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Established June 1931 | Established June 1931 | ||
- | A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Box 4476 G.P.O., Sydney, 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.30 pm at the Cahill Community Centre (Upper Hall), 34 Falcon Street, | + | A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers, Box 4476 G.P.O., Sydney, 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.30 pm at the Cahill Community Centre (Upper Hall), 34 Falcon Street, |
- | |EDITOR: | + | |Editor |
- | |BUSINESS MANAGER: | + | |Business Manager |
- | |PRODUCTION MANAGER: | + | |Production Manager |
- | |TYPIST: | + | |Typist |
- | |DUPLICATOR OPERATORS: | + | |Duplicator Operators |
- | ==== JUNE, 1984. ==== | + | ==== JUNE 1984 ==== |
| | | Page| | | | | Page| | ||
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|Obituary - Anice Duncan | |Obituary - Anice Duncan | ||
|Eastwood Camping Centre Advertisement | |Eastwood Camping Centre Advertisement | ||
- | |Moon Madness - S.&..R Night Shift |Gordon Lee | 9| | + | |Moon Madness - S.& |
|Editor' | |Editor' | ||
|The Don Finch Moveable Re-union, 1984. |Dot Butler | |The Don Finch Moveable Re-union, 1984. |Dot Butler | ||
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|Advantages of Offset Printer | |Advantages of Offset Printer | ||
- | ===== FLORIDA EVERGLADES AND THE KEYS. ===== | + | ===== FLORIDA EVERGLADES AND THE KEYS ===== |
- | by Allan Wyborn. | + | by Allan Wyborn |
- | __Off to Florida.__\\ | + | **Off to Florida**\\ |
It was at the and of August. We were staying with friends near Washington D.C. and debating how to get down to the Everglades. The shortest return trip by road to Key West is 4800 km, and time was running out. The alternative was to fly down to Miami, hire a car and use motels for few days. Our friends have an apartment in southern Florida, and told us of the heat down there at this time of year, so Alice decided to stay with them and our Dodge motorvan until I returned. Inside half an hour the Air Florida plane was booked for the next morning, a Chevette car arranged to be at Miami Airport, and motels booked. Such is the efficiency of travelling in the United States. | It was at the and of August. We were staying with friends near Washington D.C. and debating how to get down to the Everglades. The shortest return trip by road to Key West is 4800 km, and time was running out. The alternative was to fly down to Miami, hire a car and use motels for few days. Our friends have an apartment in southern Florida, and told us of the heat down there at this time of year, so Alice decided to stay with them and our Dodge motorvan until I returned. Inside half an hour the Air Florida plane was booked for the next morning, a Chevette car arranged to be at Miami Airport, and motels booked. Such is the efficiency of travelling in the United States. | ||
The plane trip to Miami lasted two hours, and there as a brand new Chevette waiting for me. The car, although small, was fully air-conditioned, | The plane trip to Miami lasted two hours, and there as a brand new Chevette waiting for me. The car, although small, was fully air-conditioned, | ||
- | __"The Glades" | + | **"The Glades" |
This Trail skirts the northern boundary of the Everglades National Park, which occupies 600,000 hectares of the southern tip of Florida, but is only a small part of the vast, complex ecological system of the Everglades, commonly called "The Glades", | This Trail skirts the northern boundary of the Everglades National Park, which occupies 600,000 hectares of the southern tip of Florida, but is only a small part of the vast, complex ecological system of the Everglades, commonly called "The Glades", | ||
Along the Trail at Coopertown I had my first ride in an airboat, skimming over the grass at high speed. The flat-bottomed boat had a three metre propeller and a large air rudder. I had a turn as pilot seated up high with an expansive look over the Glades. The next stop was to be the 20 km Shark Valley Tram ride to the Observation Tower, but due to the heavy wet season, the track was under water, so no tram ride. It was a pity; as there are lots of alligators in a pool at the bottom of the Tower. If you follow the Tamiani Trail west to the Gulf of Mexico you reach Everglades City in the Ten Thousand. Islands area, where the Wilderness Waterway canoe trip starts, finishing at Flamingo and taking seven days. However, as I did not have the days to spare, I returned to just south of Miami and visited the palatial Vizcaya Mansion, the old home of the Duponts. Although the interior and exterior were magnificent, | Along the Trail at Coopertown I had my first ride in an airboat, skimming over the grass at high speed. The flat-bottomed boat had a three metre propeller and a large air rudder. I had a turn as pilot seated up high with an expansive look over the Glades. The next stop was to be the 20 km Shark Valley Tram ride to the Observation Tower, but due to the heavy wet season, the track was under water, so no tram ride. It was a pity; as there are lots of alligators in a pool at the bottom of the Tower. If you follow the Tamiani Trail west to the Gulf of Mexico you reach Everglades City in the Ten Thousand. Islands area, where the Wilderness Waterway canoe trip starts, finishing at Flamingo and taking seven days. However, as I did not have the days to spare, I returned to just south of Miami and visited the palatial Vizcaya Mansion, the old home of the Duponts. Although the interior and exterior were magnificent, | ||
- | __The Gumbo Limbo Trees.__\\ | + | **The Gumbo Limbo Trees**\\ |
On south by Highway 1 to stay that night at a beautiful air-conditioned motel at Homestead, | On south by Highway 1 to stay that night at a beautiful air-conditioned motel at Homestead, | ||
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The Gumbo Limbo Trail, at a few metres higher elevation, is through dense undergrowth in which wildlife is well hidden, but there were many large colourful tree snails on the smooth-barked gumbo trees. Also seen here are orchids and air plants, which latter are not parasitic, but use the trees only for support, while taking their nourishment and moisture from the air. | The Gumbo Limbo Trail, at a few metres higher elevation, is through dense undergrowth in which wildlife is well hidden, but there were many large colourful tree snails on the smooth-barked gumbo trees. Also seen here are orchids and air plants, which latter are not parasitic, but use the trees only for support, while taking their nourishment and moisture from the air. | ||
