COVID-19 UPDATE Friends Respond to the Pandemic - Heysen Trail
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FREE
COVID-19
UPDATE
Friends Respond
to the Pandemic
FRI E NDS 20 19 I N REVIEW
ME NTAL & PH YSICAL H E ALTH E FFEC TS OF WALKING
WH AT H I K I NG TAUGH T ME ABOUT I SOL ATION
TE RRY L AV E NDE R C H URC H I LL FE LLOWSH IP
FR I E ND S OF THE HEYSE N TR AIL | S OUTH AUSTR ALIA | ISSUE 1 5 6 | WINTER 2020
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LL of FAME ALL of FAM
HA H E
• • • 2 •
2
6 6
1
01
1
01
20
20
7
of
CERTIFICATECERTIFICATE
7
of
EXCELLENCE
2015 •
• 2
EXCELLENCE
2015 •
• 2
018
018
Friends of the
Friends Heysen
of the TrailTrail
Heysen members receive
members a 10%
receive discount
a 10% discount
F
T OF YOUR
UN
EN’ DISCO
NE
10%
XT ‘WEEK
OM
E
ND
ER FOR W
FOR ALL OUR UPCOMING WALKS, TRIPS AND EVENTS
www.bigheartadventures.com.au
Our office is currently closed temporarily due to COVID19.
We continue to operate remotely and will offer our local walking events
and trips in South Australia as soon as distancing restrictions lift.
About the Friends WINTER 2020 • 3
COUNCIL MEMBERS 2020 PATRON END-TO END WALK
His Excellency the COORDINATORS
PRESIDENT
Melanie Sjoberg Honourable Hieu Van Le AC E2E10 Carol Homewood
E2E11 John Babister
VICE PRESIDENT HONORARY MEMBERS E2E12 Adam Matthews
Greg Boundy Sadie Leupold E2E13 Vicki Barrett
SECRETARY Thelma Anderson OAM E2E14 Mark Fletcher
Julian Monfries Kath Palyga E2E15 Mark Curtis
Richard Schmitz E2E-2 Julian Monfries
TREASURER Arthur Smith
PUBLISHED BY THE Stephen Salib-Brown Colin Edwards MAINTENANCE
FRIENDS OF THE HEYSEN Hugh Greenhill SECTION LEADERS
Robert Alcock
TRAIL AND OTHER Colin Edwards Glen Dow S1 Albert Schmidtke
WALKING TRAILS Dom Henschke Barry Finn S2A Roger Dunn
Carol Homewood Dean Killmier S2B John Newland
W heysentrail.asn.au John Wilson S3&4 Hermann Schmidt
John Wilson
facebook.com/HeysenTrail Margaret Fletcher David Beaton (Wandergruppe
twitter.com/HeysenTrail John Babister Jack Marcelis Bushwalkers)
Paul Bond Julian Monfries S5 John Babister
youtube.com/HeysenTrail
Frances Gasson S6 Richard Webb
pinterest.com/HeysenTrail SUB-COMMITTEE Simon Cameron S7 Graham Loveday
CHAIRS David Rattray OAM S8 Ian Harding
CITY BRANCH TRAIL DEVELOPMENT Hermann Schmidt (WEA Ramblers)
Suite 203, Epworth Building Colin Edwards Robert Alcock S9 Jerry & Michelle Foster
33 Pirie St, Adelaide SA 5000 Liz O’Shea S10 Wayne Turner,
WALKING John Potter Kevin Crawshaw,
Open Mon – Fri Adam Matthews
10:30am – 2:30pm Kevin Liddiard Peter Deacon
OFFICE S11&12 Dom Henschke,
T (08) 8212 6299 HONORARY MEMBERS Colin Rozman, Rick Price
Dom Henschke
E heysentrail@heysentrail.asn.au (DECEASED) S13 Hugh Greenhill
MARKETING &
Terry Lavender OAM (Mid North Branch)
MID NORTH BRANCH MEMBERSHIP
Jim Crinion S14-18 Arrangements
T 0428 347 315 Helen Morgante
Neville Southgate currently under review
E burra.heysentrail@gmail.com HONORARY Doug Leane
MEMBERSHIP Fred Brooks OFFICE VOLUNTEERS
MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION Julian Monfries Jamie Shephard MONDAYS
SINGLE $25/year Terry Gasson Graham Loveday
RECONCILIATION
FAMILY $40/year COMMITTEE Neil Nosworthy
TRAILWALKER
Anne Kirk Elizabeth Rogers
SCHOOLS/ORGANISATIONS EDITOR
$60/year TUESDAYS
WARREN BONYTHON Josh West Valerie Boundy
Membership is valid for HEYSEN TRAIL
EDITORIAL Judy McAdam
12 months from the date FOUNDATION
SUB-COMMITTEE Chris Porter
of payment.
CHAIRMAN David Rattray OAM
Robert Alcock
Neville Haar
Philip Bell WEDNESDAYS
SECRETARY Robyn Coburn Elayne Sanders
Neil Nosworthy Colin Edwards Vicki Cahalan
Tammy Main Gilbert Downs
MID NORTH BRANCH
Judy McAdam Jack Marcelis
PRESIDENT Liz Rogers THURSDAYS
Garry Fieldhouse Julie Stapleton Eve Buckley
VICE-PRESIDENT Greg Martin Erica Gordon
Kate Greenhill WEBSITE EDITOR Julian Monfries
Judy Szekeres
SECRETARY Jeremy Carter
Anna Ciccarelli
Sally Fieldhouse
MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY FRIDAYS
PUBLICITY OFFICERS
David Rattray OAM Cathy Bowditch
Garry Fieldhouse
Erika Guess
OFFICE MANAGER Julia McLachlan
COUNCIL MEETING DATES
Dom Henschke Suzanne Mausolf
Wednesday 20 May
Wednesday 17 June BOOKKEEPERS RELIEF STAFF
Wednesday 15 July Eve Buckley
Cover: The wide open spaces of John Wilson
Maria Newland Dom Henschke
Morialta Conservation Park may Graham Loveday
Tina Behnke
be the perfect place to practise Margaret Fletcher Jack Marcelis
self-distancing. Photo: Josh West.
Trailwalker welcomes photo
submissions suitable for the cover
of the magazine. Please email
your high-resolution image to We acknowledge and respect the traditional custodians whose ancestral lands
trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au we traverse along the Heysen Trail. We acknowledge the deep feelings of
attachment and relationship of Aboriginal peoples to Country and pay respects
to the cultural authority of Aboriginal peoples within the Country we walk.
