
Views of Megalong Valley from Ledge One for our first morning tea, on our way up.
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After a break for lunch, we followed Devil’s Hole track N and climbed back to where the car was on Cliff Drive, arriving about 2:00pm. This is a worthwhile G5 walk, offering great views over the Megalong Valley.
Having finished walking for the day, we headed to Blackheath for coffee, and then drove to Carlon’s Farm to camp for the night. I hadn’t anticipated the crowd! Being a weekend and school holidays as well lovely weather, there were campers galore. We set up camp in in carpark, got our fire going and enjoyed a pleasant night.
By 7:45am, we had breakfasted, packed up and headed off E along the Bellbird Ridge Fire Trail to find Dunphy’s Pass. Finding the Pass was easier than expected. We left the Mitchell Creek FT at GDA 454569 and climbed a ridge up to the bottom of Glenraphael Head (we climbed the ridge that is a bit N of the Head but the main ridge a bit to the S is also an option) then at the top of the gully, sidled across to have morning tea under an overhang that is right below the Head. The climb is steep, but reasonably open going.
After morning tea, we dropped down about 20m, then sidled and scrambled S, under the cliffs, trending upwards to get to a gully at GDA462568. We climbed a short way up this gully (quite dark and gloomy), then scrambled up onto a shale ledge to the right, for a second morning tea and great views across the valley and of the Wild Dog Mountains. This ledge is quite wide and provides comfortable walking. We followed it and saw the first signs that people had been there before – as we progressed this became more apparent and provided a pad to follow. The ledge led us around a nose and through the next gully. At the second gully, we started to wend our way upwards through light scrub and cut-grass. The last few metres to the top is quite thick scrub. We emerged at the top at GDA465588.
From here it was just a matter of getting across Glenraphael Swamp to reach the fire-trail that runs from Tarros Ladders to the locked gate at Katoomba. It’s only about 300m, but unable to find a track, we had to bush bash our way through, which was slow going. We reached the road (GDA 470569) at 11:30am.
After yet another morning tea, we followed the fire trail SW, descending via Tarros Ladders, then across the ridge track over Mt. Debert (great views including to Warragamba Dam), and dropping down to Medlow Gap for lunch. From here it was a brisk 8km walk along the fire trail back to the cars, arriving at about 3:15pm.
In summary its plain to see why Dunphy’s Pass is only used very rarely. It is a hard walk (and would be a really hard with a full pack), and a big climb, that takes a good 3.5 hours from Carlon’s Farm to the Narrowneck Fire trail. The route via the Medlow Gap and Tarros Ladders is much easier and more scenic. Note that as you can see from the photo, the start from the top would be hard to find without a GPS.
Report by Alan Thomas. GPS positions courtesy of David Jack.
Vale Maureen Grealy – 1947 to 2019
It is with great sadness that we report that our new friend Maureen Grealy died in hospital 28 August 2019 after suffering a serious stroke at her home. Maureen joined our Club in March 2018 as an accomplished walker having just completed the ‘Camino de Santiago’ in Spain. Maureen embraced our Club enthusiastically and in a short space of time was organising walks for our program.
Several Club members attended the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Newcastle West, which was full to its capacity with her many friends and associates. She was a woman of many and varied interests - volunteering with the Mission to Seafarers, Newcastle, a keen participant with the Newy Parkrun, and belonged to several embroidering groups – just to name a few.
Her son John, and daughters Christine and Belinda gave insights to their mother’s very active and interesting life. It is a shame that we did not have more time to enjoy her wonderful company and to get to know her better.
Our condolences and best wishes have been offered to her family.
Newcastle Ramblers Bushwalking Club – July 2019
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Johnsons Beach Track and River Mouth Track – 27 July 2019
Walkers: Coral Young (leader), Bob Clifton, David Jack, Claudia De Giorgio, Alan Thomas, Barry Williams, Jennifer Richards, Dawn Mahoney, Adrian Iakin
The Johnsons Beach Track is one of the favourites of the Club. In very pleasant weather we checked out Johnson Hill before descending to Johnsons Beach for morning tea.
We retraced our route to the cars and drove to the track head of the River Mouth Track after crossing on the 12.30pm Bombah Point Ferry. The River Mouth Track heads roughly SW for 5km through dry sclerophyll country to the junction of the Myall River and the Bombah Broadwater. We arrived at this most delightful camping location for a late lunch, an hour later.
