199911
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| That night we camped on the river bank 4 miles downstream from the Glen Alice Crossing. Naturally, we felt very tired, having that day walked 27 miles along a hard, rocky road. We carried only 401b. packs, but had no sleep at all on the previous night. Next morning found us walking down through a valley that reminded us of the Burragorang, | That night we camped on the river bank 4 miles downstream from the Glen Alice Crossing. Naturally, we felt very tired, having that day walked 27 miles along a hard, rocky road. We carried only 401b. packs, but had no sleep at all on the previous night. Next morning found us walking down through a valley that reminded us of the Burragorang, | ||
| - | The Running Stream gorge is an enormously deep and narrow canyon, and but for its presence there could be a more practicable route from the Capertee Valley to Gospers Mountain. (Running Stream is Coorongooba Creek flowing from north to south). [Running Stream Creek actually does give an easier route to Gospers Mountain Ed) | + | The Running Stream gorge is an enormously deep and narrow canyon, and but for its presence there could be a more practicable route from the Capertee Valley to Gospers Mountain. (Running Stream is Coorongooba Creek flowing from north to south. Running Stream Creek actually does give an easier route to Gospers Mountain. Ed) |
| - | The Capertee River Was followed downstream for a further five miles, where the bridle track was found to pass through a cleared flat. There was an old, tumble-down hut, and as Mr Masters had said, there was a break in the sandstone walls on the northern side of the valley. There was a steep basalt hill leading up to it and it was decided upon as our way of access to the higher tableland beyond, i e. to Uraterer. Mr Masters knew the basalt ridge by the name of Grassy Hill, and it is appropriate to its base. However, when ascending the hill next morning, we found the upper section to be a rocky knife-edge ridge and it provided a similarly thrilling experience as the last lap of the ascent to the Cloudmaker (Gongerang Peaks) from the Kanangra side. The tableland beyond was reached later by way of sandstone crevasses, and farther on we found ourselves on a range which reminded us of distant Wanganderry. | + | The Capertee River Was followed downstream for a further five miles, where the bridle track was found to pass through a cleared flat. There was an old, tumble-down hut, and as Mr Masters had said, there was a break in the sandstone walls on the northern side of the valley. There was a steep basalt hill leading up to it and it was decided upon as our way of access to the higher tableland beyond, i.e. to Uraterer. Mr Masters knew the basalt ridge by the name of Grassy Hill, and it is appropriate to its base. However, when ascending the hill next morning, we found the upper section to be a rocky knife-edge ridge and it provided a similarly thrilling experience as the last lap of the ascent to the Cloudmaker (Gongerang Peaks) from the Kanangra side. The tableland beyond was reached later by way of sandstone crevasses, and farther on we found ourselves on a range which reminded us of distant Wanganderry. |
| The country traversed here was puzzling in its make-up and hideous in its aspect, Nothing could be seen of the Capertee Gorge behind us. It was a perpendicular split in the earth' | The country traversed here was puzzling in its make-up and hideous in its aspect, Nothing could be seen of the Capertee Gorge behind us. It was a perpendicular split in the earth' | ||
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| Shortly we came to a slight rise in the range, a point from where we could look across over vale and hill to a treeless dome. Obviously it was Uraterer. Often after long and painful effort we reach a similar vantage point and always the will-of the-wisp seemed as far away as ever. | Shortly we came to a slight rise in the range, a point from where we could look across over vale and hill to a treeless dome. Obviously it was Uraterer. Often after long and painful effort we reach a similar vantage point and always the will-of the-wisp seemed as far away as ever. | ||
| - | Late that afternoon I found myself sitting down in a semi-exhausted condition. I was gazing upon a segment of the most expansive cyclorama of my life, and like a dream I realised that I was on the crest of Uraterer and that Gordon Smith was beside me. In the foreground there was seen a maze of wooded gullies and cliffs and crags. It was a scene of great wildness rather than of beauty; it would make a master- bushman shudder. Practically nothing could be seen of the Colo, Capertee and Running Stream Canyon, these being perpendicular slits in the earth' | + | Late that afternoon I found myself sitting down in a semi-exhausted condition. I was gazing upon a segment of the most expansive cyclorama of my life, and like a dream I realised that I was on the crest of Uraterer and that Gordon Smith was beside me. In the foreground there was seen a maze of wooded gullies and cliffs and crags. It was a scene of great wildness rather than of beauty; it would make a master- bushman shudder. Practically nothing could be seen of the Colo, Capertee and Running Stream Canyon, these being perpendicular slits in the earth' |
| - | Nightfall found us with our tent pitched under the clump of quince trees, and within 20 yards of an excellent permanent spring. About 60 years ago two brothers by the name of Gosper selected at this outpost; and from information received I believe there is bridle track from Gospers Mountain (Uraterer) coming down the Wirraba Range and joining the Richmond track about 10 miles from Putty. This may be my next way of getting to Gospers. The soil there is similar to Dillon' | + | Nightfall found us with our tent pitched under the clump of quince trees and within 20 yards of an excellent permanent spring. About 60 years ago two brothers by the name of Gosper selected at this outpost, and from information received I believe there is bridle track from Gospers Mountain (Uraterer) coming down the Wirraba Range and joining the Richmond track about 10 miles from Putty. This may be my next way of getting to Gospers. The soil there is similar to Dillon' |
