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198711 [2016/09/21 15:57] tyreless198711 [2016/09/23 10:39] tyreless
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 +=====The Mountain Trails Club.=====
  
-The Sydney Bushwalkers at 60 years old is one of the oldest active bushwalking clubs in Australia. Jeff's article gives an insight into a walking club which predates our own. In this present world it may be difficult to imagine what life was like in 1914, three score and ten years ago; it is almost impossible to comprehend the reasons for or needs to have a men only walking club. 
-There has been a long association between the M.T.C. and the S.B.W. Jeff's father 
-designed the cover of our magazine; look now and you'll still find his name there. EDITOR. 
-THE MOUNTAIN TRAILS CLUB. 
 by Jeff Rigby. by Jeff Rigby.
-In the December 1986 issue of "The Sydney BUshwalker", Alex Colley reviewed Pat Thompson's excellent book "Myles Dunphy - Selected Writings". The book is certainly a timely one in that Myles kept a low profile during his long career as a conservationist and received very little recognition until he was awarded the 0.B.E. in the last years of his life. Very few + 
-outside the walking and conservation world realise this country's debt to him, and indeed to +(The Sydney Bushwalkers at 60 years old is one of the oldest active bushwalking clubs in Australia. Jeff's article gives an insight into a walking club which predates our own. In this present world it may be difficult to imagine what life was like in 1914, three score and ten years ago; it is almost impossible to comprehend the reasons for or needs to have a men only walking club. 
-many he was only known through his many maps, notably his wonderful 'Gangerang' sheet. To + 
-look at his maps is to gain quite a clear insight into the man; methodical, accurate, and highly romantic. In fact his cartographical activities set him apart from his successors to some extent, in that his maps became a powerful weapon in the cause of preservation of scenic wilderness. This was because they allowed generations of walkers to understand the country and its intrinsic value, and demonstrated to government that here was a man whose knowledge and expertise could not easily be denied. +There has been a long association between the M.T.C. and the S.B.W. Jeff's father 
-But what of the Mountain Trails Club which Myles formed in 1914 with five mates, said +designed the cover of our magazine; look now and you'll still find his name there. Editor.) 
-to be Australia's first true bushwalking club (Myles' term in those days was 'mountain trailing' or 'trailering'), under whose aegis so many conservation battles were waged in the decades that followed. Alex raised the question in his review and perhaps some explanation can be made here. What did happen to the Mountain Trails Club? + 
-My father, Alan Rigby, who designed the cover of "The Sydney Bushwalker", was a long time member of the M.T.C., from 1923 until his death in 1966. He was also a foundation member of the S.B.W. and was a member of the National Parks Association in later life. It would have +In the December 1986 issue of "The Sydney BUshwalker", Alex Colley reviewed Pat Thompson's excellent book "Myles Dunphy - Selected Writings". The book is certainly a timely one in that Myles kept a low profile during his long career as a conservationist and received very little recognition until he was awarded the O.B.E. in the last years of his life. Very few outside the walking and conservation world realise this country's debt to him, and indeed to many he was only known through his many maps, notably his wonderful 'Gangerang' sheet. To look at his maps is to gain quite a clear insight into the man; methodical, accurate, and highly romantic. In fact his cartographical activities set him apart from his successors to some extent, in that his maps became a powerful weapon in the cause of preservation of scenic wilderness. This was because they allowed generations of walkers to understand the country and its intrinsic value, and demonstrated to government that here was a man whose knowledge and expertise could not easily be denied. 
-to be said, however, that his greatest loyalty was to the Mountain TrailsClub and in particular to Myles Dunphy. This was demonstrated to me one day on Armours Range overlooking Mt. Milo when he was pointing out where he and his mates had carried Myles out of the Kowmung in 1934, some thirty years previuously, after Myles had experienced suspected heart trouble: "Yes, + 
-we loved Myles," he said, and as I looked at the terrain and imagined the party, struggling with Myles on his.stretcher in the January heat, it seemed to me that they must have! +But what of the Mountain Trails Club which Myles formed in 1914 with five mates, said to be Australia's first true bushwalking club (Myles' term in those days was 'mountain trailing' or 'trailering'), under whose aegis so many conservation battles were waged in the decades that followed. Alex raised the question in his review and perhaps some explanation can be made here. What did happen to the Mountain Trails Club? 
-My elder brothers and I grew up in the 1950's and 60's with the remaining Mountain Trailers almost as uncles, certainly some as godfathers. We attended most of the monthly meetings and twice a year we camped at IMiara' on Heathcote Creek, on a lease of some 30 acres held by the club, and now part of the National Park. We were treated to the unique spectacle of Myles arriving on Saturday morning complete with Dungal swag, and spent Saturday night under a big angophora with a roaring campfire, listening to yarns of walks, push-bike trips and canoe trips. There were the hilarious anecdotes of Albert Crandon, a locksmith by trade, and Roy Doyle's laconic delivery of tales of adventure in the bush. Above all we were + 
-hypnotised by Myle's ability as a story teller; his vivid, careful use of language, Irish sense of humour and the incisive quality of his voice, once heard never forgotten. +My father, Alan Rigby, who designed the cover of "The Sydney Bushwalker", was a long time member of the M.T.C., from 1923 until his death in 1966. He was also a foundation member of the S.B.W. and was a member of the National Parks Association in later life. It would have to be said, however, that his greatest loyalty was to the Mountain Trails Club and in particular to Myles Dunphy. This was demonstrated to me one day on Armours Range overlooking Mt. Milo when he was pointing out where he and his mates had carried Myles out of the Kowmung in 1934, some thirty years previuously, after Myles had experienced suspected heart trouble: "Yes, we loved Myles," he said, and as I looked at the terrain and imagined the party, struggling with Myles on his stretcher in the January heat, it seemed to me that they must have! 
