CAVES AUSTRALIA - Bent-wing Bats Health Survey Family Caving in Thailand Cave Diving NSW
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
CAVES
The Journal of the Australian Speleological Federation
AUSTRALIA
Bent-wing Bats Health Survey
Family Caving in Thailand
Cave Diving NSW
No. 205 • SEPTEMBER 2018
COMING EVENTS
ASF
This list covers events of interest to anyone seriously interested in caves and www.caves.org.au. For international events, the Chair of International Com-
karst. The list is just that: if you want further information the contact details mission (Tim Moulds timothy.moulds@yahoo.com.au may have extra infor-
for each event are included in the list for you to contact directly. The relevant mation. A similar calendar is published in Caves Australia. This calendar is
websites and details of other international and regional events may be listed for known events in 2018 and early 2019.
on the UIS/IUS website www.uis-speleo.org/ or on the ASF website http://
2018
9-14 September 6-10 November
International Association of Hydrogeologists Congress, with Topic 7: Ad- 1st Colombian Speleological Congress and 8th Congress of FEALC (Federa-
vances in Karst and Fractured-rock Hydrogeology, Daejeon, South Korea tion of Latin American and Caribbean Speleological Associations), San Gil,
http://iah2018.org/ Colombia http://sociedadcolombianadegeologia.org/i-congreso-colombia-
27–30 September no-de-espeleologia-y-viii-congreso-espeleologico-de-america-latina-y-el-
24th International Cave Bear Symposium, Chepelare, Bulgaria http:// caribe/
icbs2018.at 10–18 November
3-6 October International Cave Rescue Training, Lozere, France. For details contact
Middle Eastern Speleological Symposium, Antalya, Turkey http://mess4. dodelinchristian@gmail.com
com/. 30 December–4 January 2019
2–6 October 31st Australian Speleological Federation Conference – The Darkness
International Workshop for Women Speleologists in Latin America, Chal- Beneath: Caving Tasmania, Devonport, Tasmania. For more information:
lenges and Perspectives.Viñales, Pinar del Río, Cuba. No further details as https://asfconference2019.com/general-information/ Presentation: https://
yet. prezi.com/view/KavyRw5tX1ExvDqCr7aY/
12–18 October
8th Congress of the International Show Caves Association, Genoa, Italy,
http://www.i-s-c-a.com/event/68-8th-isca-congress
2019 and beyond
23-29 July 2021
The next International Congress of Speleology is the18th International Con-
gress of Speleology, 23—29 July 2021 (Lyon, France), http://uis2021.speleos.
fr/
A very useful international calendar is posted on the Speleogenesis Network website at
www.speleogenesis.info/directory/calendar/
Many of the meetings listed above are on it but new ones are posted regularly.
Underground Oddities
Grace Matts
HCG
O N A TRIP to Perth about five years ago John Cugley
took me to Crystal Cave in Yanchep for a cave tour.
Imagine my surprise to come across this construction in
one of the chambers. It’s just adjacent to the pathway.
From memory it’s about six metres long, with nothing in
it. Upon enquiring as to the purpose of this construction I
was told it was an earthquake shelter (?!). I wondered about
the engineering.
The things you can find in caves — strange.
For further information Google “Earthquake Shelter,
Crystal Cave, WA Australia”. Seems there’s some discussion
about removing this shelter. It would be interesting to read
JOHN CUGLEY
any information pertaining to its construction - like why?
Has anyone else met something odd or strange in a cave
on their visits anywhere?
Page 2 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲
CAVES AUSTRALIA
Caves Australia
ASF
Caves Australia is the Journal of the
Australian Speleological Federation and is
published quarterly. No.205 September 2018
This work is © copyright 2018, Australian Speleological Federation
Australian Speleological Federaton Inc, PO Box 388 • Broadway • NSW 2007 • www.caves.org.au
although copyright in articles, photographs ABN 15 169 919 964
and illustrations remains with the ISSN 1449-2601 • Registered Publication NBQ0005116
authors. Aside from any fair dealings for
Contents
the purposes of private study, research,
criticism or review as permitted under the
Australian Copyright Act 1974, no part
may be reproduced without the written Coming Events................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
consent of the author and/or publisher and Underground Oddities............................................................................................................................................................ 2
the inclusion and acknowledgement of the
Grace Matts
source.
The views expressed in Caves Australia Editorial................................................................................................................................................................................................... 4
are not necessarily those of the Editor or President’s Report......................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Publisher (the Australian Speleological
Federation Inc) or its Executive, Bent-Wing Bats Health Survey....................................................................................................................................... 5
Commissions or Committees. Nicholas White
Editor: Protecting Australian Bats Earns National Award.................................................................................... 6
Alan Jackson Health Survey of Two Subspecies of Bent-Winged Bats..................................................................... 7
Email: alan.jackson@lmrs.com.au
(Miniopterus orianae bassanii and M. o. oceanensis)
Production and Advertising Manager: Peter Holz
Alan Jackson
Email: alan.jackson@lmrs.com.au Obituary: John Robert Dunkley AM....................................................................................................................... 9
Proofreading: Nicholas White, Susan White
Susan White The Future of Caves Australia....................................................................................................................................... 11
Greg Middleton Bob Kershaw
Ian Curtis
Family Caving in Krabi, Thailand............................................................................................................................ 13
ASF: asfinfo@caves.org.au Alan Jackson
For all ASF publications:
publications@caves.org.au Subterranean biology of the Krabi tower karst, Southern Thailand................................... 17
Editorial contributions are welcome! Tim Moulds
For contributor guidelines, contact the Unleashing the potential of Caves Australia................................................................................................. 18
Production Manager. Sarah Gilbert
Advertising
Contact the Production Manager for Serious and funny caving incidents ...................................................................................................................... 19
commercial, caving community and Garry K Smith
classified rates. Rates range from $5 to $400 Cave Diving New South Wales .................................................................................................................................. 22
for full page mono back cover. Discounts 2017 Projects Report
apply for placements of 4 adverts and an
Keir Vaughan-Taylor
up-front payment.
