Differences

This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.

--- 193402 [2014/06/23 19:33] – sbw
+++ 193402 [2014/07/07 15:10] – sbw
@@ Line 31: / Line 31: @@
 Motoring back from Kosciuszko the sun glinted on the granite slabs of a range of true mountains; then we rushed through Michelago and saw them no more. But they remained in my mind, and, after several abortive efforts I did at last find myself, one grey, rainy morning, tramping over the green paddocks and rabbit-proof fences between Michelago Station and the Tindery Range [Tinderry Range]. The drifting mists swept backwards and forwards and between whiles revealed the rocky tops 3000 feet above the valley. It was the last view we were to have of them for two days.
-Near the foot of the col between the two highest summits we reached the Michelago Creek and the last farm house. We felt certain we were successfully looking like part of the landscape when some eagle-eyed or fox-nosed dogs barked our betrayal to their owner, and there was nothing for it but to step forth boldly into the open and meet him as he came hurrying dawn to see what he could do to help us. My companion, who had worn only bloomers under the skirt she had dis- carded an account of the rain, stayed discreetly in the background and left me to do the interviewing with no better moral support than a pair of very ancient shorts which had never, even in their youth, possessed much beauty, and had lost whatever beauty they did possess in the Jounima scrub. During the interview I was acutely conscious of Mouldy's remark concerning these same shorts when they were in the heyday of their life, "Why Judge! They are nearly as good as SOMR I once made for myself1" However, Mr. Byrnes did not seem to notice anything wrong with my attire and treated me with as much kindness as one usually reoeives from country people.
+Near the foot of the col between the two highest summits we reached the Michelago Creek and the last farm house. We felt certain we were successfully looking like part of the landscape when some eagle-eyed or fox-nosed dogs barked our betrayal to their owner, and there was nothing for it but to step forth boldly into the open and meet him as he came hurrying down to see what he could do to help us. My companion, who had worn only bloomers under the skirt she had discarded on account of the rain, stayed discreetly in the background and left me to do the interviewing with no better moral support than a pair of very ancient shorts which had never, even in their youth, possessed much beauty, and had lost whatever beauty they did possess in the Jounima [Jounama] scrub. During the interview I was acutely conscious of Mouldy's remark concerning these same shorts when they were in the heyday of their life, "Why Judge! They are nearly as good as some I once made for myself!" However, Mr Byrnes did not seem to notice anything wrong with my attire and treated me with as much kindness as one usually receives from country people.
-We pitched our tent a little further an where the green of the plains gave way to the bush of the slopes. Here we ate a second breakfast and watched the mist drop lower and lower on the heights above. I kept my eye on them the whole time, but there was only one opportunity for a compass-bearing.
+We pitched our tent a little further on where the green of the plains gave way to the bush of the slopes. Here we ate a second breakfast and watched the mist drop lower and lower on the heights above. I kept my eye on them the whole time, but there was only one opportunity for a compass bearing.
-We then started upwards, keeping to the right of the creek in accordance with Mr. Byrnes' directions. The lower slopes were barren of undergrowth and delightfully easy going, but as they steepehed they became covered with stones, rocks, undergrowth, and a general mix up of dead and living trees. It rained: on and off, and once or twice the sun attempted to come out, but nothing came of its good intentions. From the col we had no means of knowing just which direction to go. The parish map showed the range as approximately N.E. and S.W., but everyone acquainted with parish maps knows haw helpful they are. We struok up the hill on the left, and on the top felt more lost then ever, for the mist veiled everything. However, just then there was a small break and we saw a little rocky knob considerably above us and across the next valley. We did not know what it was, but I vowed that, anyhow, bag that I would, if I had to climb it in my stockinged feet. The rocks in these parts are covered with lichen and moss and were frightfully treacherous in the rain for rubber-soled boots, and that was the reason for the last part of the vow.
+We then started upwards, keeping to the right of the creek in accordance with Mr Byrnes' directions. The lower slopes were barren of undergrowth and delightfully easy going, but as they steepened they became covered with stones, rocks, undergrowth, and a general mix up of dead and living trees. It rained on and off, and once or twice the sun attempted to come out, but nothing came of its good intentions. From the col we had no means of knowing just which direction to go. The parish map showed the range as approximately N.E. and S.W., but everyone acquainted with parish maps knows how helpful they are. We struck up the hill on the left, and on the top felt more lost then ever, for the mist veiled everything. However, just then there was a small break and we saw a little rocky knob considerably above us and across the next valley. We did not know what it was, but I vowed that, anyhow, bag that I would, if I had to climb it in my stockinged feet. The rocks in these parts are covered with lichen and moss and were frightfully treacherous in the rain for rubber-soled boots, and that was the reason for the last part of the vow.
-Wet branches, wet undergrowth, slippery rocks, logs, trees, a tangle of plants, and eventually we struggled up between the boulders and scrub to the rocky top. Even in stockinged feet, I had one nasty slip on the greasy rocks. The mist was still over everything, and I could see nothing as I crawled up by hands rather than feet to the top, where to my surprise I found a cairn and trig sign. I had imagined there was only one cairn on the ridge and that onthe highest point, and this I felt certain was only a little rocky knob of no importance.
