196611
Differences
This shows you the differences between two versions of the page.
Both sides previous revisionPrevious revisionNext revision | Previous revisionNext revisionBoth sides next revision | ||
196611 [2015/11/25 17:49] – [THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER] paul_barton | 196611 [2015/12/03 22:28] – [My most memorable trip] paul_barton | ||
---|---|---|---|
Line 30: | Line 30: | ||
Jim Brown | Jim Brown | ||
- | With no new members to welcome - the first blank we've drawn for quite a while - we were able to plunge straight into business, and no doubt would have been through to correspondence in record | + | With no new members to welcome - the first blank we've drawn for quite a while - we were able to plunge straight into business, and no doubt would have been through to correspondence in record |
- | In correspondence we found that Cosmorama Press intended to publish | + | In correspondence we found that Cosmorama Press intended to publish a booklet on hiking, and was prepared to pay for material published, preferably about day walks. There were sundry enquiries about memberships, a letter from Helen Gray on the proposal to devote Crown land near Epping to a bowling club, thanks expressed to Mrs Page for her work on the production of the Walks Programme and to Warwick Deacock whose property in Kangaroo Valley is the alternative Reunion site. There were the NPA Christmas Cards, and Ed. Stretton later accepted the post of custodian. |
- | a booklet on hiking, and was prepared to pay for material published, | + | |
- | preferably about day walks There were sundry enquiries about memberships | + | |
- | a letter from Helen Gray on the proposal to devote Crown land near Epping | + | |
- | to a bowling club, thanks expressed to NTS. Page for her work on the production of the Walks Programme and to Warwick Deacock whose property in Kangaroo Valley is the alternative Reunion site. There were the NPA Christmas Cards, and Ed. Stretton later accepted the post of custodian. | + | |
- | rrilf Hilder will establish contact with the people publishing | + | |
- | After a false start on the August figures Treasurer Gordon Redmond presented a financial report showing 327 in the current account at the end of September, and Don Finch read the walks report, including a fairly full statement about Phil Butt's exploratory walk in the Mt. Cameron - Tambo Limb - Pommel Hill cnuntry | + | After a false start on the August figures, Treasurer Gordon Redmond presented a financial report showing |
- | Of the more orthodox walks it was recorded that Gladys Roberts day walk | + | Of the more orthodox walks, it was recorded that Gladys Roberts day walk along Cowan Creek on 18th September had a total attendance of 19, Margaret Dogstram led 10 members |
- | along Cowan Creek on 18th September had a total attendance of 199 Margaret Dogstram led 10 meMbers | + | |
- | Phil Butt presented a Federation Report - details already published in the October edition of the magazine, and there was a lengthy Parks | + | Phil Butt presented a Federation Report - details already published in the October edition of the magazine, and there was a lengthy Parks and Playgrounds Movement Report, referring mainly to bids to alienate portions of Crown Land for various organised sporting activities. The Epping Bowling Club got another mention, there had been objection |
- | and Playgrounds Movement Report, referring mainly to bids to alienate portions of Crown Land for various organised sporting activities. The Epping Bowling Club got another mention, there had been Objection | + | |
- | mining of limestone in the Colong area, and there was a report of the establishment of a golf course near Heathcote in Royal National Park. | + | |
- | There were prople | + | There were people |
- | At the outset of General Business, Frank Ashdown wanted to know why | + | At the outset of General Business, Frank Ashdown wanted to know why a non-member' |
- | a non-member' | + | |
- | well and favourably known to many members. | + | |
- | Your reporter then no doubt infuriated those people who regard meeting procedure as for the birds by a long-winded recital, but you maybe assured | + | Your reporter then no doubt infuriated those people who regard meeting procedure as for the birds by a long-winded recital, but you maybe assured that, having got it out of the system, he will have little to say on the subject for a long while. |
- | that, having got it out of the system, he will have little to say on the s subject for a long while. | + | |
- | Alex Colley drew attention to the magazine articles on manpower for | + | Alex Colley drew attention to the magazine articles on manpower for bushfire fighting, and suggested that, after people had a chance to digest it, he would seek volunteers. |
- | bushfire fighting, and suggested that, after people had a chance to digest | + | |
- | it, he would seek volunteers. | + | |