Issue Dates ASF Conference update: rescue exercise.......................................................................................................... 26
March, June, September and December What’s happening at the ASF Conference ..................................................................................................... 27
Magazine Subscription
Journals are included within ASF Cover: Happy Crayfish Cave, Krabi, Thailand. Photo Bill Nix, assisted by Kate Stephens
membership fees. Subscription to the
magazine is also available to non-ASF
members at $40.00 including postage ASF Executive
within Australia for one year (four quarterly President John Cugley
issues). Senior Vice-President Graham Pilkington
Change of address Treasurer Grace Matts
Notify us immediately of any address General Secretary Robert Kershaw
changes to ensure delivery of your Caves Executive Secretary Phil Maynard
Australia.
Membership Secretary Colin Tyrrell
Vice Presidents Deb Hunter
Jim Crockett
Sarah Gilbert
WANTED
Whether caving, cave diving or generally just
Layout and Production by caving, Caves Australia readers are interested in
FB Design, Hobart, Tasmania YOUR story. It is only with YOUR contribution that
we can produce a quality magazine for all to enjoy.
For writing and style guidelines, contact the Editor
ARTICLES FOR CAVES AUSTRALIA! or Production Manager.
Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 3
EDITORIAL
ASF
D ESPITE the disappointment of
not a single letter to the editor
I am happy to report that other
President’s Report
contributions are trickling in.
We even made this a 28-page issue
to squeeze a few important bits and
pieces in.
But CA’s appetite is insatiable so
I can’t permit you to relax – keep
writing, please.
A read of this issue reveals some
C ONGRATULATIONS to the Thai
agencies, the Thai people and every-
one in the Australian and international
upcoming changes around Caves caving community involved in the Tham
Australia. While the issue of password Luang cave rescue.
protection of the PDF version is up In what can hopefully be described
for debate at the January conference, as a once in a lifetime experience, the
the issue of opt-in versus opt-out for skills and knowledge that cavers and cave
electronic versus paper is settled. divers develop through years of experience
From the March 2019 issue (#207) in their pastime came together to enable an
only those people who have indicated extraordinary rescue.
a preference to receive a hard copy It was not without loss, though, and
will do so. our thoughts as an Australian caving com-
munity are with the family and friends of
Currently the default is hard copy former Navy SEAL diver Saman Gunan.
unless otherwise indicated via the Like many in the Australian caving
option box on the ASF Membership community, when times are tough or help
Database. From January 2019 this is needed; he responded to the call and
default option will swap over. unfortunately paid the ultimate price for his
It is the responsibility of individual selflessness. May he rest in peace.
members and clubs to ensure the A by-product of this extraordinary event
DAVID WOOLS-COBB
database is accurate. is that caves and caving have been in the
media more than ever.
If you’re not sure how to log During the rescue Australian Cave Res-
in and make the changes yourself cue Commission Coordinator, Brian Evans,
then consult the individual in your represented the ASF in the mainstream Caving in the Ningbings with Veronica Schumman
club responsible for membership media, writing a well-received article high- It is the friendship, exploring and docu-
(membership secretary/ treasurer in lighting the intricacies of the rescue. menting caves for future generations and
most cases). A follow-up piece emphasised the swapping of ideas with others that make
The December issue will contain advantages of being involved in official this pastime so enjoyable and rewarding.
an article covering the basics of how caving clubs and activities when exploring All these things help contribute to the
to log in and check your status. Don’t caves to hopefully avoid situations like this. primary founding objectives of the ASF —
panic — you have almost six months. The recent press coverage is likely to protecting the cave and karst environment
result in a new influx of people interested in of Australia.
◆ ◆ ◆ ASF clubs and what we do. I hope to catch up with as many of you as
The Northern Caverneers team Please welcome them and encourage possible in Tasmania at the end of the year
continues to work tirelessly on the them. By engaging novices in established at The Darkness Beneath ASF Conference.
next conference. clubs, we have opportunities to have Please do not leave your travel arrange-
positive influences on encouraging adher- ments too late as this is peak tourist time.
Discounted ‘early bird’ ence to environmental, ethical and safe During the conference the AGM and
registrations close very soon and caving practices — a win-win situation for all council meeting will be held and your input
many Spirit of Tasmania sailings over involved. as clubs is invaluable. Make sure you are
the December-January period are On a personal note, I managed to represented.
already booked out. get away caving the other month to the The executive has its next meeting in
If you’re thinking of attending Ningbings, just north of Kununurra, for a September. Along with the usual agenda
then now is the time to act. The couple of weeks of caving. items, we will be holding another session
conference website is bursting with Sitting around the fire in the evening facilitated by Steve Milner on the the ASF
information. after a day’s caving reminded me of why I Strategy as a follow up to the previous
go caving. session held last year. —John Cugley
Page 4 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲
CAVE FAUNA
Bent-Wing Bats Health Survey
Nicholas White
T HE ASF and its members have a
policy of protecting cave biota. Cave
dwelling bats are the most obvious inhab-
bats.3 The coronaviruses in these reports
were unrelated to those associated with Se-
vere Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS)
itants of caves. or Middle East Respiratory Syndrome
Bats suffer from a bad press, as they are (MERS).
associated with disease. In Australia, the The first Hendravirus outbreak involved
Australian bat lyssavirus and Hendravirus horses and their carers. It occurred at
in the last 20 years have emerged as diseases Hendra near Brisbane in Queensland in
threatening people. 1994. There have been many subsequent
MARVIN MORIATY/USFWS
The Karst Conservation Fund in 2016 horse outbreaks in Queensland and
provided funds to Peter Holz, a wildlife Northern NSW and some seven people
veterinarian, for a PhD study on ‘Health have been infected resulting in four deaths.
survey of two subspecies of bent-wing bats The natural hosts are fruit bats.
