1 Jul (Mon) 2024: PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH HALL SPRINGWOOD Our Guest Speaker will be Tracie McMahon. Tracie's passions are nature and community. Bushwalking is just one way that Tracie indulges her love of nature. Tracie will be presenting her nature journals for the Grampians, South West Trail Tasmainia,Larapinta and Drysdale National Park in East Kimberly WA. The journals capture Tracie's impressions of 'place' in words, sketches and watercolours.' Tea/Coffee and supper provided for a gold coin donation. 7:00 pm for a 7:30 pm start. Alison H to assist with supper.

1 Jul (Mon) 2024: SPRINGWOOD MEETING SUPPER (E) Assist with supper 2 litre milk. Packet or plate of nibbles. Collect supper box from basement. Set up. Collect refund for purchases from orange jar. Clean up afterwards and return box to basement 1 July Alison Hey 5 August John Hodson Paul Daley 2 September Marie Jamieson and Thais 7 October Brian Steven’s 4 November Wendy Woodley December Christmas Party 2025 3 February Jessie 3 March John Martin 7 April Jeanette 5 May Terry McCann Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

3 Jul (Wed) 2024: BLACKHEATH (E) Easy Walk, between 6-7k, elevation 340 ascent. Great views, side track to Hat Hill trig. 9am start, bring morning tea. Drive through Blackheath, turn right into Hat Hill Rd. Meeting in Hat Hill Rd just past the turn off from the Great Western Highway, Hill Rd is tared to the start of Perry's Lookdown Rd. Parking is limited so may need to car pool to the start of the walk. Limit: 15. Map: Mt WIlson.

4 Jul (Thu) 2024: RICHMOND (E-M) Cycle from North Richmond car park up Bells Line of Road, left at Redbank Road, Greggs Road, Grose Vale Road to Kurrajong Village for morning tea. Return Comleroy Road, Slopes Road, Crooked Lane and Bells Line of Road to North Richmond for lunch. Bring your own or buy from the shops. Road bikes, 25-30km Limit: 12. Map: Gregorys.

4 Jul (Thu) 2024: SYDNEY (E) CITY RAMBLE - CUSTOMS HOUSE TO MILLERS POINT. I am sure most of us have been to Circular Quay and The Rocks on numerous occasions. However, using an excellent guide from the City of Sydney there is a fair chance I can show you a few places you haven't been before, or at least not for a while. We should be able to have lunch in one of the pubs in The Rocks. After lunch I plan to extend the walk by going across the Cahill Expressway and meandering through the Botanic Gardens. However, if people didn't want to do this then there a number of good and now free museums in the vicinity - the Justice and Police Musem and the Museum of Sydney. This will not be a big day in terms of distance walked - my estimate 5 to 6kms - but please note there are some steps and steep inclines at some points. - Limit: 15. Map: Parramatta River.

6 Jul (Sat) 2024: COLO RIVER (M, Kayak) Paddle the Colo River from Putty Road towards the Upper Colo 30km with fast flowing water and portage involved. Please bring morning tea and lunch Limit: 8. Map: Lower Portland.

6 Jul (Sat) 2024: EXPLORERS RESERVE LAPSTONE (E) Volunteer Bushcare activity 9:30-12:30. Volunteers are always needed so please come along if you can spare a morning. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite bush care officer. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants who book on will have their details forwarded to the relevant bush care officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

Introduction Walk

7 Jul (Sun) 2024: WENTWORTH FALLS (E) From the parking area we'll walk to Den Fenella which is a short but beautiful little glen, with waterfalls. The track ends at the cliff edge. Then we'll use the lovely Udercliff/Overcliff track to reach Wentworth Falls itself. The track down to the middle of the falls, is steep but easy if taken slowly. Wentworth Falls is one of the longest falls in the mountains. Once back at the top of the falls, we'll have an optional, short detour to Rocket Point for better views of the whole falls. This section could be medium grade. I haven't done it for a long time but I remember the views it gave were magical. We'll go back up via a section of Darwins Walk past Weeping Rock to return to the cars. About 5 kms but with lots to see. Valley views are magnificent. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

7 Jul (Sun) 2024: LEONAY-LAPSTONE-MT PORTAL LOOP (M-H) This walk starts at the Nepean River, ascends to Knapsack reserve, and follows the old rail/tram routes to Glenbrook Gorge. It then descends into the gorge and ascends the other side to Tunnel View Lookout. From there, we proceed to Mt Portal Lookout, then back down into the gorge, and follow the Nepean River back to the start. The walk includes many good lookouts and historical features such as Knapsack Viaduct, zig zag rail, old tram route, and funicular railway ruins. The walk is about 13 km with approximately 400 m elevation gain, mostly on track, but the off-track sections have very steep climbs, including a hand-over-hand down climb on a fixed rope. It’s a walk I have done many times and would love to share as my first lead walk with the club. Limit: 8. Map: Penrith.