+Wet branches, wet undergrowth, slippery rocks, logs, trees, a tangle of plants, and eventually we struggled up between the boulders and scrub to the rocky top. Even in stockinged feet, I had one nasty slip on the greasy rocks. The mist was still over everything, and I could see nothing as I crawled up by hands rather than feet to the top, where to my surprise I found a cairn and trig sign. I had imagined there was only one cairn on the ridge and that on the highest point, and this I felt certain was only a little rocky knob of no importance.
-I rejoined my companion, who VAS much out of condition and therefore unable to tackle the final pinch, and then a marvellous thing happened. The sun shone through for perhaps a couple of minutes and the valley spread out below the angry clouds, a glory of emerald and gold amid deep sapphire hills, but more wonderful still, we found that we were higher than anything else around, and I realised joyfully that I had bagged the highest peak and had him safely in my rucksack!
+I rejoined my companion, who was much out of condition and therefore unable to tackle the final pinch, and then a marvellous thing happened. The sun shone through for perhaps a couple of minutes and the valley spread out below the angry clouds, a glory of emerald and gold amid deep sapphire hills, but more wonderful still, we found that we were higher than anything else around, and I realised joyfully that I had bagged the highest peak and had him safely in my rucksack!
-We struck down the face of the mountain as a variation from the route up, and we soon realised why I had seen granite slabs glistening in the sunlight. But that was not all. Between the slimy, slippery rocks was a tangle of undergrowth, loose stones, little precipices, dead trees rotting under the criss-cross living ones, and every conceivable Obstacle that nature could invent to show us the folly of the route we had chosen. And what was worse, the steep slopes did not give way to the easy ones until we were practically in camp.
+We struck down the face of the mountain as a variation from the route up, and we soon realised why I had seen granite slabs glistening in the sunlight. But that was not all. Between the slimy, slippery rocks was a tangle of undergrowth, loose stones, little precipices, dead trees rotting under the criss-cross living ones, and every conceivable obstacle that nature could invent to show us the folly of the route we had chosen. And what was worse, the steep slopes did not give way to the easy ones until we were practically in camp.
-It did not rain that night, but the next day it did, the less said of it, perhaps, the better. On the third day it cleared, but the treacherous rocks of the upper lands seemed to have lost some of their attractiveness to me even, let alone my companion. So we wnnt down to the Michelago gorge and the MurruMbidgee River, where the pointed native cypress-, the creamy marble rocks and the swift muddy river seemed altogether un-Australian, and I dreamed I was back amid the tall spruce forests and the glacier rivers of Canada.
+It did not rain that night, but the next day it did, the less said of it, perhaps, the better. On the third day it cleared, but the treacherous rocks of the upper lands seemed to have lost some of their attractiveness to me even, let alone my companion. So we went down to the Michelago Gorge and the Murrumbidgee River, where the pointed native cypress, the creamy marble rocks and the swift muddy river seemed altogether un-Australian, and I dreamed I was back amid the tall spruce forests and the glacier rivers of Canada.
 Marie B. Byles
-NOTHING
+===== Nothing =====
 by Barney
-I have been asked to contribute an article for this "Bushwalker" - why, Goodness only knaws4 - but when I asked what subject I should write on the reply was, after a moment's hesitation: "Ohl nothing." Hence the title.
+I have been asked to contribute an article for this "Bushwalker" - why, goodness only knows - but when I asked what subject I should write on the reply was, after a moment's hesitation: "Oh! nothing." Hence the title.
-"Nothing". I came home, retired to my couch, and gave the subject most serious consideration, and, considering, lying an my back and staring at the ceiling, there rose before me, as in a dream, memories and recollections of Club activities and personalities which, already in the short period or my membership of little more than two years, are passing into the limbo of forgotten things. "Verily", thought I, "the old order changeth and giveth place to new." gaw true, haw sad very often, and yet haw inevitable.
+"Nothing". I came home, retired to my couch, and gave the subject most serious consideration, and, considering, lying on my back and staring at the ceiling, there rose before me, as in a dream, memories and recollections of Club activities and personalities which, already in the short period or my membership of little more than two years, are passing into the limbo of forgotten things. "Verily", thought I, "the old order changeth and giveth place to new." How true, how sad very often, and yet how inevitable.
 Comparatively speaking I am a new member and still look with a certain amount of reverence upon those senior members who originally strove and worked, explored and dared, for the sake of the Club and the freedom which we enjoy today. And how many of them are left? Time, with his scythe, marches cynically an, caring naught for old prejudices, old likes and dislikes, and in his wake blows the wind of current thought and opinion, which leaves breathless and inarticulate those who were many but are now few.
-Faces floated before my eyes, mistily, phantastica4y; faces that smiled and laughed; faces that were sad. Yet in all those faces, whether laughing or sad, there dwelt a question -- an appeal: "Quo vadis"? Thither goest thou? Repeating the question, I wonderedl.
+Faces floated before my eyes, mistily, phantastically; faces that smiled and laughed; faces that were sad. Yet in all those faces, whether laughing or sad, there dwelt a question - an appeal: "Quo vadis"? Whither goest thou? Repeating the question, I wondered.
 Again before my eyes there rose the deeds of yesteryear - the happiness, the joy, the verve of life, and above all the general cameraderie which was so characteristic of the earlier days. The Reunions when all were present - sparkling campfires - spontaneous gaiety - laughter bubbling over - wit - joie de vivre - and good comradeship all round.