Features of the walks were the outstanding large trees we spotted. Just another great day out in the Myall Lakes National Park. Thanks, Coral, for organising.
Note by Bob Clifton Photos by Bob and Claudia
Our first stop was on top of Johnsons Hill for views north into Violet Hill Passage and to read a bit of history. A plaque displayed a photograph of the Johnson’s farm which had been located on the shoreline below to the north.
One of many spectacular trees encountered. A typical serene scene of Boolambayte Lake from our morning tea spot on Johnsons Beach.
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Pearl Beach to Patonga – 20 July 2019
Walkers: Glenn Bird (leader) and 10 walkers
Returning to Patonga in the afternoon after a great walk.
A nice shot of the walking group along the track to Pearl Beach
Hornsby to Galston Gorge, Great North Walk – 28 July 2019
Walkers: Dawn Mahony (leader) and 11 walkers
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Stockrington Conservation Area – 31 July 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (Leader) and six Ramblers
A bit of an exploratory walk in the northern part of the SCA. This is an old coal mining area and there are many relics. It is also a long-established 4WD and motor bike area, and the signs of this recent history are very visible.
It was lovely open forest, although with a bit of Lantana in the gullies. The quarry has been partially rehabilitated and was filled with wattles almost in full flower. The rain last night had left everything fresh and clean, but kept away for our walk today
Note and photos by David
The former mine site of Stockrington Colliery has been rehabilitated and incorporated into the SCA - A significant wetland has been created and the former explosive magazines have been retained.
Lower Spring Creek (Down Stream from the Horse Run), Wollemi NP – 8 August 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (Leader),
We have been to the Horse Run many times. Each time we come over the saddle and down to Spring Creek, then turn right. I have wondered for a long time what was downstream.
Today, we went downstream. It was a rocky and stick-ey creek, reflecting the fact that it had not had any water flowing for probably years. Some interesting rock formations too.
After lunch it was time to return. The creek bed, while interesting the first time, was not that interesting that it needed viewing twice. So, we decided to climb to Jerry's Plains Ridge on the northern side and follow that back to the saddle. This turned out to be a bit more of a challenge than we had expected. 350m climb up a steep,
Newcastle Ramblers Bushwalking Club – July 2019
Page 11 rocky slope with lots of loose dirt and leaf litter. And by this time the westerly wind had picked up, so at the top it was also cold!
There were quite a few interesting rock formations, and some great views up Spring Creek towards the Horse Run. A track along the ridge was quite distinct most of the way and got us back the cars exactly at the planned time.
There were many interesting rock formations on the climb to the ridge to the north
On the way home, we stopped to look at the reconstructed outbuildings of the Wambo Homestead which is located a few kilometres away on mine property.
Bagnall Creek and Surrounds, Yengo NP – 10 August 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (leader), Bob Clifton, Lois Simpson, Dawn Mahony
The strong wind and dry conditions at Yengo made a campfire impossible so we voted to call off the overnight camp after a lovely full day of walking.
All thoughts of a pleasant evening around a warm campfire blew away as we stepped out of the cars at the end of Quart Pot Fire Trail. A cold, bleak westerly meant "warm" was not going to be a good description, especially perched on an exposed ridge.
Nevertheless, four of us set off in search of an Aboriginal site which a Ranger had told us about. Recent burning off along the ridge lines meant it was quite easy to walk, and to look for caves - but blackening - the others would not pose for me with their black bottoms on white pants!
Afternoon tea in the bush finished off a delightful bushwalking day. There were some quite interesting overhangs and erosion patterns in the rocks before we eventually found the cave above the gate, as we Newcastle Ramblers Bushwalking Club – July 2019
Page 12 had been told. After lunch at the cave, we clambered up to the top of the ridge for a pleasant stroll back to the cars on the black ground with light brown leaves swirled around by the wind.
Futility best described our search for a campsite. We thought we had found a spot on the southern side of the ridge away from the westerly, when the wind swung around to the south, then the south-east, then the south- west, then west, then.....
Driving further down the fire trail proved impossible with a tree across the road. We were fortunate we weren't already past it and unable to get out. We parked and did walk down the road to a creek which we followed downstream to its junction with Bagnalls Creek - a creek in name only! This little valley was quite green, with mosses, ferns and other plants, in contrast to the dry and sandy top of the ridge.