-Theirs was the easy, certain, relationship of men who had known each other for up to 50 years - there was a wonderful snese of cameraderie with no sense of what we call 'macho' behaviour (although it is just possible that this was in deference to the presence of three small boys!). There was one aspect of the club, however, which has led to some controversy + 
-over the years, in that it was an all male outfit. It would be unacceptable now and from this +My elder brothers and I grew up in the 1950's and 60's with the remaining Mountain Trailers almost as uncles, certainly some as godfathers. We attended most of the monthly meetings and twice a year we camped at 'Miara' on Heathcote Creek, on a lease of some 30 acres held by the club, and now part of the National Park. We were treated to the unique spectacle of Myles arriving on Saturday morning complete with Dungal swag, and spent Saturday night under a big angophora with a roaring campfire, listening to yarns of walks, push-bike trips and canoe trips. There were the hilarious anecdotes of Albert Crandon, a locksmith by trade, and Roy Doyle's laconic delivery of tales of adventure in the bush. Above all we were hypnotised by Myle's ability as a story teller; his vivid, careful use of language, Irish sense of humour and the incisive quality of his voice, once heard never forgotten. 
-distance it is difficult to explain. I suppose in 1914 a girl simply could not share a tent + 
-with a man who was not her husband and was not expected to)tanything so unladylike as carry a pack and climb steep ridges. At any rate one has to remember that these were men who were of a post-Victorian era, born in the late 1890's and early 1900's, and perhaps it does not serve much of a purpose to judge them by current standards. +Theirs was the easy, certain, relationship of men who had known each other for up to 50 years - there was a wonderful sense of cameraderie with no sense of what we call 'macho' behaviour (although it is just possible that this was in deference to the presence of three small boys!). There was one aspect of the club, however, which has led to some controversy over the years, in that it was an all male outfit. It would be unacceptable now and from this distance it is difficult to explain. I suppose in 1914 a girl simply could not share a tent with a man who was not her husband and was not expected to do anything so unladylike as carry a pack and climb steep ridges. At any rate one has to remember that these were men who were of a post-Victorian era, born in the late 1890's and early 1900's, and perhaps it does not serve much of a purpose to judge them by current standards. 
-November, 1987 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER Page 11 + 
-It is a fact, however, that the men of the Mountain Trails Club held their womenfolk in very high regard. They certainly did walk with their wives and girl frinds (though perhaps +It is a fact, however, that the men of the Mountain Trails Club held their womenfolk in very high regard. They certainly did walk with their wives and girl frinds (though perhaps not in the very early days during the First World War). My parents spent their honeymoon on the Cox and the Nattai and Margaret Dunphy was a veteran of many canoe trips and walks. There was, of course, the now legendary perambulator trip which Myles and Margaret made to Kanangra with the infant Milo! The Club was quick to support the formation of the S.B.W. and some of them became foundation members and office bearers of the new club. 
-not in the very early days during the First World War). My parents spent their honeymoon on the Cox and the Nattai and Margaret Dunphy was a veteran of many canoe trips and walks. There was, of course, the now legendary perambulator trip which Myles and Margaret made to +
-Kanangra with the infant Milo! The Club was quick to support the formation of the S.B.W. and +
-some of them became foundation members and office bearers of the new club.+
 In later years there were regular picnics at Audley, Royal National Park and various functions at each others' houses where club members and families met and kept alight their long-standing relationships. To this day, if the Mountain Trails Club survives in any sense at all, it is largely through the bond between the women, now mostly widows, as much as between the remaining men, even though the formality of club status has long gone. In later years there were regular picnics at Audley, Royal National Park and various functions at each others' houses where club members and families met and kept alight their long-standing relationships. To this day, if the Mountain Trails Club survives in any sense at all, it is largely through the bond between the women, now mostly widows, as much as between the remaining men, even though the formality of club status has long gone.
-The truth is, that, in the end, the M.T.C. was not a club in the organisational sense, but a kind of brotherhood. It was extraordinarily selective in its membership, strictly by + 
-invitation only and the vote on the new member (by secret6allot) had to be unanimous. The new member was given a certificate of membership, hand lettered and decorated by Myles, each +The truth is, that, in the end, the M.T.C. was not a club in the organisational sense, but a kind of brotherhood. It was extraordinarily selective in its membership, strictly by invitation only and the vote on the new member (by secret ballot) had to be unanimous. The new member was given a certificate of membership, hand lettered and decorated by Myles, each one of them an artistic tour-de-force. There was only __ever__ 55 members from 1914 to 1970, hardly calculated to ensure the club's survival. Myles sometimes referred, in his writings, to his "bush brothers", and for their part it was unthinkable that anyone else could be the Hon. Secretary. No matter what, he was their unchallenged and much loved leader. 
-one of them an artistic tour-de-force. There was only ever 55 members from 1914 to 1970, + 
-hardly calculated to ensure the club's survival. Myles sometimes referred, in his writings, +By the early 1960s very few of the older members still walked, beyond the biannual pilgrimage to Miara. Perhaps only my father, Ray Doyle, and Richard Higgin (himself a much younger man). Even in my father's case, his walking had been in partial abeyance during the late 40s and 50s because of pressures of business, family, housebuilding etc., although he was very active later on. Of course there are six or seven of us younger members and we all walked regularly. Many of us still walk and Milo carries on his father's work in the most remarkable and implacable fashion. Perhaps careers, marriages, university, prolonged absences overseas, etc. prevented us from carrying the club on, perhaps we were too few after all. 