-Slowly the scene changed; faces appeared that were not there before; others vanished to return no more. Instead of just a sea of faces there showed many little groups of faces. The smiles were fewer, and as one group approached another, advertently or inadvertently, the latter receded with exceeding swift- nee. Caine a look of mute wonder on some - here and there of incredulity - and sometimes a slight sneerl And over all hung an air of expectancy, not of joy but of foreboding.,
+Slowly the scene changed; faces appeared that were not there before; others vanished to return no more. Instead of just a sea of faces there showed many little groups of faces. The smiles were fewer, and as one group approached another, advertently or inadvertently, the latter receded with exceeding swiftness. Came a look of mute wonder on some - here and there of incredulity - and sometimes a slight sneer! And over all hung an air of expectancy, not of joy but of foreboding.
 A sadness came upon me as though I were witnessing the last scene of a drama whose characters were about to fulfil a mournful destiny, when suddenly it seemed as if a light shone on the assembly, a light which at once illuminated and woke to sudden life all whom it touched - a light whose appeal was irresistible.
-My last impresaion was of a warm glow of good-fellowship which emanated from the happy and carefree band now mingling freely, one with another, and all at once a great shout rent the stillness - a shout - - -
+My last impression was of a warm glow of good-fellowship which emanated from the happy and carefree band now mingling freely, one with another, and all at once a great shout rent the stillness - a shout ...
-"Quarter to six, old man, and time to get up". Father stood at the door, and the sun streamed in upon me through the open window. I murmured sleepily and gazed unseeingly at --- NOTHING1
+"Quarter to six, old man, and time to get up". Father stood at the door, and the sun streamed in upon me through the open window. I murmured sleepily and gazed unseeingly at ... NOTHING!
-"THE LOG OF THE 'JOY'"
+===== The Log of the 'Joy' =====
-(Continued) H. Chardon.
+(Continued) H. Chardon. [Harold Chardon]
-Wednesday HEATI!! - As the sun rose the sky had that brassy look which always presages great heat. To-day was no exception.
+Wednesday - HEAT!!! - As the sun rose the sky had that brassy look which always presages great heat. Today was no exception.
 Up early, we paddled round taking photos and swimming in the pool in front of our camp till it was time we left on our voyage downstream.
@@ Line 80: / Line 80: @@
 At 10.30 we started and the rapids came thick and fast till we wondered whether it was worthwhile embarking at all. Lunch time found us an a sandy beach in the rather scanty shade of a wattle; drinking lime juice and gasping with the heat. The sand was so hot one could scarcely bear to set foot an it. Just as we were embarking again a breeze sprang up, making things bearable for our afternoon trip.
-More rapidst They continued right up till camping time (4 p.m.). During the day we had to negotiate 14 rapids, making a total of 40 up to date. We were absolutely done in when we at length unloaded "Joy" and made camp back of a sandy beach an the left hand bank of the river just below Bullaw Creek. My legs got pretty badly burned as, being stern paddler they get no protection. After resting up for a while Tom took the prospecting dish dawn to the river, and in the cool of the evening we paaned for gold, getting several specks of colour. Just at dusk a Lyre Bird on the rise behind our camp gave us a most wonderful exhibition of mimicry until we turned in (about 8 p.m.). Ducks were seen during the afternoon but too far for a shot.
+More rapids! They continued right up till camping time (4 pm). During the day we had to negotiate 14 rapids, making a total of 40 up to date. We were absolutely done in when we at length unloaded "Joy" and made camp back of a sandy beach an the left hand bank of the river just below Bullow Creek. My legs got pretty badly burned as, being stern paddler they get no protection. After resting up for a while Tom took the prospecting dish down to the river, and in the cool of the evening we panned for gold, getting several specks of colour. Just at dusk a Lyrebird on the rise behind our camp gave us a most wonderful exhibition of mimicry until we turned in (about 8 pm). Ducks were seen during the afternoon but too far for a shot.
-Thursday - up at 6 a.m., breakfast was soon under way, after which We wrote our diaries, this duty having been deferred from the previous day. Are were afloat at 9.55 and after passing our third rapid came to a fine long pool, right in a bend of the river. Further rapids followed, all of them small, till we came to another large pool. Fishing was decided on at this stage, so a spinner was let out aft with about 20 yds. of line. Ten minutes later we had our tea in the shape of two fine perch. This is the simplest fishing I've ever donet The fish catch themselves on artificial bait.
+Thursday - up at 6 am, breakfast was soon under way, after which we wrote our diaries, this duty having been deferred from the previous day. Are were afloat at 9.55 and after passing our third rapid came to a fine long pool, right in a bend of the river. Further rapids followed, all of them small, till we came to another large pool. Fishing was decided on at this stage, so a spinner was let out aft with about 20 yds. of line. Ten minutes later we had our tea in the shape of two fine perch. This is the simplest fishing I've ever done! The fish catch themselves on artificial bait.
-Another rapid and another pool, half way along which we stopped for our usual cold lunch, and as I write this we are lazing in the shade of a willow, smoking our pipes and swilling lime juice. The sun had been hot as my legs will testify, but a cool breeze is blowing and altogether the weather is perfect. The cliffs on either side of us are falling in height, and to-day we passed the point at which the older rock disappears and the sandstone makes its appearance right to water level.
