SBW Magazine & History Project

THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER is a monthly bulletin of matters of interest to members of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc.
PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565.
To advertise in this magazine, please contact the Business Manager.

The Sydney Bush Walkers Incorporated was founded in 1927.
Club meetings are held every Wednesday evening at 8 pm at Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, Kirribilli (near Milsons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members are welcome any Wednesday.

Issue No. 790

The Sydney Bushwalker magazine is printed on recycled paper.

There has been much discussion both in the clubroom and on walks, regarding the poor patronage of club walks, particularly overnight walks (and of other club functions). This trend is not peculiar to SBW and is partially due to a more affluent society giving people more opportunities and resources to travel further afield, as is evidenced in some of the recent magazine articles, and the resources to pursue other interests.

One result of the improved affluence, the ownership of cars, permits more extended walking in areas that were previously too far from Sydney for earlier walkers using public transport.

The three Easter walk articles in this issue highlight this fact.

Whilst it was possible to access Yerranderie by bus prior to the closure of the mines and the flooding of the Burragorang Valley, availability of public transport limited opportunities.

The 1938 Blue Mountains walk described by Jean Ashdown required the participants to use two forms of public transport to access Kanangra Walls and still involved a lengthy walk to the starting point with a long walk from the Cox to Katoomba at the finish.

With these handicaps there were still over 30 walkers camped at the Dance Floor cave on Thursday night.

In contrast, the short article from Don Finch, re his recent Glen Davis walk, highlights the fact that with modern transport overnight walks do not have to be marathon efforts to be enjoyable.

Carol Lubber's excellent new spring program certainly presents a wide range of contrasting walks which should suit all tastes.

reported by Alex Colley

The meeting commenced at 8.10 with the President as chairman and some 16 members present. After the minutes had been confirmed, our president announced that the proposed new regulations for the admission of prospectives (detailed on page 15 of this magazine) would be given a 6-month trial and that additional training was also under consideration. Rae Ogilvie was welcomed as a new member.

Our Treasurer reported an opening balance for the month of $14,593.93, an expenditure of $1,491.10, credits of $307.60 and a closing balance of $16,160.52.

Andrew Vilder, our Social Secretary, reported on our enjoyable mid-winter feast which was followed by the screening of *A Singular Woman*, featuring Marie Byles, which entertained everyone till the end of the evening. He also spoke about the very interesting talk by Almis Silmankevicius on the subject of his book describing his walk over the Pilgrim Trail in Spain.

Fourteen prospectives attended the Coolana weekend and 10–15 attended Ian Rannard's navigation instruction.

Pat James reported that we now had a 3 square metre garden shed at Coolana, complete except for the floor, locks and camouflage painting. Some garden tools and a crowbar were needed. Coolana was now looking like Windsor Park.

Coming events include the annual club auction conducted by Patrick James on Wednesday 23rd Aug — no junk by request — with profits to be donated to conservation. On Wednesday 30th Colin Watson will present slides on early bushwalking.

Due to the absence of the Conservation Secretary there was no conservation report.

Jim Callaway described difficult times at Confederation. Since nobody would become Honorary Secretary, someone will have to be paid to do the job. The present secretary is also acting as treasurer. A business manager for the Confederation magazine and a Minutes Secretary are also required. In view of the fact that the management regulations of the NPWS severely restrict what can be done in parks, Confederation is seeking a blanket consent for member clubs. A party had recently been pulled up for abseiling.

Due to the lack of reports from some leaders, our Walks Secretary was unable to cover all of the previous month's walks. This is a pity because new members like to know the best places to visit.

Greg Bray's walk on July 9th, to Mt. Solitary and Ruined Castle, was enjoyed by 8 members and 6 prospectives who dined together at Katoomba afterwards. On the weekend of July 15–16 there were 7 starters on Chris Dowling's walk to Govetts Leap and Victoria Falls in perfect weather. Roger Treagus' circumnavigation of Narrabeen Lake attracted 18 members of the NPA and 16 from the SBW. Wilf Hilder had to cancel his circumnavigation of Port Jackson, stage 4, due to foot trouble. Ian Wolfe's 4-day skiing trip went with only 2 starters. Fifteen people enjoyed Gemma Gagne's maintenance and property exploration of Coolana. A “reasonable party” went with Tony Crichton on his Kanangra–Yerranderie–Kowmung River trip and fifteen camped at Mount Dawson with Tony Manes on his Gardens of Stone trip.