-to his "bush brothers", and for their part it was unthinkable that anyone else could be the + 
-Hon. Secretary. No matter what, he was their unchallenged and much loved leader. +As old age and sickness claimed the senior members, the entity of the club diminished. In the late 1950s, Bert Gallop died, followed by Harry Whitehouse, Fred Rice and later on in the 60s, Ray Doyle, my father and Harry Peatfield. About this time, as Alex Colley points out, Myles retired from professional life and was winding down his conservation activities so that the club was well and truly on the wane. Despite the addition of a couple of new members in the late 1960s, the club was officially reduced to that of a social club in 1971. 
-By the early 1960s very few of the older members still walked, beyond the biannual pilgrimage to Miara. Perhaps only my father, Ray Doyle, and Richard Higgin (himself a much younger man). Even in my father's case, his walking had been in partial abeyance during the late 40s and 50s because of pressures of business, family, housebuilding etc., although he was very active later on. Of course there are six or seven of us younger members and we all walked regularly. Many of us still walk and Milo carries on his father's work in the most remarkable and implacable fashion. Perhaps careers, marriages, university, prolonged absences +
-overseas, etc. prevented us from carrying the club on, perhaps we were too few after all. +
-As old age and sickness claimed the senior members, the entity of the club diminished. In the late 1950s, Bert Gallop died, followed by Harry Whitehouse, Fred Rice and later on in +
-the 60s, Ray Doyle, my father and Harry Peatfield. About this time, as Alex Colley points out, Myles retired from professional life and was winding down his conservation activities so that the club was well and truly on the wane. Despite the addition of a couple of new members in the late 1960s, the club was officially reduced to that of a social club in 1971.+
 It seems clear then that the club's identity was so bound up in the brotherhood of its older members that it could not survive their passing. It seems clear then that the club's identity was so bound up in the brotherhood of its older members that it could not survive their passing.
-Today at Miara, familiar trees and rocks still bask in the sun. The campsites of various + 
-Mountain Trails Club members can still be identified; that of Myles looking as if he had left +Today at Miara, familiar trees and rocks still bask in the sun. The campsites of various Mountain Trails Club members can still be identified; that of Myles looking as if he had left only the day before. The big angophora still stands, little has changed, but Myles has gone and with him the Mountain Trails Club. 
-only the day before. The big angophora still stands, little has changed,but Myles has gone + 
-and with him the Mountain Trails Club. +---- 
-T-SHIRTS T-SHIRTS T-SHIRTS T-SHIRTS+ 
 +====T-Shirts T-Shirts T-Shirts T-Shirts.==== 
 You may have noticed that the well dressed out on the Town or out on the Track now sport the S.B.W. T-shirt, a yellow creation in cotton with flannel flowers growing on the chest. You may have noticed that the well dressed out on the Town or out on the Track now sport the S.B.W. T-shirt, a yellow creation in cotton with flannel flowers growing on the chest.
-As you tramp through the bush as free as a Platycercus flaveolus (yellow rosella) you might give some thought to the people who silk-screen printed our T-shirts especially if for whatever reason you need other silk-screen printing. The Berrima Training Centre, a part + 
-of the Department of Corrective Services did our printing. They may not be able to wander +As you tramp through the bush as free as a Platycercus flaveolus (yellow rosella) you might give some thought to the people who silk-screen printed our T-shirts especially if for whatever reason you need other silk-screen printing. The Berrima Training Centre, a part of the Department of Corrective Services did our printing. They may not be able to wander around the bush as free as we do but they do a very professional job of all stages of printing. Philip Tompkins the manager of the printing shop on 048-771241 at the Berrima Training Centre will happily discuss designs, colours, quantities, prices and delivery. The service that the B.T.C. gave us was excellent. 
-around the bush as free as we do but they do a very professional job of all stages of printing. Philip Tompkins the manager of the printing shop on 048-771241 at the Berrima Training Centre will happily discuss designs, colours, quantities, prices and delivery. The service that the B.T.C. gave us was excellent. + 
-   +----  
-   , , + 
-   A HUGE +=====The October General Meeting.===== 
-  1.., +
-  ill i RANGE OF +
-  GEAR TO CATER +
-  ..., FOR EVERYONE'+
-  ' ,, 1 +
-  , +
-  : 7- - -. - . .-. ' '   i / 1 ' +
-  .... .,,  NEEDS' WHETHER +
-   , +
-   ,-,:1V, +
-  ---- ,,, IT BE FOR +
-  , +
-4,7   - ., .+
-.  ,.,,,L,, Bushwalking  Canyoning +
-:..:.,... ,  t,,,. , +
-.   ,   Caving  Skiing +
-.  , +
-...   Climbing  ,  +
-N.-.- - 1  +
--.-.... ' lii I  11\1\t +
-  .  +
-?::..   varolk 'lli +
-.   Travelli -ng ,.. .., +
-.....,,  s, +
-  v +
-  i +
--Z ,7-  :..,........... +
-  114.1 ., .. I +
-   Cycling. ,,V,,,,. ,-,, 1 ,. +
-r ...  iv-,, +
-. , 1  i ant  or Car Camping If +
-  Vil,  +
-' 41   i, M +
-T7a  i : ' +
-  4 A +
-   6 IV +
-( iii 1 1,1 +
-vc: '  414 Al +
-   . +
-  J +
-',i.    +
-.  eastwood +
-  camping +
-  3 Trelawney Street Eastwood 2122 +
-  Telephone (02) 858 3833 +
-  centre Proprietors: Jack, Nancy and David Fox +
-  Established 1970 +
-   +
-November, 1987 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER Page 13 +
-THE  OCTOBER GENERAL MEETING. by Barry Wallace.+
 The meeting began at around 2018 with the President in the chair, some 30 or so members, and what appeared to be one long stall, down the western wall. The meeting began at around 2018 with the President in the chair, some 30 or so members, and what appeared to be one long stall, down the western wall.