Open ridge walking through blackened vegetation. We found an uncommon Yellow Passion Flower (Passiflora herbertiana) in the creek gully. Some rested whilst others navigated in Bagnalls Creek
Report by David Morrison Photos by David and Dawn
Lake Macquarie Rogaine – 10 August 2019
Walkers: Nick Searl and nine Ramblers
What a wonderful day we had at the Rogaine at Mulbring today walking up to the Mt Sugarloaf area. Thank you, Nick and Mary, for being very patient with my slow uphill walking/staggering. I am exhausted, but I can still move my phone finger. It was cool and very windy on a few exposed spurs. We managed to get back just in time. Fun??? was had by all.
Note by Jenni Kauter
The Rambler representatives ready to go. Nick and Mary make it to one of the stations in very windy conditions.
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Quorrobolong Bike Ride – 10 August 2019
Bike Riders: Arthur Radford (leader) and eight riders
Somewhat wind-swept bike riders line up on today's Quorrobolong ride - a great trip.
Pindar Cave, Brisbane Water NP - 17 August 2019
Walkers: Alan Thomas (leader) and 15 Ramblers
After a train ride down to Woy Woy, we caught another train which dropped us off at Wondabyne. After a quick 'pre-walk talk' we headed up the hill. We followed a part of the Great North Walk for a while, then turned towards Pindar Cave and Pindar Falls where we had lunch. The return journey seemed to go quickly as we were all doing a good pace. There was a bit of a wait for our train and most of us were lying on the grass enjoying the sunshine. All up about 13 km.
Thanks, Alan, for hosting today's walk
Note by Jackie Mann
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Sunset on Burragurra, Yengo NP – 21 to 22 August 2019
Walkers: Bob Clifton (leader), Malcolm Mills, Ingrid Waeger, Neil Dwyer and Therese McCarthy
We met at 9.00am in Wollombi for a quick coffee before heading along Yengo Creek Road to the start of the Boree Track. The track was in pretty good condition as far as the Yango Track turnoff, but beyond it deteriorated into a serious four wheel drive experience – it has deteriorated since this time last year. Never the less we had no trouble and were parked at the intersection of a prominent track west into a Boree Creek property for our morning tea. We were ready to navigate off track in an easterly for 2km along a ridge to an Aboriginal engraving site, which I had not visited previously. Such sites can be hard to locate and we checked out many nearby locations before finding a distinctive water hole (with some water). Engraving sites are often associated with a water hole and axe/spear grinding grooves. Success, nearby we found the four kangaroos site, considered to be a male initiation site. Below the exposed sandstone shelf we located a small overhang which contained a styalised ‘Sun’.
We retraced our tracks to the parked cars for a delayed lunch - we had spent a lot of time trying to find the kangaroos. We drove a further 4km south to the Burragurra parking location to donn packs and do the easy backpack to our planned campsite downhill about 1 km on the bank of a re-entrant to Little Boree Creek. It was pleasing to note that we found Bright flowering Wattles lit up the adequate spring water in the re-entrant despite the dry spell. surrounds of our camp site
At about 4.00pm we headed up onto the huge rock shelf of the significant spiritual Burragurra Aboriginal site. Engravings were more clearly visible bathed in evening light and the sourounding bushland contained beautiful flowering shrubs. We spent some time seeking out the engravings and enjoying the outlook to Mt Yengo before walking south along the ridge line to locate other features and engravings. Back in camp we were sheltered from the stiff southerly wind we had experienced above on the ridge and enjoyed our campfire and interesting conversations.
The next day we packed and returned to the cars, on the way detouring 400m downstream to locate the large camp cave many of us have camped in over the years. Alas, it is almost impossible to see any of the ochre drawing that I remember and have photos of from years ago.
Our next stop was Frying Pan Rock located just off the Boree Track about 6km further south. Another huge expanse of sandstone facing Mt Yango which contains a multitude of engravings - mostly animals, weapons and mythical figures. After morning tea it was time to go exploring again and relocate an overhang located 500m off the Boree Track which we had visited for the first time last year. It contains many left hands stencils. Whilst in the vicinity we looked out for engravings which have been mentioned to me, but to no avail.
We headed for home, but not before calling in to see the ‘Nine Dancing Men’ engraving site and then on to Wollombi by 4.00pm for refreshments.
The Boree Track with its Aborginal heritage and beautiful sandstone country landscape and vegetation is a place to return to time and again.
Report by Bob Clifton
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Therese, Malcolm and Neil and Ingrid on Burragurra at sunset over Mount Yengo. Our group in the nearby camp cave the next day on the way back to the cars.