- | Now we wore up to the proposals for the Christmas Party, with the President urging us to stop shilly-shallying | + | Now we were up to the proposals for the Christmas Party, with the President urging us to stop shilly-shallying |
- | Information forthcoming indicated that the Eastwood Hall may already be booked throughout December, and Dot Butler suggested that, if the Gray's offer were accepted, a portable dance floor be NOT hired this time. The | + | Information forthcoming indicated that the Eastwood Hall may already be booked throughout December, and Dot Butler suggested that, if the Gray's offer were accepted, a portable dance floor be **not** |
ferry would probably be a large launch capable of carrying between 60 and 120 people who could be put ashore for a while on a Harbour island - supper would be an extra arrangement. | ferry would probably be a large launch capable of carrying between 60 and 120 people who could be put ashore for a while on a Harbour island - supper would be an extra arrangement. | ||
- | Joan Rigby moved acceptance of the Gray's offer and it met with general agreement. Some discussion between Friday nighters and Saturday nighters | + | Joan Rigby moved acceptance of the Gray's offer and it met with general agreement. Some discussion between Friday nighters and Saturday nighters followed, the choice finally falling on Saturday 10th December. If rain threatened, awnings could be hired. Joan and Frank Rigby and Dot Butler were appointed to conspire with the Social Secretary, who would have the usual power to co-opt. |
- | followed, the choice finally falling on Saturday 10th December. If rain threatened, awnings could. be hired. Joan and Frank Rigby and Dot Butler were appointed to conspire with the Social Secretary, who would have the usual | + | |
- | power to co-opt. | + | |
- | The President' | + | The President' |
- | also produced a motion to restore the Swimming Carnival in February. January | + | |
- | was mentioned as an alternative, | + | |
- | away during school holidays. It was mentioned that Nan Bourke would be willing to organise the swimming events and Owen Marks accepted leadership of the associated walk. | + | |
- | Ron Knightley said he had. been considering the situation disclosed at last month' | + | Ron Knightley said he had been considering the situation disclosed at last month' |
- | view of the recent constitutional | + | |
- | A further proposal by Ron had to do with camping facilities at Sawpit Creek: his resolution that wo write the Kosciusko State Park Trust, commending them on the work done there, but suggesting an extension of washroom and toilet facilities was carried. | + | A further proposal by Ron had to do with camping facilities at Sawpit Creek; his resolution that we write the Kosciusko State Park Trust, commending them on the work done there, but suggesting an extension of washroom and toilet facilities was carried. |
- | The North Epping Bowling Club project, referred to several times earlier, now got an airing | + | The North Epping Bowling Club project, referred to several times earlier, now got an airing. 70 had already put the Parks and Playgrounds people on the scent, but it was now agreed that we also protest to the local council, especially as some reports indicated that, in addition to the 2.5 acres mentioned, there seemed a possibility |
- | With Jack Gentles reminder that John Holley was now an Assistant Treasurer and had his pencil sharpened to collect outstanding subs,:the evening came to an end. | + | With Jack Gentles reminder that John Holley was now an Assistant Treasurer and had his pencil sharpened to collect outstanding subs, the evening came to an end. |
- | ..n n............, | + | |
- | EVERYONE IS INVITED TO THE CHRISTMAS PARTY | + | | **Everyone is invited to the Christmas Party**\\ ** to be held at Helen and George Gray's house**\\ |
- | TO BE HELD AT. HELEN AND GEORGE GRAY'S HOUSE, | + | |
- | SATURDAY, 10th DECEMBER, 1966. BRING | + | |
- | THE CHILDREN AND HAVE A BARBA CUE | + | |
- | BEFORE TEE EVENING FESTIVITIES | + | |
- | BEGIN. | + | |
=====Sleeping in the bush===== | =====Sleeping in the bush===== | ||
Line 96: | Line 72: | ||
Jess Martin | Jess Martin | ||
- | "You sleep out not on the ground: Aren't you scared of snakes, spiders, falling trees, catching cold and other (unimaginable) horrors? You cannot | + | "You sleep out-**not** on the ground! Aren't you scared of snakes, spiders, falling trees, catching cold and other (unimaginable) horrors? You cannot |
- | reaction has been met. | + | |
- | Of course, when I first bushwalked I did not sloop. To each had | + | Of course, when I first bushwalked I did not sleep. We each had a blanket and ground sheet and sang and talked around the fire until we could keep awake no longer. Then we dozed, in our blankets, near the fire and when the cold became unbearable in the early hours, someone put more wood on and, once more warm, we slept a little longer. As the Sydney sandstone area abounds in rocky overhangs, we soon learned to make ourselves more comfortable, |
