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-A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers Incorporated, Box 4476 GPO, Sydney 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.45 pm at the Ella Community Centre, 58a Dalhousie
+====== The Sydney Bushwalker ======
-Street, Haberfield (next door to the Post Office). Prospective members
+Established June 1931
+A monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers Incorporated, Box 4476 GPO, Sydney 2001. Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening from 7.45 pm at the Ella Community Centre, 58a Dalhousie Street, Haberfield (next door to the Post Office). Prospective members
 and visitors are invited to visit the Club any Wednesday. To advertise
 in this magazine please contact the Business Manager.
-EDITOR
-BUSINESS MANAGER
+|**Editor**|Morag Ryder, Box 347 PO, Gladesville 2111 \\ Telephone 809 4241|
-PRODUCTION MANAGER
+|**Business Manager**|Anita Doherty, 2 Marine Crescent, Hornsby Heights 2077 \\ Telephone 476 6531|
-TYPIST
+|**Production Manager**|Helen Gray \\ Telephone 86 6263|
-ILLUSTRATOR
+|**Typist**|Kath Brown|
-PRINTERS
+|**Illustrator**|Morag Ryder|
-Morag Ryder, Box 347 PO, Gladesville 2111 Telephone 809 4241
+|**Printers**|Kenn Clacher, Les Powell, Margaret Niven|
-Anita Doherty, 2 Marine Crescent, Hornsby Heights 2077 Telephone 476 6531
-Helen Gray Telephone 86 6263
+===== January 1990 =====
-Kath Brown
-Morag Ryder
+| | |Page|
-Kenn Clacher, Les Powell, Margaret Niven
+|While the Billy Boils|The Editor|2|
-JANUARY 1990
+|Book Review - "Sing With the Wind"| |2|
-While the Billy Boils
+|Mittagong to Katoomba - Part 1|Morag Ryder|3|
-Book Review - "Sing With the Wind" Mittagong to Katoomba - Part I
+|Why World Heritage? - A book review| |4|
-Why World Heritage? - A book review
+|All You Need to Know About the BIRD Track|Jim Brown|5|
-All You Need to Know About the BIRD Track "Environment 190"
+|"Environment '90"| |6|
-Portrait of a Climber - Part 2
+|Portrait of a Climber - Part 2|'Clio'|7|
-The December General Meeting
+|The December General Meeting|Barry Wallace|11|
-Mount Cameron to Bell Federation Notes
+|Mount Cameron to Bell|David Rostron|14|
-Footnotes
+|Federation Notes| |16|
-Advertisements
+|Footnotes| |16|
-Y
-Blackheath Taxis & Tourist Services
+===== Advertisements =====
-Eastwood Camping Centre
-Kakadu Wet Wonderland
+|Blackheath Taxis & Tourist Services|9|
-Fanoe & Camping - Gladesville & Kogarah Bay
+|Eastwood Camping Centre|10|
-Page
+|Kakadu - Wet Wonderland|12|
-The Editor 2
+|Canoe & Camping - Gladesville & Kogarah Bay|13|
-Morag Ryder 3
-Jim Brown
+===== While the billy boils =====
-'Clio'
-Barry Wallace
-David Rostron 14
-i6
-/6
-Page 2 The Sydney Bushwalker January 1990
-WHILE THE BILLY BOILS.
 Looking at some photos of 1960's walkers embarking on a 5 day trip, the size of their packs caught my attention. How ever did they fit 5 days food and other essentials into such tiny packs?
-Judging by the huge packs now carried by some of our members, it is obvious that we have allowed high pressure advertising to brainwash
-us intolamerican style' walking. We carry giant 'high tech' packs with
+Judging by the huge packs now carried by some of our members, it is obvious that we have allowed high pressure advertising to brainwash us into 'american style' walking. We carry giant 'high tech' packs with more padding, straps and fastenings than a space suit. Instead of a cape-groundsheet and a little fly, we must carry a tent which can withstand an arctic blizzard and rain-gear (now known as 'shells') suitable for the open tundra. Add to these some 'thermal' clothing, a multi-fuel stove and a dozen or so 'essential' little high tech gadgets. Having cranked this load onto your back, you will probably find that notwithstanding your 'ergonomically engineered' boots, (whatever __that__ means!) the best you can manage is a slow plod along a smooth, level pavement.
-more padding, straps and fastenings than a space suit. Instead of a cape-groundsheet and a little fly, we must carry a tent which can
-withstand an arctic blizzard and rain-gear (now known as 'shells')
-suitable for the open tundra. Add to these some 'thermal' clothing, a multi-fuel stove and a dozen or so 'essential' little high tech gadgets. Having cranked this load onto your back, you will probably find that nonwithstanding your 'ergonomically engineered' boots, (whatever that means!) the best you can manage is a slow plod along a smooth, level pavement.