- | Past the Long Pine campsite I went to Pinelands with its stands of South Florida Slash Pine. This pine is regularly fired either by man and lightning in order to get rid of the hardwood undergrowth before it takes over, but the pine trees with their thick bark are almost fireproof. | + | Past the Long Pine campsite I went to Pinelands with its stands of South Florida Slash Pine. This pine is regularly fired either by man and lightning in order to get rid of the hardwood undergrowth before it takes over, but the pine trees with their thick bark are almost fireproof. Here, I saw the great white egret, blue herons and white-tail deer. Other wildlife there, but no seen, include raccoon, opossum, roseate spoonbill and bald eagle. |
- | __Pa-hay-okee (River of Grass)__\\ | + | **Pa-hay-okee (River of Grass)**\\ |
- | A few miles further on, the road went over the Rock Reef Pass at the "high" | + | A few miles further on, the road went over the Rock Reef Pass at the “high” elevation of 0.9 metres above sea level. Then to the 0bservation Tower, at Pa-hay-okee (river of grass - Seminole Indian.), with its panoramic view of the Glades - a wide expanse of sawgrass marshlands dotted with tree islands. Mahogany Hummock, at two metres above mean sea level, boasts the largest mahogany tree in the United States, seen from the usual boardwalk. I was fortunate to see here the famous barred owl, and high up in a tree a red-shouldered hawk waited to make its swoop. A few miles further along the road at Paurote' |
- | There were rare palms and many blue herons at this pond, and it is here that the mangrove ecosystem commences, where southward-creeping glades water meets salty water. The red and. other mangroves are easily recognised by their stilt roots, and grow to l0 metres high. They act as nurseries for smaller marine animals and their leaves are the foundation for many food chains. | + | There were rare palms and many blue herons at this pond, and it is here that the mangrove ecosystem commences, where southward-creeping glades water meets salty water. The red and other mangroves are easily recognised by their stilt roots, and grow to l0 metres high. They act as nurseries for smaller marine animals and their leaves are the foundation for many food chains. |
At Nine Mile Pond I was very lucky to see the scarce roseate spoonbill. With its white plumage and distinctive rose-colour on its wings, it stood out against the dark green of the mangroves, but too far away for a photo. This bird has a spatula-shaped bill to strain the marine life from the water. In the early days it was probably mistaken for a flamingo, hence the name Flamingo (Visitor Centre), where there were many roseates. At West Lake, which connects to Florida Bay via Alligator Creek and used as a canoe trail, I had been told there were several alligators about, but a quiet stalk along the Mangrove Trail revealed none. Here the fresh water alligator and the salt water crocodile are known to swim together. | At Nine Mile Pond I was very lucky to see the scarce roseate spoonbill. With its white plumage and distinctive rose-colour on its wings, it stood out against the dark green of the mangroves, but too far away for a photo. This bird has a spatula-shaped bill to strain the marine life from the water. In the early days it was probably mistaken for a flamingo, hence the name Flamingo (Visitor Centre), where there were many roseates. At West Lake, which connects to Florida Bay via Alligator Creek and used as a canoe trail, I had been told there were several alligators about, but a quiet stalk along the Mangrove Trail revealed none. Here the fresh water alligator and the salt water crocodile are known to swim together. | ||
- | At the end of the road I arrived at Flamingo, where there are full facilities including visitor centre with museum, boating marina and campground. Flamingos are very seldom seen there now, but I saw plenty of brown pelicans and "laughing" | + | At the end of the road I arrived at Flamingo, where there are full facilities including visitor centre with museum, boating marina and campground. Flamingos are very seldom seen there now, but I saw plenty of brown pelicans and “laughing” seagulls, which are there all the year round. The area was beautifully laid out with lawns palms and gardens. |
- | __Famous | + | **Famous |
The return-journey out of the Park that afternoon was uneventful, except for another very heavy deluge and thunderstorm, | The return-journey out of the Park that afternoon was uneventful, except for another very heavy deluge and thunderstorm, | ||
- | The first big island is Key Largo, where I paid a brief visit (as it: was getting late in the day) to the John Pannekamp | + | The first big island is Key Largo, where I paid a brief visit (as it was getting late in the day) to the John Pennekamp |
- | Next morning I left the motel in the dark at 5.30 am to arrive at. Key West by 8 am. This is a quaint town with old timber buildings and narrow streets, once a naval depot, now a tourist mecca. The southernmost tip Of the United States, it was once called The Conch (pronounced kongk) Republic, so if you lived here you were a conch. It is only 2.4 km x 7.2 km, with a harbour full of expensive pleasure boats, as well as the fishing fleet. I made a 2-hour tour on the Conch Train to see all the sights, and went on the glass-bottomed boat to see the marine life. Its lifeline is a 60 cm waterpipe coming 200 km from Florida City on the mainland. | + | Next morning I left the motel in the dark at 5.30 am to arrive at Key West by 8 am. This is a quaint town with old timber buildings and narrow streets, once a naval depot, now a tourist mecca. The southernmost tip of the United States, it was once called The Conch (pronounced kongk) Republic, so if you lived here you were a conch. It is only 2.4 km x 7.2 km, with a harbour full of expensive pleasure boats, as well as the fishing fleet. I made a 2-hour tour on the Conch Train to see all the sights, and went on the glass-bottomed boat to see the marine life. Its lifeline is a 60 cm waterpipe coming 200 km from Florida City on the mainland. |