- | a blanket and ground sheet and sang and talked around the fire until we could keep awake no longer. Then we dozed, in our blankets, near the fire and when the cold became unbearable in the early hours, someone put more wood on and, once more warm, we slept a little longer. As the Sydney sandstone area abounds in rocky overhangs, we soon learned to make ourselves more comfortable, | + | |
On my first Easter trip a member of the party erected his tent for us and laughed heartily next morning at we four girls sleeping with our heads on the downward slope. | On my first Easter trip a member of the party erected his tent for us and laughed heartily next morning at we four girls sleeping with our heads on the downward slope. | ||
- | Then we acquired sleeping bags and tout (bless Paddy Pallin) and our | + | |
- | nights were warmer and much more comfortable. | + | Then we acquired sleeping bags and tent (bless Paddy Pallin) and our nights were warmer and much more comfortable. |
- | Since that time I have acquired the gift of being able to sleep in | + | |
- | many strange places. My very conventional | + | Since that time I have acquired the gift of being able to sleep in many strange places. My very conventional |
- | county parks but I did not believe in worrying Mother | + | |
- | Katoomba to Kanangra Walls were told by one Mother | + | Sleeping in the bush has its own peculiar joys; the warm sleeping bag and cosy tent after relaxing in good company by a bright fire; listening drowsily to the sound of flowing water; the songs of birds in the early dawn, the crackle of the breakfast fire and lyrebird choruses and sunsets in the evening; perhaps the bark of a fox or the howl of a dingo on a clear frosty night when the sky is brilliant with stars; and the knowledge that one has a full day before one to enjoy the clear, crisp air filled with the scent of the bush, before returning to the city. |
- | Sleeping in the bush has its own peculiar joys: the warm sleeping bag | + | |
- | and cosy tent after relaxing in good company by a bright fire: listening drowsily to the sound of flowing water: the songs of birds in the early dawn, the crackle of the breakfast fire, and lyrebird choruses and sunsets in the evening: perhaps the bark of a fox or the howl of a dingo on a clear | + | Even the nights when mishaps occur are enjoyable in retrospect. It has rained all day and the fire is difficult to start then smokes. Or the ground is hard and resists attempts to insert |
- | frosty night when the sky is brilliant with stars; | + | |
- | Even the nights when mishaps occur are enjoyable in retrospect. | + | |
- | It has rained all day and the fire is difficult to start then smokes. Or the ground is hard and-resists attempts to insert | + | |
- | bracken or bark for a bed, or the only flattish ground is covered with | + | |
- | stones | + | |
- | a distance away anr1 the first sign is a sensation of floating and dampness, with a small stream running through | + | |
The uninitiated cannot appreciate how comfortable and enjoyable it is to sleep in the bush, and look most unbelieving when informed that one sleeps soundest and most restfully when camped in the bush. | The uninitiated cannot appreciate how comfortable and enjoyable it is to sleep in the bush, and look most unbelieving when informed that one sleeps soundest and most restfully when camped in the bush. | ||
Line 121: | Line 92: | ||
Observer. | Observer. | ||
- | Population | + | Population |
- | named Tanya. | + | |
- | the floor over you" instead of producing masterpieces in the darkroom. | + | Stan Madden says that the parents can expect no better than his own experience with babies, which he describes as "just an alimentary canal with a loud noise at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other. |
- | Stan Madden says that the parents can expect no better than his own experience with babies, which he describes as "just an alimentary canal with a loud noise at one end and no sense of responsibility at | + | |
- | the other." | + | March of Progress in Royal National Park? The P.M.G. has approved |
- | March of Progress in Royal National Park? The P.M.G. has approved | + | |
- | Another news item tells us that the Park staff spend three days each week cleaning up litter left behind by week-end | + | Another news item tells us that the Park staff spend three days each week cleaning up litter left behind by weekend |
- | Congratulations to Bob and Lindsey Hawkins on the arrival of their | + | |
- | son - John. Lindsey was a bushwalker who married one of the rock-climbers, | + | Congratulations to Bob and Lindsey Hawkins on the arrival of their son John. Lindsey was a bushwalker who married one of the rock-climbers, |
- | oTqa 9? gieg c3 E3 goA0017 '03 | + | |
- | faajeeH 81 4seaoAa 'Li tsaeq sTS 'ci guasxeH IT ftrcq-sq u 6 | + | |
- | g' | + | |
- | ...r1+, | + | |
- | --, TiatatvIttft....L8.-lethTad 9e . | + | |
- | fa7pAs 178 tua z- fbnsua I3 41,m0S '61 goTLI3`eFi '91 leqq20S | + | |
- | 1.3.14aa 'VT gllouX 'a f.2TEE | + | |
