Canberra Cross Country Ski Club Inc.

Canberra Cross Country Ski Club Inc.
3 AUGUST
I S S U E 4, 2016
Off Piste
President’s Piece
Inside this issue:
Hi Everyone,
After some truly disgusting rain, winter has returned, and the cover has
miraculously been renewed. There have been some impressive winds
though, with a lodge at Charlottes Pass losing its roof last week. Some
lodges in Perisher were also damaged. With so much wind, I imagine the
back country has been a tough place to be recently.
President’s Piece
1-2
Cross Country Ski Club member
Profile—Peter Cunningham
2-3
Racing News
Light Weight Ski Touring
3
4-8
More snow is on the way next week. Meanwhile the snow at Spencer’s
Creek is officially deeper than it was at this time last year. Viva winter
2016!
The Telemark Turn—that’s why
you have free heals
Skiing Glaciers
10-11
August is our big month. Enjoy all the opportunities of the Perisher cross
country week, beginning on Saturday 6 August (the full program is at
http://www.perisherxcountry.org/).
(cont’d on Page 2)
Trip Report—Horse Camp Hut—
Saturday 16 July 2016
12-13
Alerts
1.
Social Club venue is now Hughes Community Centre (see page 26).
2.
Membership fees are now due.
3.
Social Club Meeting on Wednesday 17 August 2016 Juno Lineen will
present Into the Heart of the Himalayas
4.
Social Club Meeting on Wednesday 31 August 2016 Phillip Moses
will present Snow Shoe from Canberra to Kosciuszko.
Bruce, Adam and Robin at Broken
Dam Hut on a tour to Tabletop
Mountain lead by Monika Binder
on 17 July 2016.
Photo: Monika Binder
Trip Report—Mystery Tour—
Sunday 17 July 2016
9
14
Ski Photographs
15-17
Touring News & Program
18-21
Cross Country Skiing Lessons
2016
22
Kosciuszko Tour Information
23-24
Committee Contacts,
Gear for Hire
25
Social Meeting Program
26
President’s Piece
(cont’d from page 1)
We have our very own Kosciuszko
Tour on 20 August - volunteers
are needed. You can volunteer for
the drink stations, but you can
also race and volunteer to help
with registrations.
Cheers
Lachlan Kennedy
President
Canberra Cross Country Ski Club Member Profile—
Peter Cunningham
How long have you been a member of the Canberra Cross Country
Ski Club (CCCSC)?
Not sure, possibly 6 to 7 years.
How did you first become interested in cross country skiing?
When I was at uni I started bushwalking and saw it in books and films
and really wanted to try it. I didn’t get into though until 1979 when I was
living in Benalla and got to learn on the Bogong High Plains and other
parts of the Victorian Alps.
What do you enjoy most about cross country skiing?
I enjoy the snow and alpine environment plus the experience of moving
through it. Best of all is the friendliness and camaraderie that is present
in the sport.
What has been your biggest achievement in cross country skiing?
I have been fortunate to have been involved in the administration of cross
Club Discounts
When buying items from the
outdoor shops in Canberra and
Jindabyne it is worth mentioning
that you belong to the CCCSC as
you are likely to receive a
discount.
country skiing for about 25 years, the past 12 years being as the National
Cross Country chairman which involves managing the athlete pathway
from grass roots to Olympic level. Being involved has been a lot of fun
and hard work. My biggest achievement is probably working with Peter
Ward and Leslie Ludwig and others to extend the Perisher Nordic Shelter
in 2008, it took probably close to 15 years.
What has been your best experience in cross country skiing?
Many, my early touring and camping around the Bogong High Plains were
formative but I enjoyed skiing at Sovereign Lakes in Canada where I
went for the 2011 World Masters Championships.
Membership
Membership Subscriptions for the
2016 season are now due, and can be
paid on Register Now, via the Club
website.
Newsletter Contributions