+Another rapid and another pool, half way along which we stopped for our usual cold lunch, and as I write this we are lazing in the shade of a willow, smoking our pipes and swilling lime juice. The sun had been hot as my legs will testify, but a cool breeze is blowing and altogether the weather is perfect. The cliffs on either side of us are falling in height, and today we passed the point at which the older rock disappears and the sandstone makes its appearance right to water level.
-While waiting for the sun to do its worst before starting, I noticed some ducks downstream well out of gunshot. We debated whether or not we would go after them, and in the end decided that as our meat was running low I should go along on foot and get a shot in. This I did and winged one; Tom then brought the canoe and we dispatched it in fine style with another shot. 14 had been pretty bad with sunburn up till now, and this short spell in the blazing sun finished things. When we arrived back in camp I was in agony and could not even help Tom with the cooking. Later I remembered having heard that Bicarbonate of Soda was a good thing. It was Relief followed immediately and after polishing off a good feed of duck I was able to cook damper for the morrowe We are staying the night here.
+While waiting for the sun to do its worst before starting, I noticed some ducks downstream well out of gunshot. We debated whether or not we would go after them, and in the end decided that as our meat was running low I should go along on foot and get a shot in. This I did and winged one; Tom then brought the canoe and we dispatched it in fine style with another shot. 14 had been pretty bad with sunburn up till now, and this short spell in the blazing sun finished things. When we arrived back in camp I was in agony and could not even help Tom with the cooking. Later I remembered having heard that Bicarbonate of Soda was a good thing. It was! Relief followed immediately and after polishing off a good feed of duck I was able to cook damper for the morrow. We are staying the night here.
-STOP PRESS. Our eel line just went off and nearly pulled down the tree, we had it tied to. We landed him. A.beautyl As thick as your arm and 2/6" lang. The line is a sight for sore eyes. I'm not touching it till daylight.
+STOP PRESS. Our eel line just went off and nearly pulled down the tree, we had it tied to. We landed him. A beauty! As thick as your arm and 2' 6" long. The line is a sight for sore eyes. I'm not touching it till daylight.
-Friday - Up at 4.45 a.m. and packedand away by 6 o'clock. Even then the flies beat us, and we interred our perch with all honours. The going was easy so we put the spinner out again and soon had two more fish, even bigger than the others. Goodness only knows haw many we could have caught had we wanted them. The river is simply alive with fish and game. We passed through several long deep pools with occasional rapids, and at 7.59 a.m. "Joy" turned into Kangaroo River and headed upstream. We stopped at the first rapid-Ad-little way from the mouth. of the river and prepared breakfast.
+Friday - Up at 4.45 am and packed and away by 6 o'clock. Even then the flies beat us, and we interred our perch with all honours. The going was easy so we put the spinner out again and soon had two more fish, even bigger than the others. Goodness only knows how many we could have caught had we wanted them. The river is simply alive with fish and game. We passed through several long deep pools with occasional rapids, and at 7.59 am "Joy" turned into Kangaroo River and headed upstream. We stopped at the first rapid a little way from the mouth of the river and prepared breakfast.
-The fish (grilled) were beautiful and although we have not yet sampled the eel, he looks 'good ohs/ in the stewpan. To-day is a scorcherI Even our cool breeze of yesterday has turned hot. We do not intend going on until late afternoon as my legs won't stand the strain of another day in the sun. The rapid below our camp is the first one we have been able to shoot, and although but a baby, we have been making up for lost time. Even to stunt shooting in an empty boat. As I write this (12 noon) the heat is almost unbearable and the incessant drone of the flies and locusts very tiresome. During the afternoon a storm worked up and we decided to make camp here as the position is good. So far all that has happened is that a few drops of rain have cooled down the air, but I think we will get it to-night. We've just had a good tea of boiled eel, potatoes and anions, damper and jam, figs and tea. Not so bad after a week "at sea.
+The fish (grilled) were beautiful and although we have not yet sampled the eel, he looks 'good oh!' in the stewpan. Today is a scorcher! Even our cool breeze of yesterday has turned hot. We do not intend going on until late afternoon as my legs won't stand the strain of another day in the sun. The rapid below our camp is the first one we have been able to shoot, and although but a baby, we have been making up for lost time. Even to stunt shooting in an empty boat. As I write this (12 noon) the heat is almost unbearable and the incessant drone of the flies and locusts very tiresome. During the afternoon a storm worked up and we decided to make camp here as the position is good. So far all that has happened is that a few drops of rain have cooled down the air, but I think we will get it tonight. We've just had a good tea of boiled eel, potatoes and anions, damper and jam, figs and tea. Not so bad after a week "at sea".
-Christmas Eve - It rained steadily all last night. This morning a gale is blowing with occasional scuds letting dawn more wetness on us. Our departure was delayed until 11 a.m. to get as much of the sun as possible to counter the icy blast from the South.
+Christmas Eve - It rained steadily all last night. This morning a gale is blowing with occasional scuds letting down more wetness on us. Our departure was delayed until 11 am to get as much of the sun as possible to counter the icy blast from the South.
-The Kangaroo River is a beautiful placid stream, showing a very marked contrast to the Shoalhaven. The first pool is some six or seven miles in length with well treed, grassy slopes on either side. About half way along, the River is joined by Bundanoon Creek while at the top of the pool, after passing up a small rapid Yarrungah Creek is met. Small rapids follow in quick succession as the river bends away to the East through most beautiful country, eventually finding its source in the mountains surrounding Kangaroo Valley.
