THE HAPPY WANDERER

THE HAPPY WANDERER OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE ROODEPOORT HIKING CLUB DIE VROLIKE WANDELAAR www.rhc.org.za CHAIRMAN’S BOOT We are almost into 2007, which means quite a few th things! Our 25 Anniversary is upon us; Subs are due! AGM time in February – this is YOUR chance to make a difference to your club, are you man or lady enough to join the committee? Two members have indicated that they will be stepping down. Please remember that everyone has to be re-elected by YOU the members. Margie Frayne is busy with our Dinner Dance in August, we need to contact all present and past RHC members – do you perhaps know of any who might have changed address / contact number? She needs your help in this quest. The club will also be running a few fundraisers in this regard: th -Fungal Walk with Marieka Gryzenhout [18 Feb] -Drumming Evening in March [Date to be confirmed] -Visit to Brenthurst Gardens [Date to be confirmed] Liza Stewart is trying to raise Sponsorship for the Grand Traverse. What we are looking for is sponsorship for December 2006 transport for both the GT hikers and the re-supply crew. Seeing that we intend to support a charity namely South African National Council for the Blind – it will be a great idea to get sponsors to sponsor GT hikers monetarily – all proceeds going to this worthy Charity. Please contact Liza or myself should you be able to help! We are also looking at getting a visual impaired person to join the Grand Traverse Hikers! Things are really getting exciting! Congratulations to the RHC Trophy winners of 2006: Hilke Kruger earned the ―Boot‖ hiking a massive 402kms John Ingram earned the ―Takkie‖ for hiking most Sunday Walks. Ian Brown earned the ―Considerable Award‖ for time, effort and hard work preparing for the Grand Traverse. I would like to encourage all RHC members past and present to make 2007 a year to remember! Yours in Hiking Aurora IMPORTANT INFORMATION INSIDE THIS ISSUE R.H.C. BANKING DETAILS STANDARD BANK: FOURWAYS CROSSING A/C no. 227104048 Branch Code 009953 Please fax or e-mail proof of payment with your name and reference to Angela Cicatello at (011) 706 3528 or angelac@discoverymail.co.za 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6 -7. 8. 9 10. 11. 12-17 CHAIRMAN’S BOOT COMMITTEE MEMBERS; NEW MEMBERS MELVILLE KOPPIES MAHAI, DRAKENSBERG – Amanda Filocha GO BANANAS YEAR-END FUNCTION – Margie Frayne MZIKI – Lyn Doyle LESOBO – Merle Cohen GRAND TRAVERSE UPDATE – Ian Brown NEW ZEALAND – Liza Stewart AGM WEBMASTER PORTFOLIO AGM ACTIVITIES PROGRAM R.H.C. POSTAL ADDRESS Post Net Suite 203 Private bag X19 Gardenview 2047 THE HAPPY WANDERER 1 COMMITTEE MEMBERS PRESIDENT CHAIRPERSON DAY WALKS HIKE ACTIVITIES MEMBERSHIPS NEWSLETTER PR / CLUB NIGHTS SECRETARY TRAINING TREASURER WEBMASTER Paddy Frayne Aurora Gianchino John Ingram David Sheer Mario Gianchino Amanda Filocha Liza Stewart Merle Cohen Ian Brown Angela Cicatello Wim Sturkenboom (012) 255- 5130 082 551 7451 072 208 1542 082 825 5972 082 452 9027 082 418 0926 082 903 9848 083 748 6628 083 267 3711 082 490 7227 083 647 8286 082 373 5814 (011) 672-0248 (011) 640-5019 (011) 489 5730 (011) 463 2295 (011) 485 5282 (011) 787 6343 frayne@icon.co.za aurora.gianchino@virginactive.co.za toughgirl@telkomsa.net johni@netstar.altech.co.za dashprod@telkomsa.net Mario_gg@discoverymail.co.za amanda.filocha@mediashop.co.za wsturkenboom@multichoice.co.za medan@mweb.co.za ian.brown@commsys.co.za angelac@discoverymail.co.za webmaster@rhc.co.za MELVILLE KOPPIES wild varieties: the Wild Peach, the Wild Olive, Common Wild Currant, Common Wild Pear, Wild Elder, Wild Gardenia, Wild Medlar. There are beautiful views and it‘s easy for young children to hike. Contributed by Amanda Filocha Source www.veld.org.za The Club has Melville Koppies in the program for a st “Day Hike” on 21 October 2007, so bring the family! Take a walk in the veld, enjoy the twittering of birds and the rustling of grass in the breeze, brush against indigenous shrubs, listen to the natural quietness. Walk on a path cut out of a rocky hilltop just five kilometres from the city centre. Sound impossible? Well, it's not, it's Johannesburg's rather wonderful Melville Koppies. Just a suburb or two from the city centre, when you walk through the grand gates in Judith Road, Emmarentia, you'll be stepping back half a million years into Johannesburg's history, when stone age man left his tools at the top of the ridge. The area consists of three sections: the central section of 60 hectares is a nature reserve, open to the public three Sundays each month; an open section to the west, Melville Koppies West, an area of 100 hectares; and another open section of 10 hectares, Melville Koppies East, south-east of the main section. The nature reserve is a treat: over 200 birds have been recorded there, a range of small mammals have made it their home - mongooses, genets, civets, hares, hedgehogs, shrews - as well as various lizards, geckos, chameleons and tortoises. The area is ancient - the oldest rock on earth, greenstone, at 3 000 million years, is on the hill but overlaid by granite. Otherwise, the stony ridge consists of quartzite and shale. It is estimated that the quartzite ridges are 2.9 billion years old. The Koppies were proclaimed a nature reserve in 1959, and when in 1963 an Iron Age furnace was uncovered, the nature reserve became a national monument. There are eight plant communities on the Koppies - from several different grasslands to shrubland to woodland. Trees flourish on the Koppie. Some of them only grow on quartzite ridges the Transvaal Milkplum and Wild Apricot. There are other NEW MEMBERS WELCOME TO THE FOLLOWING NEW MEMBERS: JANE FLETCHER WISHING YOU MANY YEARS OF HAPPY HIKING WITH RHC!!! THE HAPPY WANDERER 2 MAHAI – DRAKENSBERG 22 – 25 September 06 By Amanda Filocha nd th Mahai is a KZN Parks Board camp site and is situated in the Royal Natal National Park in the Drakensberg. Royal Natal has some of the most splendid mountain scenery in Africa. The main feature is the world famous Amphitheatre, a rock wall approximately five km in length, and 500m high. Above the amphitheatre is Mont-auxSources peak where, as its name implies, the Orange River starts its long journey to the Atlantic Ocean and the Thukela River cascades down the face of the amphitheatre, in one of the highest waterfalls in the world, on its way to the Indian Ocean. This was not a club hike but a long awaited return to Mahai for me and Marek. We both had a day‘s leave on the Friday prior to the September long weekend and took a leisurely drive to Mahai. We stopped off at Little Switzerland for a lazy lunch and then checked into the camp at about 3pm on that sunny Friday afternoon. We had not been to Mahai for about 6 years and I was pleasantly