 +
 There were apologies from Ian Wolfe, Valerie Douglass, Fran Holland, Alex Colley, and two or three others (the meeting was moving at an almost frenzied pace at this stage, with the President, Secretary and floor, contributing apologies in random order). It seemed unlikely that Valerie Douglass would come forward to receive badge, but we checked, just in case. There were apologies from Ian Wolfe, Valerie Douglass, Fran Holland, Alex Colley, and two or three others (the meeting was moving at an almost frenzied pace at this stage, with the President, Secretary and floor, contributing apologies in random order). It seemed unlikely that Valerie Douglass would come forward to receive badge, but we checked, just in case.
 +
 The Minutes of the previous meeting were read, reviewed at some length, and received with minor corrections. The Minutes of the previous meeting were read, reviewed at some length, and received with minor corrections.
-Correspondence comprised a letter or letters to the Ella Community Centre, variously accepting a rise in our rent, applying for corporate membership of whatever organisation we are now required to join if we want to go on renting their hall, and apologising for cookie monstering the biscuits belonging to others, with an offer to pay for thebiscuits so consumed. There were other letters as well; one to L. W. Reid ordering more anniversary T-shirts, one from the N.P.W.S. confirming receipt of our letter re the damaged water tank on the Mt. Hay road and indicating that they will schedule repairs as funds permit; a letter from Alex Colley, our Conservation Secretary, to the State Premier urging that action be taken on theWilderness Act; a letter from the Total Environment Centre requesting a donation; a letter from Tim Moore, State Liberal M.L.C., enclosing an Environment Newsletter; and a letter from Hogg Robinson Nesbitt regarding our Public Liability insurance.+ 
 +Correspondence comprised a letter or letters to the Ella Community Centre, variously accepting a rise in our rent, applying for corporate membership of whatever organisation we are now required to join if we want to go on renting their hall, and apologising for cookie monstering the biscuits belonging to others, with an offer to pay for the biscuits so consumed. There were other letters as well; one to L. W. Reid ordering more anniversary T-shirts, one from the N.P.W.S. confirming receipt of our letter re the damaged water tank on the Mt. Hay road and indicating that they will schedule repairs as funds permit; a letter from Alex Colley, our Conservation Secretary, to the State Premier urging that action be taken on the Wilderness Act; a letter from the Total Environment Centre requesting a donation; a letter from Tim Moore, State Liberal M.L.C., enclosing an Environment Newsletter; and a letter from Hogg Robinson Nesbitt regarding our Public Liability insurance. 
 The meeting also received a notice of motion from the October Committee meeting to the effect that Committee were concerned that the September General Meeting had seen fit to directly contravene a Committee ruling without the courtesy of referring the matter back to the Committee for reconsideration, and suggesting that some thought be given to returning to the previous practice of operating under a series of standing orders (motions of continuing effect they used to be called B.W.) for the purpose of maintaining an orderly system of decision making and control, particularly in financial matters. The meeting also received a notice of motion from the October Committee meeting to the effect that Committee were concerned that the September General Meeting had seen fit to directly contravene a Committee ruling without the courtesy of referring the matter back to the Committee for reconsideration, and suggesting that some thought be given to returning to the previous practice of operating under a series of standing orders (motions of continuing effect they used to be called B.W.) for the purpose of maintaining an orderly system of decision making and control, particularly in financial matters.
 +
 There followed somewhat of a Q. and A. session, as people who had not been present at the September meeting attempted to establish just what had led to this situation. There were references to great emotion and turbulence, but no really rational explanation. There also seemed, to me at least, to be a general drawing back. The meeting passed a motion that the meeting take note of the Committee notice and requesting that a sub-committee be set up to review and recommend on this, and on standing orders. There followed somewhat of a Q. and A. session, as people who had not been present at the September meeting attempted to establish just what had led to this situation. There were references to great emotion and turbulence, but no really rational explanation. There also seemed, to me at least, to be a general drawing back. The meeting passed a motion that the meeting take note of the Committee notice and requesting that a sub-committee be set up to review and recommend on this, and on standing orders.
 +
 The Treasurer's Report indicated that we began the month with $8666.16, acquired $2990.13, spent $2946.95 and closed with a balance of $8709.34. We also received the 60th Anniversary sub-committee financial report and activity report. The meeting authorised disbursements to cover the cost of drinks for the invited guests at the dinner. Arising from the activity report the meeting moved that clearing bushes etc. at Coolana prior to the 60th Anniversary camp be kept to the minimum necessary. The Treasurer's Report indicated that we began the month with $8666.16, acquired $2990.13, spent $2946.95 and closed with a balance of $8709.34. We also received the 60th Anniversary sub-committee financial report and activity report. The meeting authorised disbursements to cover the cost of drinks for the invited guests at the dinner. Arising from the activity report the meeting moved that clearing bushes etc. at Coolana prior to the 60th Anniversary camp be kept to the minimum necessary.