+The Kangaroo River is a beautiful placid stream, showing a very marked contrast to the Shoalhaven. The first pool is some six or seven miles in length with well treed, grassy slopes on either side. About half way along, the River is joined by Bundanoon Creek while at the top of the pool, after passing up a small rapid Yarrungah Creek [Yarrunga Creek] is met. Small rapids follow in quick succession as the river bends away to the East through most beautiful country, eventually finding its source in the mountains surrounding Kangaroo Valley.
-Banks lined with Casuarinas, the river is clear, with a gravelly bottom and thick grass to the water's edge, broken by occasional patches of rock. Camp was eventually pitched in a pretty setting about 8 miles up from the Shoalhaven. Tea was soon under way and as soon disposed of, damper cooked and a little fishing indulged in. The fish were small so we had to catch four to make a decent breakfast. A gale of wind has been blowing all day and although we are quite sheltered here, we are wearing flannels and keeping pretty close to a respectable camp fire. The rain seems to have cleared away and Christmas Day should be fine. Tom came to light with cigars after dinner "Just to show it's Christmas."
+Banks lined with Casuarinas, the river is clear, with a gravelly bottom and thick grass to the water's edge, broken by occasional patches of rock. Camp was eventually pitched in a pretty setting about 8 miles up from the Shoalhaven. Tea was soon under way and as soon disposed of, damper cooked and a little fishing indulged in. The fish were small so we had to catch four to make a decent breakfast. A gale of wind has been blowing all day and although we are quite sheltered here, we are wearing flannels and keeping pretty close to a respectable camp fire. The rain seems to have cleared away and Christmas Day should be fine. Tom came to light with cigars after dinner "Just to show it's Christmas".
-Christmas Day - Still windy with a clear blue skye We started downstream after a good solid breakfast of porridge followed by boiled fish and coffee. After negotiating the rapids we passed yesterday, we put out the spinner and I took the bow seat with the gun. We bagged neither fish nor fowl and came to the conclusion that, compare4With the Shoalhaven, the Kangaroo River is practically devoid of game. We stopped at aundanoon Creek and walked about a mile upstream, the creek bed became too rough after that for bare feet, so we returned to the boat and paddled back upstream about half-a--mile to where we had seen a good camp site, had a cold lunch and settled dawn to a quiet afternoon in the shade of the casuarinas. When we awoke, it was to find the sun setting and the wind setting rapidly. Tea was soon over and we took a turn up and down the river with the spinner. Nothing doings Tom made a wonderful damper on our return which we set aside for the morrow.
+Christmas Day - Still windy with a clear blue sky. We started downstream after a good solid breakfast of porridge followed by boiled fish and coffee. After negotiating the rapids we passed yesterday, we put out the spinner and I took the bow seat with the gun. We bagged neither fish nor fowl and came to the conclusion that, compare with the Shoalhaven, the Kangaroo River is practically devoid of game. We stopped at Bundanoon Creek and walked about a mile upstream, the creek bed became too rough after that for bare feet, so we returned to the boat and paddled back upstream about half a mile to where we had seen a good camp site, had a cold lunch and settled down to a quiet afternoon in the shade of the casuarinas. When we awoke, it was to find the sun setting and the wind setting rapidly. Tea was soon over and we took a turn up and down the river with the spinner. Nothing doing! Tom made a wonderful damper on our return which we set aside for the morrow.
 Another pipe of tobacco, memories of past Christmas Days spent together and we turned in.
 (To be continued)
-"THE COLO GORGE"
+===== "The Colo Gorge" =====
-(Tune: It Ain't Gonner Rain No Mo'.)
+(Tune: It Ain't Gonner Rain No Mo')
-. This is the yarn of Dunc and her friends, who thought they were all very tough,
+. This is the yarn of Dunc and her friends, who thought they were all very tough,\\
-When they left one day in spirit so gay to tackle the Colo rough.
+When they left one day in spirit so gay to tackle the Colo rough.\\
-They were loaded with food and cameras galore, which filled their old packs to the brim,
+They were loaded with food and cameras galore, which filled their old packs to the brim,\\
-But their hearts were light though they looked such a sight, and they all were in very good trim.
+But their hearts were light though they looked such a sight, and they all were in very good trim.\\
 . They went for two weeks with the object in view of ambling along at their leisure,
@@ Line 143: / Line 144: @@
 FOOD.
-Food - at once the blessing and curse of camping. How easy without food (to carry) a fortnight's trip would be, yet haw drear the prospect of a fortnight without food (to eat).
+Food - at once the blessing and curse of camping. How easy without food (to carry) a fortnight's trip would be, yet how drear the prospect of a fortnight without food (to eat).
 Many folk would blush with shame if they realised just how much of their time was spent in the contemplation and consumption of comestibles. In camping the proportion is greater than ever. If you see- a group of people sitting round a table in the club,
@@ Line 180: / Line 181: @@
 As Bill Henley had not arrived at this stage, about 7.30 p.m., we decided that we would occupy his cave for some time, at least until the river rose, if it did. We also made use of Billts bundle of hessian which he leaves at the "Basin" from week to week. Just as we were settled, Gordon SAith arrived, and his position in the cave was-such that he was able to keep an eye on the river. Fixing a torch to the roof like a lamp, we made ourselves quite comfortable and prayed that Bill would not come and upset our plans for the night. As is customary with us we sang many of the songs from our repertoire including - "River, stay :way from Door," which was most appropriate.