(Miniopterus schreibersii bassanii and ocea- Transmission to horses is believed to be
nensis)’. through contact with bat urine, body fluids
The study is now winding up with a All four flying fox species have been or other excretions. Human horse handlers
summary in the article on page 7. The find- shown to carry ABLV. There is a closely and veterinary personnel have been infect-
ings showed no evidence of the WNS fun- related strain of the virus isolated from ed by exposure to body fluids when han-
gus (Pseudogymnoascus destructans) but the Yellow Sheath-Tailed Bat (Saccolaimus dling sick horses, with lethal consequences.
were positive for the histoplasmosis fungus flaviventris). To my knowledge the yellow A related virus is Nipah Virus whose host
(Histoplasma capsulatum) in the Victorian sheath-tailed bat is not normally a cave are Pteropterid fruit bats.
and South Australian populations of bent- dwelling bat but there is a maternity colony It was first discovered in 1999 as an
wing bats. in one of the lava tubes at Undara. overflow infection in humans managing
As well as the sampling for fungi the bats No other lyssaviruses have been isolated pigs in Malaysia. Since then its range has
were examined for other endoparasites and from other microbats but there was some been extended to Bangladesh and India.
ectoparasites and for evidence of viruses. serological evidence of it in sampling un- Nipah virus is known to spread from
Peter Holz has now published his work dertaken from 1996-2002; this is further human to human. Nipah virus and Hendra-
on presence of viruses.1 The study design discussed below.5 virus are closely related and are classified in
included examination of samples for a Bat researchers and wildlife carers need the henipavirus group.
number of very significant bat viruses that to be vaccinated with rabies vaccine and Ebola virus and Marburg virus are
have impacted human health. maintain an adequate level of anti-rabies filoviruses, which have caused devastating
Such diseases are known as zoo- antibody. outbreaks in Africa and are now known to
notic diseases. In the paragraphs below I Post-exposure prophylaxis is still originate with fruit bats. It appears to be the
comment on the findings. needed, whether or not the person is vac- trade in ‘bush meat’ which introduces it to
There was evidence of herpesviruses in cinated.2 This is why it is inadvisable for humans in Africa.
the bent-wing bats. This is not surprising cavers to handle bats. The first discovery of a filovirus was in
as most species of mammals have herpes There was no evidence of coronaviruses, Marburg, Germany in 1967 when labora-
viruses that are species specific. filoviruses, henipaviruses or adenoviruses. tory and animal workers were exposed
There was no evidence of Australian Bat Further comment is given below. to infected African green monkeys.
Lyssavirus (ABLV). This virus is related to Pathogenic coronaviruses, which origi- The first outbreak of Ebola virus was
rabies virus. Infections with ABLV in Aus- nate in bats, have been shown to spread to in 1976 next to the Ebola River in the
tralia have resulted in three human deaths other animals and then to humans. These Democratic Republic of Congo. These
to date (1996, 1998, 2013). are SARS via civet cats and MERS via viruses both transmit from human to hu-
Two of the three human infections were camels which cause devastating diseases man by exposure to infected body fluids.
transmitted by a bite or scratch from a once transmitted to humans. Customary funeral practices have exacer-
flying-fox (not dead, sick or injured) and The study reported here did not find bated the number of cases during outbreaks
the other was determined to be due to a evidence of coronaviruses in the bats tested and containment of infection needs isola-
microbat (Yellow sheath-tailed bat) based although other reports have shown the tion of patients and strict infection control
on antigenic evidence. presence of coronaviruses in Australian protocols.
▲ Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 5
Bent-Wing Bats Health Survey
SUMMARY declined in Victoria and South Australia. collected from 1996 to 2002 from a range
CAVE FAUNA
It is reassuring that the bent-wing bat It may be that Emmi van Harten’s studies of species. Small numbers of antibody-pos-
populations in Victoria and South Austra- on ‘Population dynamics of the critically itive individuals were found in a number
lia are not positive at present for the virus endangered Southern Bent-wing Bat’, also of families including cave dwelling groups
groups tested. The WNS fungus was not supported by the Karst Conservation Fund, (Macroderma, Chalinolobus, Mormopterus,
found but the histoplasmosis fungus was may provide some reasons behind the Hipposideros)5. Cavers are advised not to
detected. population decline over recent decades. handle bats, especially bats which are sick
The Southern bent-wing bat popula- Zoonotic diseases associated with bats or injured.
tions in SA and Western Victoria as well have become more common in recent times. WNS fungus is not known in Australia
as the Eastern bent-wing bat population The recent outbreaks associated with fruit at present. However, the risk of WNS fun-
of Eastern Victoria both suffered serious bats are undoubtedly due to habitat changes gus introduction into Australia is very real.
declines in numbers in the last few decades. and the fruit bat ‘camps’ are in forest rem- A number of prevention and preparedness
The studies conducted by Peter Holz do not nants much closer to humans on farms, in activities are under way by the Federal
appear to show any microbiological reasons villages and towns. Department of Agriculture and Water Re-
for these population declines. A number of microbats have been shown sources together with the Department of
Further research is needed to determine to have antibodies to ABLV in a screening Immigration and Border Protection who
why populations of bent-wing bats have program using samples of blood and brain are tightening up on control procedures.4
REFERENCES
1. Virus survey in populations of two 3. Coronaviruses in Australian Bats Fact 5. Field HE Evidence of Australian bat
subspecies of bent-winged bats (Mini- Sheet, Wildlife Health Australia lyssavirus infection in diverse Austra-
opterus orianae bassanii and oceanensis) https://wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/ lian bat taxa. Zoonoses Public Health.
in south-eastern Australia reveals a high Portals/0/Documents/FactSheets/Mam- 2008;00:1-7
prevalence of diverse herpesviruses mals/Coronaviruses%20in%20Austra- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/
Peter H. Holz et al lian%20Bats%20Feb%202017%20(2.0).pdf abs/10.1111/zph.12480
http://journals.plos.org/plos one/ 4. Holz P, Hufschmid J, Boardman W,
article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0197625 Cassey P, Firestone S, Lumsden L,
2. Rabies, Australian bat lyssavirus and Prowse T, Reardon T, Stevenson M, 2016.
other lyssaviruses Australian Govern- Qualitative risk assessment: White-nose
ment, Department of Health syndrome in bats in Australia
http://www.health.gov.au/internet/ http://www.wildlifehealthaustralia.com.au/
main/publishing.nsf/content/ohp-rabies- Portals/0/Documents/ProgramProjects/
consumer-info.htm WNS%20Disease%20Risk%20Analysis%20
Australia.pdf
Protecting Australian Bats Earns National Award
Source: http://tinyurl.com/y955kgaa
A USTRALIAN bats are better pro-
tected against a fungal disease
known as white-nose syndrome, thanks
hibernating bats in caves. The disease has
led to the deaths of millions of insectivo-
rous bats overseas.
to a team effort coordinated by veteri- The project included assessment of the
narian Dr Keren Cox-Witton of Wildlife risk of the disease being introduced into
Health Australia. Australia, development of response guide-
Dr Cox-Witton’s tireless work was rec- lines in case of an incursion, and advice for
ognised in March 2018 with an Australian those who come into contact with bats on
Biosecurity Award. how to recognise and report a suspected
Dr Cox-Witton said it was a collabora- case of the disease.
tive effort to better prepare Australia for an A number of activities were aimed
WILDLIFE HEALTH AUSTRALIA
incursion of the disease, which has not at raising awareness of cavers about the
been found in Australia but has devastated disease and how to avoid introducing the
bat populations in the United States and fungus.