surprised to see that the excellent high standard was still maintained at the camp. Being a long weekend, the camp was about 95% full but we were lucky enough to be allocated a lovely campsite with electricity, our own water on tap and camped under some majestic pine trees. We made a small braai for supper that evening and slowly settled into the peacefulness that the mountains evoke. It is amazing that a camp which is so full, can be so quiet and by 9pm one could hardly believe that there were so many people around us. Saturday morning was gloriously sunny and the Drakensberg shimmered in various shades of green all around us. Our campsite was next to the Mahai River and an early morning visitor had come across the river and scaled the fence to come and investigate. The Baboon‘s dusty fingerprints were clearly displayed on one of our black containers and fortunately he did not have time to work out how to operate the ―clip locks‖! Angela and Jeff, who were staying at a B&B outside Harrismith, joined us at 8am. After coffee and some discussion we decided to do the Thukela Gorge hike. Seeing that the four of us had agreed that this was going to be laid back hiking weekend, we drove to the car park, about 3 km away where the trail starts! It‘s a 14 km hike from there, into the gorge, to the chain ladder at the confluence of the Thukela and the Eastern Buttress gully and back to the car park. We made numerous stops on our way into the gorge to have some snacks and to take in the spectacular scenery around us. The path follows the course of the Thukela and eventually descends right down to the river where one is spoilt for choice of pools to stop off at. Jeff took dozens of photos of the rock pools with their varying shades of large pebbles. None of us were brave enough to swim. The icy water caused ―pins and needles‖ in our bare feet within minutes, when we dangled them in the pools. Policeman‘s Helmet on the right and the Eastern Buttress to our left were vividly etched against the clear blue sky and became more and more dramatic as we hiked deeper into the gorge. Although this is a relatively easy hike and it was the third time that Marek and I did it, we all enjoyed it tremendously. After visiting Tendele in the afternoon we made a potjie and settled down for a relaxing evening. The four of us did two easy hikes, rolled into one, on Sunday, Tiger Falls and Cascades. The trouble with doing an easy trail is that one encounters far too many people. We had a few chuckles about the strange shoes (pink sandles with sequins….Italian leather loafers) that some of these ―day trippers‖ go hiking in……ag nee man! Still, it was a perfect day and a pleasure to be out there. The great thing about Mahai is that one is spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding which trails to do. There are the easy ones like Thukela Gorge, Gudu Bush Falls and Fairy Glen. Then, if one‘s after a challenge, there‘s Cannibal Cave, Lion Buttress, The Crack (to Witsieshoek) or Surprise Ridge to name but a few. Unfortunately the old Royal Natal Hotel, which used to have such a charming Colonial ambiance, is still closed. During our last visit, 6 years ago, it was open and we watched an exciting rugby match between the Boks and the All Blacks there. According to one of the Mahai Camp Wardens that I spoke to, there are rumours about the hotel being refurbished and re-opened which will be great for campers at Mahai that want a bit of luxury mixed in with their camping. There is trout hatchery and trout dam and fishing is allowed in the dam once a license has been bought from the visitors‘ centre. The shop at the visitors centre is well stocked and you can even buy a new pair of hiking boots there, as Jeff decided to do. The club has booked Mahai for September 2007. So if you have not been, do yourself a favor and go! This well maintained camp-site is in one of the most beautiful locations in our country and once you‘ve been there, you‘ll always want to return to this special place. This was our third visit and we‘ll definitely be back! THE HAPPY WANDERER 3 GO BANANAS contributed by Aurora Gianchino After Reading THIS, you'll NEVER look at a banana in the same way again! Bananas, containing three natural sugars - sucrose, fructose and glucose combined with fiber, a banana gives an instant, sustained and substantial boost of energy. Research has proven that just two bananas provide enough energy for a strenuous 90-minute workout. No wonder the banana is the number one fruit with the world's leading athletes. But energy isn't the only way a banana can help us keep fit. It can also help overcome or prevent a substantial number of illnesses and conditions, making it a must to add to our daily diet. Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier. PMS: Forget the pills -- eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood. Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia. Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it the perfect way to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit's ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke. Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert. Constipation: High in fibre, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives. Hangovers: One of the quickest ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system. Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief. Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness. Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation. Nerves: Bananas are high in B vitamins that help calm the nervous system. Overweight and at work: Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and chips. Researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady. Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a "cooling" fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand, for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature. Smoking: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassium and magnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body's water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a highpotassium banana snack. Strokes: According to research in "The New England Journal of Medicine," eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%! So, a banana really is a natural remedy for many ills. When you compare it to an apple, it has four times the protein, twice the carbohydrates, three times the phosphorus, five times the vitamin A and iron, and twice the other vitamins and minerals. It is also rich in potassium and is one of the best value foods around. So maybe its time to change that well-known phrase so that we say, "A banana a day keeps the doctor away!" THE HAPPY WANDERER 4 The RHC 2006 Year End Function By Margie Frayne It has become almost