Just a few of the amazing engravings and waterholes on Burragurra, accentuated in the evening light
Neil surveys the extensive rock platform of ‘Frying Pan Rock’
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Just a few of the engravings of ‘Flying Pan Rock’ – weapons, kangoroos, and figures
The rock platform with the ‘Four Kangaroos’ and below the overhang containing an image of a Sun? Nearby we found a waterhole with water, even though it was very dry elsewhere
Landcare Morning at Koorangang Wetland, Ash Island – 23 August 2019
Walkers: Bob Clifton (leader) and twenty Ramblers and Landcarers
About ten Ramblers joined with members of the Obleisk HiIl/Arcadia Park and Morgan Street Landcarers to visit Kooragang Wetlands on Ash Island. All up there were twenty of us arriving at the Schoolmasters Cottage by 9.00am to be welcomed by Gavin Farley, Peggy Svoboda and Elizabeth Burton (volunteer at the Wetlands and a member of our Club). The weather was perfect for such a visit.
We had an interesting morning mapped out for us which included discussions on Indiginous and European history, the timber cutting era, the farming era, the industrial era, and then since 1993 when the Kooragang Wetland Rehabilitation Project was launched. We walked the mangrove boardwalk to view the mangrove and salt marsh interaction, visited the native plant nursery, and followed the Scotts Point Restored Rainforest Walk. We finished up for lunch at the delightful Riverside Picnic area overlooking the north arm of the Hunter River.
The weather was perfect for the occasion and we appreciated the efforts of Gavin, Peggy and Elizabeth.
Report and photos by Bob Clifton
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The School Masters Cottage has been beautifully restored and is now used for offices and as a resource centre. Our group is learning from Peggy about the intertidal zone and changes occuring as a result of climate change and sea level rise.
Mystery Peak, Tomaree NP, Port Stephens – 3 August 2019
Leader: Pamela Gallagher and 19 walkers
Morning tea on Mystery Mountain looking east to Fingal Bay. David, Jenni, Malcolm and Ingrid amongst the Gymea Lilies of Mystery Peak
A mystery walk to an unknown peak …… that was our mission today. Nineteen eager walkers rolled up at the Gallagher's house, with quite a few new faces. We headed of into the bush and followed a mixture of trails which were mostly sandy, even the uphills were sandy and that was tough! Then we went bush, walking through thick growth which led us to the base of Mystery Peak. Halfway up the climb a diamond python was spotted sunning himself (or herself) and wasn't too fazed as we passed by.
Morning tea was at the top of the peak with great views of both the coastline and over Port Stephens and beyond. We then backtracked through the scrub and back onto a sandy 4WD track which climbed up steeply for a good while. From there we made our way back into civilisation and the venue for lunch overlooking Port Stephens. With full tummies, we walked along the foreshore and back to the Gallaghers. All up ten kilometres.
Thanks, so much for organising today's walk, Pamela.
Note by Jenni Kauter
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Great North Walk (Thornleigh to Hornsby) - 25 August 2019
Walkers: Jackie Mann (leader) and 9 Ramblers
Eight Ramblers caught the train down to Hornsby, then a quick change of train to Thornleigh where Helen and Mary were waiting. After a short walk through the 'burbs, we found ourselves in the bush. We took a quick walk off the main track to see the Zig Zag railway - we actually didn't see too much of a railway, but more of a monument so we headed back down the hill to return to the main track. Just before lunch, we took another detour to see the Blackfellow Head engravings - we all agreed it was disappointing and wouldn't recommend the detour. Having crossed the Fishponds, it was a lot of up and more up towards Hornsby. A good day out with good weather and good company.
Report and photos by Jackie
The Running Stream Creek Incident – 11 September 2019
Walkers: Nick Searl (leader), Alan Thomas, Frank Kupina and Wayne Valance
Nick’s G6 exploratory walk from the Coorongooba Campground took Alan, Frank and Wayne up Coorongooba and Running Stream Creeks to locate a known pass through the cliff lines of Running Stream Creek to the plateau 250 metres above and then on towards Gospers Mountain. Almost at the top of the pass Alan fell some 15 metres sustaining injuries to his back and ribs which required his evacuation. The Club PLB was activated and Alan was eventually air lifted from the site to hospital. Nick and the others walked out the next day.