 Somehow, I think those happy-go-lucky lads with their scant possessions
 had a lot more fun, and covered a lot more ground.
-Perhaps what we really need is something which cannot be bought in a trendy gear shop....
+Perhaps what we really need is something which cannot be bought in a trendy gear shop...
 A spirit of adventure.
-See you on the track....
-[ BUSHFIRE DANGER PERIUD1 - See November magazine Page 5
+See you on the track...
-BOOK REVIEW
-spic WITH THE WIND   Selected by Colin Gibson
+Morag
-Bushwalkers it seems, have always enjoyed writing poetry. Colin Gibson's
-little book of 100 bushwalker's poems covers a time span of 77 years
+BUSHFIRE DANGER PERIOD! - See November magazine - Page 5
-to 1979. S.B.W. members figure prominently, from Dorrie Lawry to
-Gordon Lee. One of my favourites, 'Bivouac' by Kath McKay was included,
+===== Book Review =====
-as was a tribute to Tarro, by Bernie Peach of C.M.W. There are even some quotes from the Chronic Operas. Not all of the poems could be classified as Deathless Verse, but many are very amusing, showing true bushwalker's humour. I particularly liked 'The Kowmung' and 'I Remember' by Ted Hartly:,- 'Holiday' by Barry Dwyer and 'Kedumba Creek' by Jim Barratt.
-Sources are given with each poem, and the pages are enlivened with delightful line drawings. My only criticism is that the index is in page
+Sing With The Wind ... Selected by Colin Gibson
-order, instead of in alpha order of titles. The latter method makes it
-much easier to find a desired poem, which is important, as books of poetry
+Bushwalkers it seems, have always enjoyed writing poetry. Colin Gibson's little book of 100 bushwalker's poems covers a time span of 77 years - 1902 to 1979. S.B.W. members figure prominently, from Dorrie Lawry to Gordon Lee. One of my favourites, 'Bivouac' by Kath McKay was included,
-are surely meant to be read many times. The book is light enough to slip trito your pack - reading aloud from it coad make an interesting thz,age from campfire singing.
+as was a tribute to Tarro, by Bernie Peach of C.M.W. There are even some quotes from the Chronic Operas. Not all of the poems could be classified as Deathless Verse, but many are very amusing, showing true bushwalker's humour. I particularly liked 'The Kowmung' and 'I Remember' by Ted Hartly. 'Holiday' by Barry Dwyer and 'Kedumba Creek' by Jim Barratt.
-The price is a modest $10-00. Copies can be obtained from Alex Colley when he comes into the clubroom, or by phoning the Colong Foundation
-on 247.4714.
+Sources are given with each poem, and the pages are enlivened with delightful line drawings. My only criticism is that the index is in page order, instead of in alpha order of titles. The latter method makes it much easier to find a desired poem, which is important, as books of poetry are surely meant to be read many times. The book is light enough to slip into your pack - reading aloud from it could make an interesting change from campfire singing.
-January 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 3
-MITTAGONG to KATOOMBA
+The price is a modest $10-00. Copies can be obtained from Alex Colley when he comes into the clubroom, or by phoning the Colong Foundation on 247.4714.
-aEatember 28- October 3 - Leader: IAN RANNARD
-By Morag Ryder PART ONE: Nattai to Butcher's Creek
+===== Mittagong to Katoomba =====
-Thursday 28th September
+September 28 - October 3 - Leader: Ian Rannard
+By Morag Ryder
+==== Part One: Nattai to Butcher's Creek ====
+=== Thursday 28th September ===
 It was bitter cold in Mittagong when the train arrived at 9.30 pm. We climbed into the back of a ute belonging to Ian's friend and nearly froze on the long bumpy journey down the Nattai fire trail. We bivvied on the ridge-top, and slept well despite the cold.
-Friday 29th
-Low misty cloud blanketed everything when we started walking at 7.30 am. The wattles were out in force, a golden presence that kept us company for the entire walk. By 10.30 the cloud lifted and we admired the sunlit face of Surveyors Crag, strolling along broad 4WD tracks on the lush green river flats. Unfortunately the Nattai was unfit to drink, murky and full of slimy green algae. A huge sign told us we were at the foot of Beloon Pass track
+=== Friday 29th  ===
-which started just opposite Colleys Flat, on the north side of Travis Gully. Not too steep,
-and very faint, the blue markers beckoned us ever upward. Ian collected water from a small
+Low misty cloud blanketed everything when we started walking at 7.30 am. The wattles were out in force, a golden presence that kept us company for the entire walk. By 10.30 the cloud lifted and we admired the sunlit face of Surveyors Crag, strolling along broad 4WD tracks on the lush green river flats. Unfortunately the Nattai was unfit to drink, murky and full of slimy green algae. A huge sign told us we were at the foot of Beloon Pass track which started just opposite Colleys Flat, on the north side of Travis Gully. Not too steep, and very faint, the blue markers beckoned us ever upward. Ian collected water from a small pool and we reached the top at noon. Magnificent views, despite the heat haze. Wollondilly River, Lacey's Tableland and Broken Rock Range were spread out before us.