On the weekend of July 21–22, Maureen Carter led 14 members and 1 prospective on an enjoyable walk in the Royal National Park. Wilf Hilder's 48 km walk in Wollemi on July 21–24 was attended by 9 members and 1 prospective. Some beautiful creeks were a feature of the walk and a calf that had lost its mother was consoled. Jan Mohandas had to abandon his Kanangra Walk because of snow on the road and visited the Colo River instead. Chris Dowling's walk in Ku-ring-gai National Park attracted 14 starters and concluded with a run in his boat. Eleven members and 7 prospectives went on Nigel Weaver's Marra Mar National Park walk. They had a great day during which they viewed Aboriginal carvings and managed to find their way through the cliff lines.

On Ian Wolfe's skiing trip from 3rd to 7th Aug, wild pigs were encountered running through the snow, along with foxes, black cockatoos and robins. Trail bikes were encountered on Bill Hope's Nattat walk that was attended by 1 prospective and 1 member. Phil Newman's 33 km Berowra Valley walk on the 5th, attended by 8 members, finished in Phil's backyard. Roger Treagus' Barren Grounds walk was done in fog — perhaps Hughie's punishment for Roger's past work in the Weather Bureau. In the fog they found no trace of the plane wreck.

There was no general business and the meeting closed around 9.15.

*Barry Wallace was on holidays*

The new spring walks program is packed with interesting walks and it is difficult to pick out individual ones for special mention but here are two that are slightly different.

Roger Treagus' fourteen-stage Great River walk gives club members the opportunity to walk in areas rarely visited and through a large range of country. Walkers may pick and choose or complete the whole trip from the source of the Wollondilly to the mouth of the Hawkesbury.

Those lucky people who joined Jim Percy on day 1 of his 8 day Blue Mts Crossing on Saturday Sept. 9th will already know. Why don't you join him on the rest of his walks and find out for yourself as you experience what B, W&L experienced? See the current walks program for details of both walks.

by Jean Ashdown (née Malcolm)

Arrived at Katoomba (where it was chilly) about 8:30 pm on Thursday. After a great effort we at last managed to get a milkshake apiece and settled down in the big bus to take us out to Jenolan Caves. It was a very pleasant drive out in the moonlight, if only there hadn't been so many packs to hug and so many sharp curves in the road. However, we arrived about 1:30 am with Daphne (Bali) just succumbing to the jolt of the bus by getting sick.

At the Grand Arch we got out, stretched our legs, and took an eyeful of the nearby sights. Daphne and I nearly stopped a rock that some boys had started rolling from a higher viewpoint. Luckily we managed to get out of the way, but it gave us quite a start. The caretaker cut up a bit cranky about people wandering around at that time of night. The bus had recovered from overheated brakes, so we started off again up the hill on the other side of the caves — a terrific grade that we just crawled up. It seemed to go on for miles, but eventually we “breasted the brae” and came to the Oberon turn-off.

Here the driver, and also one in another bus loaded with walkers, went on strike with the plea that the road was too bad to take us any further. After mutiny and a long consultation, Scenic Tours won and we all turned out at 2 am in thick white mist, which was rapidly getting worse. Daphne and I put our packs in a hollow tree, hung the tent up on the gate, and were soon tucked up. We were awake by 6 am and pushed off for the extra 7 miles before breakfast. We were first off, most of the others preferring to start much later. Met Taro (Walter Tarr) and hobnobbed a bit.

Friday. It was particularly annoying to note that the road was easily navigable for another two and a half miles at least, so Scenic Tours had diddled us badly. However, we made good pace, had breakfast about ten, and lunched at a creek on the way about 1 pm. Later in the afternoon we got out on the tops where it was chilly, packs were heavy, and we were pretty tired. We stopped to inspect the half-built boarding house and pushed on to the Walls.

Eventually we started to go down into a green grassy valley and head around it to the Walls and Kanangra Cave. The cave was well patronised that night as about thirty were camped in and around it. We made a scratch meal as it was about 3 pm and decided to go sightseeing despite the heavy mist that came in waves. We climbed the ladder, went out on the headland, and saw quite a lot in spasmodic views. Came back and settled down to a large meal and comfort for the night. Brenda's (White) party were just arriving.

Saturday. Trevor, our leader, did not turn up, evidently delayed by the mist, so Doug had to take the reins as deputy. We had decided that we would have to abandon the trip if the mist held, but that morning we awoke to a blanket of vapour. Strange to say, it started to clear suddenly, so we had to hustle and pack.

At 8:30 am we once again started up the ladder, took a good look at the Walls, and followed the headland out and down by Smith's Pass. Here some scouts followed us, thinking we were going to Hugh's Ridge (the opposite direction), but we managed to put them right. We climbed down into fairly wooded country, then on to the heights under Craft's Wall on the left-hand side of it. It was pretty rough for a while, but we came out on the end of the ridge, where we were rather confused with rocky outcrops.