10 Jul (Wed) 2024: SPRINGWOOD (E-M) A half day circuit walk in Birdwood Gully: 6 km approx: Buttenshaw Park and Birdwood Gully are the headwaters of Springwood Creek. We will follow Springwood Creek to a side creek with a pool and water fall 4km approx. We will then go on to Springwood Cemetery, adding another 2km approx. to the walk. Then return via a loop up Birdwood Gully Creek to our cars, completing the circuit. Bring morning tea. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood.

11 Jul (Thu) 2024: LAWSON (M) LAWSON (M) Lawson to Hazelbrook (yes, downhill!) via Lawson swamp, requiring a car shuffle. 3 hours. Along a ridge west of Binnowee Drive, ( can divert to see the axe grooves on nearby ridge) down to swamp and out via skink track. Up to 4-ways and down Bennett's f/t to tributary of Hazo creek. To f/t at end of Halls Pde. About 5 kms with approx. 100 mtr elevation. Bring morning tea. Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba. Diana L 0432619305 diana.r.levy@gmail.com Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba.

11 Jul (Thu) 2024: PROSPECT TO CANLEY VALE (M, Cycle) Cycle the Prospect Reservoir to Canley Vale loop. Approximately 35 km almost entirely on bike paths that are generally flat. We will cycle clockwise from Prospect Reservoir, east to Guilford where we will have a coffee break before heading south to Cabramatta for lunch at a Vietnamese restaurant (or bring your own lunch). After lunch we will head west to Abbotsbury and then north back to Prospect. Limit: 16. Map: Gregory.

12 Jul (Fri) 2024: WOODFORD GLEN, WOODFORD (E) Volunteer Bushcare Activity 9am-12:30pm Please come along if you can spare a morning. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more details. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

13 Jul (Sat) 2024: FRASERS CREEK YELLOWROCK (M) Bushcare Activity. Please volunteer if you can spare the time to help care for the bush we love! This is a full day activity involving some off track walking and walking along a creek treating Crofton and looking for African Olive. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants will be provided with full training and equipment but will be expected to carry their own backpack with adequate water, food, first aid kit etc and to have robust footwear. The details of members who book on to this activity will be forwarded to the relevant Council Bushcare Officer who will be in touch with more details in the week prior to the activity. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

Introduction Walk

13 Jul (Sat) 2024: IKARA HEAD (MT VIC) (E) A reasonably easy walk on track with a spectacular view at the end. On the way back we can visit Giraween Cave for lunch, and if people are keen, cross the valley to return on the Ikara Head fire trail. Great for new members, and children. Between 6-8 km depending on options. Limit: 9. Map: Mount Wilson.

14 Jul (Sun) 2024: SHARPES CREEK AND GLOUCESTER RIVER TRACKS (M) Sharpes Creek - Moderately difficult, Sharpes Creek walking track features rainforest, scenic river views, wildlife, and birdwatching in Barrington Tops National Park near Gloucester. Grade 4 NP website 4.5km 2hrs. Gloucester River Track - Grade 4 NP website 1hr Sign onto this walk before 13th July. Limit: 8. Map: Gloucester Tops.

Introduction Walk

14 Jul (Sun) 2024: SURPRISES ABOVE WOLGAN VALLEY (EM) If you've never seen the pagodas of The Gardens of Stone, then this fairly easy walk at a leisurely pace is for you. Firstly we'll stop at a lookout to admire the Wolgan Valley. We'll drive a short way to Blackfellows Hand Cave [Maiyingu Marragu] to do a short walk to a really impressive rock wall with handprints on it and a little waterfall. Then we'll walk along the firetrail to a beautiful, side valley with amazing moss and lichen covered walls and little dead ends where small waterfalls come down from mini canyons. A magic place especially after all the rain we've had. Continue walking up the firetrail for about 2 km to the Temple of Doom area. Despite the name this area of rocks is wonderful. It's a short way off the road to a collection of outstanding pagoda rocks. Here you can just sit and enjoy, climb pagodas or explore a bit. Return the same way to the cars. Probably about 7 or 8 km. Adventurous children welcome Limit: 16. Map: Cullen Bullen.

