footprints - Border Bushwalking Club

FOOTPRINTS
November 2014
Newsletter of the Border Bushwalking Club Inc.
affiliated with Bushwalking Victoria
COMMITTEE
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Warwick McLachlan
Paul Schirmer
Brett Coster
Tim Weyland
02 60251323
president@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
vicepres@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
secretary@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
treasurer@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
General Committee:
David Graf, Sandy Kaitler, Rosemary McConnell, Liz Nilbett, Ira Robinson
Pizza and photos CLUB NIGHT
Tuesday 4th November at 7:00pm
Yes fellow walkers, you read right. It's an informal pizza night. You are invited to send Warwick up to 3 hiking photos
that you would like to share and even talk about. Pizza, wine and soft drinks supplied. If you would like to bring
something extra to share, that's fine too.
Gonna leave
any popcorn
for me ladies?
Inspired!
Gotta go
there!
I'm just
here for
the food!
That's me
in that
photo!
WELCOME
We extend a warm welcome to the
following new member :
Samantha Bosland
We trust that you will enjoy all that the
Club and its members have to offer.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO FOOTPRINTS.
Your contributions are keenly sought. If you have been on
a club trip please send a short, or indeed long, report to the
editor. Members love reading about the club outings. No
talent required! Photos of outings are also greatly
appreciated. Send to: enilbett@gmail.com
Deadline for next Footprints is 18/11/14
PRESIDENT'S REPORT.
Bunting from the Presidential Parade
Pizza, pop and passion
Elsewhere is the promotion for the November meeting wherein the (currently) 6 people will have 5 or so minutes to explain
the significance of the 3 pictures they have sent to me. The unpredictability of bushwalking and outdoor activity lends itself
to memorable moments and hopefully the pictures have captured a time, place and event that resonates with the presenter
and will be enjoyed by the audience. Keep the entries coming and enjoy the process of sharing your passion.
Spring time awakenings
I do not suggest our membership needs a stimulus drug to release them from a catatonic state as the 1990 movie that I’m
referencing suggests. It’s just that it is spring and is obvious to everyone who doesn’t live in an igloo or a deep cave that the
birds are twittering, the grass is growing and the creeks and mountains have a comehither look about them. The 17+ people
who witnessed the darkening light on Cindy’s moon walk shows we can put aside superstitions, fear of werewolves etc and
have night time activity as well. So, now, right now is the right time to stir the body, uncreak the bones, do a cat stretch,
pack a cut lunch, visit the sunshine on these gorgeous Spring days and come walking with the Club.
Environment
Connected to that theme is the bunch of activities be found in the Ecoportal website
http://www.ecoportal.net.au/ This promotes sustainable living in Albury Wodonga north-east Victoria and southern New
South Wales and I did not know of it until a day or 2 ago. Pauline McLaughlin our publicity officer publishes elements of our
walks on the site but there’s also other activities like shape shifting (presumably not connected with the TV series True
Blood) , Finding Nanno (presumably to ensure he/she returns home for dinner) and Spot the Night Life on 30 October (a
Dean Street poke in the savoury clubs and hotels pulsing with young things?). Albury Wodonga is a live place and I am
pleased to promote Ecoportal and pleased this club contributes to it.
Grey beards and Blue Rinse
During the recent bike ride from Adelaide to Renmark with Bike SA, conversations with members of other bushwalking clubs
(Canberra, Melbourne) demonstrated the issues of retiring leaders and ageing members is not confined to our Border Club.
It is unhelpful to generalise but hey, everybody does it, so here goes. Bushwalking is not a mainstream activity for younger
folk and, as I have written previously, like attracts like and if there isn’t a core of younger folk in the club, being leading and
active, prospective younger members will shy from the possible infection of white hair and sagging hips that comes from
standing close to old people. Secondly, ageing leaders want to smell the roses rather than walkers in their care; most of our
leaders have led extensively in their prime and past it and so, using a 1972 Gough Whitlam jingle, it’s time to call time.
Where does that leave the club? Diminishing leader numbers and a veedr towards oh so gentle activities (with the notable
exceptions of Paul Schirmer and Bill Krautz’s multi-day walks which are reminiscent of the golden days when men and
women of fitness and finesse strode out from the Club into Southeast Australia, New Zealand and Tassie.
There is no obvious answer to this issue apart from paying professional guides to run us round. The club has existed since
1978 when its 40 or so members were all under 40 more or less. But as long as there is bush, snow, creeks and mountains I
would like to think the club will continue to send groups out there, safely, therapeutically and enjoyably to take in this
beautiful area. So, hands up, New leaders, your turn has come round.
Let’s hear it for the little people
It is bushwalking lore that the amount comfortably carryable on the back is proportionate to the dry weight of the walker.
The comfortable maximum is said to lie somewhere between 1/4 and a 1/3 of body weight. But the University of Kansas
State (arguably a font of backpacking knowledge) says that small people can carry a larger proportion comfortably than
bigger folk simply because the bigger thou art the harder it is to move all that flub and muscle. Nice theory Professor O’Shea.