Contents Trailwalker
Articles, reports and other
submissions by members and
06
interested parties are welcome
and should be emailed to
the Trailwalker Editor at
What's the state trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au
of Play in SA? Deadline for the next issue
(Spring 2020):
31 JULY 2020
The Trailwalker magazine is
available by subscription or
online at heysentrail.asn.au/
trailwalker and is published
and distributed quarterly:
05 12 19 • Autumn (March)
• Winter (June)
PRESIDENT’S THE END-TO- BOOK REVIEW: • Spring (September)
REPORT END STORY THE WAYS OF THE • Summer (December)
M EL AN IE SJO B E R G
CONTINUES BUSHWALKER The Trailwalker magazine
The Friends respond to J ULI AN MONFRI ES ME L ANIE S JOB E RG has a typical distribution
the COVID-19 Pandemic Melanie investigates how
of 1500, and an estimated
DEAN MORTI MER
the role of a bushwalker readership of approximately
Following on from the
has developed. twice that number.
06 'Original End-to-End Walk'
article from Autumn Contributors are urged
FRIENDS NEWS Trailwalker 2020.
21 to contact the Editor to
Keep up-to-date with what’s discuss their article prior to
happening on the Trail. 14 THE TERRY submission. The submission
LAVENDER deadline is usually the first
THE MENTAL CHURCHILL Friday of the month prior to
07 AND PHYSICAL FELLOWSHIP the month of publication.
TRAILTHINKER HEALTH EFFECTS
B E N T RE WRE N Views expressed in
QUIZ OF WALKING contributed articles are
Ben investigates ways
DR HELEN DONOVAN to develop, manage and those of the authors, and
promote recreational trails not necessarily those of the
09 Helen highlights the
mental and physical and outdoor pursuits. Friends of the Heysen Trail.
VOLUNTEER benefits of walking.
PROFILE 25 ADVERTISING RATES
R I C H A R D WE B B 16 A NEW SHADE (EX. GST)
Richard shares his WHAT HIKING OF GREEN: 1/8 PAGE $55 per issue
involvement as a
Friends volunteer. TAUGHT ME TRAMPING 1/4 PAGE $80 per issue
ABOUT DEALING TE ARAROA 1/2 PAGE $135 per issue
WITH SOCIAL FULL PAGE $200 per issue
10 ISOLATION
K IRBY DRAP E R
FLYER (supplied for insertion)
With only nine days
$240 per issue
FRIENDS OF THE J OSH WEST
remaining, Kirby had to
HEYSEN 2019 IN depart the Te Araroa. A commitment for 12 months
Trail Ambassador Josh
REVIEW recaps his experiences advertising (four issues)
M EL AN IE SJO B E R G
with social isolation on
the trail.
28 would attract 10% saving.
Melanie recaps the A WEE TOUR Advertising specifications and
Friends of the Heysen's article submission guidelines
involvement in 2019. 18 OF BEN NEVIS are available upon request or
S E AN B E NZ by visiting
ASK A HIKER heysentrail.asn.au/trailwalker
Sean couldn’t help wonder
What is your secret why the UK doesn’t have
scroggin ingredient? its own grand tour around
its highest mountain.
President’s Report WINTER 2020 • 5
The Friends respond to
the COVID-19 Pandemic
MELANIE SJOBERG
W
hat a start to 2020: trains, lines to enter supermarkets outdoor community and group activity.
first bushfires with sanitiser for shopping trollies At this stage, the DEW suspension of
devastating vast and many businesses closed. Strange volunteer activity is still in place. The
areas on Kangaroo it may be, but most of us recognise public pronouncements reinforce that,
Island and the east there is a driving imperative to protect for widespread community safety, we
coast; then extensive restrictions across the community and our health service must practise hygiene and physical
the community in response to a global capacity that underpins the call to distancing for an extended period
pandemic. It seems we’re exhausting isolate and stay home.
The Friends Council and Committees
the thesaurus: unprecedented,
Sadly, in light of ongoing public health will discuss options for our activities
extraordinary, unusual, unexpected,
requirements, the Friends Council in light of the announced easing of
unrivalled, and exceptional… and
made the difficult but necessary restrictions and any requirements and
creating terms like ‘new normal’.
decision to cancel our activities: public health risks that community
The Friends Council views the health, • End-to-End Walk Program and groups must consider. While we
safety and wellbeing of our members other walks using buses for 2020; remain positive about working
and volunteers as a priority, especially it through, limiting groups to a
• TrailWalker/TrailStarter until
while the whole community continues maximum of 10 is challenging.
further notice;
to come to grips with the enormous
• On-Trail Maintenance &
impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic. We
took the Federal and State Government Development Work; and “
public health messages seriously • Keep the Office closed until Stay safe, keep walking and
by postponing our Annual General further notice. keep in touch
Meeting and initially cancelling
Unfortunately, we couldn’t defer or
activities to the end of May.
avoid making a clear decision about ”
the End-to-End Walk Programme Like many not-for-profits, it will be a
“ that so many of us love. Clearly the tough year for the Friends as group
Strange it may be, but most format of large groups using buses walking is so important for our health
doesn’t align with current public
of us recognise there is a health restrictions related to physical
and wellbeing. It is especially sad for
driving imperative to our members to miss that intrinsic
distancing, hygiene and bans on large pleasure derived from sharing
protect the community group gatherings. We also weighed up an interest and being part of an
the complexity of organising multiple organisation that walks and supports
” groups at varying stages along the Trail the Heysen. Despite the restrictions,
as well as challenges related to bus the Friends continues to maintain our
Members would be aware that Walking
and accommodation bookings in an behind-the-scenes administration,
SA also cancelled the annual Hiking Expo
unknown timeframe. website, insurance and office; so I
at the end of April. Friends of Parks
and other volunteer groups cancelled On Friday 8 May, SA Premier Steven especially ask that you maintain your
all activity for the foreseeable future. Marshall announced a staggered membership during the year to help
timeframe to ease some restrictions the Friends organisation stay alive.
As we all manage tighter constraints
within SA. The initial phase allows Meanwhile stay safe, keep walking and
on our daily activity we’ve now seen
regional travel and reopens camping keep in touch through Facebook. I look
large numbers of people working from
in National Parks and caravan parks. forward to seeing you back on the Trail.
home, frequent cleaning on buses and
There is still a limit of 10 people on
Friends News WINTER 2020 • 6
What's the state
of play in SA?
Trailwalker
is calling for
iconic Heysen
Trail photos
To help celebrate the Heysen Trail’s
35th year anniversary in 2021, SA Premier Steven DAY WALKING
Trailwalker is on the hunt for iconic,
unique, historic and distinct images Marshall announced The Department of Recreation &
of the Trail. We are planning to the state planned to Sport has advised that community
showcase these shots (plus brief ease restrictions on organisations must develop
location descriptions/walker
anecdotes) in the upcoming 2020/21
intrastate travel and guidelines for managing COVID-19
risks before resuming any group
Summer edition with a look back at outdoor activities. activities. Walking SA has provided
the moments that have shaped, and So where does this a guide for all walking clubs which
continue to shape, our Trail.
leave the Heysen Trail? the Friends is considering along
Snow on Mt Bryan? Aftermath of a with specific elements to suit our
fire? Dolphins on Tunkalilla Beach? From Monday 11 May, South walking activity. We anticipate that
Endearing Trail figures? Landmark Australia's Stage 3 restrictions, which the Friends should be able to revive
events? Send your high-resolution have been in place throughout the a modified Trailstarter/Trailwalker
shots to the Trailwalker Editor state to limit physical distancing programme and will announce that
trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au and reduce the COVID-19 threat, on the website after a detailed plan
were eased. Several of these new has been finalised. As previously
announcements have a direct effect advised, the End-to-End Programme
on the Heysen Trail, including: is cancelled for 2020.