14-18 Jul (Sun-Thu) 2024: BARRINGTON TOPS (E-M-H) A recce into the Barrington Tops area. I am booked in for a week at Monkerai and will be doing a bit of hiking in the area prior to NavShield. If anyone is interested in joining me for some or all of the walks it is always more enjoyable and safer in company. Individual day walks are now on the program if you just want to book into 1 or 2. We will try and carpool from near Monkerai or Dungog depending on our destination. All areas are supposed to be accessible by 2WD but given recent rain some changes may have to be made to the program. Day 1 14/7 - Sharpes Creek walk and Gloucester River track. Approx. 7km Day 2 15/7 - Gloucester Falls Track, Antarctic Beech Forest walk, Gloucester Tops circuit, River walking trail. Approx. 8km Day 3 16/7 - Blue Gum Trail and Rocky Crossing (if accessible). Approx.14km. Possibly a side trip to Ladies Well. Day 4 17/7 - Hidden Treasure Track and Basin loop. 11km Day 5 16/7 - Mountaineer-Glowang trail - 15km one way. I’ll walk a few hours in then turn around. Probably won’t make the whole 15km each way (maybe 10-12km depending on terrain). Limit: 8. Map: TBA.

15 Jul (Mon) 2024: GLOUCESTER TOPS CIRCUIT (M) This circuit includes the Antarctic Beech Forest walk, Gloucester Falls Track and River Walking Track. 8km, 3-5 hours, Grade 4 NP website. https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/gloucester-tops-circuit If you book on after 13/7/24, please call Julie to confirm meeting times and locations as I will have no computer access from 14/7. Limit: 8. Map: Gloucester Tops.

16 Jul (Tue) 2024: DEVLIN RD, CASTLEREAGHH (E, Kayak) CHANGED FROM LAKE WALLACE TO CASTLEREAGH - Weather conditions are more favourable in Penrith for Tuesday. 2 -3 hours paddling including a break for morning tea. Must have own hard shell kayak and PFD. Limit: 10. Map: PENRITH.

16 Jul (Tue) 2024: ROCKY CROSSING (M) Starting at Williams River picnic area we head upstream to Rocky Crossing, a magical waterfall on the Williams River. Return via the Blue Gum Track. There are bridge works happening along the track, but it should be a simple matter to cross the small gullies without accessing the bridges. 14km 6-8 hours Grade 4 NP website https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/rocky-crossing-walk Please note if you book onto this walk after 13/7, please ring Julie to confirm meeting times and locations as I will be unable to access my computer after this date. Limit: 8. Map: Chichester, Carrabolla and Barrington Tops 1:25000.

17 Jul (Wed) 2024: GLENBROOK (E-M) A half day circuit walk: 7km approx: We will have a look at the Ice Cream Cave then onto Chambers Lookout with views to the Blue Labyrinth. Next a walk through an up market area of Glenbrook, through a tunnel under G.W. Highway to the Zig Zag Railway, past the old Lucasville Railway Platform to the new Top Points Lookout Tower. From there down the Zag into Tunnel Gully, and then over the tunnel to Darks Common via the Ventricular Tramway. Checking the train timetable we may see the mountain commuter trains enter Glenbrook Gorge tunnel from the Bluff Lookout. We may even see the spectacular Moorakoo single drop falls across Glenbrook Gorge. Then onto Ross Lookout and the cars. Bring morning tea. Limit: 16. Map: Penrith.

17 Jul (Wed) 2024: HIDDEN TREASURE TRACK AND BASIN LOOP (E-M) Take a walk through the rainforest along Hidden Treasure track in Copeland Tops State Conservation Area, near Gloucester. You'll pass remnants of the area's mining heritage, including a historic boiler and disused mine entrance. The Basin loop is 7km and the Hidden Treasure Track is 4.5km. We will combine these for a 4hr walk Grade 3 NP website. https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/hidden-treasure-track https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/basin-loop-track Please note if you join this walk after 13/7, please call Julie to confirm meeting times and locations as I won’t have computer access after this date. Limit: 8. Map: Gloucester 1:25000.