- | The journey back along the Keys in the afternoon was made with brilliant sunshine.and shimmering blue water, the highlight being the Seven Mile Bridge with a high arch in the middle. | + | The journey back along the Keys in the afternoon was made with brilliant sunshine and shimmering blue water, the highlight being the Seven Mile Bridge with a high arch in the middle. |
So back to Miami by 6 pm and Washington D.C. by 10 pm, well satisfied with the trip. | So back to Miami by 6 pm and Washington D.C. by 10 pm, well satisfied with the trip. | ||
- | ===== YALWAL. ===== | + | ===== YALWAL ===== |
- | __Report | + | |
- | + | **Report | |
- | by Bill Capon. | + | |
- | + | by Bill Capon | |
- | Leader: | + | |
+ | **Leader**: Bill Capon. | ||
- | Route; Yalwal - Clarke Saddle - Bundundah Creek - Colley* Plateau - Ettrema Plateau - Leyden Creek - Colley Plateau - Corroboree Spur - Corroboree. Flat - Yalwal. | + | **Route**: Yalwal - Clarke Saddle - Bundundah Creek - Colley* Plateau - Ettrema Plateau - Leyden Creek - Colley Plateau - Corroboree Spur - Corroboree. Flat - Yalwal. |
- | Twenty people set out at 8.20 am across the Danjera Dam and up past the "orchid rock" | + | Twenty people set out at 8.20 am across the Danjera Dam and up past the “orchid rock” among the burrawang palms that grow here in profusion. Clarke Saddle provides easy access south on to the un-named plateau which leads south-west to our drop off point at about 346876. |
- | leads south-west to our drop off point at about 346876. | + | |
- | The group scattered to zig zag down a clear steep slope to the bend on Bundundah Creek at 331873, where most enjoyed a cooling dip on this warm muggy March day. After lunch we headed slightly north of west up a ridge | + | The group scattered to zig zag down a clear steep slope to the bend on Bundundah Creek at 331873, where most enjoyed a cooling dip on this warm muggy March day. After lunch we headed slightly north of west up a ridge which was very thick in places with native tobacco, full and green after the summer rain. This ridge leads to spot height 1430, but a bit of searching found breaks in the cliff line and a warm (even sweaty!) party assembled at 314880. Here we had a good view to the east. |
- | which was yery thick in places with native tobacco, full and green after the summer rain. This ridge leads to spot height 1430, but a bit of searching found breaks in the cliff line and a warm (even sweaty!) party assembled at 314880. Here we had a good view to the east. | + | |
- | We then walked gingerly along the faint dotted line, to the break in the low cliff line of upper Leyden Creek, here easily crossed to lead us on to Ettrema Plateau. We wound round two tributaries of Leyden Creek on generally sodden rock, moss and thin soil, looking for a dry place to camp. At 297896 we camped where there was plenty of flat ground and a creek a couple of hundred metres away, with Ettrema Hill looming above us. This spot could be very exposed in wind or storm, at least until the burnt-out scrub grows thickly again - and then it could be much harder to walk along the plateau. | + | We then walked gingerly along the faint dotted line, to the break in the low cliff line of upper Leyden Creek, here easily crossed to lead us on to Ettrema Plateau. We wound round two tributaries of Leyden Creek on generally sodden rock, moss and thin soil, looking for a dry place to camp. At 297896 we camped where there was plenty of flat ground and a creek a couple of hundred metres away, with Ettrema Hill looming above us. This spot could be very exposed in wind or storm, at least until the burnt-out scrub grows thickly again - and then it could be much harder to walk along the plateau. |
- | Tom Wenman got the fire going again at 6 am (who was the April fool?) and we set off at 7.30 am. I left my knife behind as I intend to return next year, headed north-east for 20 minutes and dropped into a side creek. It was a bit slow and took another half hour to hit Leyden Creek at 307907. We made unexpectedly quick progress boulder | + | Tom Wenman got the fire going again at 6 am (who was the April fool?) and we set off at 7.30 am. I left my knife behind as I intend to return next year, headed north-east for 20 minutes and dropped into a side creek. It was a bit slow and took another half hour to hit Leyden Creek at 307907. We made unexpectedly quick progress boulder |
- | We got round to the right of the waterfall at the first cliff line with the aid of a short length of rope, and after a short rest on smooth pink rocks at the top, set out north along Colley Plateau. Half an hour of looking and checking was required to give us the start of the long Corroboree Spur. A little too far to the right brought us out on a fine rocky lookout with a view back up Bundundah Creek to where we had crossed | + | We got round to the right of the waterfall at the first cliff line with the aid of a short length of rope, and after a short rest on smooth pink rocks at the top, set out north along Colley Plateau. Half an hour of looking and checking was required to give us the start of the long Corroboree Spur. A little too far to the right brought us out on a fine rocky lookout with a view back up Bundundah Creek to where we had crossed it the day before. Back a little, and an easy descent through the cliff line and so on down to Corroboree Flat for lunch. |
- | it the day before. Back a little, and an easy descent through the cliff line and so on down to Corroboree Flat for lunch. | + | |
A ridge opposite leads up to the plateau at 367905 which is a great spot from which to look over Eureka Creek towards the long very flat Colley Plateau, and behind it on the horizon Ettrema Plateau with the rounded hump of Ettrema Hill. | A ridge opposite leads up to the plateau at 367905 which is a great spot from which to look over Eureka Creek towards the long very flat Colley Plateau, and behind it on the horizon Ettrema Plateau with the rounded hump of Ettrema Hill. | ||
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* Colley Plateau - named after the Club's Hon. Conservation Secretary Alex Colley, 0.A.M. | * Colley Plateau - named after the Club's Hon. Conservation Secretary Alex Colley, 0.A.M. | ||
- | ===== "SALT OF THE EARTH". ===== | + | =====" |
- | + | ||
- | by Peter Christian. | + | by Peter Christian |
So few take heed of nature' | So few take heed of nature' | ||