 +
 Federation Report indicated that F.B.W. are concerned at the increasing use of National Parks by horse riding parties and the changes being made to some park areas as a result. There was also some uncertainty about the exact intention behind changes to Warragamba Dam. Copies of the new S. & R. Calender, using the normal conventions for calenders this time, will be available in the near future. Federation Report indicated that F.B.W. are concerned at the increasing use of National Parks by horse riding parties and the changes being made to some park areas as a result. There was also some uncertainty about the exact intention behind changes to Warragamba Dam. Copies of the new S. & R. Calender, using the normal conventions for calenders this time, will be available in the near future.
-In the matter of Incorporation of the Club we have now lodged ourcertificate of insurance and the recently amended constitution     don't hold your breath.+ 
 +In the matter of Incorporation of the Club we have now lodged our certificate of insurance and the recently amended constitution... don't hold your breath. 
 Then followed a Federation Ball report which consisted largely of raffle ticket numbers and prize amounts. Rather like, I imagine, a game of housie. Then followed a Federation Ball report which consisted largely of raffle ticket numbers and prize amounts. Rather like, I imagine, a game of housie.
 +
 The Walks Report began, after we had successfully fended off Alan's offer to present two months' worth to make up for the previous meeting's lack, with no report of Wayne Steele's Byangee Walls traverse over the weekend of 11,12,13 September. Ian Debert had 6 people on his Mt. Jellore trip the same weekend, and of the day walks - there was no report of Ken Gould's Brisbane Waters walk, Alan Mewett reported 15 starters and good weather and great views on his Jenolan Canyon trip. The Walks Report began, after we had successfully fended off Alan's offer to present two months' worth to make up for the previous meeting's lack, with no report of Wayne Steele's Byangee Walls traverse over the weekend of 11,12,13 September. Ian Debert had 6 people on his Mt. Jellore trip the same weekend, and of the day walks - there was no report of Ken Gould's Brisbane Waters walk, Alan Mewett reported 15 starters and good weather and great views on his Jenolan Canyon trip.
-Maurie Bloom's Neriga walk over the weekend 18,19,20 September attracted 11 people on what + 
-Page 14 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER November, 1987 +Maurie Bloom's Neriga walk over the weekend 18,19,20 September attracted 11 people on what was described as a good walk, apart from the absence of Maurie, who was sick. Carol Bruce did the honours. Tom Wenman had 4 people out on his Cloudmaker trip the same weekend. 
-was described as a good walk, apart from the absence of Maurie, who was sick. Carol Bruce did the honours. Tom Wenman had 4 people out on his Cloudmaker trip the same weekend. + 
-There was no report of Ainslie Morris' Pearl Beach day walk but Errol Sheedy had 26 people on +There was no report of Ainslie Morris' Pearl Beach day walk but Errol Sheedy had 26 people on his Waterfall to Otford walk which was described as excellent on all counts, includin wildflowers. 
-his Waterfall to Otford walk which was described as excellent on all counts, includinF + 
-wildflowers. +The following weekend 25,26,27 September saw Oliver Crawford and a party of 11 loving the exploring of the area, particularly the descent at the Yarramunmun Creek/Bungleboori Creek junction. Of Tony Marshall's Colboyd Range trip there was no report, but Barry Wallace'Bonnum Pic walk had a party of 6 enjoying the wildflowers and witnessing a curious snake dance in fine, rather warm weather. Peter Christian's day walk to West Head attracted a party of 6 for a little scrub-bashing, Paul Mawhinney had 12 on his Kangaroo Creek walk and Bill Hall led 12 people on his Wondabyne wildflower walk. Wilf Hilder's walk went - no report. 
-The following weekend 25,26,27 September saw Oliver Crawford and a party of 11 loving the exploring of the area, particularly the descent at the Yarramunmun Creek/Bungleboori Creek junction. Of Tony Marshall's Colboyd Range trip there was no report, but Barry Wallaces Bonnum Pic walk had a party of 6 enjoying the wildflowers and witnessing a curious snake dance in fine, rather warm weather. Peter Christian's day walk to West Head attracted a party of 6 for a little scrub-bashing, Paul Mawhinney had 12 on his Kangaroo Creek walk and Bill Hall led 12 people on his Wondabyne wildflower walk. Wilf Hilder's walk went - no report.+
 All of which brought us to October 2,3,4,5. Oliver Crawford had a party of 10 on his Axehead Range walk and Ian Debert gentled his party of 13 through the rigours of a base camp at Joadja. George Walton's day walk around Narrowneck went to program for the party of 9. All of which brought us to October 2,3,4,5. Oliver Crawford had a party of 10 on his Axehead Range walk and Ian Debert gentled his party of 13 through the rigours of a base camp at Joadja. George Walton's day walk around Narrowneck went to program for the party of 9.