-About 12 o'clock we were awakened by Gordon, at least those of us who were asleep, and it was decided that we would have to vacate Bill's cave, as the river was fast rising. Such excitement, I can assure you: As the rain had ceased, temporarily, we just brought our sleeping gear to "Our Home" and dumped it dawn, having decided to walk around and have a look at the "Basin". This just looked like a mighty ocean, but as it was fairly dark We could not get a very good view. On arriving back at the cave we once again attempted to get comfortable for the balance of the night. But lol the hessian was gone. Speaking candidly, I was mystified. However, Gordon solved the mystery by discovering some gear some distance away, which meant that B111 had arrived and was transferring his hessian etc. to a higher and drier cave. Thus ended our night's sleep, I think, as it began to rain again and the dry space in the cave was reduced to a minimum. We were quite tickled when one of the boys decided to sleep on the top shelf, but I can assure you he did sleep, which could not be said of some of us. Some were in sitting positions, and I was lying on rock at an angle of 450, with a large stone at my feet to prevent me from slipping out into the wet altogether. Thanks to a new sleeping bag of Paddy's, I was at least warm.
+About 12 o'clock we were awakened by Gordon, at least those of us who were asleep, and it was decided that we would have to vacate Bill's cave, as the river was fast rising. Such excitement, I can assure you: As the rain had ceased, temporarily, we just brought our sleeping gear to "Our Home" and dumped it down, having decided to walk around and have a look at the "Basin". This just looked like a mighty ocean, but as it was fairly dark We could not get a very good view. On arriving back at the cave we once again attempted to get comfortable for the balance of the night. But lol the hessian was gone. Speaking candidly, I was mystified. However, Gordon solved the mystery by discovering some gear some distance away, which meant that B111 had arrived and was transferring his hessian etc. to a higher and drier cave. Thus ended our night's sleep, I think, as it began to rain again and the dry space in the cave was reduced to a minimum. We were quite tickled when one of the boys decided to sleep on the top shelf, but I can assure you he did sleep, which could not be said of some of us. Some were in sitting positions, and I was lying on rock at an angle of 450, with a large stone at my feet to prevent me from slipping out into the wet altogether. Thanks to a new sleeping bag of Paddy's, I was at least warm.
-At the first signs of dawn we could see the river from tour door', a most unusual sight, and which meant that Bill's cave was well under water. The water was rushing by at such speed. too. Around we went to the "Basin", so sorry, of course, to vacate our comfortable beds - oh yeahl There were no falls at all; so high was the water that it just poured straight in without a drop. Punchbowl Creek was sending in its share to make the big sea, and where the river and creek met in the middle was a kind of whirlpool. The combined, waters flawed on their way, causing a very fast current.
+At the first signs of dawn we could see the river from tour door', a most unusual sight, and which meant that Bill's cave was well under water. The water was rushing by at such speed. too. Around we went to the "Basin", so sorry, of course, to vacate our comfortable beds - oh yeahl There were no falls at all; so high was the water that it just poured straight in without a drop. Punchbowl Creek was sending in its share to make the big sea, and where the river and creek met in the middle was a kind of whirlpool. The combined, waters flowed on their way, causing a very fast current.
 Blue sky, however, began to peep through the grey, and 'Old Sol' was endeavouring to penetrate through the clouds. Later on in the day, when the floodwaters had subsided somewhat, we got into the river below the "Basin", and ovam, or allowed ourselves to be carried with the currents for about a quarter of a mile or so, which provided a new thrill.
@@ Line 205: / Line 206: @@
 Just after lunch she arrived at Wiseman's Ferry to stay half an hour. A trip to the township for light refreshments and then a swim soon saw the half hour slip away to threequarters before the "Eringhi" moved out into the stream. From Wiseman's Ferry the river gets slightly narrower and is bordered with willows. At 4.30 p.m. preparations were made to disembark, and shortly afterwards the party was waving goodbye to the "Eringhi" and her crew who had been much amused throughout the trip. Another swim, dinner and early bed to the tune of a thunderstorm completed a long enjoyable day.
-Sunday was cloudy with a promise of rain. A plunge from the jetty, and a swim dawn river with the tide to the punt slips was a good appetiser for breakfast. Camp broke up at 9.30 and the party got onto the road for a leg-stretcher into Windsor. After casting envious eyes, at the melon patches at Ebenezer, a large watermelon was procured and consumed at Wilberforce. The rain cut lunch short and packs were shouldered in very short while. The party moved into Windsor at a brisk walk to keep warm, and after inspection of the Macquarie Church and graveyard they wended their way stationwards.
+Sunday was cloudy with a promise of rain. A plunge from the jetty, and a swim down river with the tide to the punt slips was a good appetiser for breakfast. Camp broke up at 9.30 and the party got onto the road for a leg-stretcher into Windsor. After casting envious eyes, at the melon patches at Ebenezer, a large watermelon was procured and consumed at Wilberforce. The rain cut lunch short and packs were shouldered in very short while. The party moved into Windsor at a brisk walk to keep warm, and after inspection of the Macquarie Church and graveyard they wended their way stationwards.