-pool and we reached the top at noon. Magnificent views, despite the heat haze. Wollondilly River, Lacey's Tableland and Broken Rock Range were spread out before us.
-After lunch in the shade of a friendly casuarina, we scrambled down the short, steep escarpment, and along a gentle ridge to the Wollondilly. Parrots everywhere, and glory pea
+After lunch in the shade of a friendly casuarina, we scrambled down the short, steep escarpment, and along a gentle ridge to the Wollondilly. Parrots everywhere, and glory pea in flower. A small pure stand of yellow bloodwood, their pastel ochre trunks and huge green leaves vivid against the olive scrub. The Wollondilly was knee deep and clear, cooling our feet. Groups of kangaroos peered at us from the tall golden grass as we walked up, admiring Burragorang Walls and Bonnum Pic in the afternoon sun.
-in flower. A small pure stand of yellow bloodwood, their pastel ochre trunks and huge green
-leaves vivid against the olive scrub. The Wollondilly was knee deep and clear, cooling our
+Meadowlarks sang, an eagle soared - all was tranquility until we passed two 4WDs, which covered us in dust as they tore along with their loads of yelling people. Perhaps they were staying at the Jooriland Guest House. Afternoon tea break was on the Jooriland River, a green flat which tempted us to camp. Resolutely we marched on, shaded by thick casuarinas. Crossing the river, we encountered Hereford cows with very young calves. They fled, and we rambled on, stopping at 3.45 pm on a high bank overlooking the river. Large enough for a sub-division, our three little tents looked rather comical, perched in one corner. After washing off the day's sweat, I took drinking water from the side creek. This was so full of minerals that it foamed when boiled - good for making capuccino! By 6.30 pm it was cold enough for a jacket, and we watched the sparks from our fire fly up to a dazzle of stars.
-feet. Groups of kangaroos peered at us from the tall golden grass as we walked up, admiring Burragorang Walls and Bonnum Pic in the afternoon sun.
-Meadowlarks sang, an eagle soared - all was tranquility until we passed two 4WDs, which covered us in dust as they tore along with their loads of yelling people. Perhaps they were staying at the Jooriland Guest House. Afternoon tea break was on the Jooriland River, a green flat which tempted us to camp. Resolutely we marched on, shaded by thick casuarinas. Crossing the river, we encountered Hereford cows with very young calves. They fled, and we rambled on, stopping at 3.45 pm on a high bank overlooking the river. Large enough for a
+=== Saturday 30th ===
-sub-division, our three little tents looked rather comical, perched in one corner. After
-washing off the day's sweat, I took drinking water from the side creek. This was so full
-of minerals that it foamed when boiled - good for making capuccino! By 6.30 pm it was cold
-enough for a jacket, and we watched the sparks from our fire fly up to a dazzle of stars.
-Saturday 30th
 Low cloud again, blocking the last views of Bonnum Pic. A 7.30 am start up the gentle hills, following faint farm tracks, while groups of kangaroos and lumbering cows watched us from afar. When the cloud lifted at 9.30 we were sheltered by young trees with a thick understorey of brilliant gold wattle. A pair of eastern rosellas and a quarreling flock of fire-tail finches entertained us. We found the remains of an old out-house in the scrub, and had a snack stop there, which drew raucous comment from a gang of Gang-gangs.
 Morning tea was at Basin Creek, where it crosed the Yerranderie Road, a grassy flat with a huge wattle in full flower. Several 4WDs passed, unaware of us. The road was hedged
 with wattle, and Yerranderie was quite busy, cars and children everywhere. We stopped for lunch at Tonalli River, lighting a small fire in the river bed. Birds rushed about, shouting and arguing - it must have been the stress of raising their families. The vivid lilac of Native Indigo mingled with golden pea flower and wattle, where we lounged in the shade sipping our tea.
-The fire trail from Tonalli River to Byrnes Gap was undoubtedly the most tedious part
-of our walk, although we walked in shade most of the way. At the 4WD club bouse there were two front end loaders, busily working among the trees behind the building. Among the 4WDs was a truck loaded with riding horses and the verandah was crowded with people. Down the hill we went, to where Butchers Creek crossed the road, and at 3.30 pm began searching
+The fire trail from Tonalli River to Byrnes Gap was undoubtedly the most tedious part of our walk, although we walked in shade most of the way. At the 4WD club house there were two front end loaders, busily working among the trees behind the building. Among the 4WDs was a truck loaded with riding horses and the verandah was crowded with people. Down the hill we went, to where Butchers Creek crossed the road, and at 3.30 pm began searching for a campsite. Should we sleep among the little tea trees? Further searching revealed an open grassy area behind them. This would have been pure swamp in wet weather, but now was merely rather damp. In the creek were deep pools of good water and no leeches - incredible!
-Page 4
-The Sydney Bushwalker
-January 1990
-for a campsite. Should we sleep among the little tea trees? Further searching revealed an open grassy area behind them. This would have been pure swamp in wet weather, but now was merely rather damp. In the creek were deep pools of good water and no leeches - incredible!
 On one side of the camp were the cliffs of the Axehead, on the other the rock faces of Tonalli Mountain. A cool breeze fanned our fire and gums ringing the emerald turf shone snow white. Armies of rosellas began evening manoeuvers in the trees, commanded by several raucous kookaburras. The rocks turned gold in the setting sun, and we settled ourselves on a huge log provided by Ian, while a few bold rabbits mowed the lawn.
-TO BE CONTINUED
-***********
+To be continued...
-WHY WORLD HERITAGE? A book review.
-We tend to be rather blase about our east coast scenery. It has always been there,
+===== "Why World Heritage?" - A book review =====
-so we take it for granted. It might come as a surprise to learn that our BLue Mountains are absolutely unique in their combination of geology, flora and fauna. We are fortunate
-that some of it has been declared National Parks. So if an area is already a National Park,
+We tend to be rather blase about our east coast scenery. It has always been there, so we take it for granted. It might come as a surprise to learn that our Blue Mountains are absolutely unique in their combination of geology, flora and fauna. We are fortunate that some of it has been declared National Parks. So if an area is already a National Park, why have it listed as a World Heritage Area? One good reason is that National Parks are only protected by State Governments, but World Heritage Areas have Federal Government protection.
-why have it listed as a World Heritage Area? One good reason is that National Parks are only protected by State Governments, but World Heritage Areas have Federal Government protection.
-After years of labour, the Blue Mountains World Heritage Submission is finally complete. Or. Geoff Mtiosley has written a book on this, covering all the most important points. Part-
+After years of labour, the Blue Mountains World Heritage Submission is finally complete. Dr. Geoff Mosley has written a book on this, covering all the most important points. Particularly interesting to walkers are the chapters on natural scenery, vegetation and fauna. Lavishly illustrated with photos by Henry Gold, this book gives fresh insights into some of our favourite walking areas.
-icularly interesting to walkers are the chapters on natural scenery, vegetation and fauna. ,avishly illustrated with photos by Henry Gold, this book gives fresh insights into some of our favourite walking areas.
-I learned that Yerranderie was once the site of a FROPOSED WORLD volcano, 4 km in diameter. Bindook Highlands still contain !HERITAGE AREAS deposits of 'tufa', a stone formed from the volcanic ash. An aerial photo shows clearly that Thirlmere Lakes used to
+I learned that Yerranderie was once the site of a volcano, 4 km in diameter. Bindook Highlands still contain deposits of 'tufa', a stone formed from the volcanic ash. An aerial photo shows clearly that Thirlmere Lakes used to be part of a river. The land slowly rose, and the river lost its headwaters to the Nepean - now only the lakes remain.
-be part of a river. The land slowly rose, and the river
-tost its headwaters to the Nepean now only the lakes remain.
+Our east coast is one of the oldest areas of land in the world. Endrick River was old before the Himalayas were born. The coast was originally a massive, shallow basin. Multiple layers of soil and rock were washed into it from the then surrounding mountains. About 90 million years ago, this basin began to rise. Volcanic activity began and lava flows covered large areas with basalt. When streams finally cut through this hard capping, they eroded the softer sandstone beneath. In doing so, they created a most complex multi-layered biome.
-Our east coast is one of the oldest areas of land in the world Endrick River was old before the Himalayas were born. The coast was originally a massive, shallow basin.
-Multiple layers of soil and rock were washed into it from the then surrounding mountains. About 90 million years
+The plants reflect this complexity. When walking down one of those long ridges during springtime, I have often noticed how different flowers seem to be arranged in horizontal bands up the hill, like some rich layer cake. This is because different plants have adapted to live on the various types of soil, some only about 10 metres deep.
-ago, this basin began to rise. Volcanic activity began and
-Lava flows covered large areas with basalt. When streams finally cut through this hard capping, they eroded the
+The whole of our Blue Mountains area is a paradise for geologists, botanists, and zoologists - not to mention the humble bushwalker! If ever an area was worth preserving, this is. Dr. Mosley's little book is clearly and simply written, beautifully illustrated and extremely informative.
-softer sandstone beneath. In doing so, they created a
-most complex multi-layered biome.
-The plants reflect this complexity. When walking down one of those long ridges during springtime, I have often noticed how different flowers seem to be arranged in horizontal bands up the hill, like some rich layer
-cake. This is because different plants have adapted to live on the various types of soil,
-some only about 10 metres deep.
-The whole of our Blue Mountains area is a paradise for geologists, botanists, and
-zoologists - not to mention the humble bushwalkerl If ever an area was worth preserving,
-this is. Dr. Mosley's little book is clearly and simply written, beautifully illustrated
-and extremely informative.
 It might well be sub-titled 'Everything You Wanted To Know About The Blue Mountains, But Didn't Know Who To Ask'. Available from the Colong Foundation - phone 247 4714. At $15.00 post free, it's a bargain.
-THE EDITOR
-Katoombe
-Windsor Acc,
-!SIMNEL
+The Editor
-Camden
+===== ALL YOU NEED  TO KNOW ABOUT THE BIRD  TRACK =====
-Denman
-* * * * * * * * * *
-January 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 5
-ALL YOU NEED  TO KNOW ABOUT THE BIRD  TRACK
 by Jim Brown
 Yes, that's right - the Bird Track, not the Birdsville track.
@@ Line 186: / Line 167: @@
 metres apart. One mentions the "Burgh Track" and the other has it "Burg Track". Clearly
 NPWLS is not too sure of the spelling, but at least it's not for the Birds.
-* * * * * * * * * *
-"ENVIRONMENT '90"
+===== "ENVIRONMENT '90" =====
 WHO IS DOING NOVI 11) REPAIR THE ENVIRONMENT?
 Believe it or not, some 14 Government bodies and a growing number of private companiesi The International Conference and Exhibition will be held at Darling Harbour in May 1990.
@@ Line 198: / Line 179: @@
 combusted internally, or cleaned and cooled before being released to the atmosphere.
 If you want further details, ring FAYE CAMERON on 449.5279.
-January 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 7
-PORTRAIT OF A CLIMBER
+===== PORTRAIT OF A CLIMBER =====
 PART TWO: BY 'CLIO'
 'The Blue Mountaineers'
@@ Line 249: / Line 230: @@
 amused."
 Next month   THE SYDNEY ROCKCLIMBERS.
-* * * * * * * * * *
-NEW MEMBERS. Two new members were admitted to the Club at the December Committee Meeting. They are Peter Sternhell and Ed Franklin. Their addresses and telephone numbers will be included in the new List of Members to be sent to members during Fodruary.
+===== NEW MEMBERS =====
+Two new members were admitted to the Club at the December Committee Meeting. They are Peter Sternhell and Ed Franklin. Their addresses and telephone numbers will be included in the new List of Members to be sent to members during Fodruary.
 BLACKHEATH TAXIS & TOURIST SERVICES
 & le SEATER MINI BUS TAXI
@@ Line 294: / Line 277: @@
 January 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 11
-THE DECEMBER GENERAL  MEETING
+===== THE DECEMBER GENERAL  MEETING =====
 by Barry Wallace
 It was around 2018 when the President in the chair called the 20 or so members present to order and declared the meeting begun. There were apologies from Carol Bruce, John Porter and Jeff Niven and the call for new members brought Ed Franklin and one Paul Churcher from a
@@ Line 382: / Line 366: @@
  FOOTWEAR  MANY TYPES OF BUOYANCY & LIFE VESTS  HELMETS
 Page 14 The Sydney Bushwalker January 1990
-MOUNT CAMERON TO BELL by David Rostron
+===== Mount Cameron to Bell =====
+by David Rostron\\
 (First published in the magazine July 1982)
-A.study of maps is possibly the best way to become inspired about a new route (for us). This resulted in the programmed car swap trip for lst/2nd May, from Mount Cameron to 'Mount Tootie with Don Finch and I, leading the respective "legs". However, after learning of the
-experience of others on the 30 km ridge section, over the Maiden and Mount Mistake to the Colo (thick scrub, no views, 13 ridge junctions and one-mile-an-hour country) we decided to proceed as per program only if the area had been burnt in the 1979 fires.