-Over the weekend 9,10,11 October, Greta Davis' Blackhorse Range walk went, but there was no report and Les Powell's Ettrema Creek trip had 3 starters coping with a hot Saturday and cooler Sunday, but went to program. Jan Mohandas, starting from Saturday led an excellent gourmet weekend for his party of 9. They enjoyed an easy day on the Saturday but paid for it on the Sunday by scrub-bashing and rock-hopping their way back to catch the 4.35 pm train. Jim Percy's day test walk in the Royal N.P. attracted a party of 21, but of George Mawerls Mount Banks day walk there were few details, but we did hear that Sev Sternhell was along, testing out his leg.+ 
 +Over the weekend 9,10,11 October, Greta Davis' Blackhorse Range walk went, but there was no report and Les Powell's Ettrema Creek trip had 3 starters coping with a hot Saturday and cooler Sunday, but went to program. Jan Mohandas, starting from Saturday led an excellent gourmet weekend for his party of 9. They enjoyed an easy day on the Saturday but paid for it on the Sunday by scrub-bashing and rock-hopping their way back to catch the 4.35 pm train. Jim Percy's day test walk in the Royal N.P. attracted a party of 21, but of George Mawer'Mount Banks day walk there were few details, but we did hear that Sev Sternhell was along, testing out his leg. 
 Then followed the announcements, and the President released us yet again, with a gentle flick of the wrist, at 2158. Then followed the announcements, and the President released us yet again, with a gentle flick of the wrist, at 2158.
-* * * * * * * * * * 
-BELVEDERE TAXIS BLACKHEATH 
-10 SEATER MINI BUS TAXI 
-047-87 8366 
  
- KANANGRA BOYD +---- 
-. UPPER BLUE MOUNTAINS + 
-. SIX FOOT TRACK +=====Central Australia How To Organize Walking Trip.===== 
-PICK UP ANYWHERE FOR START OR FINISH OF YOUR WALK BY PRIOR ARRANGEMENT +
-Share the Fare Competitive Rates +
-November, 1967 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER Page 15 +
-CENTRAL AUSTRALIA HOW TO ORGANIZE WALKING TRIP.+
 by Ainslie Morris. by Ainslie Morris.
 +
 I was inspired by David Rostron to organize a group to walk in the MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs. Having been unable to join David's previous trips, his encouragement and detailed advice on a suitable route and the location of water for camps were all I needed. I also sought and was given reassurance from Frank Rigby, the S.B.W. pioneer of walking in the MacDonnells and author of "The MacDonnell Ranges" with photography by Henry Gold (1971). This book is out of print, but its clear map showing the general topography of this major Australian mountain range has been reduced and reproduced to illustrate this article. I was inspired by David Rostron to organize a group to walk in the MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs. Having been unable to join David's previous trips, his encouragement and detailed advice on a suitable route and the location of water for camps were all I needed. I also sought and was given reassurance from Frank Rigby, the S.B.W. pioneer of walking in the MacDonnells and author of "The MacDonnell Ranges" with photography by Henry Gold (1971). This book is out of print, but its clear map showing the general topography of this major Australian mountain range has been reduced and reproduced to illustrate this article.
-1. RECOMMENDED WALKS.+ 
 +====1. Recommended Walks.==== 
 The following five routes have been covered by various members and they are by no means exhaustive of the possibilities; the whole point of walking there is to explore the complex canyon country. You can take one day to walk past an area, or several days in it. The following five routes have been covered by various members and they are by no means exhaustive of the possibilities; the whole point of walking there is to explore the complex canyon country. You can take one day to walk past an area, or several days in it.
-(a) HUGH GORGE TO STANDLEY CHASM - 6 - 7 days Brinkley Bluff 3,950 feet a.s.l. (allow half day extra); allow 1 or 2 days extra to explore east of Standley Chasm. + 
-(b) ELLERY CREEK BIG HOLE TO STANDLEY CHASM - 6 to 7 days or 8 days to give 2 nights at Hugh Gorge. There is also a one day of hard and dreary walking which links up Mt. Giles with HUgh Gorge - better to organize transport for two separate walks if possible. +===(a) Hugh Gorge to Standley Chasm.=== 
-(c) MTCONWAY TO HUGH GORGE and return to STANDLEY CHASM - 10 to 11 days. + 
-(d) REDBANK GORGE TO SERPENTINE GORGE - 8 to 9 days, one more if walking from Glen Helen Tourist Camp. Includes Mt. Sonder 4,417 feet. +6 - 7 days Brinkley Bluff 3,950 feet a.s.l. (allow half day extra); allow 1 or 2 days extra to explore east of Standley Chasm. 
-(e) ORMISTON GORGE AND MTGILES - 3 to 6 days. + 
-Also you could drive or take a coach to KINGS CANYON where you can camp free, then continue beyond th end of the Tourist Track upstream and explore the extraordinary "lost City" of dome rocks which form a maze cut by narrow deep splits. Worth at least 1 night pack walk. +===(b) Ellery Creek Big Hole to Standley Chasm.=== 
-OLGAS - no camping permits. Easily seen in one day. Try the Olga Gorge for a challenging rock scramble. There are water pools. + 
-2. REFERENCES+6 to 7 days or 8 days to give 2 nights at Hugh Gorge. There is also a one day of hard and dreary walking which links up Mt. Giles with Hugh Gorge - better to organize transport for two separate walks if possible. 
-(a) Start by talking to previous leaders such as David Rostron , Jim Laing (knowledgable on whole area), Frank Rigby (lives in Canberra), myself, or others who have walked there. + 
-(b) Read The Sydney Bushwalker magazine articles (in the archives):+===(c) MtConway to Hugh Gorge and return to Standley Chasm.=== 
-Dot Butler's "Land of Altjira" - February & March 1972 + 
-Craig and Christine Austen's - September 1978 +10 to 11 days. 