- | .9 eaed uo paamssoao oq. gagikstiv | + | |
- | alurrapePlewsmotteamaltlwatttr.4 | + | |
- | ' | + | |
- | There is no doubt that the HFrame is now established in popularity, but Lt ny people | + | |
- | who are short in stature or who wish to carry small loads look askance at those large packs, which can easily hold 60 to 80 lbs. | + | |
- | We at Paddy' | + | |
- | gap in. the range of HFrames here and s4 about designing something to fill | + | |
- | the gap. Several prototypes were made and | + | |
- | alterbd, but finally we produced a pack which we have christened the " | + | |
- | It will suit tall or short people but is | + | |
- | particularly designed for those with short | + | |
- | backs. It will easily hold 40 lbs of camp gear and food. It looks authentic with | + | |
- | eyeleted gussets and a roomy back pocket.. | + | |
- | It Is reasonable priced at 317.95. If you | + | |
- | want a new pack come and inspect, the " | + | |
- | Paddymade of course. | + | |
- | PADDY PALLIN PTY LTD. | + | |
- | 1st Floor, 109a Bathurst St., SYDNEY. 26-2685. | + | |
- | PADDY PA LLI N [3: | + | |
- | Lightweight Camp Gear | + | |
- | B A/12685 | + | |
- | 0. Tito 0y4-41v UetxmIkoz, Nowtt*opt 19dd | + | |
=====SBW Crossword===== | =====SBW Crossword===== | ||
Line 221: | Line 164: | ||
=====Federation report===== | =====Federation report===== | ||
- | October | + | **October 1966.** |
- | SOUTH-MST TASMANIA. The Federation decided to lend its support to a movement directed at requesting the Tasmanian Government to promulgate an overall master plan for the hydro-electric development from rivers in South West Tasmania, before any work be proceeded with, in order to prederve | + | **South West Tasmania**. The Federation decided to lend its support to a movement directed at requesting the Tasmanian Government to promulgate an overall master plan for the hydro-electric development from rivers in South West Tasmania, before any work be proceeded with, in order to preserve |
- | TIANJARRA FIRING RANGE. Advice from the Army indicated that artillery | + | |
- | practice is still taking place in this area, particularly on week days. | + | **Tianjarra Fire Range.** Advice from the Army indicated that artillery practice is still taking place in this area, particularly on week days. The army has been requested to give as much prior notice as possible of firings so that the Federation may have more time to advise clubs. Known information on danger dates is available at Paddy Pallin' |
- | The army has been requested to give as much prior notice as possible of firings so that the Federation may have more time to advise clubs. Known information on danger dates is available at Paddy Pallin' | + | |
- | CLYDE-DUDA7ANG AREA. The Conservation Bureau reported that the holders of permissive occupancies are objecting to proposals that National Parks be established in the area as this would abolish existing grazing leases. The Coast & Mountain | + | **Clyde-Budawang area.** The Conservation Bureau reported that the holders of permissive occupancies are objecting to proposals that National Parks be established in the area as this would abolish existing grazing leases. The Coast & Mountain |
- | COLONG AREA. New caves are reported to have been discovered in the Colong Area which strengthens the case for prohibition of lime-stone quarrying. The Minister for Lands has been advised of the discovery. | + | |
- | DOUDDI NATURAL PARK. A move is afoot to have leases granted | + | **Colong area.** New caves are reported to have been discovered in the Colong Area which strengthens the case for prohibition of lime-stone quarrying. The Minister for Lands has been advised of the discovery. |
- | the appropriate authority. | + | |
- | GROSE RIVER. The Federation requested information as to the outcome of a request for a working party to help clear the river track of fallen logs. | + | **Bouddi Natural Park.** A move is afoot to have leases granted |
- | SEARCH AND RESCUE DEMONSTRATION. The demonstration was reported as being very successful but insufficient support is being given by the Clubs in the prior organisation required, most of the work being left to the Federation President. One participant was reported as being bitten on the nose by a | + | |
- | dog & He is said to have had an ample nose to attract the animal. The Sydney Sky Divers | + | **Grose River.** The Federation requested information as to the outcome of a request for a working party to help clear the river track of fallen logs. |
- | ST. ALBANS MILITARY MAP. This map is reported to be very inaccurate in many details and should not be implicitly relied upon. It does not conform in many respects with aerial photographs. | + | |
- | NATIONAL PARK SERVICE. The Federation has made an offer to the Service | + | **Search and Rescue Demonstration.** The demonstration was reported as being very successful but insufficient support is being given by the Clubs in the prior organisation required, most of the work being left to the Federation President. One participant was reported as being bitten on the nose by a dog & he is said to have had an ample nose to attract the animal. The Sydney Sky Divers |