Following the ridge out to Gabes Gap, we seemed to be on top of the world. Dropping into the Gap we then had to climb up onto High and Mighty, the top of the world. A dry lunch was the order of the day and we needed it. The next part of the trip — “Rack, Roar, Rumble” — was tough; it was necessary to go up one, down the other side, only to start climbing again.

Three boys of a separate party seemed here to be passing and repassing us. Then one of them became ill. They had camped at the cave the previous night, but, we thought, had cut out food necessities. They started two hours ahead of us in the morning, had blazed a trail out to Peter's (Page) Pinnacle, and had overdone things. The one chap seemed to be cracking up, but we couldn't help much.

Then Daphne fell and put her first finger out of joint, which had to be put back and bandaged up. Unfortunately, the shock was bad for her, apart from the pain, so we had to drop our pace a bit. I fell and bruised the fleshy part of my leg badly, but luckily it did not affect the walking. Hilda (McArtney Blunt) also developed a bad instep and had to walk on her toes, so we appeared to have a heck of trouble. After many weary efforts we topped “Cloudmaker”, the king of the countryside, and easier than the others at the last. We got up on the trig as usual, left our names in the bottle there, and really felt we had accomplished something. According to Trevor's schedule we were on time too. The view is lovely and wonderfully extensive.

From there it was comparatively easy going down the mountain to strike the head of the creek and water. As we had had no water since breakfast, everybody went mad and jubilation for water caused a halt. We had to work down the creek to find a camp spot, hoping also to find someone who knew the district for our next trip. Paddy was scheduled to be there, but Dr. Dark was the only one we struck camping. We then returned back upstream to camp where Colin and Ray had camped a few weeks previous, it being one of the few available spots for tents on Dex Creek, apart from the swamps.

Doug did not feel too pleased at the prospect of finding our track the next day and it seemed like the last straw, after a hard day dragging (figuratively if not physically) the whole party up hill and down dale.

We were just unpacking when one of the three boys whom we had seen earlier in the day arrived at our camp with news that two of his cobbers were ill and on the top of Cloudmaker. Would we go with him and get them down? Two of our party immediately volunteered to help, so we made them take sweaters, torches, matches, etc. Food was unnecessary. They refused to take the lad as he was in a very overwrought condition and likely to need help himself, so they set off without him.

About a quarter of an hour later he tried to slip away on his own without even a torch, but I saw him and we persuaded him that his friends would be all right now. Tea was the next necessity for Daphne (a bit late, I'm afraid), the strange lad, and indeed all of us, after a day such as it had been. About three quarters of an hour later we heard cooeeing from the rescue direction and shortly after Charlie Roberts and party walked in on us complete with the two ailing boys and our rescue party.

Luckily Charlie and Co were finishing on Cloudmaker, picked up the lads, later met the rescuers on the way up, and all was well — but it says quite a lot that two of our party faced the prospect of a night on the mountain to help the others. Charlie and Co told us the lad with us was stone deaf, which accounted for his apparent overwrought condition. All were regaled with tea as the only stimulant we could offer, then Charlie and Co camped lower down while the three boys stayed with us.

We tucked in early that night. As luck would have it, a storm came on unexpectedly, and Daphne and I got rather wet, as the tent had been put up haphazardly owing to the fine weather.

Next morning saw the three lads off about 7:30 am and us about 8 am. Charlie and Co were more leisurely. We climbed up from Dex Creek at Dr. Dark's camp and got into wooded country, in which it was hard to trace landmarks. However, with a capable leader and a compass we plodded on till we had to drop into a creek not shown at all on the map.

After following the valley some time and being in doubt as to our bearing, we saw a likely-looking ridge for landmarks on our right and decided to get on to it. This we did and could see less than before, as it was thickly wooded. We followed it out to the end and came on a fireplace; some bright person remarked we would have company if we were lost.

Then came a big consultation. Each one studied the map and tried to suggest something, but we got nowhere, except that we had correctly followed north. Arnold then did the monkey act and climbed a tree, without much luck. We decided to strike west as the best proposition and presently came out on a bare ridge edge. Here we managed to pick out Mt. Morilla, a bare cliff face directly opposite, and placed ourselves at last.

Then a cooee from the ridge to the west — even another lost party — gave us heart and confirmed our idea that we were on the wrong ridge. We had to skirt round the head of the ridge, working back onto the other ridge, and when nearly opposite Morilla, came on Paddy (Pallin) and Peter (Page), who had come up from Konangaroo that morning and were heading for Cloudmaker for lunch.

