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 Under the old regime (for Walks Programmes) November marked the beginning of the Summer Programme, and this has been distinguished in recent years by the paucity of real walking activity. A glance through old programmes will prove that early members did not treat the summer months with such caution. Present members generally speaking, deem the summer "too hot" for energetic walking. Under the old regime (for Walks Programmes) November marked the beginning of the Summer Programme, and this has been distinguished in recent years by the paucity of real walking activity. A glance through old programmes will prove that early members did not treat the summer months with such caution. Present members generally speaking, deem the summer "too hot" for energetic walking.
  
-Actually, there is probably a fallacy in that argument. In Sydney the average January maximum temperature is about 79 derees, and there are certainly many mild days when quite ambitious trips could be undertaken in comfort. At the same time, summer weather does introduce certain problems, and to disregard them would be foolhardy. Walking and climbing with a pack on a day when the mercury rises above 90 degrees may be not only disagreeable, but dangerous. Some seven or eight years ago a member of another Club died from heatstroke during a midsummer walk on Cox's River.+Actually, there is probably a fallacy in that argument. In Sydney the average January maximum temperature is about 79 degrees, and there are certainly many mild days when quite ambitious trips could be undertaken in comfort. At the same time, summer weather does introduce certain problems, and to disregard them would be foolhardy. Walking and climbing with a pack on a day when the mercury rises above 90 degrees may be not only disagreeable, but dangerous. Some seven or eight years ago a member of another Club died from heatstroke during a midsummer walk on Cox's River.
  
 If a party embarked on a walking journey encounters really hot weather, it is certainly wise to take advantage of the cooler morning and evening hours, and to rest during the heat of the day, from about 10.30 a.m. to 3 p.m., even if it does mean really early rising - five o'clock or earlier for preference. If a party embarked on a walking journey encounters really hot weather, it is certainly wise to take advantage of the cooler morning and evening hours, and to rest during the heat of the day, from about 10.30 a.m. to 3 p.m., even if it does mean really early rising - five o'clock or earlier for preference.
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 ====Barbecue Week-end:==== ====Barbecue Week-end:====
  
-At Wal Roots' home, 93 Grosvenor Road, Wahroonga, aon the night of Saturday, December 13th.+At Wal Roots' home, 93 Grosvenor Road, Wahroonga, on the night of Saturday, December 13th.
  
 Camping space in the Roots' backyard, or the adjoining Kuring-gai Chase, for those who will be isolated by lack of late transport, or who prefer to stay over. Camping space in the Roots' backyard, or the adjoining Kuring-gai Chase, for those who will be isolated by lack of late transport, or who prefer to stay over.
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 After a thorough inspection of the Park, we pressed on through a small pass in the Ranges, descending to Mundi Mundi Plains, which impressed the visitors in their vast extent. The panorama from South West to North seemed quite flat, except for the Boolcoolmatta Hills, about 40 miles away in South Australia, looking very like a Hans Heysen painting of a Central Australian Range. Following round the edge of the Barriers for a couple of miles brought us to Umberumberka Reservoir, until recently one of the sources of Broken Hill's water supply (it will he used again in an emergency), in a rocky defile right on the Western edge of the Barrier Range. The sun was sinking, so we had to hurry back to the City, where Betty had dinner waiting for us. During the evening Tom and I visited 4 of the 41 hostelries doing business here. One is particularly interesting, as the interior decoration suggests a drinking saloon as depicted in "Western" American films and has attached to it an old theatre, now used as a billiard room. The whole arrangement must have been most convenient for theatre goers when Broken Hill was a rip-roaring mining town and hotels were open until 11 p.m. throughout the State. After a thorough inspection of the Park, we pressed on through a small pass in the Ranges, descending to Mundi Mundi Plains, which impressed the visitors in their vast extent. The panorama from South West to North seemed quite flat, except for the Boolcoolmatta Hills, about 40 miles away in South Australia, looking very like a Hans Heysen painting of a Central Australian Range. Following round the edge of the Barriers for a couple of miles brought us to Umberumberka Reservoir, until recently one of the sources of Broken Hill's water supply (it will he used again in an emergency), in a rocky defile right on the Western edge of the Barrier Range. The sun was sinking, so we had to hurry back to the City, where Betty had dinner waiting for us. During the evening Tom and I visited 4 of the 41 hostelries doing business here. One is particularly interesting, as the interior decoration suggests a drinking saloon as depicted in "Western" American films and has attached to it an old theatre, now used as a billiard room. The whole arrangement must have been most convenient for theatre goers when Broken Hill was a rip-roaring mining town and hotels were open until 11 p.m. throughout the State.
  
-The Thursday afternoon was spent under Betty Gordon's guidance in a visit to Stephen's Creek Reservoir and Pimping Station, where he City's water supply is now received after its 60 mile journey frbm the Darling River at Menindee, and then pumped into the local reticulation system. The Flying Doctor radio session goes on the air at 4 p.m., so the party arrived at the Base just before that hour, where Frank Basden, the chief operator, entertained them for 1 1/2 hours receiving and sending medical and business calls of the "great outback" by short wave. During the evening, I was able to join Tom and Jean in an inspection of National Regional Station 2NB, where the experimental radio telephone service connects with Darnick, Tibooburra, Radium Hill and Andamooka opal field, the latter two in South Australia.+The Thursday afternoon was spent under Betty Gordon's guidance in a visit to Stephen's Creek Reservoir and Pimping Station, where he City's water supply is now received after its 60 mile journey from the Darling River at Menindee, and then pumped into the local reticulation system. The Flying Doctor radio session goes on the air at 4 p.m., so the party arrived at the Base just before that hour, where Frank Basden, the chief operator, entertained them for 1 1/2 hours receiving and sending medical and business calls of the "great outback" by short wave. During the evening, I was able to join Tom and Jean in an inspection of National Regional Station 2NB, where the experimental radio telephone service connects with Darnick, Tibooburra, Radium Hill and Andamooka opal field, the latter two in South Australia.
  