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The few drink keenly of her wisdom, with answers to questions not found elsewhere.\\ | The few drink keenly of her wisdom, with answers to questions not found elsewhere.\\ | ||
- | Their innocence and simplicity mistaken as "lightness of head" | + | Their innocence and simplicity mistaken as “lightness of head” or endless whining, |
Grandiose ideals to preserve her are scorned by those who cannot feel past pocket lining. | Grandiose ideals to preserve her are scorned by those who cannot feel past pocket lining. | ||
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Are lost now and for following generations - anything else is an exercise in futility. | Are lost now and for following generations - anything else is an exercise in futility. | ||
- | * Miles Dunphy, S.B.W. Hon.Member, early conservationist, | + | * Miles Dunphy, S.B.W. Hon.Member, early conservationist, |
+ | * Bob Brown, Tasmanian Wilderness Society. | ||
- | ===== OBITUARY - ANICE DUNCAN. ===== | + | =====OBITUARY - ANICE DUNCAN===== |
- | | + | **Honorary |
- | __Born | + | Born 1899 - Died on 30th April, aged 84** |
- | by Dot Butler. | + | by Dot Butler |
Anice and her husband Frank came to Australia from the North of England where they both belonged to walking clubs. Their first contact with bushwalking was an article in the Sydney Mail, run by Fairfax & Sons, describing a walk done by three girls in the Hawkesbury area. The girls were Marie Byles and two friends, Nell Cusac and Ernestine Anderson. They made contact, and that's how Frank and Anice got to know Marie. About the same time a letter appeared in the S. M. Herald by Jack Debert, trying to collect together people interested in a walking club for men and women. Marie arranged a combined walk, and Frank and Anice considered that was the beginning of the S.B.W. The year was 1927. | Anice and her husband Frank came to Australia from the North of England where they both belonged to walking clubs. Their first contact with bushwalking was an article in the Sydney Mail, run by Fairfax & Sons, describing a walk done by three girls in the Hawkesbury area. The girls were Marie Byles and two friends, Nell Cusac and Ernestine Anderson. They made contact, and that's how Frank and Anice got to know Marie. About the same time a letter appeared in the S. M. Herald by Jack Debert, trying to collect together people interested in a walking club for men and women. Marie arranged a combined walk, and Frank and Anice considered that was the beginning of the S.B.W. The year was 1927. | ||
- | Anice was a very active walker in the early days of the Club. She had a very lively intelligence - "She was a devil for debating" | + | Anice was a very active walker in the early days of the Club. She had a very lively intelligence - “She was a devil for debating” - and many verbal contests took place in their holiday cabin at Jamberoo. |
- | Anice and Frank had two sons, one of whom died as a little boy. Money donated by Club members for his hospital treatment, but unused, became the "Era Fund" | + | Anice and Frank had two sons, one of whom died as a little boy. Money donated by Club members for his hospital treatment, but unused, became the “Era Fund” which was used as the nucleus for the purchase of Coolana, as reported earlier in the Bushwalker Magazine. |
Anice always considered that the S.B.W. had been an important part of her life. She is survived by husband Frank, and son Barry. | Anice always considered that the S.B.W. had been an important part of her life. She is survived by husband Frank, and son Barry. | ||
- | ===== MOON MADNESS. ===== | + | =====MOON MADNESS===== |
- | __or S.& R.NIGHT SHIFT.__ | + | |
- | by Gordon Lee. | + | or **S.& R. NIGHT SHIFT** |
- | | |There was movement up on Flagstaff | + | by Gordon Lee |
- | | |For notice had been posted | + | |
- | | |That the night search practice, S.& R., was underway. | + | There was movement up on Flagstaff |
- | | |And some tried and tested walkers | + | For notice had been posted |
- | | |From suburbs near and far | | | + | That the night search practice, S.& R., was underway.\\ |
- | | |Had met upon the hill at end of day; | | | + | And some tried and tested walkers\\ |
- | | |For walkers like hard walking, specially at night, | + | From suburbs near and far \\ |
- | | |In interesting country: Bell and Wollangambe | + | Had met upon the hill at end of day; \\ |
- | | |Be sure you get your navigation right. | + | For walkers like hard walking, specially at night, |
+ | In interesting country: Bell and Wollangambe | ||
+ | Be sure you get your navigation right. | ||
There we all were as darkness descended and the moon ascended waiting to be allotted our Courses, all eager? to be on our way. A motley crew - there was one, a damsel, not even slightly undersized, who hailed from up the Novocastrian side (more apologies B!) all gathered for the fray. | There we all were as darkness descended and the moon ascended waiting to be allotted our Courses, all eager? to be on our way. A motley crew - there was one, a damsel, not even slightly undersized, who hailed from up the Novocastrian side (more apologies B!) all gathered for the fray. | ||
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I teamed with a keen and extremely capable lad, Doug Wheen, who I must admit, by the merest stroke of luck, happened to have a first rate knowledge of the area where we were to do battle. From there on we would be known by our Code Name, Party 7. | I teamed with a keen and extremely capable lad, Doug Wheen, who I must admit, by the merest stroke of luck, happened to have a first rate knowledge of the area where we were to do battle. From there on we would be known by our Code Name, Party 7. | ||
- | "Anyone for the Diehards' | + | “Anyone for the Diehards' |
- | The first bit was easy. After being dropped at a hairpin bend on the Mt Wilson Road at 8 pm, we took off on what turned,out to be a track down to Du Faur's Creek. And there it was, our first "blinker". Let me | + | The first bit was easy. After being dropped at a hairpin bend on the Mt Wilson Road at 8 pm, we took off on what turned out to be a track down to Du Faur's Creek. And there it was, our first “blinker”. Let me explain. At strategic points on our selected routes there were located small blinking lights, something like checkpoints in orienteering. On getting to one of these each party had to radio base giving the coordinates. |
