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- | EXPLORERS TREE - SIXFOOT TRACK | + | ===== Explorers Tree - Six Foot Track - Jenolan House. |
- | 15th APRIL 1989 | + | |
- | by Jim Percy Leader: Jan Mohandas | + | by Jim Percy |
+ | |||
+ | Leader: Jan Mohandas | ||
Participants: | Participants: | ||
- | Weather | + | |
- | Well, what an enjoyable walk! Who could have thought that 46 km in 9i hours walking | + | __Weather |
- | time (10 i-hours total time) would be enjoyable? The combination of great organisation, | + | |
- | I had spent the night at Linden and awoke to a multi-layered sunrise which behoved a day out of the ordinary. On arriving at Explorers Tree the just-suppressed excitement was catching, and the aroma of Dencorub on the crisp morning air also indicated that this was to be no ordinary day walk. A quick cup of tea, a few words of caution from Jan not to rush it | + | Well, what an enjoyable walk! Who could have thought that 46 km in 9½ hours walking time (10½ hours total time) would be enjoyable? The combination of great organisation, |
- | early, a request for the leaders to stop every hour on the hour to allow regrouping, and we were on our way (6.36 am). | + | |
+ | I had spent the night at Linden and awoke to a multi-layered sunrise which behoved a day out of the ordinary. On arriving at Explorers Tree the just-suppressed excitement was catching, and the aroma of Dencorub on the crisp morning air also indicated that this was to be no ordinary day walk. A quick cup of tea, a few words of caution from Jan not to rush it early, a request for the leaders to stop every hour on the hour to allow regrouping, and we were on our way (6.36 am). | ||
Nellie' | Nellie' | ||
+ | |||
Morning tea was enjoyed just before the Megalong Road, with everyone in fine spirits and no blisters reported yet (8.30 am). | Morning tea was enjoyed just before the Megalong Road, with everyone in fine spirits and no blisters reported yet (8.30 am). | ||
- | The roar from the valley below, as we descended the trail, raised our worst fears, that we would not get across the Cox's, and we would have to back-track to Explorers Tree. " | + | |
- | it look to you Jim?" (Michelle' | + | The roar from the valley below, as we descended the trail, raised our worst fears, that we would not get across the Cox's, and we would have to back-track to Explorers Tree. " |
- | looked twice as wide as I had ever seen it before). "Looks OK! It often sounds loud from | + | |
- | up here," was the non-committal reply. | + | |
We couldn' | We couldn' | ||
- | Stage I was OK with water up to the crutch and the wonder if the next step would put it over our heads. | + | |
+ | Stage 1 was OK with water up to the crutch and the wonder if the next step would put it over our heads. | ||
Stage 2 was a bit trickier with very fast flowing water which appeared to be about a metre deep. A rope was stretched across this section and was very much required with almost everyone being swept off their feet. | Stage 2 was a bit trickier with very fast flowing water which appeared to be about a metre deep. A rope was stretched across this section and was very much required with almost everyone being swept off their feet. | ||
- | Which brought us to Stage 3 - a 20 metre stretch of fast flowing dark brown water at least two metres deep in the centre. A couple of trial swims by the stronger swimmers and | + | |
- | it was declared a goer. I just wondered if I could swim fast enough to make the other bank | + | Which brought us to Stage 3 - a 20 metre stretch of fast flowing dark brown water at least two metres deep in the centre. A couple of trial swims by the stronger swimmers and it was declared a goer. I just wondered if I could swim fast enough to make the other bank before being swept to Flaggi Clear - or even Harry' |
- | before being swept to Flaggi Clear - or even Harry' | + | |
- | After some adventures, we were across, warming ourselves in the sun and enjoying a quick snack while thanking those strong swimmers for all the help. Special thanks were due to | + | After some adventures, we were across, warming ourselves in the sun and enjoying a quick snack while thanking those strong swimmers for all the help. Special thanks were due to Chris O'Neal and Ian Rannard. Ian Rannard, who a few weeks before wouldn' |
- | Chris O'Neal and Ian Rannard. Ian Rannard, who a few weeks before wouldn' | + | |
- | Woronora, because he didn't like cold water, and there he was at the Cox's, swimming over and back for the fourth or fifth time, to regain his hat! | + | We were on our way again by 10.30 and the next stop at 11 am was the last we were to get before lunch. A very long uphill slog, I remember it as continual up - for 2¼ hours, although the section drawing will show considerable downs. The pluviometer was a very welcome lunch spot, with the last to arrive still enjoying a half hour for lunch. |