| Next morning we left with regret this throne of the everlasting hills to take on the big proposition of finding a way back to the Capertee Valley. On the way back we made three mistakes of note, and it was only because of the fact that I made very accurate calculations on the way that saved us from otherwise inevitable disaster. Shortly before dusk we reached the Capertee, River end next morning faced another big proposition, | Next morning we left with regret this throne of the everlasting hills to take on the big proposition of finding a way back to the Capertee Valley. On the way back we made three mistakes of note, and it was only because of the fact that I made very accurate calculations on the way that saved us from otherwise inevitable disaster. Shortly before dusk we reached the Capertee, River end next morning faced another big proposition, | ||
| - | The bridle track continued on down the river and saved us much time. The sandstone bluffs that hemmed in the valley presented a very striking appearance and in my opinion the gorge scenery puts the Nattai and Burragorang Valleys in the shade. A few wallabies were seen and Wonga pigeons and wild duck were in great numbers. About 3 miles before the Wolgan River Junction the track died out and we plunged into the roughest river walking that I had up to this time experienced. The steep sided banks were strewn with boulders and overgrown with blackberry, lawyer vines, lantana and nettles. It came so suddenly that it took the stomach out of me, and after doing 1 miles in 4 hours I suggested giving up. However, my more determined mate knew only one word " | + | The bridle track continued on down the river and saved us much time. The sandstone bluffs that hemmed in the valley presented a very striking appearance and in my opinion the gorge scenery puts the Nattai and Burragorang Valleys in the shade. A few wallabies were seen and Wonga pigeons and wild duck were in great numbers. About 3 miles before the Wolgan River Junction the track died out and we plunged into the roughest river walking that I had up to this time experienced. The steep sided banks were strewn with boulders and overgrown with blackberry, lawyer vines, lantana and nettles. It came so suddenly that it took the stomach out of me, and after doing 1 mile in 4 hours I suggested giving up. However, my more determined mate knew only one word : " |
| Next morning, after 11 miles of similar work, we reached the point where the inflow of the Wolgan joins the Capertee and so forms the Colo. We could look up the Wolgan a short way and it appeared hellish rough. | Next morning, after 11 miles of similar work, we reached the point where the inflow of the Wolgan joins the Capertee and so forms the Colo. We could look up the Wolgan a short way and it appeared hellish rough. | ||
| - | Would you like to feel this way? It's easy just loin one of our tropical treks. | + | Would you like to feel this way? It's easy just join one of our tropical treks. |
| No phones, no cars, no hassle. Every day brings perfect weather. Every hour brings another beautiful pool. You relax because you are enjoying the moment too much to wont to move on. | No phones, no cars, no hassle. Every day brings perfect weather. Every hour brings another beautiful pool. You relax because you are enjoying the moment too much to wont to move on. | ||
| Willis' | Willis' | ||
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| - | From this point the Colo flowed between huge boulders for about a mile after which there was a long stretch of sandbank - a pleasant relief. Another mile, however, and rock-hopping was the order of things. Scrambling over boulders and bashing our way through lawyer vines and other creepers, alternated with short stretches of sandbank Frequent waist-deep wadings were necessary, as was also the case down the whole length of the Colo, and treacherous | + | From this point the Colo flowed between huge boulders for about a mile after which there was a long stretch of sandbank - a pleasant relief. Another mile, however, and rock-hopping was the order of things. Scrambling over boulders and bashing our way through lawyer vines and other creepers, alternated with short stretches of sandbank. Frequent waist-deep wadings were necessary, as was also the case down the whole length of the Colo, and treacherous |
| Next morning we pushed onward again and much to our dismay the sand-banks disappeared. We found that clambering over boulders was good for all- round muscular development. The rocks were purely of | Next morning we pushed onward again and much to our dismay the sand-banks disappeared. We found that clambering over boulders was good for all- round muscular development. The rocks were purely of | ||
| - | sandstone and in places had a topping of ironstone. The Colo River was in the form of long, smooth pools alternating with rapids, | + | sandstone and in places had a topping of ironstone. The Colo River was in the form of long, smooth pools alternating with rapids, |
| - | missed on the trip. There were wild duck in droves, and never being disturbed they would provide excellent shooting at close range. Towards sundown out spirits were brightened by the reappearance of sandbars and that night we camped on a fine stretch of sand, beside a deep pool. We had covered 8 miles for the day. | + | missed on the trip. There were wild duck in droves, and never being disturbed they would provide excellent shooting at close range. |
| + | |||
| + | Towards sundown out spirits were brightened by the reappearance of sandbars and that night we camped on a fine stretch of sand, beside a deep pool. We had covered 8 miles for the day. | ||
| On the following day we found that 4 miles was our limit. The going was frightfully rough and consisted of hauling one another over boulders and through crevasses. In places a rocky buttress would rise, sheer out of the water, and sometimes the water was shallow enough to permit a passage around. In other cases it was doubtful if the depth could be measured in hundreds of feet. The Colo in this section is a magnificent canoeing stream and should satisfy the most exacting. Towering walls of sandstone rise almost from the water' | On the following day we found that 4 miles was our limit. The going was frightfully rough and consisted of hauling one another over boulders and through crevasses. In places a rocky buttress would rise, sheer out of the water, and sometimes the water was shallow enough to permit a passage around. In other cases it was doubtful if the depth could be measured in hundreds of feet. The Colo in this section is a magnificent canoeing stream and should satisfy the most exacting. Towering walls of sandstone rise almost from the water' | ||