Canada. Wildlife Health Australia CEO Dr
‘Some very dedicated people were criti- Rupert Woods said that the work of Dr
cal to the success of this project,’ she said. Cox-Witton and others on white-nose
‘I’d particularly like to recognise Rachel Dr Keren Cox-Witton with her syndrome could have wider impacts.
Australian Biosecurity Award
Iglesias from the Department of Agricul- ‘Most importantly, the project serves as
ture and Water Resources, Nicholas White ‘It is good to see that the value of envi- a case study on how to manage the risk of
from the Australian Speleological Fed- ronmental biosecurity, and the intrinsic exotic wildlife diseases. It is a great example
eration, a team of experts led by Peter Holz importance of wildlife, has been recognised of how key stakeholders can support the
from the University of Melbourne, and my at a national level,’ Dr Cox-Witton said. Australian Government and its leadership
colleagues at Wildlife Health Australia. White-nose syndrome is caused by a on important environmental health issues.
‘I am very pleased and honoured to fungus, Pseudogymnoascus destructans, It is amazing what can be achieved when we
receive the award. which thrives in cold conditions and affects all work together,’ he said.
Page 6 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲
CAVE FAUNA
Health Survey of Two Subspecies
of Bent-Winged Bats
(Miniopterus orianae bassanii and M. o. oceanensis)
Peter Holz
Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne
T HE southern bent-winged bat Similarly for the eastern bent-winged bat
(Miniopterus orianae bassanii) is guano sample, levels were below detection
listed as critically endangered because its except for DDE (0.061 mg/kg), total DDT
found previously in bent-winged bat skin
nodules; and two blood parasites: Polychro-
mophilus melanipherus, a close relative of
numbers have declined significantly over (0.065 mg/kg) and dieldrin (0.027 mg/kg). the malaria parasite, and haemoplasma, a
the past fifty years, and it only uses two For the guano sample collected from the bacteria that infects red blood cells. Results
breeding caves, at Warrnambool in Vic- breeding cave at Naracoorte, levels were are in Tables 1 and 2.
toria and Naracoorte in South Australia. also below detection except for DDE (0.017 One bat sample and one environmental
Despite disease being identified as one mg/kg). sample tested positive for P. destructans by
of the potential causes contributing to its These levels are low compared with PCR. These samples were submitted to the
decline, minimal research has been carried those found in bat populations that suf- Australian Animal Health Laboratory for
out in this area. fered mortality and declines as a result of further testing, which indicated that the
This project surveyed southern bent- pesticide exposure. Consequently no fur- fungus was not P. destructans but a closely
winged bats for a range of potential disease ther testing was undertaken and the study related fungus in the same genus. All other
causing agents and compared these results focused on examining bats for a range of samples tested negative.
with eastern bent-winged bats (Miniop- infectious disease agents. A white nose syndrome risk assess-
terus orianae oceanensis), which have a The agents surveyed included three ment was completed for Wildlife Health
stable population. groups of fungi: Pseudogymnoascus de- Australia. This document can be accessed
There was some initial speculation that structans, the fungus that causes white- at https://www.wildlifehealthaustralia.com.
pesticides may have contributed to the nose syndrome, Histoplasma capsulatum, au/Portals/0/Documents/ProgramProj-
decline of the subspecies. a fungus found in caves capable of causing ects/WNS%20Disease%20Risk%20Analy-
However, preliminary testing of pes- disease in humans, and fungal skin flora; sis%20Australia.pdf.
ticide levels in bat guano in the Victorian six groups of viruses: Australian bat lys- While all environmental samples were
southern bent-winged bat breeding cave savirus, coronaviruses, filoviruses, henipa- negative a small number of bats tested
found that levels were below detection viruses, adenoviruses and herpesviruses; positive for Histoplasma capsulatum. This
except for DDE (0.01 mg/kg), total DDT four external parasites: batflies, mites, was unexpected as bats become infected
(0.065 mg/kg) and dieldrin (0.027 mg/kg). ticks and Riouxgolvania beveridgei, a worm with the fungus from the environment.
Table 1. Fungus, Herpesvirus and Haemoplasma PCR Results
(Numerator is the number of positive results. Denominator is the total number of samples tested)
P. destructans H. capsulatum Fungal Skin Flora Herpesvirus Haemoplasma
Southern bent-winged bat (Victoria) 0/150 10/127 (8%) 66/121 (55%) 73/121 (60%) 4/17 (24%)
Southern bent-winged bat (South Australia) 0/75 16/112 (14%) 42/112 (38%) 22/230 (10%) 2/41 (5%)
Eastern bent-winged bat 0/100 10/151 (7%) 76/151 (50%) 51/116 (44%) 2/25 (8%)
Environment 0/30 0/57
Table 2. Parasite Results
(Numerator is the number of positive results. Denominator is the total number of samples tested)
Batflies Mites Ticks Riouxgolvania P. melanipherus P. melanipherus
beveridgei (based on blood (based on PCR)
smear examination)
Southern bent-winged bat 59/189 73/188 19/188 78/188 35/61 12/13
(Victoria) (31%) (36%) (14%) (41%) (57%) (92%)
Southern bent-winged bat 68/138 66/138 5/138 12/138 43/128 22/44
(South Australia) (49%) (48%) (4%) (9%) (34%) (50%)
Eastern bent-winged bat 28/151 45/151 10/151 1/151 22/85 13/28
(19%) (3%) (10%) (1%) (26%) (46%)
▲ Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 7
Health Survey of Two Subspecies of Bent-Winged Bats
However, the fungus’s preferred growth
CAVE FAUNA
temperature is above 22oC, conditions not
found in the caves examined.