- | We were on our way again by 10.30 and the next stop at 11 am was the last we were to get before lunch. A very long uphill slog, I remember it as continual up - for 2* hours, although | + | |
- | the section drawing will show considerable downs. The pluviometer was a very welcome lunch | + | The next 9 km, along Black Range, flashed by in one and a half hours (some of us took a little longer) which brought us to the Jenolan Road and the back-up vehicles. A very welcome sight for those who didn't want to walk on to Caves House. However most elected to carry on, a decision made a whole lot easier with the arrival of the orange juice and apples, supplied by Bill and Fran Holland, Ian Debert, Joy Hynes and guests, who took time off from their Jenolan Caves weekend to cheer us on our way. We were off on the last section at 3.30 pm. |
- | spot, with the last to arrive still enjoying a half hour for lunch. | + | |
- | The next 9 km, along Black Range, flashed by in one and a half hours (some of us took a | + | The first four or five kilometres on the road were a bit of a bore, although Maurie Bloom relieved the monotony by dashing off on to the forest trails beside the road, ostensibly to get away from the traffic, but how come, every time we caught sight of him through the trees, he was running? |
- | little longer) which brought us to the Jenolan Road and the back-up vehicles. A very welcome | + | |
- | sight for those who didn't want to walk on to Caves House. However most elected to carry on, | + | From the Kiaora Hill cabins though it was all quite different, a great end to a great walk in the soft afternoon light. So enchanting was this section in fact, that many of us ran down the hill to finish |
- | a decision made a whole lot easier with the arrival of the orange juice and apples, supplied | + | |
- | Page 4 | + | The run down the hill that is, not the aching muscles. |
- | The Sydney Busnwaiker June 1989 | + | |
- | by Bill and Fran Holland, Ian Debert, Joy Hynes and guests, who took time off from their Jenolan Caves weekend to cheer us on our way. We were off on the last section at 3.30 pm. | + | [ Elevation Diagram |
- | The first four or five kilometres on the road were a bit of a bore, although Maurie Bloom relieved the monotony by dashing off on to the forest trails beside the road, ostensibly to get away from the traffic, but how come, every time we caught sight of him through the trees, he was | + | |
- | running? | + | First to finish was Maurie Bloom at 4.30 pm. Then came Ian Rannard at 4.40, Jan Mohandas at 4.45 and Michelle Powell at 4.50 followed by Bert Carter. Bert had been determined to finish in front of Michelle but lost his chance by taking a side track which took him half-way down to Carlotta' |
- | From the Kiaora Hill cabins though it was all quite different, a great end to a great walk in the soft afternoon light. So enchanting was this | + | |
- | section in fact, that many -)f us ran down the hill to Finish | + | |
- | The run down the hill that Is, not the aching muscles.15/V 0 Al | + | |
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- | irst to finish was Maurie Bloom at 4.30 pm. rhen came Ian Rannard at 4.40, Jan Mohandas at 4.45 and Michelle Powell at 4.50 followed by Bert | + | |
- | Carter. Bert had been determined to finish in front of Michelle but lost his chance by taking a side track which took him half-way down to Carlotta' | + | |
Everyone was in by 5.30-ish and after a quick drink with Fran, Bill, Joy and Ian at Caves House we packed into the back-up vehicles for the drive back to Gardiner' | Everyone was in by 5.30-ish and after a quick drink with Fran, Bill, Joy and Ian at Caves House we packed into the back-up vehicles for the drive back to Gardiner' | ||
+ | |||
The back-up crew deserve a special mention along with our thanks - Kay Wasielewski, | The back-up crew deserve a special mention along with our thanks - Kay Wasielewski, | ||
+ | |||
Jan is planning an even bigger and better day walk later in the year, so if you missed this one stay tuned! | Jan is planning an even bigger and better day walk later in the year, so if you missed this one stay tuned! | ||
- | * * * * * * * * | ||
- | ADVANCE NOTICE tieptemnr 8/9/1U. | ||
- | Three coordinated walks: Leaders. Jan Mohandas, George Walton, Geoff Bradley | ||
- | 1. Overnight IA Kanangra Car park - Mt. Stormbreaker - Thunder bend - Kanangra Ck - Murdering Gully - Kanangra Car park (Leader : George Walton (Tel: 498-7956, before 9 pm), Grade - Medium, Distance: 28 km) Test Walk | ||
- | 2. K to KKanan ra to I(atooml on Saturday 9th September (Leader: Jan Mohandas (Tel: 872-2315), Grade: Very hard, Distance: 55 km) Limit: 10. Contact Jan before September 1st to discuss about this walk. | ||