| The Colo pools teem with perch and eels and will long by remembered by the writer as the best fishing place he has ever knoWn. At the close of the third day from the Wollemi Creek Junction we reached the Wollangambe. There was a large pool we afterwards named the Wollangambe Basin. On its north side a cliff face arose out of the water for 1,000 feet sheer. This added-greatly to the rugged beauty of the place, and take the writer' | The Colo pools teem with perch and eels and will long by remembered by the writer as the best fishing place he has ever knoWn. At the close of the third day from the Wollemi Creek Junction we reached the Wollangambe. There was a large pool we afterwards named the Wollangambe Basin. On its north side a cliff face arose out of the water for 1,000 feet sheer. This added-greatly to the rugged beauty of the place, and take the writer' | ||
| - | From information gathered previously we learned that many years ago a Government Surveyor constructed a track down the Colo River from the Wollangambe Junction to the Blacksmith' | + | From information gathered previously we learned that many years ago a Government Surveyor constructed a track down the Colo River from the Wollangambe Junction to the Blacksmith' |
| - | The country was precipitous, | + | The country was precipitous, |
| - | Next morning we breakfasted at the Wheeny Creek crossing and reached Kurrajong by | + | Next morning we breakfasted at the Wheeny Creek crossing and reached Kurrajong by mid-day. We had completed our trip down the Colo River. We would say it was noteworthy for its two main features, viz: magnificent scenery and the roughness of the walking. It occupied 11 days. |
| + | (The Smith-Gentle Colo River venture holds the distinction of being the fastest known traverse of the Colo, notwithstanding the fact that 2 days were occupied on the Gospers Mountain (Uraterer) side trip. Their' | ||
| Walk through Connemara, The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, | Walk through Connemara, The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, | ||
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| - | mid-day. We had completed our trip down the Colo River. We would say it was noteworthy for its two main features, viz: magnificent scenery and the roughness of the walking. It occupied 11 days. | ||
| - | (The Smith-Gentle Colo River venture holds the distinction of being the fastest known traverse of the Colo, notwithstanding the fact that 2 days were occupied on the Gospers Mountain (Uraterer) side trip. Their' | ||
| SOCIAL NOTES | SOCIAL NOTES | ||
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| We are replying to Henry Gold's article in the September 1999 Sydney Bushwalker. | We are replying to Henry Gold's article in the September 1999 Sydney Bushwalker. | ||
| The Coolana Report, distributed with the September issue of the magazine illustrates the main point which we have been trying to make; we recommend that Henry read it. | The Coolana Report, distributed with the September issue of the magazine illustrates the main point which we have been trying to make; we recommend that Henry read it. | ||
| + | |||
| The finding of the Coolana Special Sub- Committee (the CSSC) report that the restrictions applying to access to national parks and wilderness areas "will become an increasing burden on walking clubs and other organisations" | The finding of the Coolana Special Sub- Committee (the CSSC) report that the restrictions applying to access to national parks and wilderness areas "will become an increasing burden on walking clubs and other organisations" | ||
| In fact this has already occurred without walkers recognising what has happened. Walking club committees have simply pushed a particular agenda which, in many ways, is against the interests of their own members. Question; have denial of access and restrictions on activities on public lands been factors in the current high prospective drop out rate and the ageing memberships of most walking clubs? | In fact this has already occurred without walkers recognising what has happened. Walking club committees have simply pushed a particular agenda which, in many ways, is against the interests of their own members. Question; have denial of access and restrictions on activities on public lands been factors in the current high prospective drop out rate and the ageing memberships of most walking clubs? | ||
| + | |||
| We think that the answer is an emphatic yes; how often these days do we hear the refrain "Trips are not nearly as much fun without a campfire" | We think that the answer is an emphatic yes; how often these days do we hear the refrain "Trips are not nearly as much fun without a campfire" | ||
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| It is interesting to note that at theNPWS' | It is interesting to note that at theNPWS' | ||
| + | |||
| Which brings us to the broader issue of the environment. Over the last 40 to 50 years the conservation movement has done a brilliant job of increasing the level of environmental awareness in the community. This is something which had to happen. however it seems to us that the movement has taken an increasingly extremist approach, which is also getting the community offside. Forty year ago, you could not persuade company managements that they needed to be more environmentally aware. Now you cannot persuade the more extreme members of the conservation movement- that they should tame down their level of rhetoric and the committing of untruths. Failure by the conservation movement to take a more reasoned approach will inevitably lead to a backlash and it will be, we believe, the environment the-suffers. | Which brings us to the broader issue of the environment. Over the last 40 to 50 years the conservation movement has done a brilliant job of increasing the level of environmental awareness in the community. This is something which had to happen. however it seems to us that the movement has taken an increasingly extremist approach, which is also getting the community offside. Forty year ago, you could not persuade company managements that they needed to be more environmentally aware. Now you cannot persuade the more extreme members of the conservation movement- that they should tame down their level of rhetoric and the committing of untruths. Failure by the conservation movement to take a more reasoned approach will inevitably lead to a backlash and it will be, we believe, the environment the-suffers. | ||
