From the Editor A Matter of Safety There seems to be a diversity of opinion on exactly how. much modem technology should be allowed on a bushwalk. , Len Hainke's letter to the editor, published on page 10, highlights this aspect of the nature of those walkers who are very. ready with arguments as to why a wireless communications system will detract from the self reliant aspect of wilderness buShwalking, and who at the same time utilise the most modern' high tech' equipment they can buy, (no expense spared) if it will add to their. comfort or reduce their pack Weight. What value your Membership? Brian Harvey, ha s been a member since 1936 and obviously puts a very high value on his Club Badge.. (see page 5). Brian, there will be a lot of members who share your view that joining the Club was one of the best things that they ever did. It's sort of like becoming a 'member of a large extended family: After a while it brings a measure of 'belonging' which is a comfortable feeling and the vei-Y thought of not belonging simply isn't entertained. 'The Club record book contains, quite a few names of people whO, for various reasons left. and then later found that 'something was missirig' and rejoined. On behalf of all Sydney Bushwalkers we thank you for Your letter and wish you a happy 83rd year, And good walking to you. THE SYDNEY AUSHWALKER is a monthly bulletin of matters of interest to The Sydney Bush Walkers Inc, Box 4476 GPO Sydney 2001. To advertise in this magazine, please contact the Business Manager. . .“. Editor: George Mawer 42 Lincoln Road Georges Hall 2-198 TelePhorie 707 1343. Basiness Manager: Joy Hynes , 36 Lewis Street, Dee Why 2099 Telephone. 982 2615 Q-1),888 3144 (B) Production Manager: Fran Holland Editorial Team: Barbara'Bruce, Bill Holland, Jo Robertson & Maurice Smith Printers: Ken Clacher, Kay Chan, Barrie MurdoCli,Iviargaret-Niven &'Les Powell In This issue July. 1994 2 Notices 2 Adventurer of the year 5 Who Draws the Line where ? 5 Letter to the Treasurer MU 6 Cycling with Brian Holden 6 The Blue Mountains Henry Lawson rill 9 Flowers of The Royal - Judy Mehaffey A:7 10 Warragamba Dam - Alex Colley 11 News Flash - Anonymous 11 The Bushwalkers Ball - The Busbwalker 12 The June General Meeting - Barry Wallace 13 From The Clubroom - Maurice Smith 13 Important Notice - Subscriptions 14 Washpool Colours - David Trinder Advertisers: 3 Alpsports 4 Eastwood Camping Centre 7 Mountain Equipment 8 Pyrenees Expeditions 11 Willis's Walkabouts 13 Paddy Pallin THE SYDNEY BUSH WALKERS INCORPORATED was founded in 1927. club Meetings are held every Wednesday evening at 8. pin at Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre, 16 Fitzroy Street, Kirribilli (near MilSons Point Railway Station). Visitors and prospective members arc welcome any Wednesday. President: Greta James - :Vice-President: Jan Debert Public Officer: Fran Holland Treasurer: Tony Holgate Secretary: Maureen Carter Walks Secretary: Morrie Ward Social Secretary: John Hogan Membership Secretary: Barry Wallace New Members Secretary: Bill Holland Conservation Secretary: Alex Colley Magazine Editor: George Mawer Committee Members: Denise Shaw & Maurice Smith . Delegates to Confederation: Wilf Hilder & . Ken Smith r. 7 PAGE 2 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALICER JULY 1994 Postponement of Six Foot track Walk from JAN MOHANDAS The Six Foot Track walk programmed for Saturday, 20th August 1994 is postponed to Saturday, 17th September 1994, Jan' has arranged single nights low- cost accommodation it the Jenolan House ($83 per person). This includes budget accommodation, dinner on..Saturday. 17th September and breakfast on Sunday,: 18th September. Those who can get ready early on 17th evening should also be able to enjoy “the wine and cheese chat” provided by the Jenolan House prior to dinner. - This postponement is necessitated by the non availability of any kind of single nights accommodation at the Jenolan House on the night of 20th August 1994. Only 15 twin rooms have been booked. ThOse who are either planning to do the six foot track walk or to come and support the walkers and wishing to stay at the Jenolan House,. should contact directly the Jenolan House on (063) 593304 and speak to Margo or Angela as soon as possible to ensure a place. U Coolana Gathering From IAN DEBERT Coolana is a nice place to spend a relaxing day or two. On Saturday and, Sunday July 23rd & 24th Bill Holland is running a training session at CoOlana; which will include map reading, bushcraft and first aid. While that's going on, Ian Debert will -be organising a working bee to catch up on some property maintenance which you are invited to join. You don't have to be an expert in any particular field, just willing to contribute a little time and muscle. If you're not into those, there is bird watching and bush walks. Justsitting around sOcialising and chatting can be. rewarding and is always a favourite .with lots of people. Or if it's sunny and warm you Might simply want to be still and commune with nature. Watch the ants. Listen to the grass grow. and -.some of…: those other subtle noises of the bush. On Saturday night the traditional communal camp fire: Always pleasant and usually lots of good.. fun. Be ready with, Story to tell or that joke you thOUght Was so good. 'Please try to. come. And If you. cant make it to one, make a promise to yourself to come to the next Coolana Gathering. Unwind at Coolana. 0 Advance Notice Expressions of interest are sought from members and prospectives who are interested in walking on the October long weekend in the Warrumbungles National Park, which i located near Coonabarabran. in north west. New South Wales. Hopefully the weather will not be too hot. I have not walked there but I have heard that there is some fabulous bushwalking in. the National Park. This area is also a well known rock climbing venue. Our very own Dot. Butler - pioneered various climbs in this park. If you have any experience in walking' in the park or 'advice about the area I would, be delighted to hear from you. As it is a long drive to get there 1 will investigate the possibility of using a coach service or hiring a mini-bus. An additional day off work On either side of the Weekend would' probably be advantageous. If you are interested please give me a call, on (02) 587 6325 (home). As it will be necessary to make bookings etc, a cut off by the end of August will be required.. If I am overwhelmed with expressions. of interest it might evenbe necessary to put a limit on numbers. I hope to hear from you. Maurice Smith. 17J Walks Announcement (Late final extra) An additional day walk along the Sydney Harbour Foreshores is listed for Sunday July 17th Ken Smith is leading a 24 km walk from Manly to Cremorrie via the foreshores. Wonderful views of the Harbour. Grading is Easy Medium Phone Ken on (h) 977 7403. 0 Special Award Each year Australian Geographic gives a medal to: “The Adventurer of the Year” Two members of our club, Col Putt and Dot Butler have both received gold -medals in past years and at this years awards night held in the Darling Harbour Convention Centre two more members of our club were added to the list. David Robinson and Mode Ward

-were each 'awarded a silver medal for their part in the Borneo expedition to climb Batu Lawi. Our congratulations to David and Morrie . 0 Are You Thinking About Changing Your Address?. We have a self contained one bedroom flat available at Deewhy close to shops and transport. separate entrance, good views. $ 140.00 per week which includes electricity and heating. Contact Joy Hines. (h) 98126.15. or (w) 888 3144. b GONE PILNET 'AUS [RAI, Come in and discover for yourself the fun of browsing through mountains of outdoor equipment… “HA STRALiA INIT 'ILDERNESS s P'49 El6

Be assisted by knowledgeable, friendly staff. Realistic prices for everyone. 614 # WIlderness EI4Lipment triacpac TOM THE SPORT SANDAL. boreal. EBlueWater ) Stu 9..inas(cethrd 0.cfn k fordi,.ii-30 _wnerican express: :. cheque lay-fip si 1-111 L /4. Ii VICTORI SIOX THERWA-REST SOURCE VAC;ABONI) sTykls _ 11 tradin2 hours Monday: 9:00ain 5:30Pm Tuesday: 9:00am -5:30Pm Wednesday:. 9:01:Pun -5:30Pin Thursday: 9:00arn 9:00Pm Friday: 9:00am -5:30P41 Saturday: 9:00'm - 1:30Pm Sunday: . CLOSED 11.3 tr an gi a eastwood camping centre 1111EC retet gtorth. 3 Trelawney Street Eastwood NSW 2122 Telephone (02) 858 3833 We specialise in the latest light weight gear for your outdoor adventures. Whether you require Tents, Backpacks, Sleeping bags, Rainwear, Stoves Abseiling gear or Accessories, we carry the best, brands. Macpac, j&H, Berghaus, Scarpa, Outgear, trangia, M.S.R., Jansport, Bluewater, Edelrid, Petzl, S.R.T. We offer you personalised knowledgeable service to help you purchase the cbrrect equiprnent for your needs, naturally we offer the best prices too. Advice is a phone call away. X-Couri Skiers We stock the latest range of skis, boots bindings, & poles for backcountry and telemark BACKCOUNTRY SKI HIRE IMPORT T NOTICE IRE GEAR oh- ptatiur up-uoirr Now Available A Macpac - Tents - Backpacks - Sleeping bags A j&li - Rainwear A Trangia - Stoves A Thennarests A Bivvy Bags Special prices for club members. Week or weekend rates. MAIL ORDER CATALOGIJE AVAILABLE DISCOUNT FOR CLUB MEMBERS 0/11111101=1111W111111MIMIMMIma IMMINNI1111V N II I MMINMEIMMENNEON , wrsesssr. Nimalma NIIMENIMMI NNOMIMF m Your 'One Stop` Adventure Shop 1045-1047 Victoria Rd West Ryde NSW 2114. Ph: (02) 858 5844 JULY 1994 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 5 =, Letter to the Editor Modern Communications systems Dear. Editor The - recent rescue of a Club member injured on a bushwalk,. presents us with a great opportunity to rethink the position of our club's S&R technique and' how it fits into the corruntinity as a responsible member. .Over its existence, the Club has established a set of values and attitudes which, naturally, attempt to cement our love for the environment in which we enjoy walking. Any factor which challenges these, is greeted with some suspicion. We would examine this challenge and see how it sits within the broad 'mission of the Club. . We -have seen great changes to the total scene - with the walker and the bush all affected in sonic way. In this revolution, we like to think we still have resourcefulness and control within us. We have! What we also have is choices! Often they are linked with responsibilities and/or 'advantages. Walkers equipment has gone through. enormous changes, with synthetics. and plastics in packs, Gortex raincoats, polypropylene thermal underwear, tents,.. boots, socks, gloves, climbing tapes, polyester glass fibre poles , etc helping to lighten the. load and enhancing our equipment: Our safety in the bush is increased bythe Clubs membership in Federation's Search and Rescue facility. These things we embraced with little. hesitation and, as part of the benefit of technological change, we saw -it as the way to go.' ' As more people. become interested in bushwalkirig,. Our resources will be taxed to show more community responsibility in the safety arena. Press coverage in recent Years has been heavy, with TV coverage of rescues being very newsworthy!! . We should remember that it is only six months since this club faced a heavy - claim for damages by an injured walker over alleged irresponsibility, of a club. leader_ Fortunately the Club was clear. The next one may not be so! It is timely, therefor, to show leadership as an old and established premier NSW bushwalking club and utilise simple communication's technology that is available now to improve our safety performance. Emergencies in the bush wont go away. We already have rapid rescue transportation via helicopters. We have leaders with good knowledge of First Aid - 60% of the rescue package! We haven't the ability to tap quickly into the facility, to complete the rescue. As a result the victim may suffer unnecessary trauma and long term after effects. A lightweight, unobtrusive and efficient communications system is required. An added bonus is that reScue is then possible the same day before mountain mists make landings impossible until they clear, often the next morning-an added expense! As I write this letter, I am wrestling with the same philosophical thoughts that many walkers have about the intrusion of this portable solution in' my wilderness! The question I am asking myself. iswould I accept early rescue through the efforts of .a thoughtful leader -who secretly Carried. a CB radio, if I was the injured walker somewhere out there. How are you. going :with your wrestling. ?. Care to let someone know about it! Federation search and. rescue use similar equipment as part of their standard procedures. Len flainkeThe Hon' Treasurer Sydney Bushvvalkers Dear treasurer I have much pleasure in forwarding a 'cheque for $9.00 which I hope is the current annual subscription for a non active member who does not subscribe to “The Sydney Bushwalker” monthly magazine. As far as can be ascertained there was no information in the last annual report nor any enclosure as to the sum to be forwarded so I have forwarded an identical sum to 'last year. ,I gain the impression that as the club is now wealthy the loss of my annual subscription is of small moment. However, this is my 59th Annual Subscription and, with luck, perhaps I will be in the position to forward my 60th next year provided I do not fall off the twig in the Meantime as I am now in my 83rd year. After that I will call it quits. However, on the brighter side, my joining the S.B.W. in 1936 was one of the best actions I ever took as my best friends in this life have been members of :the club, now unfortunately dwindled in numbers. It has been noted from the annual report that all but a small percentage of prospective members , withdrew. It always has been thus. .Before World War Two a very satisfactory set of walking gear including tent, sleeping bag and rucksack cost around $14. My first down bag from'Paddy Pallin was $4.20, the rucksack $4.75 and the 2 man' tent $3.00. And good walking to all Yours faithfully Brian G Harvey PAGE 6 THE. SYDNEY BUSi-IWALKER JULY 1994 Cycling in the Jervis Bay Area by Brian Holden A two day cycle necessitates a base camp or a vehicle transporting gear. Green Patch in the Jervis Bay N.P. (ph. 044 430977) turned out to be a Very comfortable base camp and (on 18/19 June) largely empty of people. , On the Saturday the ride was to a big lunch at the Fluskisson Pub via a great pie shop at Vincentia. I could not afford to do too many lans that day in anticipation of a substantial (turned out to huge) Chinese dinner at Vincentia. Together with Sunday stops at an old style family cafe at St.Georges Basin and a Devonshire Tea place at Christian Mitide, all the locally prepared food we consumed was tops. ' I was apprehensive that the tiger riders in the party that weekend would not be able to keep their frustration's under control - but they bravely forced themselves to fit in with the lots of eating and sitting around I am accustomed to and I was' spared some 'well deserved abuse. There is a cycle way running between VinCentia and Sanctuary Point shopping centre., 1 was first made aware of this last year when a motorist honked me and demanded that 1. use what cost the locals a “bloody fortune”, no. doubt she was one of those who voted :against its construction, I had,gone out of my way to put the cYcleway on the program as cyclists do jump up and down about the lack of cycle ways and if they are provided they should be seen tobe used. It was a pleasant enough ride as per the program but the mountain bike option I was Skilfully eased into making available and which was taken up by five of the party, turned out to be the way to go in the future.

No' especially eccentric behaviour occurred as sometinies. happens on programmed'. SBW activities but there Was one prospective member who turned up with a Malvern Star which looked suspiciously like one I 'Art out on the, council clean up day after it had been stuck behind mums shed for 40 years. All pity for this person went 'when I saw the Vehicle she came in. We finished the weekend with tea in the vehicle's saloon. A group camp spot cost $38 and is limited to 4 cars. Individual car spots cost $13. All tents must be pitched within the boundaries of the hired areas and not as we had in the softer looking, areas outside. A ranger took around 15 minutes to explain the right way in people- park relations. Although I was advised to book well in advance, there is certainly na need to do so in winter outside of school holidays. Hot water is really hot and the toilets are very clean. Cycling can never be a Substitute for bushwalking as. it lacks the spiritual component and the vast variety ofthings to attract one's ' attention. The near -essential absence of heavy traffic greatly restricts what can be offered members in the way of variety in programmed rides. The Jervis Bay area is so pleasant and so close to Sydney I. hope to repeat the activity next Jime but this time with the recommended Cave Beach as the base camp and a program suited to Mountain bikes rather than one tailored specifically for my Ultra-thin tyres and wheel rims. 0 THE BLUE MOUNTAINS Henry Lawson 1888 Above the ashes straight and tall, Through ferns with moisture dripping, i climb beneath the sandstone wall, My feet on mosses slipping. .Like ramparts round the valley's edge The tinted cliffs are standing, With many a broken wall and ledge, And many a rocky landing. And round about their rugged feet Deep ferny dells are hidden.' In shadowed depths whence dust and heat Are banished and forbidden. The stream that, crooning to itself, Comes down a tireless rover, Flows calmly to the rocky shelf, And there leaps bravely over. Now pouring down, now lost in spray When mountain breezes sally, The water strikes the rock midway, And leaps into the valley. Now in the west the colours change, The blue with cr-imson blending: Behind the far Dividing Range,. The sun is fast descending. And mellowed day comes o'er the place, And softens ragged edges; 'The rising moon's great placid face Looks gravely o'er the ledges. 0 UTFITTERS FOR THE RIMS BUSH WALKER *THE LEADING SPECIALISTS. SYDNEY . 291 SUSSEX STREET (CNR. BATHURST) PH: (02) 264 3146 or (02) 267 3639 FAX: (02) 264 2645. CHATSWOOD 272 VICTORIA AVENUE (OPP. CHATSWOOD CHASE CAR PARK) PH: (02) 419 6955 BUSHWALKING PACKS All sizes 40-85 litre capacity. The best designs to suit Our. back. MACPAC, WE., ClUTGEAR & SOUTH WINO. RAINSHELLS Jackets, oltrousers & capes. Goretex, Milair, MVT Nylon, MONT, WE., INTERTREK & PETER STORM, THERMAL UNDERA OUTER WEAR Polypropelene, Chlorofibre, Polartech, Polarlite Si Polarplus. PROPEL, EVERWARM, PETER STORM, SNOWGUM,. MACPAC, MONT & INTERTREK, DOWN SLEEPING BAGS From super-lightweight travel to expedition use. MACPAC, MONT, SALEWA, J&H & ROMAN. FOOTWEAR Ski Touring &Climbing. Synthetics or leather. MONTELLIANA, LA ROBUSTA, LA SPORTtVA, BUNYIP, HI-TECH, MERREL & VASOUE, um awn nom NM MIN NEWSLETTERS EQUIPMENT CATALOGUE PRODUCT UPDATES 1 PLUS,- YOUR CHANCE TO WIN EXCITING PRIZES! I Please send me into on: o TRAVEL PACKS a SLEEPING BAGS FOO7WEAR WARMWEAR MN 0 RAIAIWEAR TENTS El STOVES For Trekking, Travelling, Bushwalking, . Ni wow wax NEM MN MN IOW =MI 1111111.11.1Nei eYES, I WOULD LIKE TO BE INCLUDED ON 1- - MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT'S MAILING LIST! I NAME:

'P/CODE POST TO: MOUNTAIN EQUIPMENT 291 SUSSEX ST, SYDNEY 2000.Ph: (02) 264 3146 Lis sow asap Nom as moo firm mos ma mai arm nor win rim row MINN OINIE MN MN so mum am mow rigs arm min 1 mow min ADDRESS: Mountain lquiprnent!., The leading specialistsin lightweight outdoor, equipment. PYRENEES ADVENTURES Guided walking holidays in South West France -Based in a beautifully restored 18th C 'Basque farmhouse, you can enjoy guided walks in the Pyrenees. Our 7, 10 and 14 day holidays for up to ten guests provide family style hospitality and excellent cuisine. Walk some of the pilgrim trails and other routes in this stunning chain of mountains forming the age old border between France and Spain. Explore the architectural and other delights of ancient Basque villages. Soak up other aspects of the culture in this unspoiled, green and remote corner of southern Europe. Your hosts are experienced guides offering a wealth of local knowledge to make this a holiday with a difference. Graded walks for all levels Transport to and from walks Transport to and from station Prices from $750 per week Full hoard offering excellent cuisine and wine Generous discounts available for groups For a brochure and details of Pyrenees Adventures holidays phone Dave or Chris on (02) 929 5347 Social evening slide presentations gladly arranged JULY 1994 - THE SYDNEY BUSHWAILKER PAGE 9 Flowers of the Roya Family Epacridaceae Svphelia and Epaeris During autumn and winter when flowers are scarce, walkers in open forest or heath might have noticed small shrubs with red -tubular flowers amongst the green. These could have been either Styphelia tubylora or Epacris iongiflora. At first glance these flowers are ,similar but the differences are obvious when they, are viewed side-by-side. The stamens and style of S. tubiflora are much longer than the floral ttibe and the petal lobes curl outwards,. hence the common name Five- corners. The floral tubes of E. longifLora enclose the stamens and style and are more striking with their white spreading tips. On close inspection it is apparent that the' two shrubs loOk quite different. The 'leaves, the shape of 'the shrub and the way the flowers are arranged are not alike. J.M. tobifilora Red Five-corners , This is a spreading much- branched shrub, up to about 1 m high, widespread in heath and open forest' on sandy soils. The leaves are up to 15 min long, rigid with short abrupt points. The flower is a crimson narrow delicate tube, greenish- yellow at the base, 20-25 mm long, and having protruding stamens and style. The lobes of. the five petals are curled back. The fruit is a greenish red- shaded berry, . Flowering.April to August. Styphilia tubiflora From NPWS Epacris longiflora From NPWS Epacris longiflora Fuchsia Heath This straggling untidy shrub, 50-200 cm high,. is very common in heath and open forest on sandy soils. The leaf is heart-shaped, stiff and sharply pointed, 5-12 mm long. The petals are joined to form a rose-red tube up to 20 mm long, with, white spreading tips. The flowers hang down from the branches in long showy sprays,especially conspicuous in winter when few other shrubs are flowering. Flowering all year but mostly April to November. Epacris rnicrophylla Coral Heath This Epacris is also very common in the Royal, in heath on damp sandy soils and to a lesser extent in. open forest. It- is an erect shrub with slender branches, 30-60 cm or more high. The stiff leaves are 34 mm long; stalkless, broad above the base with a short point. The small flowers are white, occasionally tinged With pink, numerous along the stems. The five petals are partly fused to form a short broad tube with spreading lobes Flowering mostly June November. Epacris Inicrophylla From NPWS PAGE 10 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER JULY 1994 THE WARRAGAMBA DAM by Alex Colley There are still bushwalkers around who remember the beauty of Bunigorang Valley and the Wanragamba River before it Went below the waters of the present Lake Burragorang. There was little opposition' to the construction of the dam because the then existing water storage could not., supply the growing population during bad droughts. The present proposals to raise the dam are, however, meeting strong opposition. The ostensible reasons for raising the dam are to prevent a collapse in a king sized flood and then reduce the effect of floods on the flat, lands below the dam. The main. concern is that, should the flood waters exceed the Capacity. of the spilli,vays: and overtop the crest of the dam, the dam wall would be severely damaged by the action of the overflow. By strengthening the dam and raising its height, more water could be stored above the normal full storage level and released in a regulated flow through conduits in the dam Wall. The severity of floods below the dam would thus be decreased. There are a number of proposals for increasing storage capacity. The one at present favoured is to raise the dam wall in two stages, first by 12 metres and later by another 24 metres, both of' which entail considerable concrete addition to the dam wall. The full 36 Metres addition would enable the flooding of the Cox 5 km above the present full storage level and the Kowmung for 2 km. The 36 m increase would enable flooding of the Cox. for 19 Ian and the Kommiung for 8 km. The flooding Would last for up to 30 days. Much of the flora beneath the flooding would die as would much of the fauna, either from drowning or starvation. The band of bare soil,' gravel and weeds now existing below full storage and present storage levels would be greatly increased: There are several other options. One is for an enormous rock fill concrete surfaced dam to be constructed above or below the present dam. This would entail' much greater flooding. Another is for new dams upstream on the Cox, Kowmtmg and Wollondilly. There is no doubt that all these options would be environmentally disastrous. Are they really necessary? The Greiner Government questioned whether more' storage was necessary, Tim Moore opposed them, even the Water Board doesn't really want them, but is forced to follow the Government's growth' obsession.

It is nevertheless unlikely that the flooding will cause much 'concern beyond bushwalking circles. Most people have, never been to the areas to be flooded and never will go there. There, are, however,' some very strong economic reasons why the enormous expense of creating the extra storage - several hundred of millions of dollars for raising the dam wall and much more for new. dams - is not justified. This expenditure will be in addition to the $7 billion required to , repair Sydney's run down water reticulation and'sewerage system. The present dam can be strengthened without raising the wall. The threat of floods overtopping the wall can be removed by the building of a wide spillway which could be opened when necessary. This Would remove the threat of collapse. It Would ,not enable storage capacity to be increased, as it could be if the extra capacity were used for Storage instead of flood control.. It is probable that, as 'population increased, the Government would use some or all of the additional capacity for water storage. The Water Board believes water usage could be decreased by one third. This could be achieved if everybody tried to save water by following the Board's recommendations, but many wont, and' therefore increased- user pays' charges offset perhaps by reduced service charges, would be necessary. This policy would boost waterrecycling, already practiced by. many industrial plants. The necessity for increased water storage might well be deferred for 'a couple of decades by these measures. All but the occasional abnormal flood could be controlled by the present flood control methods. Most of the damage such floods would cause could. be avoided by a realistic planning policy which excluded residential development from flood prone land. The main damage would then be occasional crop losses, one of the many 'hazards 'of river flat farmers and a risk which could be made insurable.. Present water storage capacity would not be sufficient for the ever increasing population of Sydney, a trend which the State Government not only expects, but welcomes. Population is estimated to be' 4.5 million in 20 years and 7 million in 50 years. To meet the demand for water on the scale required, planning will have to continue and construction start in the not distant future. It is probable that the raising of the Warragamba dam would be the favoured scheme. The next project would be the Welcome Reef Dam on the Shoalhaven, the waters of which would ex-tend 50 kin. up the river and inundate 15,300 ha of land. After thiS where? The Colo? the Grose? and then? It is however, clear, that the above measures will not be necessary if Sydney's population is stabilised. Stabilisation is a s matter of choice, not necessity. The city's natural increase is offset by the number leaving to live in cheaper and more salubrious places such as the north coast and Queensland. Population increase depends on the level Of migration, since some 40% of migrants settle in Sydney. If the level of migration were reduced to a level covering the 14,000 political refugees and an equal number admitted on other humanitarian grounds, immigration would be offset by emigration and extra water storageswould be 'unnecessary. U. JULY 1994 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 11 News Flash New Member Snaps Recently invested in the esteemed membership ranks of 'SBW and proudly sporting , his new shiny unsCratched flannel flower, Dennis (Tripod) Morgan has become a popular presence at club walks and meetings.. From New Zealand, Dennis has Sir Edmund Hillary's stature and on Weekend walks carries packs as large is those of the Sherpas, conSistently having the largest and heaviest pack in the group, a distinction that 'few members will aspire 'to: (particularly in Kanangra country). Dennis has also achieved notoriety through his patient pursuit of the. perfect picture, yes, the ultimate, happy snap, a. group. of happy walkers atop one of natures grand features and with panoramic backdrops chosen to enhance the stunning display of colourfulwalkers (Or was that colourful display of stunned walkers). Without respect for his own health or well being Dennis ladens himself with tripod and sophisticated 35 mm photographic apparatus which is able to encapsulate the very spirit of the SBW in the Kodachrome. Btirdened with this extra weight, . Dennis uncomplainingly returns to metropolis .and carefully extracts each of the walkers from the black _box to take their place on a glossy 4 by 6'to which he thoughtfully adds details of the walk and name's of all “attendees and then distributes them to each participant.. So if you are the shy retiring type that would rather people didn't knOW that you associate with strange and obSessive. people that participate in ancient ritual events such as the K to Ic then keep your head down when Dennis is. about, because he's ready to snap you up: Otherwise just smile. Thanks for the snaps Dennis, you make a great SBW photographer, We wont forget Tripod Morgan. 0 1110111 Oushwalker Ball Start practicing your dancing! The annual Bushwalkers Ball will be held in September. For those who have never been to the Ball it is a very informal bush dance and has been held for the last few years at Petersham Town Hall.. This year the ball is being held on September 16th to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the Coast and Mountain Walkers. As usual. there will be a theme for the ball, this year it will be a “family” theme as this is the year of the family.: Clubs can compete with costumes or table decorations Which should vaguely reflect the theme.. Tickets will be sold at the door so there is no need to book. For more information, phone John Hogan on 7251890.0 And discover what makes Build Up Bushviailking such a special experience. . As the 3; ear progresses, the hot, dry weather of September turns into the hotter,' humid Weather of October and November. All but a fewCreeks havecompletely disappeared. Major rivers are reduced to a series of isolated waterholes. The land lies brown and parched, waiting, still, silent and sweltering. Suddenly, a wind springs up..In a matter of minutes, the. tempera ture drops five or even ten degrees: The first few drops of rain turn into a torrent as lightning flashes and, thunder roars. Then it is over and still once more. The frogs began to call and the birds begin to sing. The land turns green again, alrhost as you watch. All nature rejoices in the change.. . - 'Even in. this, the hottest time of 'yea r, there are a few beautiful, cool; shady creeks and, gorges where the bushWalker can relax and watch. the birds as they come in for a drink of listen to the cicada chorus which announces the corning change. Knowledgeable locals head bush at every opportunity, leaving the ignorant - to swelter in the city. Our routes ha.. e been chosen. with relaxation; swimming and shade in mind. Walking Will generally be restricted to earl in the morning and late in the afternoon. The hot middle part of the day will devoted to taking it easy and soaking up the sights ..$ and sounds of th e envirdnment around us. On our final Walk of the year. we - finish with an overnight stay on a houseboat on the :Clary River, allowing yOu to experiene the wetlands wildlife at its concentrated best..

WILLIS'S WALKABOUTS 12 Carrington Street Millner NT 0810 Phone (089) 85 2134- Fax: (089) 85 2355 WALk4 , 4- 4A . ici,* PAGE 12 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER JULY 1994 The June. General Meeting. It was around 2002 when the president, in the chair, Called the 17 or so members present to order and glared. at the scribe as he came hastening in from the outer darkness to record proceedings for the literate. multitude. There were some apologies but they are not recorded here. New members Glen Cecil and Dennis Morgan were welcomed into full. membership with applause, constitution, badge,: handshake and; warm greetings. The minutes of. the previous meeting were read and, with one minor correction thanks to Alex's long term memory, received and accepted as , a 'true and correct record. There were no matters arising. . Correspondence was composed of a. letter from a councillor with the Hawkesbury City Council' requesting our support 'in the Matter of restricting helicopter flights over National parks areas, and one from member :Brian Harvey paying his 59th subscription and rreminiscing about Paddy Palm's prices m the old days. 'There-Were also outgoing letters to new members and an Alex Colley letter to the minister Chris Harcher regarding access problems into areas of the Buddawangs. The treasurer's report, presented in his absence on holidays in Queensland somewhere, indicated that we earned or otherwise acquired income of $3,910, spent $687 and closed. the month with a balance of $5,402. The walks report began with the weekend of 20, 21, 22 May and closed with the Weekend of 13,. 14, 15 May. Events are reported here in chronological order. . Over the weekend of 13, 14, 15 May. Ian Debert's walk from Kanangra to the Kowmung and -back went under the baton of Alan Wells with 8 walkers. Oliver Crawford's walk out of Glen Davis 'was deferred to the following weekend. Rosemary MacDougals walk over Lockley's Pylon to Bluegum and back was rerouted for various reasons, but they all, however many of them there were, came out OK. Jim Calaway also rerouted his day walk in the Royal. The party of 9 went from Waterfall to Garie via the Hacking River.

Alan Doherty's walk over the weekend of 20, 21, 22 May firoin Kanangra was led by substitute leader Barry Wallace with a party Of 3. Conditions were fine and mild and Colboyd range has just as many large step-ups as ever. Oliver Crawford also conducted his deferred walk from Glen Davis to 'Glen Davis Trig and return over this weekend. There were 8 starters and it was described as brilliant. Bill Capon's medium hard day walk in Megalong Valley was cancelled due to lack of starters but John Hogan's Sunday bicycle trip to Minnamun-a Falls saw 8 cyclists enjoying fine weather and a gala opening of the renovated track to the falls. Errol - Sheedy had provided a f-ull written report on his walk in the Royal but it was still at home at Bill's place and took no part in the proceedings. There was a prevailing belief among those present that the walk Went with around 12 in the party. Tony Manes's. walk from Stanwell Park to Otford was somewhat truncated but the day was beautiful so no-one worried in the least May 27, 28, 29 saw Carol Lubbers leading a party of 10 to 12 people on the various stages of her weekend trips to Pantoney's Crown and the Genowlan Plateau. Greta. James deferred her programmed trip to the Megalong Valley. It is to be rescheduled to a weekend in early July so watch that space. Morag Ryder modified the route of her Mt Solitary Sunday walk somewhat,with the party of 8. coming out up the Golden Stairs as darkness threatened: Les, Powell reported a party of 15 and a beautiful day for his Jerusalem Bay, Taffy's lookout walk John Hogan had a party of,15 on his “Six Foot Track in two days” walk over June 3, 4., 5. The weather was good but they encountered numerous trail bikes out exercising their riders along the fire trails: The bils they hired to return the party from Jeno/an Caves paused long enough'to permit them to enjoy what sounds like a most convivial dinner at Hampton On the way. Wilf Hilder led some 'number of persons greater than 6 on stage 7 of the Federation walk. Errol Sheedy's walk from Waterfall to Engadine attracted 20 for what was described as a nice walk, conducted at a reasonable pace. ,Peter Miller's walk from Berowra to Berowra had been scheduled on the wrong weekend and did not go. Conservation report brought news of a letter received from the Native Forests Association advising us of a. conference to', be 'held in Melbourne later this year. We also received a letter from Chris Harcher in response to our concerns about access 'to the Buddawangs via Sassafras. Unfortunately it only acknowledged the existence of our letter and nothing more. There were also two letters regarding the control, or lack thereof, over helicopter flights over areas. in the Blue Mountains National Park.' Confederation have written to various bodies requesting that aecess to Megalong Valley areas be preserved in the event that Carlon's Farm is sold. There was no general business. At this time the meeting was adjourned to permit Andrew Cox from COnfederation to screen slides and explain the it> . continued on page 13 JULY 1994 THE SYDNEY BUSHWALKER PAGE 1-3 From The Clubroom by Maurice Smith Cross COuntry Skiing Gear With AlpspOrts John and Paul from Alpsports, regular guests in the clubroom joined us again on the evening of June. The purpose of their visit this time was to bring us up to date with the latest in cross-country- ski equipment available from their shop, Unfortunately, a clash, with the monthly Meeting of the…Nordic 'Ski Club kept some of our enthusiastic cross Country skiing members out of the clubroom. John -.and Paul brought to the clubroom a range of the current products, including skis, boots, stocks, ski bindings and accessories. For a ,crass country skiing neophyte such as me the session was quite instructive as I learned about the features and geometry of cross country skis, and their advantages and disadvantages: The technicalities involved with cross country skis was an absolute revelation, including issues such as single or double- camber. skis. Similarly, for boots, 'bindings, stocks and so on Carol's Amgzing Antarctic Advehture The evening of 29 June saw cub. member Carol Beale give a slide presentation of her 1994 summer journey to 'Antarctica. A large number of members attended the clubroom for the evening even though the weather was not all that kind. 'However, the Sydney weather was positively balmy compared to the summer temperatures to be had in the Antarctic. Carol told us how she joined. a Russian scientific ship that carried about 90 passengerS, mostly American. She joined the ship in the 'Falkland Islands. The cruise was organised by World' Expeditions and was hosted by Greg' Mortimer, an . Australian mountaineer of considerable note f (Mt. ,Everest amongst many other). In a week long burst of goodImportant Notice To all members/Subscribers Please check your magazine address label. If the marking, *** Subscription Overdue. appears on your label it means that our records indicate that to date we have not received your subscription which became due and payable in March this year. If you have paid in the last two weeks please ignorethis notice If you paid earlier please contact the treasurer once to sort out the problem with our records or the postal system. If you have not paid to date and wish to;

a) Continue your - membership and/or b) Continue to receive the club magazine Please mail your subscription at once. If your subscription does not reach the treasurer within two weeks you will receive no further mailings froth the Club and in due course your name will be removed from the membership/subscribers list without further notice , In the event that for some reason you are unable to respond to this notice, and are removed from membership and/or the mailing list you may at any time apply in. writing to the Club committee for: reinstatement.- Yours sincerely, The committee and treasurer The Sydney Bushwalkers Inc. This nbtice does not apply to those organisations who receive complimentary, exchange or legal deposit copies of the magazine. Our guest's discussed, the relative ineritS: of all of the equipment that they showed the interested members. All of the gear was passed ,around the. room for our inspection and consideration. For those of us. who want to try before investing in a complete set. of gear John and Paul offer ,.a hire service at reasonable, rates for the good quality equipment. ' John and Paul, thanks for coming into the' clubroom and showing us the latest in dross country. skiing equipinento Weather the Ship cruised in the. vicinity of the Antarctic Peninsula. Carol took advantage of the good weather to take a large number of slides of the scenery and animal life. With a day time temperature of comparative. heat wave proportions (3 or 4 degrees) 'the smell of the penguin rookeries was quite strong.. Just as well that Carol couldn't bring back a souvenir to prove that the smell Was strong. Among the animal life captured on the slides were penguins of several varieties, seals ,. and humpback whales. The whales have bad breath according to, Carol. As always, the ice-bergs.. were scenic, twisted and carved by the weather. The ship Visited the Argentinean base in the Antarctid.. Carol, on behalf of the. club members,. thank you for sharing your adventures LI PAGE. 14 THE SYDNEY BUSHW,ALKER JULY 1994 The colours, of Rainforest by Tjavid Trinder Walking stick Palms are numerous in the Washpool rainforest; each one has a row of red seeds hanging like a string of beads. There are bright red mushrooms in an occasional 'group, and strewn on the ground the cast. off red spring eucalypt leaves. The rainforest is plant and fungus heaven. Colours from the whole colour spectrum are present. Tony Holgate gave sixteen the privilege of exploring this rarely visited rainforest for the four day Easter weekend. It. is situated midway between Glen limes and Grafton on the Gwyder Highway. Mushrooms can also be found in orange, dark blue, lilac, purple, black, white and many brownS. Other forms of fungus, Coral, Puff Balls, Star and Bracket are also apparent in, a variety of colours. Lichens cover rocks in coloured blotches, and mosses grow like miniature forests all over old brown logs. Flowers are common but not seen. They are it the top of the canopy enjoying the sun, the only evidence being white and purple remains of Lilly-Pilly flowers that some vandal had dropped from high up leaving a carpet of these in small areas. The sky is bright blue but not often. seen, it was good to see because that colour is rare in, the 'rainforest: , Most. colours that are seen are from the two opposite sides of the colour circle. Green with its variations on the yellow and blue., sides and which when mixed with blacks and greys make the full range of browns. A thick moist leaf litter bed with many browns: covers humus laden black soil and is soft to walk on. Vegetation is lively but not all alive. The whole life cycle is apparent, young plants in the ground or growing on other plants, life forms with the full range of maturity up to enormous ancient eucalypts that disappear above the. lower canopy to become' the only vegetation that uses uninterrupted sunlight. Only one in a hundred of these eucalypts survives. The one, that happens to be growing where a large tree has fallen and 'left a gap in the. canopy. Then there is a race on to see which one can fill the gap: The dying and the dead plants turning back to humus and food for. the next generation, and a scramble for life in this low light moist environment. A great variety of plant species, Christmas orchid, peperomia, native grape, pittosponun, coachwood, to mention a few, most growing in. the ground but many epiphytes, mosses and lichens growing on live and dead trees, rocks and logs.. Bird Nest ferns and Elkhorn grow in a row up the trunk Of a tree, and small orchids grow in, thousands up' a live branch. Vines hang between. trees. in a jumble 'at ground level or strangling a tree. In a creek bed the whole field' of view is green. Lichens and mosses cover logs and rocks, palms and ferns low down, small tree tops in the lower canopy, and trunks small and large Covered by epiphytes, ferns and orchids. There are colours in the birds but they also are not seen, they live in the tops, and their calls are music. Many of the rainforest. plants have fragrances and these stimulate the smell sense and add interest. For the first half day, the walk in followed a disused logging road that in twelve years had changed from a compacted dirt road to thick scrub with tall trees and vines that were difficult to bash through. The first nights camp site was in a. moist branch of Litany gully, which probably had never been visited' before by white man. The group surrounded a. reluctant fire and cooked, talked, laughed, and noticed glowing mushrooms of various colours surrounding them. Duringthe night they -heard small articles, landing on the ground constantly from the tree tops. Day, 2 saw them climbing through vines and bushes along Litany Gully, Hianana Creek,, and Washpool Creek to it's junction With Pi Pi Creek, which is called Pi Pi Flat where the base camp, was set up. On day 3, Stuiday the Easter bunny' had arrived with chocolate eggs: He finds people in the most 'obscure places. 'Several exploratory day walks Went out; some looking for birds and flowers, and others at

new creeks, while others just stayed home. Tony took a group of eight on a fifteen lcilomettes walk down Washpool Creek to Eaglehawk Creek and, up Eaglehawk through more lush rainforest, past waterfalls cascades and pools: This creek is not unlike Myall Creek in , the Ettrema. He then turned southwest over a saddle. Up there the country was drier and warmer. Tony warned to look out for snakes, and shortly after he spotted a large yellow and black', checked carpet Snake. They walked:. down into Babepercy Creek and' followed it to - Pi Pi Creek and back to Camp: On the two, nights at base. camp the group was entertained by some of the group, Who are well accomplished singers during, the apres-eat, pre sleep period.. Day 4 was an early start, a seven and a half hour walk in rain to the cars and a tiring ten hour drive to Sydney. Thus ended a visit to the washpOol National Park, hard work but memories of the rainforest made the trip Vefy valuable. . Tony's group Was lone' Dean, Carol Lubbers, Rosslyn Duncan, AinsleY Morris, Joanna Kerr, Fran Holland, Jo van -Sommers, Michele Powell, Jim Percy, Bill Holland, Eddy Giacomel, Michael Reynolds; Bob Duncan, Geoff Mc Intosh, Henry Roda, David Trinder.