Photos of trips, lessons, snow
country, meetings or social
events.
Reports on tours, lessons and
races and CCCSC events.
Letters to the editor.
Articles about XC skiing, snow
conditions or related topics.
Items to buy or sell.
Please send emails
to cccsceditor@gmail.com
The deadline for the next
newsletter is Fri 2 September
2016.
Page 2
Issue 4, 2016
Canberra Cross Country Ski Club Member Profile—Peter Cunningham (cont’d)
Racing News
What is you favourite destination for cross country skiing, and why?
Canberra Cross Country Ski Club Kosciuszko Tour 2016
I have enjoyed nearly everywhere I have skied in Australia and overseas but I still enjoy the Perisher Valley
the best because I know it so well.
What are the biggest changes you have seen occur since becoming a member of CCCSC?
I think the club is suffering the same problem as many
other clubs in that people are less willing to volunteer
for club positions or help which puts the workload back
onto a small core group of members.
Who do you most admire since joining the
CCCSC?
All the hardworking committee members but I admire
all he CCCSC members who help each year on the Nordic summer working bees. They are the backbone of
the program.
Do you belong to any other sporting/social clubs?
At present only the Canberra Alpine Club and Canberra
Rock Climbing Club.
What might (someone) be surprised to know
about you?
I have three grandsons.
In your opinion is cross country skiing growing or
waning?
Why do you think that is?
It has been waning for a number of years for a number
of reasons such as competition from other winter and
summer sports, people’s attitude to sports that are
perceived as hard. We are trying to address that in
many ways from the national cross country committee
to the recent formation of Perisher XC.
When you are not cross country skiing what are
you doing instead?
Rock climbing, which I have done for nearly forty
years, and swimming at the beach.
Saturday 20 August 2016
There are some big changes to announce for the
CCCSC Kosciuszko Tour (KT) in 2016!
The KT is a fun (citizen) ski race with entry open to
anyone who can do a decent snowplough turn and
has the fitness to cover approx. 20 km in under 4
hours. The club has been running the race for over
20 years.
New Date
The date of the 2016 KT has changed to Saturday
20 August – a week before the Kangaroo Hoppet.
This change is to avoid clashing with the New Zealand Merino Muster.
The more reliable snow conditions of mid-August
mean that we should be able to groom a bigger
and better course. We were hoping to reinstate
the original course from Thredbo to Perisher, but
unfortunately the costs and risks were too high.
However we are determined that participants will
get as close to Kosciuszko and the main range as
possible.
New Course
The new course will start at the top of Perisher
Gap, then heading along the Kosciuszko road to
the lookout at the top of Charlotte Pass - for a
great view of Australia’s highest peaks, before
turning around, crossing Johnnies plain and following the Porcupine trail back to finish at the Perisher
XC shelter. The course will be groomed for both
Classic and Freestyle (skating) techniques. There
will be snacks and prizes at the presentation after
the race.
Volunteers
As always we need as many keen volunteers as
possible to make the KT a success. If you can help
out, in any way, we would love to hear from you.
More information on volunteer roles will be in the
next newsletter and on the website.
Yours in racing
Jo-Anne Clancy
Off Piste
Page 3
Light weight ski touring – by Dave Drohan
An appropriate pack weight based on % of your body weight that considers alpine safety issues
I presented this topic at the ski club meeting in June, which included a show and tell. It was well received and I
was asked to write an article for members. Further thought on this subject has convinced me the topic should
be based around % of body weight, rather than just a max weight. I’ve been ski touring for near 40 years now,
both here and abroad, and my preference for multi day ski tours is to use the mountain huts for accommodation,
such as Grey Mare hut, as shown below.
Grey Mare Hut
Photo: Monika Binder
Inside Grey Mare Hut
Photo: Dave Drohan
I have been observing what happens when people carry too much gear, often on the context of wanting to be
safe. We all want a light pack when touring, but how much gear do we actually require? As pack weight increases, our ski cruising speed decreases and risk of injury increases.
Determining an acceptable pack weight
A search of internet articles on pack weight based on % of body weight, range from 30%, down to 16%, with
25% the most quoted. Military studies determined the 30% figure for a soldier and the 25% figure appears to
be from bushwalker observations i. The Norwegian DNT website provides a max winter pack weight of 14kg for
their guided ski tours, but no mention of % body weight.
My observations and discussions with my outdoor buddies suggest there are also tipping points that affect technique (thus speed), when we carry too much stuff. Based on this, I believe 15kg should be the preferred pack
weight limit for ski touring. Equating the 15kg tipping point figure, for an average 75kg man 1, his pack weight
would equal 20% of his body weight. The same 20% guideline applied to a 60kg woman 1 equates to 12kg pack
limit for her.
1
Within the normal weight range of Body Mass Index (BMI)
Page 4
Issue 4, 2016
Light weight ski touring – by Dave Drohan (cont’d from page 4)
The data points in the following graph are based on what I have been able to achieve and observations of others.
With a 10kg pack my best distance has been 40km in a day, but with a 15kg pack my distance drops to 30km.
Many years ago when I did ski with a heavy pack, I struggled to ski more than 15 km a day.
Ski speed v pack weight
(given good weather & snow conditions)
8
Male 75 kg: 20% of
body weight
equates to a 15kg
pack weight
tipping point
= 50 km / day
Advanced ability skier
Intermediate ability skier
6
Speed (km/hr)
= 40 km / day
= 30 km / day
= 30 km / day
4
= 25 km / day
= 20 km / day
=15 km / day
2
No glide = walking speed 2 or 3km/h
= 12 km / day
0
0
5
10
15
20
25
Pack weight (kg)
Keeping pack weight as light as possible can achieve at lot. For example; with a 5kg (day) pack, it is possible to
ski up to 50km in a day, given the right fitness, ability, snow and weather conditions. Even the day trip from
Munyang to Mt Jagungal & back with all its climbing is possible. Many people can ski even further, especially
those long distance Loppet races. Note; even at the tipping point, an advanced ability skier may be able to ski
10km further each day than the intermediate skier, due to improved technique (mainly good glide on rolling terrain). However, above the tipping point, you normally end up walking on skis, as you lose the ability to glide.
This graph indicates above the tipping point, distance is generally halved for both skiers with a 20kg pack compared to 15kg. I do admit my data is limited, so if ski tourers could log their distances and pack weights (and let