- | to help train N.P.S. rangers in Search and Rescue techniques, as this will be part of the rangers' | + | |
- | GROSE RIVER ACCESS. It laps been established beyond all doubt that the well established | + | **St Albans Military Map.** This map is reported to be very inaccurate in many details and should not be implicitly relied upon. It does not conform in many respects with aerial photographs. |
- | Woods Creek and come out through Grose Wold. The holders of the private lands are very antibushwalker | + | |
- | OTFORD AREA. It is reported that a man with a rifle is shooting in this area, particularly near the Palm Jungle. As the area is a reserve, any | + | **National Park service.** The Federation has made an offer to the Service to help train N.P.S. rangers in Search and Rescue techniques, as this will be part of the rangers' |
- | information as to his identity would be appreciated by the Federation. | + | |
- | DECEMBER FEDERLTION MEETING. Owing to the advent of Christmas, the normal date will be advanced and clubs will be notified as soon as possible as to the actual date. | + | **Grose River access.** It has been established beyond all doubt that the well established |
+ | |||
+ | **Otford area.** It is reported that a man with a rifle is shooting in this area, particularly near the Palm Jungle. As the area is a reserve, any information as to his identity would be appreciated by the Federation. | ||
+ | |||
+ | **December Federation Meeting.** Owing to the advent of Christmas, the normal date will be advanced and clubs will be notified as soon as possible as to the actual date. | ||
=====Not what they used to be===== | =====Not what they used to be===== | ||
Line 247: | Line 194: | ||
Jim Brown | Jim Brown | ||
- | Just recently I bought copies of the two inches to one mile maps of | + | Just recently I bought copies of the two inches to one mile maps of Burragorang, Nattai and Yerranderie. I admit to buying them with bad grace, thinking how we had walked over this area for years and years by inadequate and sometimes misleading maps, and now, when most of the place is out of bounds |
- | Durragorang, Nattai and Yerranderie. I admit to buying them with bad grace, thinking how we had walked over this area for years and years by inadequate and sometimes misleading maps, and now, when most of the place is out of bounds | + | |
- | Later, when I got around to looking at these maps I felt something like | + | |
- | the housewife who has bought the Family King Size (or " | + | |
- | wrapper, costing somewhat more than it used to do. After all, the old inchtothemile mar embraced an area of 30 minutes of longitude by 15 minutes of latitude, but this improved version covered only 15 minutes by 7j lat. | + | |
- | However the 'price was different | + | |
- | Then I took a closer look and my dim old eyes found something that aid please them. I could actually read almost all the map without squinting. This was interesting because, for some years past, I have been complaining | + | |
- | that the standard of cartography was steadily deteriorating, | + | |
- | were being pr nted as a fuzzy rustred mess instead of decent intelligible lines. | + | |
- | 6.4 | + | |
- | I had realised, of course, that this was because the hills were getting steeper, so that it was necessary to print contour-lines closer together, but I still felt it was regrettable that the contours were so fuzzy that you had to hold the map at arm's length to see it at all, and then you couldn' | + | |
- | November, 1966 | + | |
- | m=. | + | |
- | IIIM | + | Later, when I got around to looking at these maps I felt something like the housewife who has bought |
- | Did I hear you say thp:t the hills can't get steeper? Rubbish. Twenty years ago 7aterfall railway station had a signboard "742 ft above sea level." | + | |
- | This set my mind off on a chain reaction, all hinging | + | |
- | of my vintage says so, so it must be right. I've noticed it myself. These | + | |
- | days June and July are too bleak for overnight jaunts. No, that's not quite | + | |
- | right. The real trouble is they' | + | |
- | good deal more clothing to keep comfortable, | + | |
- | Now, take that jaunt in May last when I ambled along the scenic section | + | |
- | of the Mudgee railway line between Excelsior and Clandulla. I camped the night just outside of ITeenga tunnel, with a view out over the Captertee Valley to Tyan Pic, Gundangaroo, | + | |
- | Immediately I heard, far away down the line, the slow patient chugging | + | |
- | I stuch my head out, looked out of the tent at the black tunnel mouth, and the sound faded. For several | + | |
- | One way I have found of getting over this winter walking problem is to | + | |
- | tackle overproof day walks. Admittedly, it moans a really early start, usually between 4.0 and 5.0 a m, on the Saturday, with a fairly late return, but with a bit of low cunning | + | |