18 Jul (Thu) 2024: LIONS HEAD (M) This walk is now FULL. If you wish to register you will be put on the waiting list. This walk follows the cliff line along Kings Tableland to the Lions Head lookout, offering great views into the Kedumba Valley and beyond. Forget Lincoln Rock! Approx 7 Km return, mostly flat with some easy hills. It is all on track, though it can be a little rough in some spots, mainly towards the end. Limit: 8. Map: Jamison.

18 Jul (Thu) 2024: MOUNTAINEER - GLOWANG TRAIL (M) Moderate Mountaineer-Glowang trail, near Wangat Road, offers scenic mountain views across Gloucester Tops wilderness in Barrington Tops National Park, between Gloucester and Dungog. The full walk is 15km one-way. My plan is just to walk in as far as people are comfortable, then turn around and walk back out. I would hope to do between 8-12km depending upon terrain. Grade 4 NP website. https://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/mountaineerglowang-trail Please note, if you book onto this activity after 13/7/24, please ring Julie to confirm meeting time and location as I won’t have computer access after this date. Limit: 8. Map: Gloucester Tops.

18 Jul (Thu) 2024: RICHMOND (E-M, cycle) Richmond to Windsor. mostly flat, 35km approx. Back roads and cycle paths, suitable for road bikes. Cycle along Triangle Lane, Powells Lane, Edwards Road, back down Cornwell's Lane Road, behind RAAF base and up Cupitt's Lane then hopefully cycle path into Windsor(due to road closures and crater creations we have to amend part of the route). Morning tea at cafe, then cycle back. Bring lunch to have at Smith Park. Limit: 12. Map: Gregorys.

20 Jul (Sat) 2024: KITTYHAWK SWAMP, WENTWORTH FALLS (E) Volunteer Bushcare Activity 9am-12pm. Please come along if you can help as volunteers are always needed, and there is no expectation of ongoing commitment. No experience is necessary as all equipment and training will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more details. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

20 Jul (Sat) 2024: NORTH FAULCONBRIDGE BLUE GUM AREA (M) This walk isn't hard but the track is eroded in places and there are trip hazards in the ferns. However I've done it twice already and survived intact. The pace will be slow enough to negotiate the difficulties. Come and do the walk in the area that we're trying to get National Parks to take over. Start behind Faulconbridge school and descend to pretty Peggys Pool and Waterfall. Just below this is a very nice swimming pool called Freezing Hole where we found some grinding grooves. Then continue along or near the creek through the Blue Gums to the very impressive Meeks Falls where you have the option of walking to the bottom. These are named after the original owner who also made the steps down to Peggys Pool in the late 1800s. Return the same way. About 6 km Limit: 20. Map: Springwood .

20-21 Jul (Sat - Sun) 2024: NAVSHIELD (E-M-H) Every year Bush Search and Rescue NSW (BSAR) organises and runs the Australian Emergency Services Wilderness Navigation Shield or NavShield. The 2024 event will be held 20-21 July 2024. Bushwalking clubs can participate as a team of 2-4 people. You don't need to be an expert navigater to participate, but you'll get heaps of experience. More information: https://www.bsar.org.au/navshield/ Limit: 12. Map: supplied at the event.

Introduction Walk

21 Jul (Sun) 2024: LOWER/ MID MOUNTAINS HOT SPOTS (E) This walk takes in lots of little interesting places. Distance is probably less than 5 km walking but more driving. After carpooling from Faulconbridge, our first stop is a very short walk to pretty Lady Martins Bath at Linden which has lots of history. Then we'll walk a section of the original 1814 Coxs Rd not usually seen, imagining the difficulties those first road builders encountered. From Woodford Station carpark, we'll walk along the highway to see the remains of railway workers' cottages and have morning tea at a little picnic area which was once very popular. Admire Woodford Academy across the highway. We'll continue on to Kings Tableland where a short walk takes us to a wonderful rock shelf with views to Sydney, amazing rock formations and many aboriginal grinding groves as well as a habitation cave. Returning back down the mountains, we'll stop at Bulls Camp to see signs of convict times as well as a sandstone wall and culvert going under the present highway which is a section of the 1832 road building. After this we can visit huge Kings Cave at Linden and a rock art site in Faulconbridge before returning to the cars. Limit: 16. Map: Springwood and Katoomba.