It is pleasing to note that the groups experience and first aid training paid off in dealing with the immediate situation prior to paramedics arriving on the scene several hours later. Nicks detailed walks planning and documentation proved invaluable in guiding the rescue personnel and operation. We thank the paramedics and helicopter crews involved, and the police for their very professional assistance and communication with our Club contacts keeping us informed as the rescue unfolded.
Alan after his initial few days in hospital has recovered well and is back walking – he has been very lucky.
The only media coverage of the substantial rescue operation appeared in the Lithgow Mercury newspaper and appears below.
Note by Bob Clifton
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Barraba Spur, Watagan NP – 1 September 2019
Three of us set off for the big climb up to the ridge top today, in the most beautiful weather for walking. Yesterday's rain had left everything fresh and clean, and the bush, especially the grass trees, were really alive. We walked out to the end of the peninsula for views up and down Congewai Valley, then up to the top. The old building is still standing, although its days may be numbered. Lunch looking out over the valley, discussing what was Ellalong, Paxton and Millfield. Commiserations to Jackie who stayed home with a cold.
Note by David Morrison
The view over Cudgewai Valley from the morning tea spot on Barraba Spur – the country is looking very dry
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The ridge along Barraba Spur and the old timber cutters hut referred to
Rocky Ponds, Brisbane Waters NP - 21 September 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (leader) and 5 walkers
Having met up at Belmont Maccas, two vehicles travelled down to the Central Coast. A smaller group set off up a gravel road in the Brisbane Waters National Park. The wildflowers were stunning, with many varieties on show. David also found several rock carvings. We turned onto a foot track which led us down towards several waterfalls. At lunch we met up with some members of the NPA Central Coast group. The return trip back to the vehicles was humid at times, and the final downhill was most welcome. Many thanks to David for organising today's walk. A total of 13 kilometres.
Note and photos by Jackie Mann
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Pilchers Chasm - 14 September 2019
Walkers: Karl Cwach (leader) and 13 walkers
Having met up at Hexham Maccas, a convoy of five vehicles made their way near Dungog, with the last few kilometres on gravel road. The first section was all uphill on a property track, passing some old shacks and some nice views on offer. There was a lot of rock hopping as we made our way through a series of chasms. A great day out on the trails. This walk was graded as G5 because of the terrain and was about 6km in length.
Many thanks to Carl for organising a good walk. Note by Jenni Kauter
Karl leads the way into Pilchers Chasm
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Green’s Run, Mangrove Creek – 29 September 2019
Walkers: David Morrison (leader) and six Ramblers
Green's Run is a grassy valley whose creek runs into Mangrove Creek. This was first visited 20 years ago, and a couple of mysterious dots marked on the map from then had piqued the curiosity. We had made a navigation error a couple of years ago on a revisit, so this was the day to get there again.
Seven of us set off down the Dubbo Gully Road to Mangrove Creek then followed the creek. The countryside was fairly open and grassy, pleasant walking actually. Well, until we hit the blackberry - must tell Ingrid - it is closer than Nundle! We managed to get through the blackberry, and avoided the navigation error, to carry on along the creek bank. Some of it was open, but other parts were bushy and it was fairly tiring to push through it all.
Eventually we made it to Green's Run to see a new house had been built on the other side of the creek, and one being built on a nearby knoll. The valley looked lovely and green, with a lot of debris up the valley sides - but more on that later.... The first dot on my map turned out to be a platform where there had once been a hut, complete with an old sandstone chimney.
The second one proved more elusive. In the 20 years since the first visit, a lot of scrub had grown up meaning that features visible then were not visible now. I had suspected it was a cave, and we bashed our way through the scrub along a rock ledge without finding anything. In the end, all we found was a single axe groove.
A passing fellow told us that there had been a huge amount of rain a fortnight ago, and the whole valley had filled up. From the debris, it looked as though the water may have been 10m deep.
On the way back, we set off down the middle of Mangrove Creek. In the end, all we found was a single axe groove.
On the way back, we set off down the middle of Mangrove Creek, a refreshing experience apart from the quicksand and occasional deep pools to be crossed. Eventually we climbed out, after passing most of the scrubby part, and made our way back along the bank. A curious flat area near the end turned out to be a platform for
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Page 23 some sort of building, there were lots of stones around, some arranged in straight lines in rectangular shape.
The day ended with the climb back up the hill to the cars. And we found the Mangrove Mountain shop was shut so no ice creams could be had. All up seven hours of walking
Report and photos by David.