Feeling quite bucked we started off again with a dust storm in the air now. Out to Heartbreaker and Strongleg — rocky outcrops with plenty of climbing and rough stuff to tire one. Hard rock underfoot and rock-hopping made it hard going, so that I for one was not sorry when we said a final farewell to Strongleg and started on the downgrade with the soft slopes underfoot. This was done in record time as I excel coming downhill.

Later we all finished at Konangaroo for lunch and met our leader, Trevor. The mists had changed their plans, hence his non-appearance. Charlie (Pryde) and Co were there too, so we dined altogether. A swim cooled us off, and then 7 miles down to the Cox to Breakfast Creek. Here we joined up with Wal (Roots) and Co and next day up to Carlon's and later up Devil's Hole and into Katoomba.

*Diary entries which have never been previously published were supplied by Jean Wilson, sister of Grace Wagg, and niece of Jean Ashdown. The walk reads as if it was done last weekend.*

Congratulations also to Carol Lubbers' daughter Jonnene who carried the Olympic torch at Heddon Greta near Kurri Kurri. Patrick James is looking for the loan of lamps for Coolana. Carol, perhaps he and Jonnene can come to some arrangement?

Patrick James is seeking to beg-borrow or buy 2 or 3 more Tilley or other brand, pressure lamps for use at functions held at Coolana. Many people may still have such lamps stored in the dark recesses of their garages (left over from the Conde blackout days?). If you can help give Patrick a ring on 9904 1515.

The club membership list is maintained by the membership secretary Barry Wallace who uses the list for the preparation of all address labels used on the club magazine and on other publications.

To ensure that the list is as accurate as possible and that you do not miss out on the magazine, the walks program and other club publications, Barry requests that you send any alterations or corrections to your address and/or phone number directly to him.

Letters can be sent to Barry at our mail box PO Box 431 Milsons Point 1565.

The Annual Club Auction, postponed from August 23rd to accommodate the BridgeClimb talk by Paul Cave, will now be held on September 20.

The lucky winner of the BridgeClimb pass donated as a door prize by BridgeClimb CEO Paul Cave at his talk at the clubroom on August 23 was David Trinder. Congratulations David. Enjoy the view.

Articles on walks, skiing or abseil trips, recipes suitable for walking and camping and other items of interest to SBW members are always welcome for publication.

by Don Finch

Glen Davis to Glen Davis Trig via Pipeline Pass & return. June 16, 17 & 18th 2000

We camped at Glen Davis camping area on Friday night where hot water is available in the toilet block. Started walking at 8:15 am. Weather was blue sky and sunny throughout. A strong track runs east along the ridge from Pipeline Pass, there were numerous branches but we eventually abandoned the track and took to the scrub, which was thick. Slow progress and illness forced an early camp in the creek to the west of the Trig, water was found where expected in a 600l rock pool. We returned the same way in glorious weather.

A dog from Glen Davis was seen from time to time on Saturday night out near our camp. A wary, unfriendly dog that kept away from us but was obviously following our scent.

The cliffs of the Capertee Valley were stunning in the late afternoon sunlight as we walked back down the track to Glen Davis.

A hot shower at the camping area was much appreciated before a safe trip home.

Copy for publishing in the SBW magazine should be received by the editor by the second Monday of each month.

The deadline for last-minute urgent items is the second Wednesday of each month as the magazine is usually printed on the following Thursday.

Copy can be lodged by email to me at rraymond@ozemail.com.au or typed or on a 3.5“ PC floppy using any common word processing program. Ed.

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Willis's Walkabouts

Have a look at our website and see:
* Maps showing the relative locations of our trips
* Photos of all the areas where we operate
* The most recent version of our program and prices
* Written descriptions of the places we go

An easy way to request detailed trip notes for any particular trip or trips which interest you.

Like what you see? Ask for our brochure – it's free.

Willis's Walkabouts 12 Carrington St Millner NT 0810 Email walkabout@ais.net.au
Phone (08) 8985 2134 Fax (08) 8985 2355.
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by Morag Ryder

Pinch River-Suggan Buggan Range-Berrima Ridge - Snowy River-Pinch River

Friday 21st. Departed Sydney at 0630. A fast drive to Jindabyne, stopping for a hamburger lunch at the Banana Cafe. Mild, sunny day, with beautiful cumulus clouds. Arrived at Pinch/Snowy River junction about 4:15 pm. A good flat site with many car campers.

Saturday 22nd. Bright, sunny morning, we began walking at 0815, crossed the road bridge and followed the road along Pinch River to the 9 Mile Fire Trail turn off - then UP !! Stopped at 2nd locked gate to let two stockmen ride up ahead of us. We looked with envy at the ease with which four legs carried them up the 900 metre climb. Despite our heavy packs, we managed to reach the top just after noon and had lunch in a sunny snowgrass glade.