23 Jul (Tue) 2024: COLO DISTRICT (H) Cycling. 55km of all public road, including 50% unsealed roads. 700+ vm climbing. Upper Colo Rd pleasant meanders - up Colo Heights Rd - along and down the disparate Wheelbarrow Ridge Rd thru Parr State Conservation Area and Comleroy Nature preserve, to Bridge to Nowhere at Skeleton Rocks Reserve. Lower Colo Rd is 11km of sand and hammering over corrugations to finish. Leader has training in bicycle maintenance + one other former pro bicycle mechanic is coming along. Pictorial TR of the last time we cycled this route, via my public facebook page, is here; https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02J3xmXr3RBhMLQiDzjoWbHkSoLzEjr3XhGhYtLocQGP3cYduKMXdH1ZeAnp2sPS3Ml&id=680679306 Limit: 8. Map: Colo 1:100 000.

24 Jul (Wed) 2024: HAZELBROOK (E-M) A half day circuit walk: 6 km approx: We will descend the unsealed Winbourne Road to Lake Woodford, visiting some aboriginal art on the way. We will traverse the western arm of the lake, from the lake weir to the end of the arm with views over the lake. We will then visit the slightly difficult to get at Gemini Falls in Woodford Creek and then ascend west up a spur to the cars. Bring morning tea. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

25 Jul (Thu) 2024: PENRITH RIVER CIRCUIT REGENTVILLE (E-M) Cycle from Emu Plains to Nepean River Circuit, Regentville area. Around 30km. Morning tea at a local cafe, cycle back up to Glenbrook for lunch. Limit: 12. Map: Penrith.

25 Jul (Thu) 2024: SHAWS SWAMP CIRCUIT (E-M) This walk is now FULL. If you wish to register you will be put on the waiting list. There exists a network of tracks around the upper part of Shaws Creek, that offer some pleasant walking through a variety of landscapes, including among some majestic Blue Gums along the creek itself. This is a fairly short walk, maybe 5 kilometers, totally on track. Meet at the end of Whitecross Road Winmalee at 9:00 AM. Expect to be finished before 1:00 PM, after which you can go home or stick around and have lunch in the bush. Limit: 12. Map: Springwood.

27 Jul (Sat) 2024: EPPING + DUNDAS VALLEY (M) 3 or 5 hour rogaine held at night. Teams of 2-5 Entry fee is $45 per person "the course provides a nice opportunity to hone your nocturnal navigation skills close to civilisation with a mix of streets, parks and trails. Explore the beautiful pockets of remnant blue gum high forest along Terrys Creek and The Ponds Creek." Link - https://nswrogaining.org/2024-nightgaine/ Limit: 5. Map: Eastwood-Carlingford.

27 Jul (Sat) 2024: GLENBROOK (M-H-Exp) Explore a tributary of Campfire Creek, Glenbrook. Look for a pass up to Red Hands Ridge and then follow the track back down to Kanuka Brook and Duckhole. Follow Glenbrook Creek back down to the causeway. Approx 9kms, mostly off track. This is an easier off track walk so please give me a call if you are new to off track walking and we can discuss if this is suitable for you. Limit: 8. Map: Penrith.

27 Jul (Sat) 2024: POPE'S GLEN BLACKHEATH (E) 9am-12pm. Volunteer Bushcare activity. Volunteers are always needed so please book on if you can spare a morning. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more details. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

Introduction Walk

28 Jul (Sun) 2024: NORTH WENTWORTH FALLS (EM) A short morning walk to a true surprise. Water Nymph Dell is stuck between houses not too far from the station. Once it was a popular swimming and picnic area but is now almost forgotten and neglected. The track down is eroded in places but we'll take it very slowly. Once down, we walk along a very impressive cliff to 2 waterfalls where the creek once formed a great swimming pool. On the other side is a good overhang for morning tea. We'll continue along the cliff lines to go up a gully to the cars. We'll need to do a short car swap. Only about 2 km but down and up. Children welcome. Anyone wanting more I've discovered another hidden waterfall and amphitheatre behind North Hazelbrook about 1.5 km return on easy firefrails. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

2-18 Aug (Fri - Sun) 2024: LARAPINTA (M-H, Food drops) Classic long walk in the amazing West MacDonnell ranges west of Alice Springs. We will start at Mt Sonder and walk back to Standley Chasm. Water is available at most campsites, and food drops are arranged with transport through a company in Alice. We fly into Alice on Friday 2nd August, start the trek on Sunday 17th August. NT now charges for camping, around $250 (track fee and 12 campsites). Transport and food drops are extra (around $160). Qantas flights are around $400 each way. NOTE: Arrangements have now been made and paid for. We do have a waiting list in case of cancellations. Limit: 8. Map: Free maps available online.