• community groups may commence THROUGH-HIKING
outdoor activities in groups of up
to 10; This latest development, which also
• regional travel is now allowed; and allows camping on-park and on
Crown Land, means this season's
• National Parks will reopen for South Australian Heysen Trail
camping (including along the through-hikers can continue their
Heysen Trail). preparation and commence their
journey as planned.
For the most up-to-date information, Despite the easing of restrictions,
check out www.heysentrail.asn.au remember to practise good hygiene
Wind, hail and rain no more!
and adhere to the 1.5-metre rule.
The Friends have a new branded
marquee to erect at future field days,
expos and social events.
Friends News WINTER 2020 • 7
Has your The Friends are
membership moving office –
lapsed? next door
Thank you for being Members and Volunteers will be
pleased to know that we have arranged
a friend, but please take with Epworth House to move into
a moment to reflect. the vacant office right next door to
our current office. The only address
Did you know that many of our change will be from Suite 212 to 203.
members don’t walk our trails but
The significant change will be a bigger,
their financial contribution (only
brighter space to carry out our volunteer
$25 a year for singles and $40 for
work and to meet in what promises to be
couples) goes a long way to help our
volunteer organisation?
a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Trailthinker
Your contribution allows us to:
The Friends Executive and Office
Committee is looking at how we Quiz
• HELP OTHERS WALK THE ENTIRE coordinate the transition while keeping
TRAIL as many of you have done, in line with current restrictions. 1. What is the name of the
with leaders and buses Activity will be staggered to ensure highest mountain in
• OPEN AN OFFICE 5 DAYS A WEEK volunteers willing to help are able to South Australia?
with volunteers to answer adhere to physical distance, health 2. Who is the only South
questions and sell maps and & safety and hygiene. At least in this Australian-born person to
other material restricted period we can gradually shift feature on an Australian
• MAINTAIN AND REDEVELOP THE across over the next few weeks. banknote?
1200KM TRAIL with markers,
stiles and toilets. As already announced, the office will 3. In which year was the
remain closed until further notice due first section of the
Rest assured, your $25 is very well
to COVID-19; so members may look Heysen Trail officially
spent. We hope your time with us was
forward to visiting the new office once opened?
enjoyable; we would love you to stay.
the restrictions allow us to gather.
4. Which Heysen Trail town
holds the distinction of
being the oldest copper
mining town in Australia?
NG E R T
SE 5. Farmers Union Iced
S
RA
SINCE
PA
Coffee was first sold in
1995
N S POR
South Australia in
S
ST
Transport & Removals which year?
T
I SP
E C I AL
6. What are the names of
five squares in Adelaide's
Explore the Mawson & Heysen Trails
city centre?
through the Flinders Ranges, or
7. What is the largest local
discover the Fleurieu Peninsula
government area in
Regular bus services connecting South Australia?
Adelaide and Copley, and the towns
8. The Trailwalker was first
in-between. Passenger/freight published in which year?
timetables available online.
9. Mt Sonder is a trailhead
08 8552 4000
for which Australian
long-distance trail?
10. The 426-kilometre
genesis@genesistransport.com.au Hume and Hovell Track
www.genesistransport.com.au is located in which
Australian state?
ON THE MOVE? RING US FOR A REMOVAL QUOTE ANSWERS PAGE 18
WINTER 2020 • 8
Newland Head Conservation Park
Wild South Treasurer’s
Coast Way Report 2019
on the Friends Treasurer
Stephen Salib-Brown
Heysen Trail
reports a surplus
totalling $10,415 for
the year 2019.
INCOME
SALES OF GOODS $5,717
Melanie Sjoberg reports While designs are yet to be finalised, MEMBERSHIP
SUBSCRIPTIONS
$24,859
the current project plan aims to
on the upgrade of the commence building infrastructure WALKING, WEEKENDS $49,992
Heysen's coastal stretch. for high-quality walk-in campsites AND OTHERS
along the 5 day, 4 night section
Members may recall the announcement ADVERTISING REVENUE $7,369
with the first site to be open around
last year that the SA Government had
June 2021. Current camping in INTEREST RECEIVED $2,594
committed $6 million to upgrade the
Deep Creek, such as Stringybark,
Heysen Trail and Deep Creek. Plans
Tapanappa, Trig and Cobblers Hill SUNDRY INCOME $25,035
are progressing for rejuvenation of the (INCL. HH DONATIONS)
will also gain improvements to
Heysen Trail between Cape Jervis and
facilities during the 4 year project. TOTAL $115,566
Victor Harbor.
Those of us initiating the
The Friends of Heysen Trail President
rejuvenation are especially excited EXPENDITURE
and Yankalilla Council Tourism &
that an upgrade to the carpark, $5,434
Events Manager are represented on the ADMINISTRATION
facilities and ridgeline along
Department for Environment and Water
Goondooloo will provide access LEASE COSTS $9,926
(DEW) Steering Committee overseeing
for people with limited mobility
the project. The summer bushfires INSURANCE AND $7,037
to experience nature and those
and more recent COVID-19 Pandemic AFFILIATION FEES
wonderful views across to the Pages.
caused some slowing but designs are
BANK FEES $3,685
now being prepared and consultation This stunning coastal section of the
is underway with the local tourism Heysen Trail is poised to become a OFFICE EXPENSES $13,572
sector to identify opportunities for drawcard for through-hikers as well
transport, walking support and as day-walkers wanting to explore the PROMOTIONAL COSTS $5,433
accommodation in the region. dramatic cliffs, gullies, beaches and TRAILWALKER COSTS $13,706
expansive native vegetation while
Most importantly, the reinvigorated
staying in one of the many local TOTAL $58,793
section of the Trail will have its own
accommodation options with ready
moniker – Wild South Coast Way on the
access to drop-off, pick-up points.
Heysen Trail! And plans are afoot for a ADMINISTRATIVE $56,772
For those that enjoy being under the
signature Trailhead just east of Cape SURPLUS
stars but not carrying a pack there
Jervis and another highlight marker as
is always the option of camping in LESS TRAIL $46,357
you complete the 5-day section in Victor MAINTENANCE
Deep Creek or more comfort staying
Harbor. We’re hoping the Trailhead will
at local cottages and B&Bs. NET SURPLUS $10,415
be ready to open in October 2020.