- | explain. At strategic points on our selected routes there were located small blinking lights, something like checkpoints in orienteering. On getting to one of these each party had to radio base giving | + | |
Here Doug's knowledge came in handy in knowing how to negotiate the creek crossing. This was to be the first of many hand over hand rope descents and ascents we were going to make that night. | Here Doug's knowledge came in handy in knowing how to negotiate the creek crossing. This was to be the first of many hand over hand rope descents and ascents we were going to make that night. | ||
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Having got down we had to get up. We picked our way through a small blockup. It looked a sheer impossibility to get directly up the other side. Doug knew it could be done. A leg up to a narrow ledge, a sidle, a convenient sapling and we were up and on our way. Remember all this was done by moonlight and torchlight. | Having got down we had to get up. We picked our way through a small blockup. It looked a sheer impossibility to get directly up the other side. Doug knew it could be done. A leg up to a narrow ledge, a sidle, a convenient sapling and we were up and on our way. Remember all this was done by moonlight and torchlight. | ||
- | Then a tricky little bit of navigation and we were coming up on a spot height. Again Doug's intuition proved to be correct. | + | Then a tricky little bit of navigation and we were coming up on a spot height. Again Doug's intuition proved to be correct. |
- | We radioed base. As it happened, that was the last contact for some time. Time also for a break. Nothing like a glass of wine, some chocolate and jelly babies to revive the troops. Time to take stock. Doubts as to position caused trouble because our course changed direction from this point. We chose to turn from the light and kept strict line by "leading through". We worked our way through minor cliff lines till -\\ | + | We radioed base. As it happened, that was the last contact for some time. Time also for a break. Nothing like a glass of wine, some chocolate and jelly babies to revive the troops. Time to take stock. Doubts as to position caused trouble because our course changed direction from this point. We chose to turn from the light and kept strict line by “leading through”. We worked our way through minor cliff lines till - “How in the hell are we supposed to get down there?” A drop in front of us. Bell. Blackness and the sound of falls to the right and to the left a sheer cliff line. The drop directly in front of us was broken by a ledge about 25' (7.5 m) below. With us we had one sling and brakebar and 60' of Bluewater. On closer examination of the face we decided that we could climb back without rope. So down to the ledge. |
- | "How in the hell are we supposed to get down there?" | + | |
- | Just as we were searching out the possibilities, | + | Just as we were searching out the possibilities, |
- | alongside the cliff was a very helpful tree. Only by getting into the upper branches could we get low enough to get our rope to reach bottom. First time I've ever abseiled from the branches of a tree - at eleven | + | |
- | o' | + | |
- | It's one thing to get down and in, another to get up and out. We didn't bother to look downstream having seen (not quite the right word) the blackness from above and heard the noise of falling water. So upstream | + | It's one thing to get down and in, another to get up and out. We didn't bother to look downstream having seen (not quite the right word) the blackness from above and heard the noise of falling water. So upstream it was, examining every option. Under or up and over huge blocks. Rockhopping by torchlight - not exactly a quiet Saturday night' |
- | it was, examining every option. Under or up and over huge blocks. Rockhopping by torchlight - not exactly a quiet Saturday night' | + | |
One likely re-entry was searched at length. Two waterfalls up, no go. Then the dreaded - a pool. At one o' | One likely re-entry was searched at length. Two waterfalls up, no go. Then the dreaded - a pool. At one o' | ||
- | Just the other side a dry sandy bend with an overhang. There, a pair of sylphs flitting about in the diffused moonglow, gathering wood for a warming and cocking fire, would have delighted the most purist nudist. | + | Just the other side a dry sandy bend with an overhang. There, a pair of sylphs flitting about in the diffused moonglow, gathering wood for a warming and cocking fire, would have delighted the most purist nudist. |
Then dress for dinner - prawns, dry toast (my marg. was still in the frig at home and Doug's in the car) and tea. We thought it an hour well spent. | Then dress for dinner - prawns, dry toast (my marg. was still in the frig at home and Doug's in the car) and tea. We thought it an hour well spent. | ||
- | Away again. With some relief the walls appeared to be lowering. A possible | + | Away again. With some relief the walls appeared to be lowering. A possible exit? The balloon burst. The damn thing closed up tight and you guessed! - another pool. A deep one, but there were underwater ledges both sides. Up to the armpits but toes still making contact. Out and there it was! A creek entrance, but with one of those nasty smooth 8' corners. |
- | Standing on an 18" | + | Standing on an 18” (500 mm) ledge as dawn was breaking, shivering, bracing a pair of sandshoed feet while staring up at a bare white bum, certainly could not be compared to the ethereal experience of gazing in awe at the Taj Mahal by moonlight. But it was a “goer”, which Doug determined while I struggled into a dry singlet and shirt. |
There in the piccaninny daylight, in the comfort once again of dry clothes, we were certain we were out. Four hours in that blasted canyon. Space of course has not permitted me to recount the number Of times we boosted up a problem climb necessitating the unpacking of the rope for pack hauling and assistance, All of this added up to the hours mentioned. | There in the piccaninny daylight, in the comfort once again of dry clothes, we were certain we were out. Four hours in that blasted canyon. Space of course has not permitted me to recount the number Of times we boosted up a problem climb necessitating the unpacking of the rope for pack hauling and assistance, All of this added up to the hours mentioned. | ||