3 Aug (Sat) 2024: EXPLORERS RESERVE LAPSTONE (E) Explorers Reserve Lapstone 9:30am-12:30pm. This is a volunteer Bushcare activity coordinated by BMCC and participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity. No experience is necessary and all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. Please volunteer if you can spare a morning as volunteers are always needed and no ongoing commitment is expected. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

4 Aug (Sun) 2024: BLACKHEATH BRAESIDE TRACK (E) We will start the walk from Braeside Road and follow the fire trail to Evans Lookout Rd and then down to Evans Lookout. We then take the Cliff Top Walk and head back towards Govetts Leap, turning off approx half way along onto the Braeside Track and back to the cars. Great views from the Cliff Top Track, and the Braeside Track is very pretty and follows the creek. Approx 2-3 hours of walking, plus a break for morning tea. Most of the walk is easy but the Cliff Top Track does have some steps up and down. Limit: 12. Map: Black.

5 Aug (Mon) 2024: PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH HALL SPRINGWOOD Our guest speaker for this month is Mark Ley from Blue Mountains Bird Observers (BMBO) who presents all things birds. Bring your questions and recorded bird calls for identification, as well as learn about current BMBO projects and our unique bird species in the Blue Mountains. Learn how we, as bushwalkers, may be able to support those projects, and, be better equipped for the Great Aussie Bird Count this Spring! Tea/Coffee and Supper provided for a gold coin donation. John H and Paul D to organise supper.

6 Aug (Tue) 2024: KATOOMBA (M) From Solitary Restaurant, hike towards Leura cascades then down the Amphitheatre Track down to Leura Forest, along the Federal Pass and then back along the Dardanelles Pass to the Giant stairs. Up to Echo Point and then onto the Prince Henry track to return to the cars. Slow to moderate paced walk with plenty of time to enjoy the forest and the scenery. Multiple steps, approx. 500m elevation and 10km distance Bring morning tea and lunch Limit: 12. Map: Katoomba.

9 Aug (Fri) 2024: WOODFORD GLEN, WOODFORD (E) Woodford Glen 9am-12:30pm. This is a volunteer Bushcare activity coordinated by BMCC and participants' details will be forward to the relevant Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare officer on the day. Please help out if you can spare a morning as volunteers are always needed and there is no expectation of ongoing commitment. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

10 Aug (Sat) 2024: MIDDLE HARBOUR - GARIGAL NATIONAL PARK (M-H) Walking from Davidson Park, Roseville to Balmoral Beach, Mosman. We'll see water views, beaches, costal bushland and rock formations, including the Natural Bridge. Total distance, including an initial walk from the bus stop is about 19kms, hence the grading. Total ascent and descent is around 300m, spread throughout the walk. Depending on the time we make and how we are feeling we can shorten the walk by finishing at The Spit, which will reduce distance by about 2.5km. Limit: 10. Map: Parramatta River.

11 Aug (Sun) 2024: REMOTE AREA FIRST AID COURSE (Training ) The SBC Committee is pleased to offer you an opportunity to get/renew your Remote Area First Aid, with a wonderful trainer, Frances Davidson, at the Pulse First Aid training room in Hazelbrook. There is a compulsory online component and a full day of practical exercises, including 'in the field' scenarios. The full course usually costs $300. It has been offered to SBC for $150. The committee has reduced this to $100 per individual. You do need to be a full member to take advantage of this training. Limit: 15. Map: Katoomba .

16 Aug (Fri) 2024: CHARLES DARWIN BUSHCARE (E) Volunteer Bushcare Activity 9am-12pm. Volunteers are always needed so please come along if you can spare a morning. There is no expectation of ongoing commitment. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. This is an external activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more details. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

16 Aug (Fri) 2024: CHARLES DARWIN BUSHCARE (E) Charles Darwin Bushcare, Wentworth Falls. This is a volunteer Bushcare activity coordinated by BMCC. Paticipants' details will be forwarded to the Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more information. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the Bushcare Officer who will be onsite on the day. Volunteers are always needed so please consider helping out if you can spare a morning. No ongoing commitment is expected. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

17 Aug (Sat) 2024: KITTYHAWK SWAMP, WENTWORTH FALLS (E) Kittyhawk Swamp 9am-12pm. This is a volunteer Bushcare activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more details. There is no experience necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the Bushcare Officer who will be onsite on the day. Volunteers are always needed so please consider helping out if you can spare a morning. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

17 Aug (Sat) 2024: NEPEAN RIVER PENRITH (H, kayak) Kayaking from Penrith to Erskine Creek and return 25km. please bring morning tea and lunch. Limit: 8. Map: Penrith.