 Even Jean and May and Paddy voted it a good weekend, so roll up for the next one. It will be an unofficially official one.
@@ Line 215: / Line 216: @@
 The Eye slowly travelled' around the room. Under its hypnotic spell some wilted, many hurriedly glanced down, a few gazed with awe as It pounced on a likely victim. At last It saw me - step by step nearer It came - I clutched my seat in terror, made a frantic effort to escape, but too late! "Any contributions for the 'Bushwalker'?" went on our Recorder.
-I suppose I'll have to write something, if only to uplift the ideals.of the paper, but what can little humble I write about the Kawmung, Black Dog, Kanangra, Kedumba, etc. that everyone does not know? What advice can I offer you seasoned hikers - excuse me, walkers - that would not savour of telling your esteemed grandmothers to suck eggs? The answer in both cases is a lemon, or as the vulgar say, Nil. So I'll just confine myself to a few sketches culled here and there, commencing with a social note from the "Sydney Bush Talker:"
+I suppose I'll have to write something, if only to uplift the ideals.of the paper, but what can little humble I write about the Kowmung, Black Dog, Kanangra, Kedumba, etc. that everyone does not know? What advice can I offer you seasoned hikers - excuse me, walkers - that would not savour of telling your esteemed grandmothers to suck eggs? The answer in both cases is a lemon, or as the vulgar say, Nil. So I'll just confine myself to a few sketches culled here and there, commencing with a social note from the "Sydney Bush Talker:"
 The relatives and friends of Mlle. Jeane, one of the noted Pony family, will be grieved to learn that an Ixodes Holocyclus, commonly known as a tick, inserted itself into her leg, whilst she was staying at her country seat, the ever popular resort, Basinville. Displaying heroic stoicism, while the by- standers were treated for hysterics, she resigned herself to our medical skill. Friends will be pleased to know the operation was successful, a half-inch splinter being removed from her extremity,"
@@ Line 386: / Line 387: @@
 THE PASSING SHOW ON THE WORONORA RIVER.
-I know it would be presumptuous of me to endeavour to describe with my li.mited vocabulary the wonders of our trip dawn the Woronora River by moonlight; but there must be many amongst the Bush Walkers to whom the mention of canoe-ing brings back happy memories. Every river has a charm of its own in the daytime, but it takes the moon rising slowly over the ridges to bring out the fullest beauty of the silvery waters.
+I know it would be presumptuous of me to endeavour to describe with my li.mited vocabulary the wonders of our trip down the Woronora River by moonlight; but there must be many amongst the Bush Walkers to whom the mention of canoe-ing brings back happy memories. Every river has a charm of its own in the daytime, but it takes the moon rising slowly over the ridges to bring out the fullest beauty of the silvery waters.
 Our party separated at Como at dusk; two of us to do the ten miles in our pack-laden canoe and the remainder to walk to Engadine to the Sabugal which was to be our destination. The walkers arrived some considerable time before us, and we were greeted by a hearty meal which was most welcome.
-The Woronora is alive with fish of all description, and in the hopes of securing a fish breakfast we arose early the next morning and tried angling, yodelling, swearing and all orthodox and unorthodox methods - to no avail. Having completely given up hope we returned to our camp and brought forth the inevitable eggs and bacon. It was then that we were treated to an exhibition of the piscatorial art at its best. We perceived a motor boat and dinghy - crew attired in correct nautical garb - proceeding down the river midst much noise and commotion, which we were given to understand was the correct method of sending all fish life dawn the end of the river. This process continued for some half hour or so, then, having supposedly driven the scaly inhabitants of the Woronora into an area of some 20 by 50 yards, they proceeded to scientifically lay their net. From our vantage point we gained a first hand knowledge of how this should be done and were duly impressed. These modern Izaak Waltons then drove the fish up into the area covered by the net; the method employed closely resembling carpet beating, and this feat accomplished], the big moment arrived. Breakfast being temporarily forgotten, we gathered around to watch. The crew dashed to their respective positions and the net was slowly drawn up, but, alas l absolutely devoid of fish. The look of incredibility on our faces was seriously rivalled by the expression of chagrin registered by the disillusioned fishermen who slunk hurriedly out of sight. A little later a local rustic arrived on the scene, and using the most primitive method, threw a stone at a big fish that came to the surface, then calmly waded out and retrieved his booty.
+The Woronora is alive with fish of all description, and in the hopes of securing a fish breakfast we arose early the next morning and tried angling, yodelling, swearing and all orthodox and unorthodox methods - to no avail. Having completely given up hope we returned to our camp and brought forth the inevitable eggs and bacon. It was then that we were treated to an exhibition of the piscatorial art at its best. We perceived a motor boat and dinghy - crew attired in correct nautical garb - proceeding down the river midst much noise and commotion, which we were given to understand was the correct method of sending all fish life down the end of the river. This process continued for some half hour or so, then, having supposedly driven the scaly inhabitants of the Woronora into an area of some 20 by 50 yards, they proceeded to scientifically lay their net. From our vantage point we gained a first hand knowledge of how this should be done and were duly impressed. These modern Izaak Waltons then drove the fish up into the area covered by the net; the method employed closely resembling carpet beating, and this feat accomplished], the big moment arrived. Breakfast being temporarily forgotten, we gathered around to watch. The crew dashed to their respective positions and the net was slowly drawn up, but, alas l absolutely devoid of fish. The look of incredibility on our faces was seriously rivalled by the expression of chagrin registered by the disillusioned fishermen who slunk hurriedly out of sight. A little later a local rustic arrived on the scene, and using the most primitive method, threw a stone at a big fish that came to the surface, then calmly waded out and retrieved his booty.