me know), we could refine this graph even further.
Safety considerations that do impact on pack weight
There are many internet articles about minimalist outdoor gear, but heading out into the winter alpine environment without the appropriate equipment would be foolhardy. The following safety considerations will impact on
your pack weight.
Weather & snow conditions
Decreasing weather conditions should increase the requirement to carry more clothing
Bad weather or snow can decrease speed to walking pace
Risk mitigation
Good wet weather gear, i.e.: Gortex jacket & over-pants
Extra appropriate clothing layers as required, i.e. thermals, fleece, etc
Norway plan for -20o temp, here -10o temp.
Impact on pack weight
Minimum 2kg; then for every 5oC decrease below 0, suggest add + 0.5kg
Off Piste
Page 5
Light weight ski touring – by Dave Drohan (cont’d from page 5)
Emergency knowledge & equipment
Poor mountain conditions or injury could occur at any time
Risk mitigation
Adequate first aid kit & knowledge
Mobile phone & PLB
Emergency shelter & knowledge
Snow shovel
Impact on pack weight
Basic equipment may be a flat rate
Hut touring : Approx 2 kg: shelter, sleeping bag & cooking gear
Tent touring : Approx 4 kg: snow tent, sleeping bag & cooking gear
Trench tarp
Photo: Dave Drohan
Jo-Anne Clancy snug
under her tarp on the
bivvy training trip.
Photo: Dave Drohan
I save weight by not carrying a snow tent for my multi day trips, but I do carry bivvy gear. A real bivvy event
can happen, but it is rare. I can dig a trench in about 30 minutes with my snow shovel and together with my
trench tarp, I am protected from wind and snow. The tarp has sleeves in it, so my skis & stocks provide adequate supporting structure. I ran a club trip a couple of years ago, so members could practice bivvying out (with
a hut close by, if required). A fire pit (if conditions permit) helps with cooking and warmth and is very sociable.
Page 6
Issue 4, 2016
Light weight ski touring – by Dave Drohan (cont’d from page 6)
Other variables to consider
Intended route
Longer route (more days requires more food / fuel?)
Risk mitigation
Suitable trip grading and consider escape routes
Suitable navigation equipment and skills
Inform a suitable person of trip intensions and return date
Carry some extra food in case of delay
Impact on pack weight
Food: 0.7 to 1 kg / day extra
Fuel: amount depends on if you have to melt snow or not
Huts usually have a good supply of timber nearby.
Ski touring pack weight breakdown
Achieving ski touring pack weights using the 15 and 12 kgs figures mentioned is possible. Typical elements that
make up my pack weight for self reliant trips for Norway (6 day) and here (3 day) are shown below. Clothing
worn along with steel edge skis, stocks & boots in Norway totalled 7.2kg, where as here, it was 6.5kg, as I often
wore an extra layer of clothing in Norway. Obviously in warmer conditions during the trip, pack weight may in-
Item
Norway
(kg)
Australia (kg)
Comment
Pack & bits on it
2.2
1.2
Norway: Larger pack required + Thermos required on my hip,
as an uninsulated bottle of water would freeze
Waxes
1.0
0.1
Norway: 4 grip waxes & 1 glide wax + small glide waxing iron +
climbing skins. For Oz: I only carry glide wax.
Sleeping gear
1.0
1.4
Norway: DNT provide bedding, so only emergency bag carried.
Oz: A good bag (-10o) is required
Cooking gear
0.6
0.4
Emergency & repair
gear
1.5
1.3
Wet weather gear
1.3
1.1
Spare clothing
Navigation
1.2
0.5
1.2
0.4
Other stuff
0.4
0.2
Extra travel bits
1.6
Scroggin for the trip
1.6
Lunch for the day
Emergency food
Food for 3 day trip (Oz)
0.3
0.2
2.4
Only need to carry food for the day
Such as freeze dry meal if you are caught out for the night
Includes a little extra food to allow for any delay
2 litres of water (/day)
2.0
2.0
750mls on my hip. 1250mls in my pack
15.3
11.7
Total pack weight
Norway: DNT provide all cooking gear, so my cooking gear was
for emergency use only. In Oz, I use the huts fire place for
cooking, so my small gas stove is for emergency use only
Tarp, shovel, ground sheet, mat, PLB, plus a bit more repair &
first aid gear carried in Norway
Norway required some extra cold items like a face mask & goggles
I tend to carry the same amount of spare clothing for hut use
Map case, paper maps, compass, GPS, etc
Toiletries, sun cream, etc. For Norway I carried a small clothes
line & some pegs,
For A to B trips: Travel docs, spare shoes + Smart device,
charger & adaptor
DNT do not provide attractive food items like chocolate. You
have to carry your own.
These weight breakdowns prove it is possible to carry an acceptable ski touring pack weight. Interestingly, if I
did not have to carry the extra 1.6kg of travel bits in Norway, I would be under the DNT pack limit of 14kg.
However, my recommendation that pack weight be based on 20% of body weight may be a challenge for some
smaller framed people wanting to ski over seas on self reliant trips or for touring with snow tents, unless you can
get a friend (or paid guide) to carry some of your gear.
Off Piste
Page 7
Light weight ski touring – by Dave Drohan (cont’d from page 7)
The DNT huts in Norway have well stocked food pantries, so you are only required to carry lunch for the day and
an emergency meal. However, scroggin and chocolate is not supplied by DNT, so this does need to be carried for
the entire trip. Here, you do have to carry all your food, unless to have prearranged a food dump somewhere.
DNT huts have adequate bedding, so I only carry a lighter sleeping bag (worn in conjunction with all my clothes),
if I ever had to survive a night out.
Multi day tours on main range here will also increase weight, as snow tents will usually be required and also
equipment to deal with ice and steeper conditions, such as steel edge skis, climbing skins, and an aluminium
snow shovel (instead of a plastic one).
For “Touring” trips in Australia, I use to recommend the traditional (long thin) skis with plastic edge, but with
climate change, we now have to deal with many more snow, rain, and then freeze events. So I now recommend
traditional steel edge skis (like the Fisher E99 or Madshus Voss) for the icy snow conditions that are more likely
to be encountered. I also recommend NNBC boots (like the Fisher or Rossignol BCX series) & bindings for
“Touring” trips.
For “Turning” trips on the main range, the short fat “paddle pop” skis with plastic boots & cable bindings have
their place. However, you should also consider appropriate NNBC boots & bindings fitted to short fat skis. This
will lessen the weight on your feet, compared to the heavy plastic boots and cable binding’s option. These types
of skis will provide greater control on steep descents. However, turning skis can not complete against touring
skis, when considering distance covered on rolling terrain. It always comes down to choosing the right tool for
the task you wish to complete.
Heavy pack consequences
A pack heaver than the 20% of your body weight recommendation may lead to a lack of enjoyment in ski touring
and could result in the following:

Loss of ski ability and glide

Become tired a lot quicker

Inability to ski the intended distance

Difficultly in getting up after a fall

More likely to fall, resulting in injury

Back injury

Sprains & strains or joint injury
Waivers: Even with the pack weights guidelines suggested, injury is still possible, it’s just less likely. Also; your
fitness, age and medical conditions will influence these figures. The 20% figure provided is for a skier who is
considered within normal body weight range, such as measured against the Body Mass Index.
Dave Drohan
References
i
bushwalkingnsw.org.au/clubsites/FAQ/FAQ_Packs.htm
www.backpacking.net/packwate.html
iii
https//english.dnt.no/guided tours
ii
See page 20 (Tour Program). Dave has a Tour on Saturday and Sunday 13-14 August as an introduction to Light Weight Ski Touring.
Page 8
Issue 4, 2016
The Telemark Turn - it’s why you have free heals!
I can’t remember my first successful telemark turn, which is remarkable, because it is a turn that really opened
up the mountains to me.
I can remember many days over the early seasons spent climbing up snowy glades and experimenting with telemark turns on the down hill run. Then we would clamber up hill and try again. Our experimenting was informed
by instruction books, and conversations with uninformed friends. Overall we weren’t very successful.
We didn’t know it, but our long narrow skis (in my case 210cms) and long poles did not work well on the down
hill snow. The skis sank deep into fresh snow, took longer to turn than an aircraft carrier, and the poles threw us
off balance in the turn. The narrow skis, intended for track skiing, were almost impossible to balance on during
the turn. No wonder that every photo from those days shows more aspiration than skill.
This all changed for me when I met a ski instructor -‘Hi, my names Stuart and I’m from Oregon’ - at Falls Creek.
In one two hour lesson the lifts he taught me to evenly weight both skis throughout linked turns, to initiate a
telemark turn and how to pull out. All without poles.
The next break through came with appearance of telescopic stocks, and then wider short (180 cm) skis with
side cut and plastic boots. The stocks can be shortened
so they don’t throw the skiier off balance during the turn.
The wide skis are more stable, turn quickly, and tend to
float on the top of fresh snow.
Since then my peak experiences on snow have been on
telemarks skis. I found I could ski safely through the
trees from Ramshead to Dead Horse Gap. One day, coming down from the Gungarten summit though the trees
to White’s River Hut, the teleskis floated on the top of
fresh powder snow, turning as easily as thought, while
my partner, on long skinnies, was mired in calf deep
snow.
I would gladly see everyone enjoying the power and
grace of a telemark turn. That is why I am leading a beginners telemark tour day on Sunday 14 August, starting
at 9.30 from the Perisher nordic shelter.
If you have ever wondered whether you could do a telemark turn, August 14 is the day to find out that you
can.
See Tour Program (page 20 for details).
Lachlan Kennedy
Latest Snowy Hydro Snow Depth Calculator comparison of
2016 to 2015 snow depth—
http://www.snowyhydro.com.au/waterenvironment/snowdepths-calculator/
30th July 2016
Off Piste
Page 9
Skiing Glaciers
I was asked about glacier skiing recently. It was an odd question because I am not a ski mountaineer. I don’t
like space under my ski bases.
But there are glaciers that can be skied safely by intermediate and advance skiers. Glaciers make scenic locations for skiing. Everywhere there are signs of geological drama caused by the ice grinding away at its rocky
pathway. The side walls of a glacial valley are usually steep and have hanging glaciers, ice fields and ice falls.
To ski a glacier you need to get to the top. You don’t want to ski up it. Helicopters or planes are one way to get
there. And in some places you can arrive at the top of a glacier by gondola.
Skiing the Tasman Glacier in New Zealand
The Tasman glacier in New Zealand is a classic glacier ski. The ski plane, and your guide, leaves from the Mt
Cook airfield and flies a party of skiers to one of the 2 saddles on the Tasman glacier. On the left side of the glacier’s valley flying is Mt Cook, and on the other side the Malte Brun Range. Coming down the flanks of Mt Cook is
the treacherous Hochstetter icefall. Definitely a place to admire from a safe distance.
After landing near the saddle,
the guide leads the ski party
the short distance to the saddle for morning tea, probing
for crevasses all the way. He
spreads a red checked table
cloth on the ground and you
have hot coffee and cake in a
place that should be rights
only belong to mountain
climbers. And while we sipped
our coffee, we watched mountain climbers on the face of
Ely de Beaumont, and listened
to informed commentary on
their progress from our guide.
Then it is skis on and away we
go. The gradient is gentle,
and we found it easy turning
on telemark skis in fresh
snow. We could keep up with
the alpine skiiers. Had it been
crusty I think we would have
been very unhappy though. If
it was icy I think the gradients
still would have been manageable.
Flying in - the glacial ski field is at the top of the valley on the
far right of the photo.
Photo: Lachlan Kennedy
On the way down the guide leads skiers through an ice cave. Blocks of blue ice on both sides and above you. I
come away feeling I had skied through the glacier.
A bit more descending, and you reach the landing area where the plane picks you up and takes you to the other
saddle for another ski down.
The trips only go when conditions are safe for flying, or I should say, landing. We had to wait 2 days at Mt Cook
before we could do this trip.
And of course, involving a guide and planes, it’s not going to be cheap, but it is a life changing experience.
If you are curious, start by looking at the gallery of photos at http://skithetasman.co.nz/ski-the-tasman-gallery/,
before you go to the price page.
Page 10
Issue 4, 2016
Skiing Glaciers
(cont’d from page 10)
The Mer de Glace (also known as the Vallee Blanche)
If you ever find yourself in Chamonix in winter, a classic ski for intermediate and advanced skiers is the Mer de
Glace (Sea of Ice). It is France’s largest glacier, and 200 metres deep in places, although skiers need only be
bothered with the surface conditions .
Before you decide to ski the Mer de Glace assess your skill level. It is not a good place to go with narrow touring
skis and boots. Further, you should be able to ski on any terrain and in any snow conditions. It is also important
to get the latest information on the snow conditions on the glacier and the weather forecast. Make a decision
about whether you need a guide. Good visibility allows you to ski safely and enjoy the dramatic mountain landscape.
Your Mer de Glace day would begin with a gondola ride from the centre of Chamonix to the Aiguille du Midi. It is
a 20 minute ride, and you achieve an altitude of 3,842 metres. Since you are skiing down, you only need a one
way ticket, which is currently 58 euros.
From the top it is a 17 kilometre, 2,800 kilometre descent to Chamonix. In terms of altitude that is somewhat
more than skiing from the summit of Kosciuczko to Bega.
The top of the Aiguille du Midi is a complex of tourist services, look outs, and rock tunnels, one of which is for
skiers. This tunnel leads a point over looking the nevee of the Mer de Glace. A shortish narrow snowy ridge
leads down to the nevee. For people scared of heights this is a knee knocking experience because as you side
step down the ridge you face a slope of lethal descent with only a flimsy safety rope to hold on to with one hand,
while your skis and poles are under your other arm. If it is icy you will enjoy having crampons.
And of course you are not alone. Other people are holding on to the hand rope and it sways and jerks. And the
person above you is going too fast, and the person below you is going too slowly.
By the time you have had enough you reach the nevee where you put your skis on. This you must do very carefully, because if you let them go here, you not only have to buy new skis, you also have to buy a return ticket on
the gondola.
The nevee is a huge gently sloping bowl. Skiing down is a wonderful experience. All around you are a gorgeous
array of alpine peaks, rocky knife edge ridges, mountain side snow and ice fields.
You leave the nevee as the glacier turns a corner to the skiers left, and the glacier starts its descent down the
valley. The surface of the glacier now becomes turbulent, and you will encounter seracs and crevasses. If there
is enough snow there probably will be a safe route though the ice fall. If you have a guide it is better, but you
can follow other people’s ski tracks. When we did it the snow was hard packed and the crevasses were open.
Skiers were avoiding the surface of the glacier, and instead traversing along the left hand side wall of the valley.