18 Aug (Sun) 2024: REMOTE AREA FIRST AID COURSE (Training ) The SBC Committee is pleased to offer you an opportunity to get/renew your Remote Area First Aid, with a wonderful trainer, Frances Davidson, at the Pulse First Aid training room in Hazelbrook. There is a compulsory online component and a full day of practical exercises, including 'in the field' scenarios. The full course usually costs $300. It has been offered to SBC for $150. The committee has reduced this to $100 per individual. You do need to be a full member to take advantage of this training. Limit: 15. Map: Katoomba .

22 Aug (Thu) 2024: SYDNEY (E) CITY RAMBLE - COCKATOO ISLAND and the COMIC WALK: Cockatoo Island is a UNESCO World Heritage and National Heritage listed island located in the middle of beautiful Sydney Harbour. The island has a rich history as a shipbuilding yard, a Commonwealth naval base, and a convict island. We will circumnavigate the island and soak in the history, while also enjoying harbour views. There are a number of reasonably priced eating options on Cockatoo Island. After lunch if people still feel energetic, we'll take a ferry across to Milsons Point and do the Comic Walk - an open-air exhibition featuring sculptures that pay homage to the golden age of Australian comics and iconic figures from early 20th century Australian literature. If you take both options, you'll be walking something over 4kms with a few stairs but overall fairly minimal ascent/descent. Limit: 15. Map: Parramatta River.

24 Aug (Sat) 2024: POPES GLEN BLACKHEATH (E) Popes Glen Bushcare 9am-12pm. This is a volunteer activity coordinated by BMCC. Participants' details will be forwarded to the relevant Bushcare Officer who will be in touch in the week prior to the activity with more information. No experience is necessary as all training and equipment will be provided by the onsite Bushcare Officer. Volunteers are always needed so please consider helping out if you can spare a morning. Limit: 8. Map: google maps.

1 Sep (Sun) 2024: NAVIGATION TRAINING, LINDEN (E-M, off track) Learn how to use a compass to find and follow a bearing, and practice map reading to explore a ridge just north of Linden. Beginner navigators as well as experienced people are welcome. Bring a compass, map supplied. Limit: 10. Map: Katoomba, Springwood.

7 Sep (Sat) 2024: SPRING FESTIVAL (E) Springwood Spring Festival previously known as Foundation Day. We will have a stall and provide info to anyone who's interested. A good opportunity for us to be seen in the community. We will need helpers for the day to man the stall, chat to the public and hang out for an hour or so. Book on if you can help out. 8am-4pm. Limit: 8. Map: Springwood.

7-8 Sep (Sat - Sun) 2024: WOLLANGAMBE TO DUMBANO (M, off track,pack walk) An overnight walk to check out the waratahs this year. Starting out on the usual Wollangambe Crater track, cross the Wollangambe at approx 936 488 and head north along a ridge to the Dumbano fire trail. Camp on Dumbano Creek, check out the waratahs, and head back on the Gooch's Crater track. It's a bit early for waratahs, but a great excuse to camp out and we'll see if they are worth coming back to see in bloom. About 10-11 km each way. Limit: 8. Map: Wollangambe.

14 Sep (Sat) 2024: WINDSOR (H, kayak) Kayaking from Windsor to North Richmond and return. 40 km with the tide both ways. Please bring P.F.D. morning tea and lunch. Limit: 6. Map: Kurrajong.

15 Sep (Sun) 2024: GRAND CANYON BLACKHEATH (E) This can be an introduction walk This walk is one of the best in the mountains. It has a fair bit of down and up but the track and steps are all in excellent repair and the pace will accommodate slower walkers. It's about 6 km round walk not counting the short optional bits. We'll start at Evans Lookout for great views before heading down. At one point we can do an optional extra to a spur overlooking Beauchamp Falls which you can't walk to anymore. Then down a lovely rainforest gully to the creek and up the Grand Canyon with it's high cliffs and waterfalls. The second option is to leave the main track and go up as far as possible to meet the canyon proper where it becomes very narrow. Back on the track we ascend until we're walking on a path looking down into the dark, narrow canyon. See where the canyoners descend on ropes. When the creek rises to the track level we walk behind a beautiful waterfall and through a tunnel to a great overhang. The ascent back to the cars is up Neates Glen which is also very lovely. What more could you want? Kids welcome. Limit: 16. Map: Katoomba.