a given that it rains on the RHC ―Xmas braai‖, so much so that the Committee has found it difficult to find a venue that provides suitable shelter for the inevitable. The Committee even tried moving the date from the end of November to the beginning of Nov, but that didn‘t ensure better weather, and we still got wet. In desperation the Committee decided to move the venue right out of and away from Gauteng! This year‘s Year End Function was held at a delightful bushveld venue, called Khutaba, near Nylstroom……and what do you know, it paid off! It rained before and after the weekend, but not on the weekend – and the resultant cloudy weather went a long way towards providing cooler walking weather and the most spectacular sunsets while we sat around the fireplace both evenings. Close on 30 RHC members gathered together for a most enjoyable weekend. The accommodation at Khutaba is extraordinarily comfortable, with a variety of different designs of sleeping quarters, 4 different lapas - all of them big - and good ablutions, with piping hot water-but more delightful than that, glass sliding doors on the showers! What a WOW! For once in a lifetime I did not have to wrack my brains to find a way to prevent my clean clothes and dry towel from falling into the shower water! Hiking venue bathrooms are notoriously badly planned. Most of us hiked on Saturday – the energetic ones did the long hike of 14km, and the not so energetic ones accompanied 3 year old Samantha, to do the 4km walk. She made it, and so did we - just! The bushveld trees were spectacular due to good spring rains, and they were smothered with fresh new leaves in every possible colour of green. What a treat for the eyes. The birdsong was awesome, and the game viewing was good. The Saturday afternoon and early evening was given over to the trials and tribulations of the grand potjie-kos competition, and much fun and laughter was generated during the preparation and execution of said food. In between the antics and shenanigans of the crooked cooks, the crowd was initiated in and entertained by playing both Crocquet and Boullé / Petanque on the wide sand strip around the central fireplace of the lapa. A jolly time was had by all. When the food was ready we invited the owners of Khutaba to join us and be the judges of the potjies. They performed their task admirably amid howls of laughter and jeering from the crowd, and after the winners were announced they and their family joined us at our nicely laid out festive table. Need I add that everyone‘s potjies were delicious and everyone fully enjoyed a most delicious meal? The Piece de Resistance of the meal was a spectacular dessert bowl created in ice, and made by our Chief Aurora (even with her incapacitated arm), in which was served delicious fresh melon and berries. On Sunday we had a grand communal breakfast, and slowly throughout the day people reluctantly made their farewells to schlep back home to the big smoke. All those who attended the weekend declared that they had an excellent weekend away, and felt that this would be the right place for next year‘s function, so please, those of you who could not make it this year, do yourselves a favor, pencil this into your 2007 diaries and book early, so that you wont be disappointed, as there is going to be a bun-fight for places when the bookings open. WINNERS OF THE 2006 POTJIE KOS COMPETITION: 1 place – Paddy and Margie (Warthog potjie) nd 2 place – Ian Brown (Rooibok potjie) rd 3 place – Aurora and Mario (Chicken potjie) st As Paddy and Margie have won the competition twice now it, we need to consider whether a commission of inquiry is required! Should they be allowed to compete again? Your views please! The Editor There was a great turn of events during the award ceremony for this competition. We had only arranged 2 st small prizes – and thus were only going to have a 1 & nd 2 place. When the judges were discussing the prize winners, they spontaneously gave the Club the gift of ―A st free weekend for two‖ for the 1 prize. We were all quite stunned by their generosity. Paddy and Margie were really quite embarrassed to receive this prize and have since decided to give it to the Club to be raffled to th generate funds towards the 25 anniversary activities next year. The prize is worth about R420.00 and tickets will cost R20.00 each. The prize will be valid for the same weekend that the club has booked Kuthaba th next year, for 13 July 07 SO, PLEASE BUY A RAFFLE TICKET AS SOON AS YOU CAN!!! There is no restriction to the number of tickets you can take. Raffle tickets will be available at Club Nights from January 2007. Look at the website for photos of this beautiful venue which is only 2 hours from Jo’burg! Web address: www.kuthaba.co.za THE HAPPY WANDERER 5 MZIKI HIKE - 15th June 06 By Lyn Doyle Hikers: Eduard (leader) & Zelda Hanekom, Alwyn van Loggerenberg, Tiekie Mocke, José Lourenco, Hilke & Claudia Kruger, Lyn and Colin Doyle. allow it to cool overnight in order to be able to have drinking water for our hike the next day. The owner was duly contacted and we were supplied with containers of fresh water and ice for our cooler boxes. The shower was situated outside the hut and was a slatted structure. Being out in the open, we imagined that we were in the Garden of Eden as we pranced around in all our glory under a bucket shower. Water first had to be heated in buckets placed around the fire before we were able to enjoy this luxury, but the anticipation of the warm water awaiting us, was worth the wait. The toilet was a long drop, very clean and with a fabulous view, I might add. We could only hope that the locals weren‘t too interested in us as we performed our ablutions! Now the only real fear that we had was that some wild beast would prance on us! We had been warned to stay close to the hut because of the very real danger of predators and hippo in the area. Our first night was uneventful and we eventually fell asleep after a rather hearty braai. I must add Eduard makes the most delicious toasted sandwiches! And after watching him and some of the ladies preparing cheese, tomato and onion on thick yummy slices of white bread, my mouth began to water. I fairly drooled as I watched the sandwiches toasting over the fire! I couldn‘t resist the delicious aroma and commented that they looked deeeelicious! Well, I was promptly offered one, much to my delight. Well done Eduard! I would definitely recommend them to any hungry hiker. Day one dawned bright and early and we arose, fresh and excited. Our ranger, armed with a mean looking rifle, was already waiting for us. The weather was perfect and balmy and we all started off, in anticipation of what lay ahead. Open grassland, dune forest, freshwater pans and hippo paths. Beautiful trees such as the forest fig