We were now on top of the Suggan Buggan Range, and followed useful horse-tracks over many little gullies and spurs until we gradually dropped down to the Ingegoodbee River. More like a creek than a river, with clear amber water cutting a deep vertical channel into the peaty soil, flanked on both sides with flat banks of emerald grass, close-cropped by the elusive brumbies. Despite all the tracks and droppings, we never did catch sight of one.

Up and down more spurs and gullies that sloped gently down to the river banks, eventually camping about 4:30 pm near Snow Gum Flat. Plenty of dead timber everywhere, we needed a good fire, because it promised to be a chilly night. Sundown was about 5:15 pm, and most of us were in bed around 8:30.

Sunday 23rd. Awoke to a frosted world. Grass, tents, logs, even the trees across the river were silver. Not surprising, the temperature was -6°C, so our tents were iced inside as well as out. Started out at 0815, and immediately had to cross the little river. Some of us used a narrow, ankle-deep crossing, but then had to walk bare-foot over the frozen grass to a sunny and thawed spot in order to re-shoe.

Frank Grennan found a good crossing-log further down for the rest of the party, so they could cross with dry (unfrozen) feet. Up onto Berrima Ridge, where we tried unsuccessfully to find cairns on the Victorian border. The horse tracks petered out, and the navigation became increasingly tricky. We were completely enclosed by tall timber, with no views of distant peaks to give us any bearings. No sign of the border cairns - and surprisingly, no signs of old bushfires either.

Nor were there any flowers, but we made up for them with masses of fungi. Mushrooms everywhere, in cream, brown, pink, yellow, mauve, gold, maroon and orange. After morning tea we came to a very old and overgrown fire trail, which eventually led us to our camp at Honeysuckle Creek.

Another beautiful camp site, with clear water and several magnificent very old trees. They towered into the pale blue evening sky, dressed in cocktail gowns of cream and apricot satin, with thick chocolate-brown ruffles around their feet.

The only disadvantage was from briar roses growing here and there. Nicely decorated with scarlet hips, they nevertheless had a way of catching you unawares - usually in some tender portion of your anatomy.

The evening was much milder than yesterday, and Glad spread out a white tablecloth for our big Happy Hour feast. An amazing assortment of goodies - including some very superior Belgian chocolate. After that we rather half-heartedly set about cooking our meals - not exactly ravenous any more. Later came the entertainment - Sev was our Chief Joker, and kept us entertained with some very good jokes, in between songs from the club song book (Why can't I remember reams of jokes the way Sev does?)

The high point of the evening was Ian's Skit, especially written for the occasion. I was so tired that I listened to it from my sleeping bag, and was gradually lulled to sleep by songs and laughter - my last waking memory was of the flickering orange firelight glowing through my tent.

Monday 24th. Woke with only a sprinkle of ice around the edges of the tent. Left camp at 0815, and had an energetic but disaster-free crossing on slippery rocks over the Ingegoodbee. More climbing; off-track at first, then eventually back to the old fire trail. At the top of our highest point for the morning - Ian's Cairn! Some of the more light-hearted members of the party joined hands and danced around it, singing “We found Ian's cairn, we found Ian's cairn, hey-ho the merry oh…”

After the obligatory group photo (courtesy of Frank G), we went on - only to discover that the fire trail did not. More careful navigation and two more climbs, then we began the long, steep, foot-skidding descent to the Snowy River. Gradually the fire trail reappeared and it was here we began to have really good views of the Byadbo mountain ranges.

The gums gave way to native Cypress, with an understorey of brilliant gold paper daisies. Lunch on a warm and sunny snowgrass flat, followed by a long and increasingly steep descent. Suddenly - the Snowy River was winding below, edged with willow and Lombardy Poplars, their yellow autumn leaves reflecting in the winding ribbon of sky blue water. A brief afternoon tea just above the Barry Way, then a sprint down the road, back to the cars at our riverside camp. The map showed a split in the road, one branch went up and down a hill - the other went around. We went around, and were faced with a long but not too difficult rock hop over an old landslide-cum-washaway. The cars at last - and Clean Clothes for our drive back on Tuesday. A real wash with warm water and incredibly - another happy hour - with chips, dips and three bottles of red wine courtesy of Pam. What a treasure the lady is - a True Member of SBW!

A marvellous end to terrific walk - and thanks to Pam, we could even drink a toast to our terrific leader.

by Dick Whittington

With my background of fell walking in the U.K. it was clear that I should join a bushwalking club upon emigration to Australia. So after becoming a prospective member of the S.B.W. I soon found myself with at least 30 others heading into the Brindabellas from the south, near Yaouk. It was an Easter trip in the mid 1970s.