Sure gazelles are sprightly and dinosaurs plod but I would put my money on a dinosaur ride if I wanted to get to camp by
night fall. Which category do you fall into? ( I acknowledge the flawed logic but I like the image).
Norwegian Wood
Most people in the world love adventure, and would love to do it, but a lot of people don't have the time because they are
trapped in this 'normal' life ... It's an important thing for the human mind to explore, whether it's in your home community or
the north pole or whatever, it's exciting, it's what keeps us growing." Quote from a Norwegian duo who wintered by the
North Sea in a DIY hut made from driftwood and board surfed with the seals.
For love of country
From SMH Traveller – “Walking is good," said Bill Neidjie, Aboriginal elder also known as "Kakadu man"who died in 2002,
"you follow track ... you sleep, wake in the morning to birds. You feel country."
How to travel in the parallel universe
“If I had asked people what they wanted, they would have said faster horses” – Henry Ford, Ford Motor Co..
Page 2
TRIP REPORTS
The twelve sights of Livingston National Park.
Please hum to the tune of the 12 Days of Christmas!
On the 27th of September bushwalking gave to me...
A snake slithering into the bush.
On the 27th of September bushwalking gave to me...
Two shy echidnas and a snake slithering into the bush.
On the ...(you can work out all these bits by now)
Three bouncing 'roos ...
Four weary walkers
Five walking trails
Six hours of walking
Seven arms a pumping
Eight boots a tramping
Nine flowers blooming
Ten seconds resting
Eleven facts on bush lore
Twelve hours of sunshine
...and a snake slithering into the bush.
Walkers who completed this walk last year will be pleased to know that no magpies were harmed
in the writing of this song. Bernadette Cromarty.
Mt. Beauty 26th September 2014.
This walk continues to attract walkers despite being on the program many times. Twelve of us met at ‘the usual
place’ in Mt Beauty, pausing to gaze at our destination, the summit of Mt Beauty itself (670 m) towering above the
town. After leaving the cars at the end of the walk, in the big car park near the Svarmisk aparments, we crossed the
road and set off along the Survey Track through the forest, pausing to admire the snow-clad summit of Mt Bogong
and listen to the gurgling of the East Kiewa River far below us in the valley. Many wildflowers were out, including an
orchid. After pausing at Cranky Charlie’s for morning tea we started the ascent of Mt Beauty itself. The climb was
steep enough to work up an appetite but with several pauses for breath it did not exhaust us. The tracks on the
final part of the ascent are quite narrow and there are several to choose from, but basically, just go up. A metal
contraption used as the starting gate for mountain bike races marks the flattish summit, the trig point having fallen
down long ago. From there it was a short walk to the lunch spot overlooking the township and the Kiewa Valley.
The log to sit on was still there and after a photo call we managed to squeeze all 12 of us onto it. From there it was
a downhill stroll to the start of the Gorge Track, which leads down to where the West Kiewa River cuts through a
deep gorge. We lined up for photos on the magnificent suspension bridge but decided against a swim in the icy and
fast-flowing waters. From there we made our way back to the cars, relaxed, refreshed and ready to face the drive
home.
This is an excellent walk in any season except high summer. It has plenty of variety, all on track and not too
demanding. It is about 15 km in all. Eileen Clark
Page 3
Mt Nelse and Edmonsons Hut 4th October 2014.
This was early in the season for a High Plains walk, particularly after a winter of very good snowfalls, but there were
only a few snow patches left on Mt Bogong as we drove up, and the sun was already warm. The drive came to a
screeching halt when I realised the barrier was still down across the Rocky Valley dam wall. Its yellow paint had
faded to match the bitumen and it was hard to see, so after some nifty reversing we parked and five of us set off
across the dam wall on foot. We wrote our itinerary between patches of mould in the Intentions Book, and started
the ascent of Heathy Spur. It wasn’t long before we hit snow across the track, a patch about 20 m wide and still
hard enough to walk on without sinking through. This set the pattern for the next hour or so; several snow patches
interspersed with a wet track that in places was more like a little creek. However, the sun was shining and the air
clear, if a little breezy, so we kept on. We paused for morning tea at the highest point on the spur and by then we
could see lots of snow on the sheltered slopes around us.
After suitable refreshments, we headed for the Big River Fire Track and progressed slowly up to the Mt Nelse
turnoff, taking time to admire the views all around, and then made our way across to the trig point marking the
summit. The breeze was, by now, more of a wind but the views were spectacular. Looking north-east we could see
Kosciuszko and the Main Range cloaked in a mantle of snow, while in the opposite direction Mt McKay and
Feathertop stood like a pair of up-ended Neenish tarts, their southern slopes glistening white with snow while the
north facing slopes were dark and snowless. In between and closer to us were Mt Bogong and Spion Kopje, still with
a heavy cover of snow on the southern slopes.