were to be seen. We also came across the large bones and a skull of a luckless buck, no doubt devoured by one or several leopard in the area. We were delighted as the 10km circuit route took us to an equally scenic and beautiful expanse of a clean and unspoilt coastline. Shells and other surprises lay scattered along the clean white sand. This day was interspersed with swimming, eating and just relaxing on the beach, absorbing the lovely warmth from the sun and always under the watchful eye of our ranger. One of our great surprises was coming across not only leopard spoor, but a rather large croc lying unobtrusively on the beach, very well camouflaged and looking very much like a large piece of driftwood. Thanks to the sharp eyes of our guide for spotting this. We could so easily have trodden on the creature as he lay directly in line with the area in which we were walking. Staring in utter disbelief at the enormous creature, we wondered what a croc would be doing here. I learnt later that it had escaped from the estuary at St Lucia and had since been captured. Anyway, we made a speedy getaway, all the This hike is a 3 day trail made up of circular routes, always ending at Mount Tabor, the base-camp. Excellent views are afforded along the trail and from the hut the view is equally as beautiful. The St Lucia Lake can be seen as well as the ocean at various vantage points. It is truly a wilderness experience and hopefully will remain as such. The journey took several hours longer than anticipated and after having arrived rather late in the afternoon, well after closing time, we were quite lucky to have found a ranger, ready and waiting, to take us to our hut. We had just missed the van that could have transported us to our lodgings. Our lodging happened to be a further 2 km hike from the parking area. Thus, loaded with hiking bags, cooler boxes etc, off we went...up and over a rather steep, well-covered sand dune. As you know, June is a rather freezing month, at least in Jo‘burg, that is, being the middle of winter, so we had arrived in thick, warm jerseys and overcoats. As we progressed, slipping and often stumbling, (and cursing, I might add!) sweat began to pour from our foreheads and we wished desperately that we had removed some of our outer clothing. Unfortunately we had no free hands and we were constantly changing sides in order to alleviate our uncomfortable load, never believing that this journey would end. It took us well over 45 minutes to get to our destination. At last we arrived, puffing and panting. There it was, our home for the weekend! A couple of the hikers greeted us, having arrived earlier on. The hut was an old radar station dating back to the Second World War. It was very basic, but had the necessary conveniences, comprising of beds with fairly comfortable mattresses, a two plate gas stove, kettle, cutlery, plates, etc. Unfortunately, the fridge was not working too well so we had to store our foodstuff in our cooler boxes. The hut accommodated up to eight people. On turning on the taps, we were greeted with foul smelling water and could only surmise that the tanks holding the water had a drowned rat (or a dead body of sorts floating around.) So we had to boil our water and THE HAPPY WANDERER 6 while keeping a beady eye on it. We suddenly came across an inhabited section of beach where holiday makers were enjoying themselves. Fisherman stood on rocks with rods ready to pull in their catch and children frolicked around, laughing and playing. We filled our bottles with water from one of the cloakrooms and continued our journey. The walk was not too tough and we arrived back at the hut late in the afternoon. We lit a fire and had a rather hearty meal. I must admit, the best part of any hike is being able to gorge on loads of ―lekker‖ goodies. Buckets of water were heated up and we took our showers in the falling shadows of a perfect day. Rustling leaves and crackling twigs kept us alert, and we oft thought that perhaps a leopard was ready to pounce! We imagined a 1000 pair of eyes watching us. We sat around chatting for awhile, eventually drifting inside and while some had the ability to fall into deep and dreamless sleeps, Colin and myself, being fairly light sleepers, were keenly aware of noises outside (and inside!) the hut. Far off sounds of hippo and night predators could be heard as we drifted off………. The second day of our hike, being Saturday, once again dawned bright and sunny. This was a loop, approximately 18km, taking us along the Mount Tabor Ridge through pine plantations and then into the Bokkie Valley. Our armed ranger, always alert, walked ahead of us. He wasn‘t a very talkative fella and seemingly never understood a word of English, until, that is, we dropped funny comments. Then he would burst into laughter. Quite a strange character! On this particular day, we were lucky enough to spot a couple of Kudu cows silhouetted against the horizon. They promptly galloped away as we approached. What a beautiful sight! There was a gentle haze surrounding the valleys and grassy slopes in the early morning but slowly dissipated as the day quickened. We eventually arrived at the beach. Here we espied a breathtaking view of rolling ocean, a beautiful expanse of white beach and solitude. At this point, many of the group, not being able to resist the urge, ran into the deliciously warm water and swam and enjoyed themselves, while others lay soaking up the sun or just enjoying the magnificent beauty of this beautiful place. All the time, our ranger kept a vigilant watch over us. As I was ambling towards a quiet spot in search of shells or items of interest, I spotted leopard spoor and a long line of them going in my direction. Well, needless to say, I made a hasty retreat back to the safety of the group! This really is a very real danger here as several trails of spoor had been spotted along the beach on several occasions. We enjoyed our lunch here and spent a little more time relaxing, wishing that time would stand still for a little longer. One could almost have imagined this to be an exotic hide-away. A really idyllic and tranquil place. Continuing with our journey along the beach, beautiful rock formations could be seen, millions of little shells scattered along the line of the water, crabs in abundance scuttling into the water and crashing waves falling into amazing pools, created by the force of the water. As time passed, as it always does when one is having a wonderful time, we all seemed to be lost in time. Some of the group walked apart from each other; lost deeply in thought, others chatted incessantly, or some just lost themselves in the magic of the moment. At some point, one of our party enquired whether she could remove the hermit crabs out of their homes so she could take