Volunteer Profile WINTER 2020 • 9
Volunteer Profile: Richard Webb
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN stopped many a time and had a great
INVOLVED WITH THE FRIENDS? conversation with these same people,
I started helping out with the and it’s what keeps me committed.
maintenance of Section 6 on the Heysen WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE
Trail back in 1998, so I guess more than WALK ON THE HEYSEN?
20 years now. I teamed up with a fellow
The coastal breeze, birds and animals
walker from the Four Seasons Walking
of the Waitpinga to Bluff stretch first
Club, where we were already looking
comes to mind. But then my mind
after a stretch of overgrown scrub on
wanders to the Ranger’s headquarters YOUR FUNNIEST MEMORY
Blackfellows Creek Road.
at Mt Magnificent or maybe St Mary’s MAINTAINING THE TRAIL?
WHAT’S INVOLVED IN Peak with its purple Cockatoos in the We conducted a short survey walk to
MAINTAINING YOUR SECTION Flinders, but then again there are the check markers near Chookarloo, which
OF THE HEYSEN TRAIL? wildflowers of Morialta; so many to turned into an all-day adventure with
In the beginning, it was a working bee choose from. friends, complete with a bogged 4WD
where 20 or so people would come out and a trek to hail a local landowner
WHAT’S A FAVOURITE WALK with a tractor to dislodge us as the sun
to cut back small trees and clear the OTHER THAN ON THE HEYSEN
trail path. Over the years the number was setting. Wasn’t the first time he’d
TRAIL? rescued visitors in the area.
has waned, but I still head out on a
Cradle Mountain; another time I took
Wednesday. I’ll usually have hand saws,
an unexpected detour, but you know A MEMORABLE MOMENT?
loppers and a battery-powered hand drill
what? I saw the beauty of Cradle Meeting Terry Lavender; a pioneer of
with me. All tools, that by the age of
Mountain from a different perspective, both the Heysen and Lavender Trails.
75, you have tucked away in your shed.
and I will always cherish that. An inspiring man.
I live nearby the section, and access
for short trips is easy. If any trunks are
thicker than 20cm, I put in a call to the
Heysen Friends Committee, and they
organise professionals with equipment.
One part of my role is to coordinate
local landowners where the Trail
crosses their land. I’ve enjoyed being a
part of the community, and I’m always
pleasantly surprised at the generosity
of time and equipment they offer to Trailwalker
preserve trail infrastructure. Photo
WHAT KEEPS YOU
Competition
VOLUNTEERING FOR THE
HEYSEN FRIENDS?
I thrive being outdoors. My partner
will often come along, and we’ve both
Photo: Anne Kirk
enjoyed seeing the landscape change
over time. It was great to see new trees
being planted on the western boundary
of Kyeema and then watch them grow. Pauleen Bond safely We invite our readers to
submit photos of themselves or
I remember walking the Heysen adhering to social others reading Trailwalker in
Trail back in the 1970-80s and finding
myself making up time after straying distancing rules with interesting or unusual locations.
off the path. I’m conscious of young her Trailwalker in Please send your high-resolution
families and lone walkers needing a Belair National Park. photos to The Editor at
well-marked trail, so the experience trailwalker@heysentrail.asn.au
is enjoyable and straightforward. I’ve
WINTER 2020 • 10
Friends
As always, it is our members and
dedicated volunteers who put in
2631
an enormous effort to keep the
of the
Trail alive and our organisation
functioning.
TDC volunteer
Heysen
TRAIL DEVELOPMENT
hours throughout
AND MAINTENANCE 2019
2019 in
In 2019, the TDC launched a
database to record trail activity and
help monitor projects and volunteer
hours. It was designed and SIGNIFICANT TRAIL
review constructed by a skilled volunteer DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS
and fully funded by the FOHT. The focus of major infrastructure
Why does this matter? projects during 2019 was around
Fundamentally, it helps analysis of the Mid North and facilities at
what is being done and improves campsites further north were
how we plan our work. Importantly also improved.
it allows us to report outcomes and • BLACK JACK CABIN
our volunteer contribution to DEW (north of Burra)
and gives us sound data to assist Refurbished the cabin including
with preparing grant applications bed benches, transported it to
for future projects. site, installed cabin, toilet and
water tank and added outdoor
TDC VOLUNTEER HOURS platform, fire pit, solar.
• HALLETT RAILWAY HUT
ACTIVITIES HOURS Replaced ceiling and cornices,
SECTION LEADERS 868 new wood burning stove, new
(regular maintenance, prun- stainless steel sink, long table
ing, fix markers, posts, stiles) and benches & fresh paint,
solar. Toilet & tank existed.
END-TO-END MAINTENANCE 432
• STONY CREEK CAMP
(identified and programmed
Replaced water tank, repaired
repairs, re-marking routes;
includes meeting with local guttering & installed platform.
landholders, councillors and • BUNDALEER WEIR CAMP
service providers) Installed toilet and platform.
• LIGHT HUMMOCK CAMP
FRIENDS SHED 360
(Allendale)
(weekly preparation)
Installed water tank & platform.
located at Cobbler Creek
Conservation Park with • MIDDLESIGHT & WILMINGTON
support from DEW Installed platforms.
Due to the outbreak INSTALLATIONS 384
DEW TRAINING SUPPORT
of COVID-19, the (platforms, toilets, tanks)
Friends postponed MAJOR UPGRADES 507 Our volunteers benefitted from
several training courses related to
the Annual General - Hallett Railway Hut
- Black Jack Cabin health and safety that were funded
Meeting scheduled for by DEW during 2019.
March. The following ANNUAL HUT SURVEY
(assessing conditions, vermin,
60
is a summary of key tanks; replace fire extinguish- TRAINING
ACTIVITY/SECTION
LEADERS TRAINED
outcomes from 2019 ers, smoke alarm testing) VOLUNTEER
10
that formed the basis TOTAL 2611
SAFETY
FRAMEWORK
of Melanie Sjoberg's NB this summation does not include 4WD SAFETY 11
President’s Report. assessment and project planning time, CHAINSAW 5
meeting and preparation time, coordinat-
ing volunteers, training or completion of REMOTE
FIRST AID
4
Images: Mark Scicluna forms for DEW.Friends of the Heysen 2019 in review WINTER 2020 • 11
WALKING THE TRAIL TRAIL PROMOTION OFFICE VOLUNTEER TIME
Our walking programme is critical The Friends Office is usually open
to the overall success of the Friends MEMBERSHIP 10.30-14.30 5 days per week with
and special thanks should be 2 volunteers per day.
Friends welcomed 222 new members to
conveyed to the Walk Committee
the organisation in 2019 (1230 in total). Office Volunteers engage in a raft of
that ensures it operates effectively.
behind-the-scenes administration
In 2019, our volunteer walk
TRAILWALKER that keeps the Friends, our walks
leaders coordinated: The magazine is published 4 times and promotional efforts ticking over.