- | 3. Overnight walk: Canons Farm - Canons Ck - Breakfast Ck - Blackhorse ridge- Mobbs Soak (camp) - Splendour Rock - Mt. Werrigal - Medlow gap - Carlons Farm (Leader: Geoff Bradley (Tel: 498-5506), Grade : Medium, Distance: 30 km) | ||
- | =====Cycling | + | ---- |
+ | |||
+ | ===== Advance Notice. September 8/9/10. ===== | ||
+ | |||
+ | Three coordinated walks: Leaders. Jan Mohandas, George Walton, Geoff Bradley. | ||
+ | |||
+ | 1. __Overnight Walk__: Kanangra Car park - Mt. Stormbreaker - Thunder bend - Kanangra Ck - Murdering Gully - Kanangra Car park (Leader : George Walton (Tel: 498-7956, before 9 pm), Grade - Medium, Distance: 28 km). Test Walk. | ||
+ | |||
+ | 2. __K to K (Kanangra to Katoomba) Day Walk on Saturday 9th September__ (Leader: Jan Mohandas (Tel: 872-2315), Grade: Very hard, Distance: 55 km) Limit: 10. Contact Jan before September 1st to discuss about this walk. | ||
+ | |||
+ | 3. __Overnight walk__: Carlons Farm - Carlons Ck - Breakfast Ck - Blackhorse ridge - Mobbs Soak (camp) - Splendour Rock - Mt. Werrigal - Medlow gap - Carlons Farm (Leader: Geoff Bradley (Tel: 498-5506), Grade : Medium, Distance: 30 km) | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===== Cycling | ||
by Wal Liddle | by Wal Liddle | ||
- | Walter | + | __Walter |
It was warm with a cool breeze when we alighted from the Monaro Express at 12.15 on the 10th January and collected our heavily laden bikes from the guard' | It was warm with a cool breeze when we alighted from the Monaro Express at 12.15 on the 10th January and collected our heavily laden bikes from the guard' | ||
Line 174: | Line 157: | ||
About 5 pm we rode past a sawmill and over the Molonglo Bridge near Captains Flat. The town consisted of fibro houses set out in two or three criss-cross streets overshadowed by a huge spoil heap with remnants of mining equipment scattered about. A two-storey brick hotel (circa 1940), tea rooms and a general store were in the short main street. Opposite was the football oval, camping ground and RSL Club. After dining in the tea rooms we asked if it would be possible to have a hot shower in the toilet block in the camping grounds. The local Rotary Club had the key. Alas, the President was not prepared to drive 10 km to town to open the showers for three bike riders, so dusk saw us splashing ourselves with icy water in the river at the back of the camp site. | About 5 pm we rode past a sawmill and over the Molonglo Bridge near Captains Flat. The town consisted of fibro houses set out in two or three criss-cross streets overshadowed by a huge spoil heap with remnants of mining equipment scattered about. A two-storey brick hotel (circa 1940), tea rooms and a general store were in the short main street. Opposite was the football oval, camping ground and RSL Club. After dining in the tea rooms we asked if it would be possible to have a hot shower in the toilet block in the camping grounds. The local Rotary Club had the key. Alas, the President was not prepared to drive 10 km to town to open the showers for three bike riders, so dusk saw us splashing ourselves with icy water in the river at the back of the camp site. | ||
- | I awoke stiff and sore from the previous day's 45 km, and joined John and Lyn for a muesli breakfast. On the first hill out of town the gears on my bike seized, bringing me to a standstill. I found that the locking ring to the back cluster had come undone, resulting | + | I awoke stiff and sore from the previous day's 45 km, and joined John and Lyn for a muesli breakfast. On the first hill out of town the gears on my bike seized, bringing me to a standstill. I found that the locking ring to the back cluster had come undone, resulting in the loss of most of the ball bearings. With John's help I put the wheel together again and cycled on with a wobbly set of cogs. A strange noise came from the back axle and the chain came off every now and then, but we managed to keep moving. The day's riding on dirt roads led us into Tallanganda State Forest and over the Great Dividing Range. I walked up a lot of the hills, while my companions cycled slowly on with their low gears. |
- | in the loss of most of the ball bearings. With John's help I put the wheel together again and cycled on with a wobbly set of cogs. A strange noise came from the back axle and the chain came off every now and then, but we managed to keep moving. The day's riding on dirt | + | |
- | roads led us into Tallanganda State Forest and over the Great Dividing Range. I walked up a lot of the hills, while my companions cycled slowly on with their low gears. | + | |