Once past the ice falls these tracks turned down a steep slope to the glacier surface.
Somewhere below the ice fall there is a refugio where you can get hot food and drinks (helicoptered food prices $$$). Then there is a short steepish descent to the surface of the glacier which for most of the remainder of the
route is a very gentle descent.
If there is not enough snow to ski all the way to Chamonix, you must exit the glacier on the left side of the valley
by climbing up a rock wall on steel ladders. (This may have changed due to glacial recession and I have heard
rumours of a chair lift now.) The ladder is safe if you put your skis on your pack, and if your movements are
planned and deliberate. But some people prefer to rope up, especially if there is a strong cross wind.
From the top of the ladder you walk to the top station of the funicular railway, which will take you back to
Chamonix, provided you have not missed the last train.
Lachlan Kennedy
Off Piste
Page 11
Trip Report – Horse Camp Hut – Saturday 16 July 2016
After reading that Horse Camp Hut had been completely rebuilt over the summer, I decided to lead a ski tour to
see it. With perfect weather, recent snowfalls and school holidays, I expected the traffic to be slow through
Jindabyne, and I wasn’t disappointed. We arrived at Jindabyne just before 8am and came to a stop on the dam
wall, with the traffic banked up from the township. It took us 50 minutes to drive the next 3 or 4 km to the second roundabout after which the traffic dissipated and we then had a good run to Guthega Power Station, arriving
around 9:30am.
Greg and Gale crossing a bridge on the
aquaduct track.
Photo: Alan Levy
On the tour were Sonja Weinberg, Nicole Havranek, Heather da Silva, Greg Lawrence, Penny Rossiter, Ken Moylan, Gale Funston and myself. We headed off from the carpark just after 10am and were able to ski all the way
from the power station. We climbed the zig zags to the top of the hill then followed the road through a section of
unburnt snowgums, then down the hill to the first creek crossing, then up another hill and across a small plain to
the hut. The weather was sunny and warm and the good snow cover made for pleasant skiing. We arrived at
Horse Camp Hut just before midday.
Horse Camp Hut
Photo: Alan Levy
Page 12
Issue 4, 2016
Trip Report — Horse Camp Hut - Saturday 16 July 2016
(cont’d from page 12)
The original hut had been dismantled and a replica built on the same site over the period Nov 15 to May 16. On
the outside the new hut looked identical to the original, but on the inside it was completely different with freshly
painted walls, a good fireplace and an immaculate wooden floor. We spent an hour sitting in the snow outside the
hut having lunch and chatting. There was also a small igloo behind the hut to explore.
We left just after 1pm and climbed the steep slope behind the hut up to the aqueduct track which contours along
the western side of the valley. This side of the valley had a thick covering of powder snow and the skiing along
this track was very enjoyable, although the two narrow bridges we had to cross were a bit nerve wracking, We
skiied back towards the top of the pipes, past a surge tank and followed the aqueduct track another kilometre
south towards Guthega where we stopped for afternoon tea with a view towards Mt Blue Cow. We then headed
back to the road and had a leg burning ski down the hill back to the power station. We were back at the cars at
3:30pm and stopped at the café next to Paddys in Jindabyne for coffee before heading home. Apart from the initial delay in Jindabyne, it was a great day with fresh powder snow, perfect weather, a good destination and good
group.
Alan Levy
Lunch at Horse Camp
Hut.
Photo: Alan Levy
Lunch outside Horse Camp Hut.
Photo: Alan Levy
Off Piste
Page 13
Trip Report — Mystery Ski Tour - Sunday 17 July 2016
Six of us, Robin Collins, Adam Lilley, Bruce Barnett, Dave Drohan, Scott Drohan and myself, met at Sawyer's Hut
at 8am with the initial intention of doing Witz's Hut. We left Bruce's car down the road a bit so that we could
have a bit of a thru ski starting from where the road crossed Eucumbene at Kiandra. However, as we drove up
and around Sawyer's Hill, we were greeted with pretty thin snow cover so we proceeded through Kiandra to Selwyn to undertake option B - ski to Tabletop.
At Selwyn, the cover was thin
and had clearly been rained
on ... surprising given the reported massive snow falls to the
south. Of we all went, Rob,
Adam, Bruce, Dave and his son
Scott, and me. The conditions
were fast and we made it in
pretty quick time to the 4 mile
hut turnoff.
We followed the road pretty
from there to the 9 mile diggings area, where we diverted
to a ridge for a sunny morning
tea. Our tracks were the only
ones around. After morning tea,
we proceeded onwards to Mt
Tabletop. The ascent up Mt T
was a bit warm, and we had to
take skis off near the top where
the cover got too bare.
Monika with Tabletop Mountain behind
Photo: Monika Binder
Up top we had 360 degree
views. A visit to the trig and a
few obligatory snaps, we then
settled in for a snoozy lunch in
the sun.
Dave and Scott decided to
make there way slowly back to
Selwyn via the road taking
photos along the way. The rest
of us returned via Broken Dam
hut (which no-one had visited
it since the last time I was
there some 3 to 4 weeks before). After returning to Selwyn, we stopped off at Adaminaby at the bakery for a burger and hot chocolate. A great
day and satisfying tour.
Monika Binder
Monika with Tabletop Mountain behind.
Page 14
Photo: Monika Binder
Issue 4, 2016
Ski and Snow Photographs
"Rob Wignell was lucky to get a break in the weather at Guthega on 21 July. It rained every one
of the five days he was there and washed away a lot of snow. The day after full moon, the moon
sets a bit after the sun gets up. On this occasion there was no red colour on the snow from the
sunrise but a slight magenta haze as the moon disappeared into cloud over Mt Twynam was the
reward for an early start."
Photo: Rob Wignall
The Dolomites at Sunset. Dreams are made
of places like this.
Photo: Lachlan Kennedy
Off Piste
Page 15
Ski and Snow Photographs (cont’d)
"Big Quarry at Nine Mile Diggings.
Photo: Monika Binder
Robin, Bruce, Dave and Adam at Tabletop Trig.
Photo: Monika Binder
Rusty Artefact at Broken Dam Hut.
Photo: Monika Binder
Page 16
Issue 4, 2016
Ski and Snow Photographs (cont’d)
Taken on 23 May 2015 at North Ramshead. Very interesting, and long, walk back down the mountain in
the dark and through the snow machines following this shoot Photo: Tony Brown
Sunset not far from Selwyn taken on 25 June 2016 following the Four Mile Hut Tour.
Brown
Small Creek taken on 25 June 2016 on the Four Mile Hut Tour.
Off Piste
Photo: Tony
Photo: Tony Brown
Page 17
Touring News
As Tour Coordinator for this year my main aim is to have the best possible tour program available to members, in
particular increasing the number of tours. I will be happy to receive proposed tours from members at any time,
plus I will be chasing people to lead tours. The more tour leaders we have, the greater the variety of tours for
members, plus it takes the burden off the usual tour leaders.
The Tour Program, containing tour leaders contact details, will be available in the Members Only section of the
web site, in the Members version of the Off-Piste newsletter, and also on tour sheets put out at club social meetings where members can put down their names for tours or propose new tours. Between each monthly newsletter, additional tours will be advertised on the web site and/or by separate emails to members. Non-members will
also have access to the Tour Program (without tour leaders details) in the ‘Tours’ page on the web site and on
the Club Facebook page.
The Club Facebook page has been popular for trip reports and photos and is a good way of seeing what the skiing
conditions are like throughout the season. New tours proposed on Facebook will not be designated as formal
club trips but people are welcome to propose tours here, and should be aware of the Club guidelines below.
On the Club web site, the ‘Info / Club Forms’ page contains the following forms and guidance that should assist
tour leaders and participants:
Advice for Tour Participants
Advice for Tour Leaders
Guide to Transport Costs
Tour Intention Form – Tour Details & Acknowledgement of Risks and Obligations
Emergency Procedures
Incident Report
Medical Information & Emergency Contact
Ski Tour Grading
If anyone is interested in leading tours feel free to contact me at any time with the details.
Alan Levy
It is important that tour participants ensure that their abilities match the skill levels required by the tour – a description of the Terrain, Distance and Skill Level descriptors is provided below and under Ski Tour Grading on the club’s website.
TERRAIN