• 27 Twilight walks, per year providing an essential, Importantly they provide advice and
high-quality promotional product information about walking the Heysen
• 38 TrailStarters;
carrying articles about walking and Trail; coordinate on-line shop orders;
• 50 TrailWalkers; maintenance along the Heysen Trail. manage Trailwalker postage; help
• 1 Extended Walk and 1 Rambler. Beyond our membership, we distribute publish website news items, such as
it free to Regional Visitor Centres, park closures for fire management, pest
Total 2019 Walk Registrations: 3932
Landholders and Service Providers control, and fire danger season.
Interestingly, over 66% register 2-4 that builds relationships and
weeks ahead and most members awareness about walking the Heysen. RECONCILIATION JOURNEY
register online with only 8% via
the office. Thanks go out to Greg Martin who Since Council decided to establish a
shepherded Trailwalker as editor Reconciliation group, the Friends has
Our End-to-End walk leaders have a over the past 2 years and encouraged commenced discussion with First Nations
special role in sharing the Friends consolidation of an editorial sub- leaders aiming to work collaboratively
ethos and encouraging involvement committee to actively source material. to learn more about the traditional
through regular chats along the Trail. lands that the Heysen Trail crosses.
End-to-End walks also provide an We also welcome our new editor
important revenue base that allows Josh West, who walked the Heysen FOHT has now formalised a
us to pursue opportunities aligned in 2018 and is inspired to share that Reconciliation Committee
with the objectives of the Friends. fondness of the Trail and hiking. nominating Anne Kirk as Chair
and that aims:
END-TO-END 2019 REGISTRATIONS DIGITAL • To acknowledge country and build
GROUP FIRST WALK FINAL WALK • WEBSITE: The Friends website is the an understanding of reconciliation
9* 58 59 most comprehensive online source of along the Heysen Trail;
10 36 44 information for walking the Trail: • Work with Traditional Owners,
conditions on the Trail, distances, where possible, so they can share
11 38 48 campsites, re-routes, regional their stories; and build connections
12 60 50 accommodation and transport and through trust and a willingness to
13 53 40 relevant notices about fire danger listen.
season and park closures. DEW
14 78 70 In consultation with Reconciliation
links direct to our site.
SA we identified an appropriate form
*Completion Year • FACEBOOK: Our page promoting the
of words that End-to-End Walk groups
Heysen Trail has over 5500 regular may use during their walks on different
The Walk Committee created an followers. It is used to promote our
exciting programme for 2020 so it is a sections of the trail.
events and wider activity such as
huge disappointment that the COVID-19 Walking SA Hiking Expo, DEW Park Future plans include:
Pandemic has curtailed our plans. of the Month, charity fundraisers • pursue connections with several
Our walk leaders are such a vital spark and health benefits of walking. identified Aboriginal contacts;
within the Friends that they are already
• APP: During 2019, we collaborated • continue to investigate location
conjuring up options and plans for 2021.
with international company of transition points of Traditional
Guthooks Guides to ensure that the Lands on the trail; and
Heysen Trail features on their new • share stories where appropriate.
73
app for Australia-NZ hiking guides.
Certificates & badges
issued to walkers
who completed the
Trail in 2019WINTER 2020 • 12
The End-to-End
story continues
Following on from and frankly, were overwhelmed by
their popularity. You can imagine
Julian Monfries' report our surprise, after advertising this
on the 'Original End-to- third End-to-End, when 144 walkers
End Walk', both Julian registered! Marshalling leaders from
End-to-End 1 and 2, and enlisting
and Dean Mortimer three large Genesis buses, we were,
continue the story. paradoxically, relieved when only 121
turned up on the first day.
BUILDING MOMENTUM End-to-End 3 finished in 2011, with
So, after finishing the first End-to-End, around 54 walkers completing the Trail.
what happened next? Not that much! It was this group, under the tutelage
of Simon, that introduced the idea of
Some walkers who hadn't finished their themes — something that has caught
Heysen journey joined informally to on with varying degrees of success
THE WARREN BONYTHON
complete the Trail — known as the amongst subsequent End-to-Enders.
HEYSEN TRAIL FOUNDATION
was established as the
'Millennium Catch-up Walk' (later
as End-to-End 2). Unfortunately, the Simon's article from TrailWalker
fundraising arm of the
group leader departed as soon as Spring 2011 perfectly summed up
Friends of the Heysen Trail
he had earned his Heysen honours; the experience.
in order to assist with the
development of the Heysen Trail luckily, Jerry Foster came to the rescue "What a wonderful journey it has been,
and other walking trails and led members from then on. Jerry traversing the Mt Lofty and Flinders
in South Australia. had played backup driver for his wife Ranges travelling through the historic
The Foundation is a Michelle, who walked and finished hinterland of South Australia. Sharing
registered charity with tax with End-to-End 1. In fact, it was the each other's company, trading adventures
deductible donations being Fosters who wrote the End-to-End and celebrating in every town we stopped.
directed towards improving the reference which all leaders still use Saturday nights were the scene of home-
environment along the Trail. today. Jerry also recruited the much- cooked feasts hosted by community
loved Gavin from Rufus Bus Service, and service clubs. Christmas in July at
who remain our transport providers for Burra brought new life to the 12 days
every End-to-Ender in their final year. of Christmas, and the "Royal Variety"
MAKE YOUR The End-to-End 2 walking group are performance at Wirrabara showed just
TAX-DEDUCTIBLE known for completing the shortest how talented walkers are.
DONATION ONLINE
ever day on the Trail. It was decided In the last week of walking the excitement
wbheysentrailfoundation.org.au after nearly becoming bogged en builds, the mountain vistas lift the gaze,
route to the destination, the bus would and the scenery catches your breath. The
In addition, lifetime membership
divert, and hikers would instead attack walking is easy, and the nights are a
of the Foundation can also be
obtained by payment of $25 the stretch from Warren Gorge in the party. The last day is a wild melange of
through the website. east (now a common route). After fun, frolic and trail memories with just a
having walked four kilometres to arrive tincture of sadness that it has ended.
at the Trail, and less than 100 metres
Having witnessed two previous finishes,
on the Trail itself, they aborted the day,
I can attest that the end of the trail is
with conditions too miserable and the
the beginning of new adventures and the
threat of hypothermia too real.
continuation of friendships. After six years
HARNESSING EARLY SUCCESS you have accumulated walking partners
for life, and if you have finished the Trail,
In April 2006, End-to-End 3 began on
you have succumbed to its charms and
the back of the success of the first
wiles. A love affair with a living trail that
iteration, with Simon Cameron taking
will endure to the last horizon."
the helm. At this stage, the Friends
hadn't thought to do them every year, End-to-End 4 followed after a three-
year hiatus, with Nick Langsford andThe End-to-End story continues WINTER 2020 • 13
Heather Nimmo coordinating efforts.
The team were again shocked to
have an incredible 202 walkers book Welcome New Members
on! At that point, we stopped
accepting registrations.