It was on the first hill, a fire trail heading towards the saddle between Mt. Morgan and Mt Murray, that I noticed that some others carried remarkably small packs, and almost everyone wore sandshoes. I could see that with my 16kg pack and mountaineering boots I was at a disadvantage. It began to rain and I noticed that many people donned their ground sheet capes*. It occurred to me that these were a pretty smart idea, saving the weight of a raincoat and keeping one's pack dry at the same time.

As we progressed up that first hill I was passed by two individuals who had started later than most others. They moved like greyhounds. One of these I shall refer to as Strider. The other I was later to discover was the de facto leader. He had persuaded someone else to present the trip so that walkers of lesser strength and ability would not be deterred by his formidable reputation. The rain continued through the next day as we moved to a campsite at the foot of Mt Bimberi, the highest peak in the Brindabellas.

In the morning we were treated to a fine day and it was decided to leave our packs, and make an ascent of the mountain directly from the campsite, to which we would return for lunch. The party moved off together but were soon spread widely. I thought this odd because my British fell walking experience had taught me that parties should always stay together on mountains. I noticed that Strider and the de facto leader had each gone ahead, Strider to the left and the leader to the right. I determined that I would try to catch them. I took the centre of the ridge and by going hard soon found myself isolated from both the two in front and the rest of the party behind. My limited knowledge of topography told me that by following the crest of the ridge I would eventually arrive at the summit and so I continued alone. Upon reaching the summit I found Strider and the leader wearing all their warm clothing; they had clearly been there for some time. I wanted to ask who got there first, but judged that such an enquiry would be inappropriate. Years later when I knew Strider well I asked him this question, and the quickness of his response suggested to me that it had indeed been a race.

For the descent I was uncertain of the navigation, and so, when the party again spread out I latched onto a sub group that seemed to know where they were going. I realised my choice had been poor when we re-joined the fire trail about 1km from the campsite, a distance that had to be repeated in order to recover our packs.

The following day an ascent of Mt Kelly was accomplished in similar style; this time the company was spread further and wider, with only a reduced number achieving the summit. Eventually the entire party re-grouped at the foot of the mountain, some arriving late from unlikely directions. In keeping with the nature of the trip the return to the cars was a matter of choice, with most participants following the fire trail but some taking a more direct line across difficult country.

Reflecting upon my experience later, I concluded that the liberated attitude of the walkers, with their emphasis on lightweight rapid movement through the bush; whilst contrary to much of what I had learned, was wonderfully refreshing. The S.B.W. was for me.

Over the years changes have occurred such that bushwalking today is closer to my original fell walking experience. Volleys have given way to boots, groundsheet capes have disappeared without trace, replaced by Gortex rain shells, but most importantly there is a change of attitude, in that parties are limited in size and usually make every effort to stay together. I suppose this is all to the good but I am glad that I was around at the end of that former era.

*A modified groundsheet, including hood and press studs which provided a waterproof and well ventilated outer membrane that also covered one's pack.

From Bill Holland

Following the success of the November 1999 Coolana “Hootnanny”, we are arranging another musical treat for the first weekend in November. All members, prospective members, visitors, and families are warmly invited to attend.

The theme for the weekend is Bush Music around the campfire, but there will also be other attractions to enjoy. The Poleson family (including members John and Chris) will once again add to the fine entertainment provided last year.

We would also like you to participate — bring along your instrument, guitar, mouth organ, fiddle, or simply your singing voice. Ample shelter will be provided if the weather turns damp.

Transport assistance, including river crossings by canoe for older or less mobile members, can be arranged.

======Bushwalkers Friday 13th======
Bushdance at Petersham Town Hall

Come along my Sweeties to the Petersham Town Hall

Friday 13th October

and dress-up in your best Witch or Warlock!

Dance to the music of The Currency Lads

From 7:30
Tickets from your bushwalking club or Till at the door

$10 single or $25 for the Whole Coven
Midnight if you dare

CONTACT CAROL LUBBERS IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MAKING UP AN SBW PARTY
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This is the new backpack from WE. The NEW RIVER.
As you would expect, it is unmistakably Wilderness Equipment. Every detail has had to earn its keep in a development process spanning 20 years. If the picture could be turned around you'd be looking at the most comfortable and durable harness system there is. Which, of course, is a good reason not to make more than one or two subtle changes.

So what is really new? Look down the list of special features. We've brought into play unique ideas we've been carrying around for some time. They solve outstanding problems, ones you will quickly recognise from your own mountain and wilderness travels.