- | A couple of examples of the last two winters. From Mount Banks down | + | |
- | Pearces Pass to the Grose on through Blue Gum (with white frost all over the shadowy tree tops at 9.30 a m. it was the week-6nd before the big snowfall) down another five miles to Coal Mine Creek, up into the saddle behind Mt. Caley and back along the tops to Mt. Banks and the Dell Road. In August this year from Medlow Gap down White Dog fire trail to the Cox, upriver a couple of miles, returning up Spotted Dog and Splendour Rock to Medlow Gap, | + | |
- | finishing with just enough daylight to get back off the fire trail before | + | |
- | headlights were needed. | + | |
- | Again from Coates farm on Starlight' | + | Then I took a closer look and my dim old eyes found something that did please them. I could actually read almost all the map without squinting. This was interesting because, for some years past, I have been complaining that the standard of cartography was steadily deteriorating, |
- | In these days of motorisation I feel there is some future in the extended day walk for those who have difficulty in teeing up regular overnight jaunts. Just the drive through the deserted suburban streets on a pre-dawn Saturday has quit6'a deal to commend it. It isn't often yours is the only vehicle in a half mile stretch of Parramatta Road! | + | |
- | Of course, you miss a lot too. 7hen you should be setting up camp and | + | I had realised, of course, that this was because the hills were getting steeper, so that it was necessary to print contour-lines closer together, but I still felt it was regrettable that the contours were so fuzzy that you had to hold the map at arms length to see it at all, and then you couldn' |
- | watching the play of sunset light on mountain and stream, you're pushing | + | |
- | weary limbs up the last pass. Then you should be relaxing those weary limbs before camp fire and watching the coffee bubble, you're dodging Saturday afternoon drunks on the Hume Highway. Still you can't have it all ways, | + | Did I hear you say that the hills can't get steeper? Rubbish. Twenty years ago Waterfall railway station had a signboard "742 ft above sea level." |
- | and since this article is by way of a formless meandering - the idle thoughts of a not entirely idle fellow - it's an idea worth disclosing. | + | |
- | Talking about motorised walking, I never cease to be impressed with the difference it has wrought in the scope of travel. Ten years or so hack. | + | This set my mind off on a chain reaction, all hinging around the motif that things are not what they used to be; in fact, they probably never have been. Another thing that has deteriorated is the climate almost everyone of my vintage says so, so it must be right. I've noticed it myself. These days June and July are too bleak for overnight jaunts. No, that's not quite right. The real trouble is they' |
- | was almost essential to have a long weekend to do anything in the SassafrasRenwick-Castle-Currockbilly area: to get out into the Coricudgy territory was usually an Easter project. There was all the business of organising hire cars or taxi's and hoping they'd pick you up at the appointed place and time - and the anxiety of getting | + | |
- | I can't say I have so many regrets about all this. After all, the | + | Now, take that jaunt in May last when I ambled along the scenic section of the Mudgee railway line between Excelsior and Clandulla. I camped the night just outside of Weenga tunnel, with a view out over the Captertee Valley to Tyan Pic, Gundangaroo, |
- | walkers' | + | |
- | abolition of steam, and of course, if I get started on that subject I shall definitely claim things are not what they used to be. In fact, they' | + | Immediately I heard, far away down the line, the slow patient chugging of a steam locomotive toiling up the long grade from Captertee. After a bit I stuck my head out, looked out of the tent at the black tunnel mouth, and the sound faded. For several minutes I endured the biting, frosty air, then crept back into the bag, and immediately because aware of the solid tramp of the engine exhaust no closer, no lounder, but steady and rhythmic. It was only after popping my head in and out of the bag zeveral times that I realised I was hearing my own heart beat. |
+ | |||
+ | One way I have found of getting over this winter walking problem is to tackle overproof day walks. Admittedly, it means a really early start, usually between 4 and 5 a m, on the Saturday, with a fairly late return, but with a bit of low cunning one can fit in a trip that would rate as a reasonable 1.5 to 2 day jaunt carrying full gear. | ||
+ | |||