The President and the Council would like to extend a warm welcome
Again, as 'luck' would have it due to to the following 55 members who have joined the Friends since the
the previous day's wet and windy last edition of Trailwalker.
conditions, only 144 turned up,
though Genesis still had to come to Colleen Rodney Dodd Jennifer Kim Schwarz
the party with four large buses. End- Adriaanse Meacham
Philip Evans Olive Schwarz
to-End 4 culminated in 2014, with
Walter Eric Felgate Mary Mitchell Cass Selwood
74 walkers crossing the finish line; 40
Adriaanse Lorraine
of these completing the entire Trail. Harry Gillespie Charlie
Glenda Moore Selwood
GOING ANNUAL Rakesh Gopal
Battersby Robin Moore
Sara Grafton Matilda
Since the Friends launched the concept Tracy Belling Peter Moriarty Selwood
of annual walking groups in 2010, the David Grimes
Linda Bowes Yolande Morris Melanie
organisation has organised 11 new Trish Hansen
Sandra Suzanne Napier Selwood
Walking Groups along the Heysen (six Glen Harrison
Braithwaite Mick Sims
of which have since finished), while Paul Nicholas
another two had planned to commence Tricia Bubner Tanya Harrison
Chris Robson Tanya Stacey
this year, but were postponed due to Scott Chandler Georgie Hart
Leonie Robson Kenneth Stuart
the COVID-19 outbreak. Barbara John Hart
Jarrod Rueff Tori Tassone
All of these groups share special Christensen Trish Hensley
Jannett Russ Peter Wood
moments on the Trail, but some seem Susan Clark Joe Hoogland
to have a little more fortune than Alison Russell Rebecca Wu
Kate Cotellessa Dara Lancaster
others. End-to-End 5 has the dubious Clayton Schwarz Keryn Yorke
honour of walking the longest ever Daryl Curyer Kev McDonald
Darren Schwarz Stephen Young
reroute after the Wirrabara fires Sharon Curyer Robin McEgan
brushed through the region in 2014.
End-to-End 11 too have endured their
share of obstacles with lingering
injuries plaguing both hikers and
leaders alike. In contrast, End-to-End
7 (otherwise known as the Blessed 7s) BLINMAN, SA
CAMEL TREKS
could barely recall a day when they
had to utilise their wet weather gear
throughout the entire northbound
FLINDERS & BEYOND
trip. Realising the variable fortunes
of the walk, End-to-End 13 decided to Join us in 2021 on a trek Walking treks fully catered. Swags
and transfers included. No roads, no
embrace their stereotypically ominous that completes the Heysen vehicles, no mobile reception; detach
number and select a black cat as Trail’s remote section from hectic everyday life and enjoy
‘Beyond Heysen’. an unforgettable experience that will
their mascot, while several members create memories to last a life time.
begin their day's journey by walking Explore hidden treasures of the
under a ladder. Flinders Ranges with camels carrying FOR MORE INFORMATION
your supplies. Trek through gum-lined
T: (08) 8648 3713
Astonishingly, End-to-Ends have creek beds, towering gorges, rare
E: info@flindersandbeyondcamels.com.au
geological formations and sparkling dry
become so popular that many book lakes. See native flora and fauna in its
out within hours of registrations natural habitat and enjoy a night sky
opening; competition is fierce! At laser show with astronomer Ryan.
last count, nearly 1,000 walkers have
participated in the programme, with
a number of walkers on their second
or third journeys along the Trail.
We must be doing something right!
The original article 'The original End-
to-End: 20 years on' can be found in
Autumn Trailwalker 2020.
Contact us for 2021 trekking datesArticle Title WINTER 2020 • 14
fitness in a variety of ways. However, I
The mental
believe we significantly undervalue the
wide-ranging benefits of the humble
walk and the dramatic impact it has on
and physical
our biochemistry, and therefore both
our physical and mental health.
What do you notice when you go for a
health effects
walk in your favourite national park, or
along the beach? A boost to your mood?
A feeling of increased energy (the
of walking
physical activity paradox — expending
energy makes us feel more energised)?
A sense of having a better perspective
on life’s worries? When you get into
a routine of regular walking do you
HELEN DONOVAN notice improved sleep and a tendency
to make healthier food choices?
It is all these things and more that led
me to a desire to better understand the
chemistry of the links between mental
health and physical health, and the more
I learn, the more interested I become.
“
Each choice we make has the
potential to influence our
biochemistry, which shapes
our next choice. I think of it
as a series of mini upward or
downward spirals.
”
Our daily health behaviours are a
complex interplay between routines,
our environment, and the cause
and effect of each preceding choice
(amongst other things, like our genetic
make-up). Each choice we make
has the potential to influence our
biochemistry, which shapes our next
choice. I think of it as a series of mini
upward or downward spirals.
We tend to be both proactive and
Photo: Philip Bell reactive in those choices (and much of
our decision-making is built into our
routines, which requires less conscious
decision-making). Let us look at just a
M
couple of biochemical impacts that you
create for your internal world when
Dr Helen Donovan, ost of us have had
you make the decision to include a
the experience of
Executive Director of going for a walk and daily walk.
Walking SA and Health noticing we feel a As we move toward the end of Autumn
Psychologist, highlights little (or a lot) better it is getting a little colder and wetter
at the end of it. We also have a broad
the mental and physical understanding that physical activity is
in the mornings, but today, you decide
to get up and go for a walk anyway —
benefits of walking. good for us and helps to build physical raincoat on. Your dog is especiallyThe mental and physical effects of walking WINTER 2020 • 15
happy and bounds up to you ready
to come with you. You smile at her
the Killer T cells. Previous studies
have shown walking for just 30 Keeping your
excitement, and so begins your
positive biochemical spiral. Like most
minutes increases the concentration
of Killer T cells in the body. Killer inspiration
systems in your body, that little smile
involves multiple systems, including
T cells roam around your body and
destroy cancer cells! I think that is
for the Trail
your brain, nerves and hormones. worth reading again — your humble Click on the icons
Your smile causes the release of daily walk is reducing your risk of
chemical messengers into your cancer. It also boosts the size of to view the online
nervous system that communicate to your hippocampus (the part of your accounts for these
your brain to let you know that you brain responsible for consolidating Heysen adventures.
are happy. This triggers the release of information from short-term memory
our ‘happy hormone’ trio: dopamine, to long-term memory) and buffers
serotonin and endorphins. This trio against memory loss and dementia.
helps you to relax and gives you a
Regular exercise, like walking, is also
little mood boost. Dopamine is a
correlated with improved self-efficacy,
motivator to continue with rewarding
your belief in your own ability to
behaviours (like walking and PLAN B (YOUTUBE)
influence events that effect your life
smiling!), serotonin helps to regulate
and control over the way these events Plan B's Youtube Page
your mood, and endorphins act on
are experienced. Regular walking
the opiate receptors in your brains,
helps us to feel we can accomplish
reducing pain and boosting pleasure.
more in our day, and in our life.