22 Sep (Sun) 2024: GLOWORM TUNNEL NEWNES PLATEAU (E) This can be an introduction walk. Another wonderful day out. In the morning we'll drive to the Glowworm Tunnel on the Newnes Plateau and walk along the old train line through the tunnel on the new boardwalks. Hopefully the glowworms will be doing their thing. Bring a torch for this. Then the option is to go back through the tunnel or walk up the canyon beside it but this section is medium. Return to the cars the same way. About 4 km. See fantastic pagodas as well. We even have the option of going through a section where the creek has gone underground. After lunch we'll drive back a little way to the Dry Canyon, also called Wolgan View or Nobles Canyon. This is another 4 km return walk through an amazingly proper canyon with dark sections where the sculptured walls nearly meet overhead. A few scrambly bits but nothing difficult if done slowly. A great way to experience a canyon without getting wet. And another pagoda heaven. Great for adventurous children. Limit: 20. Map: Cullen Bullen.

22 Sep (Sun) 2024: REMOTE AREA FIRST AID COURSE (Training ) The SBC Committee is pleased to offer you an opportunity to get/renew your Remote Area First Aid, with a wonderful trainer, Frances Davidson, at the Pulse First Aid training room in Hazelbrook. There is a compulsory online component and a full day of practical exercises, including 'in the field' scenarios. The full course usually costs $300. It has been offered to SBC for $150. The committee has reduced this to $100 per individual. You do need to be a full member to take advantage of this training. Limit: 15. Map: Katoomba .

29 Sep (Sun) 2024: SOUTH FAULCONBRIDGE (M) Start by going down an unmanned but pretty creek at South Faulconbridge. We'll stop to see a very good kangaroo carving and and then admire an excellent sandstone overhang with great rock shapes and colours often called Rainbow Cave. Have morning tea at lovely Clarinda Falls which is one of my favourites. Continue up to Numantia Falls, another impressively high waterfall where recent rains seem to have gouged out a swimming hole for those who are game. Return the same way with another stop at Clarinda Falls for lunch. Less than 7 km Limit: 15. Map: Springwood .

29 Sep-4 Oct 2024 (Sun - Fri) 2024: HIDDEN CREEK JERVIS BAY (M, kayak,walk,cycle) Five nights at Hidden Creek Caravan Park overlooking Currambene Creek. Tent or caravan on a campsites we have to ourselves.$20 per person per night. Cabins are also available at a discounted rate. We will be doing a number of day paddles in the surrounding waterways with opportunities for cycling, walking and swimming. Limit: 16. Map: Jervis bay.

10 Oct (Thu) 2024: LEURA BUSH REGEN MORNING (E) Come and do a morning of bush regeneration at a meditation property called Brahma Kamaris situated along Hat Hill Rd just before the dirt starts. All equipment sullpied and stay for a complimentary vegetarian lunch. The activity is in the bush around the pretty Stone Cottage where we'll have morning tea. The cottage gardens should be at their best. All within earshot of a babbling creek. Limit: 8. Map: Katoomba .

16-25 Oct (Wed-Fri) 2024: NORTHERN JAPAN (E-M-H) THIS WALK IS FULL. My plan is to do a variety of day walks in the northern part of Japan (parts of Hokkaido and Aomori). It will be autumn-leaf time and scenery should be fabulous. We will stay in hotels/inns/AirBnB/hostels and hire vehicles to travel. I will lead most walks, but I hope to have a couple of guided walks too. At the moment there are few other details I can give because we need to have a meeting asap of those interested. The meeting will need to be early March so please "book" on the program soon to show your interest. This will not be a binding commitment to participate. Dates given are a little fluid. Limit: 8. Map: .

17-22 Nov (Sun - Fri) 2024: CANBERRA BICYCLE RIDING (E-M-Exp) Staying at a Van Park where you can choose to camp, caravan or cabin. We will be doing a series of day rides on the magnificent and highly varied network of bike paths around Canberra- where navigation can sometimes be a challenge, hence exploratory. Opportunities for enjoying cafes and restaurants. Cycling distances vary between 30 and 70km. Flexible and cruisey. No pressure to ride everyday. Limit: 20. Map: Canberra Cycling map.