-David Rostron's - July 1984 + 
-Tom Wilhelm's - September, October, November 1986+===(d) Redbank Gorge to Serpentine Gorge.=== 
 + 
 +8 to 9 days, one more if walking from Glen Helen Tourist Camp. Includes Mt. Sonder 4,417 feet. 
 + 
 +===(e) Oromiston Gorge and MtGiles.=== 
 + 
 +3 to 6 days. 
 + 
 + 
 +Also you could drive or take a coach to Kings Canyon where you can camp free, then continue beyond th end of the Tourist Track upstream and explore the extraordinary "lost City" of dome rocks which form a maze cut by narrow deep splits. Worth at least 1 night pack walk. 
 + 
 +===Olgas.=== 
 + 
 +No camping permits. Easily seen in one day. Try the Olga Gorge for a challenging rock scramble. There are water pools. 
 + 
 +====2. References.==== 
 + 
 +===(a) Talking.=== 
 + 
 +Start by talking to previous leaders such as David Rostron , Jim Laing (knowledgable on whole area), Frank Rigby (lives in Canberra), myself, or others who have walked there. 
 + 
 +===(b) Read.=== 
 + 
 +The Sydney Bushwalker magazine articles (in the archives):
 + 
 +  * Dot Butler's "Land of Altjira" - February & March 1972 
 +  Craig and Christine Austen's - September 1978 
 +  David Rostron's - July 1984 
 +  Tom Wilhelm's - September, October, November 1986 
 Also Route Notes by Frank Rigby 1978 for Serpentine Gorge to Redbank Gorge. Also Route Notes by Frank Rigby 1978 for Serpentine Gorge to Redbank Gorge.
-(c) Maps Hermannsburg 1:250,0110 - order 3-4 months before required - useful only for very general navigation and access from the road, Laparinta Drive.+   
 +===(c) Maps.=== 
 + 
 +Hermannsburg 1:250,0110 - order 3-4 months before required - useful only for very general navigation and access from the road, Laparinta Drive. 
 Similar scale maps of the whole area of about 200 km east to west can be obtained from N.R.M.A. and Northern Territory Tourist Office in Sydney. These show Aboriginal Land for which you need an entry permit. Similar scale maps of the whole area of about 200 km east to west can be obtained from N.R.M.A. and Northern Territory Tourist Office in Sydney. These show Aboriginal Land for which you need an entry permit.
-(d) Aerial Photographs. No large scale maps exist except for the small area east of Standley Chasm drawn by Alice Springs Bushwalkers. + 
-For the area from HUGH GORGE to STANDLEY CHASM I bought 3 black and white, and for Hugh +===(d) Aerial Photographs.=== 
-Gorge two colour as well. Total cost $27.52 (including postage of $2). Order about 3 months + 
-before required from:- Division of National Mapping, +No large scale maps exist except for the small area east of Standley Chasm drawn by Alice Springs Bushwalkers. 
-P.O. Box 31, Belconnen, 2616. + 
-Page 16 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER November, 1987 +For the area from Hugh Gorge to Standley Chasm I bought 3 black and white, and for Hugh Gorge two colour as well. Total cost $27.52 (including postage of $2). Order about 3 months before required from:- Division of National Mapping, P.O. Box 31, Belconnen, 2616. 
-To order, state: Area Name: Hermannsburg + 
-Area Number: F 53-13 +To order, state: 
-Film Number: CRC 2836 + 
-Run No.: 8 +  * Area Name: Hermannsburg 
-Print Numbers: 225, 228, 231 +  Area Number: F 53-13 
-Product Code: 1111 (Black and White) +  Film Number: CRC 2836 
-Total Quantity: 3+  Run No.: 8 
 +  Print Numbers: 225, 228, 231 
 +  Product Code: 1111 (Black and White) 
 +  Total Quantity: 3 
 +  
 The scale is 1:80,000 and adequate for detailed navigation. The colour photos are even larger scale and a pleasure to use for intense exploration of very small areas, which we did. All photos are of a convenient size to put in a normal broad map case. For assistance on ordering for areas further west of Hugh Gorge or east of Standley Chasm, ring up. The office is very helpful. The scale is 1:80,000 and adequate for detailed navigation. The colour photos are even larger scale and a pleasure to use for intense exploration of very small areas, which we did. All photos are of a convenient size to put in a normal broad map case. For assistance on ordering for areas further west of Hugh Gorge or east of Standley Chasm, ring up. The office is very helpful.
-3. TRANSPORT+ 
-Sydney to Alice Springs - cheapest is APEX direct flight - for school holidays you need to book and pay 6 months ahead at least. In July 1987 the fare was $404 return. The walking season is winter, May to September. +====3. Transport.==== 
-Transfers Book with Nbrthern Territory Tourist Office in Sydney which contacts suitable operators for you. Also our motel owners at ARURA SAFARI LODGE in Alice Springs, Tanya and Bruce, would be happy to book a minibus with trailer for you if staying there. Our transfers cost $35 return each for about 65 km out. + 
-Accommodation is not necessary but the cheapest is Arura Safari Lodge (apart from the Youth Hostel or camping area). Single $20, twin $30, share bathroom, use of kitchen and B.B.Q. and +===Sydney to Alice Springs.=== 
-laundry - all very useful. Phone number is (089) 52,3843. Book early for school holidays; + 
-other motels $50-$65 twin minimum. +Cheapest is Apex direct flight - for school holidays you need to book and pay 6 months ahead at least. In July 1987 the fare was $404 return. The walking season is winter, May to September. 