“ You exit your urban street and hit the
green space of your local park. As you
Stress, especially long walk through the park you are feeling JEZ (BLOG)
periods of it, weakens great from the positive biochemical
jez-heysen.blogspot.com
your immune system. cascade you have already created
By exercising, you are internally (any walk is a good walk!).
As you smell the eucalyptus, hear
reducing the production
the birds, and see the surrounding
of stress hormones and trees, you feel more relaxed. The
helping your immune mechanisms are not fully understood
system and general but walking in nature is associated with BANE OF THE TRAIL (BLOG)
wellbeing. even better health outcomes, including
reductions in cortisol levels, heart rate, baneofthetrail.ca/heysen-trail
” and blood pressure, and an overall
improvement in wellbeing. Some
You step out the door with Fido and research suggests the phytoncides
head to the park. On your way you (wood essential oils) released by trees
pass a couple of neighbours out and positively affect the human endocrine
about. You smile and nod hello (top and immune systems. NEANDERJOEL (BLOG)
up booster of happy hormones!).
People who walk regularly in their All this (and so much more) from neanderjoel.wordpress.com
neighbourhood tend to have higher enjoying a daily walk! So, where are
levels of social connectedness which you walking today? Check out
is related to increased wellbeing. Walking SA’s ‘find a place to walk’
database to explore somewhere new:
As you hit your stride you experience www.walkingsa.org.au/walk/find-a-
an extra boost in endorphins and a place-to-walk and keep an eye out for
decrease in your stress hormones, our work-in-progress, bringing you a CARL GREENSTREET (RAMBLR)
cortisol and adrenaline. Stress, new challenge: www.adelaide100.com
gstreet's Ramblr Account
especially long periods of it, weakens because guess what else increases
your immune system. By exercising, brain volume and brain health?
you are reducing the production New experiences!
of stress hormones and helping
your immune system and general
wellbeing. That boost in endorphins Dr Helen Donovan is the Executive
reduces the morning aches and pains Director of Walking SA and a Health TREKKING WEST (BLOG / YOUTUBE)
and you are feeling great. Next come Psychologist.
Trekking West PagesWINTER 2020 • 16
What hiking
taught me about
dealing with
social isolation
JOSH WEST
Photo: Josh West
Climbing to the Cruz de Ferro, Camino
Trail Ambassador Bans on non-essential intrastate, the proverb goes, silence is golden.
interstate and international travel Without the continuous torrent of
Josh West recaps his are already in effect here in Australia outside voices shaping our decision-
experiences with social and throughout much of the world. making, an often over-influenced inner
isolation on the trail. With our typical social liberties and voice can reinvent its message.
A
freedoms temporarily suspended,
Following weeks of wafting around the
many face losing their identity and
side from confronting a South Australian wilderness on my first
motivation.
previously untapped level multi-day solo hike, I finally felt ‘me’
of back pain, the most ‘Social isolation’ can feel like a dirty again. Status-hungry society no longer
challenging aspect of my phrase; however, if approached in impacted my thinking; my profession,
first multi-day solo hike the right frame of mind, this period income, education, degrees and
involved battling the hidden depths can present a bevy of benefits. The material possessions did not define
of social isolation. Initially, walking positives I’ve absorbed from solo me; my character stripped clean. I
for days between towns without any hiking, then subsequently repurposed could finally reassess who I was, what I
face-to-face interaction was unnerving, throughout my life, will help me wanted to be, and where I was going.
then jarring, then draining. Knowing navigate the imminent COVID-19
After re-emerging from isolation, I felt
I faced social solitude for up to a week shut-in. Here are a hatful of values I
surprisingly motivated and productive;
at a time left me feeling unsuspectedly developed from time spent in social
and I wasn’t the only one. Sir Isaac
deflated — this mental sluggishness isolation.
Newton discovered gravity while
was not a test I had expected to practising safe social distancing as the
REDEFINITION AND GROWTH
encounter. However, as the weeks plague impacted Europe in the mid-
went by, and the detachment became Embracing sustained periods of 1600s. Take your time; be patient; be
routine, I gradually discovered peaceful solitude — by taking the time kind to yourself. You may not reinvent
the many advantages of spending to stop, think and reflect — allows for the laws of motion, but you may just
uninterrupted periods in my own head. unforeseeable self-development. As reinvent yourself.What hiking taught me about dealing with social isolation WINTER 2020 • 17
LEARN THE VALUE OF The outbreak of COVID-19 holds home doesn’t demand such primal
INDEPENDENCE daunting health and economic simplicity, though, some modern
implications around the globe, but privileges may still have to wait.
The love, warmth and support
there are still positives we can collect Embracing minimalism isn’t always
from your nearest and dearest is an
from the rubble. After decades of easy, but it does get easier; and, when
extraordinarily beautiful thing, but
suffocation, the planet is finally our rituals finally return, an increased
so, I would say, is the nourishment
breathing again; communities are sense of gratitude, appreciation and
you give yourself. Developing
working together, and we have empathy will inevitably follow.
genuine independence, in the face
already begun building our resilience.
of isolated adversity, has galvanised
We must rely on our positivity, WHAT WE CAN ALL DO
my resilience.
humour, generosity and togetherness
By no means should ‘independence’ to see us through this pandemic and Stay safe, stay local, stay positive,
be taken as merely ‘looking out for propel us into the recovery phase. and for goodness sake, stay healthy.
number one’; hoarding essential Breaking the constant stream of Exercise! If possible, visit a nearby
supplies and other Machiavellian negative messaging goes a long way to park or cut a couple of laps of the
traits only generate panic and feeding that optimism. block. When you go for a walk, it’s not
unnecessary stress. Instead, just your body that benefits, the way
independence relates to having your EMBRACE MINIMALISM you think and feel changes too! The
own self-worth, confidence and Living without life’s routine world can appear less complicated
ability to govern yourself. refinements on the trail took some after a mind-cleansing stroll.
Despite all the challenges we face adjusting; especially when only the
in the near and distant future, barest of essentials squeezed into
my supply box. However, before
“
including people’s urge to clean out Set yourself up to be a
the toilet paper aisle, I know, with long, rationing became standard,
‘normality’ turned to indulgence, and better, rounded individual
patience and compassion, we will
rebuild; hopefully, with an enhanced luxury seemed almost unjustifiable. at the end of your isolation.
sense of open-mindedness. Daily showers were a distant memory,
TAKE THE POSITIVES OUT
cooked meals were eternally savoured,
bedsheets were a curious novelty and
”
OF EVERY SITUATION hot water flowing directly from a tap We’re all bracing for what is to come,
felt like alchemist-conjured sorcery. and it won’t be easy, but, if you have
It could be argued, that, as a society, the means, set yourself up to be a
we’re programmed to absorb better, rounded individual at the end
doom and gloom. We are regularly
exposed to abrupt headlines from
“ of your isolation.
newspapers, scandalous lead stories When our rituals finally And finally, if circumstances allow,
from 6 o’clock bulletins, shock jocks return, an increased sense of get out into the wilderness and
spewing confrontational bile and gratitude, appreciation and appreciate all the things you’ve taken
for granted. I know I am.