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| SBW YOUNGER MEMBERS GROUP | SBW YOUNGER MEMBERS GROUP | ||
| by Eddy Giacomel | by Eddy Giacomel | ||
| + | |||
| For some years there has been discussion in the club about catering for younger members and attracting the next generation of bushwalkers. Unlike today, a few decades ago the club had many members in their twenties and in their teens. There are many cries about the increase in the average age of bushwalkers in what appears to be all bushwalking clubs. Reasons given range from changes in society and lifestyle, to competition from other activities. Some may argue that there is no problem, perhaps the pendulum will swing the other way and perhaps the best way to address the issue is to let it address itself. Alternatively, | For some years there has been discussion in the club about catering for younger members and attracting the next generation of bushwalkers. Unlike today, a few decades ago the club had many members in their twenties and in their teens. There are many cries about the increase in the average age of bushwalkers in what appears to be all bushwalking clubs. Reasons given range from changes in society and lifestyle, to competition from other activities. Some may argue that there is no problem, perhaps the pendulum will swing the other way and perhaps the best way to address the issue is to let it address itself. Alternatively, | ||
| + | |||
| The committee has resolved to form a younger members group with the aim of encouraging younger people to join and to continue in the club. It will be an informal association of the young and those that want to be young. While there is no strict cut off age limit, this group is aimed at those in their 30s and younger. It is not intended to be an exclusive group, merely a method of enabling younger members to meet other younger members. The initial response has been encouraging. However, for this group to succeed it will require younger members to make an effort to participate and the "not younger members" | The committee has resolved to form a younger members group with the aim of encouraging younger people to join and to continue in the club. It will be an informal association of the young and those that want to be young. While there is no strict cut off age limit, this group is aimed at those in their 30s and younger. It is not intended to be an exclusive group, merely a method of enabling younger members to meet other younger members. The initial response has been encouraging. However, for this group to succeed it will require younger members to make an effort to participate and the "not younger members" | ||
| + | |||
| This group is not the only special interest group in the club. We also have the "Mid Week Walkers" | This group is not the only special interest group in the club. We also have the "Mid Week Walkers" | ||
| Further details about the Younger Members Group can be found on 'The Back Page' of the Summer Walks Program. | Further details about the Younger Members Group can be found on 'The Back Page' of the Summer Walks Program. | ||
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| by Bill Holland | by Bill Holland | ||
| This group is mainly retired, semi-retired, | This group is mainly retired, semi-retired, | ||
| + | |||
| HOUSE BOAT ON MYALL LAKES | HOUSE BOAT ON MYALL LAKES | ||
| Monday March 6th - Friday March 11th | Monday March 6th - Friday March 11th | ||
| Five days of cruising in large houseboat cruiser. A combination of cruising, walking, swimming, and rest. Boat hire cost is $180 per person for the five days. There is a limit of eight people. Please send in $60 share of deposit with your booking. | Five days of cruising in large houseboat cruiser. A combination of cruising, walking, swimming, and rest. Boat hire cost is $180 per person for the five days. There is a limit of eight people. Please send in $60 share of deposit with your booking. | ||
| Note: We can make arrangements to share transport from Sydney | Note: We can make arrangements to share transport from Sydney | ||
| - | MOLE STATION HOLIDAY | + | MOLE STATION HOLIDAY COTTAGE |
| - | COTTAGE | + | |
| Monday April 10th - Friday April 14th | Monday April 10th - Friday April 14th | ||
| WALKING IN NATIONAL PARKS | WALKING IN NATIONAL PARKS | ||
| - | We have booked a holiday cottage "Mole Station" | + | We have booked a holiday cottage "Mole Station" |
| - | National Parks. Walking is planned for each day followed by relaxed evenings. Transport arrangements can be made to reduce costs. | + | |
| They have a cottage sleeping eight people and it costs about $35 per head for the five days. Please send in $25 share of deposit with your booking. Everything is supplied except food and we will organise a food group to assist with this. It is a fair way to drive but we will share cars and can break the trip with other activities. | They have a cottage sleeping eight people and it costs about $35 per head for the five days. Please send in $25 share of deposit with your booking. Everything is supplied except food and we will organise a food group to assist with this. It is a fair way to drive but we will share cars and can break the trip with other activities. | ||
| - | Please feel welcome to join us. Advise your bookings for the 'Above two trips by phoning Bill Holland on 9484 6636 or for the technicaly minded: Email to billholl@hortkey net au. | + | Please feel welcome to join us. Advise your bookings for the 'Above two trips by phoning Bill Holland on 9484 6636 or for the technicaly minded: Email to billholl@hortkey net au. Numbers are limited so early booking is advisable. |
| - | Numbers are limited so early booking is advisable. | + | |
| This group is open to all. We would like to have you join us at any time and would welcome your. suggestions. We have a regular newsletter, covering past and planned events. If you wish to receive this please let me know. | This group is open to all. We would like to have you join us at any time and would welcome your. suggestions. We have a regular newsletter, covering past and planned events. If you wish to receive this please let me know. | ||
| + | |||
| Some future possible events are: | Some future possible events are: | ||