Beginners Backpack at Drummers Flat, Goulburn River NP – 27 to 29 September 2019
Walkers: Angela Begg (leader) and 8 Ramblers
Angela had organised a beginner’s backpack near the Goulburn River. Three vehicles with nine Ramblers met up at Denman and made a small convoy to a national park near the Goulburn River. Backpacks were donned and we were off to find tonight's camp where we agreed to camp on a hill above the river. On Saturday morning we headed out for the day following the river and exploring many overhangs and natural arches. We also saw three goannas. On Saturday afternoon we all agreed to shift from the camp on the hill down to the sandy riverbed. This was a great decision as there was a lot of prickly pear and catheads everywhere. On Sunday morning five of the group set out early for one more walk along a nearby escarpment, and about an hour later we heard a clear coo-ee, so one must return in similar fashion - the valley had good acoustics! The walk back to the vehicles took about an hour. After a stop at Denman for lunch we headed home. A good weekend ……. thanks Angela. Report and photos by Jackie Mann
Panorama of the camping location by Claudia De Giorgio
Along the way the group inspects what looks like an old cellar of an earlier homestead. Attractive sandstone clifflines are a feature of the riverside walking
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Redhead Beach Twilight Walk – 9 October 2019
Walkers: Sue Holt (leader), Glenn Bird, Peter and Grace Farley, Jennifer Richards, Bob Clifton, Shayne and Roz Kerr and Anne Scott.
Sue led the first twilight walk of the season to the Redhead walkway and tracks behind th eforedunes of the Redhead Beach. What a great spot this is and it was my first vistit.We walked south on the boardwalks past the ‘Duck Pond’, through regrowth Teatree Thickets to the banks of Third Creek, before walking north along the beach front in very strong southery wind conditions. We ducked back into the protection of the dunes and thickets and returned past the ‘Pond’ and to our parked cars. By now at 7.00pm it was time to adjourne to the Malaysian Restaurant across the road where Wayne joined us for a great Thai meal.
Thanks Sue for a well planned 1.5 hour walk
Report and photos by Bob Clifton
Anne, Roz, Sue, Peter and Jennifer walk beside the Third Creek Lagoon towards Redhead Beach. A view of the dunal system along Third Creek and Melaleucas in the ‘Duck Pond’
Stockton Bridge Twilight Walk – 15 October 2019
Walkers: Bob Clifton (leader) and 13 walkers
It was a beautiful evening, clear skies, gentle breeze and no mosquitoes. We met up at 5.30pm below the Stockton Bridge on its western side to climb the steps to the centre pedestrian walkway. Passing traffic was continuous as the views over Newcastle opened up. On reaching the Stockton side we ducked under the bridge to walk out onto the Ramsar listed migratory bird salt marsh flats. It was too early in the year for the main arrival of birds, however there were a few species in the distance and we could see a recently installed floating roosting raft.
One of the beautiful We headed over to the Stockton Cemetery to review a few graves and for Grace to murals painted on the seek out that of her great grandmother intered in the CofE section of the cemetery. east side bridge footings At the rear of the cemetery we found a sheltered location for our dinner, before returning the way we had come by about 7.30pm. Bridge traffic was much dimished and with dusk the lights of Newcaslte appeared. Thanks everyone – top little walk of about 5km and two hours duration.
Report and photos by Bob Clifton
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‘It’s All About the Orchids’ on Mt Royal – 19 October 2019
Walkers: Barry Williams (leader), Jennifer Richards, Bob Clifton, David Morrison, Dani and Graham Pritchard, Robert Gascoigne, Caroline Hargreaves, and Tom Cordingly
Yet another visit to the best day walk in the Hunter Valley. Nine of us ended up at the bottom of Mt Royal to admire the orchids - the only reason for coming according to Barry! Then around the bottom to Sneaky Pinch and up we go. It was a lovely day for climbing, with a fairly strong westerly wind keeping us relatively cool while at the same time threatening to blow us over the side. We did all the usual Mt Royal things, scrambling along the narrow ridge, hanging on for dear life to the edge of the rocks, bashing our way through the scrub from half-hidden rock to half-hidden rock, wondering where the hell we were, and so on. But eventually we found the grass trees, and not much further on the trig. It was actually quite hot out on the open grass, so we had lunch amongst the trees before starting the steep descent.
We started the walk at 9:30 am and got back to the cars about 3pm – we estimated the length of the walk was 6km. Barry inspects the Mt Royal logbook located beneath the cairn of the trig point Report by David Morrison and photos by both David and Bob
Flowering Orange Blossom and Dagger Orchids hung perfusely from trees all the way to the top of the mountain. In the grassland sections Donkey Orchids were on display.