- | On the plateau top we radioed in and were requested to make base by "the most expeditious (direct) route". "Over and out". No way!! After all we'd been through, the Diehard Marathoners would complete the course! Unfortunately the satisfaction of gathering the blinkers would be denied us for another party was picking these up on their way back. This information was gleaned by eavesdropping. | + | On the plateau top we radioed in and were requested to make base by “the most expeditious (direct) route”. “Over and out”. No way!! After all we'd been through, the Diehard Marathoners would complete the course! Unfortunately the satisfaction of gathering the blinkers would be denied us for another party was picking these up on their way back. This information was gleaned by eavesdropping. |
Maps out. Beaut! We were right on course. And so the rest is history. Into and up the ' | Maps out. Beaut! We were right on course. And so the rest is history. Into and up the ' | ||
- | All of this demonstrates that our S.&.R. unit. has the personnel, expertise, physical capability and determination to enable us to move at night in very difficult country. | + | All of this demonstrates that our S. & R. unit has the personnel, expertise, physical capability and determination to enable us to move at night in very difficult country. |
This could mean our earlier contact with a distressed person or party, giving greater opportunity for lifesaving. | This could mean our earlier contact with a distressed person or party, giving greater opportunity for lifesaving. | ||
- | Perhaps a more extreme test, that of moving on a "dark" | + | Perhaps a more extreme test, that of moving on a “dark” night, could be tried at some future date?? |
- | ===== EDITOR' | + | =====EDITOR' |
- | What is the origin of the word " | + | What is the origin of the word “billy”? |
Choose from: | Choose from: | ||
- | 1. Scottish dialect | + | 1. Scottish dialect |
- | 2. French | + | 2. French |
- | 3. A man's name.\\ | + | 3. A man's name\\ |
- | 4. " | + | 4. “billa”, the aboriginal word for water or river. |
- | __ANSWER__\\ | + | **Answer** |
- | All are possible derivatives, | + | |
+ | All are possible derivatives, | ||
(The Australian Encyclopedia, | (The Australian Encyclopedia, | ||
- | ===== THE DON FINCH MOVEABLE RE-UNION, 1984. ===== | + | =====THE DON FINCH MOVEABLE RE-UNION, 1984===== |
- | by Dot Butler. | + | |
+ | by Dot Butler | ||
- | (In the Church Calendar, Easter is a Moveable Feast. On Don's Easter trip there were 40 walkers, including presidents | + | (In the Church Calendar, Easter is a Moveable Feast. On Don's Easter trip there were 40 walkers, including presidents past and present, so it could be called a Moveable Re-union.) |
- | __7.70 Thursday night.__\\ | + | **7.70 Thursday night**\\ |
- | As I dashed out the door to Geoff Wagg's car through a heavy downpour the radio announcer was intoning | + | As I dashed out the door to Geoff Wagg's car through a heavy downpour the radio announcer was intoning |
- | __Friday.__ | + | **Friday**\\ |
- | Morning revealed a grey drizzling overcast, but at least it was not raining as we drove along the road to the Gundillion cemetery where all cars were to assemble. All present and counted, and the convey of cars moved off | + | Morning revealed a grey drizzling overcast, but at least it was not raining as we drove along the road to the Gundillion cemetery where all cars were to assemble. All present and counted, and the convey of cars moved off towards the Shoalhaven. Spirits were somewhat low when Don reported the river uncrossable, |
- | towards the Shoalhaven. Spirits were somewhat low when Don reported the river uncrossable, | + | |
- | __Saturday, morning.__\\ | + | **Saturday, morning**\\ |
- | Don's measuring stick in the river showed the water was down enough for us to attempt the crossing. Linked together in groups we waded to the other side. Meanwhile the drivers had taken their cars three km down the road to Emu Flat for our return on Monday. They soon rejoined the party and we set out on our 13 km walk. For 5 km we followed a fire trail, then a climb of 260 metres through bush to the top of the ridge. At the highest point, Turks Head; we collected around our navigator, Phil Butt. Everything was shut in by trees. Assorted moans "Where' | + | Don's measuring stick in the river showed the water was down enough for us to attempt the crossing. Linked together in groups we waded to the other side. Meanwhile the drivers had taken their cars three km down the road to Emu Flat for our return on Monday. They soon rejoined the party and we set out on our 13 km walk. For 5 km we followed a fire trail, then a climb of 260 metres through bush to the top of the ridge. At the highest point, Turks Head; we collected around our navigator, Phil Butt. Everything was shut in by trees. Assorted moans “Where' |
To the accompaniment of muted hisses and boos Barry Murdoch produced | To the accompaniment of muted hisses and boos Barry Murdoch produced | ||
- | At least six campfire' | + | At least six campfires |
A big log fire brought everyone together. The songbirds were in good voice - Barbara Bruce, the Duncans, Geoff Wagg, Morag. Ryder, and a new find, Mike Reynolds. When they all got steamed up the singing was really | A big log fire brought everyone together. The songbirds were in good voice - Barbara Bruce, the Duncans, Geoff Wagg, Morag. Ryder, and a new find, Mike Reynolds. When they all got steamed up the singing was really | ||
- | super. "MOVING OFF AT 7.30!" shouted the leader as we sought our tents. | + | super. "**Moving off at 7.30!**" shouted the leader as we sought our tents. |
- | __Sunday.__\\ | + | **Sunday**\\ |
- | Daybreak. A wan sun gleamed through the mists. "MOVING OFF IN HALF AN HOUR!" - "MOVING OFF IN TEN MINUTES!" - "MOVING OFF!!!" and on the first pip of 7.30 Don and Phil and their campfire followers shouldered packs and sped away, causing the laggards to choke over the last spoonful of breakfast they crammed parkas and lunch into packs. To-day' | + | Daybreak. A wan sun gleamed through the mists. |