| - | Cabins near Jenolan Caves, Cabins near Durras Lakes South Coast, Walking along Bi-Centennial Trails etc Hinchinbrook Island. | + | Cabins near Jenolan Caves, Cabins near Durras Lakes South Coast, Walking along Bi-Centennial Trails etc Hinchinbrook Island. It need not always be easy walking and cabin camping. Some of us are still keen to do some strenuous walking and a four or five day mid-walk may be organised soon. |
| - | It need not always be easy walking and cabin camping. Some of us are still keen to do some strenuous walking and a four or five day mid-walk may be organised soon. | + | |
| + | |||
| + | ILLEGAL PIG SHOOTERS IN THE ICNP | ||
| + | |||
| + | A request for information of any sightings. Illegal pig shooters have been observed in the KNP. As well as presenting a hazard to walkers and campers, some shooters are reported to be using dogs obtained from animal pounds, which sometimes take up residence in the, park and create problems for Park wildlife and to the stock on adjacent grazing properties. | ||
| - | ILLEGAL PIG SHOOTERS IN THE ICNP A request for information of any sightings. Illegal pig shooters have been observed in the KNP. | ||
| - | As well as presenting a hazard to walkers and campers, some shooters are reported to be using dogs obtained from animal pounds, which sometimes take up residence in the, park and create problems for Park wildlife and to the stock on adjacent grazing properties. | ||
| The NP&WLS have a program of pig trapping and also spotlighting pigs from helicopters, | The NP&WLS have a program of pig trapping and also spotlighting pigs from helicopters, | ||
| They do not license private pig shooters. Please report any sightings of shooters, including their vehicle registration numbers, to the NP&WLS at Jindabyne on: (02) 6450 5500 | They do not license private pig shooters. Please report any sightings of shooters, including their vehicle registration numbers, to the NP&WLS at Jindabyne on: (02) 6450 5500 | ||
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| DONATIONS TO THE COOLANA FUND | DONATIONS TO THE COOLANA FUND | ||
| - | The response to the recent published report of the special Coolana committee has been most favorable and it is obvious that the majority of club members wish to retain Coolana. | + | The response to the recent published report of the special Coolana committee has been most favorable and it is obvious that the majority of club members wish to retain Coolana. The Coolana maintenance group would like to point out that the maintenance fund is still open and any member can contribute money to that fund in any amount at any time. Donations can be sent to the club secretary. |
| - | The Coolana maintenance group would like to point out that the maintenance fund is still open and any member can contribute money to that fund in any amount at any time. | + | |
| - | Donations can be sent to the club secretary. | + | |
| PERSONAL ADVERTISEMENTS WELCOME | PERSONAL ADVERTISEMENTS WELCOME | ||
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| Several club members have acquired GPS receivers to assist in navigation in remote areas and others are wondering whether they should do so also. | Several club members have acquired GPS receivers to assist in navigation in remote areas and others are wondering whether they should do so also. | ||
| + | |||
| What is GPS? Would a GPS receiver help me to navigate in the bush? How hard is it to use a GPS receiver? How accurate is it? How reliable are its readings? Which GPS receiver should I buy? These questions are possibly running through the minds of those people. This article is an attempt to remove some of the mystery and to possibly help people to make a more informed choice. | What is GPS? Would a GPS receiver help me to navigate in the bush? How hard is it to use a GPS receiver? How accurate is it? How reliable are its readings? Which GPS receiver should I buy? These questions are possibly running through the minds of those people. This article is an attempt to remove some of the mystery and to possibly help people to make a more informed choice. | ||
| - | The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite navigation system designed and installed by the US Department of Defence (DOD) commencing in 1978. The system which cost the US taxpayer over $10 billion (and costs nothing to use), was fully commissioned in 1995. It is comprised of 24 Navstar satellites in 6 circular orbits at an altitude of about 20,200km and inclined at an angle of 55 degrees to the Equator as per the drawing. Each orbit contains 4 equally spaced satellites that circle the globe in 12 hours and pass over the same spot on the earth every 24 hours. | + | The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite navigation system designed and installed by the US Department of Defence (DOD) commencing in 1978. The system which cost the US taxpayer over $10 billion (and costs nothing to use), was fully commissioned in 1995. It is comprised of 24 Navstar satellites in 6 circular orbits at an altitude of about 20,200km and inclined at an angle of 55 degrees to the Equator as per the drawing. Each orbit contains 4 equally spaced satellites that circle the globe in 12 hours and pass over the same spot on the earth every 24 hours. At any one time at least six satellites should be ' |
| - | At any one time at least six satellites should be ' | + | |
| The satellites are controlled from a US DOD master control station in Colorado Springs USA, which is linked to several monitoring stations around the world. The satellites transmit signals on two L band radio frequencies containing information on satellite identity, its precise position, it's velocity and the time as determined by 4 atomic clocks in each satellite. | The satellites are controlled from a US DOD master control station in Colorado Springs USA, which is linked to several monitoring stations around the world. The satellites transmit signals on two L band radio frequencies containing information on satellite identity, its precise position, it's velocity and the time as determined by 4 atomic clocks in each satellite. | ||
| - | The GPS receiver measures the time taken for the signal from at least four satellites to reach it to determine its latitude, longtitude, height above mean sea level, GPS receiver clock error compensation, | + | |