Although it was hot, there was a cool wind and we were protected by the eucalypts which overhung the road. We enjoyed great views of the Bendoura and Berlang State Forests. In these forests are Iron Bark, Silvertop Ash, Sydney Peppermint, Turpentine, Yellow Stringybark and Spotted Coastal Grey Box with an understory of Burrawang Palms. | Although it was hot, there was a cool wind and we were protected by the eucalypts which overhung the road. We enjoyed great views of the Bendoura and Berlang State Forests. In these forests are Iron Bark, Silvertop Ash, Sydney Peppermint, Turpentine, Yellow Stringybark and Spotted Coastal Grey Box with an understory of Burrawang Palms. | ||
- | The further we went, the rougher the road became, with stones, water channels and corrugations. Traffic was almost non-existent. We had lunch at the Ballaba Bridge on a tributary of the Shoalhaven River. That afternoon, after a grueling 10 km of stony road, we came to | + | The further we went, the rougher the road became, with stones, water channels and corrugations. Traffic was almost non-existent. We had lunch at the Ballaba Bridge on a tributary of the Shoalhaven River. That afternoon, after a grueling 10 km of stony road, we came to Major' |
- | Major' | + | |
- | At the pub we enquired the way to Araluen as our map and a signpost seemed to be showing different directions. The local drinkers told us the sign was correct but the road down the mountain was very rough and steep. In the 1800's this dirt road was used by horse-drawn | + | At the pub we enquired the way to Araluen as our map and a signpost seemed to be showing different directions. The local drinkers told us the sign was correct but the road down the mountain was very rough and steep. In the 1800's this dirt road was used by horse-drawn vehicles, with a log tied to the back to slow them down. In those times the way was so narrow that alternate days were allocated for the up or down journey. |
- | vehicles, with a log tied to the back to slow them down. In those times the way was so narrow that alternate days were allocated for the up or down journey. | + | |
We stopped at Clarke' | We stopped at Clarke' | ||
Line 191: | Line 170: | ||
Our journey down the mountain was ' | Our journey down the mountain was ' | ||
+ | |||
+ | [ Part of road map of New South Wales. ] | ||
Next day we rode through the sleepy villages of Araluen North, Araluen and Araluen Lower. The main street of Araluen contained a hotel and a derelict post office with a shingle roof. It was hard to believe that the area had once supported 29 hotels. These had featured imported German bands and dancing girls from Sydney as entertainment. | Next day we rode through the sleepy villages of Araluen North, Araluen and Araluen Lower. The main street of Araluen contained a hotel and a derelict post office with a shingle roof. It was hard to believe that the area had once supported 29 hotels. These had featured imported German bands and dancing girls from Sydney as entertainment. | ||
- | The road twisted and turned, following Deua/Mbruya | + | The road twisted and turned, following Deua/Moruya |
- | It was near here that the Jubilee Inn had stood, a favourite haunt of the bushrangers, | + | It was near here that the Jubilee Inn had stood, a favourite haunt of the bushrangers, |
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===== Conservation. ===== | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Submissions. === | ||
+ | |||
+ | In addition to the Kanangra-Boyd Submission detailed last month, Alex Colley has written asking that Wheoh Park in the Warrumbungle area be declared a part of the wilderness area there. It has vegetation which is uncommon in most of our parks, cypress pine and bloodwood, typical of the western plains. | ||
- | CONSERVATION SUBMISSIONS | ||
- | In addition to the Kanangra-Boyd Submission detailed last month, Alex Colley has written | ||
- | asking that Wheoh Park in the Warrumbungle area be declared a part of the wilderness area there. It has vegetation which is uncommon in most of our parks, cypress pine and bloodwood, typical of the western plains. | ||
In the Border Ranges National Park, the Lost World area has been nominated as wilderness. At present it is virtually untouched, a truly pristine rain-forest, | In the Border Ranges National Park, the Lost World area has been nominated as wilderness. At present it is virtually untouched, a truly pristine rain-forest, | ||
- | Alex Colley has also completed a submission to the Blue Mountains Environment Plan, | ||
- | tendered by the Katoomba Council. The submission details guidelines for proper future | ||
- | development in the Blue Mountains. Hopefully, it will convince the council to resist applications for 'rim development' | ||
- | It's an ill wind that doesn' | ||
- | from as far away as Blackheath to the Winmalee treatment works. Perhaps that will remove the stench from around Leura Falls. | ||
- | QuapiglE/ | ||
- | cAPTAmIS FkAT | ||
- | NN>1( | ||
- | itu | ||