It is speculated that the cooler cave cli-
mate prevents fungal growth from occur-
ring until the fungus finds its way onto the
warmer skin of the bats. Bats are minimally
infectious for humans, so the health risk
to people working in the caves appears to
be low. This is supported by the fact that,
after spending three years working in these
caves, both myself and one of the bat ecolo-
gists remain negative for H. capsulatum
exposure.
As expected, many of the bats were posi-
tive for skin fungi. While a few of the fungi Figure 1. Distribution of herpesviruses detected in each of the seven bent-winged bat locations sampled
found on the bats have occasionally caused across Victoria and South Australia. Numbers represent the number of viruses of each type present in the
disease in other species none of them have population. D15-like viruses = Green. NG46-like viruses = Orange. N7050-like viruses = Blue. CH20-like
viruses = Maroon. E22-like viruses = Lilac. CH6-like viruses = Salmon.
been associated with disease in bats. Pseu-
dogymnoascus roseus, an environmental the populations sampled. See Figure 1. other groups. Despite associations having
fungus related to P. destructans, was identi- There were no significant differences been made between this parasite, anaemia
fied on one eastern bent-winged bat. between the different location groups for and weight loss in other bat species there
All 213 samples that were tested for the numbers of bats that were positive for were no signs of ill health in the bats
Australian bat lyssavirus, coronaviruses, haemoplasma, batflies, mites or ticks, but surveyed in this study. PCR was a more
filoviruses, henipaviruses and adenoviruses significantly more Victorian southern bent- accurate way of detecting P. melanipherus
were negative. winged bats were positive for R. beveridgei infections than blood smear.
A large number of bats tested positive for and P. melanipherus. Victorian southern It detected the parasite in numerous
herpesviruses. Sequencing indicates that bent-winged bats also carried significantly samples where it had been missed on blood
six different viruses are present throughout greater burdens of P. melanipherus than the smear examination.
CONCLUSIONS
❚ P. destructans was not found on any of disease in other species, none have ❚ All bats examined were in good health
the bats or environments surveyed. caused disease in bats. with no signs of malnutrition or illness.
❚ The WNS risk assessment concluded ❚ Australian bat lyssavirus, coronaviruses, Therefore, it seems unlikely that any of
that southern bent-winged bats are at filoviruses, henipaviruses, and adeno- the disease agents surveyed are contrib-
risk from P. destructans should it be in- viruses were not found in the bats sur- uting to the decline in southern bent-
troduced into Australia, as they occupy veyed. winged bat population numbers.
caves within the preferred temperature ❚ Six different herpesviruses were found. ❚ Victorian southern bent-winged bats were
range of the fungus. ❚ Bent-winged bats carried a number of more likely to be positive for herpesvi-
❚ H. capsulatum was found on bats but not in different ectoparasites: ticks, mites, bat- ruses, R. beveridgei and P. melanipherus.
the environment, likely because cave tem- flies and nematodes. While the agents themselves do not ap-
peratures are too low for fungal growth. ❚ Bent-winged bats were infected with low pear to be responsible for population
The risk of humans becoming infected in numbers of haemoplasmas. declines it is possible that this group of
these caves appears to be low. ❚ Bent-winged bats were infected with P. bats is being subjected to an as yet un-
❚ A large number of different fungi were melanipherus. PCR is a more accurate identified stressor, which is impacting
found on the skin of the bats surveyed. method of detecting this parasite than their immune system and ability to sup-
While a few of these fungi have caused blood smear examination. press these agents.
Help Wanted and Needed
KARST CONSERVATION FUND COMMISSION: HELP NEEDED
The Fund has a number of projects currently under consideration. To achieve its
success, the Commission needs to expand the volunteers involved. In particular
we need a Fundraising Co-ordinator and a Communication and Publicity Co-
ordinator. If you can help, contact the Chair of the Commission, Nicholas White
(Email: karstfundinfo@caves.org.au).
PUBLICATIONS COMMISSION
The commission urgently needs a volunteer to regularly collate the calendar and
events for Caves Australia, ESpeleo and the website. For details contact: Susan
White Publications Commission Chair (Email susanqwhite@netspace.net.au)
Page 8 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲
OBITUARY
John Robert Dunkley AM
19 March 1943—1 February 2018
Nicholas White, Susan White
J OHN was born in Sydney in 1943 and
attended West Ryde Primary School
and Fort Street Boys High School.
He went to the University of Sydney
where he studied geography and econom-
ics, followed by a Diploma of Education.
He married Jeanette Parkes in 1970.
John is survived by Jeanette and his sister
Margaret. He became a secondary school
teacher, teaching economics, geography
and later legal studies, and taught in Sydney
state secondary schools and, after moving
to Canberra, many of the Canberra high
schools.
His passion beyond study and work was
caving where he quickly became involved
in Sydney University Speleological Society
(SUSS) in the early 1960s. This developed
into involvement in the operations of the
Speleological Research Council (SRC) and
ASF as well as the Canberra Speleological
Society (CSS) and the Highland Caving
Group (HCG). It is difficult to do justice to
all of his caving activities.
The caving passion quickly became a
feature of his life. As a very keen travel-
ler, he combined his overseas travel with
visits to caves and cave areas in many out
of the way areas. Many of us have listened
to his travelogues of obscure places at ASF
conferences: China, Thailand, Eastern Eu-
rope, Vietnam, Laos, Burma (Myanmar),
South America, Africa and more recently
Antarctica, with photos of caves out of train
windows and other oddities. Many of these
were undertaken well before they were ‘dis-
NICHOLAS WHITE
covered’ by the guidebooks.
Exploration at Jenolan, discovering new
caves and passages, and as well the deep
caves of the Nullarbor Plain were being
1969 but the project blossomed when he roads and other “improvements”. Needless
found and explored. John participated in
presented a travelogue at the January 1985 to say these trips discovered numerous
this exploration as well as becoming deeply
ASF Conference in Hobart. The first real caves and burial sites and led to many
involved in the publication by the SRC
speleological trip to Thailand was in May publications. John tired of this project
of the findings of both Jenolan and the
1985. This became the Thailand Project once civilisation intruded on the activities.
Nullarbor work.
and John conducted numerous expeditions It has been continued by several British
John’s other significant speleologi-
to the Northern Provinces of Thailand caving groups but his legacy is acknowl-
cal explorations involved expeditions to
for 15 years. By that time civilisation had edged extensively. The Thailand Project
Thailand and to Bullita in the Northern
intruded and caves found by the expedi- resulted in about 60 publications, includ-
Territory. John first visited Thailand in
tions had become show caves with paved ing five books, ten management reports,
▲ Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 9
John Robert Dunkley AM
24 speleological articles, 15 scientific pa- Division of the Order of Australia in 2013
OBITUARY
pers in Helictite, Cave Science, Australian for significant service to the exploration,
Archaeology etc. and an entry in the Ency- science and conservation of caves and
clopedia of Cave and Karst Science. karsts. His involvement was extensive and
A paper on caves at Bullita in Gregory intensive:
National Park in the Northern Territory ❚ Authored or co-authored more than 16
was first published in 1989 in the BCRA publications on caves and their history
Journal. plus numerous articles.
This prompted John to organise a very ❚ President, Australian Speleological Fed-
successful trip in 1991 from the Canberra eration (ASF), 1983-1986 and 2002-2005;
Speleological Society (CSS) with partici- Vice- President, 1981, 2000-2001 and
pants from the Top End Speleological 2005-2015; Secretary, 1966-1967; Mem-
Society (TESS). Subsequent trips were held ber, since 1960; Fellow (Life Member)
yearly to coincide with school holidays at since 2007.
the start of July. JOHN DUNKLEY COLLECTION
❚ President, Sydney University Speleologi-
The Bullita system grew in length each cal Society, 1968 and 1970-1972; Secre-
year to the stage now that the main Bullita tary, 1963; Librarian, 1964; Member,
Cave itself is over 130 km of connected pas- 1963-1973; Life Member, since 1973.
sage and other associated caves in the area, ❚ Director, ASF Karst Conservation Fund,
totalling 170 km. since 2001; a Registered Environment
It was on one of these trips in 2005 Fund.
that John suffered serious heat exhaus- deductible Gift Fund recipient. The Fund ❚ Founding Treasurer, Jenolan Caves
tion, which marked the end of his remote was approved in 2001 and is now known as Historical and Preservation Society; and
area caving activities. Further exploration the ASF Karst Conservation Fund and John served in various executive roles, 1973-
continues with other participants under was appointed as one of the Fund’s inaugu- 2009.
the auspices of the Jutburra-Gregory Karst ral directors. ❚ President, Canberra Speleological Society,
Research Special Interest Group. John was instrumental in seeing this 1983-1985 and 2000-2002.
John had a long-term interest in cave Fund support small and large projects ❚ Member, SRC, Helictite, (the Journal of
management and cave conservation. With fulfilling the karst conservation aims of the Australasian Cave Studies), and member
Elery Hamilton-Smith, he instigated and Federation. of the ASF Helictite Commission 2000-
organised the first Cave Management Con- There was a long negotiation with Ce- 2016.
ferences through the ASF Cave Manage- ment Australia about gifting the Mt Etna ❚ Member of the ASF Library and Grants
ment Commission. Quarry and associated facilities to ASF Commissions. It was his initiative which
These conferences were extremely suc- but in the end these were gifted to the established the Grants Commission for
cessful and they filled a niche that had Queensland Park Service. support for small projects.
been empty for professional cave and karst However, the company instead donated John had so many interests and could
managers. After five ASF and various con- a substantial amount of money to the Karst speak on so many topics including macro-
ferences organised by state management Conservation Fund, which seeded some of economics, social history, geography,
agencies, the Australasian Cave and Karst the first Fund projects. Australian history, the latest political news,
Management Association (ACKMA) was He not only explored and documented classical music, the history of cinema (espe-
formed. caves and karst but also was intimately in- cially science fiction movies), caves of any
John was never quite comfortable in that volved in speleological organisations. John’s country, Australian and international train
having participated in such a successful accomplishments and contributions are so schedules and things to see wherever one
forum for cave managers, it then became numerous over so many years that they might be intending to travel in Australia or
an independent organisation. Nevertheless, almost defy a simple listing. overseas.
he remained interested in cave manage- He became a Member of the General He loved travel and would visit caves
ment and worked especially with the Thai along the way. If you wanted a detailed
authorities to improve cave management in afternoon’s conversation on the merits of
Thailand. a hotel or airline, or the best way to get
As well as being supportive of the vari- around an overseas city, John was your
ous conservation battles over the years, he man.
became particularly involved in the con- He loved organising gatherings and
sequences of the Save Mount Etna Caves parties, whether it was a simple Wednes-
campaign driven by CQSS and UQSS that day lunch or the traditional Boxing Day
consisted of on-site demonstrations, block- get-together at their house. His dress sense
ades, public education and legal challenges could be a little quirky. Worn-out trousers
to the validity of the mining excavation and cheap flowery shirts purchased from
license. street vendors in Thailand could often be
JOHN DUNKLEY COLLECTION
As a consequence of the Mount Etna seen adorning his tall frame. Fashion was
conservation battle, it was suggested that not an interest of John’s.
ASF should establish a tax deductible Gift We deeply grieve for his untimely pass-
Fund. ing. We will all miss his quirky but intense
It was John who worked through the interest in all things speleological. The
successful registration of the ASF as a tax Australian speleological scene will not be
the same without him.
Page 10 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲ASF
The Future of Caves Australia
Bob Kershaw
ISS and ASF General Secretary
O VER THE last couple of years Alan
Jackson, the editor of Caves Aus-
tralia, the Publications Commission and
ing this one (CA205), he will have a more
complete set of costings. But so far CA203
cost $1025 for layout, sub-editing, typeset-
ing the PDF edition from January 2019.
ASF corporate members (clubs) receive a
printed copy of Caves Australia but there
ASF Executive have been trying to imple- ting, image processing, colour and print is one corporate member that has opted to
ment the electronic publication and stor- management and postage was $820. Extra receive it electronically. Why do clubs want
age of Caves Australia for ASF members. work for the PDF web version was $300. a printed edition these days? Where a print
To support the project there have been a Printing was $2050. So based on copy is returned to ASF — and we have to
number of suggestions made by members, 700 members (regardless of the type of pay excess postage for returned printed edi-
but now we require your feedback to your membership but not including O week tions, $50 for CA203 — Colin changes that
club and then to the Council meeting in members), that is $1.46 for all members person to a PDF edition if an email address
December/January in Devonport. As only for layout and an additional $1.50 for each exists for that person.
the ASF Council can set membership fees, of 200 members for the pdf edition. Now As the total number of printed copies is
members need to be aware of possible the number of printed and posted copies reduced the overall printing costs reduces,
considerations. Personally, I applaud and was 500 so that is $4.10 per printed copy but will increase on a per copy basis. If a
fully support Alan’s efforts to bring the and $1.64 for postage. Total cost for the dual-subscription rate (hard versus elec-
ASF publication into the 21st Century with printed edition is $7.20 and $2.96 (includes tronic) was introduced in future, this would
a pdf edition. ASF is after all an environ- both layout costs) for the pdf edition (not make the cost higher to those members
mental organisation! Alan’s aim of a virtual including server storage costs). receiving the printed edition to cover ASF
electronic blog style format edition of Caves Edition CA204 cost $1025 for Layout, costs.
Australia in the near future may take some sub-editing, typesetting, image processing, Many publications that we read our-
acceptance by members. colour and print management for Caves selves, for example newspapers, e-books,
Australia 204=$1025 and $500 for the photographic or 4x4 magazines, have
COSTING OF CAVES AUSTRALIA preparation of compatible interactive PDF subscriptions at a quarter of the printed
AND FUTURE MEMBERSHIP FEES version for web (there was more work un- edition. So why can’t ASF do the same?
It has been suggested that membership dertaken this time with links added). These publications have a subscription to
fees be reduced and those members who So $3.96 for the pdf edition and print- their product to protect their property and
wish to receive a printed edition of Caves ing and postage was about the same for the to cover their costs of production.
Australia would have a higher membership hard copy. Well, now to the debate about fees and
fee. Some comments from WASG members So we can extrapolate these figures and price of Caves Australia. Sure we can re-
for a printed copy include: say that with more articles photos etc. in duce fees by $30 and then increase them for
❚ ‘I have found the hard copies to be use- the four editions per year, a PDF version those members who want a pdf by $10 -$12
ful in that, after I read them, I take the is worth $16 per year at present and that and a printed version by $30 or by nothing
newsletters to school for my students’ receiving a printed copy is $28.80 per year. if you don’t want a Caves Australia. But we
reference or interest. Some articles have But a full take up of the electronic edition don’t have the administrative volunteer
been helpful to students in research as- would reduce the PDF to $8-10 per year per who is going to administer this in terms of
signments and I also encourage students member and fewer printed editions would the treasurer or membership secretary nor,
to have a look at articles and photos of increase the cost to $30-$40 per year for a I doubt, the club person who is going to
interesting places, formations, etc.’ hard copy. look after the payments by members in the
❚ ‘I vote for the print version because I Colin Tyrrell, our membership secre- first place.
would not make time to read it other- tary, and I have examined the numbers of So how about, in the short term, we split
wise… having the print copy makes the persons who receive what type of edition. the difference and give all members a re-
difference between a credible journal and 109 members want the printed edition duction of $10 in their membership fee and
spam.’ (especially for those ASF members who make life easy for everyone? If we ever have
❚ ‘We would be happy to pay for a copy. do not provide an email address in the an electronic version only, then we reduce
Even if the price is $48 per year, this is membership database), 256 want the PDF the membership fee by a further $10.00.
not excessive, compared to some other edition and the rest have not made up their Simple and administratively acceptable by
subscriptions we have had in the past.’ mind as yet and receive the printed version all parties!? But of course that is the call of
Alan has said that after a couple more by default. That may change when ASF delegates at the Council meeting. (In the
editions of Caves Australia this year, includ- introduces an ‘opt out’ system for receiv- 2001-02 ASF budget the amount in fees set
▲ Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 11The Future of Caves Australia
aside for the publication of the journal was safeguard and protect the natural environ- leaves the argument regarding our intel-
ASF
$12.50.) ment, specifically the cave and karst envi- lectual property and whether it should be
We could of course have no Caves Aus- ronment of Australia”. Many of us have seen available with no password protection.
tralia and give all members a $30 reduction firsthand how the public treats our publicly I have been asked “What about the
in membership fees and save Alan the edi- available karst and cave resources! I will let website and all its content — that costs ASF
tor, like all editors in ASF before him, the you decide on this ethical dilemma of ours. (and therefore its members) money, but
unenviable task of begging for articles for But there is an intertwined economic is available for free public consumption?”
Caves Australia like his editorial plea from and legal argument for protecting our in- True.
CA204. tellectual property in Caves Australia. The This is an arrangement that started in
economic argument is based on the fact 2000 to acquire the caves.org.au domain
REGARDING STORAGE OF THE that Caves Australia has a monetary value name by delegates at council. The website
PDF AND AVAILABILITY TO THE that has been determined by virtue of the was later written and maintained by vol-
GENERAL PUBLIC costs of production and distribution, and unteer labour and initially at no cost. Since
Storage of the PDF edition is held on as we have determined above, is $30 for then the costs of the ASF website are quite
one of the ASF servers looked after by Mike a printed edition and $10-12 for the PDF manageable at present at $1320 per year, or
Lake. As ASF pays a price for various as- edition. Now if Caves Australia is made approximately $1.90 per member to con-
pects of ASF administration and IT and the publically accessible and free to everyone tinue this service that was introduced many
use of hosting our files, the cost of storage of then it has been decided that it now has no years ago. We recently had a quote to un-
the electronic editions and archive is borne monetary value. So why should members dertake work for $1250 on the website but
by ASF through your membership fees. have to “pay” for a worthless product in our managed to get the work done under our
Some members want the PDF edition membership fees? existing contract. If we had to pay for the
publicly accessible with no password. A few This leads onto the legal contractual services for the work of our webmaster for
clubs (SUSS, STC, CCC, FUSSI, HCG) have argument. By giving a membership fee to the ASF site there would be higher hosting
their newsletter publicly available now and the ASF for goods (Caves Australia) and costs, and the membership fee for members
probably expect the same of the ASF’s Caves services (examples include providing pub- may have to increase to cover those overall
Australia. I could be wrong. But current lic liability insurance cover and moneys for costs. Alternatively, we may have to stop
editorial policy is to not publish detailed grants and commission functioning) is said funding the website if membership fees
cave location data or sensitive information to be a contract between members and ASF. did not rise to cover those increased costs;
which is likely to facilitate or encourage Now if Caves Australia has been deemed to regardless that it is now freely available for
inappropriate cave access. be free and to be given away in an unpro- public viewing. But the reason why the
Other members want the electronic edi- tected way then ASF is not providing part codes and other information is available
tions of Caves Australia password protected of the contract for a good and members are on the website is that at the 2002 Council
to protect our intellectual property and entitled to a refund for subsequent editions meeting it was noted in the minutes “There
information regarding caves in Australia of Caves Australia as the product that did was some concern that codes such as sur-
from becoming publicly available as exists have value no longer has its monetary val- vey standards should be protected by a
as the moment. You could argue that clubs ue. Further to this that future membership password.
