Blue Jacket, RedJacket, Jericho Walk

Date: 23rd - 24th May, 2009

Leader: Robert Bentvelzen.

Participants: Ed Buller, Michael Haynes, Richard McNeil.

Arriving at the corner of the Walhalla and Victor spur roads we donned our packs and set off on what was to be a really good weekend. Rob suggested that we walk up Victor Spur road and then turn off to go along the dry creek track and check out the Harbinger gold mine site.

The miner that worked there last must have just walked away as there were overalls, gumboots and the like left there. We snooped around there for a while and then went on to the New Chum Roasting Kilns. These kilns were used to crack the high quality ore to make it easier to free the gold in the crushing process. The kilns are similar to the ones at Walkerville South only smaller.

Ed noticed a small chimney on the other side of the creek. We went over for a look and saw that it was the chimney of the cast iron boiler that was used to drive the battery. A little further down the creek we also found many bits and pieces of the battery. Time got away quickly and it was 2:30pm before we had lunch.

Knowing that it would fall dark soon after 5pm we decided to walk off track until we found the AAWT and followed it until we reached the Victor Spur Rd. Upon reaching the road we made our way down to the Red Jacket area on the Jordan River. We set camp up in the dark, had tea, told a few stories and were in bed by 9pm.

The next morning I stayed in camp while Ed, Rob and Michael went to Jericho for a look around. They found a tunnel that the miners had dug to divert the course of the river to try and collect the alluvial gold which may have been there.

They got back around 11.30am and I showed them an old cemetery I had found. We had lunch and Rob suggested we walked out via the AAWT so we could do a little navigation on the way. We were glad we didn’t try to walk the Red Jacket the day before in the half dark as we found several unprotected mine shafts near by.

Leaving the AAWT and back on the Victor Spur road we made our way back to the car, to end a very enjoyable weekend.

Richard McNeil

Mushroom Rocks – Mt. Erica

Date: Tuesday 19^th May 2009

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Dorothy Sturgess, Trish Ryan, Tim Clarke, Michael and Heather Haynes, Rod Catchpole, Jenny Cann, Nick Van Ewijk, Stuart Williams, Julie Parker, Ian McLean, Phil Answer, Taya Aarts, Gerry Engelstad (visitor).

We gathered at Erica for the usual greetings and introductions, and to sort transport. After travelling North on the bitumen of the Thomson Valley Road, passing through a major area of burnt bush around the start of the South Face Road, we took a westerly turn to climb steeply up the gravelled Mt. Erica Rd.

The first stop was at the beginning of the Mountain Monarch’s track. This aptly named 20 minute return walk is well worth a visit, featuring a large number of large and very beautiful Mountain Ash trees. Some party bonding was initiated as many arms linked to encircle the trunk of the largest of the trees at the track end. Julie was able to give us some background into the origins of the track and how and why it was set up as a reserve to protect the “Monarchs”.

Tree hugging on Mountain Monarch’s Track.

Alan McMahon from the Friends of Baw Baw National Park was central to the campaign to save this area from logging. There are wooden tent site platforms at the commencement of the walk, apparently used by those who take the commercial tour from the Baw Baw Alpine Resort through to Walhalla.

From here it was a short drive to the Mt. Erica Carpark. After the usual cuppa we discovered the treasures of the 1.5 km Beech Gully Nature Trail, quite delightful with its array of ferns, and Myrtle Beech, Silver Wattle, Sassafras, Shining Gum and Mountain Ash trees. The mossy granite boulders and the bridges over the crystal clear mountain stream add to the magic.

The Trail circled back to the carpark, where we reorganised gear to move into the main part of the day’s walking. We were now on a section of the Australian Alps Walking Track, leading to Mushroom Rocks.

There was an opportunity to appreciate the blackberry clearing work that has been progressively achieved by members of the Friends of Baw Baw NP, and SBWC members. There was also an opportunity, for those planning to return two day hence, to assess what clearing was still to be done! A challenge awaited!

Tim, Phil and Rod on Mushroom Rock.

Mushroom Rocks provided much interest as a lunch spot. Eastern Spinebills were enjoying the abundant Mountain Correa and there were points of interest to explore after we ‘refueled’. The nearby Rover Hut was visited, and the Mushroom Rock was climbed by some of the more agile in the group. The early days of skiing on the Baw Baws was at this end of the plateau and members of the Mount Erica Division of the Ski Club of Victoria had created a unique shelter under one of the largest of the granite boulders on the mountain, big enough to accommodate some 20 bunks. Little remains except for the boulders, but a telltale line of bitumen shows where walls were sealed to keep out the wind and rain.

The climb to Mt. Erica is steep and it wasn’t long before the Ash and Wattles of lower altitudes were giving way to Snow Gums.

We stopped at the remembrance plaque to marathon runner Geoff Watt, who died while on an alpine training run on the 5th Sept 1969. There was no evidence of our April snowfalls but ice crystals lingering in shaded areas of the track had thoughts turning towards a winter wonderland.

We stopped briefly at the summit of Mt. Erica (1512m.), before going on a further few hundred metres to the Talbot Hut ruin. All that remains is the chimney, of what was one of three shelter huts along the Baw Baw Tourist Track (from Warburton to Walhalla), built by the Government in 1907. Cows had already done much to demolish the hut by the time the 1939 fires roared across the plateau and completed its destruction.

By now it was time to turn for “home”, with little time to dawdle as daylight started to fade. Though retracing our steps, the return trip wasn’t without interest. The array of colours of Snow Gum trunks was accentuated by the setting sun. Michael had a close up view of a Lyrebird flying down from a rock face and across the track in front of him. Other Lyrebirds were in full song as we continued our descent.

It was 5.00 p.m. by the time we reached the carpark, later than the normal finish time for these third Tuesday walks. There was no time for the usual coffee shop debrief so the dregs of vacuum flasks had to suffice!

All in all it was a busy, but very satisfying day, with lots of highlights. Thanks to all the group for sharing a very pleasant few hours – and great to have some new members along on their first walk with the club.

Ron Cann

Bike Ride, Jells Park to Patterson River

Date: Sunday, May 17, 2009

Leader: Richard McNeil

Participants: Wendy Cartledge, Fran Miller.

We arrived at Jells Park south carpark at 9am and after a quick cuppa we were on our way.

Soon after starting we passed Coryhamwarrabul Wetlands. This area was made up of a swamp which fed a small lake. We stopped here briefly then were on our way again as there were 27km to go before lunch.

Riding along the path we passed the Tirhatuan Lakes golf course and the Dandenong police paddocks. As most of the land we were riding along is owned by Melbourne water the area is kept clean and tidy with plenty of rest stops along the way.

We arrived at the start of the Patterson River. This area comprises the National Watersports area.

We were lucky enough to see a speed boat race going on as we rode along this section of the river. Soon after we arrived at the mouth of the river where there was plenty of action happening.

Parks Victoria was officially opening three artificial reefs that they had made to encourage snapper into the bay. Several schools were having a kayak regatta with over eighty boats. We had lunch on the breakwater at the mouth of the river, then rode our bikes back to Jells Park via the same route with a tail wind.

Richard McNeil

Warragul – Drouin Bike Ride

Date: Sunday May 3^rd 2009

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Phil and Julie Waring, Richard McNeil, Fran Miller, Rob Russell, Rob Bentvelzen, Dorothy Sturgess, Deb and Bill Wiglesworth, Jenny Cann, Elspeth Sinclair (visitor)

The recently completed “Warragul-Drouin Two Towns Trail” was the venue for this bike ride. The surface is excellent for smooth riding, a 3m wide concrete path! It parallels the Warragul - Drouin Rd for much of the way, before descending an impressive wooden ramp to pass under the Princes Freeway at Buln Buln Rd, continuing through newly created wetlands in Drouin and on to the town centre.

Riders met at Warringa Court in Warragul and after a cuppa headed down into Brooker Park, linking with Warragul’s linear trail network and the Arts Discovery Trail. We spent quite some time on these smooth gravel paths, stopping at many of the 48 bollards, beautifully painted by local artists, and at other artistic stopping points including the Mosaic Compass Rose.

Elspeth, Fran, Jenny, Deb, Julie

The group had been together up to this point, but some now went ahead while Bill’s bike received some major surgery. By the time Bill had finished the task he was certainly not going to be invited to serve afternoon tea!

We eventually ended up together at a bakery in Drouin for the compulsory “cuppa and cake”. There had been a couple of hilly challenges but overall it was an easy ride. Some had added a little extra excitement as the track left Warragul, with a couple of laps of the BMX track, reminiscent of childhood days!

L-R Bill, Jenny, Deb.

It was an out and back ride, so with different priorities and no longer any questions about the route, riders made their way back to Warragul in smaller groups. The BMX track was again too tempting for some to pass by without another tasting!

Most stayed on for a BBQ, and an enjoyable couple of hours around the backyard drum fire. It had been a very pleasant afternoon and evening with some 26 km covered by the time we added up all the bit and pieces. Phil had managed to clock 9km more than the rest of us – the initial reading on his computer when he took it off the bike rack after he and Julie’s drive up from Melbourne. Seen the spinning wheels of bikes as cars speed past??!!

Ron Cann.

Bushfire Fencing Support

Date: Tuesday 21^st April, 2009

Participants: Gayle Shields, Jenny and Ron Cann from SBWC; other community volunteers were John and Sue.

We were just 5 among the many volunteers who have been assisting farmers in the Labertouche area with refencing of fire-affected properties.

We met Club member Graham Duell at the Labertouche Hall a little after 9 am. Graham has been involved with fire recovery programs since the fires in the Labertouche area, and is the VFF Fencing Coordinator for this zone. In this role he has to facilitate the repair/replacement of all damaged boundary fences by using volunteer labour. There are around 300 properties on Graham’s list with fire damaged/destroyed fencing, with probably 1000km of fencing to do! Much has been achieved but there is much still to be done.

We were given a safety briefing, gloves and safety glasses and after signing on the dotted line for insurance purposes we headed off to a property in the vicinity of Glen Cromie Caravan Park. We three from SBWC were eager to help but somewhat “green” when it came to fencing. Fortunately for us we had been placed with fellow volunteers John and Sue, both of whom had already donated many days and had come to the task with fencing expertise.

The aim was to clear the extensive boundary fence of wire, in preparation for a contractor to come through to put in new posts prior to new wire being run. We were happy to be shown the way by John and after a very short while were working as a well-oiled team of five. John had explained that rolling up the barbed wire followed the same principles as rolling up a ball of wool, and this proved true (just a little bigger, a little heavier and with just a few more barbs)!

We had got right down to one end of the fence line (by the Tarago River) as it approached 12 o’clock, so made our way back to cars for a welcome lunch break. The nearby burnt out remains of the farm house lay in stark contrast to the lush green grass of our lunch spot. A chat with a local Landcare Officer gave us answers as to the remaining fences to be cleared.

The intensity of the February 7^th fires was dramatically illustrated as we continued along the Jindivick Road boundary. Over a distance of several hundred metres there were no staples to be removed to free the strands of barbed wire …there were no posts left at all, absolutely no trace of them, totally reduced to ashes!

By mid afternoon the job was done. We strolled back to the cars, said our farewells to John and Sue, and headed back into Warragul. Much good work had been done and we were left with a real sense of the satisfaction that comes from teamwork in achieving a common goal with good people.

Ron Cann

Post script

This fencing project is continuing and Graham would be happy to hear from you with offers to assist – 56267237.

There are many members further east in the Latrobe area, and the coordinator there is Ben Thexton on thexton@wideband.net.au or 0428 495 691. Graham is “sure he would be delighted if any members were interested in assisting in the Churchill fire areas”.

Kiandra to Namadgi along the Australian Alps Walking Track: The Last Section

Distance 136 km approx.

Walkers: Eddie Dyt, Ed Buller, and Rob Bentvelzen.

Thursday night before Easter, Eddie and I travelled to Cann River Caravan Park to cover the first part of our journey to Tharwa.

Good Friday

The following morning we met Ed Buller at the hotel in Cann River, (Where else would you meet Ed Buller,) and proceeded to Tharwa via Cooma where we stopped for a coffee. From Tharwa we drove to Namadgi Visitors’ Centre to register for our walk in the park, and leave Ed Buller’s car at Namadgi.

From Namadgi via Adaminaby and lunch, we drove to Kiandra and parked Eddie’s car at the NSW Dept of Main Roads depot. The car shuffle was now complete, the time was 3.45 pm Good Friday afternoon and we were ready to commence our walk.

We had to bear in mind that it would be dark soon after 6 pm, so we walked about 5 km to Chance Creek and set up camp on a slight rise overlooking the creek. We managed to hang out until 7.30pm before we went to bed. It had started to rain.

Easter Saturday

The following morning, in fine weather, we walked to the Murrumbidgee River for lunch, and then set off in the rain for Dairyman’s Creek for our next camp. Today we saw our first of many brumby herds. Again it rained right after tea till about 9.00 pm. Bedtime about 7.30pm.

Easter Sunday

We were up each morning by 6.00 am to ensure we covered the required distance each day, and to be at our nominated campsite by 4.00pm to allow us to set up camp and cook tea before it got dark. Today we travelled from Dairyman’s Creek to the junction of Mosquito Creek Fire Trail and Blue Waterholes Fire Trail, about 25km. At lunch time we also took the opportunity to visit Old Currango Homestead, circa 1870, famous for its walls being covered in ancient newspaper.

Easter Monday

This morning (without backpacks) we visited the Cooleman Caves and the waterfall at White Fish Cave, a return journey of about 12 km to the tents. As we had a frost during the night the tents were left to defrost and dry out while we were away. On our return we had time for a cuppa, then pack up the tents and continued with our journey for another 8 km, to the Valve House at the termination of the Goodradigbee Aqueduct. This was a good water point, so long as you have a long rope and a billy. Again a bit of rain during the night, but the morning turned out to be fine.

Tuesday 14 April.

Quite an eventful day as we visited Oldfields Hut for our first break in the morning. A lone walker was still on site having spent a couple of days there. This day we left NSW and entered ACT via Murray Gap . One of our first real climbs for the walk but not as steep as we thought as contours on the maps were at 10m intervals instead of 20m. So we had a lovely little creek to sit by for lunch, and also have a sponge. After lunch we passed Cotter Hut, or house, it is quite a substantial building used by the Namadgi National Park rangers. We decided to camp at Pond Creek Flat as it was the only water we had seen since crossing the Cotter River. This was an excellent decision as we were not to see water until we crossed Sawpit Creek the next day.

As Ed Buller was pitching his tent he realised that he had left his tent pegs at the lunch spot. As it was too far to go back so we gave him four of our pegs and used some small sticks for the rest.

Wednesday 15 April.

We started at 7.30am sharp today as we had to cover about 24km today. Uphill to Cotter Gap and by lunch time we had disturbed a large number of kangaroos in the Orroral River valley. This valley is also home to the former Orroral Space Tracking Station. Ruins of which can be seen from the river crossing where we had lunch. At this point we were discussing the merits of carrying water to the next camp at Honeysuckle Creek. As luck would have it, we met some walkers who had walked from Honeysuckle Creek Tracking Station and they advised that it had full camping facilities with toilets and plenty of water. No hot showers, but we were able to have a little campfire and not go to bed until 8.30 pm.

Thursday 16 April

Last day on the AAWT. For a quick diversion we climbed Booroomba Rocks and had a view of Canberra in the distance. The final 20km to the Namadgi Visitors Centre were completed by 3.00pm after a final steep descent down Mt Tennent. A final note was written in the intentions book. The journey which began in 1995 was now completed. As it happened, Ed Buller had a couple of Crackenback stubbies in the boot which were quite refreshing. After purchasing souvenirs from the visitor centre we headed home.

A big thank you to Eddie and Ed who both supplied their cars to enable the walk to be completed, without the need to arrange public transport. Their humour also helped to pass the time on the long easy stretches and their cooking was a delight to eat.

I would like to thank everyone who has participated and assisted in the completion of this walk. It is a wonderful amazing walk to enjoy. I would encourage all members to try and walk all or part of the AAWT. Now is the time to think of a new challenge and another track to conquer.

Forever Forward Rob Bentvelzen.

1000 Steps, Dandenong Ranges National Park

Date: Sunday April 5th

Participants: Gaye Shields (leader), Phil and Julie Waring, Phil Answer, Fran Miller

Even arriving at the Upper Ferntree Gully car park at 9.50am did not give us much of a choice of car parks, but we managed to find a spare one and had a coffee at one of the tasteful wooden tables and benches, while we waited for Phil and Julie and the Ranger. Phil and Julie turned up and introductions were made because we had not met the ‘townies’ before. The Ranger took a bit longer, but arrived with a booklet on the history of the park and maps for all, so was forgiven.

We set out in lovely sunshine along with approximately 3000 others of varying shapes and ages. Many people use the steps as a training ground for their Kokoda track walk. The 1000 steps is also called the Kokoda Track Memorial walk and there are plaques at various intervals along the way describing places on the Kododa track. It is a very steep climb and the steps are narrow, apparently the same width as the Kododa track, but there are hand rails all the way and it only takes about half an hour to reach the top.

We left most of the other walkers behind at the top of the steps as we continued up to One Tree Hill – not so aptly named anymore as there are many trees of a decent size but back in 1850 all but one had been felled to make surveying possible.

After a cuppa in the stone shelter (it was now drizzling) we found Tysons track which is wide enough for a vehicle and followed it around to Mystic track then onto Hansens track and finally a long trudge up Chandlers track to Chandlers hill where we stopped for lunch. The weather had cleared and it was very pleasant walking through open forest.

The route down Macedon track was steep in places, but quite wide and we passed through sparse tree ferns and eucalypts. After threatening for awhile, the rain finally started falling and we walked the last km in the rain.

Back at the car park we said goodbye to Julie and Phil and squeezed into a picnic shelter with a big group of happy Chinese for a warm drink before the journey home.

Thankyou Gayle for a strenuous and interesting walk in the Dandenongs.

Fran Miller

Bushrangers Bay to Cape Schanck

Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Participants: Ron Cann (Leader), Jenny Cann, Dorothy Sturgess, Gayle Shields, Stuart Williams & Michael Haynes.

We met in Warragul at 8:00 am and drove about 1½ hours to Bushrangers Bay Car Park, where Ron and Dorothy ‘car shuttled’ to Cape Schanck and back. After the ‘obligatory’ coffee and biscuit we started the walk in cool, but mostly sunny conditions.

The walk was graded easy, on a sandy well-maintained track between bushland dominated by banksias. We saw (and heard) many wattle birds, and soon after starting we saw the first of several large mobs of grey kangaroos. They were large animals and clearly in no hurry to move away from us. The track stayed within Mornington Peninsula National Park, but was often within sight of rolling green hills with grazing stock. For a while we followed Main Creek, which was in a deep gully on our left (East). Soon after 11 o’clock we reached a track junction

and diverged down to Bushrangers Bay beach. This is a delightful, unspoiled cove and we sat on the rocks in sunshine for morning tea. Ron told us the stories of how the bay got its name from two escaping Tasmanian convicts who had themselves set ashore here, and the various explanations of their fate. After this we retraced our steps to the main track, which now was mostly westward and continued until we reached the Cape Schanck car park. Here we ate our lunch at the picnic tables watched with interest by some yellow robins, grey butcherbirds and magpies.

After lunch we went on a guided tour of the Cape Schanck Lighthouse, followed by a visit to the lighthouse museum. The lighthouse has been fully automated since 1977.

Prior to that it was continuously manned and the keepers’ cottages are now available for overnight accommodation. Later this year it will celebrate 150 years of service. The view from the top was spectacular, though the wind was cold and keen. Our guide told us of the extensive damage caused by strong winds last weekend.

We then followed a boardwalk to the Cape, descending many steps to a neck of land where erosion is very evident and which they are trying to revegetate. Finally, we finished off an enjoyable day with a visit to a coffee shop and bakery in Flinders, before driving back to Warragul.

Michael Haynes

Mt Tanjil Navigation Walk

Date: 21st March, 2009

Leader: Ron Cann
Participants: Denis Nagle, Tim Clarke Eileen Laidlaw, Phil Answer, Jim Stranger, Richard McNeil.

Meeting at the corner of Cervi Road and Merv track Ron gathered us together and explained what he wanted to achieve for the day. Not only was the use of compasses on the agenda but he also wanted us to attain a knowledge of the lie of the land.

So with this in mind we set off on Merv track stopping every now and again to check our location, using the compass and using the visual information on the map, i.e. contours, gullies and hills.

Along the track we came across a mob of trail bike riders. Seeing us they slowed down, stopped and let us know how many of them there were. They rode off without spinning their wheels or raising any dust (so they are not all the same).

After walking on the track for about 4 km we headed off track and started taking bearings.

Consulting map on the track

The bush was quite dense because of the regrowth from the bush fires a few years ago. This made the going very slow. We reached a dry creek bed and Ron declared it lunch time. It seemed like no time at all and lunch was over. Heading south along the creek bed it soon became overgrown, so we followed a gully through thick bush and eventually ended up back on Merv track and made our way back to the cars.

I am sure that everyone who attended this walk learnt a lot from the day. And I know I’ll be looking forward to another navigation day.

Many thanks to Ron.

Richard McNeil

Mt. Baw Baw Alpine Resort to Mt. St. Phillack

Date: Tues 17th March 2009

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Phil Answer, Gayle Shields, Tim Clarke, and visitors Greg and Virginia Pipe.

Both vehicles travelled to the Baw Baw Resort Village via the South Face Road. Though a longer way from Warragul (perhaps 15 km) there was little time difference from the conventional route via Noojee, Icy Creek and Tanjil Bren

The village greeted us with misty, penetrating rain and a very cool breeze. We made use of the visitors’ shelter at the car park to change into protective gear, have a cuppa, hand out maps and to make ourselves know to visitors Greg and Virginia.

We left the village along the Village Trail, having viewed, with interest, the infrastructure without its familiar blanket of snow. The wettest part of the track was at Pudding Basin (yes, a soggy pudding at that). We learned afterwards from the resort management that there are plans to reroute the track here onto higher ground, as part of the development of the tourist link for bushwalking between the Village and Walhalla.

At Baragwanath Flat we had a choice of tracks, deciding to take the most easterly, a sometimes ill-defined track that leads across the headwaters of the West Tanjil Creek to Freemans Flat and St Phillack Saddle. The lack of definition led us to a deal more scrub bashing than we were hoping for, especially given the wet conditions! But what would a walk on the Plateau really be without a taste of Richea!

We were interested to see that the signage to the Baw Baw Village at Phillack Saddle pointed to the track we had just come on, the route that used to be marked with a temporary pole line in winter and now remains unmarked over winter and is not maintained as a summer route. Many walkers coming from an easterly direction along the AAWT will have been confused at this point. In fact, the main route to the village, well maintained and marked with tall permanent snow poles, departs from the AAWT just a couple of hundred metres to the west. It is also signposted, but without local knowledge or a good map, westerly bound walkers wouldn’t get as far as the start of this track before heading south.

Phillack Saddle might be a pleasant, grassy spot with lovely vistas, but it wasn’t offering either with the still bleak conditions, so we moved on to the summit Cairn in search of a better lunch spot, passing a more sheltered rocky area which we returned to shortly afterwards. At the summit there was discussion about which of Mt Phillack or Mt Baw was the highest – was the map correct or the signage? Altitude differences between the GPS units that Phil and Ron had brought along didn’t help to clarify the issue. I think that we concluded that Baw Baw was a metre higher than Phillack, but on the other hand I thought that someone with a greater passion for these fine points had said with some authority that it was the other way around … ?!

Tim, Gayle, Phil, Virginia and Greg at the summit of Mt. St.Phillack

The rain stopped in time for us to have a dry lunch, very welcome. It remained dry, though misty, for the return journey towards the village via the main track, well cleared thanks to previous track maintenance operations by Friends of Baw Baw NP, SBWC and Parks Vic staff. At the Village Trail we turned right (west) and continued to 5 Ways from where we climbed steadily to the summit of Baw Baw via the Summit Trail. Before reaching the Cairn, Tim led us on a brief side trip to view an archaeological site.

The cairn is much as it was in the many historical photos that one sees of early visits to the Plateau, facilitated by the opening up of the Baw Baw Tourist Track in 1907. It was used as a survey reference in 1903. After a brief inspection we headed back to the village via the ski slopes. At the “bowl” we climbed again, up the beginners’ slope to Tank Hill, then a short “Home Run” to the modern restaurant which overlooks the valley below. The vistas still weren’t great but the coffee and chatty debrief were.

We went our separate ways from the carpark, Phil and Tim back to the Valley via the South Face Road, the rest of us back to Warragul on the bitumen. After the rain it was a delightfully scenic drive, with several lyrebirds and a wallaby to top off a very pleasant day.

Ron Cann

Razorback Walk to Federation Hut

Date: 14^th – 15^th March 2009

Leader: Julie Parker

Participants: Rob Bentvelzen, Eileen Laidlaw, Nick Van Ewijk, Peter Maffei, Robyn Shingles.

We met at the Caravan Park near Dargo on Friday evening; a lovely peaceful setting on the Wonnangatta River. We awoke to a beautiful sunny day, packed up and headed through Dargo and on to the High Plains road, looking forward to a scenic walk, although as we neared Hotham we hit a heavy fog.

We parked near Diamantina Hut and geared up to set off – walking cheerfully into the eerie fog/low lying cloud as we were sure that it would soon clear to a beautiful day. Following a couple of hours of ups and downs during which we caught glimpses of scenic views through the fog/cloud, we stopped for a leisurely lunch, and to admire Rob’s new toy: the Jet Boil stove, just as the wind started picking up.

As we set off again we noticed dark clouds gathering on neighbouring ridges and hoped that the weather would go around us. This was not to be with a storm starting when we were still over 2 hours from the hut. We quickly donned our wet weather gear and continued on. As we headed across the top of a ridge, we were accompanied by wind, rain, hail, thunder and lightning (a bit scary but also exciting!).

We met a number of day walkers on their way out in quite a hurry to get out of the rain – interesting to see how unprepared they were with some merely wearing ponchos over shorts in a vain attempt to keep out the rain. There was very little shelter too as the area is recovering from past bushfires and most trees were below shoulder height.

Not having done the walk before, Peter & Robyn resigned themselves to missing out on the views and we all put our heads down and plodded on through the rain.

We reached Federation Hut around 4.30, having decided there was little point in climbing to the Feathertop summit as there would be no visibility and we were pretty wet. We took advantage of an easing in the rain to quickly erect our tents then hopped into the cosy hut along with a number of other walkers trying to dry out.

A hot meal warmed us and our spirits and while half opted for an early night, Rob, Peter & Robyn played a few rounds of cards before retiring for the night. The wind and rain continued on for a while but eventually stopped and you could feel the temperature drop (we found out later it got down to -2^oC)

We awoke in the morning to ice on our tents and a relatively clear sky. With some of us with wet gear and lacking sleep, the group decided to split up. Rob and Peter returned to Diamantina Hut to collect the vehicles and then meet up with the rest of us. We opted to walk out via the Bungalow Spur down to Harrietville – a similar distance to the return to Diamantina Hut but an easier downhill walk.

After a late lunch followed by a hot chocolate, we headed back home after an enjoyable weekend.

Robyn Shingles

Mt St Gwinear to Mt Baw Baw to Mt St Gwinear

Date: Mon 9th March, 2009

Leader: Fran Miller

Walkers: Gayle Shields, Phil Answer, Eileen Laidlaw and Eileen’s friend, Bev. McGuire

The 3 day walk planned became a 1 day walk due to lack of numbers for the lodge accommodation.

We had an early start - 9.30 at St. Gwinear car park, because it was a big walk, 18km, but really quite an easy one with day packs and lovely weather.

There were a few wildflowers still blooming – pink trigger plants, the odd everlasting daisy and many small growing gentians. The views were a bit hazy with some smoke still in the air but the weather was great for walking and we made it to Baw Baw in about 3 hours with two stops along the way.

We entered the village by walking down the Maltese Cross ski-run, the tow locked up for summer with the T bars removed. There were a few sight seers in the village, some fit bike riders and also some motor bike riders. We had lunch at a wooden table and bench across from the new café at the top of the old chairlift run.

The return route took us through the village and onto the eastern side of the village trail, past the turn off to Baragwanath Flats and on to where we had joined the western part of the trail in the morning. We retraced out steps to Mt St Phillack and then before climbing to Mt St Gwinear we veered off to the left and followed the yellow snow poles around the northern side of St Gwinear. This route is flatter and has good views. We arrived back at the cars at 4.30 and after a welcome coffee courtesy of Phil, headed home.

Fran Miller

The Overland Track, Tasmania

Date: 22nd Feb - 1st March, 2009

Leaders: Claire Cassidy/Peter Ryan

Participants: Ed Buller, Robert Bentvelzen, Richard McNeil, Cathy Almond, Wendy and Geoff Cartledge

Tuesday, 24 Mar 2009

Having thawed out over night, we left Windemere hut in the cool morning mist. We were heading for Pelion hut some 17 km away. The track passes through lightly timbered country and then opens up onto the pine forest moor where there are numerous tarns. We made a slight turn off to have our morning tea at the fourth gorge lookout where the view of Mt Oakleigh is spectacular and its dolerite columns are easily visible.

Back on track we soon pass Mt Pelioned West (1554m).and we were back into the forest where it was very noticeable that, because of all the foot traffic, the dirt around the trees has been eroded and this has exposed the tree roots for a great deal of the trip

Further on we reached the Pelion Plains where there are two huts. The first one is the old Pelion Hut. This takes a 15 minute detour off the track and the other is the Pelion Hut where we were to stay for the night. Arriving ten minutes later we set up camp and we also found out that there was a good swimming hole back at the old Pelion hut, so we went back for a dip.

The water was so cold we could only stay in for a minute. We had walked a total of 50 minutes for a 1 minute dip but it was worth it. With the weather being fine that night, the animals were out and we spotted possums, wallabies and spotted quolls. Off to bed now to listen to Rob snore all night.

Richard McNeil

Friday 26th was to Windy Ridge hut.

The walk was very up and down, rock and over tree roots. We stopped to view D'Alton hut on the way, an old trapper’s hut that is Heritage listed but only used in emergencies. The area surrounding was very grassy and picturesque, a lovely spot on a sunny day for an extended lunch break.

There were 2 optional side trips to waterfalls. Wendy, Ed and I opted to see the first 2, located on the same path, D'Alton and Fergusson. We thought D'Alton falls were the pick, with rocky outcrops like stages jutting from the main cliff face, causing the water to cascade over them.

According to the guide book, Hartnett Falls (the second option) was the 'not to be missed' spectacle. A photo in the guide book indicates Hartnett Falls to

be most impressive when in full flow, which it wasn't at the time. It was certainly an impressive volume of water, and we were able to view it from top and bottom. The noise made it hard to have a conversation with anyone. It was a lovely spot to sit and contemplate life for a while.

Windy Ridge Hut is amazing, opened July last year and as big as Pelion although seems bigger. There is a large drying are as you walk in, 3 rooms sleeping 16 each and a separate level down stairs for eating. Skylights all around. All huts have composting toilets and water tanks. There were heaps of wooden platforms for tents here too. At night all the packs go into the huts as the possums will eat through the tent if they smell food!

We continued Rob's habit of playing 500 until after dark. None of the nights were very late, as we were all tired from walking.

Cathy Almond

Saturday 28th Feb

A restful night was spent at Windy Ridge Hut – probably the newest and most spacious hut so far. Only a few people in residence, so some put up tents while others went for the in-house option.

We split into two groups at this stage with Pete and Claire staying at the hut and the rest of us heading for the Echo Point Hut (half way down Lake St Clair).

Buoyed by supposedly lighter packs and anticipation of the lake we made good progress and reached the Lake (the deepest lake in Australia at 167m) for lunch and a cool river dip at Narcissus Hut.

Some large serpent like creatures were spotted in the area causing an increased vigil around the lunch area and the walk out along the lakeside as we headed to Echo Hut. This part of the walk was very impressive with lovely forest around the lake side and a good track with absence of tree roots. Echo Point Hut certainly lived up to its reputation and would be one of the best sites on the walk.

Advice that rodents were the dominant hut inhabitants led us all to put up tents and hang packs from branches. A custom made jetty allowed for a relaxing swim by all in pleasant temperate waters and the anticipation of a short walk out the last day led to a most relaxing afternoon. Following dinner Richard was kind enough to provide some catering advice about custard production that proved useful (and tasted excellent also). All then retired after another excellent day.

Ed Buller

The Overland Track, Tasmania

(continued)

Date: 22^nd February - 1^st March

Leaders: Claire Cassidy/Peter Ryan

Participants: Ed Buller, Robert Bentvelzen, Richard McNeil, Cathy Almond, Wendy and Geoff Cartledge

Tuesday 24 Feb 2009.

We woke up with about 30 other people in Watervalley Hut. Very appropriately named. It was wet- rained all night. So it was a bit of a bunfight for stove space to cook our breakfast. Luckily I didn’t have to fight anyone for space, as they were all bigger than me.

Our mission today was to walk 8km from Watervalley Hut to Windermere Hut. Sounds simple, not far to go, but add some strong cold winds, and horizontal rain and the degree of difficulty increased somewhat. We left Watervalley Hut about 8.15am, and were first to arrive at Windermere Hut at 11.30am to claim our sleeping areas in the hut, i.e. bottom bunks, so we didn’t have to climb over other sleeping people during the night. The others arrived in the next hour and the place looked like a laundry with everyone trying to dry out wet gear. Richard, our resident plumber, was given HERO status as he was the only one able to light the gas heater. The gas heater was allowed to be lit as soon as temperature dropped below 10 degrees, which it did for the rest of the afternoon. The heater only went for 45 minutes at a time and had to be relit each time. Well done to Richard. For entertainment during the afternoon we played cards, 500, and it was a delight to beat Peter Ryan. No doubt he will be out for revenge.

The whole trip was well organised by Peter Ryan and Claire Cassidy, and a very enjoyable and challenging trip. Just to see the temperate rain forest gave a new meaning to walking, and understanding why these areas need to be cared for and saved for all time.

Rob Bentvelzen

Warburton / Lilydale Bike Ride

Date: 20/21^st September.

Leader: Robert Bentvelzen,

Participants: Andy Runciman, Peter & Robyn Maffei.

We met at the Warburton Caravan Park where Peter and Robyn had already set up camp. The bikes were assembled and tyres pumped up. A start was made about 10am with the weather looking very dodgy. We made good way along the rail trail and everybody was quite happy with proceedings. By the time we had reached Woori Yallock station the rain was slanting down and very windy.

We stopped for a break sheltering under some trees, and when the rain had eased a little we put on rain coats and headed off again. The track had turned mushy and the rear tyre was splashing up gravelly mud onto our bikes and backs. The weather improved as the miles went by, and by 1.00pm it had stopped raining. Robyn stopped at the Cogs café and the three men travelled into Lilydale and up to the college fence.

The rail trail has been diverted here and as the track was poor we decided to turn around and go back to the café at Mt Evelyn for lunch. We were back on the bikes at 3.00pm and caught up with Robyn past Woori Yallock station on the way home. A refreshing hot shower at the park (5 minutes for $1) and we were ready to have tea at the Wild Thyme Café.

The next morning Robyn drove us up to the top of Mt Donna Buang and the three men rode bikes down the hill 18km, and back into Warburton for a late coffee and an early lunch. After lunch Peter and Robyn headed into Melbourne for a spot of shopping and Andy and I headed home.

Despite the rain on Saturday we had a good weekend. The caravan park was good, site fees were $12 per tent site, the meals at the café were good, and the Saturday evening in the park was quiet, no noisy neighbours. Robyn had a good training run for her overseas bike riding next month.

Thank you all for your company and a great weekend.

Robert Bentvelzen.

St Gwinear Snow Shoe Shuffle

Date: Sunday 17^th August

Leader: John Sunderland

Walkers: Eileen Laidlaw, Michael Haynes, Richard McNeil.

Meeting at Mt St Gwinear carpark, we were greeted by John Sunderland who had the kettle on for us so we sat down to plan the route of the days activities. We decided to take the track beside the main toboggan run, back around to the main trail, past the rock shelter and on to Tullicoutty Glen and return.

Finishing our cuppa we slipped on our snow shoes and started off for the day. The weather was fine but overcast at this time so we rugged up. By the time we reached the viewing platform we had all warmed up so off came the first layer of clothing. Leaving there we headed in a northerly direction until we reached the main trail.

The snow under foot was deep and solid and there were no problems with any of us falling through the snow when we hit a soft spot, as happened last year. With light but dry snow falling we crossed the summit of Mt St Gwinear and headed for Gwinear flats for a bite of lunch. But, as the wind blew, the ice and snow on the trees that we were sitting under started to drop on us, so we packed up and headed for Tullicoutty Glen. We crossed the AAWT and only went about 100 metres before we experienced a mini white out. So we decided not to go any further and headed back towards the carpark via the yellow pole line and then the main trail. Snow started falling again and this made a great ending for the day. thanks to Parks Victoria for putting on this very enjoyable activity.

Richard McNeil

Phillip Island - Koala Conservation Centre to Rhyll

Date: Tuesday August 19^th 2008

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Graham and Liz Duell, Michael and Heather Haynes, Dorothy Sturgess.

We met at San Remo at 9.15 and after a brief cuppa overlooking the entrance into Westernport Bay, we headed to the start of the walk at the Harbison Rd. car park, near to the Koala Conservation Centre. The car shuttle to nearby Rhyll was quickly accomplished and we were soon ready to commence the relatively short walk.

Before we could get underway we were greeted by a rather large walking party coming from the direction of Rhyll. It was a group from the Peregrine Club (who come from Bass Coast localities), out on their weekly Tuesday walk. Their significant numbers pointed to the value of a regularly programmed mid-week activity, enabling members to plan for a walk as part of their weekly schedule.

The track led us through the Oswin Roberts Reserve, the last remaining remnant bushland on Phillip Island. It provides for easy walking through attractive forest, with several optional loops. On reaching the Cowes–Rhyll Rd. it crosses over to a boardwalk and continues through swampy melaleuca scrub.

Conservation Hill is the highest point of the walk and was a good place for our first break. The Jack Oswin observation tower enables good views to French Island in the north and a look over the otherwise restricted Rhyll Wetland and Bird Sanctuary to the south (a variety of duck species, ibis and royal spoonbills). Binoculars definitely recommended! Signage explained the origins and purpose of the dilapidated fence of concrete posts and steel cross bars that we had passed earlier. Various theories had been postulated! We learned that it was built in 1937 to surround the wetlands area, giving employment for locals during the depression. It was hoped that the fence design would provide a protective enclosure for the koalas and wildlife living here.

Soon after, the track leads onto a well-constructed mangrove boardwalk, enabling one to walk out over the muddy shoreline to a small inlet amongst the extensive mangroves. There was discussion about the positives and negatives of mangroves, environmentally valuable for stabilizing shorelines and fish breeding habitats but their spread is not welcomed by canoeists who see sandy landing points becoming muddy and inaccessible!

Dorothy, Heather and Michael, Graham and Liz.

Rhyll Inlet is a significant feeding and breeding area for resident and migratory birds. The remainder of the walk followed its southern shoreline. Along the way we found a spot that matched the criteria we had agreed was desirable for a lunch stop: shelter from the wind, sunshine, and a first class view! On a sand spit in the distance the rising tide disturbed a large flock of small seabirds (Graham thought perhaps plovers). While we ate they whirled as one, back and forth over their former “territory”, as if waiting for the tide to recede! What stamina!

Soon we were passing the first of the Rhyll holiday homes and a little further reached Michael and Heather’s car. They took Graham back to collect his car then headed for home, pleased to have an early finish with family celebrations to attend to. Graham returned for the rest of us, now in the centre of the very quiet Rhyll.

Churchill Island was the perfect place to wind up the day, a cuppa and cake in the visitors’ centre, and a short stroll past the Highland Cattle to the Lt. James Grant Monument (first crops in Victoria in 1801) and the 500 year old Moonah trees. On the way home we took a short side trip to Punchbowl, for views across the waters back to Phillip Island’s Cape Woolamai and to the east along the coast towards Kilcunda and the route of the George Bass Coastal Walk.

It hadn’t been a long walk, but it was great to be out and about for a winter stroll, with very pleasant company and an interesting part of the world to spend a few hours in. Picking one of the only fine and sunny days in a mostly overcast and rainy August was an added bonus!

Ron Cann

Warbuton Weekend

Date: 30th & 31^st August 2008

Unfortunately we had no takers but Pete and I had a very enjoyable weekend. It was a bit disappointing that no one wanted to join us!!!

We had a slight change of plan, we had booked a cabin at the Warburton caravan park but due to a wrong digit on the credit card number our booking was cancelled. As they had no available cabins we booked a room at the Black Spur Motel.

On Saturday we had a lazy start to the day. We drove to Mt Sugarloaf car park. The sign said

“Mt Sugarloaf, Canyon Track 30 minutes, hard. Wells Cave Track 30 minutes, very hard”

We took the second option, the more challenging approach, which turned out to be more of a climb than a walk. With high open exposed rock faces to negotiate as well as Wells Cave, which is more like a split in a large rock face that you have to scramble through. It’s good to be small at times, Pete had a tight squeeze. It took a lot longer than 30 minutes. From the top we walked along the Razorback Ridge Track to the Jawbones and the Farmyard, which had many exposed rocky outcrops. It was sad to see a plaque on the rocks marking where a 15-year-old boy had died a few years ago.

From the Farmyard we dropped down Jawbone Creek Track, which drops very steeply to the Jawbone car park. Then it was a short 4km walk, all uphill, some gradual and some not so gradual back to the car. A bottle of red and a meal at the Black Spur Hotel completed the day.

It poured rain all night at the motel and it wasn’t looking good for Sunday. However the rain cleared and we made our way to our original destination, Warburton, for a bike ride. Claire took off on her shiny new bike and looked like a demon as she rode down the rail trail towards Millgrove. The weather looked ominous and it started to rain so we sought some shelter at the Sunday Market and decided to cut it short and head back to Warburton. It was a long ride and we were both tired when we got back, we must have ridden 8 km.

A browse of the many art and craft shops on the main street and afternoon tea at “Piglets” in Neerim Sth on the way home ended an enjoyable weekend.

Claire Cassidy and Peter Ryan

Cross Country Skiing - Mt St Gwinear 2008

The snow arrived and we were off!

Date: Saturday, July 12^th 2008

Tim Clarke, Richard McNeil & Michael Haynes

There was a lovely cover of fresh snow – we were able to ski directly from the car park. We prepared in the warm day shelter with hot drinks etc, and then at about 10:30 am set off. There were no other ski trails ahead – just a lone snowshoe walker. All the bushes had snow on them, like a traditional European Christmas card! We followed the main trail for about 3 km, past Jeep Track Flat, and then found a suitable place to flatten out a downhill run suitable for a novice and ‘first time on skis this year’ legs. We played there and had lunch, then continued along the trail to the summit of Mt St Gwinear. That was as far as the Park people had prepared the trail and the wind in our faces coming over the top was icy and fierce, so we returned to our (by-now) nicely groomed slope to play some more, before slowly returning to the car park, pausing to sample each new slope a few times as we went. Richard, being a cross-country first timer, then decided he had pushed himself far enough for that day and walked the remainder of the way to the car park where we again visited the day shelter for a hot drink and food.

Saturday, July 19^th

Tim Clarke, Denis Nagle & Michael Haynes

Similar conditions and timing to the previous week. Visited Andy Gillham and John Sunderland at the Park Office, then checked out the visitors’ centre for drinks and preparations. Following the main track, with only short ‘play’ stops on the way, to the summit of Mt St Gwinear, we then continued to Gwinear Flat where we had thought to stay and play for a while. However, the snow there was too patchy, with bushes poking through everywhere, so we continued on to the Rock Shelter where we found John, Marg and other ski patrollers lunching in a coloured patrol tent. We stayed and played for a while, then followed the Australian Alps Walking Track to Mt St Phillack and beyond. At this point, Michael heard a loud crack and found one of his skis, (repaired with Araldite a mere 30 or so years ago!) had finally had enough and was bending ominously, some upward, some downwards! He then started back towards the Rock Shelter where the packs had been left and had coffee. Tim and Denis soon joined him having been busy with impromptu repairs. One of Denis’ ski poles had snapped and had been ‘mended’ with a wonderful “Fred Flintstone” look with a small branch and pliable bark! We then made our way - carefully- back to the car park for refreshments and home.

Michael Haynes

Friday 25^th July

John Sunderland, Graham Bolton, Tim Clarke, Michael Haynes, Rob Hooper, Harvey Miller, Ron Cann.

Again the email system worked well, and seven of us organised to meet at the St. Gwinear car Park at 10.30 a.m. Car pooling meant that we were able to access the mountain in just two cars.

By the time we were ready to start, it was after 11, but with icy conditions this was a sensible time. Our ability levels were quite varied but we stayed together as a group through lunchtime at Gwinear Saddle and until reaching the Rock Shelter.

At this stage we split into two groups. Some continued down into Tullicoutty Glen and Thomson’s Run, returning to Gwinear Flat via some lovely “play” at Freeman’s Flat/Phillack Saddle and a challenging Blue Pole Run. The others returned directly to Gwinear Flat for some useful practice runs.

By this stage the day was drawing to a close and the seven of us still had to get back to the cars. Most of us misjudged the difficulty we were to face with very icy conditions on the home run. While Tim and John were comfortable with the speed, most of us were more than challenged. Certainly I would have preferred (in hindsight!) to have avoided the very challenging, narrow and icy eastern descent off St. Gwinear summit and taken the safer yellow pole line.

It was icy all the way back to cars, a matter of hang on for the ride, the emphasis on survival rather than finesse! I could only admire the way Tim managed it all, and climbed back up for another go! Don’t those hips wiggle well!

Thanks to everyone for sharing another really interesting day on the slopes, and special thanks to John who (as a member of the St Gwinear Ski Patrol) contributed additional security to our party with First Aid and Communications equipment, and modelling of lovely telemarking technique!

Ron Cann

Torronga Falls and Ralph Cornwell Tramway Track

Date: Sunday 20^th July

Leader: Richard McNeil

Walker: Ian White

In my opinion the best time to walk is on a cold crisp winter morning when the mist is still settled over the track that I am about to step out upon. This is what met us this morning.

Both walks were easy so we decided to do the falls walk first. Having rained for most of the week the track to the falls was wet and quite slippery in places. And the roar of the river was the only sound to be heard. We reached the falls after a short time and stepped out onto the viewing platform which gave us an excellent view of these raging waterfalls. Leaving there we headed off to the Amphitheatre Falls, making our way along a narrow path winding its way through a variety of bush.

Amphitheatre falls was equally as impressive as Tooronga Falls, and praise must be given to the D.S.E. for providing the viewing platforms at each of the falls. Leaving there we made our way back along the track which follows the Tooronga River which is full of lichen covered rocks. With the river, rocks and mist still present this provided the perfect end to a pleasant walk.

Ralph Cornwell walk is a relatively new track, which has only been in for about 18 months. It follows the Loch River along a flat path passing through a variety of flora ranging from tree ferns to mountain ash. With the track being carpeted with a thick layer of leaf litter, it makes for a soft and easy walk.

All in all we had a very enjoyable day without getting too wet. So I would encourage all members to pack a coat and enjoy what our area has to offer.

Richard McNeil

Two Weeks In Kakadu

To avoid some of Warragul’s cold winter, I spent the last two weeks of June in sunny Kakadu. 30 degrees day after day might have got a bit boring if I had been there longer, but for two weeks it was lovely.

Willis’ Walkabouts runs many different walking trips, and I joined four others and a guide for two - one week walks in southern Kakadu.

The weather was consistently 30 degrees and we cooled down by swimming in the crystal clear streams and ponds that were always nearby. In fact we followed a creek for all of the first week, from Koolpin Gorge to Twin Falls. The second week was from Twin Falls to Graveside Gorge, again camping by beautiful clear ponds each night.

The scenery in Kakadu is fantastic. A lot of reddish sandstone rock, which creates lovely cascades and ponds which were edged with pandanus and water lilies. Apart from the aboriginal art on various rocks along the way, and areas of burnt grass, there were no signs of human intervention.

There were no tracks, no “designated campsites”, no signposts, triangles on trees or arrows on rocks. You chose your own route, governed somewhat by the need for water, where creek crossings are possible and the density of the bush.

Some areas have been burned, to get rid of spear grass, and I did not like walking in these areas. There is powdery ash on the ground and the remaining small trees were black and sooty.

However, most of the bush is beautiful, flowering wattles, orange grevilleas, hakeas and paperbarks along the streams. Other flowering trees were the yellow kapok, orange flowered currajong and the most common, turkey bush with small pink flowers. Lots of other varieties too, but I can’t remember them all.

The walking was easy, the bush is not very dense and the terrain was mostly level, but included quite a lot of rock hopping. There were no mozzies or flies and the chance of rain was minimal.

I would definitely recommend walking with Willis’ Walkabout so that you can get away from the tourists and experience the untouched beauty of Kakadu.

Fran Miller

Hill End Bush

Date: Wednesday 18^th June

Leader: Julie Parker

Participants: Heather and Michael Haynes

We left Julie’s place a little before 11am for the 5 minute car shuffle to the start of the days walk. The tracks we took lead us around a little of Blue Rock Lake and then up through the bush winding our way through the undulating terrain. There was much evidence of recent severe wind damage with large trees and huge branches down. These temporarily took us off our course on a few occasions but we managed to sort out our desired track again from all the animal paths without much trouble.

We lunched by the perfectly still Tanjil Pool. The reflections were a delight, with just the occasional fish jumping to set up the circles of ripples around the ghostly tree trunks standing sentinel in the water. The signs of previous human habitation are becoming harder to find as the bush reclaims the land but we did locate some concrete slabs, old bricks and two glass bottle stoppers. Further on, we found the remains of a loading ramp and, of course, many shafts and channels from past gold mining activities. There were plenty of deer tracks and wombat droppings but it was a bit early for flowers. The weather stayed dry. We reached Julie’s place about 3 pm, the right time for afternoon tea.

Thanks H and M for joining me, much better than staying home and getting on with the chores!

Labertouche Caves

Date: Sunday June 22^nd.

Leader: Richard McNeil

Walker: Ian White

With predictions of bad weather there was not a lot of interest in the walk. But the intrepid Ian and I decided to go anyway. As it happened the day was mild even though it was overcast.

We started our walk at 10 am. The track follows a large concrete water pipe which is owned by Gippsland water. I am guessing that the water is now used for Melbourne water.

Leaving this track and joining another which was to take us to the caves the scenery became more lush with a combination of mountain ash, tree ferns and, of course, ti-tree. We continued past the turn off to the caves because I wanted to show Ian the small dam and water diversion plant which was used to supply Drouin district with its water many years ago. Having seen this, and the leeches were getting a bit friendly, we headed to the caves.

The entry to the caves is via a small hole created by several large granite boulders. If you wanted to enter the caves you would have to lower yourself down into the cave. (not for me)

We then went to the outlet of the cave which was a lot easier to access so we poked around for a while, had our lunch and then made our way back to the car. We both agreed it was a worthwhile day.

Richard

Willow Eradication Baw Baw Plateau

Date: Monday 5^th May

Leader Andy Gilham PV Ranger

Participants, 4 PV Rangers, 8 FOBB members.

Eileen Laidlaw, Richard McNeil SBWC

Willows are a problem on the Baw Baw plateau. Parks Victoria has recognised this and eight years ago they started a program to try to curtail these invasive weeds. FOBB picked up on and offered SBWC a chance to provide assistance.

On the 5th of May Parks Victoria embarked on this mission. So far over 900 willows have been eradicated. The way these willows are found is quite easy. In late April these deciduous trees turn yellow which allows them to stand out amongst the native bush. They fly over the area in a helicopter while the spotter marks the position of the willows using a GPS. This is done the day before the volunteers come to do their work.

We met at Parks Victoria office at Parkers Corner. Andy allocated different crews with a GPS, a map with the location of the willows and the knowledge that we would be flown in by helicopter and dropped off at the nearest point possible to the trees.

He also told us that if the weather turned bad the chopper may not be able to come and get us so we may have to walk out (not a good feeling). The pilot gave us the safety instructions and we were off.

The helicopter flight gave us a totally different perspective compared to what you see on the ground. After our 10 minute flight we were over Mt Mueller which was our work area. The nearest drop off was Mc Callister flats so down we went and were dropped off there. The area we were walking was fairly open for a while, but as we got close, the bush was closing in on us and getting quite dense.
At last we saw our first willow. Mark the PV ranger showed us what to do: cut the willow at ground level and paint the stump and the off cut with roundup. We had four willows to do in this area and soon they were done. Now off to the next area where there were three willows to find. Having trouble finding them and with time marching on we decided to head towards our pick up point. Fortunately we found another three willows which were not on our list so we rounded them up and ended up with our seven willows for the day. As Moondarra flats was the closest safe pick up point we made our way there. Soon we were picked up and flown to Parkers Corner.

Thanks to my walking partners Mark and Ben.
Richard

Walhalla Circuit

Date: Saturday 24^th May

Leader: Claire Cassidy

Participants: Peter Ryan, Robyn and Peter Maffei, Fran Miller

We met at Walhalla at 10.30 am and being a cold morning decided to start the walk with a cup of coffee from the café.

About 11.30 we remembered we were there for a walk and set off up (what else do you do in Walhalla) a track leading past a quaint old church.. After a brief squiz, we continued through lovely tall gums with the odd parrot darting about. A bit of pink heath was flowering and there were plenty of fungi to be seen.

The track levelled out and after passing a few burnt out cottages, we reached the stone remains of a stockbrokers residence. (We are not history buffs – there was a sign telling us ). We decided to have lunch there as a huge log was provided for the purpose.

Claire and Peter showed off their new u-beaut cooker, heating a can of soup in a jiffy. How long is that?

We continued on the wide undulating track, passing 3 large water tanks, which had us guessing as to why they were there, but decided they had something to do with the mining activity we had seen. We had passed a couple of core drill sites.

About afternoon tea time we made it to the cricket ground and sat gazing at the empty field imagining fielders chasing sixers down the hill.

The track back to Walhalla has been upgraded and was an easy descent.

We reached the cars about 5pm and I headed home, leaving the others discussing their planned walk on Hinchinbrook Island which is due to start on Monday 2^nd June.

Fran Miller

Northern Section Wilsons Prom

Part One

Date: Friday 25^th – Sunday 27^th April 2008

Participants: Ed Buller SBWC and Alan Eagle BCBWC

Leader: Denis Nagle

The lead up to this walk looked a bit dicey, one of only three walkers from Strzelecki pulled out a week before which only left Ed and me. As the leader I had to decide if a walk that I hadn’t reccied, known to be very hard and with a forecast for difficult weather condition should proceed. Then an email arrived from Alan asking if it wasn’t too late to join us. (I had listed my walk with the Ben Cruchan Bushwalking Club to try to enlist a bit more interest)

While Alan is a very experienced walker, he like Ed and myself had not walked in this area of Wilsons Prom before. So it would be like the blind leading the blind. I should clarify that when I say I hadn’t done a recce for this walk. In March of this year I had four weeks work at Wilsons Prom, during which time I was able to drive along five mile track on a number of occasions and went by boat to Johnny Souey and Tin Mine Coves and also Chainman’s beach. I also returned to Tin Mine Cove a week before the trip on another unrelated boat trip. On this last trip and at two other locations I had stationed a water dump, as I had heard that good drinking water would be in short supply at most of the camp sites.

We started therefore with a few advantages, the others proving to be our combined experiences, map reading and compass skills and a GPS, but most of all a keen sense of observation.

We made good time along Five mile track to the junction of the Lower Barry walking track, the weather was warm for that time of day and the smoke haze from fuel reduction burns blanketed the views of Corner inlet. The going was easy at first then it became a constant lookout for the at times non-existent or multiple tracks. Fortune was also in our favour as someone had very recently walked the track and replaced the flagging tapes. So this helped us enormously. Even so it was still possible to lose sight of these if you were not careful. We still had much checking of maps and Alan plotted our waypoints on his GPS. We reached lower Barry Creek and found it flowing with cool clear water.

We pushed on after a break and passed through the so called Chainman’s Swamp without a hint of water to have to wade through. Stopping for a leisurely lunch under a large Banksia tree in the middle of an open heathland we chatted and contemplated the distance we still had to travel.

We were glad to leave the heath as it scratched our legs badly but the alternatives were not much better as the thick tea tree was difficult to get through with our heavy packs. Eventually we burst out of this scrub onto a most idyllic beach with hundreds of black swans majestically gathered just offshore. We took stock and began our walk along this beach. Footprints of other walkers only just ahead were disappearing, as the tide was rapidly encroaching, this made the going harder for us as we were forced to walk higher up in the softer sands. This coupled with the weight of our loads became very draining of our energies. I had to stop. As we sat I thought I heard what sounded like a crack of a gun shot, but soon enough we discovered it was the air from the blowholes of a pod of dolphins making it’s way up the inlet, we watched them for some time in their pursuit of prey.

Time marched on and still we had a way to go we finally reached the end of the beach and traversed the next hill and arrive in Tin mine cove for much deserved swim and settled in our camp site for the night. To be Continued next edition.

Denis Nagle

Part Two

Date: 25^th -27^th April 2008

Leader: Denis Nagle

Walkers: Ed Buller, Alan Eagle

Last month’s edition of the Strzelecki newsletter had the report of the first day of this walk, written by Denis Nagle. Alan sent this to finish off the remaining days of the trip report.

Despite some overnight sprinkles, Saturday morning was fine and sunny. We broke camp at 8:30am, heading back to Chinaman Long Beach. From there we headed inland along the Tin Mile Track. This was once a road, but is rapidly being overgrown, with quite a few sections of head high (or higher) Ti-tree to push through. Although more obvious than the day before, the track at times still required care to follow. We made good time and by noon had completely crossed the peninsula to Lighthouse Point.

With the tide out, we made good progress south along Three Mile Beach on good hard sand. We had lunch at the southern end of the beach behind a small point and out of the wind, a little after 1pm. With only 2-3km to go to our campsite at Johnny Souey Cove, lunch was a leisurely affair and included time for a swim.

We then tracked across Three Mile Point and down to the camp site, arriving at 3:30pm.

The camp site proved to be rather crowded due to a party of sea kayakers and our ‘friends’ from the Five Mile carpark. Furthermore it was by now threatening to rain, so we elected to undertake the remaining scrub bash to Five Mile Beach, which we reached just before 5pm. We quickly set up camp, and despite the threatening rain headed down for another surf. This proved to be somewhat exhilarating as the surf was rather large and very dumpy.

Denis had also left another supply of drinking water at this campsite, so we were able to dispense with the necessity of trying to find fresh water. The rain gods also smiled on us, so tea was a dry affair, and the rain only started after we had retired for the night.

Despite overnight rain, Sunday morning was again rain free and we broke camp about 8:30am. After a short walk along the beach we found the start of the track, and once across the coastal dune, the start of the Five Mile Road. From there it was just a steady trudge back along the road. We found water at Chinaman creek, and at Barry Creek, where we had lunch at noon. We arrived back at the vehicles at about 1:30pm, having covered approximately 57 km in the three days.

Alan Eagle

Mt Howitt and Bryces Gorge

Date: 12th-13th April

Leader: Richard McNeil

Participants: Ian White, Eileen Laidlaw, Tim Clarke, Nick Van Ewijk, Jan McNeil.

An early start ensured that we’d be at Bryces carpark by mid morning. There was some concern about the condition of the Tamboritha road leading out of Licola as the Wellington river had flooded several months ago causing a lot of damage and undermining of the road, but repairs had been done and the road was quite safe. Travelling another 45km past Licola we arrived at our destination. We had morning tea and headed off in overcast weather. The first feature of the walk was arriving at Guys hut. The hut was built in the 1940s and apart from some obvious repairs you can see that it is in original condition.

From there we headed in a northerly direction through Black Sally woodlands, until we reached the Conglomerate Falls. Even though we have not had rain the falls still put on a good show for us. And with a little fog starting to appear this made the gorge appear a little eerie. Light rain also started so we moved on to Pieman Falls where the views were equally as good even though we were looking through misty fog. We had lunch here but the rain was getting a bit heavy so we moved on and headed for the carpark. By the time we got back the sun was out and the carpark looked liked a good place to camp. So the tents went up, the stars came out and it was a perfect high country night.

The next morning we woke to a sunny but cold morning. After packing up we drove 15 km to Mt Howitt carpark. Setting off almost straight away walking across the clover plains through snowgums for approx 5 km we made a slight diversion off the main track so we could get a better view of the devils staircase. Then on to Vallejo Gantner hut where we had morning tea. This hut is an A frame design with a copper roof which was built in 1970 by the Myer family. Leaving here we made our way along a ridge with spectacular views into the head waters of the Macalister river to the west, and the Terrible Hollow to the east. Soon after we reached the summit of Mt Howitt and being fogged in we couldn’t see much at all. We had lunch there and watched the fog roll up and down Terrible Hollow until it disappeared, giving us brilliant views to the north of crosscut saw, the Razor and the Viking. And I’m sure no one could believe their luck. We then made our way back to the carpark for a well earned cuppa and set off for home.

Thomson Station to Walhalla via

Poverty Point Bridge.

Wednesday 19^th March

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Jenny Cann, Brigitte Van Pee, Dorothy Sturgess, Ben Aalbers, Graham Dettrick, Ian White, Michael and Heather Haynes and Fran Miller.

Excellent walking weather after the extremely hot days was very welcome although a few thought it was too cold at 9.30am, when we disembarked at Thomson Bridge.

We soon warmed up on the gradual climb on a narrow track (an old tramway) about 40 feet above the Thomson river. The vegetation was lovely with tree ferns below us, maiden hair at the track’s edge and the ubiquitous eucalypts (a few blackberries too). We followed the river, on the Mt Erica side up to Poverty Point Bridge.

Along the way, we met several groups of school boys – one lot were doing a ropes activity at Poverty Point bridge – pulling a willing participant halfway across the gorge and lowering him into a leaky canoe at the edge of the river. This provided us with a bit of entertainment and after hearing from Ron, about the Italian wood cutters who had a small settlement here, in 1900, we crossed the historic bridge and continued. .back along the other side of the river

The track is now part of the Alpine Walking track and widened considerably. On this side of the river the vegetation was sparser but included some lovely, healthy grass trees.

We stopped for lunch at a pleasant little gully filled with mosquitoes, so we had a 20 minute break and took off before we became lunch.

After crossing the steep Mormon town four wheel track we left the river and started on a track which followed the road into Walhalla, which was a steep drop about 80 feet below us.

We arrived in Walhalla in time for a quick coffee before setting off to catch the 3.00pm train back to Thomson Station, near the cars. The Walhalla station is a short distance South.

The 20 minute train trip was an enjoyable way to end the walk. The railway track hugged the hillside and the views of the rocky creek bed on the other side were picturesque and tranquil.

A good day was had by all, thanks to Ron for the well researched and planned walk.

Ben, Fran, Dorothy, Ron, Brigitte Van Pee,

Michael, and Ian White at the station.

Participants: Rod Brisbane, Ray Conner, Graham Dineen, John Gilcrist, Tom Mildren, Rae Moore (photographer for the day), Henk Pillekers, Lucy and Angus Thorpe

We all met at 11am for coffee/brunch at the designated café in Leongatha. After introductions and paperwork, directions were given on how to get to the aerodrome. But at the turn off one car was missing (apparently took the scenic route), eventually we were all reunited. We were met and welcomed by Rob and Co from the South Gippsland Gliding Club. More paperwork required and more instructions on how and where to gliding was to take place.

It was looking promising as the temperature was rising and the occasional small whirlwind could be seen (these can assist the glider get lift). But by the time we were ready to take off a thin layer of high level cloud had formed.

When our first volunteer took to the air, they circled a few times but couldn't find the thermals to get any higher, soon they were lining up to come in for a landing.This seemed to be the order of the day with take offs and landings happening at regular intervals.

A momentary thinning of cloud though improved matters and Henk got the longest and highest ride so far. Then Tom’s second attempt came to a sudden end as the towing rope came off just as it was about to take off. Undeterred he got back in and took off again. Some might say that the most exciting part is the take off, and all got at least two chances at this.

The winner for the day though was Lucy , who got the highest and flew for the longest time.

All in all we had a great time and we hope to do so again on Sunday 6^th of April as there is another day planned.(there still room for a few more if you are keen otherwise maybe next year).

Party members; Ed Buller ,Rob Bentvelzen, Christine Clark, Rod Brisbane, Robyn Shingles, Peter Maffi, Ian White, Fran Miller, Catrina Ferguson.

Meeting as arranged we travelled to the carpark next to the start of the Buttongrass nature trail. With a short walk along guide track we soon found the start of the Buttongrass trail. It was a very easy flat walk with a variety of flora including hakeas, wattles, ti-tree, mistletoe and, of course, buttongrass. This section of the walk was only 3 km long and we were soon back at the start having lunch.

After lunch we started on the Weatherhead range circuit. After a short flat walk we reached the only steep section of the walk, it rose about 180m over 2km and from there it was all downhill.

As we entered Luptons track we found this was a pleasant walk with an abundance of healthy woodlands and one lookout which didn’t have much of a view. We rejoined the Buttongrass trail and made our way back to the start arriving at 3 pm

Rear: Eric Tyler, Michael Haynes; Middle: Heather Haynes, Chris Clark, Cathy Almond, Ian White. Front: Carlene Tyler, photo by Dorothy Sturgess.

A group of eight gathered at the car park at Punch bowl at 9.30am for the George Bass Coastal walk. Eyes cast towards the heavens trying to decide how many layers would be appropriate for the prevailing weather conditions - overcast skies and gale force winds. Our intrepid leader Cathy led us with a wild wind at our backs.

A gentle winding track led through the grass lands and into occasional gullies lined with small trees and coastal fauna. It was an exhilarating walk, with the crashing of waves on the cliffs and beaches on one

side and the brown rolling hills of farmland on the other. With an occasional break to admire the view, we arrived at the picnic shelter just past Kilcunda caravan park for lunch, just in time to listen to the rain on the roof. Cathy then led us over the road to the coffee shop for great coffee, cake and scones. For new members of the club and those on their first club walk it was an auspicious start to day walks.

Cathy had really done her homework and we were also impressed by her dazzling array of gear (thanks to some secret Santa presents). Discussion was held on the benefits of having a torch on the top of your walking poles with many suggestions put forward on their uses. See Cathy for more information!

We then headed back into the wind to admire the coast from the other direction. The clouds had cleared and we were treated to an ever changing colour scheme of blues, greens, aquamarines and a myriad of colours in between. The sea was wild with crashing waves, large pools of white foam and the spray erupting over the rock shelves. Who wants the gentle lapping of water on the beach? We spotted a few birds and nearly stood on a very sluggish red-bellied black snake sunning itself beside the track.

Thanks to Cathy for a great day walk from both the experienced and the new comers to the club. Chris Clark, Ian White, Michael and Heather Haynes, Dorothy Sturgess

Party members: Graham Dettrick, Michael Haynes, Ben Aalbers, Brigitte Van Pee, Dorothy Sturgess, Jenny Cann

We met at Boolarra for a 10.00 start, but the usual pre-walk coffee saw us getting away a little later than this. It was forecasted to be a hot day, but much of the track is well-shaded so heat wasn’t too much of a problem. It is an excellent walking and cycling track, and as a former railway line has only minor grades, though we did choose to go the uphill way! Evidence is that horse riders also use the track.

The Boolarra to Mirboo North Rail Trail follows the path of the former railway that ran from Morwell to Mirboo North from 1886 to 1974. It contributed significantly to the opening up of the area, and it was a major means of transport for people for many years. It enabled the expansion of settlement in the district, and encouraged the development of new industries in the area. The list is interesting: timber, bauxite, potatoes, chaff, hay, black coal, rabbits, milk products, and willow for cricket bats!

The first three birds listed in the Fauna section on the rail trail website are the Yellow Tailed Black Cockatoo, King Parrot, and the Crimson Rosella. And what did we see in the first couple of 100 metres of the track?!! You guessed it, and in that order! The photographers amongst us had a feast. Ben commented that it might be a very long day if we continued at this pace!

There are two bridges along the track, both now at a considerably lower level than what must once have been very long and high trestle bridges. An historical feature of the track are the occasional drainage tunnels which are found under some of the massive earth viaducts. They are round in shape, constructed with small bricks by skilled tradesmen, and perfectly preserved. We looked in vain for one which was specifically marked on a map in a shelter at Darlimurla. Has anyone ever found it?!

We stopped for morning tea at the first bridge, and then lunched further on at Darlimurla. There is terracing here where the railway siding used to be, and it is here that a brick kiln was located to produce the bricks that we saw in the culverts.

Having just finished our lunch we saw a solitary figure walking towards us from the direction of Mirboo North. It was Dorothy, coming to join us for the remainder of the walk - for her “out-and-back” walk. The inconvenience of her morning appointment was an advantage for the remainder of us, as she had driven directly to Mirboo North, thus enabling us to have transport to shuttle drivers back to cars at Boolarra later in the afternoon.

There is a “Big tree” on the outskirts of Darlimurla, beside the Little Morwell River, a short side trip took us there. The track into it was lined with black berries and there was some praise for the leader in providing fresh fruit as an after-lunch snack! The big tree is not as big as the Ada Tree or the big tree at Mt. Worth, but it is nevertheless impressive. It looks very healthy in spite of the arrow which has been shot into it, several metres above ground level. We speculated on the possibility of a human pyramid to reach the arrow, but there was no agreement as to whether it would be more dangerous to be at the top or at the bottom, so the fantasy evaporated!

From here it was a straight forward walk into Mirboo North, and to the brewery conveniently situated at the end of the track. We had ordered a Devonshire tea the day before so were eagerly anticipating afternoon tea. But there are other priorities at a brewery on a hot Tuesday afternoon so a pot of the local brew all round served as a “warm-up” (or “cool down”) for what was to follow. Michael’s creative logic told him that if he chose a light beer he could have double the quantity! The first one was gone before the second could be poured! It was a hot afternoon!

The plate of scones was mountainous, and there were choices of jams and an abundance of cream! We could justify this after walking for 13 km. … couldn’t we? We didn’t manage to get through them all in spite of our best efforts!

Then it was time to move on, the drivers returning with Dorothy to Boolarra to collect cars and head for home. Ron returned to the “Boo” to collect Jenny and Brigitte. All in all, a most enjoyable day. Special thanks to Dorothy for her support with transport. Ron

President’s Weekend at Cape Conran Coastal Park.

Date: 22nd – 24^th February

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Marg and Rob Bentvelzen, Wayne and Christine Burge, Fran Miller, Graham Bolton and Anita Charles, and Amelia, Zoe, Tom and Chris, Peter Maffei and Robyn Shingles, Jenny Cann and Brigitte Van Pee

Nous avons quitté Warragul jeudi 21 février et étions à Cape Conran vers 4h de l'après midi. (Cape Conran se situe à peu près à 320km de Warragul 25km d'Orbost.) Le temps n'était pas très bon - avons eu beaucoup de pluie sur la route. Cape Conran où je n'avais jamais été avant, est un endroit superbe pour ceux qui aiment camper dans le bush - c'est moitié bush moitié plage.

Avons aperçu notre premier Kookaburra. Après l'installation de nos tentes, et d'une grande bâche au milieu du camp au dessus d'une table et « fireplace » et une courte visite à la plage, il était temps de prendre l'apéro, puis un bon stew et soirée autour d'un bon feu. Nous avons de la bonne chance - une visite d'un bandicoot et d'un opossum.

Le lendemain, après un réveil pas très tôt - ceci pour Jenny et Brigitte - avons pris notre petit déjeuner et sommes partis voir les cabines et faire une promenade le long de « Swampy Creek » et retour vers le camp le long de la plage. La mer était très houleuse mais splendide. Temps de grignoter quelque chose et après midi relaxante - Ron est parti vers la plage avec son équipement de pêcheur et Jenny et moi avons ouvert nos livres. C'était le paradis. Malheureusement si nous comptions sur quelques poissons pour notre souper ce fut raté car Ron est revenu bredouille.

Wayne et Christine sont arrivés, suivis de Peter et Robyn et Graham, Anita, Amelia, Zoe, et les jumeaux Tom et Chris. Les enfants sont absolument adorables, un vrai bonheur. Malheureusement en fin de journée, la pluie nous est tombée dessus et ne nous a pas quittés pour quelques heures, une vraie horreur alors que nous attendions encore Marg et Rob et Fran. Quand finalement ils sont arrivés, ils ont du installer leur tente sous la pluie alors que Ron et Jenny tenaient une bâche. Et Fran a planté sa tente sous la grande bâche. La nuit fut extrêmement bruyante - beaucoup de vent et pluie.

Mais le samedi matin tout était rentré dans l'ordre et nous avons eu une excellente journée. Après le petit déjeuner sommes partis vers les cabines et le "Swampy creek" pour une promenade - idem à la veille. Lunch avec pour compagnie, un magnifique goanna et puis longue promenade vers « Salmon Rocks » le long de « Cape Conran Nature trail », « Navigation Light » et retour le long de la plage. A notre retour le feu était allumé. Wayne et Peter sont partis pêcher mais sont revenus bredouille - mauvais endroit. Temps pour l'apéritif, souper et une veillée autour du feu. Ron et Jenny avaient préparé la pâte pour cuire des « dampers » enroules autour de sticks. Très intéressant et amusant. Tout cela arrose de bons vins et Baileys.

Ensuite nuit de nouveau très bruyante car énormément de vent. Et dimanche matin après le breakfast nous avons fait une dernière promenade alors que Wayne est parti pêche et est revenu avec quelques « bream » mais c'était trop tard pour nous alors que nous avions apporté plein de citrons - peut-être la prochaine fois ! Ensuite lunch et il était temps de démonter les tentes. Et vers 2 h tout le monde était parti.

Je dois dire que j'ai passe un excellent weekend en très bonne compagnie. Merci à tous ceux qui ont fait le voyage jusqu'a Cape Conran.

Brigitte

And now in English (translation by Jenny)

We left Warragul on Thursday 21 February and were at Cape Conran towards 4:00pm. (Cape Conran is about 320km from Warragul and 25km from Orbost). The weather wasn’t very good, having had a lot of rain on the way. Cape Conran, a place I hadn’t been to before, is a superb place for those who like camping in the bush; it’s half bush and half beach. We saw our first kookaburra. After putting up our tents, and a big tarpaulin in the middle of the camp above a table and fireplace, and a short visit to the beach, it was time for an aperitif, then the delicious stew (which Brigitte had prepared) and to spend the evening around the fire. We were lucky – we had a visit from a bandicoot and a possum.

The next day, after waking not too early – this for Jenny and Brigitte - we had breakfast and headed off to see the cabins and to walk around the Swampy Creek Track and return to camp along the beach. The sea was very turbulent but magnificent. Time to have a snack and relax in the afternoon. Ron went to the beach with his fishing gear and Jenny and I read our books. It was paradise. Unfortunately if you were counting on several fish for supper, you would have been disappointed as Ron returned empty-handed.

Wayne and Christine arrived, followed by Peter and Robyn, and Graham, Anita, Amelia, Zoe and the twins Tom and Chris. The children are absolutely adorable, a real delight. Unfortunately, at the end of the day, it rained heavily and didn’t stop for several hours, a true horror because we were waiting for Marg, Rob, and Fran to arrive. When they finally arrived it was a difficult task to pitch their tents in the rain so Ron and Jenny held a tarpaulin up while they did this and Fran pitched her tent under the big tarpaulin in the centre. The night was very noisy with lots of wind and rain.

But by Saturday morning all had returned to normal and we had an excellent day. After breakfast we left for a walk to the cabins and along the Swampy Creek track (to show the others) as we did the day before. We had lunch with a magnificent goanna for company, and then a long walk to Salmon Rocks along the Cape Conran nature Trail, then to Navigation Light and returned via Cowrie

Bay along the beach and boardwalk. The fire was alight when we returned. Wayne and Peter left to go fishing but they too returned empty-handed – a bad spot!

Time for an aperitif, supper and an evening around the fire. Ron and Jenny had prepared the dough to cook stick damper. Very interesting and amusing. All of this was washed down with good wine and some Baileys.

Later in the night it was again noisy with strong winds. And Sunday morning after breakfast (bacon and eggs for Brigitte!) we had a last walk then Wayne left to go fishing and returned with several bream but this was too late for us even though we had brought plenty of lemons – perhaps next time! Then lunch and it was time to take down the tents. By 2:00pm all had left.

I must say that I spent an excellent weekend in very good company. Thankyou to all those who made the trip to Cape Conran.

Date: Tuesday December 4^th 2007

Leader: Ron Cann

Participants: Eileen Laidlaw, Michael and Heather Haynes, David Ferguson, Wendy Hayes, Jenny Cann, Christine Clarke and John Schroeder.

Distance: 10 km

I had thought of running two activities at the same time, one by bike and one on foot, but in the end decided to leave the bikes at home. We met in Erica and after introductions, the traditional cuppa, a shuffle of a couple of cars to the Thomson River road bridge, began the leisurely walk along the rail trail.

The track follows the route of the former Moe to Walhalla 2’6” narrow gauge railway. Commenced in 1904, the line reached Walhalla in 1910, too late to do much but witness the decline of the town as a premier mining location. Ironically it aided the decline of Walhalla, serving as a convenient way to remove houses for relocation elsewhere. In 1944 the service to Walhalla ceased operating beyond Platina, and in June 1954 the line from Moe finally closed. The line was pulled up in 1956.

Though long term plans envisage that the present Walhalla to Thomson Station Tourist Train will one day run all the way to Erica, for the present time this section of the old railway serves as a very pleasant walking and riding trail. One can only marvel at the engineering feats of the early track builders - deep cuttings and huge viaducts, built without the aid of modern earth moving equipment. One of two steel trestle bridges remains in situ, close to the end of the walk; another is in pieces in the railway yards at the Thomson Station, presumably in readiness for restoration at some future time. The bridge which carried trains across the creek on the outskirts of Erica is long gone, reputedly blown up as part of a military training exercise!

It is hard to reconcile the luxuriant forest of today with the photos of the bare hillsides which surrounded Walhalla in its heyday. It’s reassuring to have such clear evidence of the resilience of the Australian bush, reinforced by the regrowth already apparent in the areas burnt in last summer’s fires. The “kangaroo tails” of the xanthorrhoeas are quite striking and had the photographers in our ranks enthused, trying to get the photographic angle and the light “just right”. We were puzzled at their absence below the track contrasting with their abundance higher up the steep slopes.

We had lunch beside the exit of te Horseshoe Tunnel. Those who have visited this area before had expected an abundance of shade, but recent floods have brought large volumes of water around the former river course, bypassing the tunnel and flattening most of the vegetation in the river bed. Options for a suitable shady spot on a bright sunny day were limited. There was evidence of flood debris several metres above the river bed!

After lunch we followed the old river course to the tunnel entrance, where we speculated on the dangers it might pose to those entering it, pondering what might be fact and what might be fiction in the stories one hears! Nearby are some old diggings which we explored briefly.

Then it was up a very short but steep track to rejoin the rail trail for a final couple of kilometres to the Thomson Station. A signboard along this section marks the location of a runaway carriage which failed to take a sharp bend and plunged over the edge towards the river. Trees stopped the carriage before it reached the bottom and those aboard apparently survived unscathed!

The walk finished near the road bridge where we had left cars earlier in the day. It was a short drive back to Erica, for a cuppa and farewells.

Ron Cann

Leader: Peter Ryan, and Claire Cassidy, Wayne Burge, Richard McNeill, and Robert Bentvelzen.

Friday evening all the clan got together in the Omeo Caravan Park and had a sleep over in a six berth caravan. Very cosy -five adults in a small van.

Saturday morning saw us having a pre-walk breakfast/cuppa chino at the Omeo Bakery. Drove

up to Mt Hotham and parked the cars at Mt Loch car park, and started walking about 9.00 am. We travelled over Mt Loch and down machinery spur with a side walk of about 1 km to visit the North Red Robin mine site. Spargo's Hut at the same site had been burned down in the last bushfire. The mine had been caved in/blown up as a safety measure, as we later discovered when we were speaking to Ken Harris. We walked about another hour to find a spot without ants, and prior to going down the very steep Machinery Spur, to have lunch.

This was probably one of a very rare occasion that we travelled DOWN HILL after lunch. So after travelling down hill for about 3km we arrived on the road near Blair's Hut by about 3.30 pm. A quick bash down the road and we arrived at the hut just as it started to rain very heavily, so a cup of tea in the hut was very welcome.

There was a lovely flow of water in the Cobungra River not more than 10m from the front door of the hut. When it stopped raining about an hour later, we put up the tents and got around to cooking tea, while Wayne wandered off to catch some trout for tea. We enjoyed watching a couple of eagles flying in the distance.

My turn to cook. We started with a chicken Cup-a-Soup, followed by pasta with peas and topped with a 180 gram can of salmon, followed by some lovely rainbow trout that Wayne had managed to pull out of the Cobungra. Then for desert we had dried apple (reconstituted) topped with custard (no lumps).

A cup of coffee with some dairy milk chocolate finished tea. It was dark by then so about 9.30 pm we drifted off to bed. So ended a hot muggy day, eaten by flies and ants, we got rained on, and walked about 10km mostly down hill- we all slept really well.

The walk to Dibbin’s Hut via Cobungra Gap, being only about 5km, it was a leisurely start with a stop over at the Red Robin Battery where we caught up with the owner Ken Harris and had a nice chat with Ken. We arrived at Dibbin’s Hut by lunch time, quite fresh, but still chasing flies. After lunch Wayne, Richard and I spent some time fishing for more trout, but only to catch and release. As well we managed a dip in the Cobungra River in a suitable sized swimming hole. Back at camp and after a cup of tea we managed two rounds of 500 (cards) to entertain us to tea time. We found that Claire is a fast learner, but Richard and I still managed to beat Claire and Peter convincingly twice over.

About 4.30pm four young men walked in to find that we had taken up residence (in a manner of speaking) so they set up their camp site a small distance away. They had managed to walk from Federation Hut via Diamantina Spur covering 11km in a very short time. But one of them had blisters on both his heels the size of a fifty cent piece, and this bloke had another 7km to cover the next day back to Mt Loch Carpark. Good Luck.

Wayne cooked tea this night producing a similar culinary delight to compare with last night's meal. Peter and Claire had so much food that they carried out a whole bag, even though Wayne, Richard and I tried to eat as much as we could before bedtime.

The final day with about 7km back to Mt Loch car park. The first 2 km were the hardest as we climbed about 320m up in these two km .We started early in the cool of the morning and get to Derrick's hut about 11.30am which we reckoned was close enough to lunchtime. After lunch we covered the last 4km quickly and were back at the car park by about 2.00 pm. Here we said our goodbyes to Peter and Claire as they were going back via Dargo and the three musketeers went home via Omeo. A lovely three days was had by all.

Participants: Christine & May Burge, Peter Ryan, Claire Cassidy, Ed Buller, Chris Avery, Ron Cann, David Holroyd, Peter, Christine and Charlotte and friends Marnie, Steve and Toby Jackson.

A traditional club event, the Burge Christmas Camp was held this year at Darmody’s Camp on the Avon River. It’s been an annual event for as long as I can remember and is a great way to spend a relaxing weekend with friends. Last year’s was cancelled due to the fires in the Wellington River area so this year I was determined to get there. About fifteen people turned up this year which was a great result.

There was a mixture of old and new comers but there was one favorite person who wasn’t there for the first time. Wally Burge was a club member from way back and he was sadly missed this year. I missed some of his favorite sayings and May couldn’t tell him to ‘leave the fire alone Wal’.

But she made up for it by reminding Wayne all the time to look after his dear old mother. Poor Wayne, he went for a walk on Saturday and all he could hear was May telling him to take care of her or he would get written out of the will.

Saturday we went for a walk to Mt Hedrick and Huggget’s Crossing and the heat seemed to sap everyone’s energy. A welcome swim was had in the Avon before the climb to the bluff in the searing heat of the early afternoon. The track has all but been obliterated by the recent fires but we were able to find our way without too many problems. The view from the top was well worth the exertion in climbing up in the heat. I never used to think much of the Avon River based on what it looks like at Stratford, but it is a beautiful river, like a mini Snowy River in many respects.

There was a good flow through it and the coolness of the water was too inviting to pass up. After the walk we headed back to the camp site and took it in turns to skinny dip in the river. It was a beautiful way to wash the sweat off after a reasonably hard slog up hill to the cars.

It was then time to put the camp ovens on the fire and relax whilst dinner cooked.

The traditional gumboot and rolling pin throwing contest was held and Ed won the gumboot throw with a magnificent throw of 25 meters, must be a record I think. And Christine Holroyd’s friend, Marnie won the rolling pin throw. After several beers it was time to dish up and Wayne won the job of carving up the meat. He had a lot of admiring fans around him. The flies descended in their hundreds to annoy him, don’t know where they came from, but they can go back to where they belong anytime.

It was a beautiful meal and we all enjoyed the company: must have been fifteen sitting around the camp fire relaxing. What a wonderful way to spend a night.

Sunday dawned hot again and we went for a look at the channel, a short drive from the camp. What a beautiful part of the river, you could see a fair amount of flood debris piled high above the water level which made you realize the power of the river in flood. Ed Buller went for a swim and swam the length of the channel and back, he seemed to be enjoying himself so some of the others jumped in and splashed about. The channel is a narrow passage where the water charges through narrow gaps in the rocks for a hundred meters or so. It is a wonderful spot to while away a few hours on a hot day. The short walk uphill back to the cars had us bathed in sweat so it was back to camp to pack up and have another swim before the hot drive home. Thanks to all for your attendance and for the Burges for putting on another great Christmas camp.

Participants: Denis Nagle; Chris Avery; Richard and Jan McNeil; Kevin and xxxx; Ed Buller and Charlotte.

Tim and Denis set off on Friday to claim some good camp sites for the group for the weekend. We set up camp at a lovely site with a fireplace, protection from wind and also some shade trees. With these duties completed and while we waited for the arrival of Chris Avery we set off on a short walk northwards along the rocky coastline to do some fishing and repair a water collection pipe in a spring. The pipe repair was a success, but we came back with no fish.

On our return from the walk we found Chris boiling the billy and we helped her set up her tent before we cooked our dinner. During dinner Richard and Jan McNeil arrived with their pop-top caravan which Richard masterfully backed into position like a well seasoned ‘grey nomad’. Friends of the McNeil’s Kevin and Axxx were also camping at Bear Gully and joined us around the camp fire.

On Saturday morning after breakfast we set off to walk south toward the Cape Liptrap light house. We were forced inland by the tide blocking our progress along the coastal rock shelf near Point Grinder. This diversion was not so good for us, but it was lucky for a baby wombat that Kevin rescued from its dead mother, ably assisted by Denis in the extraction of Willy from a very tight fitting pouch.

We had lunch on a beach past Point Grinder beside the wreck of the front half of a large wooden fishing boat. We returned to our camp via a more direct route above Point Grinder that kept much closer to the coast line. We finished off the afternoon with a ‘walk & snork’ to the North and dived for some abalone. We returned to camp very satisfied with the day and started dinner with an entrée of abalone which was well cooked by an unnamed team of skilled seafood chiefs. Unfortunately Chris had to depart before the cook up started but we were soon joined by Ed Buller and his daughter Charlotte who set up camp around our central fire place.

On Sunday we took a costal walk (northward) to the historic lime kilns near Walkerville opposite Digger Island. We were all amazed with the human effort that this lime industry entailed. We were also impressed with the natural beauty of the coast with its white beaches, cliffs, miniature lime stone islands and ever changing geology.

We returned to camp, again avoiding an inland diversion around Point YY. We packed up and departed, leaving Ed and Charlotte to stay another night. We had a great time and we left with a feeling that we would be back again to enjoy this beautiful coastline.

A “medium” (rated four) walk down the Snowy River sounded like a good opportunity to get the boots back on and enjoy some great outdoors. Walking downstream would mean no big hills just some rock hopping/scrub bashing and the occasional wet boot. What had been forgotten was the leader's idea of medium and our perception of medium.

The group travelled up on Friday evening and we camped at the Little River Falls. Wayne, John and Ed D arrived late afternoon and set up camp. Wayne went of for a bit of fishing, saying he was going to catch some fresh trout for tea. He returned a while later with a just pan size trout and a story about the one that he let go as it was to big for the pan. A true fisherman complete with all the stories but never mind your mates!

Saturday morning we did a car drop off and headed on to Suggan Buggan where we left the other car and the walking started- up the road and onto Sandy creek track and drop down to the Snowy. We're all set for a bit of a road bash, a good way to warm up, but ten minutes into the walk the leader, with no consultation, takes off up the side of the steepest hill along the road. His story was that it's shorter and he said that we couldn't have to easy all weekend, so there went the perception of medium. What else did he have in store for us? We proceeded up the hill and cut across to a saddle where we picked up Sandy creek track and headed down to the river.

Lunch was on the Snowy just as the first rain shower came over and then we followed the river downstream. The rest of the way was very enjoyable walking as there was a wide bank with good brumby tracks. About fourish we found a nice sandy bank and made camp. The river had a good flow and as a result of the rains was quite murky, so the fisherman had a good excuse not to provide a fresh catch for tea as the leader had promised. We had more rain during the night which didn't cause problems only ensuring a good sleep with the sound of the rain on the tent.

Sunday was a nice morning. The walking became a bit more of a scrub bash as the bank narrowed but the tracks were still quite good. The aim for the day was to reach the junction of the Suggan Buggan river. We found a large pool with a rock bank which made for an excellent lunch spot. Ed Buller could not resist and went for a dip and was amazed at the depth of the water. Up to this point the river had been wide, swift and shallow. We scrambled over some rocky banks during the afternoon and made camp at the junction. We picked our tent spots, set up and then the rain came in earnest. Meals were cooked in tents and under tarps and another early night was ensured.

Monday was dry and the walking was similar to the previous day with some narrow sections encountered. At one point Jack did a bit of fancy footwork as he came upon a not too big red belly black snake. He then decided to delegate the track blazing but got no takers as we thought he was doing an excellent job! Late afternoon we came to McKillops Bridge which was our destination for the day. We walked under the bridge and camped at the camping area on the west side of the river. There were only a few car campers in the camp which was not a surprise as Mckillops road was still being repaired after heavy rains early in the year. A pleasant evening was had sitting around the campfire enjoying our meal and a few stories were told and general obligatory ribbing of the leader’s abilities and his replies of soft walkers expecting an easy walk.

Tuesday and a short 4km walk to the car at Wheelers Gap via Turnback Peak or a 12km walk along the road. These were the options so of course we decided on the shorter route. The leader had his revenge on his unruly group as the shorter route involved a steep 500m climb straight after breakfast which kept us all nice and quiet. John was not feeling too flash as he and his breakfast had parted company. We think that he had a reaction to water as it was quite stirred up. He took his time and made the climb, knocking back all offers by the rest of us for carrying any of his gear- a good effort. We reached the car by 10:30, piled in and drove back to the Little River Falls camp site where we had lunch while the drivers went to retrieve the other car. This took a bit over an hour and then we travelled home with a coffee stop in Buchan.

As we drove through Bairnsdale and onto Sale we were amazed by the amount of flooding that had occurred over the weekend, and realised we had been quite lucky not to have had that much rain.

All up a good walk with pleasant company and thanks to Jack for leading this trip.

Participants: Gayle Shields, Phil and Julie Waring, Chris Avery, Ian and Bryanna Mifsud, Julie Parker, Kath Akarsu, Ron Cann, Jan McPherson, Richard McNeil.

We arrived at the meeting place at the corner of Princes Freeway and Tynong North Road at 9:30.

It had been raining the day before and this day looked like being much the same. So I was surprised to see a total of twelve walkers ready to brave the elements. From there we pooled our cars and drove to the Mortimer Picnic Ground.

Leaving the picnic ground we went along the Mortimer Nature Walk. Towards the end of the track we had a steady but fairly easy climb, until we reached the Tree Fern Track. This track descended through surprisingly open tree fern country, which was very slippery under foot. Soon after we arrived at the intersection of Tree Fern Track and Nichols Hut Track. From here we headed north up Nichols Hut Track which was quite a steep climb up the spur.

The track had a lot of erosion caused by four wheeled drives and the like. After reaching the top of this track we took a short break to catch our breath, and then we strolled down Burgess Road to the Four Brothers Rocks for lunch.

Upon arrival there the sky was covered in cloud, but towards the end of lunch the cloud had lifted and we had great views of the rocks and valley to the north.

Finishing lunch, we retraced our steps back down Nichols Hut Track until we joined up with the Silvertop Ridge Track. At this stage of the walk we were meandering through open forest on a well defined track. The Silvertop Ridge Track soon met up with the Ferres Walking Track. This junction was easily defined as there is a large dam there. Unfortunately it has been blackened by cinders and run off from a recent fire.

We followed this track which runs roughly parallel with the Diamond Creek until we arrived back at the picnic ground. All this and no rain all day!

Participants: Jenny Cann, Heather and Michael Haynes, Rob Russell, Anne Jones

We met at San Remo at 9.30 am after a very wet but green drive through South Gippsland. After having coffee we drove to the beginning of the bridge to Churchill Island where we left the cars. Luckily the skies had cleared and we set off only to find the weather very changeable, with some heavy rain squalls interspersed with windy and sunny periods.

We stopped frequently to observe the large number of waterbirds on the wetlands both on and off the island. We were thrilled to see a family of geese. First was the mother leading four babies in a single row with the rear brought up by the father. We also saw some young lapwings scurrying across to hide in the grass. In between showers of rain and fumbling for cameras and binoculars to see the birdlife we walked around the island stopping for lunch at the new visitors centre in the middle of the island which had a restaurant and very interesting information about life on the island in the 19^th Century.

Victoria’s first crop of wheat was grown here with the seed being provided by an English gentleman, Mr Churchill, after whom the island was named. We were very interested to see wheat still growing in with the native vegetation, with very puny looking heads of grain; perhaps this was the original type of wheat? On one side of the island were the famed Moonah trees. Old knotted, gnarled, trees with trunks looking like twisted rope or braided hair, some of which were 500 years old. They are thought to be magic by the Bunurong, the original Koori people from this area.

Churchill Island is no longer privately farmed but still has a heritage farm. We didn’t visit the farm, (there is an entrance fee) which consists of the original house built in the early 19^th Century, and a number of farm buildings. We did see many highland cattle and some black-faced sheep, including a newborn lamb looking at us.

The narrow bridge has allowed the rangers to eradicate rabbits from the island, which they hope will permit the return of the native vegetation. This, in turn, will facilitate the re-introduction of native fauna, which was largely wiped out by predators and habitat destruction.

Later in the day we spent sometime walking along the coast of Phillip Island toward Rhyll, facing the mudflats of Westernport Bay. The land was alive with rabbits – no wonder everyone’s lawn looked freshly mowed! There was great evidence of the damage they cause to the land, in stark contrast to Churchill Island where there is no longer evidence of their burrowing, scratching, droppings, etc.

Churchill Island is part of a State Park, which includes several sections of Phillip Island, and there is a Marine National Park surrounding the island and including the environmentally significant mudflats of Westernport Bay around Swan Bay. We read that the White Mangrove swamps around the island are the most southerly remnant of swamps, which once were widespread.

Looking at the maps we had with us there are many more walks that can be done in the Phillip Island/ French Island area.

Participants: Claire Cassidy, Fran Miller, Peter Ryan, Ron Cann, Denis Nagle and new members Gayle Shields, Jan McPherson and Chris Avery.

Here is the trip report for a wonderful weekend that was enjoyed by all participants on the Wilson’s Prom hike to the lighthouse. Saturday morning saw us gathered at Tidal River Visitors’ Centre keen and eager to depart on what promised to be a lovely day for a walk. We left our cars parked at Telegraph saddle and set off. We commenced the walk down the management road; the weather was great and walking was easy so we had lots of conversation as we got to know each other. Cathy prepared a challenge or two to keep the interest high while we walked along. Peter was the lucky winner of the mystery prize for spotting the first live wildlife (a wallaby).

We stopped for morning tea at Halfway Hut, a lovely little building made from the local granite. A bit further along we left the road and took off along a bush track which was more varied with an abundance of native flowers giving us a taste of spring. Denis helped us with the identification of these as we were walking. There were some great views from the open plains before we descended into lovely fern filled gullies. There was plenty of evidence of the recent bush fires but fortunately the Australian bush has remarkable powers of recovery. This was apparent in the abundant regrowth.

Progressing on, we reached "Roaring Meg" camping ground where we had lunch. I was grateful that we were going to sleep in the luxury of the accommodation at the lighthouse. At this point, the newcomers in the group and a couple of chaperones (Denis and Cathy) decided to walk to the southern most point of the Australian mainland. This isn't at the lighthouse as you would think. South Point was an extra 7 km return. But we thought we might not get back again as at this stage it had mostly been easy going. The remainder of the group proceeded on to the lighthouse to secure their beds (first in best dressed) and to prepare our dinner (or so we thought).

I think my enthusiasm for the extra walk was misplaced, for when we finally arrived at the lighthouse we had to face those incredibly steep walks up what seemed to be never ending concrete driveways to the cottages. But exhaustion was replaced with joy when we had showers and sat down for pre dinner drinks and nibbles in a truly remarkable environment and wondered about those that lived there for years at a time attending to the light. The others had taken the tour of the lighthouse conducted by an ex-light-house keeper. He entertained them with tales of the past and brought the lighthouse to life for them.

The evening meal was a wonderful group effort and definitely gives a new meaning to hike food. We started with cheese, olives, dips and bruschetta as an entree, then the main meal of special fried rice and tortia wraps with fresh fillings. This was followed by homemade cheese cake and slice and an assortment of chocolates washed down with plenty of red wine, thanks to those who carried in the (5) bottles. The meal was a highlight and was greatly enjoyed by all (except the others who shared the cottage who looked on with envy).

The next morning we decided to sleep in and take advantage of the lovely location and delay our start so we could soak up the views (and have another coffee and pancakes) before heading off to Waterloo Bay. The climb over the hill and down into the bay had me wishing I hadn't walked 25 km the day before! The views along the way were spectacular and had me thinking of the tropics -sun shining, white sand, and beautiful blue water.

The group had lunch at the northern end of the beach beside large granite boulders streaked with orange lichen. The sheer beauty of the place got to Denis and he had to have a swim. We walked out through the valley rejoining the management track again for the final ascent back to the car park at Telegraph saddle. I left a bit earlier than the others because I was worried about making it on time as I was feeling the strain a little. But I made it, getting back just before the others caught up with me.

I would like to thank our leader, Cathy, for organising a fantastic weekend and fellow walkers for their company on my first overnight trip with the club and I hope to have many more. It was fantastic!

(PS by Denis Nagle on Prom walk) As Chris said the wildflowers were in great numbers, but without being able to fully examine each and check reference books I am not able to name all plants to species level. That being said, of particular interest was the 'Running Postman', Kennedia postrata a ground hugging vine like shrub, with a bright red pea type flower, one of its petals stands erect, like the little red flag that you might see on some letter boxes. This plant is usually sighted only occasionally amongst the heath but with the temporary absence of competition, since the recent fire, it has taken this window of opportunity to colonise while it can. One can only surmise that its seed will again lay dormant in the soil until the next favourable conditions.

Elsewhere there was a veritable palette of colours, yellows and oranges, a very prickly shrub possibly a Deviesia, another with a strange shaped leaf of which we finally found a flower, may have been the Large-leaf Bush-pea, Pultenaea daphnoides, a tall bright green leafed shrub with light yellow flowers was Golden-tip, Goodia lotifolia? And twining amongst these here and there were flashes of blue from a vine commonly known as 'Love Creeper', Comesperma volubile. Along the roadside there were white and blue daisies, and behind the beach at Waterloo Bay there were yellow Donkey, Sun and pink Fairy orchids.

In some places the regrowth was so thick that slashing had been carried out by Parks staff or else the track may have completely disappeared. New signs have been erected, some with photos of the aftermath of the recent fire and one also with what the area around Oberon Bay looked like in 1905. Instead of what is currently regrowing, Coast Tea Tree, Leptospermum lavigatum, it was once an open grassy woodland, with native grasses and scattered eucalypts, as the sign indicated. Changed fire regimes and grazing has irreversibly altered this landscape.

I'd also like to endorse Chris' thanks to Cathy. She did an excellent job in organising and leading her first trip. The Prom is a great place any time of the year but it is especially so at the moment, I'd strongly recommend a visit during this spring and summer. Tread lightly,

Michael, Richard and Julie were the lucky ones who joined Alan Wood for a perfect day on the Plateau. Snow shoes are excellent for easy access to areas that in summer would require a lot of toil and trouble bush bashing off track. Instead we were able to tread softly on the snow covering all those difficult shrubs with only the occasional ‘big foot’ breaking through the surface. Another bonus of this mode of travel - one is not constantly falling over as happens with those of us who are not so skilled at X country skiing. Lunch on a sun drenched rock away from the rest of the world, views to the horizon, even crossing Cascade Creek was not too problematic. Some smaller birds must think spring is on its way as they had joined the grey currawongs. We probably covered about a leisurely 10 -12 kms.

Big thanks to Parks Vic., Friends of Baw Baw N P and Alan for a unique day in ‘our’ glorious mountain environment.

Participants: Michael and Heather Haynes, Bill Wiglesworth, Denis Nagle, Nick Van Ewijk, Rod Catchpole, Rob Russell, Jenny Cann

As planned we met at the Robin Hood carpark, rationalised cars, and then drove on via Labertouche North Road and Bunyip River Road to the start of the walk. The track commences at the Bunyip River, initially following the Aqueduct track but soon heads off to the east, then north to follow what was the original tramway track to the site of Freemans Mill. It is a new track, so coloured tape is strategically placed to avoid confusion.

In the early 1900’s a network of tramways was developed, over a period of time, to bring timber to the railway at Longwarry. One such tramway was established to the junction of the Bunyip River and Tin Creek, at a distance of about 22km to the north of Longwarry, and a new mill was established at the terminus in 1911- Freemans Mill. The mill remained there for 16 years with a considerable settlement including “six four room houses, a similar number of huts,

a store, boarding house, a school and an eight-room cottage occupied by the Freeman family.”

The fires which swept through the area in 1926 completely destroyed the mill and the surrounding forest. Following this destruction “the State Rivers and Water Supply commission constructed a weir at the old site with many kilometres of open channels and piped siphons to carry water to the Lysterfield Reservoir, then being built to serve the Mornington Peninsula.” The Freemans received no compensation for the mill site. “Had the fire not occurred they would have been compensated for the loss of their mill site and logging area but, as things turned out, the bush was destroyed and they received nothing.” (see “Settlers and Sawmillers - A History of West Gippsland Tramways and the Industries they Served 1875-1934” by Mike McCarthy)

The Freemans Mill track has been recently developed by Bushwalking Victoria, in conjunction with Parks Victoria (Bunyip State Park) and is clearly marked. It enables easy walking through a variety of vegetation. Denis has been able to identify some of these for us – heaths, mostly a deep red, though sometimes pink and occasionally white were Common Heath (Epacris impressa); banksias, mostly found on the dryer slopes and in the under story of the forest were the Hairpin Banksia (Banksia spinulosa); the hakea, a very spiky shrub with small white grevillia type flowers and woody seed pods, is commonly known as Bushy Needlewood (Hakea sericea); just coming into flower was Dusty Miller (Spyridium parvifolium); the pea (the prostrate, vine like herb, with leathery type dark green leaves) that will be in flower in another month or two is the Handsome flat pea ( Platylobium formosum); the correa was the Mountain Correa (Correa lawrenciana); the holly leaf sapling is Tree Lomatia (Lomatia fraseri); the bauera was probably the Wiry Bauera (Bauera rubioides) which is very similar to the Grampians Bauera (Bauera sessiliflora). In the gullies were either the Hard tree fern (Cyathea a

ustralis) or more likely the Soft tree fern (Dicksonia antartica), also Hazel Pomaderris (Pomaderris aspera). We were especially fortunate to see several greenhoods which Ron had spotted on his recce the week before. All promised us that spring is not too far away.

After some three hours of walking we reached ‘a clearing’, though a little overgrown now, which had been the site of the settlement. A little further on is the site of the mill itself which is now marked by a huge hill of sawdust, consolidated but still spongy. Beside it lies the Bunyip River and the Bunyip Weir where the water race begins. We lunched there under sunny skies and took time to wander around and imagine the activity and industry which had marked this area so many years before. We then retraced our steps to the cars.

A fitting end to a most enjoyable day was “coffee and slice” in a popular eating place in Warragul. As we drove in to Warragul the rain started – perfect timing!

We met in the car park at Mt St Gwinear at about 10 a.m. and spent a little time preparing our gear and completing the necessary paperwork. As we got out of the car it began snowing quite heavily and it continued to do so intermittently throughout the day. We commenced skiing about 10:30.

The snow was the best I have seen there for many years – perhaps ever! A metre at the summit, and at least 60 cm all over, so we could ski from the very edge of the car park. There were some icy patches, but mostly the snow was soft with a fresh surface covering.

The first couple of kilometres were nearly all uphill, but the Nordic skis coped easily and the going was fine. Needless to say that John (a member of the St Gwinear ski patrol) found himself waiting for Nick and me as we found our “skiing legs”.

We followed the track to the summit of Mt St Gwinear (1509 metres) and then continued on until we met the Alpine Walking Track near a natural rock shelter formation. Here we left the main trail and followed several valleys. There were creeks and streams somewhere below the snow, and we had to be careful to avoid the odd icy pool!

About noon, during a short spell of clear weather, we stopped for a light lunch, choosing a snowy mound just off the track. We continued on to Freemans Flat and then a number of other flats and snow plains, at one time coming quite close to the Baw Baw trails, but time was getting on so we decided not to go further.

At about 2:00 pm, when the sun broke through briefly, we stopped for a ‘second lunch’, and then we circled to meet what should have been the Blue Pole Line, but which turned out to be the ‘blue ribbon line’. This led us back towards Mt St Gwinear and we rejoined our outward trail for the run home. We arrived back at the car park at about 5:00, along the way meeting a couple of ski patrollers, one of whom was Marg Sunderland.

Our final bit of excitement was helping to push-start Nick’s van which had a frozen handbrake. John then left to set up his overnight camp in the snow whilst everyone else (Nick, me and several rangers and patrollers) left on the homeward run.

Participants: John Sunderland, Rod Catchpole, Michael and Heather Haynes, Nick Van Ewijk, Bill and Claire Wiglesworth, Jenny Cann.

I awoke to the early morning radio crossing to the BOM and the Melbourne traffic report. Winds speeds on the West Gate Bridge had reached 80 km per hour and the Bureau was forecasting snow down to 500m., though not until later in the day. It was the classic dilemma re events and weather; to be a bit of a “whimp” and “pull the pin”, or to throw caution “to the wind”, and push on regardless. That was on the morning of July 17^th.

I had visited the Billy’s Creek section of the Morwell National Park on the previous Sunday. Rob Hooper had told me that he had recently discovered literally dozens of large fallen eucalypts around and across Billys Creek. The heavy rains which flooded East Gippsland had reached this area too and Billys Creek had also flooded. The combination of wind and waterlogged roots had proved too much for many of these magnificent trees. A chance meeting with Wayne and Joanne Leviston had us surveying the devastation together, before continuing into some of the higher areas of the Park.

It was the image of this destruction that swayed me to consider postponing the walk; how strong would the winds be by the time we started walking, and if so many trees had fallen, how many more might be on the verge of coming down? So I “pulled the pin”, to the disappointment of some from “the Valley”, where the sun was shining brightly! It is in these circumstances that one then proceeds to hope that the wind howls and the rain is torrential! And so it did later in the day, and by nightfall the area of our walk was covered in snow!

Waking to bright sunny skies on the morning of the 24^th July, I was pleased to have delayed the walk by a week. All of the previous party had been able to reschedule to this week, and in addition Bill’s daughter Claire came along.

We met at the Kerry Road picnic area, and after the compulsory cuppa, began the Fosters Gully Nature Walk of 2.3km. It is an easy walk with numbered stopping points and accompanying descriptive notes to highlight ecological and historical aspects of the Park. The beauty of not setting too large an agenda for the day is that one can genuinely take one’s time, and this we did. Jenny was the first to spot a Koala, and then Rod another. A Wallaby crossed the track and posed from the safety of the bush some 20 metres away. We saw or heard a variety of birds: Crimson Rosellas, King Parrots, the Lewin Honeyeater, Yellow Robins, White-throated Tree-creepers, Shrike Thrushes, and the delightful Superb Lyrebird. The nature notes gave insights into the former usage of this area and of the role of Mrs Ellen Lyndon and the Latrobe valley field Naturalist Club in having the park proclaimed in 1967.

We lunched before moving on to the Billy’s Creek area of the Park. John had been spoken of the importance of the park for its orchids, and before moving on had taken us for a quick look at an unusual tree orchid which grows here. A return visit in December would see them in flower.

A car shuffle had us all ready to descend into the Billys Creek area, from Lindeners Rd. This section was added to the Park between 1989 and 1991, increasing the diversity of natural environments and expanding the walking opportunities that were previously available in the Fosters Gully area. A vehicular track leads from Lindeners Rd. to a spur descending to “Bald Hill”, renamed by us as “Thistle Hill” for obvious reasons! The negatives of its ground cover are more than made up for by the magnificence of the views, not only over the ribbon-like National Park below, but to the north and west, over Churchill and the expanse of the Latrobe Valley, through to the lofty heights of the distant Baw Baw Plateau.

From here the well-graded Clematis Track zigzags down to Billys Creek. We almost fell over a small wombat grazing on the track in broad daylight. It scrambled over the edge of the track, still on cleared ground, and proceeded to “hide” behind the smallest of mounds such that its head was hidden but nothing else. It reminded us of a small child who “hides” by covering eyes with hands – as if “I can’t see them so they can’t see me”!

After reaching Billys Creek, we headed upstream for a few hundred metres to the Billys Creek Weir. It was constructed in 1914 and once supplied Morwell with drinking water. Park notes say that the pipeline was of wood, though it is the remnants of a steel pipeline and valves that are still visible today. Perhaps what we were seeing was not the original pipeline. The weir must have been much bigger in those days, over 90 years ago. This latest flood has obviously shifted a massive amount of silt and other debris, so not surprising that over the years the weir should partly silt up.

We were amazed at the amount of fallen timber at this point – dozens of trees have come down. One very large eucalypt, perhaps a metre and a half in diameter, had fallen across a concrete pylon and “broken its back”. One can only imagine the forces involved, and the noise and chaos that must have been involved.

After a scramble around the weir and fallen timber, and a drink and snack, it was back on the Billys Creek track for the walk downstream to cars left at the Junction Road Car Park. There was much evidence of recent flooding, with debris indicating that the highest levels would have made the track impassable. It would have been an impressive sight.

So far the monthly Tuesday walks are proving to be a “goer”. Please keep the ideas coming in – and if you can spare the time to walk on a third Tuesday of the coming months, please consider offering to put a trip on the program.

Participants: Rae Moore, Henk Pillekers , Michael & Heather Haynes, Denis Nagle, John Sunderland, Rod Catchpole, Jenny Cann, Brigitte Van Pee

Mardi 19 juin à 9h30 nous avions rendez-vous à Neerim Junction. De là nous sommes partis pour Powelltown. Les voitures garées à l'aire de pique nique, nous nous sommes dirigés vers le début du chemin de "ReidsTramline".

Nous avons traversé la rivière "Little Yarra". Après 3 km nous sommes arrivés à l’endroit de Reids Sawmill. Tout ce qui reste de la scierie est une "saw blade" pliée par la chaleur des bushfires. Sommes restés là quelques minutes le temps de prendre des photos et de boire et de manger un snack. L'endroit est absolument magnifique. Le temps était superbe, c'est à dire qu'il ne faisait pas trop chaud et pas trop froid, juste parfait pour une promenade. La météo était pluie et mauvais temps mais à part une petite bruine ... Mais je dois dire que c'était la fête pour les sangsues !

Après notre arrêt nous sommes repartis et avons traversé le ruisseau Blackwood. Les "Tree ferns" et tous les Eucalyptus sont splendides. Après une petite montée sur 1 km, nous sommes arrivés au sommet et avons rejoint le "Big Bertha Track" et avons commencé notre descente qui ne fut pas une mince affaire à cause des "trail bikes" (qui n'ont rien à faire la) et qui ont endommagés le sentier. Le chemin était très glissant mais tout le monde est arrivé sain et sauf au parking pour le lunch sous une petite pluie.

Ensuite nous sommes partis vers "The Bump Tunnel" en direction de Noojee. Arrêt pour aller voir l'entrée et la sortie du tunnel. Dans les années 20, on construisit un tunnel pour chemin de fer pour faciliter la livraison du bois vers les scieries. Le tunnel faisait 320 m de long. Les 2 extrémités du tunnel sont fermées maintenant pour sécurité. Avons traversé la rivière Latrobe mais n'avons pas trouve l'endroit où "Nayook West" était.

Nous sommes partis pour Noojee pour une dernière promenade facile de 5 km (return) le long de la rivière Loch Valley - ce sentier s'appelle "the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Walk". Nous avons trouvé quelques restes des ponts et de la ligne de tram qui ont brulé lors du bushfire de 1939. Et pour finir la journée en beauté, nous avons vu un wombat dans le parc.

Mais il commençait à faire sombre et nous avons donc décidé d'aller prendre un café ou autre avant de se séparer. Tout étant fermé à Noojee nous nous sommes arrêtés avec Jenny, Ron, Rae, Henk et moi même à Neerim South. Ce fut une excellente journée et j'espère qu'il y en aura encore beaucoup d'autres comme ça. Merci à Ron d'avoir organise cette journée.

Tuesday 19th June we met at Neerim Junction. From there we left for Powelltown. The vehicles parked in a picnic area, we headed towards the start of Reids Tramline track.

We crossed the Little Yarra River. After 3km we arrived at the site of Reids Sawmill. All that was left of the sawmill was a saw blade, bent by the heat of the bushfires. We stopped there for several minutes to take photos and to have a drink and a snack. The place is absolutely magnificent. The weather was superbe, that is to say it was neither too hot nor too cold, just perfect for a walk. The weather forecast was for rain and bad weather but there was only a little drizzle…But I must say it was a celebration for the leeches!

After our stop we continued on and crossed the Blackwood Stream. The tree ferns and all the eucalypts were splendid. After a little climb over 1km, we arrived at the summit and rejoined the big Bertha Track and started to descend which was no small effort because trail bikes (which shouldn’t have been there) had damaged the track. The path was very slippery but everyone arrived safe and sound at the parking area for lunch in a light shower of rain.

Then we drove towards The Bump Tunnel in the direction of Noojee. We stopped to see the entrance and then the exit of the tunnel. In the 1920’s, the tunnel was constructed for the train to enable the movement of wood to the sawmills. The tunnel was 320m long. The two ends of the tunnel are now closed for security. We crossed the Latrobe River, but were unable to find the site of Nayook West. We left for Noojee for a last easy walk (5km return) along the Loch Valley River – this path is called the Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Walk. We found the remains of several bridges and the tramline was burnt in the 1939 fires. And to finish the day beautifully we saw a wombat in the park!

With dark approaching we decided to have a coffee before separating. Everything was closed at Noojee so Jenny, Ron, Rae, Henk and I stopped at Neerim South.

This was an excellent day and I hope that there will be lots of others like it. Thank you to Ron for organising the day.

With much anticipation and a slight feeling of unease at not knowing what lay ahead our small party ventured out on what leader Robert described as ‘a little bit of a walk’.

We started off uphill in light drizzle with low visibility, it wasn’t looking good for the views from Kosciusko. (I think that’s how you spell it) We startled a group of Brumbies grazing in the distance and even though they are feral animals I think they add to the folklore of the bush and they would be missed if they weren’t there.

After not having carried a pack for a few months and having to carry 7 days of food I was surprised at how well I was walking.

After a pleasant couple of hours or so of walking uphill, we reached the top of the main range in dense fog. We stumbled across a few hand tools left behind and even though I could have done with the hammer lying on the ground I thought it may be a bit over the top carrying it for another 7 days.

It was cold and the mist was getting heavier but there were large numbers of walkers out for the day. We stopped at the new Taj Mahal toilets being constructed below the summit of Kossie and tried to huddle out of the wind whilst we ate lunch. It was cold! Realising that the views from the top would be zero we skipped the summit. Continuing on we dropped down out of the fog and found a pleasant camp site below Mt Townsend. Without packs we went for a wander across the alpine meadows and scaled the heights of Townsend for some wonderful views.

As it was freezing outside we were in the tents early and woke to find a deep frost on the tent. The day dawned fine and clear and cold! A perfect day for walking. We headed off across the alpine meadows and met Ms Hitler. She was a parks education officer and she was on a mission hunting down wayward hikers who had camped in the alpine lake catchments. After giving us the third degree she was off to make sure no one had camped where they weren’t supposed to.

We strolled in bright sunshine, a far cry from the previous day, and enjoyed the feeling of isolation as we left the day walkers behind. We passed Albina Lake, Mt Northcote and numerous other points of interest to eventually arrive at Mt Tate. What a wonderful view you get from the top. All the main range was in view and the previously hidden Mt Kosciusko was standing like a giant watching over the countryside. We made our way over to Stephen Consett Pass (what wonderful names they have in NSW) and set up camp. A beautiful mountain stream, Dicky Cooper Creek, was full of the sweetest tasting water you could ever get. Another early night was had and we again woke to a heavy frost.

The morning dawned bright and clear and we strolled up to the Rolling Grounds. Boulders were strewn across the landscape in a jumbled mess. It was like a moonscape. God must have been angry the day he created this area. It was pleasant walking as we headed across the undulating ground heading for Dicky Cooper Bogong for a lunch stop. What a nice spot to sit and enjoy the views.

It was quite warm as we sat there and we seemed to have the world to ourselves. We wandered on and descended to Dicky Cooper Creek where we stripped off and had a bit of a tub. A short climb bought us out on to a barren vehicle track and it didn’t look very inviting after spending the last few days wandering across the mountain tops. It was only a short walk to Valentine River fire trail which was much more pleasant. We were passed by a sole mountain bike rider and then came across a swag that must have rolled off the back of a 4WD. Another small group of walkers passed us going the other way and we arrived at Valentines Hut with plenty of daylight to spare. We explored the area and settled into the hut for a game of 500. Can’t remember who won but it was a nice way to spend the evening.

Once again we awoke to a cold morning and frost on the tent. It was a pleasant wander down the Valentine River to see the falls which are some 120 metres high. But like most water falls you don’t really get to see much of them. The junction of the Valentine and ? Rivers was a beautiful spot and we spent a memorable two hours walking up the Back Flat Creek Valley to Grey Mare Mine Hut. What a beautiful spot and the mine had plenty of interesting machinery left lying around. It made us wonder how they ever got the stuff in there in the first place. There was a huge fly wheel that must have weighed several tonnes lying on the ground. Lunch was had in this great spot and we could see the distance top of Mt Jagungal, our target for the night. It looked a long way from us. Are you sure it’s only 8 km’s away Rob?

We met a young couple doing our walk in the reverse direction and they were the last people we saw for a few days. Considering the brilliant weather we were having, and it was Easter, we expected to see a few more walkers around.

A pleasant walk along the fire trail after lunch led us to the base of Jagungal and we had a scrubby climb through a creek and then a steep climb to the site of our fourth night, tucked in below Jagungal.

A pleasant evening was had admiring the stars, and the jets flying overhead on their route between Melb-Sydney left long jet trails in the chilly night air. Once again we were in the tents early as it was too cold to sit outside for long. Where’s me long johns?

I’ve got a few more days to write, and wanting to catch the newsletter I’ll put a few more details down for the next issue.

Easter Walk 2007 Snowy Mountains - Mt Jagungal. (continued)

Date: 6^th – 13^th April (7 day extended walk)

Leader: Rob Bentvelzen

Participants: Peter Ryan, Tim Loffler

After a cold night spent on the southern shoulder of Mt Jagungal we packed our tents in brilliant sunshine. Another glorious day ahead of us and an easy stroll to the top of Jagungal to take some more photos and lounge about in the sun.

They call this a mountain but it is only a couple of hundred meters higher than the surrounding countryside. No 1000m climb to get to the top of a mountain as you would expect in Victoria. These New South Wales people get it easy, no big climbs, water everywhere and magnificent country to wander through. It just doesn’t get any better than this!!!!!

We sauntered over the top and made our way to the other side and gradually dropped back down to the fire trail. There was a funny looking building with strange looking blades sticking out of the top near the track. Some one said it was a weather station but it looked more like an oversized egg beater.

Another tough day walking along the fire trail. I don’t know how we can keep this up for days on end. The pressure was getting to me. Oh I wish I was back at work!

We plodded along for a few hours admiring the scenery and wondering how many trout were in all the rivers that we crossed. Wayne Burge would love it up here!

We decided to make for Mackey hut for lunch and before we had even sat down we spotted a group of cattle wandering down the track towards us. Thinking that they must have been feral cattle we took a couple of photos to report to the rangers when we got back home. They didn’t seem to mind us and they looked like they were having a wonderful time munching on all that alpine grass.

A pleasant hour or so was spent eating lunch and soaking up the atmosphere. I would love to walk into somewhere like this one day with a few books to read and just sit and enjoy the atmosphere for a few days! It will happen one day!

We pressed on in more sunshine and headed for Crooks racecourse. A racecourse out here! I wonder if we can place a bet on race three! The racecourse passed what looked like freehold land and there were more cattle behind a fence, so the mystery was solved as to where the cattle had come from. Who would have had freehold land all the way out here!

The going was relatively easy with no big up or downs, just an easy undulating landscape. As the day wore on and my feet got sore I was beginning to wonder how far OGL was going to make us walk. We plodded on and on and it became a slog to get to the end of the day. We were heading for Dr Philips hut and Rob assured us it wasn’t far to go. As the day wore on and there was no sign of the hut I was hoping we would just stop somewhere close to a water spot for the night. Rob assured us that it was just around the corner but as the sun started to dip on the horizon I thought we must stop soon. Well, we found a few drums sunk in the ground and some bits and pieces lying around but no hut! The track notes assured us there was a hut but we couldn’t find it! At last we dropped our packs and set up camp. Boy were my feet sore! I wished I had one of those foot massage things with me. When Rob checked his bearings he told us we had walked for 24 km for the day!

No wonder I was ready to drop!

It was Robs turn to cook so I thought it would be wonderful to open a bottle of red and sit and enjoy the view across the snow plain! Well it was a nice thought.

An enjoyable meal and the usual cold air came down on us and it was time to get into the tent. It always amazes me how warm a tent can be when outside the temperature drops to below freezing. Two thin pieces of fabric separated by an air pocket and you have a cosy place to spend the night.

The morning dawned fine and clear and Rob decided to go dig a hole. Well he disappeared for a while and I didn’t think much of it. After about 20 minutes I heard a faint Cooee and I yelled back. Rob had got himself bushwhacked and couldn’t find his way back to the tents!!! Poor bugger was slightly embarrassed when he came back.

We were heading for four mile hut for the night and it was going to be another beautiful day in the alps. Only a few km to do today and Rob promised an early finish. Well, after yesterday’s slog I was hoping for a shorter walk. We wandered off at an easy pace, still hoping to catch a glimpse of the mysterious Dr Philips hut. But alas we didn’t see it.

We climbed up to a lookout on top of ?? and the views were spectacular. There was a bit of smoke around, probably from controlled burn offs. We could look back from where we had come and Jagungal was a long way back in the distance. It does stand out from the rest of the landscape and is an iconic walk destination for the area.

We continued on looking forward to having a look at the mine workings at Nine mile diggings. There was a huge sluicing area where the soil was washed by high pressure hoses and the hard won gold was prized from the earth. But apart from the big hole there was no other sign of this area having housed 5000 workers in the late 1800’s.

An hour or so later we wandered into the four mile hut camp. What a beautiful little hut. It must be one of my favourites! It sits above a snow plain and overlooks an area that had numerous gold workings. We relaxed in the sun for a couple of hours and as the sun went down cooked a meal in the hut. We got a fire going in the stove and lit our candles and settled in for a few hours of cards with 500. I forget who won but it was a wonderful way to spend our last night together on the walk.

Who needs to spend hundreds of dollars when you can get this accommodation for free?

The end of the walk came too soon and we made our way down to the road in Kiandra to wait for Martin Gwynne to pick us up. It was a nice little spot to amble around for a while in the sun and look at the historic gold workings.

Now Martin is an interesting character! He never ceases to amaze me with the things he carries on walks and whilst he wasn’t on the walk he didn’t fail to impress me with the little coffee maker he had in the car.

Beautiful fresh coffee was had by all sitting in the sun.

When I got home I took my shirt out of the pack. Boy, did I smell that bad?!

Thanks to Rob Bentzelzen for leading and to Tim Loffler for making a wonderful walk. And thanks to Martin for making the long drive to pick us up!

Peter Ryan

It started with a simple question – Peter, what would you like to do for your 50th?? Thinking our options were a party at home, a dinner out with friends and family, or

at least a Sunday BBQ, I surprisingly found myself sitting on a flight to Argentina, with the daunting prospect of a few weeks hiking in South America looming ahead of me.

You see, Peter decided he didn’t want a party; he wanted to leave the country instead! So, with limited time available to us, we decided to sign up for a couple of Peregrine’s trekking tours. The main hiking activities were to be in the Torres del Paine National Park, Chile, the Los Glaciers National Park, Argentina, and finally the Inca Trail, Peru. I was feeling exhausted already!!

We spent our first night in Buenos Aires, then caught a flight south to El Calafate, which was to be our base for the Patagonian part of our trip. We met up with our leader and the eight others who would be trekking with us. A few of us went for a get-to-know you dinner and we tried some of the Argentinean red wine (delicious!). We set off at 6.00am the next day by local tourist bus across vast plains to the Chilean border where we completed passport formalities then transferred to a smaller bus for the trip to the Torres del Paine National Park.

We were starting to see some of the spectacular scenery that would be the background for our hiking over the next 4 days – snow capped peaks, greyish glacier-fed lakes and clear blue skies. It was amazing to see pink flamingos on a small lake and guanacos (similar to llamas) roaming alongside the road.

We arrived at our campsite around 4.30pm to find our tents erected and a cook preparing our dinner – now this is hiking!! We also had a magnificent view of the three Torres del Paine (towers) which would be our destination in the morning. After an enjoyable dinner (which even included a few bottles of wine) we adjourned in readiness for the next day’s walk.

Day 1 was described in the brochure as a 19km walk, “mostly ups and downs”. It was a sunny day and we started out crossing small streams followed by a gradual uphill. The track was loose shale in some areas and continued for a number of hours, growing steeper as we progressed (this was the “mostly ups” bit). However, the scenery was beautiful; you’d turn a corner and have a breathtaking view down a valley with a pristine river and distant trees, framed by snow-capped peaks. We stopped for lunch just before our final climb– this was about an hour’s scramble over rocks but was well worth the effort as we breached the last steep part to be met with an unrestricted view of the three towers. They were surrounded by glacial peaks and there was a glacial lake at the base. Truly spectacular!! Many photos were taken by all then we set off for the return journey (yes, the “mostly downs” bit). Tired and weary we returned to our campsite around 5.30pm for a quick debrief and hearty dinner - and joy of joys there were hot showers (if you were quick!!).

The next day we headed off to the next campsite – Campo Italiano. This was an 11km walk with about 2km of easy and 9km of medium. We set off to a sunny morning and a relaxing stroll through forests beside pristine glacier fed lakes.

We stopped at a lovely viewpoint for our lunch overlooking the lakes. The winds came up as we were having lunch and we quickly finished to get down from our exposed spot. As we scurried down the track trying to hold everything together, the rains started and we were hit with sleet. Apparently this part of the park is renowned for such weather and receives more rain than any other part of the park. This continued for about an hour before we reached a “refugio”, accommodation which can be booked to stay in, or you can camp nearby. It offered drinks and meals so was a welcome place to hole up for a couple of hours before we could set off again with slightly dampened spirits – still with lovely views as we walked beside the lakes. We arrived at camp around 5.30pm and were grateful that our tents were ready for us to fall into. Dinner was again a great meal, this time spaghetti accompanied by the obligatory red wine.

The next day looked dreary so it was into the wet weather gear again for a climb to view the French Glacier. This was a reasonable climb alongside a fast-flowing glacier-fed river with again terrific views in all directions. The viewpoint was windy but offered great views of the four lakes we had walked past the day before, together with ice-capped peaks and threatening glaciers cascading down them. You would occasionally hear a gunshot sound and quickly look for signs of an avalanche but the size of the peaks and the likelihood of the sound traveling large distances meant that it was probably not close by.

From the viewpoint, Peter headed further uphill to another lookout – I opted to head back to camp with a few others for a little bit of R and R. Heading further on enabled Peter and friends a closer-up view of the glaciers and included a meeting with a couple of English tourists who were willing to share their delicious muffins – apparently making it well worth the extra 3 hours hiking!!

The next morning we packed up again to move to our final campsite. A 19km walk again, highlighted by views of Gray Lake which is fed by the Gray Glacier. A special part of the day was rounding a corner to see dozens of small icebergs floating out in the lake – they were a magnificent blue colour which is caused by the minerals remaining in the glacial ice after the oxygen is compacted out over thousands of years. And boy that water must be old!

The most spectacular sight of the day though was to see the point where the glacier wall meets the lake and the massive expanse of glacier (some 17km long) running back up into the distance with the sun shining on it in the late afternoon – it was truly glorious. As we sat there soaking in the view, four magnificent condors flew overhead as if to welcome us. Cameras were snapping away madly as we tried to capture their graceful flight.

As much as we’d have liked to stay longer, we still had to get to our campsite, so we set off high above the edge of the lake and finally lost sight of the glacier. But it was a nice two hour forest walk to our night in the refugio close to the Grey Glacier. We were expecting tents again so it was with mixed feelings that we found we were sharing dorm rooms as a group. Good because we’d have nice hot showers, dinner in the dining room and bar available. Bad because there were a few snorers in the group so an interrupted night was had by most. Personally, I’d have preferred the tent!!

Our last day at Torres del Paine commenced with a cooked breakfast and pack up of gear to catch the boat to view the glacier at close hand. This was an amazing trip motoring slowly between the floating icebergs towards the face of the glacier. The different shades of blue and white and textures of the glacier were incredible. As we snapped away happily with our cameras, a crew member off the boat appeared offering a tray of glasses filled with the local aperitif, Pisco Sour, with a huge chunk of glacier ice in each to cool the drinks. Extremely unexpected at 9.30am but a nice touch.

As we passed along the glacier we saw large chunks break off and crash into the water, some even large enough to make waves that rocked the boat. The wall was around 4-6 metres high and around 4km across, with an island in the middle that the glacier was wrapped around.

We reluctantly left the glacier and were dropped at a small jetty for our van transfer. Back to the border where we transferred to a larger bus, through passport formalities again and then we were on our way back to El Calafate. The first part of our trip was over and having enjoyed the experience so much we were looking forward to what was to come.

(Our report on further hiking in Patagonia and the Inca Trail will be in the next issue.)

South America: Part 2 – Patagonia & The Inca Trail

Date: 18th March to 19th April

Participants: Robyn Shingles & Peter Maffei

The second part of our trip started with a day trip out of El Calafate to the Perito Moreno glacier, only about an hour’s drive and rather “touristy” but well worth the visit. We boated across the face of the glacier then strapped on crampons to walk on the glacier. There were quite a few ups and downs involved and some stepping over crevices in the ice – a bit exciting as some of those holes were deep. Some amusing conversation ensued as to how much it would take for us to swim across the face of the glacier naked, until we all realized we’d freeze within a few minutes anyway so the point was moot!! Back on the boat then off to a series of walkways and viewing platforms, which gave, a great view of the vastness and height of the glacier, all viewed from as close as 20 metres away. Very spectacular. Then it was back to El Calafate for an early bus trip the next day to El Chalten.

With a permanent population of only 400, El Chalten is a renowned mountain climbing area dominated by Mt Fitzroy, with a number of less strenuous walks also available. The town was to be our base for a few days with our accommodation a simple hotel in town. Our group’s number had now dwindled to five as others headed off in other directions or home. We arrived by bus first to the information centre where we were given an introduction to the area and a briefing on looking after the environment – i.e. the glacier fed rivers and lakes are pristine, so keep them that way. I thought this a good idea to remind tourists on the way in. We arrived late morning and after lunch went for a walk up above the town for a bit of familiarisation.

For our first walk the next day we were driven by van about 10km out of town then dropped to walk back via the Laguna de los Tres – a distance for the day of around 23km. It was a beautiful sunny day and as we walked we could see snow-capped peaks in the near distance. Although we had already discovered that most of the time Mt Fitzroy is covered in clouds. The track was alongside a river and through a sparse forest then crossed over towards the peaks. We stopped for lunch at a camp-site, then climbed a steep zigzag track for about an hour before reaching a small peak overlooking two lakes, one the usual greyish glacial water colour, the other a magnificent almost royal blue. It was amazing to sit looking down into the lakes on one side then turn around to look back over the valley we had just climbed up from – the views were amazing. We headed back towards town feeling a little tired but rewarded ourselves with a delicious restaurant meal in town.

The next day we headed off in the opposite direction to view the Laguna d’Agostino on the other side of Mt Fitzroy which feeds the Fitzroy River, which runs from the mountain down through the town. After an uphill start, the 20km+ walk was steady ups and downs through forest and gullies, and included a sighting of several woodpeckers. They were quite tame and we were able to get close-up for photos. We were snapping away madly until some other walkers (Canadians) went past and looked at us like we were stupid. Oh well, for us they were a novelty. And they must really damage the trees – many looked very sick dotted with holes some as big as your fist.

We walked back along the raging Fitzroy River and saw footings in the river where they had attempted to build a hydro power station – until they realized that the water froze in the winter so there wasn’t much point!! Back to town for another dinner out (we were on holiday after all) – and for a small town El Chalten has some brilliant restaurants!

For our last day in town, the group basically split – one was ill so not walking anywhere, the rest were heading on a “strenuous” climb while I opted for a solo walk of about 10km to view a nearby waterfall (although a strong headwind made it seem like I was never going to get there!). Peter opted for the strenuous climb to about 1000m and thoroughly enjoyed the day. They were rewarded with fine views of Mt Fitzroy without clouds and its surrounding peaks – some very spectacular scenery. They also visited a mountainside, which was a vast field of fossils and spent time identifying interesting items such as sea snake, shellfish and molluscs. They returned to town around 5.00pm and of course we had one final dinner out in El Chalten.

It was a 6.00am departure from El Chalten (I was starting to get used to them!) to return to El Calafate – our Patagonian trekking now over. We farewelled our guide and other walkers then repacked our gear ready for our flight out the next morning. As we checked in, we discovered that we were flying to Buenos Aires via Ushuaia at the very tip of southern Argentina. This is where the boat trips to Antarctica set off from so we were very interested to see this part of the world. From the plane window you could see tall mountains covered in snow and beautiful lakes. Although it increased the length of our flight, it was still an enjoyable detour.

We landed in Buenos Aires around 5.00pm. After a mad dash from the domestic airport to the international airport (would you believe they moved the flight landing location!!), queue jumping and a sprint through the corridors, we caught our plane to Lima, Peru. However, our packs weren’t so lucky and we landed about 1.00am with no luggage!! Another delay as we, and other fellow travellers, reported the loss then we finally made it to our hotel around 2.30am. Luckily our packs turned up around lunchtime the next day...

We spent two days in Lima before flying to Cusco where we were to set off for the Inca Trail. Cusco is a city of about 300,000 at an altitude of 3,400m. Having had an experience with mild altitude sickness before (headaches, nauseas, light-headedness), I was determined to do the right thing to try and minimize it. We bought some coca leaves to chew (tastes like lawn clippings), drank lots of water and took it very easy on the first day in town. You soon discovered when walking uphill how the altitude affects you. The hotel we stayed at had a continuous urn of coca tea for the guests which was also helpful, although for me it still had that mild grass clippings taste and needed a good dose of sugar!

If any of you are soccer fans, you may like to know that the Argentinean team Boca juniors were playing against the local Cusco team that evening so the city was quite busy. Cusco won 3-0 (they did have the advantage of being used to the altitude after all) and the town square erupted into celebrations – it was fun to be there.

After two days in Cusco, where we visited local villages and nearby Inca sites, we set off by bus from Cusco for the start of the Trail. We picked up porters along the way – they would carry tents, food, etc., and some of our gear as well. I was pleased with this as I’m sure I couldn’t carry a full pack at altitude. Weight was strictly regulated though so we had to make sure we packed lightly.

The first part of the walk for our group of 8 was almost like walking through someone’s garden – lovely trees and plants alongside a well made mostly flat trail. We stopped for lunch overlooking some Inca ruins - we were to see many such ruins, most in amazing condition, during our four day trek. We passed through small farming settlements along the way and reached our first night’s campsite after travelling around 11km around 5.00pm.

The second day was to be the longest and toughest walking. We set out at 8.00am and climbed steadily until stopping for a break around 10.30am. We were still travelling through small agricultural areas, with a few llamas and the occasional horse along the way. We headed onwards and upwards to “Dead Woman’s Pass” at 4,200m (where a German man shot his wife!!). A tough climb but okay if you did it at your own pace. The weather was closing in a bit as we headed downhill. The path was now mostly stone and I was grateful for my trekking poles, great for the downhill stretches on hard, sometimes uneven ground. Through the rain we continued on to our lunch stop where our porters had set up a tent and unbelievably prepared a hot meal!

We waited for the rain to ease a little before setting off uphill again towards the second pass for the day – this one at 3,780m. The views were slightly obscured by cloud but it was still a terrific walk. Along the way were a couple of stops to investigate some ruins before we reached our campsite set high in the hills with a beautiful view. Even though there were other campers (you must have a booked site before even starting the walk), you hardly noticed they were there. Having conquered the two highest passes of the trail, we all slept pretty well that night.

The third day we set off again on the amazing paved paths high up in the mountains. After about an hour we hit a long stretch of stone steps, both up and down, which seemed to go on for hours. Apparently there were over 2,500 steps to climb that day. On the way we saw many terraces carved into the hillsides and you wondered how on earth they managed to create them with such symmetry.

Our final night’s campsite was in another spectacular location. The opposite hillside was covered with terraces and there were ruins just down the track. Our tents were perched on the edge of one of the terraces with the meal tent on the terrace below. You had to be careful if wandering around in the dark. Hot showers were available for a few dollars and there was even a bar and café.

Heavy rain had started again and during the night I half expected a mudslide to sweep us off the terrace! We woke during the night to huge rolling thunder and swore we felt the earth move. We found out the next day there had actually been a “four on the Richter scale” earthquake not too far away!

An early start was planned for the final day in order to reach Machu Picchu by sunrise. However, our guide suggested that because of the weather the sunrise would be obscured by cloud, so there was little point in getting up at 4.30am to walk by torchlight. Instead we got an extra hour’s sleep and were pretty much the last group to leave the campsite. We caught up with others along the way and made it to the “Sungate” entrance to Machu Picchu before 8.00am.

Despite the cloud, our first view of Machu Picchu was still absolutely incredible. To see the stone buildings all hand built in the 15th century sprawling down the side of the mountain was well worth the effort to get there. We had arrived ahead of the crowds who come by train then bus from Cusco so were able to wander around and soak up the atmosphere in relative peace and quiet. We managed to see quite a bit of the site, although the clouds and rain gradually closed in and we eventually decided to head down to the town to dry off and await our train back to Cusco, which was scheduled for 5.00pm. It had taken us four days to travel the 35km of the spectacular Inca trail and it had been a great trip.

The last few days of our trip did not involve much walking, but we did get to visit Lake Titicaca in Peru, and had a few days to wind down at Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, before heading home and back to reality. Now we just have to start planning the next trip.. and get those hundreds of photos printed!!

Robyn Shingles

Participants: Richard McNeil, Colleen McNeil, Kevin Perry, Peter Dyt and Rob Bentvelzen.

We met at Rob’s place in Drouin on Saturday morning and set off. Yarra Glen was the coffee stop and then into the Murrindindi Reserve arriving about 10:30. Our other walker, a friend of Richard, was already there so introductions were made and tents set up. We had our lunch then drove up to the cascades carpark and walked down river to our campsite. This is a 10 km walk along the river which is very scenic. Sections of the track follow an old tramway from 1920's logging activity and pass a sawmill site. The track was in good condition and has recently had a footbridge replaced and track work done.

We arrived back at camp around five, got the fire going and had pre-dinner drinks and then had our meal. The night turned cold so the fire was well stoked and, after some nice conversation and equally nice port and chocolate, we retired.

Sunday morning required a lie in and a leisurely breakfast, then we walked to Wilhelmina Falls. This is about a 6km return walk with the last few hundred metres being quite steep as the track climbs along the falls.

The falls had very little water flowing over but they are quite spectacular. We returned to camp and packed up and headed home around 2:00 pm. All up an enjoyable weekend, not too strenuous and with good company and in a pleasant location.

Participants: Claire Cassidy, Julie Parker, Brigitte Van Pee, Ron Cann, Jenny Cann

As agreed, we met outside the Jindivick store at 9.30am and then drove to the starting point of our walk; the home of Bonnie our co-leader. In keeping with a leisurely pace, we had a coffee and biscuit first and then headed off. It was overcast and threatening to rain, which pleased us all, given the current dryness.

We walked downhill for some time through private property finally coming to public land and a sign saying “Trespassers will be prosecuted or worse” (or was it horse ... it was hard to read!). What had David led us through! He assured us the owner was well known to him.

Our first stopping point was at the remains of an old weir on the Labertouche Creek. Some further walking and we found the entrance to the Labertouche Caves. Ron and Brigitte couldn’t resist a brief explore inside, and then we made our way (above ground!) to the exit, several hundred metres away. It was interesting to have at last visited the area after hearing about the caves over many years.

We walked back to a nearby cleared area, Piazza Labertouche, for our lunch. We shared the picnic

spot with a family of leeches, and some wisely applied their favoured repellent to ward them off.

After lunch we made our way back through the picturesque forest of tall trees, ferns etc, and via a number of barbed wire fences, to our cars. The heaviest of the rain was well timed, coming down as we reached the cars and Bonnie’s shed. We then drove to David’s home, with its superb view of forest and birdlife, for coffee and apple scroll.

So, if your midweek is threatening to be boring, consider joining us for the Tuesday walk next month.

We set off at 7:00am on Saturday and started walking at 10:00am with the temperature already rising, promising a hot walk along a wide dusty road. The Parks advice was to be self sufficient with water, so rather than carry all that weight on our backs we each packed 10 litres into day packs and loaded them onto a two wheeled trolley which had been designed to cart bricks. With the cart loaded and one or two pushing or pulling, depending on the gradient, we set off. A few minor adjustments were required but overall it worked quite well, holding it back on the downhill bits was probably the hardest. We even managed to drag it over the dunes and along the beach to the camp area. Some would say bloody mad, others might say inventive; being my idea I’II go with inventive!

Needless to say being so hot we were all weary by the time we reached the beach and a leisurely swim was the order, with some quiet resting and bickies and dip and plenty of water to drink. We gave away three litres to a couple of hikers who were a bit short due to the hot weather.

Sunday morning we had a slow start and set off at a steady pace retracing the previous day’s path, with a lot cooler day, a lot lighter load, which all made for a more pleasant walk back. We drank all of the water and no-one suffered any heatstroke etc so the water cart’s job was done. Thanks to Peter and Rob for giving me a hand with the pack horse work. All up a good weekend.

It was rather misty with a hint of rain when David, Denis, Phil, Ron and I met at the car park near the roundabout in Anderson. After a coffee, kindly supplied by Ron, and a short car shuffle we set off along the Bass Coast Rail Trail towards Kilcunda. This rail trail, which is the only coastal rail trail in Victoria, begins at the former Anderson Station area and finishes at the heritage listed Wonthaggi Railway Station, a total distance of 16 kms. Amid much conversation, we followed the trail through open farmland to the remnants of the Mitchell Mine Historic Reserve. After a closer inspection of the remains, we continued on to Kilcunda where we were to leave the trail.

By now the skies had cleared, the sun was out and the day was beginning to warm up. Just before the old trestle bridge in Kilcunda, we left the rail trail and headed onto the George Bass Coastal Walking Track to return to Punchbowl.

We found ourselves walking along a narrow winding path along cliff tops rising high above the pounding surf of Bass Strait. As there was no shade and the day was becoming quite hot the sea breeze was extremely welcoming. On one side of us was farmland, the other some spectacular panoramic views all the way to Cape Woolamai.

The George Bass Coastal Walk is 7km long and although grazing has occurred on this stretch of

coast for many years, remnants of native vegetation still cling stubbornly to the windswept cliff tops.

About half way along the walk, we headed down to the beach where we found a sheltered spot for lunch. Shoes and socks off, we kicked back and enjoyed our gourmet delights whilst listening to the sound of the surf as it crashed up against the rocky coastline.

After lunch, we headed along the beach for a short time before heading back up to the cliff tops to continue along the path to Punchbowl. After retrieving the cars, we drove to Kilcunda where we had coffee and some interesting conversation before heading off home.

Thanks to David for a very enjoyable walk; definitely nothing “boring” about it.

Thunderstorms were the morning alarm, mainly noise and promises of rain, but by the time we reached Meeniyan it was raining steadily. Every one arrived and a change of direction was agreed to, and we drove to Foster and started the ride from there with the wind and rain behind us.

The trail has a hard packed sand surface which makes for a fairly smooth ride. The rain eased off by the time we reached Fish Creek and our coffee stop. The Orange Roughy Café looked the goods as the name suited the look of the rather wet and sand sprayed riders. After some cappuccinos and sticky date puddings and a cake whose name eludes me, all served on plates the size of ten gallon hats and covering most of the plate, we trundled on to Meeniyan. This part of the trail had a few soft spots due to the rain but was quite sheltered from the wind being tree lined on both sides, as is the most of the section we rode.

We arrived at Meeniyan around 1:00 pm had lunch and did the return car shuffle, and headed home. All up a good day, and thanks to Tim O’C, Rob B, Rob H and Peter D for coming along.

The Wanganui, one of New Zealand’s most fascinating rivers, is steeped in history. It winds its way 329 kilometres from its source on the flanks of Mt Tongariro in the Central North Island to the Tasman Sea at the city of Wanganui. A major route for travel between the sea and the interior of the North Islands, it was used by the Maori people. Eventually the route was superseded by road and rail. Today it is a popular thoroughfare for canoeists and kayakers alike.

We decided to explore 89 kms of this amazing river through one of New Zealand’s great wilderness areas, Wanganui National Park. Camping areas are very limited as the river winds its way through deep gorge country. The camps are situated high above the river amongst the thick forest. Occasionally there is evidence of introduced trees along the banks planted in days gone by when small settlements were prevalent. There are still traces of Maori settlements along the river.

One of the highlights of the Wanganui journey is the “Bridge to Nowhere” – 57 kms from Whakahoro where we started our trip. The Mangapurna Landing was the main access by paddle steamer to the Mangapurna Valley during the early years of settlement. The valley was a rehabilitation settlement where land was offered to soldiers following World War I. This historic concrete bridge was completed in the 1930’s and now stands abandoned in bush in the middle of “nowhere”.

The land surrounding the river is made up of soft sandstone and mudstone which has been eroded to form the deep gorges, and their cliffs and waterfalls. Bird life is plentiful. Our pick up point was at Pipiriki which is a scenic and historic area, followed by a hair-raising trip back to Ohakune. I claimed car sickness so the drive back was a little slower than normal!

The following morning we set off to explore Lake Waikeremoana set in the Urewera National Park – a lovely remote area, very suitable for a 5 day kayaking trip … another time. It is also well set up for bushwalking with good tracks, huts and shelters.

The park protects part of the largest untouched native forest area in the North Island, with plenty of bird, trout and other wildlife.

After a couple of days at Lake Waikeremoana we caught the ferry to the South Island. Picton is a pretty little port at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. We had planned to sea kayak In Marlborough Sound, and as the weather was perfect, we did just that. This area is a mecca for sea kayakers.

Before flying out of Christchurch it was decided to have a look at Arthur’s pass, a popular area for climbers and trampers; an area we knew well. In winter, skiing is very popular at Temple Basin. Many of the peaks are over 2000 m, the Bealy Face of Mt Rolleston being the most spectacular from the “Pass”.

We had a quick trip with a variety of activities - New Zealand is a country with magnificent scenery, clean air and friendly people. The “Wanganui” is an incredible journey, and well worth another visit.

Participants: Rangers Andy and George, Bill and Marion, and from SBC: John Sunderland, Denis Nagle (President of FoBB) , Wayne Burge, Tim Clarke and Graham Bolton. Three Venturer scouts turned up at 11am on Sunday and helped.

This trip was a late notice one but when Wayne rang I found I was encouraged to go. (Our twin boys are seven months old and fairly well settled now.)

Andy sent us, Wayne, Denis and new member Tim on to camp at the Rock Shelter. John Sunderland and the others camped at Mt St Gwinear and they worked on the Yellow Pole Line.

Andy Gilham is a hard taskmaster. There were three hedge trimmers, a chainsaw and pitchforks for throwing off. On Saturday we put in a solid six hours on the AAWT towards Mt Talbot before returning to camp.

The rain, glorious rain started after lunch. People went looking for their parkas. (Fancy not carrying your rain jacket with you in the mountains.) Still it was a drought.

Tim was a source of some interest. “Try a moonshine fig” he said, “or some dried apple, they’re home grown.” This kicked off a good conversation, but you had to be there.

On Saturday evening we ate tea sheltering in Tim’s spacious homemade pyramid tent. It has a mesh floor; an interesting design feature.

The rain continued all night, with heavy showers. Wayne’s new tent was tested and passed. We sat there listening to the drips on the flysheet… “ just like a Tassie trip without the airfares”, he said.

On Sunday we continued clearing in the rain until 11am, turnaround time. We had managed to clear a few kilometres from the Rock Shelter back towards Mt Erica, most of the way to Mt Talbot. Andy told us that it was last cleared about 17 years ago.

The rain continued with a really heavy drenching for the walk out. We became quite wet.

There is always more work than we can manage in the time. Why not come along next time; it’s good fun.

Participants: Cathy Almond, Richard McNeil, Fran Miller, Denis Nagle and Tim O'Connell.

The wind blasted our tents all through the night, but a bomb wouldn't have woken us. When I did wake I thought all were still asleep, but a check of the kitchen shelter revealed two were already having their first cup of tea and our South American friends were almost ready to head off. It was with some bemusement that I viewed the warning sign over the tap on the water tank. This near new shelter and plastic tank is on a coast line that predominantly gets it's rain straight off the Southern Ocean, but the advice was to boil the water before drinking it.

Breakfast was a bit fiery. I tried to make toast on the trangia but the tea tree I used as a toaster burnt first and the toast tasted like metho (see Photo).

We set off down the track enthusiastically, a bit too much for some, they started going the wrong way, a quick dash after them and all were back on the right path. Rolling hills of open grassland stretched out in front, the track contouring around the valley. Down below a large mob of grey kangaroos lay in the morning sun. The steady rise is matched only by an ever increasing distance from the coast. Not far along the paddocks give way to forested hill tops of mixed eucalypts. We stopped for a break to admire the views; a Rufus fantail darted about in an acacia above our heads and a group of joggers out for a morning run passed by. The track took a turn past a number of small houses; the strangest one, we stopped to investigate. It looked like a cross between a spaceship and a water tank. Further down the road we met one of the locals, he offered us free water then tried to sell us some dodgy postcards. We got a photo of him, just in case, to show the cops (see this is him!).

The weather started doing strange things too. One minute we were donning our rain coats, the next it was blazing sunshine. We came across a group of native wild cherry trees (ballarts), but these didn't have the familiar red fruit, instead a pale pinkish white ( I later learnt that these were in fact a different species Exocarpos strictus, Pale Fruit Ballart).

At one point the track passed through private land; a large gate prevents vehicles from entering, except for those with a key. Gradually the bush took on that familiar coastal look again, large Banksia forming the understorey and down near the beach the Kangaroo apples were laden with fruit. I don't think they will be the latest taste sensation. Speaking of food, it was time for lunch and what better place for a picnic and a snooze, Milanesia beach. A stone hut is snugly located just up a narrow little valley at the back of the beach.(more about this later)

We crossed the beach easily. Unlike the previous day, this wasn't as far nor was the sand as soft. We took some time to examine the rock formations in the cliff face. Large rounded iron red nodules protruded from the lighter grey sandstone. At first I thought it was a form of conglomerate. But why/how were these large stones deposited this way. Then it was noted that they all occurred on one of the many cracks that were randomly criss-crossing the formation. My theory is: that they actually 'grew' in the rock. Iron minerals were transported by water in the cracks over thousands of years, maybe more, and somehow they formed, maybe causing the cracks to increase as more deposition occurred (a bit like the rusting of reo in concrete, that causes cracking of foundations and walls). The sea then eroded the cliff, exposing the nodules, which are harder than the surrounding rock, causing the protrusions etc.

All this wasn't helping us get to our destination. Claire and Fran started to put the pace on, so much so that at one time they were tiny little dots in the distance. I noted this as I munched on the largest blackberries I'd ever seen. The track went on and on, (a bit like this trip report), up and down and through some more interesting rock formations, but there was no time to stop, we had to “keep going”. At last I thought 'Are we there yet!' . High up on the point we thought we could see the camp site, then the track started going in a different direction up this flamin gully. I started thinking maybe I had been wrong, that it must have been something else I saw. All of a sudden there was this huge set of stairs, straight up. Well it wasn't what one would expect, and these were no ordinary steps. They were a work of art, with twists and turns and at the top a little seat to have a nice rest. Just when you thought that was it, we must be nearly there now, we had to go up and down another bloody gully. Finally we got to Ryan Den Camp, not as knackered as the day before but glad to be finished all the same. Only problem for Richard was it was my turn to cook dinner.

Yes, you guessed it, “That's yer bloomin lot, but only for this month.” To be continued next month.

Participants: Cathy Almond, Richard McNeil, Fran Miller, Denis Nagle and Tim O'Connell.

Sharing equipment i.e. tent and stove etc, make the weight of packs a lot less when on an overnight or extended trip. Likewise taking it in turns to cook the evening meal also lightens the load and adds that element of mystery to what you get for dinner. In Richard's case I don't think he had ever eaten Vege-Mince or Shitake mushrooms before, but after a hesitant test, he said it wasn't too bad. Stomachs full we adjourned to the hilltop overlooking Ryan Den to watch the last changing light of the day.

Before retiring though I did a spot of washing, as I was getting a bit low on clean essentials, but where to hang them? The railing on the ramp up to the toilet had a strand of wire. Just the right spot.

The early morning sound of hurried footsteps was followed not long after by that of another's. I had woken with an urgent need to get to the loo. Ten minutes later Richard had the same urgency. He said “I don't know what they put in that mince, but it sure gets you moving”. By now everyone else was up. Then I remembered my washing was still on display, and this I hurriedly stowed away.

Breakfast was to be our last meal together, as it had been decided that Fran and Cathy were going to continue walking on to Moonlight Head and Wreck Beach, while the rest of us were going to walk back the way we had come, then up Ryan Den track to the Great Ocean Road and to Wattle Hill to retrieve a car.

The first part of the walk was hard with plenty of steep ups and downs through coastal tea tree with intermittent sea views. Ten minutes into the walk, we met Donald ...? who is working on an interpretive booklet for the GOW (Great Ocean Walk). He explained the history behind the stone hut at Milanesia Beach – It was built in memory of the landowner’s son who was killed at Galipoli when only twenty years old. The booklet should be out in July, and would be worth buying.

After leaving the coast, there was a long road walk inland because the farmer there won't allow access through his property. The rest of the walk to Wreck Beach and Gable Lookout was pretty boring along Moonlight Head Road. Gable Lookout is worth a visit and Wreck Beach is interesting for its two anchors embedded in the rock pools. However, no information on the history of the anchors is provided.

We had a leisurely walk back towards the car, picking blackberries on the side of the road, and then gratefully accepted a lift from a German tourist for the last few kilometres. Wouldn't recommend the walk from Moonlight Head to Devils Kitchen, because apart from Wreck Beach, it is all road walking.

Meanwhile Claire, Richard, Tim and I retraced our steps, this time down the set of stairs, numbering 116, according to Claire who counted them. At a track that crossed the GOW track, one way leading to Ryan Den beach. We took the other to the main road. Not far along we came to a vehicle where a young lad and his dad had camped the night and were preparing to head down to the beach for some more fishing. The track continued up through thick vegetation for about two kms then opened out to farmland and views back to the coast. We reached the road and left our packs and walked the four or five kms to the car, returning to collect the gear. As we were loading up, the Park Rangers arrived; they were going to drive in to do some maintenance of the camping ground. We chatted to them for a while then drove to Lavers Hill for coffees and cakes. On to Aire River again to collect Tim’s car and then the long drive home.

Thanks to all for a wonderful trip and hope to do other sections of the GOW in the future. This ends what has to be one of the longest trip reports in the history of this Club? I think only Maurice Poulton may have given what seemed a longer, verbal one, at a club night once. THE END.

P.S. Just a bit more, on that rock formation at Milanesia beach, (as mentioned in the March Newsletter). Cathy Almond sent a copy of the photos to her brother who is a geophysicist. He and his work colleagues discussed the photos and came up with two possible theories, one almost the same as I had suggested. I have also come across a reference to the formation in the book 'Walking the Otways'- edited by Kaye Potter. It states that the formation is known as Cannon Balls. (If anyone knows anything more about this I'd be interested to hear for them?)

P.P.S. Coincidentally I also recently learnt that Kaye Potter is the daughter of Maurice and Shirley Poulton.

Friday 7^th Nov, Dave Plozza and Martin Gwynne loaded up the car and drove off to Tamboon Inlet (the mouth of the Cann River – Ron’s River!). We arrived at our destination about 11:30 Friday evening after having had dinner at Bairnsdale (George’s hamburger with the lot), tired and in need of a quiet drink we set up tent and surveyed the water under torch light. The next morning we woke to a magnificent day, quite a contrast from the last week of rain, hail and snow. Kayaks launched, life jackets on, we paddled to the ocean, which is about a 5km paddle across Tamboon Inlet.

Fish were swimming everywhere, but not one would say hello to my fishing rod, hmmm sandwiches for lunch that day, no fresh fish.

Back to camp at about 2:00pm, we were a little tired and hungry (sangers were fine), we headed off up the river to find a new camp site to start the next day off to paddle up the river as far as we could. Several hours later we did find a very good camp site, so went back to the car and packed up everything, including the kayaks, and drove around to a different car park, slightly closer to home and closer to the camp site we had chosen.

Kayaks back in the water, car parked and gear stowed as best as we could (you can fit so much in a kayak), we slowly and carefully paddled to campsite No.2.

Now this is a campsite accessible only by 4WD and currently being reconstructed. We had a picnic table carved out of a tree complete with seating for four people. A state of the art swing aside hot plate over a steel and concrete constructed fireplace, just the ticket for cooking another of my now rather old hat lamb roasts complete with potatoes and fresh broccoli.

A glass or of red wine and a cup of billy tea it was time to go to bed again. The next day was even hotter and I awoke to find myself a bit de-hydrated, sun burnt, searing heat from the sun and oops rather hung over. My shins which were not protected from the suns damaging rays had suffered the worst sunburn ever I have had, ouch. I did slip, slop, slap but not the legs, not very sun smart that one I can tell you.

We had our coffee, muesli and packed some water for the days paddling up stream as far as we could go. Not having any real idea of how far we could actually go, I was not sure how long it would take us. As it turned out we paddled for about 1.5 hrs (about 5-8 km), this is a must go and see one day venue for everyone.

Sea eagles, water dragons, Skip-jack Taylor, flathead, bream and trout were some of the wild life we saw while we were paddling up the river, and in very large quantities. This would have to be one of the most beautiful places I have been to visit, dark deep holes followed by shallow sandy stretches. Well I was so totally impressed by the beauty of this place I must come back again one day, and again. We spent more time than I originally had planned on doing but it was worth it getting back home late. After getting back to the campsite we packed up all of our gear again and made the final paddle back to the car, sorry to see the last of this place. Again we had one last swim to rinse off the sweat we worked up during the days paddling (probably only to replace it with salty water though we felt better), clean clothes on and the next destination was to get a real coffee and food. The food was a bit disappointing in Cann River, but we were a bit lazy as we really only needed to buy four pieces of bread and make our own sangers. But, well, we were back in civilisation, why not support the local food shop. Bairnsdale once again proved to be a food highlight at George’s hamburger shop (no chips this time). Back home just before dark and two very happy dogs to greet me - can we go for a walk now????????? Woof.

Cup Weekend Walk 2006

With much anticipation and a slight feeling of unease at not knowing what lay ahead our small party ventured out on what leader Jack described as the ‘walk of a lifetime’.

After not having carried a pack for a few months and having a dodgy ankle I was surprised at how well I was walking. After a pleasant hour or so of walking across the cobbler plateau we dropped packs, always a relief, to do a side trip to Cobbler. The first of the peaks we would bag on the walk, Cobbler is a beautiful mountain. It stands aloof looking out over the King River valley, home of many renowned wineries. But there wasn’t a winery to be seen as we gazed at the view. It was like standing on the roof of Victoria as we could see most of the well known and loved peaks of the high country and a large part of the north of the state.

After a few lessons in taking timed shots with digital cameras we ambled back down to where the packs were. After a further hour or so we reached the shore of Lake Cobbler and had a very enjoyable lunch stop. I went to have a look at Dandongadale falls, reputed to be Victoria’s highest, but there was barely a trickle going over the falls. It would be an astounding sight to see them in full flow.

I was beginning to wonder if our leader had gone soft in his old age, after all he’s nearly 50!!! It was unheard of for a Jack walk, to be able to amble along without packs and to have such a delightful lunch stop. The rest of the afternoon sounded like a walk through the park with a drop down to the Catherine River. It turned out to be a rocky and scrubby scramble down a steep spur, and it took us most of the rest of the day to reach a suitable campsite. But what a spot! I immediately immersed my weary body into the river for a soak and lay around for an hour enjoying the water. Almost a top ten campsite, and the resident deer didn’t like us encroaching on his territory as he called out during the night.

The next day dawned bright and clear and an early start was recommended to beat the heat: we had a big climb out to the Razor. Filling all our water bottles, the pack felt heavy and the climb began in earnest. This was a real Jack walk. Off track with a steep climb and no water at the top!!!!!

As the climb began it got steeper and scrubbier, and when the sun came out it was a bit on the warm side. We could see the top of the Razor but it still looked a long way from us after two hours of slogging up the hill. And as we got closer to the Razor the slope got steeper and it didn’t look very exciting having to scramble through a cliff line to get to the top. But eventually we did make the top and it was a great relief to be able to drop the pack and sit in the shade. We clambered out to the summit and admired the views and looked down on where we had come from. Why did we ever leave the beautiful river?

It was a rare treat to be able to sit down at 2 in the afternoon and know that I could relax for the rest of the day. Unheard of before!

On Monday we wandered off the Razor and once again dropped packs for a wander out to the Viking. There were quite a few walkers coming through on their way back and one guy offered to give us the GPS co-ordinates for water he found not far from Viking Saddle. Now Viking Saddle is a lovely campsite and whilst I’ve walked through it a number of times I’ve never camped there, so must do that one-day. A short scramble up to the top of the Viking rewarded us with glimpses of the Razor and the dry Barry range. It would be a challenge to carry a pack up the Viking and then head off over the Barry range for a few days. Must do that one-day too.

Back to the packs and initially the walking was easy across large rocky slabs just below the top of the Razor escarpment. Losing the track for a while we eventually found it again and managed to have lunch in a shady spot. Further along there are some magnificent campsites with views to die for, but no water. One day I must carry water in and camp there.

As we ambled along the forest was beautiful and the alpine ash was untouched! Reaching Catherine saddle we decided to camp for the night. There was a guy on his own and he said he had found water 80 meters down. So off we went full of excitement that we could get some much need water after two days of carrying it. We all plunged down into the gully and thought the water can’t be far away. But down we went and still no sign of it. Down even further over long dead trees and still no sign of water. Bugger, perhaps he meant down the road.

Wayne and I climbed out steeply back to the road and within a minute had found a beautiful supply of the best tasting water I have ever had. Silly bastards should have asked him if he meant the road or the gully. We drank till we were bursting and filled everything we had to the brim. Had enough water to have a bath in!

After a very pleasant night around a campfire we retired happy and content knowing the rest of the walk was easy.

The last day and we packed up for a wander to Mt Speculation. The AWT climbs steeply away from Catherine saddle and we didn’t like the thought that much, so we took the easier way along the old logging road. Picking up some water at Camp Creek we climbed up to the top of Speculation only to be blown off by strong winds and heavy mist. It would have been a hard slog across the Crosscut Saw back to Macalister springs. We thought of the people we saw yesterday and wondered if they were enjoying the walk in the blizzard like conditions.

We headed off to Mt Koonika and had an enjoyable walk across the ridge top. Reaching Koonika in bright sun we sat and admired the views as we had our last lunch for the walk. We were looking forward to our return but also lamenting the end of a few days in the Alps. After all, a bad day in the bush is better than a good day at work.

The end of the walk came too soon and we made our way down to the King River for a dip to wash away the sweat from the last few days. When I got home I took my shirt out of the pack. Boy, did I smell that bad!

Thanks to Jack De Vries for leading and to Tim Loffler, Wayne Burge and Dave Plozza for making a wonderful walk.

Participants: 21 walkers, 14 from Ben Cruachan (incl Co leader Jim Stranger and 5 visitors) and Denis Nagle(co leader), Lucy Thorpe, Tim Lofler, Ron Cann, Claire Cassidy, Julie Parker and Fran Miller.

The two groups met at 9.00 at Wirilda Environment Park Education center and piled into 5 vehicles to drive to the start of the walk at Moondarra Reservoir.

We started walking about 10.00.with one leader at the front and the other at the rear, communicating on 2 way radios. The track was flatish and easy for a while but soon headed straight up, and after a short walk on the ridge, joined into one of the many 4 wheel drive tracks traversing the Boola State Forest. Our climb gave us a view of the delightful Loy Yang Power station but we tore ourselves away and headed straight back down the other side of the hill. The bush was dotted with wild flowers and many mini grass-tree flowers (xanthorrhoea minor?) which were lovely.

Lunch was eaten beside the Tyers River which flowed over another 4 wheel drive track, fortunate because the trail bike rider who roared down the track turned around when he saw the water - or us? We headed off up W3 track about 1.00 pm and came across the old lime kiln and some apple trees near the rock face where brave people go abseiling.

After leaving the W3 track we headed down to the Tyers River. At times this was very slow going because of trees across the track, but other parts had already been cleared by Denis and Jim. We came across relics of the water pipe, which was originally made of 2 layers of wood and bound with wire.

Lots of lush bright green ferns in this area, and a view of Petersons Lookout high on the opposite side of the bank. I missed seeing the peregrine falcons nest, but Denis told us they had been nesting there for about 20 years. Saw an echidna though.

All in all it was a good walk, the track was rough and steep at times, but it was nice to meet the Ben Cruachan walkers and see the bush regenerating from the fires. Thank you to Denis and Jim for clearing the track and leading the walk.

Participants: Richard McNeil, Tim Clarke (TC), Denis Nagle and Tim O’Connell (TOC)

Inclement weather was forecast with strong winds, rain, hail and snow showers above 800mts, but at the Mitchell River National Park, some 25 kms east of Stratford, we experienced barely a drop. In a sheltered valley, cool conditions prevailed, perfect for bushwalking.

With military precision we arrived within minutes of each other at the designated meeting point, the Den of Nargun car park. Even so we still managed to whip up a cup of tea and a snack before a car was left here and we drove to our starting point at Angusvale.

We elected to walk the km or so to Rock Creek, this had been driven when we last did this walk as a one day reccy in May. Since then a number of changes had occurred, willows have been removed along the river and the track has recently been graded. A quick scan of the cliff face on the opposite bank revealed a goat standing high up on a rock ledge. It took some time though for all to finally see it.

The track is very well formed and sign posted. Following the river, it undulates in and around adjoining gullies and ridges. Constant changes in vegetation and views to the river valley make for very interesting scenery.

With only a few short hills here and there, we made good progress; so much so that our leader thought we should just keep going without a break. It wasn’t long though, before jokes about Claire’s leadership style were being made. I think she knew from the outset that she was in for it, as it was four males to one female.

Our lunch stop was finally reached at a point on the track where an unmarked intersection leads to a possible campsite on the river.

Attention was soon drawn to the quantity and types of food emanating from TC’s and my pack. We had arranged to share equipment such as tent, stove and food. So this meant there was more room for food not normally carried on an overnight walk, like fresh salads, bread, sauces and jams, all of which were home made or grown by TC.

Suitably fed and rested we set off again. After an extended climb we reached a road well above the river, with extensive views in both directions. Varied conversations passed the time and the occasional stop! (after much teasing of the leader). We left the road and walked the last section to a spectacular rock cliff formation called the Amphitheatre (how some of these remain standing is amazing).

We sat and enjoyed the views for some time from the lookout, just 50 metres away we reached the camp site. To our surprise but more to theirs we invaded the camp of fellow walkers from the Peninsular Bushwalking Club. We invited ourselves in around their fire and again TC’s food and cooking skills were a source of amazement and entertainment to a new set of onlookers. We chatted about our clubs and found much in common. I passed around a copy of our latest newsletter which was of great interest. Late into the night we sat around the fire then walked to the lookout again, under a starlit sky we listened to the sound of the river far below. Except for the marauding of possums, sleep came swiftly and soundly.

Early risers were about and the fire was rekindled, breakfast was at a very casual pace, we farewelled our friends from the peninsular. We broke camp and set off on the dot of ten o’clock just as the boss (nicknamed the Nargun) ordered. The wind had gone and clear skies were the order of the day. Again the track followed the river with access to the water at one or two points. The temptation for a swim was overwhelming, but our leader was not having a bar of it, again the jokes were in good form but by now we were getting just as much back.

We met another road that descended into a gully, here we passed through lush rainforest and along the river the giant Kanooka or Water Gums (Tristania laurina) clung to the rock with a network of twisted roots capable of withstanding the torrents of water when the river is in flood.

The biggest test of Claire’s leadership came at a point where the track divided, no signs or indication was evident on the map and we were not being very helpful leaving it up to her to choose. A few minutes latter we burst out onto a clearing and discovered that we could have taken either track. But this looked like the perfect spot for our riparian repast (lunch by the river) and that long awaited swim.

Another sumptuous feast over, we walked the last short but very steep bit up to the carpark. Here we jettisoned our heavy burdens and felt like we were floating. We walked to Bluff Lookout, then down to the river again, enjoying more boyish behaviour rock jumping across the river then into Deadcock Den (a name that evoked all sorts of unrepeatable comments) and finally to the Den of Nargun. All fantastic features and recommended to visit.

A drive back to pick up the other car, then home. Fantastic weekend, fantastic company, fantastic place and all the more due to fantastic leadership. Well done Claire and thanks from all of us.

Collins Siding to Tyers Junction

Participants: Tim O’Connell, Denis Nagle, Richard McNeil, Ron Cann, Jenny Cann

Our group met at the Caringal Scout Camp near Tyers Junction in surprisingly calm conditions and pleasant temperatures, after the gale force winds of preceding days.

All seemed happy with a slow start; coffee and doughnuts first and then a short drive in one of the cars to Collins Siding, where we commenced the 11km walk along the Tyers Junction Rail Trail.

The rail trail follows a tramway which was laid in 1925 to provide more reliable transport for sawn timber from the timber mills in the area, to the Collins Siding on the Moe-Walhalla railway.

The trail, which headed off to the left after a brief walk along the Walhalla Road towards Erica, was well signed and easy walking. We passed through forests of tall trees with ferns, numerous wildflowers, creeks, sounds of a variety of birds and evidence of fires from the previous summer; new green growth against blackened remains.

The lunch stop was a conveniently placed log beside the track where we discovered a few of the many leeches promised for the following days walk.

Mid afternoon we arrived back at Tyers Junction, and some of us found time for a coffee “debrief” in Moe; a relaxing and enjoyable walk with good company. Thanks to Claire for her leadership and excellent planning.

Round the Bay in a Day

The mobile phone alarm woke my son, Angus and I from a very unsatisfactory sleep at the YHA in Melb. My lack of preparedness for this event weighed heavily on my mind and contributed to the sense of butterflies in the stomach.

And like a swarm of bees, thousands of cyclists were drawn to the hive that was the starting point at Docklands. Instinct seemed to direct them to where they needed to go, then at 6am the moment of truth had arrived, pushed along by the crowd, hundreds at a time we set off. In no time we were divided into those heading over the Westgate and us who were to go down the eastside of the bay.

An hour into the ride the body had still not got over the rude awakening and it seemed it was not until the next that I finally relaxed and got into some state of a rhythm.

After a testing hill that sorted out many, I felt a breakthrough had been achieved. We cranked up the pace a bit, even staying with a pack of faster riders for a time, then another. The long hill at Dromana was gruelling but again, by choosing a fellow cyclist to set the pace, we were finally gliding down the other side and the planned arrival time at Sorrento was look’n good.

With a good rest and lunch we were soon on the ferry to Queenscliff and we set off confidently to Geelong. Strong headwinds though hampered our progress and a few extra rest breaks were required. We finally arrived in Geelong and needed more rest and an extra intake of water.

The section to Little River was done in good time but the effects of 7 hours on a bike and the prospects of around 70 ks to go started to throw doubts in the mind as to our ability to make the distance. As each section was completed, the nearer the finish line loomed, the more resolve we got. But we were sorely tested, almost to breaking point and were tempted twice to accept the offers to be picked up by the sag wagon. As the daylight was beginning to fade the final section couldn’t come quick enough. Then with 10 ks to go, somehow we lost the other riders and made a wrong turn. Almost in despair we were shown by some kind people how to find our way back to the road we needed. We caught up to the others and finally to applause of a few well wishers rode over the finish line 13 hrs after we had started.

This event is a fund raiser for the Smith Family and is well organised by Bicycle Victoria. If you would like to sponsor our efforts then give me a call on 5127 1525. Thanks,

(Congratulations Denis and Angus – wonderful effort. A worthy achievement to sponsor!)

Rae, Henk, Dan, John and Kath had a great time doing part of the new Otways Great Ocean Walk, covering about 40 km of the 91 km walk announced recently in the press. Rae and John Gilcrist have done this walk before, but there were some surprises.

On Friday evening we arrived at Marengo camping ground, a very popular place in holiday season, and had an indulgent last supper (for a while) at the Apollo Bay Hotel before shifting a car to Aire River. We were lulled to sleep by the waves in our tents on the grassy sites next to the sea.

Saturday, before we set off, Henk used his spring scales to test pack weights which varied from 28 pounds (12.7 kg) including one litre of water to 50 (22.7kg) including 3 litres. At Marengo there were signs for new tracks for the Great Ocean Walk but we enjoyed an interesting low tide walk of 4 or 5 km of fascinating rocky shelves around to Shelly beach before going inland.

Up the steep Elliott River track, we stopped for lunch at a newly developed camp site with fancy bush toilets, a water tank and square low table/benches- good for sitting on, good for cooking on. New numbered and designated camp sites for groups and individuals (which we found out later should be booked) were there and at other places along the way.

It was a quite warm afternoon of walking along bushy inland tracks to Blanket Bay, mostly restricted 4WD tracks. The total for the day was somewhere between 14 and 18 km. First priority there- a swim in the bay!

We set up on the grass set aside for backpackers, and swam, ate, rested and chatted to others. Dan tried a bit of fishing. If we had stayed long enough he would have caught something worth eating as he upsized his bait!

The Blanket Bay “Volunteer Ranger” came to chat and say that tomorrow was a Fire Ban day. We asked for some printed info on the new walk and/or camping areas but what we got was out of date.

Sunday was predicted 40^oC+, (known before we left home). If it was not for the fact that we would be next to the sea, this prediction would have resulted in a cancelled walk. It was hot on the rocky shelves, but we were able to dip in cool rock pools as we went around the coast with some exciting rock scrambles requiring pack passing at times. The sea was remarkably quiet. There is now a headland track as part of the new walk, but we found fun and interest on the rocks at low tide.

We followed our plan to lunch and remain at Parker Bay until the weather change came. So we spent 3 or 4 hours dipping in the sea and the river, resting, fighting off sticky flies, under shady rocky overhangs until thunderstorms hit about 4 pm.

The skies emptied spasmodically as we pushed on to the Cape Otway lighthouse, partly by coast and later on the headland. Sadly we were too late for the much anticipated fresh coffee (or icy pole) as the shop was, by then, shut. We had been advised that there was another new bush camping spot near there. Possibly we were among the first to use this very new facility with a roofed camp “kitchen” with table, seats and some walls and a separate toilet facility. On water tanks attached to the shelters the signs advised “don’t drink rainwater”. A little bemused by this, we did, but we noticed a little taste- maybe the taste was from the very new roof? None of us got sick or died.

More numbered sites and another low table/bench which Dan found suitable for sleeping on the diagonal. Sleep was disturbed now and then by the raucous growl of koalas which were plentiful on our last 5 km. There was not a lot of rain but it was much cooler and a beautiful sunset. We did see a snake now and then as we walked over three days.

Monday was back to perfect weather. A few minutes along we looked at the tiny cemetery full of sad history- drowned sailors, lighthouse keeper’s children. A couple of km on a dune track, then we dropped packs to go down to Station Beach and a km back to the Rainbow Falls where there was plentiful spring water. We chose to stay on the headland rather than sand walking and enjoyed spectacular views as we followed well marked tracks to Aire River. The river had not breached for a while into the sea and water was well banked up to the bridge about a km inland. Dan was happy to find his car safe and sound in the camping ground there. We swam and ate lunch and piled into the one vehicle back to Marengo, collected Henk’s car, and to Apollo Bay for the mandatory café latte before setting off back home, arriving at Warragul about 8 pm.

There is a plethora of signs on the Great Ocean Road stating that in Australia cars are driven on the LEFT side of the road.

Participants: Brooke Miller, Denis Nagle, Lucy Thorpe, Claire Cassidy, Jacqueline Davies, Wolfe Gohler.

Hi everybody and a Happy New Year to you all. This begins the first stage of my first walk this year and what a great date, Friday 13th.

The meeting time was to be around 6.30pm in Omeo, though Claire and I decided we would arrive early, find a room, have an afternoon siesta or just get settled, as the key was to be left under the mat, outside the house behind the Catholic Church. Guess what? Under the mat revealed No key! It was around 4.30pm in the afternoon when soon Harvey, Lynette and Brooke arrived with the same idea. With some quick thinking, a phone call was made and the key soon arrived. The proprietor had just returned from her first trip to Phillip Island. With sunburnt cheeks it was revealed we were going to be staying in the old Convent and sleeping in what used to be the Nuns cells, interesting thought! Friday 13th, Convent and Nuns cells. Harvey you couldn’t have set the scene better.

The house was very tidy and well maintained. After picking rooms and getting settled, Claire myself and Lucy headed out on foot (which means it wasn’t very far, just up the road from the Church, on the corner, big place) to the pub to eat, which had been recommended. The reason for the step by step direction will become clear.

The pleasant odor on entering the pub left a lot to be desired. Ordering a jug of water, extreme difficulty, I think we were the equivalent of city slickers to them, ending up having to purchase a bottle of water just to be understood. No flies on these country folk.

Dinner was a whole new experience. Run by Asians offering Asian or Australian meals. Claire, Lucy and my self felt pretty safe ordering Asian food. A good feed before a good walk or so we thought. An insignificant amount of food was served, for the price paid, at sub zero standards. Anemic prawns resembling the texture of Clark rubber & vegetables about to leave the plate in disgust. Denis arrived in time to finish the left over, poor Denis! Harvey, Lynette & Brooke arrived in time to learn a valid lesson off us on what not to order & played it safe or so they thought & chose the Australian Cuisine, but to no avail. With Wolfe also having a bad experience we all admitted defeat & took our hungry tummies back to the convent for coffee, chocy & a chat before retiring for the evening.

With a fairly early start awaiting us the next day, we hoped for a good night sleep but some of us were not blessed with that good fortune, as the convent gave out creeks & shivers & not to mention the odd snore. A few of us believed we were not alone, which was appropriate, considering it was Friday 13^th, maybe those Nuns cells could tell a story or two.

Red eyed & yawning & that’s not bright eyed & bushy tailed, we rose, showered & breakfasted, said our good-bye to the Convent & its inhabitants around 8.30am, as we headed to Mount Hotham. With a shuffle of cars to Harrietville, the rest of us had time to investigate Diamantina Hut & chat to other walkers setting out to Mount Feathertop.

Sounds of footsteps in the hallway and morning salutations were greeted with groans from some who complained that certain people (who will remain nameless) kept them awake all night with their snoring.

After a healthy breakfast we hit the road to Mt Hotham, four cars in convoy. Two were then left at the Ski Village carpark then on to Diamantina Hut, the starting point for the walk. The car shuttle to Harrietville proved longer than anticipated.

We finally set off just before midday, and by now the sun’s heat was burning off what little cloud cover there had been. The sticky little flies were atrocious, not only getting into the eyes but occasionally getting sucked down ones nose or mouth. (next time, the must-have fashion statement will be one of those fishnet hat covers).

The track across the Razorback is clearly marked, and not far into the walk a choice confronted us: a harder walk of the over the top, or an easier walk round the contour, We accepted without a seconds deliberation to go with the latter. The two tracks met up again in a saddle and we took a well earned rest. A steep climb out was encountered this combined with the heat, lack of any breeze, humidity and heavy packs, tested all our already challenged resolve. Many a stop and frequent intakes of water were required. The one compensation to this were the magnificent views all around us. At this stage, one of our group began to feel unwell, and wisely as it turned out, decided to return to the vehicles.

The regeneration following the 2003 bushfires is evident, multiple trunks of new green foliage are sprouting from the silvery skeletons of the old snowgums and the profusion of purple, yellow and white alpine wildflowers studded the landscape.

We stopped again in the next saddle for a late lunch and found what shade we could. Lucy, taking after her father produced a gourmet selection of fillings to have in rolls of mountain bread. Fed, rested and bandaged (blisters were beginning to make their presence felt) we pushed on again. The hot westerly afternoon sun beating down on us, but again we took advantage of lots of rest stops and the topping up of fluids.

At last the unmistakable outline of Mt Feathertop loomed up in front of us and revived our sagging spirits as we knew we didn't have far to go. When we finally reached the track junction to the summit, we rested, and then almost ran the last 500 metres down to the camp-site near the newly constructed Federation Hut.

It was near on 5pm when we arrived, and camp-sites were at a premium. 20+ hikers had already set up and more were arriving all the time. We selected our spot and proceeded to erect our tents. That done, cups of tea and dinner were the next priorities in that order. Where lunch had been sumptuous, dinner consisted of packet soups, pasta and pesto sauce (Someone had left the parmesan cheese and port in the car). Not to worry, supper was still to come but not before we gathered ourselves for the walk to the top of Mt Feathertop to see the sunset and the moon rise.

The stone work on the track to the summit is a work of art, rock upon rock painstakingly placed in situ. Here and there a water drain made from one large stone, some of them over a meter and a half in length, spanned the width of the track. In the dimming light, distant views of the Ovens and Kiewa Valleys stretched out below us. The fiery red sunset didn't disappoint and was followed by the arrival of the fullest harvest moon. We sat on the second highest mountain in Victoria eating dark chocolate, drinking Chai latte, and shared sparklers with passing hikers. The cool night air was filled with insects some dinner for the bats that fluttered about our heads. The moon rose higher and we made our way down to our camp for further moon viewing and more cheese, chocolate and liqueur.(We think well-deserved after our long day)

The new Federation Hut is excellent, but is to be used for emergency shelter only. It has a water tank with clean drinking water and a composting toilet is nearby. The Parks ranger and two volunteer track rangers were there doing routine maintenance.

Sunday

Around 6.30am bodies started to emerge from their tents, looking and feeling glamorous as one does after wearily crawling into them the night before. After breakfast and some medical attention to blisters and sunburn, we packed up camp, donned our packs and were ready to leave five minutes ahead of schedule. After one last look at the spectacular views from Federation Hut, we headed off on the ten and a half kilometre walk, all downhill, into Harrietville, a picturesque town at the base of Mt Hotham. At first, we walked through a lot of dead timber that had an eerie, ghostly appearance. It was encouraging to see a lot of new growth in these areas, which had been left scared by bushfire. After a short break for a drink and snack we continued on, as we descended our surroundings began to change and we found ourselves walking through beautiful bush that was untouched by fire. The sound of water and birdlife made it a memorable walk through this tranquil, magical environment. Another short break at Picture Point, which offered us some views of Harrietville, we finished our journey where Lynette greeted us with a refreshing cool drink, which was greatly appreciated, thanks Lynette. We drove into town for a coffee then Harvey, Lynette and Brooke headed off for Melbourne while the rest of us drove back up the mountain to retrieve cars and head for home.

Participants: Leonie Armstrong, David Holroyd, Richard McNeill, Jacqui Davies, Claire Cassidy, Ron Cann, Rod Catchpole.

10am, a beautiful day at Neerim South and eight walkers intent on a leisurely walk in three short sections in the hills around Noojee. As we headed toward Toorongo Falls carpark, the first casualty was Chris’ car which coughed along for a while and finally spluttered to a halt. Luckily it was only 50 yards from the carpark, so he was unceremoniously pushed into the parking bay.

Bonnet up and lots of uncertain Mmmming shed no light on the problem. Not to worry, we still had two other cars in which we could all fit, so we headed off on our first walk – a circuit in the Toorongo – Amphitheatre Falls Reserve. The track and viewing platforms have been recently upgraded under a Greencorps program with particular involvement by local indigenous youth.

The results are impressive with sturdy track construction and drainage and terrific viewing platforms giving a feeling of projection and proximity to each of the falls. As Ron observed the tracks also had taken on a natural bush feel where leaf litter had naturally accumulated. We spent some time enjoying the solid flow and roar of the Amphitheatre falls before continuing in our anti-clockwise circuit.

Another group walking ahead and then behind us were enjoying nature in a different way, at least given a distinctive sickly sweet smoke that occasionally wafted our way… At Toorongo falls there is a metal bridge/platform with grid mesh flooring that arches across the river. Apparently this had to be lowered into the deep ravine by a helicopter as a single piece. It would have been impressive to watch.

Continuing downstream the track becomes a little rougher and more slippery and we eventually returned to the carpark after about an hour’s walk. The car still wouldn’t start so we left it there and Chris arranged for the RACV to meet him at Neerim South at 3.30pm, after the walk.

We enjoyed lunch in the park area on the river on Noojee. Whilst the two drivers completed a short car shuffle the rest of use walked through the town up behind the fire station to find the old Noojee railway, now a Rail Trail. We all then walked south on the flat, grassy trail wondering about the age of the surrounding forest and how far it actually was to the trestle bridge, as Chris wasn’t sure if it was 5km one way or 5km return.

It turned out be perhaps even shorter than 5km each way as we rounded the bend to see the trestle after less than half an hour; We spent some time on the bridge and reading the information display on the history of the railway before the drivers car shuffled again. The railway was burnt down something like six times to varying degrees during its existence before finally being abandoned in the 1950’s.

Next stop was Glen Nayook which had been recently visited by quite a few on the walk, not including the leader. There is a fair bit of work going on here, expanding the car park and again making the track more accessible and erosion resistant. It really is a lovely walk, heading down down down into a dark cool fern forest and a trickling clear creek flowing down a stony bed. The track finishes at the bottom where a seat was conveniently placed. Hopefully the circuit back up will complete a lovely short walk. As for now though we retraced our steps back up the hill, finding the interpretive signs at pausing distance. Another group including a panting old dog were heading back up around the same time. The whole dozen or so of them were swallowed into two 4WD’s.

We concluded with the obligatory afternoon tea on the lawn up the lane at the Neerim Sth bakery. The sun continuing to shine and provide warmth to finish off our day. Thanks to the members who joined in the walk.

PS: The RACV man seemed to know exactly what the problem was with the car and fixed it within 30 seconds when he watched the engine trying to start. Apparently the air flow sensor had come adrift (when hitting a large pothole) from the air filter. The engine thought it was getting no air and consequently wouldn’t start properly…

Mere track notes from your resident non-member (I’m really Dorothy Dix in disguise). The good thing about being a non-member is you can’t be sacked! And so to NZ …

Pam (“The Moderator”) and I flew into Christchurch, picked up our hire car and zoomed down the road past all the hedged trees that is a habit peculiar to Kiwi farmers. They all choose different trees, rarely natives, often cottonwoods, pine trees, occasionally eucalypts, let them grow about 30 feet, and then they hedge them. Never did see the machine that does the job, but it’s all very neat, tops level and sides even. Must be fierce winds in the winter.

We stopped for that great NZ standby, fish and chips, and why is their batter always better than ours? This is my Lose Weight Trip so I’m not going to indulge very often, but while I’m at it I’ll have battered oysters and battered mussels as well!

After some serious haggling at an old hotel about to be converted to a backpackers we settled in for the night.

Next day off to Dunedin to meet Shirley (“The Sugar Sheriff”) and Julie (“The Punctuality Queen”) – more later! Hardly had time to see Dunedin but I reckon it’s the most beautiful city in the world (excluding Venice). Didn’t see much before we wound around to the sea, and a very ultra-modern serviced unit, where a very hospitable Jack was putting Pam up, and graciously included her tag-along friends (very sweet of you Jack – thankyou!). It was getting on for dusk but we just had time for Jack to zoom (and I mean vrm, vrmm) around to the world’s steepest street which did look undriveable but proved not to be!!

After much discussion we ate at a Cambodian restaurant, which was quite nice, but no different to Vietnamese.

Next morning we really wanted to see Jack’s project. He is the “Big Chief” of their new water treatment plant. I hope the Kiwis treat him well 'cause he could do all sorts of things to their water. I’m not just thinking bad breath and bathroom visits; what about infertility?! He could put them all to sleep!!

We had to pick up the girls. Well Shirley was ready, and Julie …? Nearly, which happened quite often!

Next stop the albatross colony, not just any old albatross but a “Royal Albatross”. Don’t know about “Colony” for in my mind’s eye there were hundreds of them, and me weaving between big fluffy chicks, touching them when no-one was looking. In fact, we saw only two! Still, “you never know if you don’t go!” The video was interesting. The chicks get to weigh about 12 kilos! When they are finally weaned, Mum and Dad fly off in different directions, and don’t meet again for 2 years. Then they come back to the same “colony” and start again. They mate for life – is this a recipe of success we should investigate??

Down the coast we go, visiting a seal …? … well not “colony” because we saw only 4 on the beach, more a seal “haven”? But fun to get so close.

About this time we notice that our hire car is getting a flat tyre. After a bit of kicking and a look on the map (there aren’t a lot of petrol stations in NZ) we have a bit of a pow wow, and 3 of us are a bit concerned. But our intrepid leader is very intent upon our next bird watching destination, and carries the day. We do in fact see the rare “yellow footed penguins”, after a BIG hike down and through and along the sand dunes. Well this IS my weight-reducing holiday I tell everyone. (Not all of our conversation was intellectual and erudite). We nicked up and around a few more sand dunes into a hide, and saw – ONE!

Back we go, along, up, up, you get the picture, to find one tyre looking too far gone to drive on. The boot had 4 lots of women’s stuff, enough for 3 weeks, and it seemed a BIG JOB to get it all out. There was quite a lot of seditious muttering among the troops and a riot looked on the cards, but Julie said airily: “Ah, just ask someone for a pump”. And would you believe it, the first person she asked had one. We had asked several people along the way as we worried, but to no avail - #*@#&*!!

Ah, the joy of command. In no time the happy caravaner had at last been able to use his brand new battery operated pump and the tyre proved to be no problem at all, as Julie had thought.

The rebellion was averted. Now all ran like clockwork, just as our leader had planned. We pulled into Invercargill YHA. Quite luxurious really, and another rather gracious city, amazing considering how far south it is. But the most amazing thing of all was in their museum. They have a live dinosaur. Yes, truly. It’s called a tuatara and it looks like a big iguana, but it is unchanged since dinosaur times. They used to be common throughout parts of the South Island but like all NZ fauna is becoming rare. They are breeding them however, quite successfully, in their small museum. The major one that they have on display is 130 years old and the keeper/curator told me he thinks it will live to 300 years old, but could live to 500. No-one knows. They can breathe once every 3 hours if they wish, and slow their heart rate down to 1 beat per minute!

The one in the enclosure was about 3 foot long, with big black eyes, and completely still. But when I moved around the room his head swivelled around – quick as a flash – spooky …!

Off to Stewart Island, about 40 km from the bottom of the South Island, but apparently a much milder climate than Invercargill. We settled in, and caught a water taxi over to Ulver Island, a tiny dot in a sheltered bay, but amazingly it used to have a postmaster (and even more amazingly that postmaster’s great granddaughter belongs to West Gippsland Bushwalkers)! It seems Ulver Island was the most central place for the various timber getters and fishermen to call, and when he raised the flag people came, not only to collect the mail, but to socialise. I gather the postmaster was often an educated fellow, and this one certainly was – quite a naturalist.

No-one lives there now. It is quite hilly, and reforested, free of the scourge of the mainland – ferrets, stoats, weasels. There are all sorts of naturalists and zoologists studying things, and our intrepid leader was soon tarrying in that position that all leaders should be assigned to – THE REAR – and henceforth that was the place to find “The Punctuality Queen” - for the rest of the trip!

We criss-crossed Ulver on the directions of the map, and finally, amid frantic signalling, we spotted something that moved. A kiwi? No, a weka, another flightless bird. We were so pleased with ourselves, that is until we realised, after seeing the 5^th or 6^th, that they were all pretty tame. Oh well!

Now all this time you are probably wondering about the rest of Stewart Island, down at the bottom of NZ, with the magical attraction of an “ISLAND”. Mysterious? Compelling? A time warp?

Mm, no, not really. We did a 3 day walk there, a fair bit of board walk and a lot of it steps, for which we were grateful, because in between it was slurry and you had to try to step on roots, as you couldn’t gauge the depth of the slurry (no-one disappeared). It misted rain quite often, but fine enough to dry on my silk shirt, and not cold. The forest was very attractive, moss-covered, moody, atmospheric, dripping, and so, so, still. Quite the magic kingdom. There was the occasional Rimu pine, the foliage of which Captain Cook and party ate to prevent scurvy – sort of finger length stems covered in soft needles. I tried them, but decided my “weight loss diet” didn’t need to descend to masochism and my vitamin C would be oranges.

My W L Diet is something I like to TALK about a lot, even earnestly. I noticed everyone liked to talk about food, and what they carried, and from their superior position of THINNERS they showered me with advice (a LOT of advice). All of a sudden I felt like a cornered rat, as Shirley fixed me with an icy stare and suggested I GIVE UP SUGAR. “Well,” I whimpered, “I only like to talk about it.” Really, the very thought – I’m happily addicted to it. But the die was cast – every time I made a cup of tea, there was the “SUGAR SHERIFF”. Watching! I had to resort to all sorts of subterfuge and I had to give up talking about the W L Diet. But Shirley NEVER gave up! Even when we were home and I was having lunch at Shirley’s, I had to ask for the sugar. Sigh, sigh, some people are really hard to travel with!

All in all Stewart Island was worth the trip (“you never know if you don’t …”) and there is a certain sense of privilege about going to an island. But in the light of how stunning the Kepler and Milford were, I think one’s time (if limited) could be better spent on some of the other tracks.

Return to the mainland across a sea, still as a millpond, doing about 30 knots in the big cat ferry, a raft of penguins flying through the water at our bough.

The “Punctuality Queen” had everything organised and off we went to Te Anau, and an immaculate YHA, complete with a FREE FOOD section which yielded constant delights and needed quite a bit of attention. For instance, there was a bottle of dettol-based sand fly soother, forbidden contraband like chocolate (amazing), rice, butter, sauces, biscuits, salad, etc. Like our own private lucky dip!

We were all used to bunking in together by now. The “Punctuality Queen” considered it her right to spread her stuff around ¾ of the room, and all over my bunk, even if I was lying on it, and was heard to mutter under her breath if I moved and something fell off. Gee, it’s hard being an invitee. As for reading far into the night with your headlamp, well you just have to have a thick skin.

The “Sugar Sheriff” immediately washed everything she owned, and smalls that I thought went out with the bow and arrow days were strung like Christmas decorations across the room.

There was a little bit of space behind the door, and Pam sat there writing her diary until she was squashed so often she moved under a high single bunk.

We rediscovered cappuccinos, ate big steaks (and salad!), hit the souvenir shops, then pared down our rucksacks in preparation for the next walk …

(Sunny’s report will continue in the July News – the Kepler and the Milford Tracks)

I had intended on going with John Sunderland but could not get time off work when he was travelling (27^th May – 4^th June). I managed to convince one of my work mates to go with me (Dave Plozza) as he had not yet walked in Tassie and could go at moments notice.

So just on 15 days in advance I booked the apex fare on the Spirit of Tasmania and we forked out the massive total of $272 each for a return trip with a car each (solved car shuffle worries and the “every now and then” bus service during the off season). This was much cheaper than the $442 each normal fare. A cost of $50 for the national park fee for us and one car was the only other fee payable.

Onto the boat by 8:15pm and we were in Devonport by 7:00am. Shopping, breakfast and gas bottles purchased, we were doing the car shuffle.

We dropped a car off at the Cradle Mt. end (which had to be just out of the park to avoid being fined) then by 1:00pm we were packed and ready to go. We decided upon the 2:00pm ferry rather than walking along the lake track with full packs and trying to get to Pine Valley by the next day. Pine Valley hut was reached 2.5 hrs after the ferry dropped us off, with about ½ an hour of daylight left. We shared the hut with a very nice NSW couple in their late 50’s.

The next day was very frosty at 3.5 deg in the hut, but so much sunshine that we made a good day trip up The Acropolis with views as far as you could see. Care had to be taken due the large amount of frost on every rock which had not seen the sun (most of them)!

After a long lunch we descended, finding the puddles of water refrozen. We met a French Canadian girl, Nancy, on her way up to get a quick look, half way up the Acropolis. She somehow did not believe that we swam our packs across Lake St Clair (16 km)!! Well, she did trust us enough to buddy up and complete the walk with us.

The next day we walked out to Windy Ridge hut for a lateish lunch, and then onto Kia Ora Hut just before dark. At Kia Ora hut we met 3 very interesting characters who were working on expanding the hardened tent sites (many more sites now, and they look great, with party sites set up for larger groups). We walked into the hut expecting the temperature to be somewhere like last night, at around 10-12 deg. It was to our surprise when it was a very balmy 24 deg.! The workers had cranked up the coal fire so hot that it was glowing.

Next day we set off optimistically, hoping for a clear dash up Mt Ossa (Tassie’s highest peak). Well, too slow and too late we reached Mt Ossa Track to see it disappear behind cloud and an increasing wind. Who was waiting for us at the turn off but no other than Strzelecki member Wolf Gohler who had started off a day earlier than us, so we had a chat and then wandered off in different directions.

We opted to walk up East Pelion to allow our international visitor to photograph a wallaby (Nancy was very excited, being a biologist specialising in large animals) and some of the other flora and fauna. On we walked to Pelion Hut. It started to rain just after we arrived, so a nice hot lunch was consumed in the relative comfort of the “New” New Pelion Hut. Three other walkers joined us for the night, having walked in from the Arm River Track 4 hrs from the road.

After a night of fighting domestic mice which were very persistent we again had a latish start for a long walk (18km). The last hour of walking that day was in heavy rain and strong wind (goodbye fine weather). Nancy was very excited to find a live wombat to photograph (yes, those things which do the square droppings). The weather that night was rough, wild and cold. We struggled through OK inside Windermere Hut and even had cold (very cold) chocolate moose.

A cold and wet start saw us storm trooping off to Waterfall Valley Hut for another late lunch and dry out. Before we suffered cabin fever we went outside at dusk to check out the old Waterfall Valley Hut and the new hardened tent sites which are now located just above the old hut under the trees, very pretty site. Two more late walkers arrived and hastily made dinner and went to bed, soon to be followed by ourselves.

Another wet and wild night, quick breakfast, and we were on our way to cold beer and hot chips at the Cradle Tavern. Then a long walk, as the shuttle bus doesn’t operate during weekdays - another 6 km, very painful for me as my Achilles’ tendons were telling me they were not happy at all - and still are!

I hope that John’s trip goes well too - they will be walking in snow as it started to snow when we left the Lake St Clair end of the track on Wednesday.

Participants : Kathy Almond, David Gibbons, Rae Moore, Henk Pillikers, Claire Cassidy, Jacqui Davies, Wolfe Gohler, Dennis Nagle and Ben Aalbers.

With a weather forecast that sounded perfect with a little bit of luck, we met at Parkers Corner for an on time start. I was the last to arrive, at 7.57am. Well done everyone. Vehicles were quickly organised and we departed for Beardmores via the Thomson Dam.

To begin the walk Rae gave us a quick history of Beardmores and how her father had been the mailman from Walhalla to Woods Point. She had shared the occasional trip with him and enjoyed scones and cream at Beardmore pub, more ammunition for a car sick kid on the way to Aberfeldy.

Back to walking, we set out for Low Saddle via the Low Saddle Track (funny about that)! On the way views unfolded of the Thomson Dam wall and a ripper one of Mt. Erica, Mt. Kernot and an unusual one of St. Gwinear. As we progressed, each downhill got steeper and longer and each saddle deeper. Finally we reached Low Saddle, a very narrow rocky neck of land that dropped over a cliff into the Aberfeldy River below. No way were we going to access the river down that way.

At this point the main road veered off down to the Thomson River, however we kept walking on another part of the track that had turned into an overgrowing motor bike route, compliments of a large gum that had fallen across the road and blocked 4 wheel drives.

Half an hour found us a point where I decided to leave the road and proceed off track down the side of the hill. It just so happens other people had thought the same and the route was marked with the odd plastic tape tied to saplings Dennis led us down to the river, on the way coming across the most magnificent set of deer wallows I had ever seen. A small area had played host to these most elusive animals over many years with a lot of disused overgrown wallows in evidence. They enjoyed the water that was exposed to the surface at this point and the clay that they had dug around in. David pointed out a wild cherry tree that had the bark rubbed off its side and several branches above head height that the deer had "preached".

It was very easy to find the tunnel. This tunnel had been dug to divert the water of the Aberfeldy River under a spur so that the main bed of the river dried up and the miners were able to sluice it in their search for gold. The outlet was about 10 feet above ground level and clearly visible. Everyone managed to cross safely. The tunnel was plenty high enough inside to walk in and the walls bore evidence of the early miners who had worked hard. The ceiling glittered with pyrites, fools gold.

Several drill holes were to been seen. In the days before compressed air, one miner had held the drill up to the ceiling and turned it while another miner had hit the back of the drill with a sledge hammer, all to create a hole to fill with explosives. Then the broken rock was removed from the scene and the process started all over again. Tough men.

Lunch was enjoyed by the river with some of us skipping stones, some of us swimming, (they’re mad, the water was icy cold) and some of us soaking up the weak autumn sun. All too soon it was time to turn back and face the tough slog up hill to the cars. Back to Low Saddle then the grind really began. Puff puff, pant pant, tired legs, red faces, stop for a rest, how many more hills to go?

At 3.50 the cars came in sight and we all enjoyed the rest in plush seats as the vehicles sped back to Rawson.

Many thanks to David and Wolfe who provided transport from Rawson to Beardmores. Thanks to everyone who supported me and came along and enjoyed a little bit of our backyard and history.

Wingan Inlet to Red River

Date: January 2005

I gathered some friends from Melbourne, Evan and Sarah, and along with Mira headed off from Warragul on Saturday morning, departing under the cover of a bit of drizzle.

We drove till Bairnsdale and stopped for morning tea and coffee. This had to be a record time spent waiting for coffee from an empty café.

We finally arrived in Cann River with the weather looking good for walking (slightly overcast). Lunch was had and we were soon off for the last leg of our journey to Wingan Inlet campground. Packs were sorted and kayak launched - for me to paddle across the inlet and everyone else to walk around the track to the entrance of the inlet.

At about 3:00pm, with everyone across the inlet, all packs loaded correctly and the track located, we set off in perfect walking weather (somewhat later than planned)!

Alas, my memory failed me regarding the extra rocks we had to scramble over; yes, my Melbourne visitors were not too keen on these rocks: “Only about fifteen minutes worth of them though. It won’t be hard!” After an hour and a half we were now onto smooth sand and a lovely beach. Some of the beach views are amongst the best I have seen. “Oh yes these are only just a small pile of rocks to scramble over. Come on, hurry up, it will be dark before we get there!” I say, disappearing behind yet more rocks. We rested a while before we headed off for the last 2 km of beach walking which I must say is more exhausting than rock scrambling.

Upon arrival at Red River inlet I decided not to risk wading around the unknown and unseen banks of the inlet to the camp area. We went around a bit further and up the rather large and exhausting sand dune and over the other side. I was not popular as it turned out we could have walked easily around the waters edge and avoided the last expenditure of all the unfit ones’ energy.

Camp was quickly set up and Evan and I set off for water (about 5km round trip), back just before it got dark. A small fire was set up and a feast of organic chicken sausages, bread rolls, salad greens and homemade plum chutney was prepared. There was sleep and rain for the night.

More rain and some wind was to follow next day. Walking along the beach, fishing, cooking and fetching water was the agenda for Sunday. Sarah had to go for a 12 km run to fit in with her training schedule to run a marathon. After closer inspection of the map we figured she ran about 16km up and down the beach (very sore feet on Monday). Along with billy tea we had a slow Sunday, somewhat sheltering out of the wind and rain. Tarps were set up to give us some dry areas to sit.

Sunday night had us lounging around the small campfire cooking dinner, (my special home made dehydrated chicken curry and rice), washed down with the “other” 2ltr of red wine.

Monday morning came and it was a still day with not much wind and some sun breaking through. We broke up camp after a few more billy teas and fruit toast and started our trek back to the kayak. The pace that we set far exceeded our slow pace on the way there. Our progress was threatened with some very black clouds but thankfully they stayed out to sea and dodged us.

Back to Wingan Inlet and the sun was burning down upon us, so the trangia was set up for a cup of tea while we all went for a swim across the entrance (we really walked as it was only knee deep). A cup of tea and lunch was had while we dried out then setting off to ferry every one across the entrance. I waved goodbye and paddled back to the car while the rest set off on the foot track (paddling was much quicker even though all heavy objects were loaded into the kayak).

The car loaded, we set off for an ice cream at Cann River. The big drive home took about 4.5 hrs.

A good trip - must get back there again some time soon, maybe walk off to Mallacoota? Any takers???

Track Maintenance Weekend

Date: 12^th + 13^th February

I was glad I made the effort and got out to this trip. Saturday was cool and misty overcast and quite cold when we arrived at the car park. As Wayne said, “ Typical weather for the Baw Baws”.

We could not complain since Andy only had a short sleeve shirt and a sleeveless jumper.

The rangers were well organised, which is important for getting much done. The heavy gear was transported by Ag’ bike and trailer to Gwinear Saddle. (I managed to get my tent on the trailer!)

There was Maurice, Denis, Ron, Eileen, Wayne, Neville and Bill, all in Friends of, and myself from SBC. Neville had walked in from Mt Baw Baw. Pam joined us for Sunday. From Parks there was George and Andy.

The job list was considerable: replacement of broken boards, trimming shrubbery, new signposts, some drainage bars, modification to the water bars and excavation to park standard which is quite a lot of digging.

The power hedge trimmers were very effective for alpine scrub trimming. Ron and Denis became very experienced at wielding these.

Andy provided Saturday night’s meal, biscuits and dip, steak and salad and chocolate. Sunday morning there were pancakes too.

These working bees are good fun and a very different type of bush experience to a normal walk. You spend more time in one area. You get to chat to the rangers. And overdo it on the hand tools and tire yourself out.

I feel that we, SBC, should have more people there. There was so much more that could be done. The rangers are realistic; it will be a year or so before they get back to this section. There are jobs for anyone who is capable of walking up there.

Graham

Sea Eagle Bay (Wilson's Prom)

(An exploratory walk – tough and memorable)

Date: 12^th – 14^th March

The drive into Tidal River, the walk from the carpark to the southern end of Oberon Bay was almost in euphoric state – an unreal sense of stillness and beauty.

About 1.00 p.m. we left the beach and began our partial climb of the ridge to Mt. Norgate. In a few minutes the euphoria had totally dissipated: almost impenetrable 1 metre high scrub, then 2 m scratching tea-tree, midday heat of such intensity that I have not previously experienced, ripped skin, torn shirt, lost water bottle and heat exhaustion. Five hours later, less than ½ way to our intended campsite, less than 2 km. covered, we found a reasonable campsite near the head of a gully, with some reasonable water reasonably close, and some very weary bodies.

We left at 8.30 with daypacks for the 2 km. walk to Sea Eagle Bay, but without illusions about an outcome. The country was initially more open and less steep. Wayne led us along the treed edge of the rock faces of hill 391m, on an increasingly hot morning, until the rock faces became too steep. We then plunged through thick 2m high scrub to the creek: a gently flowing creek with beautifully cold water, shaded by tall eucalypts and creek side tree ferns: a joyous discovery. An hour later, about midday, with some easy streamside walking, some rock hopping and climbing, grunting, and yes, more scratches, we reached Sea Eagle Bay.

The offshore island, Answer Island, enhances the visual sense of a bay, and everywhere steep rock faces dip to the water. On this hot still day that wonderful deep blue-green of the Prom water, the gentle surging of the swells across partially exposed rocks created an enchanting land and ocean scene. Denis and Wayne cavorted in the water, then washed off the salt in a private rock pool. We lunched on a steep slope high above the water, a truly memorable hour on this hot, windless day, even without any sea eagle sighting.

We left about 1.00 p.m., expecting a long hot difficult return journey of 4 ½ hours. We decided to follow the creek line as far as possible. In the relative cool of the ferns, and with frequent drinks stops, we made very good time: the gully took us almost to the saddle divide. We reached the campsite at 5.00 p.m., pleased and relieved. Our spirits and tired bodies rebounded during the next two hours of lazing, dosing, talking and eating.

About 7.00 p.m. we went across to a nearby group of 3-4 m high boulders, with a commanding view of the western coast, offshore islands, and sunset and enveloping sea fog: an hour of awesome beauty.

Quite uncertain of what the notorious Prom scrub might still hold for us we set off along the creek line at 8.20 a.m. Eighty minutes later we stood on the ocean beach at low tide. There had been a few tricky patches.

The lows and highs of an exploratory walk: 5 hours in, 80 minutes out! But now we know there is a navigable 6-hour walk from Oberon Bay to a campsite near Sea Eagle Bay.

Thanks Eileen, Denis and Wayne for your companionship during 3 days of a really tough walk.

Maurice

Beginners Ocean SCUBA Dive

Cape Patterson

Date: Saturday 19^th March

It started out like a usual Melbourne autumn morning - crisp and clear, with the promise of a warm, sun-filled afternoon to come. We were not disappointed. The sun shone, the wind blew gently, the sea sparkled, and the anticipation of a day of excitement and exploration was stretched out before us.

Seven club members (Ron Cann, Rob Bentvelzen, Mira Halpern, Denis Nagle, Harvey Miller, Andrew Runciman, Kathy Barnes - plus other family member and friends - participated in the 'Discover Scuba Session' at Cape Patterson. Some had dived before, while for others, the experience of doing something ‘unnatural,' that is, pretending to be a fish, was a new experience filled with some degree of apprehension. Not surprisingly though, everyone seemed to approach the afternoon with usual gusto and eager anticipation. Those who did not possess a current diving accreditation had to complete an introductory session at the Morwell Leisure Centre. This, and the day at Cape Paterson was run by Rob Timmers, of SEAL Diving Centre, Traralgon.

I found Rob to be extremely professional in his approach, clearly explaining the requirements, the dangers, and the precautions we needed to take. He gently eased us into the process of becoming a fish, showing us how to breathe, (sounds silly doesn't it?), descend and ascend, clear our facemasks, and replace our demand valves (just in case they became dislodged when at deeper levels). This professionalism was repeated when we got to Cape Paterson.

The dive itself at Cape Patterson, while far too short, was exhilarating. The water was clear, giving good visibility, and enabling us to explore the seabed, the rocks and various types of sea growth, including abalone. Sadly, few fish, sharks, stingrays, dolphins, lobsters were home on the day we visited.

The day left some members very keen to do more diving and gain accreditation (with some gentle advertising from Rob Timmers), while for others, the jury is still out. Nonetheless, all had a wonderful and most enjoyable day.

Many thanks to Denis Nagle for having the foresight and initiative to co-ordinate and organise the day!

Harvey

Mt. St. Gwinear and Jans Hut

Date: Saturday 2nd April

Participants: Jacque Davies, Claire Cassidy, Tim O'Connell, David Gibbons, Wolfe Gohler, Fran Miller, Ben Albers, Lisa Wilms, Denis Nagle, Angie Bailey, John Sunderland

The group of twelve walkers met at the "Parks" office in Rawson, remarkably close to on-time. Next stop was Gwinear Car Park, where some of us were able to enjoy the pleasant April morning for a while while others shuffled vehicles.

We set off up the track, and soon arrived on top of Mt St Gwinear, where it was pleasantly sunny, hazy, and, as always, windy. Continuing down the other side, Eileen took great delight in showing off the stonework done on the track, especially to those of us (or was that just me) who know the park well, but see the tracks only covered with cold white stuff. I must admit, I remember the place as dreadfully wet and boggy in summer, but the trip across the Gwinear Flats was not at all bad.

We dropped down into Mustering Flats, had a short break on the "near shore" at the original hut site, then crossed the flats - with dry feet, an experience that again runs contrary to all of my memories of the place.

After inspecting the creek outflow, the serious navigation began. Disdaining to follow the odd cairns that survive, Eileen unerringly found the faint pad that runs down to the snow plains above the hut, while the rest of us tried to work out exactly where it had actually taken us.

We had lunch in a beautiful green glade a little below the pad, and continued on down to the snow plains. From here, Eileen again took us directly to the pad that runs down to the hut, though it was a little hard to follow in places, having become rather overgrown.

The hut itself is starting to show its age, as well, but is still an interesting place to visit. We had a good poke around before heading off down the spur to The Thompson Valley Road.

When I first heard of the exit route we were to take, I expected quite an adventure, thinking the hut was in the middle of nowhere, but (alas) the logging tracks now come within a few hundred metres of the hut, so after a brief tussle with some regrowth (and a spot of "willowing"), we had an easy walk down the track, reaching the road at Sharpes Track. After reshuffling the cars, we returned to Erica by a civilised 4 pm (or thereabouts).

East Gippsland Rail Trail and Mississippi Creek Tramway

Participants: Riders - Denis Nagle, Phil Waring, Julie Waring, Ron Cann, Chris Devers. Supply party – Jenny Cann, Marie Giffard, Leonie Armstrong (overnight Saturday).

Day 1. With the weather patterns of recent weeks it was always going to be difficult to string 3 days together without some rain. So no one was really surprised as Friday morning dawned with rain tumbling down. Phil and Julie were given the chance to practice their “patience” at the Caulfield Station with most V-line services delayed by an hour. Denis and Chris joined the train when it eventually arrived at Moe. Ron, Jenny and Marie (visiting from France) had received a call from Chris about the train delay so there was time for an extra coffee before heading down the highway for a rendezvous at the Bairnsdale Railway Station. The deluge continued until well past Sale.

Bairnsdale’s “Riviera Cycles” was to do very well out of the Strzelecki venture into East Gippsland. Anticipated rain and poor visibility had prompted Ron to upgrade his CRB style criss-cross “vest” to something more protective and “fluro”. But that was to be just the beginning – Chris had bigger plans. First it was the new lycra top and bike shorts, to go with the spare tube and rail trail brochures. Then he spied the range of new “hybrid” bikes, at an almost irresistible price! Surely not! Just a passing thought? Time for lunch! … “Come back in with me Phil?” … “How much do you think my old mountain bike’s worth?” “Get at least $50,” says Denis, “or I’ll buy it from you!” It must have been worth more than that as a deal was done, the purchase of a new pump being integral, and Chris was on the new “Giant” treadlie, leading the way to the Krowathunkooloong Keeping Place, Bairnsdale’s Aboriginal Cultural Museum. Easy Rider!

We spent an interesting hour there: a guided tour of the artefacts and written and pictorial displays; Denis displayed his electronic wizardry in finding the playback channel for the Bataluk Cultural Trail video; we learned how to make a bark canoe and fishing nets; Marie bought her first Australian gift, a boomerang for her sister in France; we heard lots of anecdotes, including the story of the historical local dominance of the Lake Tyers football team including the amazing 43 goals 1 point kicked by one of their players in one match (in the Guinness Book of Records 1991?).

Phil gave us the “hurry-up”, (after what he described as “unforeseen stuffing around by V-line and others!”), probably timely given that it was now 3.30 p.m., and we had got no further than the other side of the railway station! There was no great concern with daylight but Bruthen was 30 km away and it really was time to go if we were going to get settled into the pub, shower etc., in time for a leisurely meal and a few drinks.

Crossing the Mitchell River we were soon on the rail trail, a smooth bitumen surface to the Nicholson River Bridge, 9 km ahead. High above the water, it afforded excellent views downstream to the jetty and boats, road bridge, and township. Once over the bridge the trail becomes smooth gravel, continuing through undulating farmland until reaching a grassy woodland area, which is the old Bumberrah Railway Station. A further 8 km through tunnels, cuttings and overfills saw us at Mossiface, another old station. Soon after, with some sprinkles of light rain, the valley of the Tambo River came into view. Ron rode directly to the Bruthen Hotel where our very efficient support party had already unloaded luggage and allocated rooms for the night. The others took a slight detour across the old railway bridge over the Tambo. They stared in amazement at the bow wave created by the large carp swimming below.

The pub wasn’t flash but the rooms were spacious, the beds were comfortable, there were welcome hot showers down the hallway, the tariff was reasonable, and the hospitality was excellent. Fed and “well watered” it was a happy crew that dozed in front of the Glass House and gradually drifted off to bed. Phil might have still been dozing on the lounge if we hadn’t given him a decent nudge!

Day 2. The cooked breakfast had been ordered for 7.30. Angela had promised eggs, bacon, sausages, and cooked tomatoes to complement the juice, cereal, toast, and tea/coffee – so there was plenty of incentive to arise! Steady rain through the night had not let up, however, so no one was terribly anxious to leave the breakfast table! But Lakes Entrance and Saturday night’s accommodation at Swan Reach were some 60 km away, so waiting for the rain to clear could not be an option forever! What to wear? Too much, too little, too wet?!

After crossing the Tambo River the track climbs steadily through open eucalyptus forest. The turn off to the Gippsland Lakes Discovery Trail is reached after 11 km. The rain continued steadily throughout, and the speed of downhill sections threw as much water up from tyres as was descending from the heavens!

It was an exciting 4 km ride to the historic Mississippi Creek Quarry, mostly descending on an excellently constructed trail, with lots of sharp turns and rapid drops. Granite from this quarry was used to replace worm-infested timbers that had been used to secure a permanent opening into the Gippsland Lakes at Lakes Entrance in the 1890’s. Some of Melbourne’s early building also used marble from this quarry. We had a good break here, as the rain had surprisingly cleared away. The quality of the displays and fencing which bordered the old quarry was surprising – no expense spared, definitely designed to be around for quite a while!

From this point, the GLDT follows the route of the old light rail tramway used to carry the stone blocks to Lakes Entrance. It runs next to the Mississippi Creek for several km, winding through lush bush where native flora and fauna abound. Again there is amazing quality in the bridge construction, track formation and interpretative signage. This quality continues in the picnic area at Log Crossing with more excellent signage, bombproof picnic tables and self-composting toilets. We found ourselves wondering about the funding of the whole project and of the role played by DSE and the students of the nearby Forestech. Was there some rich benefactor?

There is a tough 400m section from Scrivener Rd, but the track soon levels out again before meeting the Lakes Entrance – Colquhoun Rd. The promised downhill run on the bitumen into Lakes Entrance had to be earned with some unexpected climbing, but Chris was forgiven as we eventually hit the downhill run into the town, Phil in particular having to ease back as the 60kph sign approached! A phone call to Jenny found the support party in the local bookshop, where Marie was purchasing her first Australian “English” book. While we rode they had visited Buchan (for kangaroos) and Lake Tyers.

After a leisurely lunch in the picturesque “Lakes”, most filling up on hot food, the riders continued, past the many jetties with their flotilla of fishing boats, and spying a couple of families of black swans, one with the fluffiest of cygnets walking along the footpath! An artist was painting at the top of Kalimna Point, reached with far less effort than we had been anticipating. Denis chatted briefly while the rest of us made our selection from his extensive display.

The next target was the old Nyerimilang Homestead, 10 km out of Lakes. Unfortunately the home itself was closed but we enjoyed a stroll around the grounds and spent a little while looking out over Lake King and the Ocean beyond. An oilrig was visible on the horizon. A close up view of an echidna energetically pushing its snout deeper into a subterranean culinary treasure was a delight! They have a decent pair of hind legs!

Rain was threatening so it was time to move on. Jenny made the mistake of parking outside the gate of a local property. This was obviously not an acceptable practice so after an unpleasant conversation we continued on our way with a distinctly unwelcome feeling pervading the air. It was fortunate that Marie had not met this “gentleman” earlier in her time in Oz – might have permanently tainted her perception of “the friendly Aussie”.

Like the day before it rained briefly towards the end of the ride, but we were spared for the most part. A leisurely ride north along the banks of the Tambo River was a delightful way to finish a solid day’s ride. Reaching the Princes Highway it was a short but steep climb to the Swan Reach Caravan Park where Chris had booked two cabins. My speedo for the day read 60.00 km … exactly!

Leonie had driven up for the night and brought all the supplies for a BBQ, a very popular idea! A missing phone led Chris to drive back to the lawns of Nyerimilang where he had briefly rested his weary bod. He returned with good news! A sumptuous meal was enjoyed by all - lots of helpers and Denis doing a great job at the hotplate. Sleep was welcome.

Day 3. Our ride back into Bairnsdale was leisurely. Again we raised an eyebrow at the unpromised hills which we found on our journey north along the gently flowing Tambo. Did Chris mention these?! At one stage we spent about 10 minutes climbing. Our return to the river level seemed to take about 30 seconds! Tears to the eyes! Denis spotted a peregrine falcon, perhaps another one to monitor. A very long driveway of a rural property was having its sloping edge paved with rock, enormous in scope and one suspects in dollars too.

We were soon crossing the river at Tambo Upper and after some significant climbs returned to the rail trail of day 1 for a gentle cruise towards Bairnsdale. We enjoyed a pleasant half hour at the Nicholson River, Julie and Phil with spectacular views from the elevated bridge, Chris, Denis and Ron down beside the river. Denis spied a boat “For Sale” ($15000) and immediately had a scheme running through his head where we could collectively purchase it and take it in turns to cruise the river and Gippi Lakes. Any takers?

Having reached Bairnsdale after a 35 km ride we spent a few minutes watching the daring tricks of the local youth on their bikes at the skate park. We decided not to join them! We pondered the insurance implications, reflecting on the challenges that bushwalking clubs have faced in gaining appropriate cover. After meeting up with our support team it was time for lunch in the relaxing environs of the Mitchell River.

The final ride was back to the station. Bikes were loaded onto the train (Ron’s to the bike rack) and we said our farewells, the train travellers hoping this time for a trouble free ride in the tender care of V-line, the car travellers returning to West Gippsland where inclement weather had prevailed for the entire three days! In spite of the gloomy outlook we had escaped the worst of it.

Special thanks to Chris for putting together a great activity, full of interest and with logistics that made the whole trip come together smoothly. Leonie’s meal on Saturday night provided a special touch. Jenny and Marie were a great support team, and played a key role – greatly appreciated! We look forward to Chris’ next trip. “Easy Rider” has the bug!

Federation Weekend

Walhalla Area

I attended a great Federation Weekend on the 8–10 October in the Walhalla area, with Rawson Village as the base for accommodation, walk bookings etc. Rawson was an ideal location, easily accommodating the needs of all walkers.

I believe some 225 walkers attended from 21 Federation clubs, and tackled the varied range of walks on offer over Saturday and Sunday. We were lucky with the weather; even though it rained on Friday night, the tracks were only a little tacky on Saturday and most had dried out by Sunday.

The guest ranger presenter on Saturday evening, from Parks Victoria (Andy Gillham), was entertaining, full of enthusiasm, and delivered his subject with passion.

The organising committee and the many helpers and walk leaders from the three clubs who hosted this memorable event – Melbourne Bushwalkers, Strzelecki Bushwalking and Ben Cruachan walking clubs – are to be congratulated for putting on such a well-organised event in the great spirit of ongoing Federation walks, which brings many people from our walking fraternity together.

Tired but triumphant I returned to Morwell on the morning of 18-10-2004 having the previous day participated in Bicycle Victoria's Round the Bay in a Day and having successfully completed approximately 200kms.

The ride from Docklands to Queenscliff was relatively speaking pretty plain sailing, flat roads, little breeze good speeds, though I did pass many people whose ride had been stopped short by a puncture or broken spoke etc etc and lack of tools on board to do any repairs.

Bicycle Victoria surprised me - I had been expecting the boring old Melbourne - Geelong freeway: cars and rabbits. But instead there were signs all over the place redirecting us tredlies on to the smaller roads where all we really had to contend with were the smelly chemical factories! Did not last very long though. About 60kms into the ride one of my knees started to give me grief but I tried to break through the pain barrier so that I would be able continue on.

Arrived in Queenscliff about 1ish,collected my lunch pack and continued on towards the ferry terminal. Much to the horror of some cafe customers I took a tumble in front of them as I tried to find road signs directing me to the ferry and not seeing a roundabout which appeared suddenly in front of me. As it loomed before me I made a split second decision to make a close acquaintance with the road and hopefully save the bicycle from front wheel destruction. Hands and legs did indeed make contact with said road as the reflexes of said customers surprised me with their speed of reaction. Just as quickly I was on the bicycle and back on track once more.

Finally arriving at the terminal I was greeted by a very long queue of tredlies, some whom had been waiting for "two hours". Once on the ferry I chose to sit inside where I could eat a very scrummy lunch, and sit goggle-eyed for the duration of the crossing completely unaware.

Had some walking spells between Dromana and Mt Martha; hills and exhaustion don't mix. The slowly downhills into Frankston were delightful, grateful that I had some knowledge of my whereabouts and as such some warning of Oliver's Hill whereabouts.

Still passing people whose bikes were upended I continued on with new energies, reinvigorated as the light at the end of the end of the tunnel began to smile more and more like a cheshire cat's grin.

Cruised into Mordialloc at about dusk as the pain between my shoulder blades and knee suddenly woke up with a start, bringing my speed, which had returned up to 25kms p/h, slowly down and down until reaching 11.9kms p/h by the time I reached Sandringham train station.

Had a wonderful time; the only thing I would change - I shall make sure that I learn the skills of strapping up knees to thus alleviate at least that excruciating pain out of the equation!

Managed extremely well with no training - how different could it be if I had been better prepared! Only time will tell!

Snake Island

Date: 1st - 3rd October

Participants: Julie Parker, Wayne and Christine Burge, Rob Hooper, Shirley Chandler, Wayne and Bob Leviston, Rod Catchpole, Peter Maffei, Robyn Shingles, Ron and Jenny Cann and Rob Bentvelzen.

What a wonderful weekend we all had at Snake Island! The Friday began casually but the end of the weekend was exciting!

Friday saw 14 of us gather at Port Welshpool. Our leader Denis was running a little late, but it didn't matter, as Geoff still didn't have the boat in the water. Geoff went down and had a look at the tide, cranked up the tractor and got as far as the caravan park (about 50 metres from where he started)!

Eventually the boat was in the water and we set off for the Swashway jetty to begin our 6.7 km walk to the huts. Rob Hooper's hat took a dip, to be rescued by the deckhand.

The walk to the huts began in cool weather with rain threatening. We met a ranger on a motorbike not long after, and a character in a 4 WD who we would come to know better over the course of our stay. On his way back to the huts the character offered to take packs back to huts. Two took up this offer.

We arrived at the huts uncertain where to camp. Wally, the character, suggested a couple of spots but Denis had arranged to camp at the cattlemen's huts with their blessing. The comfort of the huts was appreciated Friday evening as the easterly made things cool. The open fire made it cosy. We had a trip to the beach in the dark to look at the stars. Awesome!!

Saturday dawned fine, and after breakfast we were ready for a walk. Three hardy souls, Rob B, Shirley C and Julie P walked to the end of the island at Lighthouse Point. The rest, bar Christine B, on good advice from Wally walked to the Big Hole, and back along the beach to the huts, about a 17 km trip. The highlights were the koala that tried to climb Robyn's leg and the views of the northern end of the Prom. The highlight for me was the arrival of her majesty Christine in the 4 WD, being chauffeured around the island by Wally!

We all arrived back at camp suitably tired. Some fished for no result and others sat on the veranda and watched the kangaroos and the occasional hog-deer grazing in the paddock. Wally kindly offered the ladies a hot shower. That evening we had a great time sitting around the fire having lively discussions about power generation, white cockatoos and the mating habits of wombats.

Sunday dawned fine and warm. Denis was on the phone arranging the pickup. This was to be off the beach at Bentley Point. Knowing this, we had until 3 p.m. to walk some more of the island. We all arrived back around lunchtime. Wally had chauffeured Julie and Denis down to see the sea eagle's nests. We think there may have been a budding romance here, but Denis was playing gooseberry.

The wind had got up and we headed for the beach at 2.45. Reaching the beach the waves looked a little large but the boat was on time to pick us up. Some tense moments as Geoff took the boat up and down the beach looking for a better spot. None was found. Denis communicated with Geoff on the boat by mobile phone and the pickup would go ahead. Denis put his phone in his pocket. The boat anchored and drifted back on the anchor rope towards the beach and we had to walk about 30 metres to get on. Rob Hooper went out, the first wave hit him in the chest and all the shorter people looked very worried!!

We soon had a system going. Packs were ferried out and then the human cargo. Timing was everything as the boat heaved up and down with each wave. All were safely on board. Denis took his phone from his pocket, totally drenched. He threw it on the beach in disgust. Wally now has a mobile phone! A short trip across had us eye-balling the northern end of the Prom. Geoff gave us a history lesson, and then on lumpy seas took us to Welshpool.

This was a great trip. Many thanks to Denis for his organisation. It made the trip easier for the rest of us.

P.S. Wally Cayser was a very generous and interesting fellow. He is life-member of the Snake Island Cattleman's Association, one of the 2 “pilots” who lead the parties taking cattle to and from the island, and volunteer Park Ranger. Wally was more than willing to share his vast knowledge of the island with us and the stay was certainly richer for him being there. Thanks Wally!

Date: Sunday 19^th -Tuesday 28^th September

Day 1: A 4.30 am arising, last minute packing. 6am arrive at Marg and Dody’s, found them excitedly packing their new Prado for its first major trip. After a false start, phone Fran to check where to meet. Arrive Helen’s, her Toyota Hilux all packed, and we leave Drouin 7.15. A dream run through the city, tunnel, and over West Gate. It was near Ballarat the bladders demanded a break. Our first choice a roadhouse wasn't too good, we pushed on to Beaufort and found a very pleasant cafe for morning tea. Then Ararat and the Grampians in sight, the fields ablaze of canola yellow. Lunch in Nhill, we thought we had time on our sides. Then suddenly Dody indicated and turned up an unmarked track, we followed thinking, where the hell is he taking us! The car (a white Prado) then stops and the driver (not Dody) asks if he could help us. Realising our mistake we quickly do a u-turn only to find the real Dody turning off to see where we were going - after hails of laughter, we continued on. It wasn't until 6pm that we finally reached Murray Bridge and still an hour's drive to the Barossa.

It was a very weary group of travellers that checked into the caravan park in Nuriootpa, but a splendid dinner appeared in no time, courtesy of Fran, and a few glasses of red followed.

Day 2: Up and out by 8, despite my orders to sleep in. Through the vineyards around Kapunda with quaint stone cottages on every corner and on to Clare, where the shops had just opened. Important supplies purchased, (we had run out of lollies). The plan was to drive on to Melrose and there do a short walk to the top of Mt Remarkable. Being a 5hr return walk though, plus 2hrs of driving to reach Wilpena, we opted for the even shorter walk and a longer lunch. This achieved we continued on to Hawker where an art show in the local hall attracted our interest.

With afternoon shadows highlighting the craggy peaks of Wilpena Pound, we were led by Helen’s knowledge of a campsite in Rawnsley Park, situated at the base of a bluff of the same name. Out of the car fridge a meal sat defrosting, while we started on the hors-d'oeuvres: smoked oysters, eggplant and hommus dips, Lebanese bread, washed down with a wine or 3.

While spuds cooked in the coals of the open fire, we talked and joked, a real camaraderie now developed amongst us. Little did we know, for tomorrow we'd need it - the hardest day of all.

Day 3: Began before dawn for those that wanted a shower. Breakfast over, we filled all the water containers we could and set off for Wilpena some 30ks drive. The Parks info centre was not yet open but a forecast posted on the window said we were in for 35oC. The track was well sign posted. We took the outside trail, the most direct route to St Mary's Peak - maybe we could get the hardest section done before it got too hot. For a while we thought we were doing the distance in record time, the track undulating through a cool forest of native cypress pines (callitris glaucophylla). Blue green ringneck parrots fed on the ground in this park-like setting.

Then on a rise we saw the track ahead, winding its tortuous ascent mercilessly to the ridge. Exposed now to the sun as there was no shelter offered by vegetation. Our pace slowed to a crawl, literally; at some places we clambered over large boulders and sheer rock faces. We were all very glad to hear from other walkers ahead that we had done the worst. From this saddle the summit was in easy reach. The peak though is central to the Adnyamathanha peoples creation story, and it is for this reason that they would prefer that visitors do not climb to the summit.

New Additions
Blue Jacket, RedJacket, Jericho Walk	Bike Ride, Jells Park to Patterson River
Mushroom Rocks – Mt. Erica	Warragul – Drouin Bike Ride
Reviews
1000 Steps, Dandenong Ranges
AAWT - 2007	Aberfeldy River Diversion Tunnel - 2005
Australian Alpin Walking Track - 2005	Bear Gully Base Camp - 2007
Beginners Ocean SCUBA Dive	Boolarra to Mirboo North Rail Trail
Bushfire Fencing Support	Burge's Christmas Camp - 2007
Bushrangers Bay to Cape Schanck	Canoeing the Wanganui River
Cross Country Skiing - Mt St Gwinear 2007	Cross Country Skiing - Mt St Gwinear 2008
Churchill Island - 2007	Cup Weekend Walk 2006
Cup Weekend Walk - Snowy River 2007	Come and Try Day – Gliding Nº1
Collins Siding to Tyers Junction - 2006	Easter Walk 2007: Snowy Mountains
Easter Walk 2007 Snowy mountains - Mt Jagungal. (Cont)	Erica - Thomsom Station Rail Trail
Fauna in the Forrest, Rawson	Federation Weekend - 2004
Five Mile Beach Wilson’s Promontory - 2007	Four Brothers Rocks - 2007
Freemans Mill Track – Bunyip State Park - 2007	Friends of Baw Baw Track Work - 2007
Full Moon on Feather Top - 2006	George Bass Coastal Walk
Gammon & Flinders Ranges - 2004	Girls On Top - 2005
Great Ocean Saga – Otways National Park	Great Ocean Walk – Otways
Great Southern Rail Trail - Meeniyan to Foster	Gurdies Nature Reserve
Hill End Bush	Inverloch to Cape Patterson
Jindivick to Labertouche Caves	Kilcunda To Punchbowl
Kiandra to Namadgi
Labertouche Caves Area	Labertouche Caves
Mitchell River Trail	Moe to Yallourn Rail Trail
Morwell National Park	Mt Loch - Machinery - Mt Hotham
Mt Baw Baw Alpine Resort to Mt St Phillack	Mt St Gwinear to Mt Baw Baw to Mt St Gwinear
Mt. St. Gwinear and Jans Hut	Murrindindi River Walk
Mt Howitt	Mt Howitt and Bryces Gorge
New Zealand Adventure	New Years Eve Mountain Retreat
Noojee - 2006	Northern Section Wilsons Prom
Otways National Park	President’s Weekend Cape Conran Coastal Park
Rail Trail & Mississippi Creek Tramway - 2004	Phillip Island - Koala Conservation Centre to Rhyll
Round the Bay in a Day - 2006	Reids Tramline and Ralph Cornwall Loch Valley Tramway 07
Sea Eagle Bay (Wilsons Prom)	Snow Shoe Shuffle - 2007
Snake Island	South America: Part 2 - Patagonia & The Inca Trail
St Gwinear Wildflower Walk	St Gwinear Snow Shoe Shuffle 2008
South America: Part 1 - Patagonia	Tamboon - 2006
Mt Tanjil Navigation Walk	Tassie Overland Track - 2005
The Overland Track, Tasmania	Torronga Falls and Ralph Cornwell Tramway Track
T wo Weeks In Kakadu	Track Maintenance Weekend
Warbuton Weekend	Wild Cherry Tree Track
Thomson Station to Walhalla via	Walhalla Circuit
Warburton / Lilydale Bike Ride
Wilson's Prom - Lighthouse	Weatherhead Range & Buttongrass Circuit
Willow Eradication Baw Baw Plateau	Wirilda Walk
Wingan Inlet to Red River	Woila Circuit, East of Cooma

Trip Reviews

Mt Tanjil Navigation Walk

Cross Country Skiing - Mt St Gwinear 2008

Torronga Falls and Ralph Cornwell Tramway Track

Two Weeks In Kakadu

Cup Weekend Walk 2006

Collins Siding to Tyers Junction

Round the Bay in a Day

Sunday

Wingan Inlet to Red River

Date: January 2005

Track Maintenance Weekend

Date: 12^th + 13^th February

Graham

Sea Eagle Bay (Wilson's Prom)

(An exploratory walk – tough and memorable)

Date: 12^th – 14^th March

Maurice

Beginners Ocean SCUBA Dive

Cape Patterson

Date: Saturday 19^th March

Harvey

Mt. St. Gwinear and Jans Hut

Date: Saturday 2nd April

East Gippsland Rail Trail and Mississippi Creek Tramway

Federation Weekend

Walhalla Area

Snake Island

Date: 1st - 3rd October

Date: Sunday 19^th -Tuesday 28^th September

Cup Weekend Walk 2006

Sunday

Date: January 2005

Date: 12th + 13th February

Graham

(An exploratory walk – tough and memorable)

Date: 12th – 14th March

Maurice

Cape Patterson

Date: Saturday 19th March

Harvey

Date: Saturday 2nd April

Walhalla Area

Date: 1st - 3rd October

Date: Sunday 19th -Tuesday 28th September

Date: 12^th + 13^th February

Date: 12^th – 14^th March

Date: Saturday 19^th March

Date: Sunday 19^th -Tuesday 28^th September