 The surface workings at the Zinc Corporation are open for public inspection every weekday. The conducted tour gives a good idea of the processes used in treating the various ores until the concentrates are actually in the rail trucks en route to Port Pirie for smelting. Our guests attended on Friday afternoon. The surface workings at the Zinc Corporation are open for public inspection every weekday. The conducted tour gives a good idea of the processes used in treating the various ores until the concentrates are actually in the rail trucks en route to Port Pirie for smelting. Our guests attended on Friday afternoon.
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 Various parrots and other bird life were busy settling down for the night in the gum trees near the camp when we returned. When we had dined, the moon had risen and, as it was nearly full moon, shed a lovely light over the curious rock shapes and dry country trees and shrubs. Various parrots and other bird life were busy settling down for the night in the gum trees near the camp when we returned. When we had dined, the moon had risen and, as it was nearly full moon, shed a lovely light over the curious rock shapes and dry country trees and shrubs.
  
-In the morning we awoke to all sorts of unfamiliar bird calls. Just as we were scrambling into the rather fresh morning freshness, the sound of an aircraft could be heard approaching. It was a small red Auster plane, used for private flying and for taxi work in these districts. It circled round the camp several times, so that it was obvious that the pilot was trying to attract our attention. Then, on his lowest swoop, a white oject was dropped which we ran to pick up. It was a message from a Mr. Gall, whose property was some miles away, saying that Jean's Father had taken seriously ill in Sydney and suggesting that we return to Broken Hill. (Betty Gordon had 'phoned the message to Mr. Gall the previous night and this was his way of delivering it). We had breakfast and as one packed up, the others had a quick look at the surrounding country, including the famous water holes, which were probably the reason for so much aboriginal camping in these ranges during the centuries gone by. We made good time to do the return trip in four hours - the road surfaces in the Western Darling have to be seen to be believed. There was one Emu along the track, but no Kangaroo, although normally there are plenty about, unless the present open season has caused them to retreat into seclusion. At Yanco Glen, about 20 miles from "The Hill" we caught up with a fine mob of Hereford cattle being driven by an almost entirely aboriginal drover's outfit. My guess was that they had come from Western Queensland, as aboriginal drovers are not common around these parts.+In the morning we awoke to all sorts of unfamiliar bird calls. Just as we were scrambling into the rather fresh morning freshness, the sound of an aircraft could be heard approaching. It was a small red Auster plane, used for private flying and for taxi work in these districts. It circled round the camp several times, so that it was obvious that the pilot was trying to attract our attention. Then, on his lowest swoop, a white object was dropped which we ran to pick up. It was a message from a Mr. Gall, whose property was some miles away, saying that Jean's Father had taken seriously ill in Sydney and suggesting that we return to Broken Hill. (Betty Gordon had 'phoned the message to Mr. Gall the previous night and this was his way of delivering it). We had breakfast and as one packed up, the others had a quick look at the surrounding country, including the famous water holes, which were probably the reason for so much aboriginal camping in these ranges during the centuries gone by. We made good time to do the return trip in four hours - the road surfaces in the Western Darling have to be seen to be believed. There was one Emu along the track, but no Kangaroo, although normally there are plenty about, unless the present open season has caused them to retreat into seclusion. At Yanco Glen, about 20 miles from "The Hill" we caught up with a fine mob of Hereford cattle being driven by an almost entirely aboriginal drover's outfit. My guess was that they had come from Western Queensland, as aboriginal drovers are not common around these parts.
  
 Upon our arrival in the City, it became obvious that Jean would have to return to Sydney, so we organised her into a 'plane that evening. Then followed a couple of days of comparative quiet, while Tom looked after the family supervised by Betty. Don Gordon arrived back from Sydney, where he had been on business, and was able to arrange for Tom and I and three others to have an underground inspection of part of the North Broken Hill Mine. Upon our arrival in the City, it became obvious that Jean would have to return to Sydney, so we organised her into a 'plane that evening. Then followed a couple of days of comparative quiet, while Tom looked after the family supervised by Betty. Don Gordon arrived back from Sydney, where he had been on business, and was able to arrange for Tom and I and three others to have an underground inspection of part of the North Broken Hill Mine.
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 Whichever view is correct, we wandered into the Water Reserve, and it was several days before we realised it. The views to our west were quite good but in the east the heavy undergrowth prevented us from seeing anything. After lunch we continued south a little further, obtaining good views of the Maroondah Reservoir to the west, and then turned off on to a prominent ridge which we thought was the east-west section of the Divide. The afternoon was spent in pushing our way through wiregrass and scrub but, by way of compensation, we were able to admire the magnificent stands of Mountain Ash. Whichever view is correct, we wandered into the Water Reserve, and it was several days before we realised it. The views to our west were quite good but in the east the heavy undergrowth prevented us from seeing anything. After lunch we continued south a little further, obtaining good views of the Maroondah Reservoir to the west, and then turned off on to a prominent ridge which we thought was the east-west section of the Divide. The afternoon was spent in pushing our way through wiregrass and scrub but, by way of compensation, we were able to admire the magnificent stands of Mountain Ash.
  
-Our views of the surrounding country were reduced to zero by the growth all around us and as the rate of progress had been a good deal slower than expected, it was decided to shorten the trip and to drop into Wilkes Creek valley to the Wolfram mine and thence to Marysville. Accordingly we clambered down to a creek which flowed in a northerly direction and canped for the night. The weather was not cold and no rain fell.+Our views of the surrounding country were reduced to zero by the growth all around us and as the rate of progress had been a good deal slower than expected, it was decided to shorten the trip and to drop into Wilkes Creek valley to the Wolfram mine and thence to Marysville. Accordingly we clambered down to a creek which flowed in a northerly direction and camped for the night. The weather was not cold and no rain fell.
  