like CEGSA, VSA, HSC, CSS, MSS and fees should be reduced by the calculated The meeting felt that the status quo was
NHVSS who don’t have publicly available $30 per member as the contract is not being adequate, since there is now a general copy-
publications are in this grouping (again fulfilled by ASF. (Our legal members may right wording on the website, as supplied by
this is supposition on my part), but many wish to comment on this further). But in John Dunkley.
cave locations are shown on government general, anyone who does a ‘work’ owns the That is, the delegates agreed that the
topographic maps these days and photos copyright to that ‘work’ so they would have website provide the information.
and information are readily available on the to give their permission for their ‘work’ in An aside to this discussion, is that if we
internet of things if you search well enough. Caves Australia to be freely available. had to pay for the services of an editor of
A few members have suggested that the Further, if I continue this financial argu- Caves Australia, then we might have to con-
most recent electronic editions be pass- ment, as we have no income from member- sider if we wanted to pay for that service. So
word protected and then after a year or so ship fees to cover the continual costs of pro- thanks to all the editors past and present for
placed in the archive which is not password duction and distribution of Caves Australia, their efforts in producing our journal.
protected. For example, ISS newsletters are ASF will begin to run at a loss. You could There could be other options that I have
uploaded to the National Library’s Trove say that we use the ASF reserves to cover not thought of that might be presented to
and are accessible after a year has passed. these losses but that is not good business the Publications Commission and Council
ISS and BMSC only have recent versions practice and could lead to insolvency. And for consideration. But the final decisions
of their newsletters available for public the accountants and auditor would step in are yours, the members, via the Council
download. and say ‘Stop the losses’. That is, stop pro- meeting at Devonport. Please take the time
We could argue that seeing one of the ducing Caves Australia. to consider the future of Caves Australia as
aims of ASF is to “… provide education To have a Caves Australia in an elec- it is a valuable resource for ASF members
and advice to the Australian community on tronic format only, that has no associated and researchers while we ponder the aims
conserving Australia’s karst resources”, the costs of production, we would require a of ASF in ‘Promoting conservation and
electronic edition should be freely available volunteer to undertake layout, sub-editing, sustainable management of Australia’s cave
to the public to assist in their education re- typesetting, image processing, colour and and karst resources’.
garding karst and caves. On the other hand, print management. It could then be made The views expressed above are mine and
this is negated by the first aim of ASF “to available to the public for free. But that still not necessarily those of the executive.
Page 12 • Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 ▲FAMILY CAVING
Family Caving in Krabi, Thailand
Alan Jackson
STC
T RANSITIONING from ‘I’m an expe-
dition caver and I’m single’ to ‘I’m an
expedition caver and I’m in a relationship’
can be a real challenge.
Taking the next step to ‘I’m an expedition
caver and I have a child’ often proves un-
achievable; generally one has to go. I’ve seen
many a brave ‘weekend’ caver disappear
into oblivion post child, thus the concept of
attempting to leave for weeks at a time on
expedition is ludicrous.
My situation is particularly dire — I’m
an expedition caver, I’m in a relationship
(with a non-caver) and I have two children.
But some of us are fortunate enough to be
born selfish and lacking empathy and thus
struggle on.
I’ve recently discovered there is middle
BILL NIX
ground if you can convince your children
that caving is fun (I gave up on my partner
years ago). Phreatic Ghost Cave, family style
Alternatively, if you start them young
enough, you don’t even need to consider
if they’re enjoying it — you just drag them
along and if they complain about the mud,
bats and oppressive heat you tell them how
fortunate they are to be doing overseas trips
at their age.
A British caving friend, Imogen Furlong,
who had enjoyed around 20 years of unfet-
tered international expedition indulgence,
heeded nature’s call and joined the ‘cavers
with children’ group in 2012. She’d had
enough of it by the end of 2015, selected
a 5 km long, 3 km wide, 560 m high lump
of limestone (Khao Kayam) in Au Thalane
near Krabi, Thailand which appeared de-
void of any cave records, and rounded up a
PETER GLANVILLE
PETER GLANVILLE
bunch of breeding ex-cavers, their partners
and their children for a few weeks of ‘ex-
pedition’ in January 2016. It even attracted
some cavers without kids.
Happy Crayfish Cave A family-friendly outing to the coastal karst
Our own Tim Moulds, his now wife,
Larissa, and step-son Dane attended in in a small sump which, after the applica- tion (not a single child was lost … for long)
2015. It proved a successful expedition tion of some Victorian-era child labour, it was decided to do it again. I joined them,
with numerous small (child-friendly) caves was soon bailed to reveal a short duck/roof with 11-year-old daughter, Anna, in tow.
located on the more easily reached northern sniff and ~1.3 km of quality stream cave to Krabi Family Expedition Mark II ran
and western sides of the limestone blob. explore — Tham Lek Lek. Buoyed by their from ~29 December 2017 to around 15 Jan-
One of the short caves initially terminated finds and the overall success of the expedi- uary 2018 and was principally organised by
▲ Caves Australia No. 205 • September 2018 • Page 13You can also read