- | "zgl! Ne/ | ||
- | r o R. oku mA-P I/7 | ||
- | oF NEW Scorn, WAL-ES | ||
- | 9/1 I F OCEAN | ||
- | 1 eVIE4 | ||
- | ########## | ||
- | June 1989 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 7 | ||
- | =====Famous Last Words===== | + | Alex Colley has also completed a submission to the Blue Mountains Environment Plan, tendered by the Katoomba Council. The submission details guidelines for proper future development in the Blue Mountains. Hopefully, it will convince the council to resist applications for 'rim development' |
+ | |||
+ | It's an ill wind that doesn' | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===== Famous Last Words. ===== | ||
+ | |||
+ | by Bill Burke | ||
- | by Bill BUrke | + | (First published in teh magazine January 1977) |
Chris rang on Thursday to check up that the trip was going - " | Chris rang on Thursday to check up that the trip was going - " | ||
Line 235: | Line 213: | ||
Wet rocks slowed some of the party and these together with cold saturated feet from the numerous creek crossings allied with the continual rain made conditions generally unpleasant and cold. Stops were only long enough to enable the tail-enders to catch up. No opportunity to laze and yarn and enjoy the many green grassy flats that are such a feature of Murruin Creek in sunny weather. | Wet rocks slowed some of the party and these together with cold saturated feet from the numerous creek crossings allied with the continual rain made conditions generally unpleasant and cold. Stops were only long enough to enable the tail-enders to catch up. No opportunity to laze and yarn and enjoy the many green grassy flats that are such a feature of Murruin Creek in sunny weather. | ||
- | Lunch was to be a 20 minute stand and eat; a fire would have taken too long and it was too cold and miserable to stand around. Revived memories of a similar lunch break at the junction of Christy' | + | Lunch was to be a 20 minute stand and eat; a fire would have taken too long and it was too cold and miserable to stand around. Revived memories of a similar lunch break at the junction of Christy' |
- | had traversed the Tonalli Range and had seen nothing but mist and driving rain for 21 days on that occasion. | + | |
- | I was half-way through my lunch when the tail-enders arrived. Two soaked and shivering with gear totally unsuitable for wet weather, and the third to quote " | + | I was half-way through my lunch when the tail-enders arrived. Two soaked and shivering with gear totally unsuitable for wet weather, and the third to quote " |
- | at a soaking wet campsite on the highlands just on dusk was out of the question. We promptly suspended lunch, got a fire going, and put our freezing member to bed. | + | |
It was an unfriendly, wet afternoon. Some slept and the remainder spent their time collecting firewood and standing around a fire built to withstand any amount of rain. A half-hour break in the rain gave us an opportunity to dry out wet groundsheets and other gear. Plans were made by the more energetic for a 7 am start to complete the trip as per program. Tea was cooked in the rain and eaten standing up in the rain. Dark closed in with the rain, and bodies rapidly disappeared into the green, gold and red tents dotting the grassy flat. | It was an unfriendly, wet afternoon. Some slept and the remainder spent their time collecting firewood and standing around a fire built to withstand any amount of rain. A half-hour break in the rain gave us an opportunity to dry out wet groundsheets and other gear. Plans were made by the more energetic for a 7 am start to complete the trip as per program. Tea was cooked in the rain and eaten standing up in the rain. Dark closed in with the rain, and bodies rapidly disappeared into the green, gold and red tents dotting the grassy flat. | ||
Line 245: | Line 221: | ||
Murruin Creek was still shallow and clear and Bindook Creek still hidden beneath the boulders lining its mouth. | Murruin Creek was still shallow and clear and Bindook Creek still hidden beneath the boulders lining its mouth. | ||
- | Stacked some wet wood between some sheets of old iron on the fire, and so, after 6 hours standing round in the rain, Chris and I - the last two - wished each other a cheery goodnight and off to bed. Not for long, however. My drying system worked only too well, and within | + | Stacked some wet wood between some sheets of old iron on the fire, and so, after 6 hours standing round in the rain, Chris and I - the last two - wished each other a cheery goodnight and off to bed. Not for long, however. My drying system worked only too well, and within half an hour the wood was not only dry but burning brightly. A hurried dash to scatter the burning wood in all directions and then stand on one of the burning sticks, before restacking the precious morning firewood. |
