200110 Newsletter

74 Kallista Rd. Rochedale South QLD 4123 email [email protected] Phone No (07) 3341 7509 www.geocities.com/qldbwc

QUEENSLAND BUSHWALKERS CLUB

October 2001

Newsletter

Besides bushwalking, a lot of our members enjoy bike riding as on this outing..

New Members

Club News Pilgrimage

Welcome to the following new members.

The Pilgrimage held by the Gold Coast Bushwalkers Club was a great success with over 200 people attending. After a light rainfall on Friday night, Saturday turned into a great day for walking with slightly overcast skies making the walks pleasant and not too hot.

Linda Alaia June Arscott Dianne Bartholomew Keren Byrne Margaret Cobb Scott Gordon

On Sunday the sky turned blue and the Gold Coast Bushwalkers made the day into a grand social event. There were roving singers, throwing and tug-of-war competitions. Congratulations to the Gold Coast Bushwalkers for putting on such a friendly and enjoyable event.

Total number of financial members

Our public liability and personal accident insurance policy for the 2001/02 financial year has been renewed under almost the same terms as the previous year. Effective immediately, one important change that has been made by the underwriters is that they will no longer automatically cover visitors once they have completed 3 walks with a club. The Queensland Bushwalkers Club Committee has thus decided that any visitor coming on their third walk must pay the balance of the Membership Fee. Visitors pay $5 per walk for the first two walks, so on their third walk they would need to pay $10 to cover the balance remaining on the $20 Membership Fee. Once the full $20 has been paid and a signed nomination form given to the leader of the walk (or to a Committee Member), the visitor automatically becomes a Probationary Member.

Treasurer Outings Secretary Membership Officer Social Secretary Training Officer Editor Secretary

Supper Convenor Marilyn West

General Meeting Talks Social Night

Artist Ruth Radovanovich

Membership is $20 per person per year. Visitors pay $5 per walk to the Club to cover Insurance and other costs. Any such monies paid are taken off the membership fee. Due to Insurance demands a visitor must become a member on the 3rd walk.

General Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month at the East Brisbane State School, corner of Stanley Street and Wellington Road, starting at 7:30pm.

December 4th

3341 7509(H) 3852 1607(H) 3344 1927 (H) 3245 2186 (H) 3800 3963 (H) 3341 7509(H) 3345 3971(H)

Membership Fees

Meeting Place

A talk on what’s involved in leading a walk.

Patricia Kolarski Ken Fraser Ken Walters Barbara Makepeace Steve Moyle Richard Kolarski Danuta Gur

Other members who assist

Please, if you are a visitor, let the leader of the walk know if you have already done two walks.

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Management Committee

Insurance

November 6

Charles Lilley Liane Murphy Kristy Rayner Ben Reid Margaret Smith

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From the Editor Thanks to all who have sent articles and photos. The walks and photos we weren’t able to fit in the Newsletter can be seen on our website. The deadline for the next Newsletter is 27/11/2001. Articles accepted if clearly handwritten or typed, but preferably by floppy disc or emailed to [email protected]

Coming Club Events st

Christmas Party

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Dec 1 and 2

This year the Club’s annual Christmas Party will be held on private land near Mt Barney. Camping and a wood fire available plus covered area, hot water and showers. There are rudimentary bunks but members are encouraged to bring along a tent. Cost for camping $5.00 per night. Directions •

Drive to Rathdowney from Beaudesert.

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One kilometer past Rathdowney, turn right into the Boonah Rathdowney Road.

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After 10 kilometers turn left into Forest Home Road.

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After 700 meters turn left at the Zakopane sign.

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There is 250 meters of dirt road to the camp ground.

A few members will be going down Friday afternoon to prepare the area. Members may camp there the Friday and/or Saturday night or just come down for the day. There will be a walk starting on Saturday at 8:30am at Zakopane. The walk will finish early so that the BBQ and festivities may begin. Bring along food and nibblies to share. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matching Walks to Walkers The ratings for walks have recently been increased in an effort to more clearly indicate the level of difficulty and degree of fitness required for each walk. As a further guide it is recommended that new members and visitors begin with walks of a terrain difficulty level of 3 or 4 and a fitness level of about the same. It is important to note that a walk of 5 or 6 Kms around the suburbs is not comparable to an offtrack walk of the same distance or even a track walk in many cases. If you are able to keep up with the group throughout the walk and require little or no assistance of any kind then the level is suitable for you. Club walks are a group activity. It is the leader's responsibility to ensure that the group stays together. One slow walker can spoil the walk for the rest of the group as can someone who requires constant assistance. It is not acceptable for other walkers to carry the gear of a slow walker in an effort to help them try to keep up with the group. Individual walkers also have a responsibility to the group. It is not just a matter of being able to complete the walk but also of whether it can be done without being a liability to the rest of the group. Many leaders feel uncomfortable refusing nominations for their walks but need to do so in some circumstances to benefit the group as a whole. Walkers can assist leaders by not just thinking of their own desire to do the walk. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Past Walks Spicers Challenge D/W 17th June 7.30am, and the morning started with the billy on the boil at Governors Chair. It wasn't cold; it was freezing. My hands were aching, and we were all anxious to get underway, in an attempt to get some warmth into our bodies. First, a briefing, outlining the plans for the day ahead. None of us had been in the area before, but that did not quell our enthusiasm. I kept our group well informed, showing them our current position, and the route this walk would take us. We were all excited about the adventures that lie ahead, and I was sure that all that I had learnt over the past months was about to be put to the test. The first stage was a 3 kilometre road walk, followed by a section off track. The young ones surged ahead, whilst us smarter ones plodded along behind. I was aware that we had some tough

climbing ahead, but was unsure of the degree of difficulty. Upon reaching the state forest boundary fence, we regrouped. From this point on, we would all stay together. I selected a ridge which would bring us between the east and west peaks. Initially, it was a nice, steady climb, but gradually became steeper and steeper. Everyone was in a jovial mood, with plenty of things to see along the way. There were no tracks to follow, just the top of the ridge, and there was no way we were about to deviate from that. We had progressed about ¾ of the way up, and upon reaching a level section the decision was made; tucker time. Morning tea was a welcomed break. After this, we continued, and with about 200 metres to go, struck our first obstacle. The ridge that we had been following ended up in the middle of a cliff line, but this was not shown on the map. It was agreed that attempts to negotiate the cliff would have been too dangerous, which resulted in our first problem what to do! My idea was to go back and contour west and come up on the next ridge; however Linda thought that to do this would be too demoralizing. Scouts were sent to investigate possibilities; Linda went East, Charles went West, and I held the rest of the group together. They had a 10-minute limit to find an alternative way, or we headed back. It was a great break, with fantastic views and sunny skies. Charles returned, having found no way through, then Linda arrived back, having found a way through - but it was steep. East we went, but steep was an understatement; it was almost vertical! Time for the now familiar group discussion - but the decision was easy. We all wanted to have a go. The adrenalin was pumping, we were all excited (although I'm not quite sure - facial expressions revealed otherwise); this was to be our challenge! Linda led the way, whilst Trevor and I brought up the rear, keeping an eye on the group. It took us about an hour to go that last bit. Thank God for Trevor. Some of the ladies had started to cramp, and Trevor knew exactly what to do. Perched against trees, some great photos were taken. We had all made it to the top. We were all pumped up, and all wanted to go to the very top, which meant another razorback scramble. We finally made it, and all felt like we had conquered Everest. To recuperate, a long lunch was taken on West Peak. This is a great vantage point, with spectacular views and endless photo opportunities. To end the walk, a different ridge was chosen to make it a complete circuit. The day ended at the coffee shop at Aratula, with all reflecting on the adventure that we had endured. This was a great walk with great friends. Thanks to all who participated. Ken Stinson Wreck D/W 1st July We started this walk by rock hopping across Christmas Creek. Luck was on our side as nobody got wet due to the creek being extremely low. Once we got to the other side we located the well worn trail leading to Westray’s Grave and to the turn off to the Stinson Wreck. This trail passes a stand of lichen-covered coachwood before reaching a large waterhole at a distinct bend in the creek. Just after this we reached a rock slab overlooking the creek before descending and crossing the rocky bed of a small creek running into Christmas Creek. We continued upstream passing various small waterfalls. It is not long after passing the last waterfall that we came across the distinct orange marker on the side of a very large fallen log pointing in the direction of the Stinson Wreck. We continued past this turnoff and within a 2 minute walk we came to Westray’s Grave. At this point we took a 10 minute break and then headed back to the orange marker and proceeded up the trail indicated to the Wreck.

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At the start from the large fallen log the trail was quite steep but gradually eased off as we reached the base of the cliff line. At this point we had to contour around to the right of the cliff and we had to pass boggy section of ground. Soon after this we had a rather sharp steep walk/climb up to the base of another cliff. We had to scramble to the left along a short but narrow ledge and climb a few more meters to the top of a distinct ridge. Once on top of the ridge we followed the trail gently uphill to the campsite just prior to the wreck. It is at this site that the start of a short track leads us down tho the wreck. After viewing the head stones/ plaques and the one remaining piece of the wreck, everyone headed back up to the camp site for a quick bite and then we retraced our steps back to the start of the walk and to our vehicles. I wish to thank everyone who came for putting in such a great effort. Thanks. Steve Daisy Hill State Forest D/W 8th July Just 25 km south-east of Brisbane's city centre is Daisy Hill State Forest. Daisy Hill is within easy access of anyone in the Brisbane area. It is 435 hectares one of the smallest State Forests in the greater Brisbane region. A perfect place to try out the Club's "Introductory Walk". On Sunday 8th July a small group of new and experienced walkers met in the Upper Day Use Area. The early morning was cool and after a brisk walk down the road the walkers began to warm their bones. At the entrance to the walk we had a brief discussion, checked the trail guide and commenced down the track. With a few energetic walkers in front the group missed the turn and soon it was obvious that we had actually converged on to the "Tree Discovery Trail" walk. A quick right and then left and we were on the correct trail.

Cania Gorge National Park 4-11th August We left the morning drizzle behind as 10 campers drove to Cania Gorge Tourist Park, north of Monto. Over the next 6 days of perfect weather, clear blue skies, some cold nights, (-4 deg one morning), we saw some magnificent views. We viewed Lake Cania which is popular with fishermen, visited the dam, passed through eucalypt and vine forests, climbed high along the cliff edge of the gorge, explored many sandstone caves and visited old gold mines. We also walked dry creek beds. Where were those springs? We had a steep climb up Castle Mtn where we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the lake and dam. Thankyou to Steve who led these walks with the help of Barry and advice from Park Ranger, Neil. Steve and Barry's map reading and compass skills saw us safely back to the camp each day where we relaxed by the campfire with some local uninvited guests i.e. kangaroos and bettongs. The wildlife and bird life is abundant here. Although we didn't see any platypus this time, we did see a couple of echidnas snoozing beside the walking track. We managed to fit in a game or two of tennis as well, with Suzanne and Marilyn being the champion players. As the brochure states "your first visit will not be your last." I am sure Steve, Barry, Janet, Mal, Marilyn, Suzanne, Ray, John, Stan and myself would all agree. Thank you to all for a memorable trip. We had fun. PS. The morning sunrise over the dam and on the gorge cliffs is not to be missed!! Lynn Gap Creek Falls D/W 11th August

The "Stringybark Trail" is a 5.7 km walk and is clearly marked (for the observant) with "green" coloured arrows. The track is mainly an unsealed forest road with slight undulations. In some parts the trails are shared by walkers, horse riders and cyclists. Some of the more energetic walkers expressed a desire to lengthen the walk. So after a quick chat and show of hands 9 diehards turned off onto the "Spotted Gum Trail". This trail is a 4km circuit and joins back again onto the "Stringybark Trail". The smaller group continued down the trail taking in the tranquil surrounds. The day was very pleasant and the track manageable. Very soon we hit the fence line and trudged up the slope. The area has a diverse eucalypt forest which includes species such as the spotted gum, grey gum, ironbark and tallow wood. Unfortunately no koalas were sighted. Just as we were coming into the home stretch one of the experienced walkers (Michael W) caught up with us and passed on by. Another slope challenged our stamina. Shortly afterwards we could smell the enticing aroma of cooked sausages on the BBQ. A few more steps and we were back at the Upper Day use Area. Quick as a flash Trevor Cox appropriated a table with BBQ and had the billy on the boil. The main group arrived a little later and confessed that they had experienced a "deja vu". In other words "this track looks familiar" AGAIN. A few snags on the BBQ, sandwiches or salad and before we knew it the group began to disperse. The remaining few decided to take a wander down to the Koala Centre. The view from the observation tower was panoramic but again not a koala in sight. Angela, the ranger gave a very interesting talk on koalas. "Buddy" and "Anna" the resident koalas seemed quite content and oblivious to the crowd.

There were nine of us on this walk at Cunningham’s Gap. After a short walk uphill to the Fassifern Valley Lookout, we made our way down a graded track towards the falls. Along the way there were magnificent views of Mt Cordeaux and the beginning of the Ramparts. The woodland also changed from rainforest to sclerophyll with a few grass trees as we descended from 800 meters in height to 450 meters. We had our meal breaks beside the falls and a few of us did some exploring of the area. After checking out an area that most of us had not done before, we made our way back. Thanks to all who came and enjoyed the day.

Richard

Boondall Wetlands D/W 4th August On Saturday 4th August a small group (10) gathered at the Visitor Information Centre at Boondall Wetlands despite the possibility of wet weather. (The Centre was established in March 1996 and offers informative interpretive displays which allow the visitor to discover for themselves the many natural wonders of the wetlands.) A quick tour of the Centre, introductions, a brief overview of the planned walk and the group was off on the bikeway/walkway to Nudgee Beach.

Bob & I would like to thank all who participated in the walk and hope to see you again soon.

An easy 4.2km walk on bitumen pathway and boardwalk. The group found a very dead snake (tree?), saw a few birds, planes taking off, very interesting totem poles and clearing skies. Apparently mosquitoes are quite prevalent in the area but not on this trip.

P.S. We finally spotted a koala swaying gently in the breeze wedged in a branch of one of the tallest trees at the Upper Day Use Area. Thanks to the observant bus crowd. Danuta

In no time at all we reached Nudgee Road and took a "brunch" break. We watched the fishermen competing with the birds and then had a slow uneventful saunter back to the Centre.

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When approached the volunteers were more than happy to take the group around the "Billai Dhagun" track (2km) which winds through the forests and salt marshes to the bird hide on Nundah Creek.

joining us for the day. We separated into 2 groups, one headed for Binna Burra with Barbara and the other to O'Reillys with Paul. The fine weather meant a dry track and good views from all the lookouts.

Along this track there are approximately 9 cast aluminium totems symbolising aspects of Aboriginal culture in Boondall Wetlands. The totems include food plants and animals, tools, camp life and the Dreaming, and each totem is placed near a related site, plant or animal habitat.

The Binna Burra group made the lunch stop at Mt Merino at noon and ate lunch while talking of Christmas in far off lands and enjoying the view over Mt Warning. Just as we headed back down the track, the O'Reillys group arrived for lunch. We swapped car keys and had a chat before heading off. Both groups reached their cars by 4pm and met up again at Canungra. Thanks to the walkers who joined us for their great company, it was a very enjoyable walk. Barbara Makepeace

My favourite was "Du-wir". Brown quail (du-wir) live in the grass and were a favourite food. Women and children would beat the grass to flush out the birds and the men would bring them down with small hunting boomerangs.

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Did you know: - The Boondall Wetlands is an internationally important "Ramsar" and migratory wading bird site. The Wetlands have ties with the Yatsu-higata Wetlands of Tokyo Bay as a part of the East Asian-Australasian Shorebird Reserve Network. You can access the Boondall Wetlands Website for a range of topics at http://brisbane-stores.powerup.com.au A very pleasant morning. Bob and I would like to thank all who spent the morning with us. Lincoln Wreck via Teviot’s Gap D/W

Books The following books are available from the Naturally Queensland Information Centre, 160 Ann Street, Brisbane. (ph 3227 8197) Heritage Trails of the Great South East An easy to use guide covering an area extending from Coolangatta to the Cooloola Coast and westward to the Darling Downs.

19th August

This guide presents almost 600 historic places within easy reach of Brisbane. Includes recent and historic photos and with colour maps to plan your travel. Special offer: $19.95 (RRP $27.45) Camping in Queensland Lists more than 270 spots where you can camp on public lands, national parks, state forests, and reserves next to lakes and reservoirs.

Eight of us set off early in the morning as we expected a long day ahead. Having never been to the Lincoln wreck from Teviot’s Gap before this was a good opportunity to test out the new GPS. We made our way slowly up Mt Superbus with a morning break at the turn off to Lizard Point. Finally, after 2 ½ hours made it to the rock cairn and began the walk across the top of Mt Superbus. There were many possible tracks to take and the GPS came in handy to keep us on the correct path. Nearing the wreck we came to a fairly well defined track which led us to the cleared area above the crash site. After exploring the remains of the Lincoln bomber we had lunch and read a little about the plane’s sad history.

Most listed camping areas are lowcost, and many put you in the heart of our best scenery and recreational opportunities. RRP $6.95

Take a Walk in Queensland's National Parks - Southern Zone

Going back was quicker as we were now familiar with the general direction to take.

Contains comprehensive details covering history, major features, flora and fauna for 45 parks.

A quick check back at the rock cairn with the GPS told me this was not the true summit of Mt Superbus. The summit was actually about 650 meters away. This, though, would have to wait for another day. Richard Binna Burra To O'Reillys D/W

There are more than 1000kms of walking trails, trails and routes described by John & Lyn Daly.

25th August

RRP $21.95

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Did you know?

Saturday dawned a beautiful fine clear day for 21 walkers who met at Canungra at 8am. The normal sleepy Canungra was transformed as it was Show Day. As we sipped hot chocolate in the cool morning air, we watched as hundreds of horse trailers arrived from every direction. We had 10 new walkers, 3 from overseas (Sweden and England)

If you need to use your mobile phone for emergencies "112" is the only number you can call without a SIM card. It ignores your carrier, and searches for the strongest signal in your area. If there is any signal, however weak and regardless of carrier, it will take your call and put you through to emergency services. When you use 000 for emergency, your phone number is displayed at the call center (even if you have line-block or a silent number). This means that the emergency services can call you back if necessary, and of course with a land-line phone it helps to locate you.

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