the shells as souvenirs! But fortunately her request was denied on the grounds of cruelty! The shells here were truly lovely and unique and probably extinct in many coastal areas. It was a shame that the crabs were resident in some of them! Nevertheless, we arrived back at camp, weary but truly contented. It had been a long walk…… The view from the hut was also beautiful, I must add. The grunts of the hippos could be heard from a distance, as well as various other wild, unknown sounds. And as the day put the sun to bed, we could only ponder at the loveliness and wildness of this area. We all took a vote that evening not to hike the 3 day as it was a fairly long walk and would have taken a couple of hours and since we all stayed a fair distance from our homes, decided to leave early in the morning and head back to Jo‘burg. The walk would have taken us through indigenous forest past a fresh water pan where waterfowl, hippos and crocodiles could be seen and then on to the lakeshore of Lake St Lucia. We were truly sorry to have missed it and would have preferred to have done it possibly the first day or so. Colin and I travelled around St Lucia before returning and found this to be a truly magnificent area. This is a hike that says ―come again.‖ Very easy, and extremely relaxing, although a fair amount of fitness is required, as it does for most hikes. A holiday feeling prevails on this walk. It is no wonder, for the coastline is exquisite, unspoilt and unique. The sea is warm and inviting, and the beaches clean and deserted. All this, together with good company, good food and fine weather, made it a memorable hike! Lyn Doyle rd Wishing all of our members a Joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year! THE HAPPY WANDERER 7 LESOBA – by Merle Cohen Hikers: Merle Cohen, Dave Sheer, John Ingram, Derek Jonker, Susan du Plessis was at this point in the hike that we were witness to an incredible ―dog-fight‖ between two raptors, a falcon and a black eagle. The screeching, diving falcon continuously attacked the much larger eagle. The latter tactically avoiding the much quicker falcon by swerving and diving. We assumed that the falcon was protecting its territory or nest. The aerobatic display was a sight to remember and would, in our opinion, be on a par with seeing a kill in the Kruger. We decided to go into Clarens in the afternoon to watch the Boks face the All Blacks – what a good plan but such a bad result! We left in disgust before the game ended! Saturday night was very cold! We used the covered lapa, lighting the fire at the back and the braai outside. John made the most delicious lamb potjie which we demolished. Sunday was another crisp, sunny morning. Our challenge was another peak and an approximately 12 km hike. This was the yellow route and the markings just happened to be the same colour as the lichens on the rocks. What a muddle! We started off well enough but soon were in sixes and sevens about where the trail meandered. John and Dave decided to move upwards at an angle and to do the ―High Road‖. Merle, Susan and Derek decided to do the ―Low Road‖. Neither route was successful! John and Dave ended up at a point near the summit but could go no further. They retraced their footprints and then followed the other group‘s route. We eventually met up and after a breakfast stop, headed home. Susan and John decided to investigate a walledup cave. They phoned us an hour later to tell us that they had finally discovered the ―Lost Trail‖ We ended our weekend by having lunch and touring the art galleries in Clarens. A most enjoyable and worthwhile trip! We suggest you do this one next time it‘s on the program. We started the weekend with much trepidation! Not only had 5 people cancelled but we received a phone call from the trail owner on the Thursday evening, suggesting that we postpone our hike to another week-end. The reason was that they had had an unbelievable amount of rain. To compound matters the forecast for the weekend was cold and wet! In spite of these negative omens, we set off, undaunted, for the Eastern Free State. Are we glad we did, as Lesoba which is 22km from Clarens on the Fouriesburg Road, turned out to be a treat. Even though we arrived at nightfall, we could see that it was a gorgeous traditional Free State farmhouse. The accommodation, in rooms dotted around a grassy area, was basic but clean. There were two fully equipped kitchens, many showers and loos, a number of open braai areas and an enclosed lapa with a fireplace. The son-inlaw of the charming owner joined us on both nights to ―chew-the-fat‖. After a braai-dinner we waited with some concern for John and Susan. The night was extremely chilly and we huddled around the donkey-fire. They eventually arrived at 10.30pm and were very grateful for a hot cup of coffee and a muffin. Up early the next morning, we were happy that the morning was rainless and crisp and clear. After a quick coffee and rusks, the five of us set off on the 14km hike. The impressive backdrop of the Maluti Mountains in the distance and the challenge of climbing the sandstone cliffs spurred us on. The summit of the cliffs was reached after a half-hour‘s very stiff climb. We were rewarded with spectacular views of the snow-capped Malutis. We also overlooked the meandering Caledon River and could see the Lesotho settlement of Butha Buthe. Derek, who has knowledge of the area, told us that the plateau in front of us was Thaba Bosigo, Moshesh‘s hide-out. It was here that he held out against the Boers and also the English. After a short break, we continued on our way. We were accompanied by a black, one-eyed Labrador that loved playing ―fetch‖ with sticks, stones or bones. The featureless summit was enhanced by beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. There was a sharp descent and we then passed an amazing sandstone feature called Queen Victoria and it really was a good resemblance. It ARTHRITIS??? A drunken man, smelling heavily of beer sat down on a bus next to a Priest. The man's tie was stained; his face was plastered with red lipstick and a half empty bottle of whisky was sticking out of his torn coat pocket. He opened his newspaper and began reading. After a few minutes, the man turned to the priest and asked, "Say, Father, what causes arthritis?" The priest replied, "My Son, it's caused by loose living, being with cheap, wicked women, too much alcohol, contempt for your fellow man, and lack of bathing." The drunk muttered his response, "Well, I'll be damned," then returned to his paper. The priest, thinking about what he had said, nudged the man and apologized. "I'm very sorry. I didn't mean to be so abrupt. How long have you had arthritis?" The drunk answered, "I don't have it, Father. I was just reading here that the Pope does." THE