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As we climbed and crossed the ridgeline the terrain and vegetation changes and is amazing. Robert poses beneath the patch of mature Grass Trees near the summit.
We gathered at the trig point to inspect the log book placed there in 2003. Entries by the Ramblers on their many visits are a feature and reflect the history of our Club. The entry shown here is that of a visit on 16 April 2008 by Bob Clifton, Jim Doran, Royce Hirning, and Chris Grice. More recently Frank Kupina has been responsible for rescueing the water damaged logbook, recording the entries, and rehousing it more securely in a waterproof tube placed beneath the cairn. David has also photographed the entries for our archives.
Over lunch nearby we discussed a history and fate of Ludwig Leichhardt who visited the Mt Royal area in the 1840s. Martin Fallding of Callicoma Hill has researched and documented the original letters and diaries of Leichhardt and has been able to trace his most likely route of discovery through the mountains. David read exerpts as we ate.
An Experience with the Onset of Heat Exhaustion - Bruce Derkenne
This frightening and unexpected experience came out of the blue and could happen to anyone.
• I was carrying my regular 15kg pack, including 3lts water, on the first day of a 4-day backpack.
• The morning was cold, about 8 degrees at 6am when we woke.
• We started walking at 8.15am and the temperature was about 20 degrees by then.
• The first half of the 1st day was 2km of undulating track then 3 short consecutive ascents and descents of about 100m elevation each over about 2kms.
• Temperature increased quickly to the low 30’s and humidity was increasing also.
• I completed the first ascent with usual vigour and recuperation.
• On the second ascent I found my legs getting weaker and recuperation after 20 to 40m walking bursts was not forthcoming.
• The feelings of nausea began. I became concerned and told Peter I’m not feeling well but will press on steadily as I’d never experienced these feelings before. Suggestions that I may have caught a bug were mentioned but I didn’t think so.
• On the 3rd ascent I found it more difficult to recuperate after walking about 20 m each time but pressed on to get over the hill. The temperature was gradually increasing, and we were walking on a track in direct sun most of this way. I had drunk about 1L of water so far since starting.
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• My nausea and feeling weak got more pronounced and we headed for shade and a rest on a cool creek bed on Peter’s advice. Nausea calmed quickly after a cool wet towel was wrapped around my head by Tim. Amanda gave me some of her Sports Hydrolite powder and I drank about 1L of water slowly over 30 minutes. It was now about 10.30am and we had walked about 8kms.
• We stayed settled for about 2 hours and by this time I was feeling almost 100%.
• The decision to camp nearby in a cooler shady area and reassess in the morning was decided by Peter and the group.
• Lack of water in the creek was noted and it was considered a risk to proceed and the predicted high day temperatures were also considered.
• Next morning the group decided to return to the start at Yuledale camp and go up to the higher and cooler Mooraback campground.
• We started our return walk at 6.30am in cooler temperatures and I had no issues completing the return walk keeping up with the other walkers and with minimal fatigue.
• Camp continued without further incident and I felt 100%.
• In hindsight I may have started the walk slightly under hydrated and I had never walked carrying a 15kg backpack in that temperature and humidity before. I should have also used my Hydrolite tablets before the walk. I have not done any multi day back packs this year but have done so many times in the past and am definitely not at my previous fitness of 12 months ago, but not far off.
• Day temperatures were not expected to be as high as those encountered on the first day and availability of water in the creek was uncertain but considered by Peter with advice from the local NPWS ranger.
• I did climb Mt Gower on Lord Howe Island in April this year without a problem.
A Week of Walking in the Grampians – 14 to 20 October 2019
Walkers: Jenni Kauter (leader) and 26 Ramblers and friends.
Day 1 – Everyone arrived and Happy Hour was enjoyed around the campfire
Day 2 - Due to so many walkers, there were two walks on offer, and I did the Pinnacles which was 13km and had a lot of climbing and downhill (582m ascent). The rock formations were spectacular as were the waterfalls.
Day 3 - It was an overcast morning, but we had a full agenda for the day. First off was a visit to the Brambuk Cultural Centre, then we headed off to our first hiking destination .... Mackenzie Falls. We only planned to walk to the bottom of the waterfall, but, as Ramblers do, we pushed on to the end of the track - thanks to Peter G for going back and organising the car shuffle. We returned back to the carpark and did another short walk of 3km taking in several more lookouts.