- | half an hour the wood was not only dry but burning brightly. A hurried dash to scatter the burning wood in all directions and then stand on one of the burning sticks, before restacking the precious morning firewood. | + | |
Awoke to the sound of roaring water down the creek. Other noises around the fireplace indicated that some at least were prepared to move off at 7 am as planned. Some remaining coals and the dry wood made firelighting easy; soon all were up bright and energetic, even if not brimming over with enthusiasm. Laurie had spent most of the night in a soaking wet bag due to the heavy rain. Murruin Creek was now a muddy torrent and Bindook had well and truly swallowed up the boulders at the mouth. Beyond, the junction was a wide yellow river covering the valley floor. | Awoke to the sound of roaring water down the creek. Other noises around the fireplace indicated that some at least were prepared to move off at 7 am as planned. Some remaining coals and the dry wood made firelighting easy; soon all were up bright and energetic, even if not brimming over with enthusiasm. Laurie had spent most of the night in a soaking wet bag due to the heavy rain. Murruin Creek was now a muddy torrent and Bindook had well and truly swallowed up the boulders at the mouth. Beyond, the junction was a wide yellow river covering the valley floor. | ||
Line 256: | Line 231: | ||
Arriving back at the Cousins home to be greeted with, "You look a miserable lot. You won't be able to cross the Wollondilly - the river is 5 feet over the bridge." | Arriving back at the Cousins home to be greeted with, "You look a miserable lot. You won't be able to cross the Wollondilly - the river is 5 feet over the bridge." | ||
- | Inspection revealed a palace; carpet on the floor, two stoves, a pot-belly and a cooker no less, and with the assistance of Mr. Cousins the party was soon settled in; fires were going, wet gear draped round and the inevitable cup of tea in the making. Time passed, numerous phone calls were made to acquaint all at home about our late arrival, and we wondered about Pat and his party. The creek was checkednand | + | Inspection revealed a palace; carpet on the floor, two stoves, a pot-belly and a cooker no less, and with the assistance of Mr. Cousins the party was soon settled in; fires were going, wet gear draped round and the inevitable cup of tea in the making. Time passed, numerous phone calls were made to acquaint all at home about our late arrival, and we wondered about Pat and his party. The creek was checked and looked none too promising. Mr. Cousins had mentioned the possibility of using his boat. And lo! there they were; had crossed and were on their way to the bridge when the Cousins directed them down to the shed. |
Roll call on the provision front revealed that we had enough for at least one meal. Two heavy-weights produced a loaf of vogel bread each, and others contributed an assortment of riso-rica, a potato, peas, soups and dried fruit, all of which ended up in a first class stew. Mr. Cousins offered us chops and biscuits which we declined, and on another visit fresh milk, weetbix and biscuits for breakfast, which we accepted with pleasure. John Redfern went up to the house to collect the goodies and numerous cups of tea, cakes, scones, jam and cream; later returned to describe all this to us with great gusto. | Roll call on the provision front revealed that we had enough for at least one meal. Two heavy-weights produced a loaf of vogel bread each, and others contributed an assortment of riso-rica, a potato, peas, soups and dried fruit, all of which ended up in a first class stew. Mr. Cousins offered us chops and biscuits which we declined, and on another visit fresh milk, weetbix and biscuits for breakfast, which we accepted with pleasure. John Redfern went up to the house to collect the goodies and numerous cups of tea, cakes, scones, jam and cream; later returned to describe all this to us with great gusto. | ||
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Cup of tea was declared - marvellous thing, a cup of tea - whilst we considered our position. Was soon consumed and as the rain started to sprinkle again I decided to head for the verandah of the Jock Creek Hut, information by courtesy of Mr. Cousins, whilst the others stayed to wish the river down. Was soon comfortable in a cane armchair midst the cow dung and other assorted paraphernalia. The rain continued and one by one the others drifted in. Dick was the last and finding all chairs occupied did a little furter exploration to find an open room with - wonder of wonders - a double bed complete with mattress. A proposal by him and Pat that all should head for Wombeyan Caves receiving little support, he promptly retired to bed for several hours. | Cup of tea was declared - marvellous thing, a cup of tea - whilst we considered our position. Was soon consumed and as the rain started to sprinkle again I decided to head for the verandah of the Jock Creek Hut, information by courtesy of Mr. Cousins, whilst the others stayed to wish the river down. Was soon comfortable in a cane armchair midst the cow dung and other assorted paraphernalia. The rain continued and one by one the others drifted in. Dick was the last and finding all chairs occupied did a little furter exploration to find an open room with - wonder of wonders - a double bed complete with mattress. A proposal by him and Pat that all should head for Wombeyan Caves receiving little support, he promptly retired to bed for several hours. | ||
- | The weather was getting bleaker and colder and my burnt foot was starting to make its presence felt, so I slipped into my sleeping bag and made myself even more comfortable in the armchair. A trick I learnt in the army; if you have no place to go, then lie back and | + | The weather was getting bleaker and colder and my burnt foot was starting to make its presence felt, so I slipped into my sleeping bag and made myself even more comfortable in the armchair. A trick I learnt in the army; if you have no place to go, then lie back and enjoy what you can of the situation. |
- | enjoy what you can of the situation. | + | |
And so the morning passed. The ever restless Chris and Pat decided to head for Wombeyan Caves without packs and bring back taxis; made a further lengthy inspection of the river, reported a Police Car and much waving of arms and shouting which indicated that a lengthy wait was in progress, and then changed their minds and headed back to Barrallier for news via the phone. Laurie Quaken - wandering in circles - was cajoled into lighting a fire for another cuppa. Mal, John and Alan Fall rechecked the river. | And so the morning passed. The ever restless Chris and Pat decided to head for Wombeyan Caves without packs and bring back taxis; made a further lengthy inspection of the river, reported a Police Car and much waving of arms and shouting which indicated that a lengthy wait was in progress, and then changed their minds and headed back to Barrallier for news via the phone. Laurie Quaken - wandering in circles - was cajoled into lighting a fire for another cuppa. Mal, John and Alan Fall rechecked the river. | ||
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Lunch was served. One sweet bixie, one dry bixie and one very small piece of cheese per person. | Lunch was served. One sweet bixie, one dry bixie and one very small piece of cheese per person. | ||
- | Come 3 pm, even I got restless and the whole party proceeded to the river to perform obtuse mathematical calculations as to the rate of fall and other probabilities or possibilities. The top half of the guide posts were now visible and an obvious pressure wave had | + | Come 3 pm, even I got restless and the whole party proceeded to the river to perform obtuse mathematical calculations as to the rate of fall and other probabilities or possibilities. The top half of the guide posts were now visible and an obvious pressure wave had formed over the bridge. Dick, the ever ambitious - the crossing of Murruin Creek must have gone to his head - contemplated swimming the river. As we had no wish to lose a good friend this was vetoed. Back to the fire to wonder over the fate of our restless duo who raced in at 6 pm more intent on regaling us with stories of sao biscuits thick with butter and cheese, tea with milk and sugar, etc, than with the information that the river would not fall at least before Wednesday and possibly not before Saturday. |
- | formed over the bridge. Dick, the ever ambitious - the crossing of Murruin Creek must have gone to his head - contemplated swimming the river. As we had no wish to lose a good friend this was vetoed. Back to the fire to wonder over the fate of our restless duo who raced in | + | |
- | at 6 pm more intent on regaling us with stories of sao biscuits thick with butter and cheese, tea with milk and sugar, etc, than with the information that the river would not fall at least before Wednesday and possibly not before Saturday. | + | |
- | Decision made, we threw on our parkas and raced off the ten or so miles to Wombeyan Caves. The first party consisting of Pat, Dick, Mal, Alan and myself arrived at 9.45 pm and the remainder half an hour later. The manager of the kiosk remained guardedly behind | + | Decision made, we threw on our parkas and raced off the ten or so miles to Wombeyan Caves. The first party consisting of Pat, Dick, Mal, Alan and myself arrived at 9.45 pm and the remainder half an hour later. The manager of the kiosk remained guardedly behind his fly-screen door and who can blame him. The arrival of five dirty, smelly, dripping bodies encased in parkas out of the dusk would be enough to scare anyone. |