Come and see the NEW RIVER and get an expert fitting at:

Eastwood Camping Centre

3 Trelawney Street

Eastwood

Telephone: 9858 3833

NEW RIVER

An expedition-capacity pack available in the full range of WE sizes and harness configurations.

eastwood camping centre

Features:
* Detachable top cover teams with the hip-harness waist-strap to carry it as a comfortable twin-compartment bum-bag.
* Main canvas bag extends to a dry-bag type roll top with two compression straps over. You can swim and raft with this pack, or use it in bivies.
* Leave the top cover and base behind for absolute lightweight.
* Separate zip access into the expanding interior space of the top cover.
* Readily accessible flat pocket for laminated maps (comes with a thin PE cutting-board insert).
* Canvas back-pocket modules available.
* Nothing but canvas fabric in the seams of the bag. No webbing, no touch-tape, no leakage pathways and simply zero stress points.
* Quick-release or standard side compression straps, all re-movable. Position the buckles where you wish.
* We've gone back to a simple touch-tape strap closure on the hip-harness. Unbreakable, durable and absolutely zero creep.
* Subtle shoulder harness suspension. Soaks up the phase difference between hip and shoulder dynamics, tunable to the pack weight.
* Close fitting, removable base reinforcing attaching front and back. Leakage pathways in the main-bag seams eliminated; easy repair.
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by Steve Irwin (BWRS Committee)

Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue is the oldest rescue squad of any type still in existence in NSW. It was founded in 1936 by the leading bushwalkers of the time, such as Paddy Pallin. Since then it has undergone a number of changes, such as joining the Volunteer Rescue Association (VRA) in 1970, but it is still effectively the same as it was when it was founded over 60 years ago.

Up until now, when Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue was activated for a search and rescue, the call has been received by a Field Officer who then contacted a number of relevant club search and rescue contacts, who contacted the individual people inside their club. This model has served us well for 60 years, but is becoming outdated and is not suitable for the modern rescue environment.

To demonstrate the problems this structure is causing Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue, an example is the recent case of four teenagers lost in the Budawangs in May 2000. This was BWRS' most successful job in almost a decade, where our bush skills and knowledge of the country was a primary factor in the successful conclusion to this search. But the search did show some glaring deficiencies in the way Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue operates, and the question of allowing untrained/unqualified persons to participate in searches. These problems have not gone unnoticed by other authorities. The two important problems are:

1. Only a small proportion of Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue personnel are uniformed. This makes us look unprofessional, even if we are as good or better than the uniformed personnel from other services. A second aspect of this point — it was mentioned by the helicopter crews that our personnel were difficult to see in the bush as they were not wearing bright colours.

2. Even though all of our personnel are skilled in bushcraft, some bushwalkers who had never attended a training exercise turned up and Field Search coordinators were unfamiliar with their level of experience or qualifications. As a result they did not know how to use our radio systems and did not know how the search hierarchy was structured. This means they did not know how to behave and to whom to report in a multi-service environment.

Currently a working party is finalising the details of the new organisation structure, but the fundamentals of the new structure will be:

• A fixed membership squad. Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue will only use signed-up and current members for future call-outs. The clubs in general will only be called to the rare, large rescues requiring large numbers of people. However, BWR will continue to draw members from the clubs as is current practice.
• Squad training will be structured and based around competency-based training principles. Many skills, for example, first aid, vertical rescue or helicopter operations have existing external qualifications and they will be used as the Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue standard.
• A high level of bushcraft and physical fitness is required.
• Every member will have a documented level of skill that they have achieved in training. During call-outs, people will only perform actions within their level of skill. This means if a person has not achieved all required aspects of being a team member, they will not enter the bush.
• Every member will have a uniform. This uniform must be worn during training and call-outs.

Advised by Carol Lubbers (Walks Secretary)

Interested persons are invited to attend the training weekend to be held on 21st and 22nd October in the Newnes State Forest (Western Blue Mountains). To start the process of the Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue restructure, the normal October training exercise will be different to previous years. This year we will be discussing the new structure, and signing up interested people to the new organisation. We will also be commencing the new training systems. All people interested in being part of Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue are requested to contact us, and to attend the training weekend if possible.

Saturday will be a sign up day consisting of workshops, discussions, and training. Sunday will be a search exercise. Interested persons may attend Saturday only however to participate in Sunday's activities you must attend on Saturday as well.

NOTE:
1. The weekend will not be open to other rescue groups and is for BWRS only.
2. To attend we MUST pre-register our intentions BEFORE 9/10/00. (We will be notified of further details after registering.)
3. CONTACT CAROL LUBBERS: 4758 8791 (phone or fax) or email your interest to lubberscarol@bigpond.com as soon as possible. Not many of us will be able to commit ourselves, but we need to attend to get an idea of what is required and to what we are able to commit ourselves. Remember, callouts are very rare and may only happen once or twice a year. This is also a good chance to meet walkers from other clubs and demonstrate that SBW is not an elitist group of walkers!