Eventually the wind drove us down and we headed cross-country to Edmonsons Hut for a well-earned lunch. We
decided to return via Watchbed Creek and take the opportunity to walk along the Bogong High Plains Road while it
was closed to traffic. Then it was across the dam wall and back to the start, after an interesting and exhilarating
walk. Eileen Clark
IT'S
Page 4
IT'S THE JOURNEY, NOT THE DESTINATION...
In part exploratory, with the intended final destination unattained on this occasion, this overnight hike provided
unexpected bonuses: a delightful camping spot beside a beautiful mountain stream and a hike to the top of Mt. Typo. Mt.
Typo provided us with great views over the surrounding landscape. Oh yeah, the company was pretty good too. A detour
to Paradise Falls on the way home was an added bonus. Thanks Bill. Brad Nilbett.
Mt. Typo
Page 5
FULL MOON WALK MAHERS HILL.
What a great place and a great way to witness the total lunar eclipse. Lots of us headed up Mahers Hill, starting in bright
full moonlight and I for one am glad it became dark...it meant I couldn't see how big the bull I walked past was. The moon
was an awesome sight as it became a reddish color reminding me of Mars. Some great photos were taken and it was fun
sitting on a tarp under the moon sharing food and drinks as we witnessed this phenomenon. Thanks Cindy for organising
it. Ed.
Reflection of moon on Hume Weir.
YOUNG'S HUT RESTORATION OCTOBER 17-20.
DRAGGING overflowing wheelbarrows across the High Plains close to midnight is a different way to start the
weekend. But that was what hut restoration enthusiasts did to start their effort at giving Youngs Hut on the
Bogong High Plains a makeover. The hut, about five kilometres south of pole 333 on the High Plains above Falls
Creek, has been cared for by the BBC for decades and club member Ron Hammond organised this latest
restoration effort. I tagged along for the weekend and we walked from Pretty Valley pondage to the hut, via the
landmark pole 333, on the Friday afternoon. We turned around and started walking back to 333 about 8pm to
help a group of hut restoration enthusiasts from the Wangaratta area bring their gear to the hut.
Nothing could have prepared us for what happened next.
As we approached pole 333, we saw four bright lights dancing in the dark night ahead of us. It was like you
would imagine aliens or the Min Min lights to look like. It was strange.
But it was not ET, it was the eight volunteer hut workers carrying full packs and bright headlights, pushing two
wheelbarrows. In the dark and cold of the night.
It was not really pushing, but more pulling. The barrows were so loaded up (heavy power tools filled the tray and
ladders and an insulation roll were strapped on top) and the path was so rough and hard to see that two people
were out front hauling the barrows on ropes.
A third person guided the barrow from behind, by following instructions yelled from a fourth person out front
looking for the best path.
It was a truly surreal experience and we took turns at being the back barrow person, the hardest job.
But we made it to the hut about 11.30pm and the next day began the renovation. Others walked in early to help.
The hut restoration group was led by Wangaratta builder Lochie Gales. His team consisted of Rob, Graham
(Lochie’s brother), David (brother of BBC vice-president Paul Schirmer, who also attended), Ian, Trevor and
Tony. Lochie is also a member of the Wangaratta Out and About Club.
From the BBC, Bill Krautz, partner Vera and Eileen Clark helped out.
Ron’s family was right into it, with his daughter Alex and her fiancee Tim also helping.
The main task for the weekend was replacing the exterior weatherboards, but the place also got a general cleanup and repair.
The blue gum boards, supplied by the Victorian High Country Huts Association and moved to the site over
winter by Parks Victoria, were used to re clad three sides of the hut. The boards at the front have been protected
by the veranda so are in better condition.
It was a production line with groups taking off the boards, laying insulation then cutting and nailing new boards.
The exterior was then painted with linseed oil, taking the number of coats to three, as the boards were oiled
twice before going to the hut.
The hut also got an internal clean, the stove got a new seal and a heap of rubbish was taken away.
The hut looks like new, but the group was about 10 boards short, so will return in coming months to finish the
area around the chimney.
The hut looks great - take a wander out and have a look.
Page 6
The group really knew their stuff and worked hard, having already done Wallace, Roper and Edmondson huts
with others to follow.
There is something very satisfying about helping to give an historic hut decades of extra life, but seeing a latenight High Country wheelbarrow invasion is something else.
It will take a lot to top that!
- Michael Lowe (I lived in Albury and was a BBC member for eight years from 1994. I recently rejoined the club
and come across from my new home in Launceston for club events)
Before
e
Now let's get
Ron home.
After.
What an amazing job! Well done team! Awesome!
Page 7
NOTICES
Leaders - Emergency Contact Person (ECP).
Leaders are reminded to inform their participants who the ECP for their event is and provide them with relevant contact
details at the time of booking into a walk.
EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS FORM
You never know when you are going to be in trouble and for this reason all Border Bushwalking Club
members are asked to please make sure that they have a completed ‘Emergency Contact Details’
form with them in an external pocket of their pack. A copy of the form can be downloaded from the
BBC website, printed, filled in and carried in an external pocket (either in a small zip lock bag or an
old film canister) at all times.
Photo credits this issue:
Bob Ronald
Graham Gales
Brad Nilbett
LEADERS WANTED
No experience necessary.
Please contact Cindy Marsh who will
assist you with all aspects involved.
activities@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
Next Committee meeting is Tuesday, 11th November. If
you have any matters you wish to be discussed please
contact a Committee member. Activities for the next
Footprints to the Activities Coordinator
activities@borderbushwalkingclub.com.au
FIRST AID KITS
Leaders are reminded to take first aid kits
on all activities. The club has a number
for use. Contact David Graf.
GEAR HIRE
Members are advised that the Club
equipment we have available for hire is
located at...
‘Adventure Gear
Albury’
479 Dean Street, Albury
phone : 02 6021 6200
website :
www.adventuregearonline.com.au
THANK YOU
The Committee wishes to acknowledge and
thank Frances Dryden at Java@Yack,
Yackandandah, for the printing of the monthly
edition of Footprints.
We appreciate the ongoing support.
Page 8
SAVE THE DATE
BBC CHRISTMAS
PARTY
TUESDAY
DECEMBER 2ND
M o r e i n fo n e x t
newsletter.
Disclaimer
All statements and opinions expressed in articles published in ‘Footprints’
are those of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent the
views of the Editor, the Committee or members of the Border Bushwalking
Club
Activities on the website... don't
forget to keep an eye on our
website for upcoming activities.
New processes mean some activities put
on at short notice don't make it in to the
newsletter.
WANT TO TRY ROGAINING?
The Victorian Rogaining Association is holding its final event for 2014 on 15 th November, in the Warby Ranges.
A Rogaine can be considered as an acronym for Rugged Outdoor Group Activity Involving Navigation and
Endurance! So it is a perfect activity for Border bushwalkers who are looking for a new challenge.
The November event is a six hour bush navigation challenge, starting at 11am, finishing at 5pm.
Checkpoints are scattered around the park, and the goal is to find as many checkpoints as you can within
the time limit. There is no obligation to keep walking for six hours. You get 2 hours before the start to plan
your walk, and at the end of the event you get a lovely hearty meal included to reward your efforts. Many
beginner or family groups will go out for a few hours, then come back to the Hash House to have an early
snack.
Teams consist of two to five people of any age or gender. Help is available to novice teams to get them
started. Families are welcome to enter. This can be a great way to introduce kids to bush navigation as you
can treat it as a treasure hunt and there is lots to eat at the finish!
More information and entry details are available at the VRA website http://vra.rogaine.asn.au
If you would like to have a go at rogaining and dont have a team mate, the VRA has a Partner Finding
Service, see http://vra.rogaine.asn.au/resources/partner-finding-service.html
Or ring BBC member, Helen Robinson on 0450588424 who may be able to link you up with someone local
who also wants to have a go.
If you want to explore some of Victoria's amazing natural landscapes, you've come to the right place.
Our outdoor adventure program has something for everyone. Watch the countryside roll by as you cycle our
amazing rail trails around Melbourne and way beyond. Pack your tent, pull on sturdy boots and trek Victoria's peaks.
We also have awesome ski trips. Jump into a kayak and explore our incredible marine national parks
. > Get your annual walks pass > Contact us
Or simply slip into a pair of comfy walking shoes and go for a gentle amble with friends. See you in the great
outdoors! Visitors can participate in up to three trips.
Cost: most events are $5 members or $9 non-members. But see activity for cost.
Membership: We encourage you to join as a member online or call VNPA on 03 9347 5188.
For more information go to http://vnpa.org.au/page/bushwalking-and-activities/events
Page 9
The Border Bushwalking Club has all its policies on our website. Sometimes a refresher or
indeed first read is worthwhile.
Below is a copy of the Participant's Policy and Responsibilities. Please take a few minutes to
familiarise yourself with them.
CANOEING AND KAYAKING
POLICY:
On canoeing and kayaking activities all participants must wear an approved Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
It is desirable for participants in such events to be able to swim at least 25 meters but it will be left to individuals
to assess whether they have appropriate swimming ability for that activity.
•
Groups of 6 vessels or more require at least 2 leaders (leader plus a co-leader) 1 leader to be in front
canoe and the other leader to be in the rear canoe of the group of 6
•
An upper limit of 24 participants in a river paddle is suggested. The ratio of leaders to paddlers is 1: 12 as
suggested in the safety guidelines on the Canoe Australia website.
•
Inexperienced paddlers are to be in a boat with an experienced paddler.
•
Children are the responsibility of an experienced adult accompanying them and children will paddle
with that adult. Only children aged 8 or over will be accepted on a paddle.
•
Canoe safety training groups are a separate activity and the maximum number of participants in a
training session is 15 – note that the odd number allows for observation from the bank or for a single canoe
rescue practice.