| - | The receiver can be used to locate one's present location or by feeding in the bearings of other locations, it can be used to determine the direction to take to get to that other location. | + | The GPS receiver measures the time taken for the signal from at least four satellites to reach it to determine its latitude, longtitude, height above mean sea level, GPS receiver clock error compensation, |
| This information can be stored in the receiver' | This information can be stored in the receiver' | ||
| Each satellite transmits two sets of signals, an encoded Precise Positioning Service (PPS) for the military and official users and a standard Positioning Service (SPS) for general use. The basic accuracy of the system is approximately 22 M horizontally and 27M Vertically, but for security reasons, the DOD uses a system called Selective Availability (SA) for non military users. This inserts a variable error into the information transmitted by each satellite to reduce this accuracy to 100M horizontally and 160M vertically. By standing in the one spot and averaging several position readings this error can be reduced and most good GPS receivers have an automatic averaging position although because the SA on each satellite is different and the SA changes slowly the average as indicated may still not achieve the military PPS accuracy. | Each satellite transmits two sets of signals, an encoded Precise Positioning Service (PPS) for the military and official users and a standard Positioning Service (SPS) for general use. The basic accuracy of the system is approximately 22 M horizontally and 27M Vertically, but for security reasons, the DOD uses a system called Selective Availability (SA) for non military users. This inserts a variable error into the information transmitted by each satellite to reduce this accuracy to 100M horizontally and 160M vertically. By standing in the one spot and averaging several position readings this error can be reduced and most good GPS receivers have an automatic averaging position although because the SA on each satellite is different and the SA changes slowly the average as indicated may still not achieve the military PPS accuracy. | ||
| - | By the use of a commercially available system called Differential GPS. (DGPS) which transmits GPS corrections | + | |
| - | from measuring the error at known fixed locations, accuracies of 1M horizontally can be achieved. (This system requires a special second receiver tuned to the frequency transmitting the DGPS information.) | + | By the use of a commercially available system called Differential GPS. (DGPS) which transmits GPS corrections |
| - | Accuracy down to cms or even mms is apparently achievable with the correct equipment and procedures and modern surveying makes use of this facility. | + | |
| - | The DOD intend | + | The DOD intend |
| - | The best GPS accuracy is achieved in open country in dry weather. | + | |
| - | Where does one obtain information on GPS? | + | Where does one obtain information on GPS? The Internet is a good source of information. Typing in `GPS' on Yahoo, AltaVista or other directory or search engine will provide access to many sources of information from receiver manufacturers and suppliers, the Coast Guard and from the US DOD. |
| - | The Internet is a good source of information. Typing in `GPS' on Yahoo, AltaVista or other directory or search engine will provide access to many sources of information from receiver manufacturers and suppliers, the Coast Guard and from the US DOD. | + | |
| The accuracy of the cheapest and the higher priced hand held units is basically identical and the extra cost sometimes covers unnecessary- extras eg many GPS receivers contain features aimed at boat owners such as charts of harbours showing the positions of buoys, etc. One important feature not fitted to the cheapest units is a long life battery (lO years) to ensure stored information is not lost when the operating batteries go flat and have to be changed. Operating batteries, usually AA cells, can sometimes last only about 24 hours. | The accuracy of the cheapest and the higher priced hand held units is basically identical and the extra cost sometimes covers unnecessary- extras eg many GPS receivers contain features aimed at boat owners such as charts of harbours showing the positions of buoys, etc. One important feature not fitted to the cheapest units is a long life battery (lO years) to ensure stored information is not lost when the operating batteries go flat and have to be changed. Operating batteries, usually AA cells, can sometimes last only about 24 hours. | ||
| - | The GPS receiver should have at least 8 channels permitting processing of up to 8 satellites at once (8 is the maximum number of satellites that can be seen at any one time). | + | |
| - | As it takes 30 seconds to download the information from one satellite it could take 2 minutes to obtain the information from the four satellites required for accuracy, if the | + | The GPS receiver should have at least 8 channels permitting processing of up to 8 satellites at once (8 is the maximum number of satellites that can be seen at any one time). As it takes 30 seconds to download the information from one satellite it could take 2 minutes to obtain the information from the four satellites required for accuracy, if the GPS receiver only had one channel and had to process each satellite sequentially. |
| - | GPS receiver only had one channel and had to process each satellite sequentially. | + | |
| Before making a purchase or even approaching a salesman I strongly recommend that intending GPS receiver purchasers first read a basic book an the subject. Unfortunately, | Before making a purchase or even approaching a salesman I strongly recommend that intending GPS receiver purchasers first read a basic book an the subject. Unfortunately, | ||
| + | |||
| It stresses and explains 'The four Golden Rules of GPS': | It stresses and explains 'The four Golden Rules of GPS': | ||
| 1. Always use four or more satellites | 1. Always use four or more satellites | ||
| Line 333: | Line 344: | ||
| 3. Always use the correct map datum | 3. Always use the correct map datum | ||
| 4. Use an average position when possible. | 4. Use an average position when possible. | ||
| + | |||
| A list of the chapter headings illustrates the practical nature of the publication. | A list of the chapter headings illustrates the practical nature of the publication. | ||
| 1. GPS: The Nuts and Bolts. | 1. GPS: The Nuts and Bolts. | ||
