CANBERRA BUSH WALKING CLUB INC NEWSLE1TER

GPO Box 160, Canberra ACT 2601

VOLUME 31 JUNE 1995 NUMBER 6

PRESIDENT'S PRATTLE

In this edition of IT we have a repeat of the early history of our Club, written by Anton Cook. This covers some of the activities of CBC from 1947 to 1969. Is there a person reading this who would like to write an update, covering the last 25 years? If so, please contact me and we can see about access to all the walks records and past magazines for help.

As some people are, Club members responde4 to a rescue callout on a rescue exercise by the New South Wales Confederation of Bushwalkers on Wednesday 18 May It was to help carry out a woman who had brokeh her leg, somewhere near Nerriga. It is very pleasing to be able to report that within less than two hours from the 2.30am phone call the required eight, if a little sieepy, but fully equipped and ready to camp out bushwailcers were ready at the meeting spot. Thank you to David Campbell who organized the callout and to Bill Brown, David Cregan, Murray Dow, Paul Edstein, Adrian Purnell, Chris Roper and Paul Rustomji who chose to go.

[Ona sadder note,..] Dr David Gibson was killed on 18 May

when a tree fell on his car as he drove through Royal National Park. Davd was a Uni student in 1961, a founding CBC Cofnmittee member, and the only - person on the committee for all of the first three formative years. An

active walker, leader, and ski tourer, he continued these activities after moving to Sydney. Some members may remember him from the 30th. reunion in 1991.

Members are probably aware that many of the shops selling. outdoor gear will give 10% off the price. Please bring your IT with you, with the address label on, as verification of your membership.

The weekend before I'm writing this, we spent walking along to Watsons Crags and other areas of the High Plains. It was superb weather and the view stretched forever.

Happy walking! Janet Edstein P

WOODCHIPPING

The current issue of Sustainable Times, the newsletter of our Environment Centre and Conservation Council, carries a who's who of export woodchipping, naming all the companies involved in woodchipping our native forests and advising the boycotting of their products.

Australia exports five million tonnes of woodchips annually, equivalent to two million mature trees every year. Employment in export woodchipping mills accounts for only one per cent of jobs in the forest products industry, and in Tasmania over 4000 jobs have been lost in the forest industry since the advent of woodchipping.

For further information contact John Webster 2414646 or the Conservation Council 247 7808.

TASMANIA - MANAGEMENT OF WORLD HERITAGE WILDERNESS AREAS

A letter from the Director of the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service invites participation in a review of the management plan for Tasmania's wilderness World Heritage areas, which is to take place between May and September 1995. Anyone interested in contributing to a subn4ssion from the Club should contact the Conservation Officer, John Webster 241 4646.

BUSHDANCE FOR WILDERNESS - Saturday 22 July, 8pm

Join in the fun at The Wilderness Society's Bushdance for Tassie's Tarkine Wilderness.

Dance the night away with Celtic Band The Perfect Cure. Venue: St John's Ball in Reid. Tickets are on sale at The Wilderness Society Shop and Office. For more information phone 257 5122.

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

New Members: Christine O'Connor, Hughes; Bente Donehue, Belconnen; John Parke, Lyneham; Christopher Holland, Queanbeyan; Jenny Nelson, Page; Brendon Walters, Dickson; Peter Vallee, Aranda; Brett Harris, Garran; Jason Pangalos, Calwell. Pros pective New Members: Dave Hooper, Sandy Bay (TAS), Simon Munslow, Kaleen; Ron & Carol Hosking, Watson; Apryl & Geoff Hurling, Florey; Gerry Santosuosso, Murrumbateman; Sarah Kedge, Duffy; Mike Bremers, Richardson.

ADVERTISEMENT Free to a good home: I have a large number (over 300) of 51/4" double density 360K

(01

floppy disks I have no use for, can't bear to take to the tip (many were bought at $5 per disk!); don't want to give to a school etc as I can't be bothered first erasing them.

0

Also lots of 51/4" plastic boxes. If anyone can use some, or better yet, all of them, please contact me.

I also have lots of 5¼" high density 1.2MB floppies excess to requirements which I'm not yet ready to give away, but could be persuaded to sell chunks of very cheaply, particularly once I've disposed of the above!

Better yet, if anyone has 3 1h" 1.44MB disks they'd like to swap on a 1 to several basis for my 5 1/4" ones...

Alan Vidler 254 5373 (h+machine)

IWALKS SECRETARY'S WANDERINGS

Alan Vidler will be in the wilds of the Kimberleys from 6-30 July. The July IT Walks program will be finalized by him on 26 June (NO exceptions - so get in early please).

for the August IT program should be sent to Mike Fedvin. Absolute cut off date is 26 July, e contact him early as program preparation will take longer that month.

CBC IT June1995 page2

NEWS DESK An area discovered' (again?) a few years ago by the CBC is the Croajingolong National Park in Victoria adjoining the Nadgee Nature Reserve in NSW. Unfortunately, a lot of other people have also discovered it and the popular campsites, knee deep in firewood 4 years ago, are now becoming denuded. From next Christmas the Victorian NPWS will be introducing a permit and booking system with limits on party size, where and how long you can camp and mandatory use of fuel stoves. I suggest that CBC members start adopting 'good practice' in the park now:

• Use stoves, not firewood.

• Avoid popular times - Christmas, Easter and to a lesser extent, long weekends in Victoria (the park is much further from Melbourne than Canberra). We have several long weekends they don't, and for us ordinary weekend trips are feasible.

• Plan trips to have only one night per campsite.

Ring the Park headquarters at Mallacoota or Cairn River to check/book beforehand, including party sizes for the area you are visiting. -

Rene Lays hopes to provide a summary of contact details plus requirements for fees, party size limits, bookings and permits for Croajingolong NP, Nadgee NR and Ben Boyd NP in the next IT.

Alan Vidler

Lance Keogh reports that landholders of properties around Yadboro Rat have appealed to bushwalkers to keep to the hack along the bank of the river, always in sight of the Clyde.

The area concerned extends from the bridge on the Western Distributor immediately to the south of Yadboro Flat, northwards along the left (western) bank of the river to just past the house where you ford the river and continue northwards on the right bank. You follow the river as it turns east to immediately south of Pickering Point, the easternmost tip of Byangee Mountain.

Further eastwards the track appears to tUrn into a road across the river which heads up past Pickering Point. See sketch map.

Starting from 27 May, your editor has placed the Club's activities program on the Internet, through the newsgroup Aus/bushwalking. It is accessible either through Nuntius or through Netscape/World Wide Web/Outdoor recreation/Australian bushwallcing. I intend to update it regularly, and hope other bushwallcing clubs in Australia will follow suit.