•
At each activity there will be co leaders depending on numbers and one main leader who will give
instructions on safety at beginning of each activity and should the need for a rescue occur will give instructions
to whole group during this time and be responsible for contacting appropriate persons.
•
Participants will be encouraged to take part in canoe safety training session with a qualified trainer if not
previously undertaken.
•
Trips are to be cancelled if river levels are deemed to be of an unsafe level. This decision will be made by
the main leader with assistance from any co-leaders and advice from a local river expert. Canoeing will only
take place in suitable weather. If required cancellation of the paddle will be made by mid afternoon with all
participants notified by 4pm if it is to be a late afternoon paddle.
•
A list of participants and their contact details is to be left with whoever the canoes/kayaks are hired from
A contact number for a BBC committee member will also be made available to this operator.
•
Each week participants will be made aware of the safety procedures as follows:
1 whistle blast - front canoes to turn and wait for rest of group
2 whistle blasts indicates that the group will pull in to the bank for a rest or swim etc
3 whistle blasts indicates that there is a paddler in the water and that rescue procedure will occur.
•
Rescue procedure - all boats to regroup. Process for rescue will be dependent on the type of rescue
required.
•
All participants will follow the main leader instructions during the rescue situation.
Page 10
•
All leaders will carry a waterproof bag which will contain the following: a mobile phone with the canoe
supplier’s number programmed into the memory; all leaders will carry a whistle, extra bottle of water,
sunscreen, and list of participants, a laminated river map.
The front paddler in each boat scouts all doubtful parts of the river and alerts the rear partner who then sets
the course dependent on the information received. The front boat is never passed and sets the pace.
Front boat, middle boat and end boat to be equipped with safety equipment -this will ensure that if a rescue is
necessary that there will be a quick response.
Safety equipment to be carried: tow ropes and floats, basic first aid kit, heat blanket(silver), mobile phone,
whistle, fresh drinking water, laminated map of area of paddle.
Each craft has a responsibility to the craft behind. It should not lose visual contact.
The party needs to be compact. Large formations should be sub-divided into independent groups with an
overall plan.
For overnight paddles, paddles on rivers and waterways other than the Murray at Albury– each proposed trip
must be assessed on an individual basis in regards to participant’s skills, water levels, safety equipment and
weather forecast.
Risk Management
The club will establish an incident response plan which may include
(a) The persons or positions with which a leader should communicate or report to, in the event of an emergency
response.
(b) The communication technology that is available and the steps to use it
(c) Emergency procedures to be followed
Qualifications of Leaders
The club will auspice and encourage canoe leaders to obtain the Canoe/Kayak Lifeguard award and a recognised
First Aid qualification
LEADER’S RESPONSIBILITIES
POLICY:
Leaders are to consider potential risks in regards to the activity they are planning, particularly risks specific to
activity, location and time of year and apply risk management principles to these risks. Leaders must notify all
participants of these risks and controls relating to these. Leaders must ensure the Trip Booking forms and Trip
Indemnity forms are completed.
To assist Leaders in risk management, BBC has developed guidelines for leaders and a risk identification list.
.
Page 11
Trashing the bush
Vandalism, illegal activities and rubbish dumping in the bush has long been a
problem, which seems to be
getting worse. Examples from the past year include:
In March, Boroondara Bushwalking Club walked the Tanglefoot Track and
encountered trail bike
riders who gained access by going bush around gates and posts.
In May, we had a report about people chopping down standing timber at
Federation Hut over
Easter to use for cooking in a hut stove.
In June, John Petheram, BTAC Field Officer for Ballarat and Central
Victoria, reported that the
main issues on walks around Ballarat are the creation of unauthorised tracks
and rubbish
dumping. The increasing numbers of 4WD drivers and trail bike riders in the bush are increasing
the incidence of track making and deepening.
The uncontrolled use by 4WDs and trail bikes in the wet periods is a big worry. This is leading to
serious loss of plant diversity and ground cover, greatly increased runoff and erosion into creeks
and is contributing to floods in local towns and villages. Another impact is that previously
pleasant
walks are now deep rutted.
On the Anglesea Heathland walk early this year, Boroondara Bushwalkers saw a spreading 3-4m
tall tree completely and deliberately encased with thick mud from a large, deep wheel rut that
must have
deliberately
widened and
deepened for
the purpose.
The baked
on mud on
trunk,
branches
and foliage
was severely
stressing the
tree.
Damage
done by
4WD going over a hump on a track
The August newsletter of Ben Cruachan Club
reported that members met a dozen trail bike riders
blazing a trail up the Avon River, blatantly riding past
signs excluding bikes.
On the Tracks, Issue 3, October 2014 Page 7 of 10
Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation newsletter
Trail bikers blazing a trail beside the Avon River. Source: Ben Crauchan Bushwalking Club newsletter, Iss
174, August 2014
A trail biker ignoring a No Bikes sign. Source: Ben Crauchan Bushwalking Club newsletter, Iss 174,
August 2014
In the past year, I have reported two gates pulled out of the ground with concrete footings still
attached, have walked past at least five abandoned cars (one full of bullet holes), walked on tracks
severely degraded by vehicles (they manage to get around exclusions humps) and took photos of
two lots of illegal rubbish dumping. A ranger in one state park advised that 25% of their
time/budget is spent cleaning up rubbish and repairing damage due to vandalism.
Rubbish dumped at Bunyip State park. Photo by Megan Major
On the Tracks, Issue 3, October 2014 Page 8 of 10
Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation newsletter
Walkers are not the only people concerned about illegal activity. In the October 2012 edition of Trackwatch,
the President of Four Wheel Drive Victoria expressed his concerns about the growing reports of hoon
behaviour and vandalism in the bush. Four Wheel Drive Victoria has a Dob In a Hoon form to report illegal
behaviour. It can be downloaded from http://www.fwdvictoria.org.au/default0.asp?First
Illegal rubbish dumping is obviously a drain on local government too. Warragul and Drouin Gazette of 9
September, 2014 reported that Baw Baw Shire is conducting patrols around the municipality to crack-down
Page 12
on illegal rubbish dumping. The continuing need to clear illegally dumped waste creates significant costs
for council. Offenders often dump rubbish in an area where they think they will not be seen Offenders
face fines ranging from $289 to more than $1700 under the Environment Protection Act. If a matter
proceeds to court, penalties can be up to $5760. Bass Coast Shire is trying to establish who dumped
rubbish. For now the rubbish is cordoned cordon off with tape marked Illegal Dumping Under
Investigation.
Rubbished dumped on the Bass Coast. Photo by Megan Major
What can we do?
Report illegal use of tracks, environmental damage or vandalism on the Bushwalking
Report Illegal Activity in the Bush Form available at
http://www.bushwalkingvictoria.org.au/forms.html
Report illegal 4WD activities on the Dob in a Hoon form available at
http://www.fwdvictoria.org.au/default0.asp?First.
Use the Snap Send Solve app available for smart phones to photograph and report rubbish and
vandalism. The app works out where you are, who manages incidents within that particular area
and then sends through relevant information such as location, incident type and any related image
to the appropriate authority. Snap Send Solve allows users to report incidents to every single
council in Australia as well as a growing list of new organisations. For further information go to
about Snap Send Solve go to the website at http://www.snapsendsolve.com/
To report illegal dumping which may have serious environmental impact contact EPA Victoria
1300 372 842.
Questions for BTAC
How much illegal activity is really going on in the bush? Are people reporting it? Are authorities doing
anything about the reported activity?
The BTAC committee would be very interested in your views on what we should do or should not do. For
example, by clearing large fallen trees off walking tracks are we enhancing illegal access for 4WD vehicles
and trail bikes?
This is your opportunity to express your opinions and get involved. I look forward to hearing from you.
Megan Major
BTAC Convener
tracks@bushwalkingvictoria.org.au
This article is from the Bushwalking Victoria newsletter, "On the Tracks" October 2014.
Mammal survey weekend Shelley Forest camp – 1 & 2 November
During the Melbourne Cup long weekend the Mammal Survey Group of Victoria will be visiting the northeast to study the
distribution and occurrence of mammals in the Shelley area, and members of the public to participate in a weekend of
activities around their visit.
The weekend will be based at Shelley Forest camp and is hosted by The Friends of Murray Mountain Parks with support
from the Country Action Grant Scheme. Planned activities include presentations by the Mammal Survey Group and Parks
Victoria, short walks including a frog identification walk and evening spotlight walks. There will be a barbecue, and also
camping options for visitors who wish to attend both days.
Contact: Andrew Kingerlee [0417 064 060] Friends of Murray Mountain Parks Inc
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What’s on
Join the 2014/2015 Falls Creek Hawkweed Volunteer Program
Native to Europe, Hawkweeds have recently become naturalised on mainland Australia. Hawkweeds are highly invasive
and spread quickly via runners and roots forming dense mats inhibiting and outcompeting native vegetation. Hawkweeds
can cause major environmental damage in alpine & sub-alpine areas, and are considered a significant threat to Victorian
Alps if not eradicated early.
Participating in volunteer surveys is a great way to help protect the Victorian Alps from this dangerous weed, as well as a
fantastic opportunity to enjoy the magnificent alpine environment during the green summer months.
Accommodation will be provided at Falls Creek Alpine Resort. Transport will be provided to and from
survey areas each day.
The dates for the 2014/2015 season are:
Session 1: Monday the 15th - Friday the 19th of December
Session 2: Saturday the 27th - Wednesday the 31st of December
Session 3: Monday the 5th - Friday the 9th of January
Session 4: Monday the 12th - Friday the 16th of January
Session 5: Monday the 19th - Friday the 23rd of January
To express your interest in the program please contact:
The Hawkweed Team, Parks Victoria
P: (03) 5754 4693 E: hawkweed@parks.vic.gov.au
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ACTIVITIES PROGRAM
LEADERS reserve the right to change the activity route on the day depending on prevailing conditions and altered
circumstances. A walk leader can refuse permission for any person to take part in his/her activity. A list of trip
participants must be prepared and the non-member fee (currently $5) should be collected before the start of the
trip. This is a requirement of our insurance policy. Without this list participants may not be covered by insurance.
EMERGENCY CONTACT PERSONS (ECPS): Leaders must leave trip details, including a list of participants and their
contact numbers with a family member, or if none available, with an ECP. In the event of a delay, the ECP will contact families and decide on the next course of action.
PARTICIPANTS (members and visitors) must check with the leader that their fitness and experience suit the walk.
Follow the leader’s instructions at all times. Pay own ambulance costs – insurance is recommended (but accidents
are rare).
BOOKINGS: If you intend participating in any of the activities listed below you are required to personally speak
to the Leader no later than the Wednesday prior to a day activity or 7 days prior to an overnight activity or unless
otherwise indicated. SMS bookings are not appropriate. Please be aware that leaders have the right to decide the
size of the group they will accept for their activities. Activities may become fully subscribed before the general
cut-off date. By contacting the leader early you may avoid missing out.
FIRST AID KITS: are to be taken by leaders on each walk.
BIVY BAGS: The club has bivy bags available for activities where extreme cold may be an issue.
GRADING
Grade 1
(Easy) Opportunity for large number of participates, including those with reduced ability to walk/cycle on wellmarked and even formed tracks. Formed tracks may have a few steps. Should not be steep. Suitable for beginners. Distance should not exceed about 10km.
Grade 2
(Easy-Medium) Easy activity, mostly on tracks of low gradient. Opportunity to walk/cycle easily in natu- ral
environments on well-marked tracks. Tracks should not be steep. Distance should not exceed about 15km.
Grade 3
(Medium) Medium activity with some hilly sections and/or rougher terrain. Opportunity to walk/cycle on defined and distinct tracks with some steep sections requiring a moderate level of fitness. Suitable for fit beginners. Distance should not exceed about 20km.
Grade 4
(Medium-Hard) Steeper, rougher terrain and may have off-track sections (no more than one quarter of the
walk) or a longer distance track walk. Opportunity to explore and discover relatively undisturbed natural
environments mostly along defined and distinct tracks. Tracks can be steep. There may be short sections of
rock scrambling involved. Leaders should have map reading abilities and/or ability to use a compass. Distance
depending on circumstances. Not suitable for most beginners.
Grade 5
(Hard) Off-track or difficult terrain. Opportunity for walkers with advanced outdoor knowledge and skills to
find their own way along often indistinct tracks or off track in remote locations. May include steep sections of
unmodified surfaces. There may be rock scrambling, creek walking and crossing involved. Distance should not
exceed 30km, but may be short and difficult. Not suitable for beginners.
Grade 6
(Very Hard) Strenuous off-track walk or very long distance. Opportunity for highly experienced walkers to exploratory remote and challenging natural areas without reliance on managed tracks. Terrain may be steep, uneven and no track. There may be rock scrambling, creek walking and crossing involved. Distance covered is
unlimited, but may be short and difficult. Only for experienced walkers and not suitable for beginners.
Exploratory Is unknown to leader and while every effort has been made to grade the activity appropriately,
there may be some unexpected aspects which may increase the difficulty of the walk.
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Be Inspired and Get active and Maybe a Little Wet!
The Big Walk (return)
Saturday 1st November
Grade 4
Bushwalking Social
Leader: Cindy Marsh Phone 0410 425 335
Bookings by Wednesday, October 29th
This walk starts from the Ranger’s station at the bottom of the mountain, to the chalet at the top of the gorge and
returns via the same track. It is a varied walk as you climb with great views with changing scenery and track
conditions. It is all on marked tracks.
Barry Mountains area, Victorian Alps
Sat 1 Nov - Tue 4 Nov
Organiser: Bushwalking Tracks and Conservation
(Melbourne Cup Weekend)
(BTAC ) event
We will place track markers and clear the track from Barry's Saddle to Mt St Bernard. There will be a base camp.
Volunteers from a 4WD club will assist with transport to and from the work sites. A Parks Victoria ranger will be in
attendance. Contact Charlie Ablitt at conservation@bushwalkingvictoria.org.au for more information and to register
your interest in joining this activity.
Canoeing Every Wednesday after Work
Wednesday 29th October
Canoeing
Wednesday 5th November
Leader: Sasho Dillow
Wednesday 12th November
Phone: 0418228924 after 7:00 pm
Wednesday 19th November
Or email: sashdow@hotmail.com
Wednesday 26th November
Minimum of 6 canoeist for this event to go ahead Wednesday 3rd December
Come and paddle with us from the Donkey Farm down to Noriuel Park. This will be the first after work canoeing trip
for the summer 2014-2015 .The cost will be $12 covers canoe hire and transport. We will meet at the Cumberoona
Wharf at Noriuel Park at 5:30 pm. Bring a change of clothes and let me know if you want to join us for the BBQ at $3
cost. Bring your own cutlery, plate and salad to share .The activity is suitable for experience and not inexperience
paddlers. The expected finish time for the canoe trip is approx. 7.30, followed by a BBQ finishing around 8.30.