- | his fly-screen door and who can blame him. The arrival of five dirty, smelly, dripping bodies encased in parkas out of the dusk would be enough to scare anyone. No, there was no local transport available. No, he didn't think we could ring Goulburn, the exchange was closed. "You people certainly get yourselves in a mess, don't you?" Yes, he would try to ring Goulburn - the atmosphere was thawing all the time - didn't we want to know the cost? Yes, he would open up the kiosk and let us buy some food. The flydoor actually opened. A slight delay and then the taxis were on the way, kiosk opened, food purchased between much talk and laughter and then a friendly, affable soul raced off down the road to open up a public shelter shed complete with electric light and water hot enough to make the inevitable tea and this time, coffee. | + | |
+ | No, there was no local transport available. No, he didn't think we could ring Goulburn, the exchange was closed. "You people certainly get yourselves in a mess, don't you?" Yes, he would try to ring Goulburn - the atmosphere was thawing all the time - didn't we want to know the cost? Yes, he would open up the kiosk and let us buy some food. The flydoor actually opened. A slight delay and then the taxis were on the way, kiosk opened, food purchased between much talk and laughter and then a friendly, affable soul raced off down the road to open up a public shelter shed complete with electric light and water hot enough to make the inevitable tea and this time, coffee. | ||
Had barely finished eating and cleaning up when the taxis arrived and we were off to Goulburn. The driver was friendly and talkative, the others dozed off to sleep and I was regaled with stories of the odd types of men and women who hire taxis. He was dubious about getting down to the Wollondilly on the other side, but after I mentioned the police car, promptly replied, "Where the ' | Had barely finished eating and cleaning up when the taxis arrived and we were off to Goulburn. The driver was friendly and talkative, the others dozed off to sleep and I was regaled with stories of the odd types of men and women who hire taxis. He was dubious about getting down to the Wollondilly on the other side, but after I mentioned the police car, promptly replied, "Where the ' | ||
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In retrospect, a lovely extended weekend with an extra ten mile walk, a 130 mile taxi drive and $14 per head must go on record as the longest, costliest crossing of the Wollondilly ever. | In retrospect, a lovely extended weekend with an extra ten mile walk, a 130 mile taxi drive and $14 per head must go on record as the longest, costliest crossing of the Wollondilly ever. | ||
- | THE SYDNEY BUSHWA E | + | ---- |
- | CANOE & CAMPING | + | |
- | 265 VICTORIA ROAD GLADESVILLE 211 | + | === Canoe & Camping. === |
- | PHONE (02) 817 5590 HOURS - HON-FRI 9-5.30 | + | |
- | THURS - 9-7 | + | 265 Victoria Road, Gladesville, |
- | SAT -9-4 (PARKING AT REAR, OFF PITTWATER ROAD)226 PRINCES HIGHWAY KOGARAH BAY 2217 PHONE (02) 546 5455 HOURS --HON-FRI | + | |
- | THURS - 9-7 | + | 226 Princes Highway, Kogarah Bay, 2217. Phone (02) 546 5455. Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5.30, Thurs 9-7, Sat - 9-4. |
- | SAT | + | |
- | A LARGE RANGE OF LIGHTWEIGHT, QUALITY, BUSHWALKING Et CAMPING GEAR | + | A large range of lightweight, quality, bushwalking & camping gear: |
- | LIGHTWEIGHT FOOD FOR BACKPACKERS AND CANOEISTS. | + | |
- | COLD WEATHER PROTECTION CLOTHING AND RAINGEAR | + | * Lightweight food for backpackers and canoeists |
- | MAPS, BOOKS AND LEAFLETS | + | * Cold weather protection clothing and raingear |
- | INFORMATION SERVICE FOR CANOEISTS AND WALKERS | + | * Maps, books and leaflets |
- | KNIVES | + | * Information service for canoeists and walkers |
- | WE STOCK THE LARGEST RANGE OF CANOEING GEAR IN N.S.W. | + | |
- | QUALIP( TOURING CRAFT OF ALL TYPES HIGH QUALITY. PERFORMANCE COMPETITION CRAFT | + | * Compasses |
- | | + | * Survival gear |
- | ALL TYPES OF SPRAY COVERS | + | |
- | FOOTWEAR | + | We stock the largest range of canoeing gear in N.S.W. |
- | June 1989 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 11 | + | |
+ | Quality touring craft of all types. High quality, performance competition craft. | ||
+ | |||
+ | * A huge range of paddles for all types of canoeing | ||
+ | * Wetsuits | ||
+ | * Surf skis | ||
+ | | ||
+ | * Wide range of jackets | ||
+ | * Face masks | ||
+ | | ||
+ | * Many types of buoyancy | ||
+ | * Helmets | ||
+ | |||
+ | ---- | ||
+ | |||
THE MAY GENERAL MEETING | THE MAY GENERAL MEETING | ||
. by Barry Wallace | . by Barry Wallace |
198906.txt · Last modified: 2019/05/14 12:54 by tyreless