Next stop was Reid’s Lookout and the Balconies. Wow, what a view from there! The convoy then returned to base where we now have about three hours before dinner at a local pub. It will be a full day!
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Ingrid, Malcolm and Jackie at McKenzie Falls. Morning Tea at Turret Falls along the Grand Canyon/Pinnacle Walk – Jackie, Pamela and Peter. The start of the Pinnacle Walk at Venus Bath – Joe, John, Pamela,Sue,Pauline, Malcolm,Dawn, Peter, Jackie and Kate.
Views along the Mt Stapleton Loop Walk. Arthur, Fiona and Jenni were well prepared for the weather conditions on the Piccanini Walk
Group shot at the top of the Picannini and dinner together on the last night
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Sedges along the McKenzie River and wild flowers everywhere were a feature Photos by Kate Rados
Emus were a feature in the surrounds of the Grampians
Day 4 - We woke up to rain and strong winds, so the planned walks were cancelled. Everyone did their own thing: going for a drive to Stawell, watching glass blowing, wine tasting, catching up on sleep, or taking in the local shops.
In the afternoon, I went for a quick walk (by myself, after notifying other Ramblers where I was heading and how long for) up the hill behind town to stretch my legs. A BBQ was planned for this evening.
Day 5 -We went north along a dirt road for 40min, seeing several emus and other wildlife. Having arrived at Mt Zero carpark, we headed off along the track, climbing up a rock platform, passing bird rock, and then onto Mt Stapylton where there were spectacular views. We then backtracked a short way before turning into a track which obviously wasn’t used often as some of the sections were quite overgrown. Lunch was on a rocky outcrop, then another 5km back to the cars. After a quick look at the aboriginal rock art at Mt Hollow carpark, we headed ‘home’.
Day 6 - Yet another jam-packed day. We headed 90km south to Dunkeld where we met up with other Ramblers at a coffee shop, then onto a local country market. Following this we headed a little out of town and climbed the Picannini, a smaller mountain between Mt Abrupt and Mt Sturgeon. Returning ‘home’ to Halls Gap, Jenni, Dawn and myself climbed Chataqua Peak which overlies the town - many coo-ees were called from the mountain top. A great finish to a great week.
Report by Jackie Mann. Photos by Jenni, Jackie and Kate
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Yacaaba Headland Circuit – 9 November 2019
Walkers: Frank Kupina (leader), Bob Clifton, Alan Thomas, Louise Wilkinson, Tom Cordingly
YACAABA was sacred to the local Aboriginal tribe the Worimi. The mystical headland supplied bountiful food, shelter from all weather and a lookout. The meaning of Yacaaba is not certain but most likely “Place of Lookout’. Yacaaba was included as part of the Myall Lakes National Park in 1980.
It was a beautiful cool day for walking with clear blue skies and an offshore wind pushing the way up north smoke haze out to sea. Alan drove Bob and me from our meeting place, Hexham McDonalds, to Jimmys beach car park where we met up with Louise. We set out walking a few minutes before 9.00am and hadn’t gone far when Tom turned up to join us. After walking through the caravan park and along a bush track for a short distance we arrived at the car park where there is access to Bennetts Beach. Upon reaching the crest of ‘Baldy’ the large sand hill we encountered a stunning panoramic view of the ocean with Yacaaba to our right and Cabbage Tree and Broughton Islands before us. Some of us caught sight of a Dolphin breaching the waves close to the shoreline.
The stunning views south from the top of Yacaaba and Alan and Tom returning along Jimmys Beach
After a long walk along Bennetts Beach we stopped for a drink break before climbing up to the trig point on top of Yacaaba Headland. The track starts off relatively flat then it is a steep climb over boulders and tree roots to the summit. Fingle Bay light house stood out in the distance and before us was a beautiful stand of young grass trees. After taking in the fantastic views we settled down for morning tea. On the way down the mountain we encountered quite a few people making their way up. Near the bottom we deviated onto a track which, in a short distance, meets up with the track going across from Bennetts Beach to the Port Stephens side and Jimmys Beach. Due to the strong sea breeze there were some white caps on the surface of the water but that didn’t deter the Dolphin watching boat with its load of tourist checking out the Dolphins frolicking near the boat. After a long walk along Jimmys Beach we arrived back at the cars at 12.10pm in time for lunch and a return drive home. A great day was had by all.
Report by Frank Kupina
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