 On Sunday we climbed over a spur to the north east into another creek flowing north and followed it down through a delightful fern gully. As the day wore on, the banks became a tangle of saplings and wire grass and we were forced to wade through the very cold water. The creek direction changed to north east and then to south of east, a fact which caused some misgiving. As darkness fell, we camped in a bend of the creek amid tall gums and ferns, a delightful spot. However during the night rain began to fall and continued to do so next morning. On Sunday we climbed over a spur to the north east into another creek flowing north and followed it down through a delightful fern gully. As the day wore on, the banks became a tangle of saplings and wire grass and we were forced to wade through the very cold water. The creek direction changed to north east and then to south of east, a fact which caused some misgiving. As darkness fell, we camped in a bend of the creek amid tall gums and ferns, a delightful spot. However during the night rain began to fall and continued to do so next morning.
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 The weather now became very overcast and, after wading up and down the creek, we were able to find the only flat ground thereabouts, on a small island a few inches above the water. The large tent was pitched in several inches of snow and, as rain, and then snow, began to fall, and a fire was out of the question, we spread tents and groundsheets and crawled into our sleeping bags. We reckoned that the big ridge above us was either a spur from Mt. Grant or Mt. Observation and decided to climb to the top and make our way north until the Cumberland road was crossed. The remaining food, consisting of biscuits, salami sausage and small quantities of cocoa, chocolate, cake and fruit, was roughly rationed to last two days, the time estimated to reach the road. During the night more snow fell, necessitating attention to the tent. The weather now became very overcast and, after wading up and down the creek, we were able to find the only flat ground thereabouts, on a small island a few inches above the water. The large tent was pitched in several inches of snow and, as rain, and then snow, began to fall, and a fire was out of the question, we spread tents and groundsheets and crawled into our sleeping bags. We reckoned that the big ridge above us was either a spur from Mt. Grant or Mt. Observation and decided to climb to the top and make our way north until the Cumberland road was crossed. The remaining food, consisting of biscuits, salami sausage and small quantities of cocoa, chocolate, cake and fruit, was roughly rationed to last two days, the time estimated to reach the road. During the night more snow fell, necessitating attention to the tent.
  
-On Wednesday morning we lay in because of the continuing snow and rain, then changed into our sopping wet clothes, packed, and after crossing the creek, began to make our way up the side of the ridge. The weather cleared somewhat, but after several hours hard work we had covered only about a mile and, as everybody was feeling very tired, it was decided to make camp. There was very little undergrowth but the young gum saplings growing closely together made an almost impenetrable wall, the only way to get through being to walk along fallen trees. However, the big tent was spread sufficiently to cover us all, and we usud a smaller tent for a fly. Tea consisted of several biscuits and slices of salami sausage each, an apple and a piece of cake divided between us, and a mug of hot cocoa each, made by melting snow on the primus stove. This was the second night without a fire, but an each occasion we were reasonably warm in the sleeping bags because we were able to change into dry clothes which had been kept in our packs. The most unpleasant job was changing back into sopping wet clothes in the morning.+On Wednesday morning we lay in because of the continuing snow and rain, then changed into our sopping wet clothes, packed, and after crossing the creek, began to make our way up the side of the ridge. The weather cleared somewhat, but after several hours hard work we had covered only about a mile and, as everybody was feeling very tired, it was decided to make camp. There was very little undergrowth but the young gum saplings growing closely together made an almost impenetrable wall, the only way to get through being to walk along fallen trees. However, the big tent was spread sufficiently to cover us all, and we used a smaller tent for a fly. Tea consisted of several biscuits and slices of salami sausage each, an apple and a piece of cake divided between us, and a mug of hot cocoa each, made by melting snow on the primus stove. This was the second night without a fire, but an each occasion we were reasonably warm in the sleeping bags because we were able to change into dry clothes which had been kept in our packs. The most unpleasant job was changing back into sopping wet clothes in the morning.
  
 On Thursday morning breakfast was no larger than the previous tea, but the weather was clearing and the sun trying to came through. It was afterwards learned that the temperature in the vicinity was about 32°F. on Wednesday night. As we packed we coo-eed frequently, and suddenly received an answer from the ridge above. We were overjoyed, as we exchanged coo-ees with the unseen searchers until, as we were starting off up the ridge, they met us. On Thursday morning breakfast was no larger than the previous tea, but the weather was clearing and the sun trying to came through. It was afterwards learned that the temperature in the vicinity was about 32°F. on Wednesday night. As we packed we coo-eed frequently, and suddenly received an answer from the ridge above. We were overjoyed, as we exchanged coo-ees with the unseen searchers until, as we were starting off up the ridge, they met us.
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 It was a party of local bushmen who had first heard us from the top of Mt. Observation on the ridge above, and they carried some very welcome food. It took nearly three hours to reach the road in spite of he fact that we were making our way along the track which they had taken out to reach us. The top of the ridge was in cloud, and we ploughed through a good two feet of snow, the deepest encountered on the trip. Cars took us to Marysville Police Station, and then to a boarding house, where we were wonderfully looked after and enjoyed hot baths and warm beds again. It was a party of local bushmen who had first heard us from the top of Mt. Observation on the ridge above, and they carried some very welcome food. It took nearly three hours to reach the road in spite of he fact that we were making our way along the track which they had taken out to reach us. The top of the ridge was in cloud, and we ploughed through a good two feet of snow, the deepest encountered on the trip. Cars took us to Marysville Police Station, and then to a boarding house, where we were wonderfully looked after and enjoyed hot baths and warm beds again.
  
-On the following afternoon (Friday) we left for Melbourne in brilliant sunshine, the first for over a week. Three of the party were suffering from frost bitten toes, and we were all rather scratched about the legs aad very tired.+On the following afternoon (Friday) we left for Melbourne in brilliant sunshine, the first for over a week. Three of the party were suffering from frost bitten toes, and we were all rather scratched about the legs and very tired.
  