‘Karen from Facebook’ sharing her empathy will inevitably follow.
views. I can understand; outrage
sells. However, after inadvertently
distancing myself from these toxic
” If you are struggling with self-
mediums on the trail, I discovered Self-isolation on a hike requires isolation, seek help. Chat to friends,
that I became more open to seeing forfeiting everyday creature comforts; family and health professionals. If
the positives. fortunately, social distancing at it's urgent, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Southern Flinders Ranges
Wirrabara Forest Accommodation
Self-contained cottages for up to 8 people.
Welcoming Heysen Trail and
Mawson Trail Adventurers.
M 0428 827 774
E info@taralee.com.au
www.taralee.com.auWINTER 2020 • 18
ASK A HIKER
What is your secret
scroggin ingredient?
I like to include three
liquorice allsorts - you
know, the cubes with layers
Highly impractical in hot To be honest, I’m not a of candy and liquorice.
I don't have much of a
weather, but as far as I’m scroggin devotee, as it Each one is my reward for
sweet tooth, so I mostly
concerned, you can’t go past generally interferes with completing a particular
enjoy the savoury snacks
dark chocolate. It is a real my habit of talking challenge. I try to save the
(cashews and soy crisps
energy booster that contains incessantly. My favourite last one as my reward for
are such a great combo).
caffeine for a “fix” and variety is OP’s (other getting to the end.
But for me, every snack
increases endorphins, the people’s). The fact that bag needs a few Cool PETER WYN EN
feel good chemical, to give fellow walkers keep Mints! They are perfect Past Trailwalker Editor
you a quick pick-me-up. offering it to me may have for clearing out that
something to do with the horrible taste in your
JU DY MCADAM
opening sentence of my mouth after a store bought
Walk Leader answer. freeze-dried meal, and
Trailthinker
offer just enough of a Quiz Answers
DO M HENSCHKE
work out on the jaw to
Office Chair keep things interesting! 1. Mount Woodroffe
(Ngarutjaranya) 2.
PLA N B
David Unaipon ($50
Through-hiker banknote) 3. 1976 (9
km within the Cleland
Conservation Park)
4. Kapunda 5. 1977
No doubt about it; 6. Victoria Square
Starburst Snakes. After (Tarntanyangga),
traipsing through the Hindmarsh Square
wilderness and munching On End-to-End 5, I was (Mukata), Light Square
my way through fist-fulls of known as Carol with the (Wauwi), Hurtle
nuts, dried fruit and seeds, pantry in her backpack; Square (Tangkaira)
there may be nothing more along the trail I would I typically enjoy walking and Whitmore Square
satisfying as tucking into continously snack. I always in warmer climes, so (Iparrityi) 7. City
a gelatinous treat that I've include chocolate which what could be better than of Onkaparinga
dutifully saved for the final gives me that boost of chocolate that doesn’t melt. 8. 1986 (the same
march into camp. energy when I feel my M&Ms (pictured) for me. year the Friends
energy running low. was founded)
JOSH WEST SIM ON CA M ER ON
9. Larapinta Trail
Ambassador C AROL HOMEWOO D Heysen Highlights Author 10. New South Wales
Council MemberBook Review WINTER 2020 • 19
Book and Mt Lofty in SA. This influx led
to a gradual blossoming of group
Review: The walks led along tracks previously
established by bush workers, bridle
ways of the paths or livestock routes.
Bushwalker EARLY CLUBS
The book explores the growing
Melissa Harper, The awareness for organisation among
ways of the Bushwalker: walkers late in the 19th-century.
On foot in Australia As such, planning became more
(UNSW Press, 2007) common among sporting groups and
throughout other parts of society, like
trade unions and political parties.
Melanie Sjoberg
investigates
how the role of a “
bushwalker has A deep-felt concern
emanated from some
developed over the of the early groups that
centuries. allowing just anyone to join
a walk would diminish the
B
bushwalking ethos.
ooks are my vice, and
second-hand bookshops
As we isolate and keep physically
distant under COVID-19, the
”
nurture my passion. When importance of walking – preferably in The early stories show that it was
that shop offers coffee and nature – seems even more evident. predominantly professional city types
snacks, I'm at serious risk of heading bush for some escapism or
randomly discovering yet another read COLONIAL RAMBLING clear air and invokes a reality that you
that piques my interest. The Ways of A fascinating section from the earliest needed mobility, transport and finances
the Bushwalker provides an intriguing days of the colony outlines experiences, to be able to get away from the city.
guide to the evolution of bushwalking elicited from diaries, that find early They also indicate that walks tended to
groups in Australia, presenting an settlement walkers spending long preclude women whose social situation
insight into precursors to the Friends hours, as they explored the rivers, ordinarily required genteel activity
of Heysen Trail and other groups. lakes, hills and mountains of their new under a chaperone or that working
surroundings. The author suggests this women were too busily consumed with
The author acknowledges upfront feeding and caring for large families.
that the book doesn't cover Aboriginal harked back to practices from mother
England and the Edwardian tradition of These features are not meant to suggest
walking practice, albeit recognising early settlers and farmers weren't also
that it is an essential element of their taking a turn around the gardens; though
I suspect that background probably making inroads into the bush, but
culture and imbued with ceremonial simply that walking was not their focus.
meaning. Rather, the story traces didn't apply to the convict population.
bushwalking origins from colonial Quaint diary remarks date back to 1788 EARLY WALKS
times and fundamentally locates the outlining forays into the woods with a
gun, food and making a camp by a fire. Tracing the formal establishment
practice as a choice to walk for leisure;
of bushwalking as an activity, the
thereby available to those with a
WALKING GUIDES author identifies the eastern states
certain social and economic position.
I particularly appreciated the outline – specifically NSW and Victoria – as
In the early days, it seems bushwalking the logical forerunners due to the
of Alice Mansfield as one of the earliest
had difficulties being taken seriously geography, conducive climate and
'walking guides' around Victoria's Mt
because 'walking' was viewed as such growing population. It aligned with
Buffalo from the 1890s to 1930s. As you
an "...everyday, mundane..." activity. a burgeoning interest and desire to
might imagine for the role of women
In 2020 Australia, the practice is still explore the landscape and champion
during that period, she apparently
part of our every day, but now it's most Australian nature. Harper also
caused a stir while wearing a pantsuit.
definitely taken seriously. The annual situates the period post WW1 and
Ausplay survey shows that walking The availability of experienced guides 1930 Depression as engendering an
is the number one activity across the seemed to ignite the development of emphasis on physical health and "racial
community and bushwalking comes in tourism-type destinations from Mt strength" thus promoting outdoor
at seven just after Aussie Rules Football Buffalo to Healesville and Mt Macedon, activity as part of a wider nationalist
(Ausplay SA Data 31 October 2019). the Blue Mountains, Mt Kosciusko trend in community outlook.You can also read