+A study of maps is possibly the best way to become inspired about a new route (for us). This resulted in the programmed car swap trip for lst and 2nd May, from Mount Cameron to Mount Tootie with Don Finch and I leading the respectable "legs". However, after learning of the experience of others on the 30km ridge section, over the Maiden and Mt. Mistake to the Colo (thick scrub, no views, 13 ridge junctions and one-mile-an-hour country) we decided to proceed as per programme only if the area had been burnt in the 1979 fires. When subsequently travelling by plane to Dubbo on two occasions I determined that the area had not been burnt and it was obvious that the trip would be "hard work". I walk to enjoy myself and I believe this is also Don's philosophy. Not for us the foolish belief quoted by many: "The greater the suffering, the greater the trip". Don readily agreed to a change of route - from Mt. Cameron to Mt. Wilson - but later considered Mt. Cameron to Bell would be the ideal trip. He felt the crossings of the canyons and creeks would provide sufficient "sport".
-When subsequently travelling by plane to Dubbo on two ocnasions I determined that the area had not been burnt and it was obvious that the trip would be 'hard work'. I walk to
-enjoy myself and I believe this is also Don's philosophy. Not for us the foolish belief
+On the Wednesday night before the trip we had eight starters, but then Tony Marshall dropped out with a virus and Pat Harrison didn't appreciate the route change. So David Martin, Bob Hodgson, Don Finch, Spiro Hajinakitas, Barrie Murdoch and I, plus three vehicles, convened at Bell at 8.30 pm on Friday night. One vehicle was left at Bell, and we headed off along the maze of roads on the Newnes Plateau. After more than a few false leads (Don, of course, was navigating at this stage - allegedly on reliable information) we found the Mt. Cameron fire trail. After a few km we were stopped by a badly rutted hill.
-quoted by many: "The greater the suffering, the greater the trip". Don readily agreed to a
-change of route - from Mount Cameron to Mount Wilson - but later considered Mount Cameron to
+We had known it was not possible to drive past Natural Bridge, but this meant a further 2km on the 9km we had intended to walk that night. For me it was two hours of mental torment along a fire trail we did not know and with partial moon for only the first hour. I had the sensation of being on a treadmill - our surroundings didn't seem to change. After two hours we began the slight climb to the basalt cap of Mt. Cameron. With the change in vegetation there was a different aroma evident. There was the usual luxuriant grass on the cap which provided an ideal campsite.
-Bell would be the ideal trip. He felt the crossings of the canyons and creeks would provide
-sufficient "sport".
+The next morning we were up at 5.45 am and away by 7.05 am. We followed the fire trail over the cap until it turned east and we then headed south-west.
-On the Wednesday night before the trip we had eight starters, but then Tony Marshall dropped out with a virus and Pat Harrison didn't appreciate the route change. So David Martin,
-Bob Hodgson, Don Finch, Spiro Hajinakitas, Barrie Murdoch and I, plus three vehicles, convened
+The map indicated a perfect route down to Nayook Creek at 535117 and an easy ridge up the other side. When 400m away the route down and up looked ideal. However, when almost on the creek 15-20 metre cliffs on both sides were evident. We headed west for 300m but there were no apparent routes.	So it was back to the ridge top and along a SW ridge for a possible crossing opposite a creek at 524107. Again the map indicated the route as feasible.
-at Bell at 8.30 pm on Friday night. One vehicle was left at Bell, and we headed off along
-the maze of roads on the Newnes Plateau. After more than a few false leads (Don, of course,
+When dropping off the ridge we had to negotiate a rocky ramp and then a causeway 40m long and 2m wide at 524112. We were able to drop off the causeway but when above the creek there were still 15m cliffs. We eventually found a gully down at 523108 and then a route through the cliffs on the other side. However, the diversions had cost us 1.5 hours, so it was head down and tail up for the next 6km and 1.5 hours south across the plateau.
-was navigating at this stage - allegedly on reliable information) we found the Mount Cameron
-fire trail. After a few kilometres we were stopped by a badly rutted hill.
+We carried water for lunch and this was enjoyed at 507076 with extensive views to the south. Mt. Wilson was visible, many km to the SE. Lunch was a brief affair of 35 minutes and then it was west for 1 km across the ridge top before heading south again towards Derailment Hill and, we hoped, a route to North Bungleboori Creek.
-We had known it was not possible to drive past Natural Bridge, but this meant a further
-km on the 9 km we had intended to walk that night. For me it was two hours of mental torment
+After passing over Derailment Hill the route ahead had the appearance of a bushwalkers' minefield - cliffs, gendarmes, etc. We decided to descend to the creek to the west and follow it south to Bungleboori Creek. However, it was about an hour later that we finally reached the first creek after negotiating gulleys, chimneys and faces as well as exploring about four other possible routes.