 The worst weather experienced, as already said, was light rain, light snow and, of course, the cold. Strangely enough, the snow fall was heavier around Marysville and in Melbourne, and the weather bitterly cold, with wind, heavy rain and hail, which made people more anxious than they might have been. We had enough food left for another day, and I am inclined to think our rationing was too severe as we were very tired on the last two days. The worst weather experienced, as already said, was light rain, light snow and, of course, the cold. Strangely enough, the snow fall was heavier around Marysville and in Melbourne, and the weather bitterly cold, with wind, heavy rain and hail, which made people more anxious than they might have been. We had enough food left for another day, and I am inclined to think our rationing was too severe as we were very tired on the last two days.
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 From the performer's viewpoint, we seemed to be off the tune most of the time in trying to get the words over: at least the words apparently reached most of the audience, who witnessed a highly coloured version of the last Instructional Walk, complete with leader Eddie Stratton in strife with the Station Master (Brian Harvey) over her missing "tic-ticket, tic-ticket, tic-ticket": also a "skulking great scoundrel with broad Scottish brogue" (President McGregor) who "pulled on the chain in the train" and incurred the wrath of the engine driver ("A most unattractive old goat, tra-la"): dietetic solos by Yvonne Renwick and Pat Sullivan told of their "breakfast in bed": Ed. Stretton presented the first aid lecture, and Malcolm McGregor emphasised that "the contour is the thing" in the mapping talk: and, of course, there was the luckless Treasurer (played by Gil Webb in Phil Mason's absence) with Ross Laird for the vocal interludes: and the wicked villain (Neil Schafer) - "note my black moustache, my evil roving eye" - who smote the Treasurer with a rock, only to be foiled again. The opera did not draw the moral that Treasurers are hard-headed and hard-hearted, but threatened the audience "if we find a Treasurer dead, we'll nominate you instead" and all ended happily. From the performer's viewpoint, we seemed to be off the tune most of the time in trying to get the words over: at least the words apparently reached most of the audience, who witnessed a highly coloured version of the last Instructional Walk, complete with leader Eddie Stratton in strife with the Station Master (Brian Harvey) over her missing "tic-ticket, tic-ticket, tic-ticket": also a "skulking great scoundrel with broad Scottish brogue" (President McGregor) who "pulled on the chain in the train" and incurred the wrath of the engine driver ("A most unattractive old goat, tra-la"): dietetic solos by Yvonne Renwick and Pat Sullivan told of their "breakfast in bed": Ed. Stretton presented the first aid lecture, and Malcolm McGregor emphasised that "the contour is the thing" in the mapping talk: and, of course, there was the luckless Treasurer (played by Gil Webb in Phil Mason's absence) with Ross Laird for the vocal interludes: and the wicked villain (Neil Schafer) - "note my black moustache, my evil roving eye" - who smote the Treasurer with a rock, only to be foiled again. The opera did not draw the moral that Treasurers are hard-headed and hard-hearted, but threatened the audience "if we find a Treasurer dead, we'll nominate you instead" and all ended happily.
  
-We resumed community singing with Ian Dalgleish leading aad playing the guitar, and the voices were more animated this time. A Will Ogilvy verse by the other Turner daughter, more singing, then an interruption to allow Committee to hold an extraordinary Meeting - surely the most extraordinary meeting ever held. The assemblage must have been impressed by the dignified manner in whict the Cat problem was dealt with, and the somewhat less dignified interview with a prospective member.+We resumed community singing with Ian Dalgleish leading and playing the guitar, and the voices were more animated this time. A Will Ogilvy verse by the other Turner daughter, more singing, then an interruption to allow Committee to hold an extraordinary Meeting - surely the most extraordinary meeting ever held. The assemblage must have been impressed by the dignified manner in which the Cat problem was dealt with, and the somewhat less dignified interview with a prospective member.
  
 There were other acts prepared, but at this stage the Supper Committee, represented by Bill Rodgers, Molly Gallard and Colin Ferguson, indicated that the cake-'n-cocoa were to hand. At this stage, the organised part of the campfire came to an and, and the Film Unit commenced to operate. Producer/Cameraman Ken Meadows, with Director/Technical Assistant Keith Renwick, and a horde of counsellors, yes-men and critics in best Hollywood tradition, fluttered about the battery of lamps like so many agitated moths, holding light meters to necks, wind-jackets and noses, and calling conflicting directions. To a backdrop of old members eagerly talking with other old members, and newer members doing much the same, the Film Unit shot the highlights of the Opera. Some of the performers sang snatches of their limes, others mimed in silence. Then it was found that there wasn't enough light for the long shots, which were deferred until daylight, and the cameramen proceeded to film carefully staged applause by individual members of the "audience". There were other acts prepared, but at this stage the Supper Committee, represented by Bill Rodgers, Molly Gallard and Colin Ferguson, indicated that the cake-'n-cocoa were to hand. At this stage, the organised part of the campfire came to an and, and the Film Unit commenced to operate. Producer/Cameraman Ken Meadows, with Director/Technical Assistant Keith Renwick, and a horde of counsellors, yes-men and critics in best Hollywood tradition, fluttered about the battery of lamps like so many agitated moths, holding light meters to necks, wind-jackets and noses, and calling conflicting directions. To a backdrop of old members eagerly talking with other old members, and newer members doing much the same, the Film Unit shot the highlights of the Opera. Some of the performers sang snatches of their limes, others mimed in silence. Then it was found that there wasn't enough light for the long shots, which were deferred until daylight, and the cameramen proceeded to film carefully staged applause by individual members of the "audience".
  
-The trek to bed commenced at this time - about 11 p.m. - and continued for the next eight hours. Some small campfiries were built up and breakaway groups began their personal celebrations. Around the main fire the Pyrotechnics group took over, with several small explosions but (fortunately for the peace of the evening) the threatened big blast was a fizzer - only the detonator blew. Jim Hooper was seen taking surreptitious swigs from a bottle, and spitting it out over a lighted match, with convincing ignition. He was obliged to repeat several times before the cameras caught it, because he couldn't say "ready" with his mouth full of - was it only common kerosene, or Peter Stitt's jungle juice?+The trek to bed commenced at this time - about 11 p.m. - and continued for the next eight hours. Some small campfires were built up and breakaway groups began their personal celebrations. Around the main fire the Pyrotechnics group took over, with several small explosions but (fortunately for the peace of the evening) the threatened big blast was a fizzer - only the detonator blew. Jim Hooper was seen taking surreptitious swigs from a bottle, and spitting it out over a lighted match, with convincing ignition. He was obliged to repeat several times before the cameras caught it, because he couldn't say "ready" with his mouth full of - was it only common kerosene, or Peter Stitt's jungle juice?
  
 Between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. the group dwindled to the die-hards, who died exceedingly hard. All through the night and into the dawning they sang on and on, to the chagrin of some who tossed on their couch of turf unsleeping. There were rumours next day of some tents being let down during the night - not funny on a very dewy night. Between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. the group dwindled to the die-hards, who died exceedingly hard. All through the night and into the dawning they sang on and on, to the chagrin of some who tossed on their couch of turf unsleeping. There were rumours next day of some tents being let down during the night - not funny on a very dewy night.
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 ---- ----
  
 +=====The Dillon Huts (Springvale).=====
  
-THE DILLop HUTS (SPRINGVAp). 
 By Allen Strom. By Allen Strom.
-(Republished from "Yarrawonda", the magazine of the Caloola Club, by courtesy ofAllen Strom. Members will probably be interested + 
-in these facts concerning the site of the 25th Anniversary Re-union.) +(Republished from "Yarrawonda", the magazine of the Caloola Club, by courtesy of Allen Strom. Members will probably be interested in these facts concerning the site of the 25th Anniversary Re-union.) 
-It is well over a decade since we first came upon this grassy + 
-glade hidden away in a sea of barren sandstone Springvalel +It is well over a decade since we first came upon this grassy glade hidden away in a sea of barren sandstone... Springvale! 
-A friend who had been studying geology with us said he had heard + 
-about two volcanic necks in the sandstone country west of Joy Way and promptly drew forth a map to give us the "low down". There and then +A friend who had been studying geology with us said he had heard about two volcanic necks in the sandstone country west of Woy Woy and promptly drew forth a map to give us the "low down". There and then we decided to investigate and on the appropriate weekend we were exploring the new region. Basalt Saddle came up first and this pleased us immensely. There were interesting contacts with the sandstones and all that we expected in changes of flora. From Basalt Saddle we set a compass course across the sandstone tops that we know now as The Dillon Heights and were impressed at the grandeur of the panorama - the Hawkesbury to the south and that attractive residual Mt. Woy Woy (Wondabyne Trig) to the north. We could see that here were fine primitive lands ready for the keeping. But this enjoyment was superseded when we came out onto the head overlooking Dillon'Valley - Springvale. We had not conjectured a neck of such dimension nor of the degree of habitation; at the time Mr. G. Dillon was still working the property. The valley in its usual green, walled with sandstone and the olives of the eucalypts, presented a striking picture to the new "discoverer". We sat and looked for some time until awakened by the clatter of the family utility taking the Dillons into Woy Woy. With some reticence then, we descended into the valley and after a little exploration along the creeks, found volcanic breccia, some basaltic rock and numerous contacts with the sandstones. 
-we decided to investigate and on the appropriate weekend we were + 
-exploring the new region. Basalt Saddle came up first and this pleased us immensely. There were interesting contacts with the sand- +Many trips were made through "Springvale" after that time. Some times we explored down Dillon's Brook and along Patonga Creek, or from Wondabyne across Mt. Woy Woy and later marked the track and mapped the route from Woy Woy to The Broken Bay National Fitness Camp. There have been few happier times in our roamings than that when we "discovered" Rocky Ponds, chocked with water (and crayfish) despite the drought year of '39. 
-. stones and all that we expected in changes of flora. From Basalt Saddle we set a compass course across the sandstone tops that we know + 
-now as The Dillon Heights and were impressed at the grandeur of the +Seeing the sandstone country around "Springvale" in fair weather and foul, in the heat of summer and the soft lush of spring, has convinced us that nowhere is there a better area for preserving our wildflowers. Here are native rose, boronia end waratah in magic splendour; at times we have waded knee deep in a yellow carpet of Dillwynia and Pultanea spangled with the white of wedding bush, the pink of Boronia, the scarlet of five corners and spider flower. Honeyeaters, Rosellas, Lyre Birds and all their kin are here: and even, when the dogs leave them alone, Kangaroos. The view from Mt. Woy Woy with its wide vista of Brisbane Waters and Broken Bay, is not readily forgotten. 
-panorama - the Hawkeobury to the south and that attractive residual Mt. Woy Woy (Wondabyne Trig) to the north. We could see that here were fine primitive lands ready for the keeping. But this enjoyment was superseded when we cane out onto the head overlooking Dillonrs Valley - Springvale. We had not conjectured a neck of such dimensio nor of the degree of habitation; at the time Mr. G. Dillon was still working the property. The valley in its usual green, walled with sandstone and the olives of the eucalypts, presented a striking picture to the new "discoverer". We sat and looked for some time until awakened by the clatter of the family utility taking the Dillons into Woy Woy. With some reticence then, we descended into the valley and after a little exploration along the creeks, found volcanic breccia, some basaltic rock and numerous contacts with the sandstones. + 
-Many trips were made through Springvale" after that time. Some times we explored down Dillon's Brook and along Patonga Creek, or from Wondabyne across Mt. Woy Woy and later marked the track and mapped the route from Way Woy to The Broken Bay National loitness Camp. There have been few happier times in our roamings than that when we discovered" Rocky Ponds, chocked with water (and crayfish) despite the drought year of r39+This is recreation country par excellence: we must dedicate all the unalienated lands in this area to the nation and unborn generations, and without delay. To this project nature protectionists have given the name "The Kariong National Park" because it includes the Kariong Trig station (distinctly seen from Mt. Woy Woy) and the Kariong peninsula (the neck of land between Mullet and Mooney Creeks). Will you help? Every supporter for our scheme means an extra voice in the ear of authority..and before it is too late! 
-Seeing the sandstone country around IISpringvale" in fair weather and foul, in the heat of summer end the soft lush of spring, has convinced us that nowhere is there a better area for preserving our wildflowers. Here are native rose, boronia end waratah in magic splendour; at times we have waded knee deep in a yellow carpet of Dillwynia and Pultanea spangled with the white of weddinr; bush, the pink of BorOnia, the scarlet of five corners and spider flower. Honeyeaters, Rosellas, Lyre Birds and all their kin are here: and even, when the dogs leave them alone, Kangaroos. The view from + 
-Mt. Woy idoy with its wide vista of Brisbane Waters and Broken Bay, is not readily forgotten. +Our ramblings through these lands often brought us up with Mr. and MrsG.D. Dillon and their boys: we soon learned to know them as friendly folk who enjoyed the beauties of their surroundings as we did. Since our establishment of the Dillon Huts Scheme over 18 months ago, our contact with the Dillon family has become closer and interest in the early history of "Springvale" keener. Readers should therefore find the following notes supplied by Mr. G.D. Dillon at our request, of considerable value
-19. + 
-This is recreation country par excellence: we must dedicate all the unalienated lands in this area to the nation and unborn Generations, and without delay. To this project nature protectionists have +"As a boy of 12 I often by-passed the then bush farm, on my way to Patonga Creek, where we then lived. 
-'given the name The Kariong National Park" because it includes the Kariong Trig station (distinctly seen from Mt. Woy Woy) and the Karionj peninsula (the neck of land betw3en Mullet and Mooney Creeks). Will you help? Every supporter for our scheme means an extra voicc, in the ear of authority ..and before it is too late! + 
-Our ramblings through these lands often brought us up with +Our way of transport was by pack-horse over the Woy Woy Tunnel to Gosford, travelling mostly through bushlands and having to go right to the head of Narara Creek to reach the town as there was no bridge in those days. 
-Mr. and MrsG.D. Dillon and their boys: we soon learned to know them as friendly folk who enjoyed the beauties of their surroundings as we did. Since our establishment of the Dillon Huts 3cheme over 1( months ago, our contact -v-v1h the Dillon family has 'become closer and interest in the early history of hSpringvale" keener. Readers should therefore find the following notes supplied by Mr. G.D. Dillon at our request, of considerable value +
-"As a boy of 12 I often by-passed the then bush farm, on my way to Pat onga Creek, where we then lived. +
-Our way of transport was by pack-horse over the Woy Woy Tunnel +
-to Gosford, travelling mostly through bushlands and having to go right to the head of Narara Creek to reach the town as there was no bride in those days.+
 My brother, Mr. Lou Dillon, selected his farm, which can be seen on the hill opposite the Dillon Huts, in 1907 and four years later, my uncle, Louis Newton, selected "Springvale". He held it for 12 months and erected the kitchen which you use today. My brother, Mr. Lou Dillon, selected his farm, which can be seen on the hill opposite the Dillon Huts, in 1907 and four years later, my uncle, Louis Newton, selected "Springvale". He held it for 12 months and erected the kitchen which you use today.
-Two years later I took over the farm. It had gone back to its virgin state. We had only a bridle track from Way Way and carried out provisions on horses. We then Constructed the present route so that we -could take a cart into town. We comMenced by cutting sleepers and 
-timber which was horse drawn to Woy Woy, then cleared the bush, planted fruit trees and grew vegetables for sale in Woy Woy. 
-About 1921 we left the farm and followed the timber work to Singleton, as times were very hard, but after four years away, we 
-returned and started carrying milk to Patonga, over the hill and thence by boat down the creek. In those days Patonga was only visited by steamer as there was no road connected with Way Woy. We continued with 
-our dairy until one of my sons was called to the war and restrictions 
-forced us to leave and come to Paton Street. We shifted the house in 
  
-which we now live from the farm by dismantling and re-building it.+Two years later I took over the farm. It had gone back to its virgin state. We had only a bridle track from Woy Woy and carried out provisions on horses. We then constructed the present route so that we could take a cart into town. We commenced by cutting sleepers and timber which was horse drawn to Woy Woy, then cleared the bush, planted fruit trees and grew vegetables for sale in Woy Woy. 
 + 
 +About 1921 we left the farm and followed the timber work to Singleton, as times were very hard, but after four years away, we returned and started carrying milk to Patonga, over the hill and thence by boat down the creek. In those days Patonga was only visited by steamer as there was no road connected with Woy Woy. We continued with our dairy until one of my sons was called to the war and restrictions forced us to leave and come to Paton Street. We shifted the house in which we now live from the farm by dismantling and re-building it. 
 The other huts which we used as bedroom and kitchen have since gone to ruin as no one has been living there for nine years, and they have been ravaged by hoodlums. Thanks to your Club, there has been considerable improvement in the huts in the last year." The other huts which we used as bedroom and kitchen have since gone to ruin as no one has been living there for nine years, and they have been ravaged by hoodlums. Thanks to your Club, there has been considerable improvement in the huts in the last year."
-Seen on a recent test walk: the leader trotting briskly up the last fifty feet of Mt. Solitary towing a weary prospective by the hand,. If the quote be forgiven, it was nvewy impwethivel', but could it be setting an unwise precedent? + 
-20. +---- 
-TOUR OF VICTORIAN NATIONAL PARKS.Planned anything for the Christmas break as yet? + 
-The Caloola Club is organising a tour of some of the Victorian National Parks .. established and proposed. Kinglake (near Whittlesea), Central Highlands (near Kyneton), Werribee Gorge, The Otways, Wilson's Promontory, Bulga and Tarra Valley (East Gippsland), Mt. Buffalo, Mt. Hotham, The Bogong High Plain Area will be included in the itinerary. Some opportunity for walking in the districts traversed. From December 25th to January 13th0 Cost about 15 for travel expenses. +Seen on a recent test walk: the leader trotting briskly up the last fifty feet of Mt. Solitary towing a weary prospective by the hand. If the quote be forgiven, it was "vewy impwethive", but could it be setting an unwise precedent? 
-Some vacancies still exist. Further details on request to Allan A. Strom, + 
-6 Coopernook Avenue, +---- 
-Gymea Bay. + 
-WE 2520, WB25280 WB2529. +====Tour Of Victorian National Parks.==== 
-CELEBRATIONS BACK-WASH+ 
-We find our opening comment about the Bush Party was quite wrong. Two amazing people independently took a tally of those at the camp fire aid agree on a figure of about 160. As some of the kiddies were abed, we appear to have had 170 or more actually present. The kiddies we did NOT account for in the report were two young Butlers, 1 Woods, 1 Burke and 1 Ashdown. This still doesn't take into account several in the teenage group. All told, the tally seems to have been 22 children of members present, probably a record. +Planned anything for the Christmas break as yet? 
-S. B. W. LIGHT OPERA C CMPANY S LNGS AGAIN+ 
-SPECIAL REQUEST PERFORMANCE OF TEE OPERA "INSTRUCTION PLUSWILL BE PRESENTED ON THE PARTY NIGHT SET DOWN FOR NOVEMBER 2eTHDON'T MISS THE LOVELY SOPRANO SOLOSTHE TENOR ARIA AND THE BARITONE DUET DON'T MISS NEIL SCHAFER (GREATER THAN IVLN MENZIES! - GREATER EVEN THAN DRACULA!). +The Caloola Club is organising a tour of some of the Victorian National Parks... established and proposed. Kinglake (near Whittlesea), Central Highlands (near Kyneton), Werribee Gorge, The Otways, Wilson's Promontory, Bulga and Tarra Valley (East Gippsland), Mt. Buffalo, Mt. Hotham, The Bogong High Plain Area will be included in the itinerary. Some opportunity for walking in the districts traversed. From December 25th to January 13th. Cost about £15 for travel expenses. 
-walea.rab.. wrd.....,Nals + 
-FEDERATION NOTES OCTOBER.+Some vacancies still exist. Further details on request to Allan A. Strom, 6 Coopernook Avenue, Gymea Bay. WE 2520, WB25280 WB2529. 
 + 
 +====Celebrations Back-Wash.==== 
 + 
 +We find our opening comment about the Bush Party was quite wrong. Two amazing people independently took a tally of those at the camp fire and agree on a figure of about 160. As some of the kiddies were abed, we appear to have had 170 or more actually present. The kiddies we did NOT account for in the report were two young Butlers, 1 Woods, 1 Burke and 1 Ashdown. This still doesn't take into account several in the teenage group. All told, the tally seems to have been 22 children of members present, probably a record. 
 + 
 +====S.B.W. Light Opera Company Sings Again!==== 
 + 
 +special request performance of the opera "Instruction Pluswill be presented on the party night set down for November 28thDon't miss the lovely soprano solosthe tenor aria and the baritone duet Don't miss Neil Schafer (greater than Ivan Menzies! - greater even than Dracula!). 
 + 
 +---- 
 + 
 +=====Federation Notes - October.===== 
 By Allen A. Strom. By Allen A. Strom.
-KURNELL OIL REFINERY PROTEST COMMITTEE: A deputation has been arranged 1-o TETT upEE tE.e FreEre-25 on ThursdaY-73rd October at 2.30 p.m. Allen Strom will represent the Federation. 
-RANGER PATROL: An attempt will be made to co-ordinate the efforts of theFederation Bushfire Patrol and the Bushfire section of the N.S.W. Ranger Patrol.. 
-BOUDDI NATURAL PARK: The Trust of this Park has succeeded in obtain- 
-the ISerElnof the Department of Lands to appoint an additional bushwalker representative on the Trust. Mr. A.W. Dingeldei was nominated by the Federation. 
-21 
-BARRINGTON AND GLOUCESTER TOPS: The Newcastle Technical College nsliwalkers and' the-rfa,rington Club are proposing to initiate a new move for the declaration of a Primitive Area in the Barrington and Gloucester Tops. 
-MITCHELL LIBRARY will hold an Exhibition of drawings of Animals, 17-0770g-End Carfography of Australia before 1760 until December 31st, 1952. The drawings include some by Roper, Lewin and Gould. The Library is open from 1 - 5 p.m. on week days and 2 - 6 p.m. on Sundays. 
-SEARCH AND RESCUE SECTION: Supplies of the Section's pamphlet "Safe WEr737177' maF-157-EHE-FFFE-Faddy Pallin - this is.particularly emphasised for new members. 5,000 copies were prepared and some have been forwarded to the Police and S R bodies in Melbourne aad Brisbane. The proposed S R Weekend has been postponed until the New Year as there were too many difficulties and clashes at present. 
-BUSHWALKERS' BALL: Report by Committee showed a profit of E99.7.10 WIfE-7-37-1737ent. Efforts for a 1953 Ball have been commenced but the best booking that could be made was for the State Ballroom on Friday, October 23rd. Preparations are to continue. 
-MAPPING SECTION: Field weekends as follows have been organised: ----F7Vember 8th and 9th: Field Notes and Tacheometry. 
-7-677mb37-77=57-73rd: Plane Tabling- and Compass Traversing. Both-ive7277177TII be aF-Yra Beach with lectures ccmmencing at noon 
-on the Saturday. Further details from Joe Fletcher at B0259, ext.WF62 or WF23. A start will be made on the checking of details for the map of the Wild Dog Mountains. 
-INFORMATION SECTION is compiling a list of Transport facilities and costs. 
-MINUTES SECLETALT The position is again vacant. A volunteer is UF-denfly req=ed. 
-FEDERATION BUSHFIRE PATROL: The President is to go all 
---agani7EFlon of l95 inaugural meeting of the Patrol 
-rooms of the Big Sister Movement, Sixth Floor, Scott Hoskinc Place. If you are willing to give some help during 1952-53 then contact Paul Barnes without dela 
-c4 NEW AFFILIATIONS: Canberra Alpine Club and The Caloola Club. 
- BUNGONIA GORGE: Reported that explosions took place within the METETa 77737 during a recent weekend, apparently caused by persons wishing to extend an opening from one cave to another. The Trustees will be asked whether they were informed of the proposed blasting. 
-FEDERATION OF B-OSHWALKING CLUBS INSIGNIA: It was agreed to call for the valans=f 
-_ such submissions to be with the Secretary of Federation before the December meeting. 
-_ead with the 
-to be held in the fs Chambers, 
-on this patrol Y. 
  
-swaygiazzoLIMOWN=65:11+===Kurnell Oil Refinery protest meeting:=== 
-IT1S BIT EARLY........ + 
-FOR CHRISTMAS GREETINGS +A deputation has been arranged to wait upon the Premier on Thursday 23rd October at 2.30 p.m. Allen Strom will represent the Federation
-BUT... + 
-Paddy makes the request to all yeu good folk who contemplate going walking or camping over Christmas9 to please let him have your orders for new gear - or your wain gear for repair - +===Ranger Patrol:=== 
-in good time to avoid the Christmas rush and to ease the strain oh his factory staff0 + 
-AND FOR THOSE... +An attempt will be made to co-ordinate the efforts of the Federation Bushfire Patrol and the Bushfire section of the N.S.W. Ranger Patrol. 
-who don't know + 
-what Paddy sells well  just run your eye over the decorated border of this page - then come right in and inspect the items for yourself. +===Bouddi Natural Park:=== 
-REMEYBER... + 
-There's always some new model or gadget to be seen in the shop ! ! +The Trust of this Park has succeeded in obtaining the permission of the Department of Lands to appoint an additional bushwalker representative on the Trust. Mr. A.WDingeldei was nominated by the Federation. 
-PADDY P ALIN + 
-Lightweight Camp Gear. +===Barrington and Gloucester Tops:=== 
-20i CASTLEREAGH St SYDNEY + 
-M2678+The Newcastle Technical College Bushwalkers and the Barrington Club are proposing to initiate a new move for the declaration of a Primitive Area in the Barrington and Gloucester Tops. 
 + 
 +===Mitchell Library:=== 
 + 
 +Will hold an Exhibition of drawings of Animals, Flowers and Cartography of Australia before 1760 until December 31st, 1952The drawings include some by Roper, Lewin and GouldThe Library is open from 1 - 5 p.m. on week days and 2 - 6 p.m. on Sundays
 + 
 +===Search and Rescue Section:=== 
 + 
 +Supplies of the Section's pamphlet "Safe Walking" may be had from Paddy Pallin - this is particularly emphasised for new members. 5,000 copies were prepared and some have been forwarded to the Police and S & R bodies in Melbourne and Brisbane. The proposed S & R Weekend has been postponed until the New Year as there were too many difficulties and clashes at present
 + 
 +===Bushwalkers' Ball:=== 
 + 
 +Report by Committee showed a profit of £99.7.10 with 137 presentEfforts for a 1953 Ball have been commenced but the best booking that could be made was for the State Ballroom on Friday, October 23rd. Preparations are to continue. 
 + 
 +===Mapping Section:=== 
 + 
 +Field weekends as follows have been organised: 
 + 
 +__November 8th and 9th:__ Field Notes and Tacheometry. 
 + 
 +__November 22nd and 23rd:__ Plane Tabling and Compass Traversing. 
 + 
 +Both weekends will be at Era Beach with lectures commencing at noon on the Saturday. Further details from Joe Fletcher at B0259, ext.WF62 or WF23. A start will be made on the checking of details for the map of the Wild Dog Mountains. 
 + 
 +===Information Section:=== 
 + 
 +Is compiling a list of Transport facilities and costs. 
 + 
 +===Minutes Secretary:=== 
 + 
 +The position is again vacant. A volunteer is urgently required. 
 + 
 +===Federation Bushfire Patrol:=== 
 + 
 +The President is to go ahead with the organisation of 1952 inaugural meeting of the Patrol to be held in the rooms of the Big Sister Movement, Sixth Floor, Scott's Chambers, Hosking Place. If you are willing to give some help during 1952-53 then contact Paul Barnes without delay. 
 + 
 +===New Affiliations:=== 
 + 
 +Canberra Alpine Club and The Caloola Club. 
 + 
 +===Bungonia Gorge:=== 
 + 
 +Reported that explosions took place within the Bungonia Caves during a recent weekend, apparently caused by persons wishing to extend an opening from one cave to another. The Trustees will be asked whether they were informed of the proposed blasting. 
 + 
 +===Federation of Bushwalking Clubs insignia:=== 
 + 
 +It was agreed to call for the submission of designs for an insignia, such submissions to be with the Secretary of Federation before the December meeting. 
 + 
 +---- 
 + 
 +=====Paddy Made.===== 
 + 
 +It's a bit early..... 
 + 
 +For Christmas greetings... 
 + 
 +But... 
 + 
 +Paddy makes the request to all you good folk who contemplate going walking or camping over Christmas, to please let him have your orders for new gear - or your worn gear for repair - in good time to avoid the Christmas rush and to ease the strain on his factory staff. 
 + 
 +And for those... 
 + 
 +who don't know what Paddy sells well just run your eye over the decorated border of this page - then come right in and inspect the items for yourself. 
 + 
 +Remember... 
 + 
 +There's always some new model or gadget to be seen in the shop!! 
 + 
 +Paddy Pallin, Lightweight Camp Gear.
  
 +201 Castlereagh Street, Sydney. M2678
195211.txt · Last modified: 2016/06/28 13:10 by tyreless

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