People do read these things: I was highly gratified to receive a 'thank you - good idea' email from Allan Mikkelsen in Melbourne within hours of my posting the program, and after the weekend a similar email from Keith Thomas in the USA! A short time later - still another message from someone wanting to join the Club!

CBC IT June1995 page 3

A 62 year old woman witW an ankle broken on Tuesday was being carried out from Morton National Park. Because of continual overcast, wet conditions, a helicopter could not be used to lift her out. We, along with others, were to replace those who had gone in the pervious day. ShoaThaven Bushwallcing Club was the only other bushwallcing club to be contacted by the Confederation. We needed to be at the Nerriga pub at 0600 hrs.

Eight members of the CBC were called out: Bill Brown,.David Campbell, David Cregan, Murray Dow, Paul Edstein, Adrian Purnell, Chris Roper and Paul Rustomji. The members gathered. at Dickson shopping centre car park by 0415 hrs. Leaving by 0430 hrs we travelled via Braidwood to Nerriga pub, arriving by 0620. Local police, police rescue squad, emergency services, country fire fighting, and five Shoalhaven Bushwalking Club personnel, plus Steve Irwin, convpittee member of Confederation Wilderness Rescue, met at the pub.

Briefing from S&R coordinator Sergeant Byers: Injured woman and support party at Styles creek (Endrick 433984). Members of the rescue party were warned to be careful what they said within hearing range of the injured woman. The first point of establishment was to be the base camp on 4WD track north at the Vines (Endrick 460016). We would look at how to get the injured woman out from here.

We drove east into Morton National Parks via 4WD track one kilometre south of Nerriga pub. Took lower of the two tracks and drove on through second gate to creek crossing. Backwash from flooded Endrick river made creek impassable by vehicle or foot at crossing. Following advice of Steve Irwin of Confederation S&R committee, we walked a short distance up creek and literally stepped across. We proceeded by foot to Sallee Creek, but were unable to find a suitable ,crossing upstream. Small party of ten, using short length of rope and the tall solid Constable First Class Andrew Burden as a midstream rope hold, crossed Sallee Creek.. CBC party included Davids, Adrian, senior constable Emmanual Veczosa as OIC, a first aid officer, three volunteer fire fighters/SES personel and a Shoalhaven Bushwalking Cub member. At next creek crossing we were met by two emergency services vehicles and driven into base camp.

S & R CALLOUT, 18 MAY 1995

The contact call from John Tonitto was received by David Campbell at 0140 hrs on Thursday 18 May.

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We were welcomed at the base camp with hot cups of tea prepared by SES personnel. The police went back to bring in more people, including CEC's Paul E and Bill. Base camp included Allan and Paul from Ulladulla andMilton National Parks and Wildlife. We had just missed Richard Green from our Monolith Valley work weekends.

Having arrived, we found it was now a case of standing around and waiting. Insufficient gear was preventing progression of plans to rescue the injured walker. Conditions continued to be cold and wet. Lack of food and warm clothing were a concern. Mid afternoon and the weather lifted sufficiently to allow the Westpac helicopter to lift the injured walker and support party out.

Apocalypse now, as a big dark machine with lights glaring hovered in the sky. The overpowering whooping noise and crashing of branches and of our meagre tent cover made a spectacle under a darkening sky and after a long day. The RAN sea king helicopter twice came to winch a total 14 victims into its belly from the base camp. Lack of light and encroaching wet conditions prevented the remaining ten from being lifted out.

Bill was the only member of the CEC party to be winched out The remaining four CBC members stayed, as we were better equipped and in a better position to walk out if need be. Paul R and Murray, who had volunteered to keep the camp fires burning at the Running Creek crossing, were picked up by the RAN helicopter which, spotting theft fire, landed nearby. I understand the RAN crew were disappointed as they were expecting a cup of tea!

Comments

Generally CEC people were comfortable with the conditions. This was in part due to their possession and use of appropriate equipment as well as of their prior experience in similar conditions. -

CBC personnel were in the position to supply additional food and clothing to other personnel in the rescue party.

I appreciate Sergeant Byers' concern with getting his people out once the injured walker was out.

Lessons

Always retain all walking equipment. Our equipment complements what we are able to give to a search and rescue. The availability of such equipment means we are self contained in the bush and are less likely to put undue stress on the rest of the party, as well as being better able to assist

- others and being better able to meet search and rescue needs;

• Warm change of clothing and full warm leg cover is important for such exercises, as a lot of time can be spent standing around in cold wet conditions;

As possible, keep our people together or in self support groups; and

Increasingly, we will be required to work with a variety of other parties who bring different philosophies, skills and equipment to search and rescue. Where possible, we need to learn how best to constructively fit in with this complex and changing environment.

David Campbell

BUDAWANGS SEARCH AND RESCUE

2 am, just after the monthly meeting, phone call from David - something about search and rescue. I know you were talking about it last night, but this is not the time .to discuss it further. Oh, there actually is a search and rescue, need to carry out someone with a broken ankle in the Budawangs, meeting at 6 am. I get packed and back to bed ready to leave early morning. 3.50 am, another call,

CBC IT June1995 page5

meeting in Dickson at 4 so that we can be at Nerriga by 6 for the meeting there. Somehow eight of us arrive there, pile into two Subarus and off to Nerriga.

Problem, the woman has broken ankle and can't walk out, helicopter can't go in because of low cloud and rain. Answer, we will be driven into roadhead and then walk in and carry her out on stretcher. Need plenty of people because of the rough going with the stretcher. We should travel light, so leave camping gear in car at Nerriga. -

Off we go in the police landcruisers. A couple of km down the road we find the Endrick River has flooded the road. Water has risen considerably overnight. Revise plans, walk in from here. With a short section of scrub bashing we get around the flooded section but a few km further on we find a truly flooded side creek. No way around this one. A few large, bravb individuals manage to wade through and get to the base camp for help. The rest of us wait in rain for an hour or so watching the stream continue to rise until the others come back with car and rope. Some more of us get across with the rope and continue through deep mud, and creek crossings in a landcruiser to the base.

Next problem, there are now three torrents that we will need to cairy the woman across. Someone heads back to get equipment for flying foxes while we try to dry out under the tarpaulins; After a while we get the message that despite continuing rain the helicopter did manage to .get in and lift her out. Great, but how do we get out now that floodwaters have risen even further. Then we hear that the helicopter will be able to lift us out. It soon arrives, blows over the tarps and half a dozen get winched out Two more trips, on the third, I get winched up. About 100 metres hanging from a cable (the others tell me that's an exaggeration but it doesn't seem like it). As it turns out I was the last out - four other CBC members are stranded. I leave my car for the others, and go home with Murray, wet, tired, but certainly a change from the office or a normal bushwalk. The other CBC members managed to get out late that night with a combination of landcruisers and wading flooded creeks.

A few lessons: don't break an ankle in the Budawangs, ignore 2 am phone calls, be prepared to stay out overnight even when you are told otherwise, be aware how adverse weather can really complicate things and, despite all do take part in an S & R caliout.

Bill Brown P

PREVIEW:

MYSTERY SKI DAY TRIPS— M/M

15 July, 29 July, 2 September, 16 September

Leader Monika Binder 247 6866 (It)

We are looking for skiers interested in doing day trips over the ski season. Possible tours include Deadhorse Gap to Mt Kosciusko; Perisher to Charlottes Pass (and up Mt Stilwell); Mt Tabletop; Guthega to Mt Twynam; Guthega to Mt Tate; or whatever. All our trips will be between 12 and 20 km long and/or of at least medium difficulty. We will choose a trip that is best suited to snow and weather conditions at the time. Skiers should be able to do such XC skiing basics such as the traverse 180 degree turn, snow plow, and step turn.

Leaders will be Roger Green or Monika Binder - 247 6866 (h). Transport cost: about $25 plus park entry charge (this may change if we use the ski tube). Maps: Mount Kosciusko 1:50 000, Khancoban 7:50 000, or Thredbo 1:50 000.

WEEKEND TRIPS: GOURMET SKI TRIPS FOR WOULD-BE TELEMARKERS

22-23 July - Mt Tate 26-27 August - Mt Twynam

For details see the Activities Program. CBC IT June1995 pageS

ACTIVITY PROGRAM GRADING OF WALKS:

(5) Short - under 12km1day; (M) Medium - 12-20km1day; (L) Long - over 20km1day.

(E) Easy - llretrail, tracks, beaches etc; (M) Medium - bush tracks, alpine areas, some scrub; (R) Rough - much scrub, steep dllmbs, rock scrambles; (149 Wet - compulsory swims, many river crossings

NOTE: In calculating distance 1 km is added for every 100 m. climbed.

TRANSPORT: Costs are presently 25 cents a kilometre per car, dMded equally among ALL participants. This amount is a guide only and can be varied at the discretion of the leader depending on the condition of the roads, the number of passengers per car and other factors. The figures given for indMdual trips are rough estimates only, based on four people per car, and other factors - costs may rise if cars are only partly filled. Park admission and camping fees are additional costs which leaders should fist separately. Members are reminded that bookings normally close at 2pm on Thursday.

NOTICE TO ALL WALKERS: Every person taking part in a Club activity does so as a volunteer in all respects and accepts responsibility for any injury or loss personally incurred.

The leader should check with you that you are capable of completing the proposed trip - by assessing this from observation on previous walks or by asking where, when and with whom you have walked previously. Your leader should also check that you are aware of what the trip entails and of any special equipment or skills needed. Leaders may reject any applicants they think are not suitable for the trip.

SEARCH & RESCUE ORGANIZATION

S&R Contacts: David Campbell 2 722025(w) 2541511(h), or the President or the Walks Secretary. Area Coordinators: Belconnen - Pat Miethke 2493085(w) 2412798(h), Woden - Doug Wright 2814148(h).

CHECK-IN / CONTACT OFFICER

The Check-in / Contact Officer for the dub is Michael Pedvin 288 5751(h), 277 51 77(w). He (not the Pofice or other bodies) should be the first point of contact for worried relatives if you are late in returning from a trip. Leaders must also report the safe return OR cancellation of their trip to the Check-in officer. -

Saturday 17 June - Captains Flat Railway track - SIE From Hoskinstown follow the old railway track via a variety of interesting cuttings; forest and farmland. Very flat walking! Return will be either via country back roads, or a car shuffle. Map: Hoskinstown 1:25000. Leader: John Kyatt 238 2517(h) 216 1397(w). Transport cost about $5.

Sunday 18 June - Booroomba Rocks circuit - SIR Follow the rock-climbers' tracks around Booroomba to the northern end, down around North buttress then some rock scrambling up the descent gully and finish over to the summit of the rocks - the ACT's Uluru. Joint walk with NPA. Map: Corin Dam 1:25000. Leader: Murray Dow 257 4371(h). Transport cost about $8.

Sunday 18 June - Indian Head Mountain - M/M - George Carter This walk is near Yankees Creek, north of the famous Bemboka pie shop. Climb a rocky ridge up Pigeon Box, thence to Indian IIead Mountain. This regular trip of George's provides spectacular views in all directions including into the Wadbilliga wilderness area. Early booking desirable as this trip is always popular. Map: Yankees Gap 1:25000. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h) 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $25.

Wednesday 21 June - MONTHLY MEETING - 8pm at Dickson Library Andy MacQueen on Barraffler the explorer. (See article on page 5 of the January 1995 fT.)

Saturday 24 June - Nursery Swamp from Orroral Valley - SIE This trip starts at the cattle grid in Orroral Valley, climbs the hill to upper Nursery Creek, then follows the creek to Nursery Swamp. Wildlife of many types abounds. The trip is entirely on a marked, signposted track, although many optional extensions are possible. Suitable for beginners. Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25000. Leader: Rob Forster

249 8546(h. Transport cost about $8.

24-25 June - Booth Hill - SMIM I prefer to spend the weekend in the bush for solstice celebrating - also a tradition. This trip essentially will combine (easier) pieces of the following day trips (copy one = plagiarism, copy several = research) and camp in the vicinity of,

CBC IT June1995 page7

but not at, the hut. After a festive and maybe cold evening, join the others for Sunday celebrations. Maps: Michelago

and Colinton 1:25000. Leader: Alan Vidler 254 5373 (h+machine). Transport cost about $8.

Sunday 25 June - Booth Hill - M/M Early start from the locked gate at the Gudgenby River for the steep climb to Booths Hill with seven false summits along the way. After a short stop to take in the views of the Clear Range and the Tinderries to the east and the Gudgenby Divide to the west, we'll sprint down the hill to join the solstice feasters at Brandy Flat. Maps: Michelago and Colinton 1:25000. Leader: Terence Uren 269 5422 (w) 282 2403(h). Transport cost about $8.

Sunday 25 June - Winter Solstice - Brandy Flat Hut - WE This is a traditional CBC walk - at a new location, for a change. We'll leave the cars at Glendale Depot and walk the 7km to Brandy Flat Hut in Nainadgi National Park. Please bring goodies to cook and share and to help celebrate the mid-point of winter. In the past, people have brought woks, fondues, and plum puddings, all washed down with wine. A good social occasion. Consider bringing a fuel stove to help cook. Map: Michelago 1:25000, ACT 1:100000.

Leaders: Janet and Paul Edstein 205 8033 (Janet - w), 288 1398 (Ii). Transport cost about $8. a Wednesday 28 June - COMMITTEE MEETING and IT CLOSING

At the home of John Webster, 22 Tambo Street Kaleen - 2414646 (h) at 8pm

1-16 July (15 Days) - Hume and Hovell Track - MLJEM Following Harxy Hill's guidebook from Wee Jasper to Samuel Bullard Trackhead at Woomargania. Leader: Rob Horsfield 231 4535(h). Maps: 1:100000 - Brindabella, Tumut, Yarrangobilly and Rosewood; 1:25000 - Couragago, Bobbys Plains, Lacmalac, Blowering, Batlow, Talbingo, Yarrangobilly, Courabyra, Tumbarumba, Munderoo, Lankeys Creek, Narra Narra. Transpott costs: to be negotiated. People wanting to do part(s) of the trip are welcome - negotiate dates and transport details with Rob.

Saturday 1 July - Murramarang Beach walk - SIE A pleasant coastal walk north of Batemans Bay. Start from Pebbly Beach, over Durras Mountain, with views of the Budawangs, to Pretty Beach. Return via secluded beaches. A lovely walk even in winter. Map: Kioloa 1:25000.

Leader: Ian Sinclair 254 7034(h) 216 2243(w). Transport cost about $20.

Saturday 1 July - Mt Narrangullen - SM/M The northernmost point of the Brindabellas, with views from the roofs of Yass to Black Mountain Tower. A ramble through first thy, then moister snowguni forest from Sawyers Creek Road to Narrangullen, then southeast along the top of the range. A little known but pleasant area for walking in winter when the higher areas can be too cold; and not too far from Canberra when the days are short. Map: Brindabella 1:100 000. Leader: David Truman 247 6744 (1,) 272 4632

(w). Transport cost about $11.

Sunday 2 July - Come Falls - MIM The only time I ever went to the Falls, it was raining so hard we couldn't see the bottom, but it looked an awful long way down. This will be a shortish winter day trip, close to Canberra. The exact distance and route will depend on the weather on the day. Map: Cotter Dam 1:25000. Leader: Pat Miethke 241 2798(h). Transport cost about $10.

Sunday 2 July - Mt Gudgenby - LIR Mt Gudgenby is the mountain to climb! It is a spectacular granite-capped 1739m peak in the southern ACT, offering panoramic views of the other ACT peaks, the Tinderries and as far as Jagungal in the Kosciusko National Park. We will walk through the Boboyan Pine Forest and follow a ridge leading to the sununit. Return probably the same way - not bushbahing through the melaleuca scrub we endured last time! Map: Yaouk 1:25 000 and ACT 1:100 000. Leaders: Janet and Paul Edstein 2714514 (Paul-w), 288 1398(h). Transport cost about $10.

Saturday 8 July - Tallowa Lookout - S/M(R?) From Wingello State Forest we will walk to a scenic clifflop lookout high above the junction of Bundanoon Creek and Tallowa Gully. Some of the walk is on a fire trail, but there are a few kilometres of forest and scrub as well. Maps: Wingello and Bundanoon 1:25000, or (much less detailed) Moss Vale 1:100000. Leader: Jeff Bennetts 231 5899(h). Transport cost about $16.

8-9 July - Far Western Budawangs - M/M (I don't like RB's descriptions of some of my favourite areas; I do like his walks; let those who lead more traps cast the first money at the piper. - A V). Visit the famous Nerriga Pub and shop. Do some walking on flat ground with small hills. Visit places such as Flat Top Mountain, Castle Hill, Square Top Mountain and Fosters Mountain. Map: CMW Budawangs. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w) 257 4816(h). Transport cost about $20.

CBC IT June 1995 pagea

Sunday 9 July - Booroomba Rocks - SIE This walk is for those who would like to visit Booroomba Rocks the easy way - by the trail to the sununit. With its spectacular cliff's and views, the area is well worth a visit. Suitable for beginners: a /2 thy walk with lunch at the sununit. Map: Corin Dam 1:25000. Leader: Gerald Dodgson 249 6690(h) 263 3089(w). Transport cost about $8.

Sunday 9 July - Ski Tour- Mt Selwyn XCD - M/E Not a trip for the purists. Morning will be spent on the groomed downhill slopes polishing your snowplows or telemarks and gaining some early season confidence. Afternoon will be a short trip to Three Mile Dam and/or a stride along the Kings Cross trail. Suitable for all standards of skier provided you're able to ride the tows in your cross country skis and are confident to mix it with the (Mt Selwyn-A V) downhillers. Maps: Mt Selwyn Ski Touring 1:25000 or KhancobaA 1:50000. Leader: Terence Uren 269 5422(w) 282 2403(h). Transport cost about $25, plus park entry/lilt ticket.

Wednesday 11 July - IT COLLATION, 8pm. Henry Burmester's home, 29 Quandong Street O'Connor 247 0193.

Saturday 15 July - Tinderries - SIR Start at (JR 050421, walk across the top of the range until lunch, before returning to cars. Excellent views, plenty of rock and short sections of thick scrub. (A chance to renew acquaintance with the Phantom, who is coming from Cairns just to lead this trip, as it was so popular last year.) Map: Tinderry 1:25000. Leader: Nick Clarke, but bookings to Michael Pedvin 288 5751(h) 277 5409(w). Transport cost about $10. Limit 8.

Saturday 15 July - Ski Tour - mystery destination - MIM See preview on page 6 You must be able to do crosscountry skiing basics such as the traverse 180 degree turn, snowplough and steep turn. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (Ii). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

(14)15-16 July - Royal National Park - MIE This sandstone country is fill of flowers in winter, and not cold. On thy 1 we'll walk the coastal track (recently reopened after the January 1994 fires) from Otford to Wattamolla. Bring 2L of water and swimmers (it might just be wann). We can either camp in the park or stay overnight in Sydney. Day 2 will be either a shortish ramble in Heathcote National Park (Kingfisher Pool, part of Bullawarring Track) or a 15 km E-M walk from Waterfall via Uloola Falls and Tuckowa Rill to Engadine. Map: Royal National Park. Leader: David Truman 247 6744 (1), 272 4632 (w). Transport cost about $40.

Sunday 16 July - Nursery Hill & Rendezvous Creek From Gudgenby Homestead - M/M I have found an interesting route to Nursery Hill from the SE with spectacular views and drop formations. Early in the descent we pass through.an area of giant granite boulders, then branch down a ridge to Rendezvous Creek 400m below. The return is a stroll down the open lower valley with views of the surrounding mountains, while being watched by a thousand curious kangaroos. Map: Rendezvous Creek 1:25000. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h) 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $8. Limit 12.

Wednesday 19 July - MONTHLY MEETING, 8pm at Dickson Library meeting room. Andina Faragher on Walking in Pakistan.

22-23 July - Reedy Creek - MIE-M From Mt Clear campsite, climb Shanahans Mountain for good views of the Clear Range, then descend to Reedy Creek for a football field size campsite. Return to the cars va Naas Fire trail or sections of Naas Creek. Map: Colinton 1:25 000. Leader: Richard Ba/n 265 5222(w) 2574816(h). Transport cost about $10.

22-23 July - Ski Tour: north from the Snowy Mountains Highway - MIM Depending on snow cover the objective could be Nungar Plain, Wild Horse Plain or further north. The trip is suitable for less experienced tourers but a weekend pack must be carried and snow camping will be required. Limit 2 cars. Maps: Tantangara 1:50,000 or 1:25000. Leader: Rod Peters 251 2580 (h only). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

22-23 July - Ski Tour Mt Tate - for Gourmet would-be Telemarkers, No.1 - M/M This is a trip for skiers who have mastered the fundamentals of skiing with a pack, but would like to practise their XC downhill ski technique and have fun. We will base camp at the upper Guthega River within sight of Consett Stephen Pass and below Mt Tate. I would like to climb up Mt Tate and explore the slopes and gullies off the Tate Ridge. You don't need to be a telemarker, but an ability to do stem christies would be an advantage. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (Ii). Map: Mount Kosciusko 1:50000. Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

Sunday 23 July - Ski Tour: Dingo Loop - Paddy's Link- Porcupine - MIE A gently undulating tour on formed trails with friendly slopes, aimed at relative (but not absolute) beginners. Starting from the Perisher Nordic Centre, we'll meander up towards Duncan Trig for lunch, returning via Betts Camp and Perisher

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Gap. Maps: Perisher Ski Touring Map 1:25000 or Mt Kosciusko 1:50000. Leader: Terence Uren 2695422(w) 282 2403(h). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fees.

Sunday 23 July - Blue Range Hut and Mt Blundell - S/M Start mid-morning when the sun has got a bit of warmth into the day. Follow tracks (although some are a bit rough) to the summit of Mount Blundell where there is a modest view. We should be back at the hut in time for a billy with afternoon tea - bring a stove if you can as it is quicker than lighting a fire. Leader: Keith Sayers 258 3268(w). Transport cost about $10.

Wednesday 26 July - COMIWTTEE MEETING and IT CLOSING

At David Truman's - 79 'The Pines', Murdoch St Lyneham 247 6744.

Saturday 29 July - Ski Trip to mystery destination - M/M See preview on page 6 You must be able to do crosscountry skiing basics such as the traverse 180 degree turn,

snowplough and steep turn. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (Ii). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

29-30 July - Carkeneller Ridge and Colong Caves - M/M From Bats Camp, down Carkeneller Ridge to the Kownrnng to camp at the junction with the tJni-Rover Trail. On Sunday we will walk up Lannigan Creek to Colong Caves and thence Bats Camp. A spectacular area that does not seem to have been visited much lately. Map: Yerranderie and Bindook 1:25000. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w), 257 4816(h). Transport cost about $35.

2940 July - Ski Tour: Valentine's Hut M/M The easiest route to Valentine's Hut is from the power station along the road through Schlink Pass. Whether this route or an alternative - the Kenies for example - is followed either way will depend on weather and the party. Valentine's is a very small and popular hut, so tents and stoves are essential. Map: Mt Kosciusko 1:50000. Leader: David Campbell 254 1511(h). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fees.

Saturday 5 August - Over the Tidbinbillas: Bendora Dam to Mt Domain & Fishing Gap - M/R A car swap, so I'm looking for a leader in the opposite direction. We'll follow a long but not difficult ridge from near Bendora Dam to the top of the Tidbinbilla Range, detour northwards to the top of Tidbinbilla Mountain (time pennitting), then exit by Mt Domain and Fishing Gap. (If no car swap, we'll start and end at Bendora Dam.) Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25 000. Leader: David Truman 247 6744 (h) 2724632(w). Transport cost about $11.

5-6 August - Ski Tour: Tabletop and beyond - M/M We'll start from Mt Selwyn and take the well known and scenic route, gently undulating, to camp at far end of Tabletop. Side trips up Tabletop and perhaps towards Brooks Hut. Snow camping is involved, and significant skiing with a pack, suitable for inexperienced but not novice skiers - you should have skied and carried a pack before, but not necessarily together. Note: Subject to re-routing if snow conditions require. Maps: Various. Leader: Alan Vidler 2545373(h) - but not between 6-30 July while I'm away. Some bookings already received! Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fees.

Sunday 6 August - Naas Creek - M-L/E Start from Boboyan Pine Forest and walk to Naas Creek via Gudenby Saddle. Walk down Naas creek, returning by the Old Boboyan Road. Map: ACT 1:100 000. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w) 257 4816(h). Transport cost about $10.

Tuesday 8 August - IT COLLATION - Venue TBA.

Saturday 12 August - Ski Tour - Thompsons Plain - M/M A tour along the northeastern end of the Ramshead Range from Dain&s Gap to Prussian Flat via Thompsons Plain. Skiing will mostly be on open gently undulating slopes but some manoeuvring through treed areas will be needed. More uphill than downhill (How can this be? - Prof A VJ. For intermediate standard skiers Maps: Perisher Ski Touring Map 1:25000 or Mt Kosciusko 1:50000. Leader: Terence Uren 269 5422(w) 2822403(h). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fees. Limit of S.

12-13 August - Ski Tour: Chimneys, Paradise, Purgatory - M/M We will start from Dead Horse Gap, ski about 4km to an idyllic campsite, then undertake a side trip to the Chimneys. On Sunday there will be a side trip to Purgatory and perhaps the slightly harder one to reach Paradise. Suitable for inexperienced skiers - you should have skied and carried a pack before, though not necessarily together. Note: Like all ski tours, this is subject to re-routing if snow conditions indicate. Maps: Thredbo 1:50000. Leader: Alan Vidler 254 53 73(h). Transport about $25 plus park entry fees.

Sunday 13 August - The Pimple - M/M The Pimple is a feature on the northwestern side of the range between Tidbinbilla Peak and Tidbinbilla Mountain.. Great views over the Cotter Valley and the Brindabellas. Map: Tidbinbilla 1:25 000. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h) 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $6. NOTE: An alternative is Ben Boyd/Boumda NP weekend.

Wednesday 16 August - MONTHLY MEETING - Dickson Library meeting Room at 8pm. [Speaker on Nat Parks in SE NSW'?J

19-20 August - Ski Tour: The Rolling Grounds - M/M We'll start from Guthega Power Station (Munyang), ski up the road to the saddle and keep going up. Camp about lunchtime then make a side trip to Consett Stephen Pass and Tate West Ridge, with a spin along the Rolling Ground on Sunday. Suitable for limited experience-intermediate skiers, but beginners would find the steepish tree covered slopes daunting. Map: Mt. Kosciusko 1:50000. Leader: Alan Vidler 254 5373(h). Transport cost about $25 plus park fees.

C8C IT June1995 pagelo

Saturday 26 August - Hospital Hill and Mt Boboyan - M/M Start from the locked gate at Boboyan Pine Forestand head southeast across Hospital Creek and over Hospital Hill along the ridgetop to Mt Boboyan (1459m) for luncit Continue southwest to the highest point on the Old Boboyan Road, then follow it north back to the cars. Leaden David Truman 247 6744 (h) 272 4632 (w). Transport cost about $12.

26-27 August - Ski Tour: Mt Twynam - for Gourmet would-be Telemarkers, No.2 - S/M This is another trip for skiers interested in XC downhill skiing. We will ski easily along the Snowy River to a base camp at Pounds Creek. If the weather is good, I would like to go up to Mt Twynam or even further (Blue Lake?) and then enjoy the downhill run back to camp. There will also be opportunities for those not so energetically inclined to practise their XC downhill skills on nearby slopes. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (Ii). Map: Mount Kosciusko 1: 50 000. Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

Sunday 27 August - Rendezvous Creek - MIE-M Proceed from Nursery Swamp Car Park to Nursery Swamp, then down Rendezvous Creek to the Boboyan Road. Map: ACT 1:100 000. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w), 257 4816(h). Transport cost about $8.

Saturday 2 September - Ski Trip to mystery destination - M/M See preview on page 6. You must be able to do crosscountzy skiing basics such as the traverse 180 degree turn, snowplough and steep turn. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (h). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

(1) 2-3 September - Green Cape to Red Point (Ben Boyd NP) - MIME Probably camping overnight Friday at Myrtle Mountain (south of Candelo), on Saturday we'll walk/scrub-bash from Green Cape Lighthouse northwards along the coast to Bittangabee and then continue by the track to the excellent camp spot at Saltwater Creek. Sunday we'll walk north past Mowarry Point to Red Point. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w) 257 4816(h). Maps: Kiak and Eden 1:25 000; Eden State Forests. Transport cost about $40.

9-10 September - Mt Talaterang photography trip - M/M Details later. Map: CMW Budawangs. Leader: George Carter 251 2130(h) 263 3549(w). Transport cost about $25.

9-10 September - Mt Hoddle - M/M Details later. Leader: Richard Bain 265 5222(w), 2574816(h). Transport cost about $20.

Saturday 16 September - Ski Trip to mystery destination - M/M See preview on page 6. You must be able to do crosscountry skiing basics such as the traverse 180 degree turn, snowplough and steep turn. Leader: Monika Binder 247 6866 (11). Transport cost about $25 plus park entry fee.

15-17 September (3 days) - Wog Wog - Yadboro car swap with Family Bushwalkers - M/M Details TBA. Leader: Kevin Gill 2861946(h).

16-17 September - Deua NP: Wyanbene Caves Mountain, Big Hole and Marble Arch - M/M We'll walk from the Krawarree Road, across the Shoalhaven to the Minuma Range and follow it north to Wyanbene Caves Mountain before descending to the beutithl car camping site among tall trees at the caves area. Bring decadent goodies and plenty of water to take advantage of the car camp. Next day we'll inspect some of the interesting highlights of the northern sectionof Deua NP. Trip Is suitable for novice campers. Leader: David Truman 247 6744 (h) 2724632(w). Transport cost about $20.

23-24 September - Flat Top Mountain, Castle Hill, Fosters Mountain, Round Mountain - MIM Access via Nerriga. A circuit in the north-western Budawangs, mainly on trails but with some scrub and easy rock scrambles up a variety of small peaks. There should be a good display of spring wildflowers .1 plan to camp on Saturday night in a cave on the western side of Fosters Mountain, and to walk on the tops to the south-eastern end without packs on Sunday morning. Maps: CMVI Budawangs orEndrick 1:25000. Leaden JeffBennetts 231 5899(h). Transport cost about $20.

Spring - Tin Hut via Disappointment Spur & Finns River - M/M - Marg & John Cooper

14-15 October - The Long Flat and Mt Clear - M/M - David Truman 14-15 October - Mts Sea bby, Kelly and Burbidge - M/R - George Carter 2 1-22 October - Mount Eagle - M/M - Roger Edwards 21-22 October - Ramshead Range - M/E - Richard Bain 28-2 9 October - Murruim Creek - M/MR - Richard Bain

Saturday 4 November - Mt Yaouk - M/M - David Truman Sunday S November - Starlights Trail - MM - Richard Bain 11-12 November - Mt Bimberi,, Cave Creek, Cooleman - L/R - George Carter

December - Peppercorn HilL1Creek, Tabletop Mt car camp - M/E-M - David Truman December - Micalong Swamp Nature Reserve and Micalong Creek - David Truman

January - Consett Steven Pass and Mt Tate - MM - David Truman February - Eurema Day Trip - S/R - Alan Vidler, or someone

CBC IT June 1995 page 11

WALKS SECRETARY'S WAFFLE

Last month I said I'd write about the relative roles of leaders and non-leaders. Some years ago I published a 12 page document in IT describing the leader's role - see me if you want a copy. I hope I'll get time to produce a summary for next IT, but this month I'll express/ re-express some opinions on the role of other party members. There are more of them; they on average are less experienced than leaders and, in the hope of prompting heated reaction for next month, I think they generally do not do their job as well as leaders generally do. For most of the following points I could name names, but won't. If the cap fits....

• Book early for the walk [subject always to other requests from the leader]. Too early risks confusion to leaders with several trips on the program; top late and the trip may be full, or - extremely annoyingly to the leader - cancelled due to insuffièient walkers.

If talking to a machine, leave sufficient detail - suburb, transport needs - so that the leader may be able to save a phone call by not ringing back until transport is arranged.

• Once you are booked, regard it as a binding commitment. Circumstances change, but it is very frustrating to organize transport etc then discover someone has decided to watch a movie instead - particularly if you have had to reject potential walkers because the trip is fully booked, or take half empty cars at extra cost to all, as it's too late to reshuffle.

Offer to provide transport if you can, but avoid insisting on using your own (it's cheaper to be a passenger). Transport arrangements can be difficult enough, without trying to observe multitudinous constraints.

Be ready on time. It is impolite to keep of people waiting, and it plays havoc with carefully planned schedules.

Comply with requests to eat/not eat before starting. The rest of the party wants neither the delay while you eat a full meal in Cooma nor your whingeing if you can't.

Do your homework before the trip. You deserve, and hopefully get, little sympathy when complaining about a steep climb or a wet river crossing which was described in the preview, or is obvious from looking at the map.

Respect your driver's car, and bring a change of clothes to avoid muddying it on the way home. The program relies on having adequate people willing to bring their cars.

Stick with the party. IE you must leave it, make sure someone, preferably the leader, knows, and check in when you roin. Most annoying are those who rush on ahead. Least annoying are those who drop behind, but do try to keep up.

Keep tabs on people behind you. If you lose touch with them it is your fault. Think about it. You can always slow down. They may not be able to speed up. Keeping in touch with people in front is their problem.

If you're an expert and the leader isn't, try to help without hijacking the trip (do I hear "hear, hear" in multiple voices?).

Offer suggestions if appropriate, but gracefully abide by decisions of the leader and/or the group. Several members seem to disagree on principle. If you must do your own thing, walk on your own - or lead atrip:

Help with communal activities such as lighting fires, fetching water, shared carrying of ropes/booze, etc.

Help newcomers and others who need help - and we all need help at times.

• Don't abuse leaders for things they can't control - or can other leaders really control the weather?

Offer to write trip reports. Help with other Club activities. Come to IT Collation. Host an IT Collation.

Lead some trips yourself. It's not hard, and despite points herein, it does have its rewards. CBC IT June 1995 page 12

if you have a problem with a leader raise it with him or her, publicly or privately as appropriate. This is usually much more productive (and fairer) than complaining to committee members or third parties. If after this you are still unhappy, by all means contact the Walks Sec, or the President, if the Walks Sec is the problem!

Assist and thank the leader. Remember trip leaders [and committee members] are unpaid volunteers. If leaders are given too hard a time they can simply stop leading - as many once active leaders have.

Similarly, remember that, apart from transport, the trip is free. If you want a fully serviced outing with reverent leaders/servants, pay your money for a commercial trip.

Finally, as a long-time many-capped leader (who has been watching rugby union lately), I emphasize that trip leading is generally enjoyable. Most problems are not common - and, incidentally, newcomers typically are not the offenders. We get our rewards from variOus aspects ranging through sense of duty, abffity and motivation to go where we want when we want, ego tripping, adulation of members, especially of the opposite sex, experience and confidence gained applied to paying activities... We'd all like fewer problems, but I suspect that if they never occurred, most leaders would become somewhat bored!

For next month I invite comments, anonymously if you like, on things you'd like leaders, and the Walks Sec, to do diffeently. [If it's "more walks of type x", I assume you'll attach a list of those you'll lead or have persuaded others to lead.]. Let's face it, after 24 years and lots of trips led, my perceptions are likely to be a bit different to those of most newcomers.

Alan Vidler

COOROONGOOBA CREEK FROM GLEN DAVIS (Wollemi NP) - Easter 1995

Party: Rod Peters, Chris Sinkora, Doug Floyd (Canberra) and Jenni Axtell, Steve Rouse, Yvonne and Warren Betts and Ken Harris. (Newcastle)

From a 7.20 am departure we arrived at Glen Davis at 2 pm after a slowish trip over the mountains in showers and mist past Oberon. The night was still drizzly but OK for just a fly. We woke in the beautiful Capertee Valley with the clifftops shrouded in mist and trather subdued bird song. After a comfortable breakfast and hot shower we were away by 8.30.

An easy walk up the creek and over the boulder jam saw us at the start of Happy Valley canyon (CR453344) by 11 am. This is a pleasant hale canyon: just enough water to drink without walking through the stuff (well Ken didn!t get his feet wet). Water-worn sculptured cliffs, pleasing vegetation, delightful bird calls. As we wandered upstream we checked out all the side canyons, some nice and narrow but only fairly short, none deep enough to suggest interesting abseils. We found the cairn marking the exit at about 1.30, but continued on. I expected a spectacular canyon but it never quite eventuated;

the system opened out into a pleasant creek with good vegetation. One short side canyon was quite interesting, with a contorted waterfall at the end (probably the one that turned us back at Easter two years ago).

Out on top by 3.30, we had good views and easy walking, but were running a bit behind time. We decided not to do the planned exploration of the creek system to get to the camping cave, because of the late hour, the obvious lack of water on the plateau and the probable ruggedness of that way. Even so, at 4 pm we were confronted by cliffs not even hinted at on the map. Fortunately we found a way down using the rope as a guide. We walked on to a cave with interesting hand prints; I've never seen Aboriginal prints with deformities anywhere else.

Unfortunately we found no sign of water (apart from a fine drizzle that had just started). We decided to push on to the camping cave where I

CBC IT June 1995 page 13

expected water, though I couldn't guarantee it. We arrived after last light, but still not finding any water, we prepared for a dry camp. I knew that there would be water half an hour downstream in a wet canyon, but I don't care to blunder around cliffs in the dark unless absolutely necessary. Jenni and Chris spent about three quarters of an hour collecting water by shaking the vegetation onto ground sheets - about a quarter of a cup each of grey soupy looking liquid. Luckily Jenni then found some drips at the back of the camping cave, which yielded full containers by morning. Those with fresh food ate well or shared: cooking dehyds would have been a little difficult! In the morning Yvonne, feeling a little thirsty, walked back upstream and found water only 50 metres back up a short re-entrant.

After a pleasant night in the big overhang, we set off by 8.30 through the damp vegetation. We soon found the start of the wet canyon at the base of a short waterfall. Rather than abseiling down the waterfall and then swimming we managed to find a way in further along. This is a very nice canyon: fairly easy to walk and well worth a visit. Ken and Steve swam and waded back to the first waterfall (then raved about its beauty, of course). We wandered on down to have lunch at the dliffline on the way out, high up on the left - very pleasant: cliffs all around, and views out to the Capertee Valley and the valley of the pipeline track to Newnes. Because of the risk of lack of water I decided on "Plan B": go back to the Capertee and walk down stream to the Cooroongooba. That way, if it was dry we could change plans without risk of another dry camp with a long dry walk the following day.

The way out down this boulder jam is "interesting": over, under, round, through, every which way - but eventually down. Ken just had to climb down the very rusty rope ladder into the big pool near the bottom - anything for a swim!

On the way to the Cooroongooba we studied the remains of the oil shale mine and retorts. Remarking on man's stupidity to man. Why on earth would people build a wail slag across a river valley and then be amazed when the water backed up, up stream during a flood? No problems with floods now, though the river is just a series of pools. We were at the Cooroongooba by 4.30; luckily it was flowing quite well (Running Stream living up to its name). We camped just upstream from the junction on a large flat area (GR504323). The

night was pleasant: warm, with some misty rain but no wind.

We packed up ready to go reasonably early, when ... ! Warren couldn't find his car keys. So he walked back to where he'd put his raincoat on the night before - but no joy. He and Yvonne decided to go back to the cars in case he had to go back to Newcastle for spare keys. The rest of us were away by 9.10. A very pleasant walk in this deep-dliffed valley. Lush vegetation, big tres, lovely scenery, cliffs of red-yellow-brown-grey, delightful bird calls of many kinds, a beaut sunny day after the misty start. Good water flow, relatively easygoing, some rockhopping, much walking on .a flat sandy bed, so it was possible not to get our feet wet. We were at our camping spot, where I found mining and prospecting tools on a previous trip, by 1.50 pm. Some of us set up camp on a flat sand spit, and Ken camped in the cave, then we set off upstream to explore the next re-entrant to the east at GR506367. A pleasant canyony valley with relatively easy walking, but cliffs with no obvious ways up for as far as we went (one to two kilometres). Probably worth exploring further, with a view to getting onto the plateau. We were back in camp by 5 pm, and spent a very pleasant night with no rain at all.

Morning was lovely, with many bird calls: sunny, a breeze, and a pleasant temperature. We were away by 8, downstream to explore the next re-entrant to the east at CR512 363. A wonderful little valley, canyon sections, prolific vegetation, very scenic, not too bad going. By 10 we were perched below a cliff high on the bank at the first main junction at CR515 371. It was obvious we were not going to get on top easily - certainly not in time to guarantee return to Glen Davis by 3 pm, my planned departure time. So we returned to Cooroongooba by 12. This creek is well worth further exploration. It is a bit steeper than other creeks in the area - we did use a short rope for safety at one waterfall - but we found many possible camping places as far as we went.

We got back to Glen Davis at the planned time to be reunited with Warren and Yvonne. Warren did have to go to Newcastle for spare keys. The camping ground showers had a queue but it was nice to wash in warm water.

It was a good wallc with really good company in a wonderful area. A little more water on the plateau would have made it perfect.

Doug Floyd P CBC IT June 1995 page 14

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE CANBERRA BUSH WALKING CLUB: 1947-1969

The Beoinnin

Our Club began in April 1947 as the Canberra Bushwalking and Touring Club. The name followed that of the Melbourne Walking and Touring club, reputedly the oldest bushwalking club in Australia. the eleven, foundation members mostly came from Melbourne,'Sydney and Hobart clubs.

Petrol was rationed in the early years, so walks were mostly in the ACT ranges. There were occasional tips further afield - to the Snowy Mountains, Kangaroo Valley and the Blue Mountains. The membership grew to about fifty.

Some of our Club's walkers were also skiers and members of the Canberra Alpine Club. They rekindled the Alpine Club's earlier interest in bushwalking. In the early 19505 our Club was deliberately allowed to become dormant as the Alpine Club was able to satisfy both skiing and bushwalking interests. It was assumed that there would be a revival of the walking club as Canberra grew.

By November 1961 there were many new bushwalkers in the city. The population of Canberra had doubled during the Club's dormant period. The Alpine Club expanded its skiing activities, changed its membership regulations, and increased its membership fee. It was time to revive the Canberra Walking and Touring Club. A meeting was held at which nineteen were present. Jack Leslie, who was a founder of the 1947 club, was appointed acting president, and the Club entered its second age.

In the early years a walk program was drawn up each quarter. The inaugural walk was to Bimberi - a party of five was led by Margot Cox. The activity programs catered for a wide range of interests and abilities. Mainstream day and weekend walks of all grades made up the major part of the program. There were also specialist trips. A rockclimbing group climbed at the Tinderry Peaks, Mount Coree, Booroomba Rocks and Bungonia Gorge. The Club purchased a climbing rope and other equipment for the instruction of beginners. Orienteering appeared on some the early programs. Each winter Harry Black ran a snow-caving weekend. In the mid-t 9605, natural history excursions became an activity with trips to observe bush birds, brumbies, wildflowers and marine flora and fauna.

In the 1960s there were several exploratory trips to the Woila area. Geoff Mosley, -wtio later became Director of the Australian Conservation Foundation, led trips in successive years. In the May 1966 IT he wrote:

During the last three years the vegetation in the Mother Woila area has virtually corns to depend for its moisture on the sweat that has dripped from a succession of Canberra and Newcastle parties making abortive attempts on the ridge circuit...

Wider acknowledgement of this walker's contribution is recorded in Fitzroy Falls and Beyond:

Geoff Mosley (Canberra Bushwalkers) led an incredible one day exploration in mid-1968 from Rodgers Hill over Hamlets Crown and the north-facing sctee slope between the Crown and the main escarpment. The route then led down to Ettrema Creek to Cinch Creek and Paul's Pass and back along the fire road to Rodgers Hill. /

A monthly circular was sent to each member giving notice of general meetings and trips. IT first appeared in December 1965 and contained social news, walk reports and general articles. The circular continued until October 1967 after which it was amalgamated with IT

In February 1965 the Club's name was changed to Canberra Bushwalking Club. The striking yellow and black Corroboree Frog (Pseudophyne corroboree), which is found only in the Snowy Mountains and mountains nearer Canberra, was adopted as the Club emblem.

Anton Cook (repifled from the January 198907

cc IT June1995 page 15

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