Rolling — Flat to gently rolling hills, no big hills to climb or descend. There may be some steep sections but these will be
short and easy to negotiate.
Hilly — Large rounded hills requiring several turns to descend but not technically difficult. There may be some steep sections
but these will be short and easy to negotiate.
Steep — Steep skiable hills including black runs at resorts, cornices and chutes. Technically difficult slopes to descend.
DISTANCE
Short — Under 8km/day and < 200m vertical climb. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Medium — 8km to 15km/day OR 200m to 600m vertical climb. A moderate level of fitness is required.
Long — Over 15km/day OR > 600m vertical climb. A high level of fitness is required.
SKILL LEVELS
Basic — Can maintain control and perform the following skills on gentle terrain: kick turns, snow plough, side step, herringbone, traverse and diagonal stride.
Intermediate — Can maintain control and perform the following skills on hilly terrain: kick turns, snow plough turns, step
turns, side slip, side step, herringbone, traverse, diagonal stride and self arrest.
Advanced — Can maintain pace over long distances. Has intermediate skills plus able to link stem,
turns.
Page 18
parallel or telemark
Issue 4, 2016
Tour Program
Date
Saturday,
6 August
Sunday,
7 August
Tour Description
Leader
Smiggin Holes
Basic Skills
Gentle-Rolling Terrain
Short Distance
An easy tour for Beginners around the cross-country ski trails at Smiggin Holes.
The Porcupine & Johnnies Plain
Intermediate Skills
Rolling & Hilly Terrain
Long Distance
Start at Perisher and ski to The Porcupine and beyond to explore the
Johnnies Plain area.
Sunday,
7 August
Tuesday,
9 August
Tuesday,
9 August
Tuesday
9 August
Wednesday,
10 August
Thursday,
11 August
Friday,
12 August
Friday,
12 August
Off Piste
Race – Boonoona Open
A 5km race for all standards around the Perisher Trails, starting at
10:30am. Classic and Freestyle.
Mystery Coffee Tour #1
Meet at the Perisher XC Centre at 9am before heading out to a mystery
location for coffee and great views.
CCCSC Afternoon Tour (Beginner)
The Club will be running some afternoon ski tours at Perisher following
the PXC Coffee Tours. These tours are open to anyone. Meet up at the
Perisher XC Centre at 1:30pm. Ken and Gale will run a tour mainly for
Beginners around the Perisher Trails.
CCCSC Afternoon Tour (Intermediate)
The Club will be running some afternoon ski tours at Perisher following
the PXC Coffee Tours. These tours are open to anyone. Meet up at the
Perisher XC Centre at 1:30pm. A tour will be run mainly for Intermediates in the Perisher area.
Race – KAC XC Classic
A mass start citizen ski race from Perisher to Charlotte Pass, starting at
10:45am. Classic and Freestyle. Many Club members participate in this
event, then have lunch at the Chalet, followed by a leisurely ski back to
Perisher.
Race – Sundeck Handicap Race
A 7.5km handicap race around the Perisher trails, stating at 11am, followed by lunch at the Sundeck Hotel.
Mystery Coffee Tour #2
Meet at the Perisher XC Centre at 9am before heading out to a mystery
location for coffee and great views.
CCCSC Afternoon Tour (Beginners)
The Club will be running some afternoon ski tours at Perisher following
the PXC Coffee Tours. These tours are open to anyone. Meet up at the
Perisher XC Centre at 1:30pm. Lachlan will run a tour mainly for Beginners around the Perisher Trails.
Page 19
Tour Program
Date
Saturday,
13 August
Tour Description
Leader
Meet at the Perisher XC
Centre
Perisher Area
Basic & Intermediate Skills
Rolling & Hilly terrain
Medium Distance
Anyone wanting to go skiing can join other Club members (who will already be there for the preceding week) at the Perisher XC Centre at
9am. Will head off to somewhere interesting in the Perisher area. Transport won’t be arranged. Just turn up.
Saturday,
13 August
Satturday 13— Sunday
14 August
Race – Snowy Mountains Classic
2.5, 7.5, 15 & 30km Freestyle races held around the Perisher trails,
starting at 9:30am.
Introduction to Light Weight Ski Touring
Intermediate Skills
Rolling terain
Long Distance
A tour to follow on my article, Aim to keep your pack weight under 12
kg. We head off from Munyang (Guthega Power station) early Saturday
morning and see which hut we can get to for the night. If all goes well,
Mawson’s should be in range. Suitable only for touring skis. Limit of
4, could stretch to 6, but then dependant on larger huts.
Sunday,
14 August
Tuesday,
16 August
Introduction to the Telemark turn
Intermediate Skills
Rolling terrain
Short Distance
Meet at the Perisher Nordic Shelter ready to leave at 10 am, and we will
ski along the Porcupine trail to the Mt Wheatley saddle. From there we
will find slopes of various gradients to learn the graceful and useful telemark turn. It is possible to do telemark turns on 200m skinny skis with
soft boots and long touring ski stocks, but only if you are an expert and
can't remember where you left your tele skis, or are particularly masochistic! Much better, if you don't own a pair, to hire telemark skis (the
shorter the quicker they will turn) plastic boots, and telescopic ski
stocks, from one of the hire shops in Cooma or Jindabyne.
Mid-Week Tour
All Standards
A mid-week tour somewhere in the mountains where the snow is best,
preferably in the northern end of the park around Mt Selwyn.
Saturday,
20 August
Sunday,
21 August
Kosciuszko Tour
Our Club is running this ski race, which will start at Perisher and head to
Charlotte Pass and back. Participate in the Kosciuszko Tour ski race either as a racer or volunteer helper.
Perisher – Farm Creek – Perisher Gap
Intermediate skills
Rolling terrain
Medium distance
For those who volunteered for Kosciusko tour duty and any other interested party. Start from Perisher and follow the trail past Blue Cow resort. Down to Cow Pastures and cross creek heading up New Farm
Creek, passing to west of Mount Perisher and onto Perisher Gap, then a
nice downhill return via Mount Wheatley and Charlotte Pass trails. Coffee shop stop a live option. In the event of severely bad weather tours
on trails from the Nordic shelter will be done instead. Please contact
Tim by evening of Thursday 18 August to get on this tour.
Saturday,
27 August
Page 20
Dainers Gap
Basic & Intermediate Skills
Rolling & Hilly terrain
Medium Distance
A ski tour starting at Dainers Gap. Possible routes could include the
Plains of Heaven, Pretty Point or along the pole line towards Thompsons
Plain and Perisher.
Issue 4, 2016
Tour Program
Date
Saturday,
27 August
Sunday,
28 August
Tour Description
Leader
Race – Kangaroo Hoppet
Club members will be in Victoria to participate in the 42km Kangaroo
Hoppet, 21km Australian Birkebeiner and 7km Joey Hoppet ski races at
Falls Creek.
Mt Tate
Intermediate skills
Hilly & Steep terrain
Medium distance
Met at the bakery at Nuggets in Jindabyne at 8am. Head to Guthega,
cross the dam wall and the bridge over Guthega Creek before commencing the climb up Tate East Ridge and on to Mt Tate. Great slopes and
views along the way.
Saturday,
3 September
Sunday,
4 September
Sunday to Sunday, 411 September
Brindle Bull Area
Intermediate Skills
Rolling & Steep terrain
Medium Distance
Start at Dead Horse Gap and ski along the Thredbo River Valley and
explore the valleys and slopes of the Brindle Bull.
Not the Kosciusko Tour
Intermediate Skills
Rolling terrain
Long Distance
This tour will relive the glory days of the Kosciusko Tour ski race by following the original route from Thredbo to Perisher on the September
date. The tour will involve a car shuffle and the purchase of a lift ticket
at Thredbo and a Ski Tube ride from Perisher back to Bullocks Flat.
Leave car(s) at Bullocks Flat, drive to Thredbo, catch the chairlift up to
the top of Crackenback, then ski along the old Kosciusko Tour route
along the pole line and summit road to Charlotte Pass, then continue
along the road to Perisher, before returning to the car(s) at Bullocks
Flat.
Guthega Lodge Week
All Standards
I am running a cross country week for my lodge the Australian Ski Club
at Guthega from 4th September first night and last night the 10 th, to go
home on the 11th September. So there will be 6 days of tours (Mon-Sat)
and it will run along the lines of the Charlotte Pass weekend with more
than one tour going out each day. Cost is $70 per night per person and
each room has its own ensuite, there are quality beds and NO bunks,
self catering, your own fridge ,etc. Booking must be done through an
ASC member (me) start with an email to: iamdavidr.russell@gmail.com
I will then send a flyer with more information.
Off Piste
Page 21
Cross Country Skiing Lessons 2016
Lessons at a glance
Date
Aug
Saturday 6
Aug
Sunday 14
Instruction
Weekend courses for beginners with K7 Adventures
Sunday 7
Telemark tips for beginners
Saturday 6 - Sunday 7 August 2016 - weekend courses for beginners with K7 Adventures
This 2-day course will give you a firm foundation in cross country skiing technique.