| Line 348: | Line 360: | ||
| Notes. CD The Soviets have a similar GPS system called GLONASS giving similar accuracy. | Notes. CD The Soviets have a similar GPS system called GLONASS giving similar accuracy. | ||
| - | (Z)Drawing reproduced from Exploring GPS by permission of the publishers GPSCO | + | (Z)Drawing reproduced from Exploring GPS by permission of the publishers GPSCO. OPDOP Position Dilution Of Precision The accuracy of the positioning accuracy depends upon the location of the satellites used which must be as far apart as possible. Most GPS receivers indicate the PDOP by a number on the screen, the lower the number the greater the possible accuracy. |
| - | OPDOP Position Dilution Of Precision The accuracy of the positioning accuracy depends upon the location of the satellites used which must be as far apart as possible. Most GPS receivers indicate the PDOP by a number on the screen, the lower the number the greater the possible accuracy. | + | |
| - | By standing still for a short time, several different positions will be shown due to various factors including the SA. By averaging these readings a more accurate position should be arrived at. Better quality GPS receivers include automatic averaging. | + | By standing still for a short time, several different positions will be shown due to various factors including the SA. By averaging these readings a more accurate position should be arrived at. Better quality GPS receivers include automatic averaging.This permits a simple clock to be used in the GPS receiver. |
| - | This permits a simple clock 10 be used in the GPS receiver. | + | |
| Articles or letters for the magazine from club members outlining their experiences using GPS receivers in actual walking or skiing situations would be welcome. Ed | Articles or letters for the magazine from club members outlining their experiences using GPS receivers in actual walking or skiing situations would be welcome. Ed | ||
| + | |||
| Expeditions, | Expeditions, | ||
| - | trekking Nepal. Plus | + | trekking Nepal. Plus cheap flights, permits,visas - complete expedition management |
| - | Cheap flights, permits | + | Join us on the verandah.Relax with a free coffee |
| - | visas - complete expedition | + | |
| - | management | + | |
| - | Gear Join us on the verandah | + | |
| - | Relax with a free coffee | + | |
| - | who you wait for your | + | |
| - | bushwalking | + | |
| Sell some old gear on the noticeboard. | Sell some old gear on the noticeboard. | ||
| - | Widt out a rain storm with old copilot | + | Wait out a rain storm with old copies |
| - | Were open 7 days, 22 Station St Mt Victoria (opp the Pub) | + | Were open 7 days, 22 Station St Mt Victoria (opp the Pub)(02 4787 /777) |
| - | (02 4787 /777) | + | Courses : intro to climbing, |
| - | Courses : intro to climbing, | + | roping, |
| - | intro to abseiling, | + | |
| - | roping, | + | |
| - | navigation & survival, | + | |
| - | rainwear, | + | |
| - | wetsuits - sale/hire, maps, compasses, | + | |
| - | chalk, tape,packs | + | |
| *** FINAL NOTICE *** | *** FINAL NOTICE *** | ||
| - | SBW PHOTOGRAPH AND SLIDE COMPETITIO | + | SBW PHOTOGRAPH AND SLIDE COMPETITION |
| Wednesday 24th November 1999. $300 total prize value. | Wednesday 24th November 1999. $300 total prize value. | ||
| For full details see page 6 of the May 1999 magazine or the rear page of the Winter or Spring Walks programs. There will be a $50 gift voucher for the winner of each category, kindly donated by the following bushwalking shops: | For full details see page 6 of the May 1999 magazine or the rear page of the Winter or Spring Walks programs. There will be a $50 gift voucher for the winner of each category, kindly donated by the following bushwalking shops: | ||
| - | ALPSPORT | + | |
| - | EASTWOOD CAMPING | + | ALPSPORT |
| - | KATHMANDU | + | EASTWOOD CAMPING 1045 VICTORIA ROAD EASTWOOD NSW 2112 |
| - | 1045 VICTORIA ROAD 3 TRELAWNEY STREET | + | KATHMANDU |
| - | WEST RYDENSW 2114 EASTWOOD NSW 2112 SYDNEY. NSW 2000 | + | MOUNTAIN DESIGNS 499 KENT STREET |
| - | Phone 9858-5844 Phone 9858 3833 Phone 9261 8901 | + | MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT |
| - | MOUNTAIN DESIGNS | + | PADDY PALLIN |
| - | 499 KENT STREET | + | |
| - | SYDNEY NSW 2000 ' ' | + | |
| - | Phone 9267 3822 Phone 9264 5888, Phone 9264 2685 | + | |
| Line 399: | Line 396: | ||
| by Frank Davis | by Frank Davis | ||
| ' | ' | ||
| + | |||
| Didn't sound too difficult. I could do that. An option of walk or canyon, Bush Club and Ramblers together. Experienced leaders - Don Brooks (SBW) and Dick Weston.(SBW). Would there ever be a better chance to try canyoning? | Didn't sound too difficult. I could do that. An option of walk or canyon, Bush Club and Ramblers together. Experienced leaders - Don Brooks (SBW) and Dick Weston.(SBW). Would there ever be a better chance to try canyoning? | ||
| + | |||
| Our group of twenty divided into the thirteen to walk with Don and the five who were to follow Dick into Du Faurs Canyon. Of those. with Dick, I think the ' | Our group of twenty divided into the thirteen to walk with Don and the five who were to follow Dick into Du Faurs Canyon. Of those. with Dick, I think the ' | ||
| - | The river is reached via a track that starts near the Fire, Station on Mt. Wilson Road. A somewhat eroded track down to a rock outcrop at Flat Saddle. This marks the side track leading to Joe's Canyon and provides a great morning tea site. | + | The river is reached via a track that starts near the Fire, Station on Mt. Wilson Road. A somewhat eroded track down to a rock outcrop at Flat Saddle. This marks the side track leading to Joe's Canyon and provides a great morning tea site. Joe's Canyon proved to be narrow and scenically impressive. The water shallow and patchy and impossible to skirt. I wondered why I had bothered to avoid puddles at the beginning of the track. We reached Du Faurs Canyon, changed into our ' |
| - | Joe's Canyon proved to be narrow and scenically impressive. The water shallow and patchy and impossible to skirt. I wondered why I had bothered to avoid puddles at the beginning of the track. We reached Du Faurs Canyon, changed into our ' | + | |