After lunch this had to be crossed. Phil went across to demonstrate that it was only thigh deep, but for the smaller femmes it was up to our waists, so it was a case of off with the pants, "There should be a song | After lunch this had to be crossed. Phil went across to demonstrate that it was only thigh deep, but for the smaller femmes it was up to our waists, so it was a case of off with the pants, "There should be a song | ||
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| | knees (for the tall ones).| | | | | knees (for the tall ones).| | | ||
- | The Deua makes several great loops and considerable time would be saved by cutting across them. "FOUR MORE CROSSINGS!" yelled our leader. They got deeper each one All safely crossed... Did I say all? Well - | + | The Deua makes several great loops and considerable time would be saved by cutting across them. "**Four more crossings!**" yelled our leader. They got deeper each one. All safely crossed.... Did I say all? Well - |
| |The Deua was a raging flood, but daunted we were not. | | | |The Deua was a raging flood, but daunted we were not. | | ||
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Another good sing-song that night. | Another good sing-song that night. | ||
- | __Monday.__\\ | + | **Monday**\\ |
An 8 o' | An 8 o' | ||
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Then the wagon arrived. Wendy was carefully placed inside with Joan Cooper to comfort her, and so back to Emu Flat. Here the patient was transferred to Spiro' | Then the wagon arrived. Wendy was carefully placed inside with Joan Cooper to comfort her, and so back to Emu Flat. Here the patient was transferred to Spiro' | ||
- | The whole trip was a great experience in comradeship and co-operation. The problem of accounting for 40 was lessened by making each car-driver responsible for his passengers, and only counting the drivers. | + | The whole trip was a great experience in comradeship and co-operation. The problem of accounting for 40 was lessened by making each car driver responsible for his passengers, and only counting the drivers. |
down the line like a young and eager pup in charge of a travelling flock. It was pretty to watch. This note of confidence was ably expressed by our Poet Laureate: | down the line like a young and eager pup in charge of a travelling flock. It was pretty to watch. This note of confidence was ably expressed by our Poet Laureate: | ||
| |When Donnie Finch is leading we have no need to fear, | | | |When Donnie Finch is leading we have no need to fear, | | ||
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| |He took six out on his last walk and we haven' | | |He took six out on his last walk and we haven' | ||
- | Having been on most of the Finch Easter trips I have come to expect faultless leadership, and this one was no exception... ..lots of laughter, beautiful scenery, lovely people. and (after day. 1) fine weather with blue skies and clean invigorating air. Need one ask why Bushwalkers bushwalk? | + | Having been on most of the Finch Easter trips I have come to expect faultless leadership, and this one was no exception... lots of laughter, beautiful scenery, lovely people. and (after day 1) fine weather with blue skies and clean invigorating air. Need one ask why Bushwalkers bushwalk? |
- | ===== TRACK NOTES EASTER TRIP 1984. ===== | + | ===== TRACK NOTES EASTER TRIP 1984 ===== |
- | by Don Finch. | + | by Don Finch |
- | (Brief description of route taken. Distances and grid references are all metric: heights as shown on face of maps: Reference maps KAIN, KRAWAREE | + | (Brief description of route taken. Distances and grid references are all metric: heights as shown on face of maps: Reference maps Kain, Krawaree |
- | __Friday, April 20.__\\ | + | **Friday, April 20**\\ |
- | Meeting place Gundillion Cemetery, ref KAIN 385432. Drove to old house marked " | + | Meeting place Gundillion Cemetery, ref Kain 385432. Drove to old house marked " |
- | __Saturday, April 21.__\\ | + | **Saturday, April 21**\\ |
- | Crossed ford at KRAWAREE | + | Crossed ford at Krawaree |
- | __Sunday, April 22.__\\ | + | **Sunday, April 22**\\ |
- | Along ridge bearing magnetic south to KRAWAREE | + | Along ridge bearing magnetic south to Krawaree |
- | __Monday, April 23.__\\ | + | **Monday, April 23**\\ |
- | From camp site over to Moodong | + | From camp site over to Moodong Creek at Krawaree |
- | ===== SOCIAL NOTES FOR JULY. ===== | + | ===== SOCIAL NOTES FOR JULY ===== |
- | by Roger Browne, | + | by Roger Browne |
- | |July 4 |Committee Meeting. | | + | |July 4 |Committee Meeting |
|July 11 |Slides by Anton Gillezeau from his five month trip through | |July 11 |Slides by Anton Gillezeau from his five month trip through | ||
|July 18 |A Singalong night. Learn some new songs, have a good time, and collect a free copy of a booklet of bushwalking songs to take with you on future walks. | |July 18 |A Singalong night. Learn some new songs, have a good time, and collect a free copy of a booklet of bushwalking songs to take with you on future walks. | ||
- | | |DINNER | + | | |**Dinner** |
- | | |Late arrivals ask for the " | + | | |Late arrivals ask for the " |
- | |July 25 |Arts and Crafts night. | + | |July 25 |Arts and Crafts night. |
===== 5TH AUSTRALIAN ROGAINING CHAMPIONSHIPS - AUGUST 11/12 1984. ===== | ===== 5TH AUSTRALIAN ROGAINING CHAMPIONSHIPS - AUGUST 11/12 1984. ===== | ||
- | STARTS: 1.00 pm. WHERE: Southern Tablelands of N.S.W. - about 2-3 hours drive.\\ | + | **Starts**: 1.00 pm. **Where**: Southern Tablelands of N.S.W. - about 2-3 hours drive.\\ |
- | TEAMS: 2,3 or 4 people. | + | **Teams**: 2,3 or 4 people. |
- | THE AREA is 30% grazing land, 70% open forest. Topography is moderately complex, but relief is typically 100 metres.\\ | + | **The area** |
- | FEES.: $12 per entrant (includes map and food for weekend)\\ | + | **Fees**: $12 per entrant (includes map and food for weekend)\\ |
- | ENTRY FORMS: Apply to Joan Cooper in the Clubroom, or ROGAINING, 5 Ellen Street, Randwick 2031. | + | **Entry Forms**: Apply to Joan Cooper in the Clubroom, or **Rogaining**, 5 Ellen Street, Randwick 2031. |
===== ADVERTISEMENT. ===== | ===== ADVERTISEMENT. ===== | ||
- | __SHARE HOUSE__ | + | **Share House** |
Lady wanted to share a house in beautiful Birchgrove overlooking the Oval. Must be a non-smoker. Rent $50 per week.\\ | Lady wanted to share a house in beautiful Birchgrove overlooking the Oval. Must be a non-smoker. Rent $50 per week.\\ | ||
- | Phone PETER MILLER | + | Phone **Peter Miller** |
- | __PART-TIME WORK WANTED__.\\ | + | **Part-Time Work Wanted**\\ |