Meet your instructors and have a tour of the Perisher Cross Country Centre

Introduction to equipment and clothing

Progressive lessons in classic technique

Cornering and downhill technique

Relay races as a method to improve skills

Pole technique and timing

Introduction to skating technique

Off piste and on piste nordic skiing

Familiarisation with the Perisher cross country trail network with a fun tour
$140 per person. Register and pay here - https://www.registernow.com.au/secure/Register.aspx?ID=8503.
Deb
CCCSC Lesson Coordinator
The fine print and how to book
 Lessons will only be run if there will be 6 or more participants.
 Bookings should be made by 5pm on the Wednesday before the lesson if possible, however they will still be accepted after
Wednesdays (this helps with planning instructors etc).
 There might be times when, because of a lack of snow, you will need to catch the ski tube to Blue Cow to attend a lesson.

You will have to pay for the ski tube, so make sure you carry the fee with you. For more information and ski tube prices go
to http://www.perisher.com.au/resort-information/getting-to-perisher/skitube.html.
Lesson locations are subject to change depending on conditions.
Map to Perisher Nordic Trails.
Most lessons are based at the Perisher Nordic Trails. The trails are across the road from the main Perisher Centre and Car
Park. This link provides directions and a map to help you find the trails.
http://www.k7adventures.com/ACCESS%20TO%20PERISHER%20NORDIC%20SHELTER.pdf
Kosciusko National Park Entry Fee.
You will need to pay a park entry free. For up to date information on fees go to:
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/NationalParks/parkFeesConditions.aspx?id=N0018
Transport & Parking.

Car pooling: CCCSC coordinates transport but cannot guarantee a lift on every occasion. You can post a message on
the Club’s Google Groups site to car pool. The link to the CCCSC Google Group is :
https://groups.google.com/group/cccsc?hl=en A contribution to costs will be required.

Buses are an option: Murrays - www.murrays.com.au/ or Transborder - www.transborder.com.au/

Parking is free inside Kosciusko National Park.
Questions? email Canberra Cross Country Ski Club’s Training Coordinator - cccsctraining@gmail.com
Page 22
Issue 4, 2016
Canberra Cross-Country Ski Club
KOSCIUSZKO TOUR ENTRY FORM
10:00 am Saturday 20 August 2016
Family Name
First Name(s)
Address
Postcode:
□ Please keep me informed on
E-mail
address
Work
Telephone
Birth
year
Home
______________
Gender
(Entrants must be at least 14 years old)
Club name
CCCSC
Team Entry (Optional)
(must have 3 people per
team)
Team name
Names of other team
members
□
Other Club
Fancy
dress
□
□



Family
□
1.
The Entrant, by entering and starting agrees to:

Male
□
Female
□
Name of club: _____________________________
Conditions of Entry


the Kosciuszko Tour by email
Mobile
be at least 14 years old,
be responsible for their fitness and ability to take part in
the event,
have adequate clothing, food & drink before, during and
after the event,
carry a small pack during the tour if weather conditions
require, containing warm/wet weather clothing, snacks
and drink
report to the nearest official if withdrawing from the
event, &
absolve the Canberra Cross Country Ski Club (CCCSC),
Kosciuszko Tour Coordinator, organising committee,
Technical Delegate, marshals, individuals, sponsors, or
associated authorities from any liability for any injuries
or loss that he/she may incur.
Club
□
ADF
Service
2.
Canberra Cross-Country Ski Club (CCCSC) reserves the right
to:







vary or cancel any race arrangements to suit weather or snow
conditions,
post variation or cancellation notices on cccsc.asn.au and at race
office,
refund the entry fee paid less expenses if the race is cancelled before
13 August,
make no refund if the race is varied or cancelled on or after 13
August,
make no refund, credit or exchange if the Entrant withdraws before
starting,
close the Drink Stations and Finish at the times advertised, assist
unfinished Entrants to these points and exclude them from the
results,
refuse entry or participation to any Entrant,
Early Bird Entry Fee (Received by Saturday 16 July)
$40
Standard Entry Fee (Received by Wednesday 17 August)
$50
Race Day Entry Fee* (To 8:45 am Saturday 20 August)
$60
 Please send completed entry form and payment (cheque or money order) to:
KT Race Secretary, CCCSC, PO Box 6234, O'Connor, ACT 2602
*Race Day (late) Entry fees must be paid in person at Perisher Cross Country Centre on race day
Pay Online (Visa/Mastercard) at Register Now :
https://www.registernow.com.au/secure/Register.aspx?E=21001
Sign here
□
(Signature of Entrant or Parent/Guardian if Competitor is under 18 years of age)
THE COURSE
Course - The Kosciuszko Tour will, weather and snow conditions permitting, start from the top of Perisher Gap and follow
alongside the Kosciuszko Road to the lookout at the top of Charlotte Pass. It will then cross Johnnies Plain before climbing
the Porcupine to finish at the Perisher Nordic Shelter, a distance of some 22 km.
Changes - The exact course on the day will be advised at Perisher Nordic Shelter and the Start.
Tracks - A classic track and freestyle track will be set and marked with flags where possible.
The Kosciuszko Tour is open to both Classic and Freestyle (Skating) skiers. Freestyle skiers will start 15 minutes after the
classic skiers. Any skier who starts with the Classic technique group and is observed skating will be disqualified.
The race start area at the top of Perisher Gap can be cold and windy. Entrants should wear a warm,
weatherproof jacket while waiting for the start. Jackets/small packs can be transported back to the
Perisher XC centre by skidoo after the start.
If the weather conditions are poor, entrants may be required to carry at a small pack of safety
equipment including an all weather jacket, extra clothing, and drink and food.
There will be drink stations on the course, but it is recommended that entrants carry additional water
especially if the weather is mild and sunny.
RACE OFFICE - Perisher Cross Country
Centre (Nordic Shelter)
Open for late entries
TIME
7:45am to 8:45am
Pick up bibs and ankle transponders
9:00am to 9:30am
START
Pre-race briefing at Perisher Gap
TIME
9:45 am
Race Start
10:00am to 10:15am
RACING - This is a tour race so there is no calling of “track” – please go around slower skiers.
FIRST AID/DRINK STATIONS –drink stations at Charlotte Pass, Porcupine and Perisher
SAFETY - Sustain your fluid intake and wear adequate clothing. The course will be patrolled by skidoo and swept by skiers.
Please note that the course does not follow the regular groomed trails and snow conditions can range from ice, deep snow or
slush. Natural hazards include rocks, bare patches and vegetation. Other skiers also use these trails. Skiers must ensure
that they ski in control at all times to minimise risk of collisions and injury. In warm, sunny weather use sunscreen,
sunglasses and carry sufficient water.
If the weather deteriorates ski together and help each other as much as possible. If you come across another entrant in
difficulty or distress, assist and/or report to the nearest official on skidoo or at a first aid/drink station, giving a bib number,
problem outline and location.
Bibs/transponders will be accounted for at the Finish and a missing bib/transponder may initiate a search at your expense.
If you withdraw from the Tour report to the nearest official and hand in your bib and transponder.
FINISH
Outside Perisher Cross Country
Ski Centre (Nordic Shelter)
Each finisher will be timed and have their bib exchanged for a presentation ticket
TIME
10:30am to 1:30pm
PRESENTATION
Perisher
Your Presentation ticket is valid for a drink and snacks
Individual, team and spot prizes will be awarded
Results will be posted at the Presentation, on the web page and emailed
Survey forms should be completed and placed in the box at the Presentation
TIME
2:30pm to 3:30pm
Club Committee Contacts
President
Lachlan Kennedy
cccscpresident@gmail.com
Vice President
Vacant
cccscvicepresident@gmail.com
Secretary
Greg Lawrence
cccscsecretary@gmail.com
Treasurer
Paul Room
cccsctreasurer@gmail.com
Membership Secretary
Gale Funston
cccscinfo@gmail.com
Tour Coordinator
Alan Levy
cccsctours@gmail.com
Instruction Coordinator
Deb Purss
cccsctraining@gmail.com
Kosciusko Tour Coordinator
Jo-Anne Clancy
cccscracing@gmail.com
Meeting Coordinator
Rowan Christie
cccscmeetings@gmail.com
Newsletter Editor
Tony Brown
cccsceditor@gmail.com
Webmaster
Nick Reese
cccscwebmaster@gmail.com
We’re on the web!
www.cccsc.asn.au
C AN B ERRA C RO SS
C OUN T RY S K I C LU B
PO Box 6234
O’Connor ACT 2602
Email: info@cccsc.asn.au
Fun and fitness in the snow
Club Snow Camping Gear for hire
The following gear which is owned by the Club is available for hire to Club members.
These prices are cheap. The commercial hire charge for a 2-person tent is $45 per weekend.
Tent (Macpac 3-4 person) -$20/weekend ; - $30/week
Trangia stove - $3/weekend; - $5/week
Snow shovel - $4/weekend; - $6/week
Contact Noel Mungovan
Club Safety Gear for use by Tour Leaders
The Club has four Personal Locator Beacons (PLB), two GPS units and some
first aid kits which are available free of charge to members leading Club ski
tours.
PLB (GME MT410G)
Contact Alan Levy, Jo-Anne Clancy, Bruce Porter or Lachlan Kennedy.
GPS (Garmin ETrex Vista HcX)
Contact Alan Levy & Jo-Anne Clancy.
Off Piste
Page 25
Social meetings 2016 — all welcome
Note: Change of venue (see map and address on following page)
Wednesday 17 August 2016
Into the Heart of the Himalayas
Guest Speaker: Juno Lineen
Jono Lineen will share his 8 year journey Into The Heart Of The Himalayas and his subsequent book.
Wednesday 31 August 2016
Snowshoe from Canberra to Kosciuszko
Guest Speaker: Phillip Moses
Phillip Moses will talk on his expedition by snowshoe from Canberra to Kosciuszko.
Wednesday 14 September 2016
Landscape from Ainslie to the Snowies
Guest Speaker: Matthew Higgins
Matthew Higgins will share his discoveries and insights into the Landscape from Ainslie to the Snowies.
Wednesday 28 September 2016
Skiing in Sweden
Guest Speaker: Alan Laird
Alan Laird will share his recent experiences and photos of skiing in Sweden.
AGM
28th Sept: Also it’s the AGM. Election of New Committee for 2017. This is where you can put your hand up to
be a part of running the Club. We keep this as short as possible to keep space for our Guest Speaker.
Meetings are held at the Hughes Community Centre, Hughes Place, Hughes, Canberra, Canberra on
the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month from mid May to October. Door opens at 7.30 pm for
7.45 pm start. Light refreshments will be provided.
Page 26
Issue 4, 2016