-Possible "Drop-off" Points - + 
-(1) For Hugh Gorge - Just before the Hugh River (signposted) - 60 km west of Alice Springs there is the 4WD road to STuart Pass clear and obvious on the right; or you can try to pick a suitable gap in the Heavitree Range and head north (about 15 km to the Hugh River further upstream); or enter at Standley Chasm. +===Transfers.=== 
-(ii) For further west, say Redbank Gorge, either Glen Helen Tourist Camp or if possible, about 20 km west of it; or you could start at Ormiston Gorge for Mt. Slander (no water), north into the Gorge (good water), east to Mt. Giles (water, allow 3 days for trip including one day to erplore); or Serpentine Gorge and go west to Ormiston Gorge; or Ellery Creek Big Hole and go east to Hugh Gorge. + 
-4. PERMITS TO 'ENTER ABORIGINAL LAND+Book with Northern Territory Tourist Office in Sydney which contacts suitable operators for you. Also our motel owners at Arura Safari Lodge in Alice Springs, Tanya and Bruce, would be happy to book a minibus with trailer for you if staying there. Our transfers cost $35 return each for about 65 km out. 
-Write at least 3 to 4 months before your walk if going on to aboriginal land, e.g. for Standley Chasm you are on the Iwdpataka Land Trust. PLEASE do not bushwalk or camp without apermit as S.B.W. could be banned forever, or you could be charged and fined a large sum. They were happy to grant us a permit, but leave plenty of time. Write for application forms to:- Central Land Council, P.O. Box 3321, Alice Springs, 5750. Or ring the Manager/ + 
-Administration (089) 52,3800. +===Accommodation.=== 
-5. SPECIAL GEAR+ 
-Shoes or boots of leather are essential for comfort as spinifex grass will pierce canvas and even enter ventilation holes; gaiters or strong cotton work trousers are also essential for comfort. +Is not necessary but the cheapest is Arura Safari Lodge (apart from the Youth Hostel or camping area). Single $20, twin $30, share bathroom, use of kitchen and B.B.Q. and laundry - all very useful. Phone number is (089) 52,3843. Book early for school holidays; other motels $50-$65 twin minimum. 
-Water bags e.g. 4 litre wine casks, one per person. + 
-Hat, and possibly light leather gloves or gardening gloves to keep out spinifex and briar thorns when climbing up or down steep hillsides.+===Possible "Drop-off" Points.=== 
 + 
 +(1) __For Hugh Gorge__ - Just before the Hugh River (signposted) - 60 km west of Alice Springs there is the 4WD road to Stuart Pass clear and obvious on the right; __or__ you can try to pick a suitable gap in the Heavitree Range and head north (about 15 km to the Hugh River further upstream); or enter at Standley Chasm. 
 + 
 +(ii) __For further west__, say Redbank Gorge, either Glen Helen Tourist Camp or if possible, about 20 km west of it; or you could start at Ormiston Gorge for Mt. Slander (no water), north into the Gorge (good water), east to Mt. Giles (water, allow 3 days for trip including one day to erplore); __or__ Serpentine Gorge and go west to Ormiston Gorge; or Ellery Creek Big Hole and go east to Hugh Gorge. 
 + 
 +====4. Permits To Enter Aboriginal Land.==== 
 + 
 +Write at least 3 to 4 months before your walk if going on to aboriginal land, e.g. for Standley Chasm you are on the Iwapataka Land Trust. __Please__ do not bushwalk or camp without apermit as S.B.W. could be banned forever, or you could be charged and fined a large sum. They were happy to grant us a permit, but leave plenty of time. Write for application forms to:- Central Land Council, P.O. Box 3321, Alice Springs, 5750. Or ring the Manager/Administration (089) 52,3800. 
 + 
 +====5. Special Gear.==== 
 + 
 +Shoes or boots of __leather__ are essential for comfort as spinifex grass will pierce canvas and even enter ventilation holes; gaiters or strong cotton work trousers are also essential for comfort. 
 + 
 +__Water bags__ e.g. 4 litre wine casks, one per person. 
 + 
 +__Hat__, and possibly light leather gloves or gardening gloves to keep out spinifex and briar thorns when climbing up or down steep hillsides. 
 Tent fly is useful to keep wind out and for rain, which, although extremely rare in winter, can come down in torrents. Tent fly is useful to keep wind out and for rain, which, although extremely rare in winter, can come down in torrents.
 +
 Sleeping bag rated minus 10 - it is usually mild to cool, but can freeze. Sleeping bag rated minus 10 - it is usually mild to cool, but can freeze.
 +
 I hope this information helps you. Happy walking! I hope this information helps you. Happy walking!
-************** 
-MAP: drawn by Gerry Sinzig from the book "The MacDonnell Ranges" by Frank Rigby (1973) reproduced with permission. 
-II 
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-ALTJIIRA 
-SHOWING THE 
-MacDONNELL RANGES FROM Mt SONDER TO ALICE SPRINGS 
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-hAISSION +Mapdrawn by Gerry Sinzig from the book "The MacDonnell Ranges" by Frank Rigby (1973) reproduced with permission
-MMSIONAUY + 
-NOTES +"AltjiraShowing the MacDonnell Ranges from Mt Sonder to Alice Springs." 
-0.1:v viv.. osa..C.1.S wlatat.OvITOALS MIL + 
-booTowOs INos +---- 
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-+
-5+
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-LJ N +
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198711.txt · Last modified: 2016/09/23 12:37 by tyreless

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