 This river is apparently the mecca of all would-be rowers, which afforded us an amusing afternoon; particularly when a rather pompous man-about-town - well-known to several of our party -was majestically rowing his lady-love up the river. On sighting us he put forth his "better than best" effort, with almost disastrous results. He unnerved his fair passenger and unseated himself. We endeavoured to appear oblivious of his discomfiture, but I'm afraid our shaking shoulders and suppressed giggles gave us away.
@@ Line 404: / Line 405: @@
 and. (Claude Morale): Why, certainly Mr. - er, what is your name?
 I'm sorry I've forgotten it. Kaplonk? Ohl yes, of course, Mr. Kaplcnk; one
-meets so many people you know that new members' names are rather hard to remember. Yes, some of us are going to the Kawmung River for the week end. Rather stiff you know - about 47 miles - but it's very interesting country and I'm sure you would like it. Would you care to come?
+meets so many people you know that new members' names are rather hard to remember. Yes, some of us are going to the Kowmung River for the week end. Rather stiff you know - about 47 miles - but it's very interesting country and I'm sure you would like it. Would you care to come?
 st.: Thank you very much, I would. Er - have you had tea yet? No? Well,
 come and join me - I'm going to have a glass of milk and some brown bread & butter.
@@ Line 445: / Line 446: @@
 A quick run brought us to St Ives, where we bought some oranges and then another short run took us to a turn off which we soon found was the wrong one, but were able to get across to the track we should have been on, and so really got started on our trip to Commodore Heights & Little Pittwater. What a trip it was, too! Up and down gullies, with glorious views on either side from the tops of the ridges. It was a treat to seek the wild flowers, particularly the Christmas Bells.
-A few years ago the Government spent a lot of money making this road out to West Head a scenic one for cars, etc., and we were counting on it being in fair condition, but what a disappointment. We could see where it had been good, but now most of the good parts had been washed away, and the best travelling is mostly through the scrub alongside the road, or over sand which has filled up SOMB of the lower lying parts. Inside half an hour Paddy and I were quite expert at hopping off the moving truck to either help the engine over a big rock or to act as brakes to prevent the truck dropping over one too suddenly. May and Leo also had their share of jumping off and on, but May sat over a good many of the jolts, and afterwards proudly showed us the bruises she'd got. "Chips" did not knaw what he was taking on when the trip WAS arranged. One of the worst stretches was along the divide between Coal and Candle Creek & McCarr's Creek. From below Arden, Willunga and Topham Trigs, we got splendid views over Lovett & Tagler's Bays to Pittwater, where a big number of yachts and launches were gathered for the Regatta. Everything considered, we made good time to above Little Pittwater, where the truck was left in the scrub and we got an our packs. Followed a little Creek, through some very rough stuff dawn to the salt water where we got a nice camping ground. All the way dawn there were some beautiful shows of Christmas Bush and Bells, palms and ferns.
+A few years ago the Government spent a lot of money making this road out to West Head a scenic one for cars, etc., and we were counting on it being in fair condition, but what a disappointment. We could see where it had been good, but now most of the good parts had been washed away, and the best travelling is mostly through the scrub alongside the road, or over sand which has filled up SOMB of the lower lying parts. Inside half an hour Paddy and I were quite expert at hopping off the moving truck to either help the engine over a big rock or to act as brakes to prevent the truck dropping over one too suddenly. May and Leo also had their share of jumping off and on, but May sat over a good many of the jolts, and afterwards proudly showed us the bruises she'd got. "Chips" did not know what he was taking on when the trip WAS arranged. One of the worst stretches was along the divide between Coal and Candle Creek & McCarr's Creek. From below Arden, Willunga and Topham Trigs, we got splendid views over Lovett & Tagler's Bays to Pittwater, where a big number of yachts and launches were gathered for the Regatta. Everything considered, we made good time to above Little Pittwater, where the truck was left in the scrub and we got an our packs. Followed a little Creek, through some very rough stuff down to the salt water where we got a nice camping ground. All the way down there were some beautiful shows of Christmas Bush and Bells, palms and ferns.
 Just across the Creek there was a big tent which we soon found sheltered a family party of Father, Mother and two sons. They were there for ten days and had a fine motor boat in which they did a lot of fishing. Soon we had a fire going and had 'a snack which we all needed, particularly "Chips" as he'd had nothing since breakfast at 7 a.m. Then the tents went up and we made ourselves comfortable for the night. There was a good supply of bracken and fern and any amount of wood. It was dusk by the time we had got all fixed up and had to have dinner by candle light. It was a glorious night with a nice balmy air and a full moon. Round the fire we talked and had a few choruses etc,, and then to bed as we were all tired. The mosquitoes in the tents were a pest, and all complained in the morning about having a broken night. Leo, like the humans, was restless and barked several times as well as doing a few scampers through the scrub after ?