| - | They say experience is a wonderful thing. Well lack of experience, I'm here to tell you, can be a real problem. | + | They say experience is a wonderful thing. Well lack of experience, I'm here to tell you, can be a real problem. I wore a full-length Lycra suit over thermals and I had a lilo narrower than normal (to allow easier arm movement). Lycra had been just fine for diving in Queensland; even over thermals it was no match for the chill of the water here. The smaller lilo was O.K. until, because it was not rubberised, it allowed air to escape through the fabric when it became wet. |
| - | I wore a full-length Lycra suit over thermals and I had a lilo narrower than normal (to allow easier arm movement). Lycra had been just fine for diving in Queensland; even over thermals it was no match for the chill of the water here. The smaller lilo was O.K. until, because it was not rubberised, it allowed air to escape through the fabric when it became wet. | + | |
| - | Aside from the distractions of marvelling at breath-taking views, trying to photograph them with an inadequate disposable camera and repeatedly inflating my lilo, the canyon was traversed. | + | Aside from the distractions of marvelling at breath-taking views, trying to photograph them with an inadequate disposable camera and repeatedly inflating my lilo, the canyon was traversed. Imagine rock-hopping, |
| - | Imagine rock-hopping, | + | |
| We reached the junction of Bell Creek Canyon which Dick intended to enter. While the others explored I chased a small, warming patch of sunlight which moved all too rapidly as the sun moved across the opening of the canyon. The thermals had proved inadequate and to go into an even colder canyon had not seemed wise. The intrepid five returned and we took lunch. | We reached the junction of Bell Creek Canyon which Dick intended to enter. While the others explored I chased a small, warming patch of sunlight which moved all too rapidly as the sun moved across the opening of the canyon. The thermals had proved inadequate and to go into an even colder canyon had not seemed wise. The intrepid five returned and we took lunch. | ||
| + | |||
| Dick had planned to return, upstream, to our starting point. A stronger than normal water flow and comments from members of another group suggested the easier way would be to continue. This would take us into the Wollangambe River and to an exit point. "There was only a bit of a rock `block-up' | Dick had planned to return, upstream, to our starting point. A stronger than normal water flow and comments from members of another group suggested the easier way would be to continue. This would take us into the Wollangambe River and to an exit point. "There was only a bit of a rock `block-up' | ||
| - | Distant thunder claps were heard and a spattering of rain began to fall. This tends to concentrate the mind when you are enclosed within high rock walls and standing in flowing water. | + | |
| - | And so, off we went downstream. Back onto a deflating Lilo, back into the cold water. | + | Distant thunder claps were heard and a spattering of rain began to fall. This tends to concentrate the mind when you are enclosed within high rock walls and standing in flowing water. And so, off we went downstream. Back onto a deflating Lilo, back into the cold water.The rock block-up turned out to be a jumble of large boulders that, if dry, would have presented few problems. Now, fast flowing, tumbling water made their negotiation uncertain and in places, I achieved body contortions I had not thought possible.The tree block-up had apparently been scattered by recent rains and now trunks and branches lay in wait, submerged and hidden. We reached the exit point. It had taken longer than the half- hour predicted. |
| - | The rock block-up turned out to be a jumble of large boulders that, if dry, would have presented few problems. Now, fast flowing, tumbling water made their negotiation uncertain and in places, I achieved body contortions I had not thought possible. | + | |
| - | The tree block-up had apparently been scattered by recent rains and now trunks and branches lay in wait, submerged and hidden. | + | |
| - | We reached the exit point. It had taken longer than the half- hour predicted. | + | |
| While it would be difficult to describe as pleasant, the ' | While it would be difficult to describe as pleasant, the ' | ||
| - | My first experience of canyoning, and I had learned at least two things. Wear a real wetsuit and take flotation that floats. | + | My first experience of canyoning, and I had learned at least two things. Wear a real wetsuit and take flotation that floats. On the way back up the ridge the rain became a torrent and the track became a wild cascade. Lightning and thunderclaps 'came simultaneously. The rain turned to hail. We left the track and sought the shelter of a large rockface. The soaking rain had caught up with the walking party as well and they had become as wet as we canyoners. Fine weather returned in time to give us perfect conditions at Wynnes Rock for the ritual of afternoon tea. |
| - | On the way back up the ridge the rain became a torrent and the track became a wild cascade. Lightning and thunderclaps 'came simultaneously. The rain turned to hail. We left the track and sought the shelter of a large rockface. The soaking rain had caught up with the walking party as well and they had become as wet as we canyoners. | + | |
| - | Fine weather returned in time to give us perfect conditions at Wynnes Rock for the ritual of afternoon tea. | + | |
| Next Month | Next Month | ||
| Myalls and Miles | Myalls and Miles | ||
| Another damp walk, this time in the Barrington area is described by Frank Davis. | Another damp walk, this time in the Barrington area is described by Frank Davis. | ||
| - | Articles are wanted for your magazine. | + | |
| - | Magazine editors abhor blank pages as nature abhors a vacuum. | + | Articles are wanted for your magazine. Magazine editors abhor blank pages as nature abhors a vacuum. |
| - | Some editors must resort to writing their own articles, or use wide gaps between paragraphs, or resurrect old articles. | + | Some editors must resort to writing their own articles, or use wide gaps between paragraphs, or resurrect old articles. The editor' |
| - | The editor' | + | My email address is: rraymond@ozemail com au |
| - | Articles may be submitted as typed copy, on floppy disk or via email. | + | |
| - | It is preferred that they be in Microsoft Word but any current word processing program would be acceptable. | + | |
| - | My email address is: ri.-Ay_monthrpozeinail com_au | + | |
199911.txt · Last modified: 2016/01/20 20:11 by kennettj