+ | A couple of examples of the last two winters. From Mount Banks down Pearces Pass to the Grose on through Blue Gum (with white frost all over the shadowy tree tops at 9.30 a m.-it was the weekend before the big snowfall) down another five miles to Coal Mine Creek, up into the saddle behind Mt. Caley and back along the tops to Mt. Banks and the Bell Road. In August this year from Medlow Gap down White Dog fire trail to the Cox, upriver a couple of miles, returning up Spotted Dog and Splendour Rock to Medlow Gap, finishing with just enough daylight to get back off the fire trail before headlights were needed. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Again from Coates farm on Starlight' | ||
+ | |||
+ | In these days of motorisation I feel there is some future in the extended day walk for those who have difficulty in teeing up regular overnight jaunts. Just the drive through the deserted suburban streets on a pre-dawn Saturday has quite a deal to commend it. It isn't often yours is the only vehicle in a half mile stretch of Parramatta Road! | ||
+ | |||
+ | Of course, you miss a lot too. When you should be setting up camp and watching the play of sunset light on mountain and stream, you're pushing weary limbs up the last pass. Then you should be relaxing those weary limbs before camp fire and watching the coffee bubble, you're dodging Saturday afternoon drunks on the Hume Highway. Still you can't have it all ways, and since this article is by way of a formless meandering - the idle thoughts of a not entirely idle fellow - it's an idea worth disclosing. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Talking about motorised walking, I never cease to be impressed with the difference it has wrought in the scope of travel. Ten years or so back it was almost essential to have a long weekend to do anything in the Sassafras-Renwick-Castle-Currockbilly area. To get out into the Coricudgy territory was usually an Easter project. There was all the business of organising hire cars or taxi's and hoping they'd pick you up at the appointed place and time - and the anxiety of getting | ||
+ | |||
+ | I can't say I have so many regrets about all this. After all, the walkers' | ||
=====Thirty Years ago===== | =====Thirty Years ago===== | ||
- | This is a very thin edition of The Sydney | + | This is a very thin edition of The Sydney |
- | them. Editorial, September, 1936. | + | |
- | A popular trip was to Yerranderie and the Colong Caves, the popularity | + | A popular trip was to Yerranderie and the Colong Caves, the popularity being due to cheap bus fares from Camden |
- | being due to cheap bus fares from Camden | + | |
- | It supplies a long-felt want for an easily pitched light-weight one-man tent that will hold two at a pinch - and the price for this | + | Jean Trimble, |
- | Peerless Paddymade Paragon i best quality Japara - one guinea. Paddy' | + | |
- | November, 1966 The Sydney Bushwalker 13. | + | |
- | Jean Trimble, | + | |
- | on their success especially as they had scarcely a fine day. They had to | + | |
- | travel most of the time through mist ana camp out twice. September 1936. | + | |
=====My most memorable trip===== | =====My most memorable trip===== | ||
Line 308: | Line 236: | ||
Jess Martin | Jess Martin | ||
- | It isP. hard to choose one particular trip - there have been so many: arduous, tiring, lazy, generally pleasurable and all on which humouraps | + | It is hard to choose one particular trip - there have been so many; arduous, tiring, lazy, generally pleasurable and all on which humorous |
- | My first overnight trip in the bush? We left CamPbelltown | + | |
- | on 25th January (Anniversary Day was then held. on the day on which the 26th | + | My first overnight trip in the bush? We left Campbelltown |
- | fell - Thursday). We walked out along the 7edderburn | + | |
- | and Minerva Pool, where we selpt for the remainder of the night under a | + | |
- | brilliantly starlit sky, and left early in the morning to follow O' | + | |
- | We had tea near the waterfall above the 7oo1wash | + | |
- | to Sydney. In those days Bushwalkers invariably stayed out for the evening meal. | + | |
Blue Gum Forest has always been a favourite place, with its own | Blue Gum Forest has always been a favourite place, with its own | ||
- | special atmosphere. In full moonlight it is most beautiful, but one moonlit 8-Hour weekend there was magic, and a friend and. I sometimes chuckle reminiscently about the happenings that weekend. I have entered and left Blue Gum by every possible route, even Orang.;-Outang Pass. One weekend I was even persuaded to climb on to Mt g King George from the valley floor and spent the night out clad only in shorts and shirt, in a snowstorm. Fortunately, | + | special atmosphere. In full moonlight it is most beautiful, but one moonlit 8-Hour weekend there was magic, and a friend and I sometimes chuckle reminiscently about the happenings that weekend. I have entered and left Blue Gum by every possible route, even Orang Outang Pass. One weekend I was even persuaded to climb on to Mt King George from the valley floor and spent the night out clad only in shorts and shirt, in a snowstorm. Fortunately, |
- | we had matches with us and were able to light a fire, returning to the Forest in daylight: a most uncomfortable night. | + | |
- | Pigeon House Mountain area has always had its charm? On my first visit a girl member of the party mentioned she was terrified of cattle, and was | + | Pigeon House Mountain area has always had its charm. On my first visit a girl member of the party mentioned she was terrified of cattle, and was told only the "bull heifers" |
- | told only the "bull heifers" | + | |
- | Just at the time the Japanese came into the war we had again an Easter trip in that area, travelling through from Pigeon House, over Wog Wog Mt. | + | Just at the time when the Japanese came into the war we had again an Easter trip in that area, travelling through from Pigeon House, over Wog Wog Mt. to the Braidwood Nerriga |
- | to the DraidwoodiNerriga | + | |
- | bridge. After travelling up the wrong spur, and then down again just as night fell, we camped on the creek, heavy rain failling | + | The Harts were running a sheep property, also gathering eucalyptus leaves and distilling the oil; they showed us how their plant worked. We went to the house and met the daughter |
- | 14. The Sydney Bushwalker November, 1966 | + | |
- | and early morning. The next morning we walked up the correct spur and had | + | Then the old deaf man had another bright idea - we were an acrobatic troup down on our luck, walking through to give a show in Braidwood. He himself had ridden across to the Harts to make arrangements for the sale of a horse. Mr. Hart was writing a note for him to the dealer about the horse and wrote, "The 'orse will be 'ere on Wednesday" |
- | lunch in a shallow upland valley. The tents were spread out to dry and some of the party were doing gymnastics when an elderly | + | |
- | by. He ignored our greetings and speeded | + | A trip from Mongarlow over Mt. Currockbilly was also full of incident and humour. We found we were travelling in the wrong direction (our leader, again being very stubborn) which cost us half a day. The mountain was covered with thick sally and the only spots clear enough on top for camping were lyrebird dancing mounds. Water was scarce, but I think the party had sufficient for the essentials, drawn from a hole at the base of a fallen tree but I did miss my nightly bath. |
- | he returned, followed by two men who carried shotguns. | + | |
- | He told the Harts that "enemy parachute troops had landed, some were naked, and he hail better lock up his daught | + | We trod patiently up and down over Mt. Currockbilly, |
- | those b------ would do". The younger man of the two realised we were a harmless bushwalking party. | + | |
- | The Harts were running a sheep property, also gathering eucalyptus leaves and distilling the oil; they showed us how their plant worked. We went to the house and met the daurhter | + | Another time on our homeward journey we stopped |
- | Then the old deaf man had another bright idea we were an acrobatic troup down on our luck, walking through to give a show in Draidwood. He himself had ridden across to the Harts to make arrangements for the sale of a horse. Mr. Hart was writing a note for him to the dealer about the horse and wrote, "The 'orse will 7ore 'ere on Wednesday" | + | the police decided |
- | A trip from Mongarlow over Mt. Currockbilly was also full of incident and humour. We found we were travelling in the wrong direction (our leader, again being very stubborn) which cost us half a day. The mountain was covered with thick sally and the only spots clear enough on top for camping were lyrebird dancing mounds. Water was scarce, but I think the party haa sufficient for the essentials, drawn from a hole at the base of a fallen tree but I did miss my nightly bath. | + | |
- | We trod patiently up and down over Mt. Currockbilly, | + | |
- | replied, " | + | |
- | We were on the Clyde for lunch and Phil-set off ahead to let the bus driver know we were coming, even if a little late. Once again, through our | + | |
- | leader differing in opinion with some of the party, we travelled up and down some wrong spurs but eventually cut the track and., walking the last couple | + | |
- | of mile' | + | |
- | which he iid | + | |
- | The post office employees at Milton nearly collapsed when at least fourteen people walked in to send telegrams. | + | |
- | Another time on our homeward journey we stored | + | |
- | An inebriated. man had parked his bicycle just ' | + | |
- | ' | + | |
- | driver and the rest_of the party were becoming very restless, wishing to - Proceed | + | |
On all these trips there has always been someone to make a witty | On all these trips there has always been someone to make a witty | ||
- | remark when conditions were difficult, and the general good humour in the party ,helped to relieve our tiredness and apprehension of the next Obstacle. | + | remark when conditions were difficult, and the general good humour in the party, helped to relieve our tiredness and apprehension of the next obstacle. |
=====Park shanty towns must go===== | =====Park shanty towns must go===== |
196611.txt · Last modified: 2016/08/18 10:55 by tyreless