HAPPY WANDERER 8 Update on the preparations for Grand Traverse of By Ian Brown the Drakensburg Mountains taking place in April 2007. Reconnaissance Trip #1 Ian, Dave, Jane and John did a recce of Bannersman‘s Pass in the Giant's Castle area on the weekend of September 9 to determine it's suitability as a re-supply route for the main party doing the Traverse. Starting to walk early Saturday morning it was a long gradual climb up to Bannersman‘s Hut but the weather was fine and hot and the vista of the mountains ahead of us made it an enjoyable hike, despite the amount of gear all of us were carrying (Ian and his damn vulture watching). The plan was to summit the pass on Saturday, pitch tent and sleep on the summit and descend on Sunday. We made the hut by 12h00 but along the way had met fellow hikers who told us that the Lesotho bandits had been up to their tricks and advised us not to camp at the top of the pass. It was then decided that Ian and Dave would ―pop‖ up the pass that afternoon while Jane and John remained at the hut to guard the gear. Ian and Dave duly climbed the pass and returned to the hut before nightfall. It was a tough climb but really rewarding as the views from the top were stunning. There was still a large amount of ice covering the mountains in Lesotho and with the afternoon sun reflecting off the ice it was quite a sight. We left the hut to begin the descent at about eight o'clock Sunday morning. We walked at a leisurely pace giving Jane time to photograph just about every flower that she came across. We made good time which allowed Ian and Jane time to have a plunge in one of the streams before making the return journey to Johannesburg.After discussions it was agreed that Bannersman‘s Pass would be suitable as a re-supply route but that it would be best to use the hut as a staging post. The re-supply party could hike to the hut, sleep overnight at the hut and then summit and descend in a single day having handed over the rations to the main hiking party. Reconnaissance Trip #2 Ian, Derek, Jane and Hilke did a recce of the Cathedral Peak area on the weekend of October 28 to try and locate a pass suitable for a re-supply route for the main party doing the Traverse. The plan was to hike and summit via the Tseketseke Pass on Saturday, pitch tent then descend using Cockade pass on Sunday morning. Unlike the long, slow climb to reach Bannersman‘s Pass we found in this area where we were into the real mountains a lot quicker at first. We took the route past Dorean, Albert and Ribbon Falls heading for the contour path near the Camel. Once on the contour path we headed for Tseketseke Hut located in the shadow of the Pyramid and at the foot of Cleft Peak. We spotted the hut once or twice on our approach but never actually found it. The trail was overgrown and it appeared that not many hikers had used this route in quite a while. We had lunch next to the Tseketseke River with Jane and Ian taking a dip to cool off. During our lunch break the weather started to close in with the Berg clouds gathering ominously on the summit above us. We had a scout around to try to find the hut and the trail leading up the pass but with no success. Unsure of what the weather was going to do and being unable to find the trail up the pass it was decided that we would rather push on to Cockade Pass. Again it was clear that not many hikers had ventured into this area and it was hard work hiking along the overgrown trail. But we pushed on and at about three thirty we finally found a site suitable to pitch our tents. There were two clearings right next to a river flowing down from the Pyramid, it was ideal. We pitched tent, had a swim then chatted until dinner time. The bad weather that we observed earlier looked like it had caught up with us but this huge rain filled cloud passed us by and we had a star filled sky to observe while we had our coffee before hitting the sleeping bags. We broke camp and started hiking early Sunday morning looking for the trail leading up Cockade Pass. But the trail we were hiking on was still overgrown and what other trails we came across were just as bad. We decided then to head back to base taking the route along the uMlambonja River passing Marble Baths and Neptune's pools along the way. This fortunately was easy hiking and we made good time even stopping for lunch and a swim along the way. Considering the state of the trails and the difficulty of hiking them it has been decided that neither of these two passes will be used as a re-supply route and we will need to do an additional recce in this area. Sponsorship Liza has been very busy and is currently working on obtaining sponsorship. She is looking for vehicles and drivers for use during the Traverse. This will mean transport to and from the hike for the main party plus a vehicle to be used by Wim and Liza who will be managing some of the logistics. Can help with this? Please contact Aurora (072 208 1542) or Liza (083 748 6628). Fund Raising th We need your help with fund raising for the 25 Anniversary Dinner Dance! Margie has already done a lot of work as mentioned in ―The Chairman‘s Boot‖ on the front page. Please contact Aurora (072 208 1542) or Margie (082 375 0918) if you can help in any way. THIS IS YOUR CLUB BECOME INVOLVED - THE MORE WHO HELP THE LESS WORK EVERYONE ELSE HAS TO DO THE HAPPY WANDERER 9 NEW ZEALAND By Liza Stewart far out they are. There is so much to tell about New Zealand that I will tell all about this beautiful country in chapters! LOOKING FOR A NEW WEBMASTER – ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS!!! New Zealand - land of ferns, kauri trees, lakes volcanoes and no straight roads - a land of four seasons in one day! Auckland is situated on the north island. It is a metropolitan city and also known as ―The City of Sails‖. The famous ―Sky Tower‖ is in the city center and when you are at the top you can see of kilometers in all directions. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Coramandel, which is on the other side of bay. You would say ―on the other side of the bay‖ but the other side is about 30km away. In and around Auckland are fifty-four volcanoes (dormant). The surrounding areas consist of vineyards, vegetable farms and beautiful beaches. Half an hour away (which took us two hours) is a beach called Murawai. This beach has black volcanic sand and what the New Zealander calls big waves (we would say small) and to my surprise I found some surfers with their long boards. When we left home the sun was shining and it was nice and warm, but as we came closer to Murawai it became misty, miserable and cold. We were wearing jerseys, hats and jackets. We watched in astonishment as these surfers walk into the water without a care in the world. I could hardly see a few feet in front of me the mist was so thick Up north on the east coast is The Bay of Islands. The bay consists of several islands (thus the name). People live on the island and work on the mainland. Early morning you see all these little boats jugging along bringing the people from the smaller islands and from the bigger Russell Island the ferry. Late afternoon it is the same procession all over again. Being on the east coast the sea is like a mirror, hardly a movement in the water. It is amazing to see. Even when the wind blows the water surface hardly moves. Coming from South Africa it was quite a sight to see. There are no shops allowed on the beaches. During the season there would be a few trailers selling drinks and ice cream. On the more popular larger beaches there might be a kiosk, which only opens for the season. The vegetation is beautiful. I have not seen trees in such wonderful shapes. Everywhere we went we found trees and parks. The most amazing of all were the toilets. They actually have competitions to find the town or suburb with the best facilities. Anywhere you go just follow the signs and you will find facilities. The facilities that are not manned are cleaned everyday no matter how The club is looking for a new webmaster to take over Wim Sturkenboom‘s responsibilities. Wim has been our webmaster for the past 5 years now and has done an excellent job – thanks Wim! Please have a look at the responsibilities for this portfolio which have been set out below. Please contact Aurora on 072 208 1542 if you are interested in taking over this portfolio. Your hiking club needs you! WEBMASTER PORTFOLIO Main responsibilities 1. Keep an eye on the availability / proper functioning of the club‘s website. 2. Keep the website up-to-date. This involves minor changes to the content of individual web pages and the upload of documents. 3. Maintain the hike database with submitted comments and photos. 4. Communicate with hosting provider in case of problems. 5. Handle emails for webmaster and for membership (the latter simply by forwarding them to the membership coordinator). 6. Organize or design/develop/implement new functionalities on the website (if requested). Secondary responsibilities 1. The webmaster is a member of the committee. As such, he/she is involved in the decision taking by the committee. Knowledge 1. General computer skills. 2. The most important tools are an editor and an ftp client. Knowledge how to use these is a must. 3. Experience with html, css, php and sql (preferably mysql) is a pre. 4. Experience in design, development and maintenance of database driven websites is a pre. Notes Since the end of 2004 the website is database driven (using apache, mysql and php) and all committee members can update the activities program and maintain the hike database. The website is currently going through an upgrade cycle to allow committee members to change the content of the individual pages and upload documents. This will hopefully be implemented by January 2007 and make the life of all committee members easier. THE HAPPY WANDERER 10 REMINDER TO ALL MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE THAT CLUB SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE DUE IN JANUARY 2007: JOINING FEE: R 130 (once off) MEMBERSHIP: R 125 per person (Family memberships are no longer available) PENSIONERS: R 70 per person CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 ARE FREE PLEASE FAX DEPOSIT SLIP TO ANGELA on (011) 706 3528! Notice of Annual General Meeting Of The Roodepoort Hiking Club 21st February 2007 at the Florida Library Auditorium at 7.30PM All members of the Roodepoort Hiking Club are cordially invited to attend the Annual General Meeting to be held on the specified date at the Florida Library Auditorium, Florida Roodepoort Agenda 1. Chairman’s Welcome. 2. Apologies 3. Acceptance of Minutes of previous AGM. 4. Chairman’s Report for 2006 5. Treasurers Report for 2006 6. Election of Office Bearers for 2007 7. General Business Snacks and wine shall be served Nomination for the Election Of Committee Members of Roodepoort Hiking Club Committee 2007 Portfolio President Chairperson Membership P/R Club Nights Hike Activities Day Walks Trail Building Treasurer Newsletter Webmaster Secretary Nomination Proposed by Seconded by Please discuss your nomination with the persons concerned in order to avoid embarrassment THE HAPPY WANDERER 11 THE HAPPY WANDERER 11 ROODEPOORT HIKING CLUB 2007 ACTIVITIES PROGRAM Date 17.01 21.01 Activity Club Night Sunday Day Walk Day Walks Description TBA Hennops # of Days Total distance Grading Distance to hike # of Places Costs Co-ordinator Liza John 082 825 5972 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 26.01 Mosamane Hiking Trail – Rosendal (Eastern Free State) 2 10 km variable Moderate ±300kms 12 M R170 P R150 V R220 08.02 Backpack/ Day Walks Enjoy the view to the Maluti mountains; follow the contours and sandstone cliffs. For something different, there is a ‗maze‘ and treasure hunt with bundu bashing on day 2. Barn accomm. braai, hot water (donkey). Family friendly! Wag’n Bietjie - Warmbath 2 Hike in the Waterberg, through indigenous forest, ravines with mountain streams. Lovely views. Base camp: wooden huts, electricity, pool. Overnight hut very basic, next to fountain. Family friendly! Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens – Fungi Walk AGM 14 km 8 km Easy to moderate ±200kms 10 M R170 P R150 V R220 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 18.02 Sunday Day Walk Club Night John 082 825 5972 Liza 083 748 6628 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 21.02 23.02 Day Walks Vergezient – Drakensberg Variety of hikes to choose from. Walk in the gorges with indigenous forest or up to the top with incredible views of the Berg every way you look. Very popular hike with excellent accommodation in barn house with full view of the Berg. 2 5 – 13.5 km Moderate to Difficult ±330kms 10 M R250 P R230 V R300 THE HAPPY WANDERER 12 Date 09.03 Activity Backpack Description Suikerbosrand - Heidelberg Diversity of terrains on escarpment, gorges, strong flowing mountain steams, lots of game. Yellowwood forests and waterfalls. Very popular hike, close to Joburg. Thabeng Bush Camp TBA Mokowane (Cycad) Trail Middleburg # of Days 2 Total distance 10 km 10 km Grading Moderate to Difficult Distance to hike ±150kms # of Places 10 Costs M R230 P R210 V R280 Co-ordinator Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 18.03 21.03 23.03 Sunday Day Walks Club Night Day Walks or Backpack 2 Day 8 km 5.5 km Backpack 16 km 14 km Easy ±250kms 8 and 8 M R180 P R160 John 082 825 5972 Liza Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 05.04. Backpack or Day Walks Rare cycad trees on tail. Walk through the mountains with stunning views across