I am looking for part-time work as a handyman. Locks fitted, painting inside and outside (max. height 4 metres), paper hanging, carpentry, general house maintenance etc. Week-end work preferred.\\ | I am looking for part-time work as a handyman. Locks fitted, painting inside and outside (max. height 4 metres), paper hanging, carpentry, general house maintenance etc. Week-end work preferred.\\ | ||
- | Phone PETER MILLER | + | Phone **Peter Miller** |
- | ===== GETTING OVER. ===== | + | ===== GETTING OVER ===== |
- | by Jim Brown. | + | by Jim Brown |
One of the trips programmed for the King-sized Easter/ | One of the trips programmed for the King-sized Easter/ | ||
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So I'm not entirely surprised that the Easter 1984 contingent, without a detailed map of the locality, were not quite sure if they'd found Beloon Pass, a.k.a. Travis' | So I'm not entirely surprised that the Easter 1984 contingent, without a detailed map of the locality, were not quite sure if they'd found Beloon Pass, a.k.a. Travis' | ||
- | ===== NEWS OF NEIL SCHAFER. ===== | + | ===== NEWS OF NEIL SCHAFER ===== |
A recent issue of a C.S.I.R.O. "Home Journal" | A recent issue of a C.S.I.R.O. "Home Journal" | ||
- | "MR. NEIL SCHAFER | + | "**Mr Neil Schafer** |
Neil Schafer joined S.B.W. in 1951, and was very active over the ensuing 8 to 10 years. He is now a non-active member of the club. | Neil Schafer joined S.B.W. in 1951, and was very active over the ensuing 8 to 10 years. He is now a non-active member of the club. | ||
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In an exclusive interview with our reporter he told us the New Zealand competition was held at a place called Naseby, near Dunedin. Neil said part of the course was over ground which had been mined-in past, years and was now covered with a heavy secondary pine forest. He had been delayed in negotiating this area and had believed he had lost all chance of completing the course in fast time, but apparently the other competitors had similar difficulties. Neil will leave Australia shortly to take part in orienteering contests in Europe, culminating in Sweden, the home of orienteering, | In an exclusive interview with our reporter he told us the New Zealand competition was held at a place called Naseby, near Dunedin. Neil said part of the course was over ground which had been mined-in past, years and was now covered with a heavy secondary pine forest. He had been delayed in negotiating this area and had believed he had lost all chance of completing the course in fast time, but apparently the other competitors had similar difficulties. Neil will leave Australia shortly to take part in orienteering contests in Europe, culminating in Sweden, the home of orienteering, | ||
- | ===== CONGRATULATIONS. ===== | + | ===== CONGRATULATIONS ===== |
Tony Marshall and Marsha Durham have announced their engagement and will be getting married in September. Congratulations! | Tony Marshall and Marsha Durham have announced their engagement and will be getting married in September. Congratulations! | ||
===== "FOR SERVICES TO CONSERVATION" | ===== "FOR SERVICES TO CONSERVATION" | ||
- | In this year's Queen' | + | In this year's Queen' |
Of course, those who know Alex will be well aware that for more than 40 years he has given much time and effort to the cause of conservation, | Of course, those who know Alex will be well aware that for more than 40 years he has given much time and effort to the cause of conservation, | ||
- | ===== NOTES ON COMMITTEE MEETING 6.6.84. ===== | + | ===== NOTES ON COMMITTEE MEETING 6.6.84 ===== |
Two motions were passed by the meeting: \\ | Two motions were passed by the meeting: \\ | ||
"That this Committee recommend to the General Meeting that this Club purchase a second-hand offset printer, platemaker and fuser." | "That this Committee recommend to the General Meeting that this Club purchase a second-hand offset printer, platemaker and fuser." | ||
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The following new members were welcomed - please add to your List of Members: | The following new members were welcomed - please add to your List of Members: | ||
- | |RANNARD, Ian, 56 Eastern Valley Way, Northbridge, | + | |Rannard, Ian, 56 Eastern Valley Way, Northbridge, |
- | |RANNARD, Timothy, 56 Eastern Valley Way, Northbridge, | + | |Rannard, Timothy, 56 Eastern Valley Way, Northbridge, |
- | |REYNOLDS, Michael, 27/90 Cambridge Street, Stanmore, 2048 | | + | |Reynolds, Michael, 27/90 Cambridge Street, Stanmore, 2048 | |
- | |BORE, Laurie, 6 James Street, Ingleburn, 2565 | | + | |Bore, Laurie, 6 James Street, Ingleburn, 2565 | |
- | ===== AT THE GENERAL MEETING, 13.6.84. ===== | + | ===== AT THE GENERAL MEETING, 13.6.84 ===== |
- | At the General Meeting it was resolved to purchase a reconditioned offset printer, plus platemaking equipment (copier and fuser) as offered by Redson Supplies at $2,80D. | + | At the General Meeting it was resolved to purchase a reconditioned offset printer, plus platemaking equipment (copier and fuser) as offered by Redson Supplies at $2,800. |
===== ADVANTAGES OF OFFSET PRINTER ===== | ===== ADVANTAGES OF OFFSET PRINTER ===== | ||
- | |1. |Replaces a worn out duplicator which uses an out-of-date printing process. | + | |1. |
- | |2. |Our paper needs to be re-ordered shortly and standard sizes will be available to us at cheaper rates. | + | |2. |
- | |3. |Photos, line drawings, maps etc. are possible. | + | |3. |
- | |4. |Using these photos etc a better magazine presentation is possible. | + | |4. |
- | |5. |The proposed package gives a chance to make corrections and effect layout changes at plate making. | + | |5. |
- | |6. |Improved paper quality is possible. | + | |6. |
- | |7. |Repeated runs can be held on metal plates. | + | |7. |
- | |8. |One time runs are to be done on paper "throw away" plates at about 35c each. | | + | |8. |
- | |9. |Printing our own covers is possible. | + | |9. |
- | |10. | Standardisation of covers and content of magazine, walks programmes and other reports to post office requirements means a cheaper postage rate is possible. | + | |10. |Standardisation of covers and content of magazine, walks programmes and other reports to post office requirements means a cheaper postage rate is possible. |
198406.txt · Last modified: 2015/08/06 12:51 by sbw