-along a fire trail we did not know and with partial moon for only the first hour. I had the
-sensation of being on a treadmill - our surroundings didn't seem to change. After two hours
+The floor of the valley was slow going with heavy growth, but eventually we crossed Bungleboori at 493045 and then had afternoon tea. We decided to carry water just in case we didn't make South Bungleboori Creek before nightfall. We headed south up the ridge to reach a fire trail at 491035. David Martin had been troubled by a knee problem and decided to retire at this point - to try to find his car via the fire trail maze.
-we began the slight climb to the basalt cap of Mount Cameron. With the change in vegetation
-there was a different aroma evident. There was the usual luxuriant grass an the cap which
+Five of us then followed fire trails for 3 km - first SW and then SE and turned off south at 492018. Bob had walked along this part of the route before and was confident about finding a pass down to South Bungleboori Creek. We traversed a ridge to a cliff top about 100m above the creek at 496004 and then tried a number of gullies before finally reaching the creek just on dusk.
-provided an ideal campsite.
-The next morning we were up at 5.45 am and away by 7.05 am. We followed the fire trail over the cap until it turned east and we then headed south-west. The map indicated a perfect route down to Nayook Creek at 535117 and an easy ridge up the other side. When 405 metres away the route down and up looked ideal. However, when almost on the creek 15-20 metre cliffs on both sides were evident. We headed west for 300 metres but there were no apparent routes. So it was back to the ridge top and along a south-west ridge for a possible crossing opposite
+First impressions of the creek were that there would be no 5-star campsite that night. Bob was optimistic about a possible site 200m downstream, but to reach it took another 10 minutes. Well - it was about half-star rating. We had to clear sites for adjoining flies and then the fire on sand amongst fallen trees. The location was typical of the creeks in this area - 40m cliffs on both sides.
-a creek at 524107. Again the map indicated the route was feasible.
-When dropping off the ridge we had to negotiate a rocky ramp and then a causeway 40 metres long and 2 metres wide at 524112. We were able to drop off the moseway but when above the
+Next morning saw a later start at 7.30 am and then it was up ledges and cracks at 497003 with some rope work to emerge on top of the Western Arthurs (named by Bob on a previous trip). These are rocky tors extending over 2 km and provided some interesting scrambling and route-finding with good views. We headed west over these tops for about lkm and then it was south again over a high valley to the next ridge top. We crossed this and followed a ridge south - more scrambling - and then it was down a pass at 490985 which Bob had used before. We followed the creek south to North Dumbano Creek, which we crossed at 493978. It was then time for morning tea. Dumbano Creek at this point has only small cliff lines - 5m to 10m with numerous breaks.
-creek there were still 15 metre cliffs. We eventually found a gully down at 523108 and then
-a route through the cliffs on the other side. However, the diversions had cost us l hours,
+We had contemplated visiting Wollangambe Crater but the ridge from Wollangambe River to Bell - about 7 km - was still an unknown quantity. We decided to continue by the easiest route to the river. We crossed the marshy area of South Dumbano Creek at 498966 and then followed a ridge SW to the Schay Ridge Fire Trail. A gallop along the trail for 4 km to the end was followed by open ridge walking and then a drop of about 100m to the Wollangambe. This was reached by a series of ledges and gullies at 505928.
-so it was head down and tail up for the next 6 km and 11 hours south across the plateau.
-We carried water for lunch and this was enjoyed at 507076 with extensive views to the south. Mount Wilson was visible, many kilometres to the south-east. Lunch was a brief
+The lunch that followed was the most relaxed meal of the trip. We had the luxury of a fire in cool sunshine. The route up the other side looked reasonable and, from what we could see of the ridge to the Bell Road, our hopes for a easy final 10 km were rising.
-affair of 35 minutes and then it waa west for lkm across the ridge top before heading south again towards Derailment Hill and, we hoped, a route to North Bungledoori Creek.
-After paating over Derailment Hill the route ahead had the appearance of a bushwalkerst minefield - cliffs, gendarmes, etc. We decided to descend to the creek to the west and
+The ridge proved to be delightful. It comprised rocky tors and large areas of heath-type vegetation - the formula for expansive views and relaxed walking. The view from a height of 994 m was probably the best of the trip. Later, among the low eucalypts, the waratahs were prolific.
-follow it south to Bungleboori Creek. However it was about an hour later that we finally reached the first creek after negotiating gullys, chimneys and faces as well as exploring about four other possible routes.
-The floor of the valley was slow going with heavy growth, but eventually we crossed Bungleboori at 493045 and then had afternoon tea. We decided to carry water just in case ww didn't make South Bungleboori Creek before nightfall. We headed south up the ridgd to reach a firetrail at 491035. David Martin had been troubled by a knee problem and decided to
+As we neared the road Don pushed to the front and began a none-too subtle increase of pace. From a flowing, relaxed pace there developed an urgent panting stride. Spiro was heard to remark "Anyone would think it's Carlon's horses heading for home".