Wheelers Hut
Saturday 8th to Sunday 9th Grade 3
Overnight Camping
November
Leader: Warwick McLachlan Phone (02) 60 251323
Bookings by Wednesday 3rd November
One of the classic overnight circuit walks the Club has done many times over the years . Commencing from Tooma
dam on Saturday morning, down the Dargals Fire Trial about 12 km, crossing the Tooma River to camp at Wheelers
hut on Saturday night. Sunday is a good climb onto the Snakey Plain Fire Trail a short 8 km back to the Khancoban –
Cabramurra road for a short car shuffle. An excellent Spring walk suitable for less experienced overnight walkers.
Kelly Country Rogaine
Saturday 15th November
See article about this activity on page 9 of Footprints.
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A walk from Pretty Valley
Sunday 16th November
Grade 4
Bushwalking
Leader: Bernadette Cromarty
Phone: 0419241687
Bookings by: Wednesday 12th November
This walk will start at Pretty Valley Pondage and walk along the Fainter Fire Track to Tawonga Huts. After a morning
tea break at the huts we will walk back to pole 333 and up Mt Jim. From here we will head down to Weston Hut and
back to 333. We will then go cross country for a short while heading back to Fainter Trail and our waiting cars. Most
of the walk is fairly flat with a few short steep pinches. The walk is about 22km in length.
Hotham to Falls Cross-Over Walk
Saturday 22nd November
Grade 4
Bushwalking
Leader: Deb Kahn
Phone: (02) 60 414 202 before 8pm
Co- Leader: David Graf
Bookings by: 19 November 2014
This walk is a great way to see the high plains. One group will start at each end and follow a clearly defined and well
maintained track that meanders, ascends, descends and fords a river. You’ll see Swindlers Spurr, Basalt Temple,
Dibbens and Derricks Huts, the Cobungra Gap, the mighty Cobungra River and views that stretch for kilometres.
Participants may provide a preference to walk Falls Creek to Hotham or vice versa.
Overnight to Fainters
Overnight camping/Bushwalking
Leader: Louise Evans
Phone: (02) 60 215048
Bookings by: Monday 1st December
Saturday 6th December to
Sunday 7th December
Grade 4
On track from Pretty Valley Pondage via Tawonga Huts to campsite near the Fainters. Off track to explore the
Fainters. Distance to campsite and return 20km. Extra few kms exploratory. Views and wildflowers.
The Huts walk
Bushwalking
Leader: Bernadette Cromarty Phone: 0419241687
Bookings by: Wednesday 10th December
This is 21km walk is on Mt Hotham and takes in the
Silver Brumby Hut (2006/2007), Spargo Hut
(1927/1928) and Derrick’s Hut (1967). There is a
small amount of road walking but the majority is in
well formed tracks including parts of the Cobungra
ditch, Golden Point Spur, Australian Alps track and
machinery spur.
Saturday 13th December
Grade 3
Overland Track, Tasmania
March 2015
Grade 4 (Med-Hard)
Bushwalking - 70+km
Leader: Cindy Marsh Phone 0410425335 (after 7pm)
Bookings by November 21st - Numbers limited to 8
Having recently completed the Overland Track. I consider it is an Australian iconic ‘must-do’ long-distance
bushwalk. Normally, it’s a 65 km, six-day trek through the heart of the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park,
part of the magnificent Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. However, with travel and a rest day, plus taking
in Pine Valley Hut, our trip length will be 9 nights- 10 days. The stunning scenery and the physical challenge of the
Overland Track have assured it a national and international reputation as one of the great wilderness bushwalks.
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Final date to book is to allow time to book and pay for track, accommodation and the Spirit of Tasmania. Contact
Cindy, prior to November, for an information sheet and also refer to the website click here.
Almost Full Moon on Feathertop
Saturday 27th December
Grade 4
Overnight Camping
Leader: Bernadette Cromarty
Phone: 0419241687
Monday 22nd December
This walk up Mt Feathertop has become an annual event each Summer. This year we are walking up the day
before the full moon to take advantage of the weekend. The walk starts at Harrietville and ascends via the
Bungalow Spur track. We walk to Federation Hut where we set up camp and eat our dinner. After that we walk
up Feathertop for the magnificent 360 degree views and to watch the sunset. Hopefully the fullest moon will
then guide us back to our waiting tents. After a leisurely pack up on the Sunday we walk back down the spur to
the ice-cream shop.
Members are encouraged to refer to the Border Bushwalking Club Website Calendar for any
amendments or new activities.
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