to Loskop and Olifants valley. Rock formations, ravines, dense indigenous forest. Base camp fully equipped. Overnight camp next to river, long drop, fresh water and wood. Family friendly! Malolotja - Swaziland 4 EASTER WEEK END Wilderness Trail or day hikes through this little known part of the Drakensberg. Great views, lots of river crossings, gorges and waterfalls. Carry everything for the backpack trail or stay in comfy log cabins at the base. Groenkloof TBA GRAND TRAVERSE – DRAKENSBERG The event in the RHC Calendar for 2007 – our 25th ANNIVERSARY Moderate to difficult V R230 Average 12 Difficult – 18 km per day ±450kms 10 and 10 Backpack: M R280 P R260 V R320 Dayhikes: M R550 P R530 V R600 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 15.04 18.04 22.04 Sunday Day Walks Club Night Backpack 14 250 Difficult ±400 14 M R250 V R500 John 082 825 5972 Liza Ian 082 490 7227 THE HAPPY WANDERER 13 Date Activity Description Very experienced hikers only! TBA Segwati Lodge Hoelhoek– Paul Roux # of Days Total distance Grading Distance to hike # of Places Costs Co-ordinator 16.05 20.05 25.05 Club Night Sunday Day Walks Day Walks Liza John 082 825 5972 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 2 13kms 7kms Moderate ±310kms 12 M R200 P R180 V R250 08.06 Day Walks Great thatch accomm. and stunning trail. Bridges, ladders, waterfalls. Tiaan Strydom special. Don‘t miss it. Good facilities. Family friendly! Slagthoek - Middelburg 2 Trail situated in the upper reaches of Olifants River, overlooking Wilge/ Olifants River confluence. Variety of game. Beautiful farm house, separate bedroom, lounge dining room, gas stove no electricity. Johannesburg Zoo Farm TBA BERMANZI - Machadodorp ―The mountain where the water is‖ with the 2nd largest waterfall in Mpumalanga. Breathtaking mountain valleys with indigenous forest and rock pools. Cultural and historical sites. Thatched huts with spectacular views. Braai and cooking facilities Olifants River Trail – Kruger National Park New Wilderness hike led by a Parks Board ranger. Carry everything (incl. toilet) in and out of the park. Camp at Letaba the night before the start 12km 11km Moderate + 150km 10 M R200 P R180 V R250 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 17.06. 20.06. 22.06. Sunday Day Walks Club Night Day Walks 2 4km 6km 12km Moderate with some steep climbs + 250 km 10 M R180 P R160 V R230 John 082 825 5972 Liza Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 14.07. Backpack 3 42 km Moderate ±700 km 8 M R1350 P R1330 V R1400 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 THE HAPPY WANDERER 14 Date Activity Description and at the end of the hike (cost not incl.) # of Days Total distance Grading Distance to hike # of Places Costs Co-ordinator 13.07 Day Walks Kuthaba – Nylstroom New hike in Waterberg, bushveld, steams, waterfalls, chain ladder, excellent accomm. Family friendly! 2 12kms 6kms Moderate ±250 10 M R210 TBC P R190 V R260 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 15.07. 18.07. 27.07. Sunday Day Walks Club Night Day Walks Klipriversberg TBA Rhenosterpoort – Thabazimbi Rich diversity of terrain, very scenic, lots of water, In the Waterberg. Hike along pools. Excellent facilities. Highly recommended winter hike! Melkrivier – Waterberg New 5 day backpack in the Waterberg. Each day completely different. Bushveld, rivers, rocky outcrops, dry, flat semi-desert, Hippo Trail, bushman paintings and rock pools. Teeming with wildlife and bird life. TBA Phaldingwe 2 12kms 4kms Moderate ±200kms 10 M R180 P R160 V R230 John 082 825 5972 Liza Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 08.08. Backpack 4 65km Moderate to difficult 350kms 8 M R? PR VR Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 15.08. 19.08. Club Night Sunday Day Walks Dinner Dance Liza John 082 825 5972 Margie 082 375 0918 25.08 25 ANNIVERSARY DINNER DANCE Yellow Wood Chapel th THE HAPPY WANDERER 15 Date 31.08 Activity Day Walks Description Wathaba - Machadodorp A new hike in our programme: Walk in the Kurweberg mountains and follow the river through a gorge to a cascading waterfall. Indigenous forest, many river crossings. Stay in log cabins, no electricity. Family friendly! # of Days 2 Total distance 12 km 5 km Grading Moderate Distance to hike ±350 km # of Places 10 Costs M R180 P R 160 V R 230 Co-ordinator Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 07.09. Day Walks Pilanesberg – Game Walk True wilderness trail. Sleep under the stars and walk with a qualified game ranger. Learn about the environment and vegetation. Keep night-watch in an unfenced campsite. All water, food, camping equipment and cutlery/crockery included. Just bring your sleeping bag! Tswaing Crater TBA Royal Natal National Park – Drakensberg (Mahai Camp) 2 Various Moderate ±200kms 6 M R700 P R680 V R750 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 16.09 19.09 20.09. Sunday Day Walks Club Night Day Walks 3 ± 12 km per Moderate to day Difficult ±400 km 10 M R200 P R180 John 082 825 5972 Liza Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 28.09. Backpack Stay this long weekend at one of the most scenic camp sites available in South Africa and choose from many different hikes. You may just want to stay at the camp and enjoy the view! Your are in the Berg – what more needs to be said. Excellent camping facilities. Family friendly! WHALE TRAIL – De Hoop Nature 5 Reserve Most popular hike in S.A. Great V R250 Total 54km Moderate 1200kms 12 M R 1100 P R 1080 Dave/Merle 083 267 3711 THE HAPPY WANDERER 16 Date Activity Description # of Days Total distance Grading Distance to hike # of Places Costs V R 1150 Co-ordinator 05.10. Daywalks accommodation, incredible views, wonderful flora in spring and summer and, an added bonus, at this time of the year—THE WHALES. Don‘t miss this one! You can also have your pack transported at extra cost! THE BROOK – Chrissiemeer 2 Grasslands, plateaus, twin valleys, many fountains and brooks along the Komati River. Game, a large variety of wild flowers. Accomm – Restored farm house, donkey, gas equipment in kitchen. TBA Melville Koppies Sediba – Memel Means ―Fountain Water‖. Good indication of what can be expected on trail. Kloofs, pools, grassland, wetlands and lots of birds. Excellent thatch accomm. Family friendly! Christmas Party at Kuthaba Dome Pools TBA Vergenoeg 2 11km 10.5km Moderate with difficult sections 300kms 10 M R190 P R170 V R240 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 17.10. 21.10. 26.10. Club Night Sunday Day Walks Day Walks Liza John 082 825 5972 Dave/ Merle 083 267 3711 10.5kms 6kms Moderate ±240kms 12 M R170 P R150 V R220 09.11. 18.11. 21.11. 11.12. Year-end Function Sunday Day Walk Club Night Sunday Day Walk Aurora 072 208 1542 John 082 825 5972 Liza John 082 825 5972 THE HAPPY WANDERER 17