-retire at this point - to try to find his car via the fire trail maze.
-January 1990 The Sydney Bushwalker Page 15
+Then we were on the road on the north side of the rail line with 3 km to Bell. Foolishly we let Don set the pace. Whereas normal fit walkers are capable of 5,000 rpm Don appears to have 6,000 rpm available. With my longer legs I was just able to match his walking speed, but Spiro and Bob were periodically jogging whilst Barrie jogged all the way to keep up.
-Five of us then followed fire trails for 3 km - first south-west and then south-east and turned off south at 492018. Bob had walked along this part of the route before and was confident about finding a pass down to South Bungleboori Creek. We traversed a ridge to a cliff top about 100 metres above the creek at 496004 and then tried a number of gullies before finally reaching the creek just on dusk.
-First impressions of the creek were;fthat there would be no 5-star campsite that night. Bob was optimistic about a possible site 200 metres downstream, but to reach it took another 10 minutes. Well - it was about 4-star rating. We had to clear sites for adjoining flies
+I think we all hoped to put on a final spurt for the last 150m up a hill to Bell, and overtake Don, but he started running before we did and all we could do was chew his dust. It was 4.15 pm and the end of a great exploratory trip.
-and then the fire on sand amongst fallen trees. The location was typical of the creeks in this area - 40 metre cliffs on both sides.
-Next morning saw a later start at 7.30 am and then it was up ledges and cracks at 497003 with some rope work to emerge on top of the Western Arthurs (named by Bob on a previous trip). These are rocky tors extending over 2 km and provided some interesting scrambling and route- finding with good views.
+I should add that the area around Mt Cameron was not burnt in the 1979 fires. These fires apparently extended to Nayook Creek, about 3 km south of Mt Cameron. There has been considerable regrowth since but the walking through most of the area is straightforward - there is no dense scrub to push through. Views are mainly restricted by low eucalypts which have recovered to an amazing degree. Throughout the area the waratahs, compared to most parts of the mountains, are prolific. An early spring walk would be a delight.
-We headed west over these tops for about 1 km and then it was south again over a high valley to the next ridge top. We crossed this and followed
-a ridge south - more scrambling - and then it was down a pass at 490985, which Bob had used before. We followed the creek south to North Dumbano Creek,
-which we crossed at 493978. It was then time for morning tea. Dumbano Creek at this point
-has only small cliff Lines - 5 m to 10 m with numerous breaks.
-We had contemplated visiting Wollongambe Crater but the ridge from Wollongambe Rive' to
-Bell - about 7 km - was still an unknown quantity. We decided to continue by the easiest route
-to the river. We crossed the marshy area of South Dumbano Creek at 498966 and then followed
-a ridge south-west to the Shay Ridge Fire Trail. A gallop along the trail for 4 km to the end
-was followed by open ridge walking and then a drop of about 100 m to the Wollongambe. This was
-reached by a series of ledges and gullies at 505928.
-The lunch that followed was the most relaxed meal of the trip. We had the luxury of a
-fire in cool sunshine. The route up the other side looked reasonable and, from what we could
-see of the ridge to the Bell Road, our hopes for an easy final 10 km were rising.
-The ridge proved to be delightful. It comprised rocky tors and large areas of heath-type
-vegetation - the formula for expansive views and relaxed walking. The view from a height of
- metres was probably the best of the trip. Later, among the low eucalypts, the waratahs
-were prolific.
-As we neared the road Don pushed to the front and began a none-too-subtle increase of pace. From a flowing, relaxed pace there developed an urgentipanting stride. Spiro was heard to remark "Anyone would think it's Canon's horses heading for home".
-Then we were on the road on the north side of the rail line with 3 km to Bell. Foolishly
-we let Don set the pace. Whereas normal fit walkers are capable of 5,000 rpm Don appears to
-have 6,000 rpm available. With my longer legs I was just able to match his walking speed, but
-Spiro and Bob were periodically jogging whilst Barrie jogged all the way to keep up.
-I think we all hoped to put on a final spurt for the last 150 metres up a hill to Bell, and overtake Don, but he started running before we did and all we could do was chew his dust! It was 4.15 pm and the end of a great exploratory trip.
-I should add that the area around Mount Cameron was not burnt in the 1979 fires. These
-fires apparently extended to Nayook Creek, about 3 km south of Mount Cameron. There has been
-considerable regrowth since but the walking through most of the area is straightforward - there is no dense scrub to push through. Views are mainly restricted by low eucalypts which have
-recovered to an amazing degree. Throughout the area the waratahs, compared to most parts of
-the mountains, are prolific. An early spring walk would be a delight.
 * * * * * * * * *
 Page 16 the Sydney Bushwalker January 1990