Reported by Frank Grennan (New Members Secretary)

Over the past few years participation on weekend walks has declined, while at the same time attendance on day walks has steadily increased. This inevitably has resulted in a loss of leaders prepared to run weekend walks and has changed the perception of the club from that of a strong weekend walking club to a day walking club.

To reverse this trend we must encourage more members and prospective members to participate in weekend walks. The responsibility for prospective members lies with the New Members Secretary and as part of my contribution to reform, and with the approval of the committee I have introduced the following changes.

1. Prospective membership has been extended to 12 months.
2. The number of test walks required has been increased to 2 day test walks and 2 overnight test walks.
3. If full membership qualifications have not been met within the 12 months an additional 6 months will be granted at the same cost as the 12 months subscription.
4. Renewal of prospective membership will be denied if after 18 months qualifications are still not attained.

These proposals were voted on and passed, at the July committee meeting, to run on a trial basis until the first committee meeting after the 2001 annual general meeting.

The introduction of an additional weekend test walk should:

1. Increase the number of people participating in weekend walks.
2. Allow prospective members, new to weekend walking, to experience a walk without all of the added stress associated with their first attempt.
3. Reduce the number of people joining the club whose aim is to participate solely in easy day walks.

At present the vast majority of prospective members fail to complete all of the requirements necessary for full membership within six months. This may be due in part to work, social and family commitments. With the introduction of this additional weekend test walk this problem may be exacerbated and result in a greater loss of potential members. Extending the prospective membership to twelve months will alleviate this problem.

While I would like everybody to complete his/her membership requirements within the twelve months, on some occasions this may not be possible. To cater for those people I have introduced an additional six month period. However to encourage people to use this time only as a last resort the renewal fee will be the same as for the twelve month period.

Finally to prevent people remaining on prospective membership indefinitely I have introduced an automatic cut off point after eighteen months.

* Walking the Brecon Beacons by Ian Wolfe & Louise Verdon * The Gardens of Stone by Charlie Montross * Helicopters - Giving accurate bearings to rescuers. by Keith Maxwell (BWR)

* Heavy Metal 'Garbage' by Keith Maxwell (BWR) * Bushfire Precautions by Sue Davies (WA Bush Fire Service) * Sydney Trailwalkers 2000 by Richard Darke * A Strange Encounter. by Andrew Vilder

Refer to the walks program for full details.

Pre-meeting dinner at 6:30 pm every Wednesday at the Thai Connection next door to the Kirribilli Centre. No need to ring or book.

Do you have any suggestions for future Social Programs? If so, please contact Andrew Vilder on 9331 4539.

reported by Ken Smith

This report was submitted sometime ago by Ken but was unfortunately misplaced. Sorry Ken.

Again SBW had no official representation at what was obviously a very successful, enjoyable and otherwise very well-patronized event.

A fuller report with accompanying photos appears in the August issue of the Confederation Bushwalker and on the Confederation Website at: www.bushwalking.org.au/ Click on the 'Navshield 2000' link.

Perhaps SBW members can ease themselves back into participation in such activities by attending the BWR Information and Training Weekend advised by Carol Lubbers on page 15.

Accreditation for ALL bushwalkers who wish to participate in recreational activities in NSW National Parks is a looming threat and now is the time for walkers to become more involved in Confederation activities. Ed.

The 2000 Emergency Services Navigation Shield event organised by Confederation's Bushwalkers Wilderness Rescue Group (BWR) was held on the weekend of July 1st and 2nd in an area, about three hours drive NW of Sydney, comprising Nullo Mountain State Forest, some of Wollemi National Park and some adjacent private properties, and it proved a very successful event.

The base site was on private property adjoining Wollemi National Park a few kilometres from the Dunn's Swamp camping area with one control situated above a cliff overlooking, and visible from, the base site.

The park in particular had areas of spectacular rock and pagoda formations and the forest area needing a variety of skills with steep rocky areas amongst feature-poor flat ground requiring fine navigation skills and extending up to high ground above Widden Brook.

Many participants enjoyed the country so much that they vowed to return with cameras.

A total of 116 teams, comprising over 420 participants from Bushwalking, Skiing and Rogaining clubs, the military and emergency services etc. from NSW, Victoria and the ACT, took part in the events.

No teams represented SBW.

The map used was the eastern part of CMA Olinda 1:25 000.

Although snow fell in the area only a couple of days before the event, the weather was perfect with clear days and nights although the nights were rather cold with moonlight being negligible with the moon setting about 7pm.

The main results are shown below.

The Sydney Bushwalker: First Edition July 1931 Official publication of The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc.