Wollangarra
Young People in High Places
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Wollangarra |
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Young People in High Places |
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| WOODCHOP 2010 |
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We are still looking for a new staff member. Click here to find out more. |
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Upcoming Events Garden Party (21-22 August) Please come and join us in getting the garden ready for spring. We are putting a call out to all the green thumbed gardeners. Come and get your hands dirty with us. Call Wollangarra for more information.
Open Day and Bush Dance (2-3 Oct) Put this date aside. Come and have fun with us, catch up with old friends, re-visit the demonstrations of old colonial skills, join in with a fun bush dance.
WATCH THIS SPACE. MORE INFORMATION COMING SOON! |
Stage III induction (2-4 July) Stage III Hike to the Crinoline (4-9 July) Stage III Project Weekend (7-8 August)
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Director and Stage III Diatribe: 25 June 2010: WOODCHOP: What and awesome turnout. It was so great to see everyone for one last hurrah before we head off. There was so much done and we love you all.
BYE BYE JOSIE, SIMON, THOMAS AND FINNY: Thanks to the amazing Wollangarra community for all your support over the last three years. We'll leave the proper farewell for the newsletter, but will certainly being seeing you again around the Wollangarra flat in the future. Much Love
FARWELL BBQ: This was a lovely night at the Wetlands Centre in Heyfield for our annual supporter BBQ and a goodbye to Simmo and Josie, and a hello to Chad and Lisa. The staff put on a great spread and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces there. Thanks for the lovely words.
OPEN WORK WEEK: We got tonnes done on the dugout, which is very exciting. Thanks to the Preshil crew, once again, for their awesome work and MASSIVE guns. These work parties really help us get stuff done that we don't have time for while the craziness of courses are happening, so thanks to all the attendees over the years for their help and efforts.
2 May 2010: STAFF MEMBER/HELPERS NEEDED: Yep! We are still after a new staff member - so if you know anyone who may fit the bill check out the 'employment' link (left). Thank you to all the people who answered the call for help. It has been much appreciated. You are all wonderful people and we look forward to having you back. ALPINE WALK: The intrepid ten young people and their leaders (Ryan and Lisa) from Mittagundi and Wollangarra completed the 11 day journey from Mittagundi to Macalister Springs without a hitch. They have all been busy fundraising so that we can offer the same opportunities that they've had to other young people who wouldn't otherwise be able to afford outdoor programs. Great job guys. Check out the photo of them in next newsletter. UPCOMING EVENTS: Have a look in the box above - there's a bit going on in the next few months. We hope you are able to get involved and support in some way. It would be great to see you at one (or all) of these events. They're fun, you meet great people, eat yummy food and are doing some good work all at the same time! COURSES: Staff have been run off their feet with courses. Many smiley faces have passed through from Holiday Stage I, II and III, Plenty Valley, Koonung and we have The Peninsula School coming up over the next 10 days, which will our (Simon and Josie) last program before we head off at the end of June :( NEWSLETTER: The latest newsletter is up. Meet this years staff - they're a crazy bunch!
15 March 2010: STAFF MEMBER/HELPERS NEEDED: Unfortunately one of our staff, Tim Young, decided that he needed to be back in Bendigo this year, so we are looking for an awesome guy to be a part of our staff team for the rest of the year. Check out the link below for a position description. There is no previous experience necessary. Just a willingness to learn new things, work well in a team and have heaps of fun. Here is the position description and please call if you have any questions or know someone who might be interested. It's an incredible experience! WORK PARTY: We just had our first work party of the year. It was really great to see some old friends and make some new ones. We worked in the dug out, concreting in the footings. The weather certainly turned it on for us with beautiful sunny days and nice cool nights in front of the fire. Not to mention an incredible pizza spread on the Saturday night. STAFF TRAINING: We have done some pretty intensive staff training this year, which has gone really well. Our staff team is great (actually absolutely awesome might cover it a bit better) and it's a pleasure to have them all around doing a super job. We're well into courses, which have been lots of fun so far and we are excited about the rest of the year.
26th Feb 2010: Hi everyone it's Lisa here. Just wanted to let you all know about some exciting stage III stuff happening soon. On the 27th March the annual stage III Trivia night bigger and better than ever! Put it in your diaries and bring your friends and family along to support stage III and win lots of cool prizes. Also the Easter stage III is filling quickly if your keen send your forms up to Woll asap. For more information check the stage III page and join stage III on facebook. Hooray! Looking forward to seeing everyone soon . . . . . .
1st Feb 2010: FRUIT BOTTLING: 'Twas a mammoth success. There were close to 100 people there over the weekend, more than half were young people. It was awesome seeing so many active hands cutting, packing, labeling, carting, boiling and jamming the fruit into 450 bottles of jams, pickles, chutneys, tomatoes and fruit. Not to mention the work done on the dugout, getting heaps of tents and boots waterproofed and ready to go, getting all the bessa bricks over the fox and giving the garden a bit of a makeover. Thanks everyone I'm sure everyone will taste the love as they dig into the strawberry jam or sweet chutney. Click here for some photies STAFF TRAINING: The staff are settling in really well. Check them out on the 'Current Staff' page. Staff training is still underway, but in a week and a half we'll be welcoming our first group...very exciting. CALENDAR, BABYSITTING AND NEWSLETTER: Finally I have all the dates up, so if you're interested give us a call, as they go fast. I've also put up the latest newsletter. Check it out! STAGE II (MOROKA): Amongst some beautiful swims and sunny days this awesome group constructed a boardwalk and footbridges for the Moroka Gap walking track. Most of the group then stayed on for Fruit Bottling - so it was a week long visit. Thanks so much to Penny, Denno and Andrew for your spectacular leading - couldn't have happened without you. STAGE III (Walk into Mittagundi Pioneer Skills): Dan and Mez led 10 intrepid explorers on a hike over the Bogong High Plains and into Mittagundi for their Pioneer Skills weekend. Unfortunately the bad weather meant a change of the original plan, but chatting with some interesting blokes and swimming in rivers on sweltering days is not a bad alternative.
4th Jan 2010: NEW STAFF: The holidays are over for all of us excited Wollangarrians, as we head back tomorrow to meet up with the new staff for 2010. We have five awesome new staff (Anthony, Tim, Brook, Sarah and Mel) and one very cool Stage III facilitator - the amazing Lisa (staff of 2009). Lisa will be doing the Stage III position from Melbourne, part time. Welcome all! NEW DIRECTORS: The next directors have also been appointed - Lisa, Chad and their one year old, Ned will be moving into Wollangarra mid-year 2010. Lisa was a staff member with Dean and Annette in 1995 and Chad is working as a carpenter. They come with a wealth of experience and much enthusiasm...but more on all that later. FRUIT BOTTLING: It is again that wonderful time of year. The fruit on our trees is ripening and our bottled supplies are soon to be replenished. It's a great weekend to finish off the holiday period with some great company and a refreshing dip in the Macalister. So check out the link above and we'll see you there. CALENDAR: We are yet to confirm the 2010 calendar, but hope to have it up in a few weeks time. So if you are keen on babysitting dates or helping out keep an eye out.
10th November 2009: Stage III It is true to say that we are all still buzzing about the Wollangarra Open Day a month on. It came together by the hard work, fun and purpose of so many young people. To think the year isn't over with still so many great things to be part of . . . Crosscut Saw and Wonnangatta Hike: From Monday 7th to Monday 14th Dec this extended hike has been organised by our Alex Scott and is truly an incredible walk from the peaks of Howitt and The Viking to the mysterious depths of the Wonnangatta. If you haven't made it yet this year this is the one worth cramming in your busy diary and busting your way to Wollangarra. More Info on Stage III page. Interested? Let Woll know pronto!! Stage III Induction: From Friday evening 11th to Monday 14th Dec, a great weekend of getting a few extra skills and a warm welcome into the bevy of Stage III with some incredible stage III young people and leaders. More info on the Stage III Page Call Woll A-SAP to confirm your place on it (you can even stay at the flat for the following stage II !!!) New Committee Members: STAGE III NEEDS YOU! A few exciting vacancies have popped up on our committee and this is your chance to be part of the hub of stage III. You don't need any experience just a love for Wollangarra and able to commit for a year. You can be new or old to stage three. More info on applying and what is in store on the Stage III Page
The Stage III Committee has just released the exciting Stage III Calendar for 2010. Start blocking it in . . .
1st November 2009: He has arrived, Finlay Christopher McLachlan, born in the early hours of the morning on Monday 26th of October. He and Josie are well and are spending some time at Josie's parents place. All going well Finlay will have his first fox ride in a weeks time. Thanks to our wonderful staff for keeping Woll running and the helpers (Dan Abikhair, Sarah Douglas, Sarah Bates and Mr Jones) for your support while we were on baby duties.
NEWS FLASH: Our lovely Lisa got engaged to Mr Jones this weekend! Congratulations guys! There must be something in the water after Mikey and Tegs last year. We have a busy 2 months coming up and we will be needing help. There will be work parties, Stage III hike, Stage III induction weekend, Holiday Stage II and jobs to be finished for the year. Follow the appropriate links to get further information. STAGE III: We are looking for an Outdoor leader for the Stage III hike in December. The lucky person gets to take an awesome group of young people over the Cross Cut Saw and off track into the Wonnangatta from the 7th - 14th December. Please call Woll if you are interested. MOVEMBER: Simmo, Conrad and Ant are shaving it all off (facial hair) and growing a Mo this month in support of Prostate Cancer Research and Men's' Depression. You can support the Woll crew in this cause by going to http;//au.movember.com/mospace/224237/ or just registering yourself. LAST WORK PARTY FOR THE YEAR!: There has been a date change for the last work party in the year to the 28-29th of November. We really need as many hands on deck as possible, as we are working on the dugout and it would be ideal to have it done for this fire season. So have a look at the work party link (left) and get up and get involved. - Simmo 22nd October 2009: SPRING NEWSLETTER: The spring newsletter is now up on the newsletter link (left). All the Open Day photos and reports will be in the next one (Summer) so stay posted... 12th October 2009: Wow! What an incredible last few weeks. Let me break it down: HOLIDAY STAGE I & II: In these last school holidays we had over 60 young people on the Wollangarra flat participating in Stage I and II programs and helping out in preparation for Open Day and Bush Dance weekend. In the first week the Stage I's hiked locally, while the Stage IIs did work on the local track at Mt.Useful Creek campsite. For the second week half the Stage IIs went up to the Crinoline to do track work and camped at the rock shelter, where they had a view of many snow capped mountains. The other half continued on the good work from the previous week, based at Burgoynes Hut and fixing up the track towards Banana Flat. Both groups came back a day early to help set up for the Open Day weekend. STAGE III: 12 awsome Stage IIIs came for a hike around the local track, camping one night with the group at Burgoynes. Most of these guys have done a lot of work on that track over their years as Stage IIs and IIIs, so they could finally enjoy the fruits of their labours. They were then joined by another group, who arrived on Thursday to help them set up the cafe and Pizza oven area for Open Day, as well as helping out in lots of other areas of preparation. 20TH ANNIVERSARY DINNER: It was a very special night celebrated by so many who have contributed to Wollangarra over the last twenty years. The Wollangarra council organised the evening which included staff, directors, councilors, supporters from Heyfield and afar, teachers of supporting schools, Stage III committee members and many other contributors to Wollangarra from the last 20 years. We ate a lovely meal, thanks to Maffra catering, and enjoyed pictures, slideshow and speeches. It was a great time for catching up with old friends and reminiscing. Thank you to Tess, Kym, Helen, Riss and Nia for all the hard work you put in before and during the night to make it happen. 20TH ANNUAL WOLLANGARRA OPEN DAY AND BUSH DANCE: It was with the work of many hands (and hearts) that this weekend was able to come together. During the day we had over 300 visitors to the Wollangarra flat. There were demonstrations in pioneer skills from felting of alpaca and sheep wool to Brian's famous bush lathe, Fallsy's splitting skills and Jack's quick wit. The Barraclough brothers, Neil and Ralph, put on a great grafting display as well. There were games galore with everyone stepping forward for a go and a pretty spectacular display by a Roulette aeroplane courtesy of the Sale RAAF base. The incredible Stage IIIs made pizzas for lunch and ran the cafe, keeping everyone's bellies satisfied. While Lisa (and co) in the kitchen prepared dinner. That night we had a great auction with the highlight being a signed (by 40 players of 2009) Geelong Football Club jersey. After the BBQ dinner the Sponaneous Bush Band kicked into action and the lawn of the Wollangarra homestead was transformed into a dance floor. It was such a great weekend. To all who made it happen - thank you. Especially to the staff who hardly stopped for a breath the entire time and to the fantastic young people with their energy and enthusiasm. See you all next year! 13 September 2009: Just a quick update - courses are going strong. There are two Stage II courses these up coming holidays and they're both full. However we are taking applications for December Stage II now. We've had some great Stage I groups through with Newhaven College, Camberwell High School and Melbourne Grammar School. More news...The Rota Loo (composting toilet) is all up, but we're waiting until Open Day for the official opening. We have also received 125 second hand railway sleepers to finish off our dugout. The staff recently took a short road trip to visit Ian and Liv Stapletons place and spend a day in Jack Gilberts incredible shed learning a bit about blacksmithing. Last, but not least...CONGRATULATIONS to Jac Semmler (our Stage III Facilitator) who will be taking on the directorship at Mittagundi for the next 2-3 years. She is currently looking for a co-director, so if you know of someone suitable please contact Tom Hay on 0417 345 181 or email him with any expressions of interest on tom@mittagundi.org.au This also means that we are looking for a Stage III facilitator for 2010. Please click on the employment link (left) to see position description and selection criteria for this exciting opportunity. 1st August 2009: Newsletter Hello All...The Winter Newsletter is up - just click here to see it. If you would like to be on our electronic mailing list and receive the Newsletter over email please shoot us an email at wollangarra@yahoo.com.au (unfortunately we aren't able to enter in to correspondence over that email address, however we can register you onto the mailing list through it). Open Day It's very exciting - Wollangarra's 20th Anniversary celebrations will be held over this years Open Day and Bush Dance on Saturday 3rd October 2009. If you're after more info just click on this link. Woodchop It was a great weekend with over 70 people attending - splitting and moving wood like it was going out of fashion. We got so much great (but very difficult) hard wood split, which means a hot burning stove all winter long. The Wollangarra staff (and many future groups of young people, I'm sure) would like to thank everyone for all the work they put in filling our woodshed, which means lovely roast dinners, bread baked in the wood fired oven, hot showers and a warm living room over these freezing winter nights. The Crossing Road Trip In mid-June the staff took off in their little White Rocket up the east coast to a beachside town called Bermagui! Dean, Annette and Jye from the Crossing welcomed us with open arms. The place looks great - with the main building really coming along. We did some tool repairs, guttering for the main building and rendering of the straw biscuit walls. Two days were also spent doing Koala scat surveys, looking to find evidence of Koala populations in this particular pocket of NSW. Although there was no success while we were there, the rest of the team found some exciting evidence just after we left. Of course a few days at the beach were in order, where we all went for refreshing winter swims. Much thanks to the Crossing for having us and also to Elaine who always keeps us so well fed mid-trip in Sarsfield. The Hop ...was once again a raging success (raging being the key word), as everyone danced, ate, drank and chatted the evening away. Thank you to Tom, Tess, Nick and Ross for all your organising to make the night happen and a special thanks to all the musicians, who really make the night come alive with their tunes. Holiday Stage I and II Over the two weeks of the holidays we ran our usual programs with some particularly adventurous young people. The weather certainly turned it on for these guys, but that didn't stop them. The Stage IIs (with some Stage III help) planted 1500 trees on the property next door. This was a mammoth effort on their part and they sung, joked and laughed all the way through it. A credit to you all. The Holiday Stage Iers were thrown some icy cold evenings, but beautiful days as they explored the local walk - up McMillans Lookout and down into Burgoynes hut, where they chilled (pardon the pun) with the Stage IIIs who were doing some work down there. We can't wait to see you all back! PS For those keen on coming back in September, please get your forms in ASAP, because it is filling up really fast. Open Work Week After a relaxing two weeks holidays the staff returned to Wollangarra refreshed and ready to jump in. We launched straight into an 'Open Work Week', which was an opportunity for anyone to come and spend all or part of the week on the flat to knock a few jobs over. Thanks so much to Sam, Jess, Georgie, Tim, Teddy, Eric, John and the Preshil gang for coming and being a part of it all. There are now walls up and a roof on the Rota-Loo, all the loose wood is cleared from the flat and work was done on the local walk track - just to name a few. 30th July: Stage III - Wood Fired Pizza Oven - The Dome! After a series of work parties, Stage III has reached the exciting point of building the Pizza Oven Dome, this work party will take place on the 29th and 30th of August with a Friday night pick up. See the Stage III page for details or call Wollangarra (03) 5148 0492 4th June: Stage III - Stage III Induction and Burgoynes Hut Two exciting times are approaching for Stage III this July - Stage III Induction at Wollangarra and an extended project at Burgoynes Hut. The project will be open for 2 weeks with young people able to choose the best times for them, whether it is a week or a few days. A great opportunity to come back to Burgoynes. Call Wollangarra for info (03) 5148 0492 25th May: Hey Everyone, check out the link to Woodchop weekend. It's gonna be great - we'll see you there! For more info click here. 6th May: Stage III Busy months continue to roll through for Stage III, a quick news bite! - Trivia night and a Band afternoon in Melbourne have been successful fundraisers with incredible work from Stage III's, the Committee and their supporters - Great practical work has been happening at the Flat on the Pizza Oven and over the other side of the Mountains at Ritchies Hut. - Stage III has undertaken excellent training in the King Valley with Suz Christison and Kate Gilson as well as visiting supporters 'Jimmy' James Findlay and Typo Station. With more to come . . . Stage III is busy this coming work party weekend (evening of the 15th to the 17th of May) with the next stage of their Pizza Oven. There is still a lot of space in the Troopie for keen young people (see the Stage III page for details). The start of July will host a Stage III Induction with some incredible visiting leaders including ex-staff and an extended Mountain Hut project 29 April Sorry for the delay between updates, folks. Life continues on as normal here. The young people keep a'visitin' and the fun times roll on. Our staff for this year are well and truly settled in. There was a bit of a slow start to the year with courses, as we had to move a few due to fire concerns. However they are now in full swing. So far we've had visits from Flinders Community Christian College, The Geelong College, Koonung Secondary College, The Peninsula School, Holiday Meeting the Mountains (Stage I) and Holiday Helping the Mountains (Stage II). In the upcoming weeks we have many more to follow in the lead up to winter. But if you really want the low down - I have just uploaded the most recent newsletter (with a Stage III insert) so check it our here. If you are keen on babysitting. I suggest you get in quick, because weekends are being snapped up fast. Check out the link (left) to see which dates are left. The bet way to reserve your relaxing Wollangarra week/end is to call us on (03) 5148 0492. Alpine Walk What an incredible bunch of young people, not to mention their fearless leaders! It was an honour to see those twelve triumphant faces stride into Mittagundi after eleven days hiking the high country. We had such a wonderful celebration that night, thanks to the Mittagundi crew and helpers! The walkers not only raised thousands of dollars for underprivileged young people to be able to enjoy Wollangarra and Mittagundi, but got so much out of the experience for themselves. Thank you to all for their hard work! And to the wonderful Sonja P (staff 2008) for such a great job. Stage II Twenty-seven amazing young people graced the Wollangarra bunk rooms for this April Stage II. They all headed up to the Wellington High Plains to open up the track up to Spion Kopje with a day trip down to Lake Tali Karng. Check out some photos in the 2009 Autumn section of the photo gallery. Work Parties We've had one hugely successful work party so far this year. Click here to check out what went on and find out dates for more work party weekend dates coming up. Look forward to seeing you there. 3 March
Stage Three is revelling into 2009 with many exciting goings on. Stay tuned to the upcoming news, events and opportunities - see the nifty link on the Stage III logo on the right hand of this page! Things have already started at a cracking pace with the incredible Mastercraftsman Graeme 'Fallsy' Falls coming to work with Stage III's in February. Wood Fired Pizza Oven is under design and foundations are starting THIS weekend - get in contact with Woll ASAP if you need a Troopie seat! Fundraising will be an important part of Stage III's activities, Come and support the Satge III organised Trivia Night and Silent Auction at the end of this month - mobilising their work in the mountains. Call Woll for Bookings! - Jac & SIII 9 February Everything is okay up at Wollangarra - the fires thankfully were not near us. Our hearts go out to those who lost so much. 27 January ...and so it begins again. Another exciting year at Wollangarra!
We have SIX new staff this year - Anthony Davidson, Lisa Strain, Penny Bates, Karen McKenzie, Conrad McKee and Jac Semmler. They have been thrown in the deep end with a massive fruit bottling (more on that later) last weekend. They have been busy getting to know all those finicky little things about the flat, recceing the high country hikes, backing trailers, tractor driving, safe lifting, chook first aid, gardening and the list goes on. We broke it all up in the middle with a trip to Mittagundi Pioneer skills weekend, which was their 30th Anniversary. Still to come is the Wilderness First Aid course (held at Wollangarra this year), 4WD, chainsaw course, swift water rescue, local recce...funnily enough the list goes on. Looking forward to an action packed and fun filled year with this great crew. Unfortunately late last year, Jane Lloyd announced her intended resignation as Stage III facilitator. As a final hurrah she, and an amazing group of Stage IIIer's, have (nearly) finished the Stage III building. It looks incredible. There's fly screens on the windows, cracks filled in, a gorgeous paint job and the wall to the breezeway has been finished. After hearing of Janes decision we decided to base the Stage III facilitator position at Wollangarra, so we are lucky enough to have Jac Semmler who will be part Stage III facilitator and part staff member for 2009. While away on recce with the rest of the the staff, the Stage III's constructed an internal wall in the Stage III building for Jac's bedroom. It was quite a welcome home for Jac, who started off in there with nothing but a mattress. Over the last 9 months Jane really got things moving in Stage III with many successful trips and lots of hard work. I'm sure we'll still see her around, but thanks so much for all you did, Jane. To the Stage III's thank you all for your hard work and your flexibility. Things have happened quickly for everyone, but your understanding and assistance now and in the future is greatly appreciated.
Last December we had so many Stage II's that we decided to split the group and run one in January as well. In the week leading up to fruit bottling 16 enthusiastic young people came up to Wollangarra and went into the Wellington High Plains to do excellent work in the mountains. They did a lot of work around Tali Karng, cleaning up rubbish, old campsites and sign posting various areas. Dan (staff '08) Will (staff '05) and Nia (staff '03) led this intrepid bunch, where they had a late night encounter with some wild mountain animals - or maybe just a surprise visit from the 2009 staff. A heap of these Stage II's stayed on after the course and jumped straight into fruit bottling, where they were joined by 15 other young people for the weekend, which leads me to...
What a weekend! Over ninety people showed up to Wollangarra over the Australia Day weekend, boxes of fruit in hand and ready for action. The staff had managed to bottle 60 bottles of apricots off our tree the week before, so they had a bit more of an idea about this massive undertaking. Over one weekend (most of which happened inside of one day) we:
It was such a great weekend and it's true that many hands do make light work. It was sad to have missed Elaine (her first fruit bottling missed in 15 years), but we muddled through. Thanks Patricia Reeves and Jac Semmler for your wonderful preserving knowledge. I have also just posted the most recent Newletter, new Stage I & II dates, work party dates and babysitting dates. So check them out on those relevant links. WELL I think that's about it... for the last 3 weeks anyway. As I said - it's going to be an action packed year. See you up here some time. 19 December Here we are at the end of another year. The staff have just got back from their final Stage II and last hike of the year. The group camped up at Macalister Springs near Mt.Howitt for 3 nights where they cleared drains on the walking track, worked on the fence at the "loo with a view", made some new steps and fixed up some tracks around the area. Lightening, hail and gale force winds couldn't keep the smiles from everyone's faces and they returned Thursday afternoon tired and hungry. The staff received a royal send off from the Stage III's, who stayed back at Woll keeping the home fires burning, with a real song and dance on their return from up top. That night was a spectacular feast put together by Simon, Tina, Fi, Lou, Jesse, Eric, Nicola, Georgia and Tish and as thank yous were said around the table emotions were running high. Thanks guys for a great week and we'll see you back here soon. We have also chosen our Alpine walkers for next year. Congratulations Nicola Woodward, Tish Gort, Alex Duncan, Geordie Andrew-Gooch and Tessa Woods. Sonja Patterson will be leading the way with an ex-staff from Mittagundi. They will be walking from Macalister Springs to Mittugundi (about 150km) over some of Victorias highest peaks. All in an effort to raise money for young people to come to Wollangarra. If you would like to sponsor one of these amazing young people please click on the following link. Alpine Walk Back on the flat things are wrapping up, jobs finished off and staff rooms packed up. Sonny, Dan, Tegs, Mikey and Lucy, what can I say? It's been a wonderful year with lots of highs, some lows and many learnings. We wish you all the best for your onward journey and hope that your traveling feet take you back here again. Love Josie, Simmo and Thomo. Ken Medew It is with great sadness that I share this with the Wollangarra community. On Sunday morning we lost a very important and much loved Wollangarra supporter. Ken Medew always gave so much of himself to everyone he met and had a deep love of Wollangarra and the people involved with it. We love you, Ken Medew and will all miss you very much.
5 November 2008 Hello to all those Stage II's out there. The December Stage II dates have changed to the 14 - 19 December. If this is a problem and you have already applied please give us a call...and more apologies (I'm getting this internet thing slowly worked out)..I've put the wrong price on the Stage II form. It's actually $140 (I have changed it now. We have had so many applications for the December Stage II that we have decided to run another Stage II in January. The January dates are 19th - 23rd Jan . If you think you might like to do this one instead please give us a call and let us know. We have put it just before FRUIT BOTTLING, so you can stick around for the weekend if you like. Also we are going to have a Stage III/ Mountain Work Parties induction weekend just before the December Stage II (Fri - Sun). If you are a Stage III, or potential Stage III, please come along and have a great weekend talking about Stage III, doing some practical stuff around Woll for a few days and soaking in the general ambience. Otherwise life continues on as normal. We are eating nearly whole meals from the veggie garden, there is more swimming in the river (as opposed to just running in, screaming and running out again) and doing some walks back in the high country now the snow has melted. I have put up the most recent newsletter (click here) and updated the calendar with next years dates. So check them out and get them in your diary! Click Here. It's going to be a big year. Looking forward to seeing you up here soon. - Josie 11 October 2008 These last few weeks have been immense for the staff, young people and visitors to Wollangarra, which I'll get on to shortly. Now it's all over, however, Simon and I are turning our attentions to 2009. We have some exciting new schools coming on board and are looking for FIVE incredible, committed, enthusiastic, hard working, fun, skilled people (we don't ask for much) to share the year here at Wollangarra with Simon, Thomas and myself. If you think that person might be you (or someone you know) please turn your gaze to the right and follow the links to find our more about being a staff member at Wollangarra. Now to the last month - Phew! I might have to break it down... Holiday Stage I The Holiday Stage I programs are always special, because of the overwhelming enthusiasm from the young people who are a part of them...and this time was certainly no different! It was the biggest Holiday Stage One group we've had all year, but we hiked and camped as one group getting to know each other really well. We had a few second time Stage I'ers and also Sarah Mair, who lived at Wollangarra when her parents Anthony and Melissa were directors (8-10 years ago). We all hiked into Burgoynes, as well as climbed up the spur to the top of McMillans Lookout. The weather was certainly on our side, which meant a cool dip in the river after a long walk. We hope to see you guys back in December. Holiday Stage II We just couldn't say no! The applications kept rolling in and we ended up with 34 young people on this last Holiday Stage II, the biggest that we know of. Thank you very much to Conrad McKee and Martha Dertwiler who helped out on this massive program. The group split into three with group one building a small toilet at Burgoynes Hut, another fixing up the Tussocky track and another finishing off the boardwalk up at Moroka Gorge - all the while alternating through Wollangarra to help prepare for the Open Day weekend. It is hard for me to put into words what this week meant to the staff and young people who were a part of it. It was certainly a very emotional time for everyone, as strong bonds were formed and many new friendships made. These guys worked and played with all their hearts giving so much over six days. December Stage II is nearly full so if you are interested please send forms in and we will do what we can. Thank you to everyone on that September Stage II '08 you are an incredible bunch of people and we all (the staff) feel blessed to have spent that time with you. Open Day and Bush Dance We had 25 Stage II's stay over for the Open Day and Bush Dance weekend (as well as another 5-10 come up during). It was craziness as we frantically prepared for Wollangarra's biggest weekend of the year. However, even the drizzle couldn’t keep away the 250+ people who poured in over the flying fox during the course of the day. It was exciting to see such a variety of Wollangarra supporters come from far and wide to be a part of the weekend. There were many families of young people, local Heyfield supporters, Wollangarra council members, friends and family of staff, Stage III's to nme but a few. Everyone enjoyed the demonstrations - felting and spinning with Margaret Beckett, Brian Beasley with his hand made bush lathe as well as Jack Gilbert and Graham Fall demonstrating their skill with the axe and draw horse. The activities such as the porridge eating contest and the Tug-o-War (above) provided excitement for young and old alike with the gracious voice of Aleks Svasas (MC for the day) booming across the flat. Later that night after a delicious BBQ dinner we all Doe-see-Doed and ‘Stripped the Willow’ thanks to the great tunes of the Spontaneous Bush Band. It is always such a wonderful thing having people from all walks of life come together and enjoy themselves at Wollangarra, chatting with old friends and making new ones as the weekend rolls by. Next year is Wollangarra's 20 year Anniversary, so we hope you can make it up and enjoy this special place as well, because it’s going to be a great celebration! - Josie 19 August 2008 Well, The Hop was a raging success. Thanks to all those to helped organise it, especially Tom Hay and Larissa Robbins. Thanks to all those amazing musicians who kept our feet jumping to the wee hours. Thanks to all the people who helped on the door and behind the bar and of course a big thank you to all those people who came and enjoyed the night, while supporting Mittagundi and Wollangarra. News around the flat for the past couple of months has been pretty much business as usual. We have been running some great courses, including a few back to back Peninsula School groups, Newhaven College, Holiday Stage One and a Rocking Stage Two. These guys fixed up various tracks around Burgoynes Hut so that we can take groups hiking on quality made paths during winter. It was a big one, but as usual - a fantastic job done with such a warm and energetic group of young people. We have already received heaps of forms for September Stage Two, so if you're keen get your forms in soon. Stage III Mountain Work Parties is up and running. Everyone is invited along. You don't have to have ever been to Wollangarra before. You could be 13 years old or you could be 53 years old. We want to get everyone involved in the exciting projects we have on offer. If you would like to get up into the mountains and give back to a place that gives you so much pleasure then have a look at the new Mountain Work Parties Page. Click Here PS I have just got the most recent Newsletter up - just follow this link. 17 June 2008 DON'T FORGET ABOUT THE HOP! It's on the 28 June at Collingwood Children's Farm. Come and have a great time with the Wollangarra and Mittagundi supporters in Melbourne as we boogie on down to the tunes of various bands. Come and stand by the open fire and have a beer as we celebrate another wonderful winter. Over the Queens Birthday weekend 50 odd people came up to Wollangarra for our annual Woodchop weekend. There was a lot of wood moved and split. It was a mammoth job, but we think we have enough to last us nearly two years! The woodshed is full and we have some trendy "beehive stack" additions around the back. We ate wonderfully, as usual and everyone went home tired, but happy. To all who attended - thank you for everything you put in. We shall cook many more roasts and warm our cold hands by the fire this year, because of your help! 12 May 2008
29 April 2008 I have also, finally, got the last two newsletters up. Click here to have a look! 23 April 2008 Unfortunately, due to ever increasing running costs, we have had to lift the price of our programs. Please go to the 'Courses' link to view new prices for holiday and school programs. Now onto more important news...
The Alpine Walk certainly finished with a bang - quite literally. The walkers got out of the mountains just in time, as they came down on the day of the big winds, even after being hammered with every kind of weather over the previous 10 days (especially every type of cold there is). The delicious roast (half Mittagundi pork and half Wollangarra lamb) on their return was a great celebration with parents, grand parents, sisters and friends in attendance. Thank you Gaz and Mez (the two leaders), who got everyone in safe and sound from an epic adventure through the mountains. The Alpine Walkers themselves are some pretty amazing people, not only committing themselves to this massive physical undertaking, they also raise money to sponsor all those young people who wouldn't otherwise be able to come to Wollangarra. Thank you guys! NB if you would like to sponsor one of these walkers or would like to know more, there is still time. Just go to the Alpine Walk link or click here.
That same week, the fantabulous Stage IIers were out in the mountains and did a great jobon McMillans Walking Track, just near the Crinoline, with the help an guidance of some Ben Cruchan Walking Club members. Unfortunately the group nearly got blown away on the Wednesday, so they came in and bunked down in the Outdoor Kitchen for the night. They showed great maturity in how well they dealt with an ever-changing situation...and always with a smile on their faces.
The week before we had a group of Stage IIIs up, who got some of those "we'll never get around to it" jobs about the flat. Thanks Hamish Macrae, Grace, Tom and Tessa Woods.
Simon, Thomas and I are over at Tussocky!!! (sorry Ross, it really deserved extra exclamation marks). Before our arrival, last year Ross and the gang did a lot of work putting in a telephone line, fixing up the water tank and many other little things ensuring that Tussocky would be ready when we got there. Unfortunately the floods took care of all of that (washing the telephone line away etc.) and we, mainly due to access, were not able to move in...until now. Thank you so much to Loz, Tina, Lize, George, Sam, Rod, Pete, Patricia and of course Dan, Son, Lucy, Tegan and Michael. It has already made the biggest difference. - Josie 9 April 2008 Just a reminder for the upcoming Weekend Work Party on the 19-20 April! Grab your friends and family and come on up. We are working on the Tussocky track, as we haven't got over to that side of the river since the floods. Looking forward to seeing you there. Click here for more details. 20 March We have restructured the website a little bit. As you can see each stage has it's own page. As well there is a bit more info for volunteers, so if you're keen please check it out! Our Alpine Walkers are all heading up to Mittagundi in a few days - very exciting. Unfortunately due to an illness in the family, Darcy has had to pull out. So Alex, Bonnie, Georgia and Nick have all been busy fundraising like mad and preparing for this massive undertaking. If you would like to sponsor them or learn a bit more about the Alpine Walk please click on the link on the left hand side. We had a fantastic response to the Stage III facilitator position which is great, but certainly made choosing all the more difficult. So we look forward to introducing the new Facilitator shortly. Keep your eyes pinned to the site... Speaking of Stage III - they have finished the chimney of Guys Hut. I haven't seen it myself, but am sure it looks great. There were 11 participants on the last trip and they put in an almighty effort and finished it off inside of a day. Well done guys! Have a great Easter break! - Josie 27 February I finally have photos up of the new staff - spunky lot that they are. I will admit, they didn't know these snap shots would end up on the internet, but it's all I have for the moment. All is well here - trotting along nicely. Other news is that we have an email address, this way we can send out occasional info on Wollangarra events and other exciting stuff. If you would like to receive these mail outs please send your email address to wollangarra@yahoo.com.au. However in true Wollangarra tradition the address does not accept mail transmissions. Any mail is happily received the old fashioned way at Wollangarra, Licola, Vic, 3858 or give us a call. Hope all is well - Josie 5 February
That's about it from us. Hope to see you up at Woll soon. - Josie 21 January We have certainly hit the ground running in 2008! Staff: Wollangarra has been blessed with five amazing staff for this year. I'm sorry the newsletter has taken so long to get out and now that it is, I need to make that amendment. Sonja Patterson, Daniel Abikhair, Lucy Vardy, Tegan Stevens and Michael Gibbs will call Wollangarra home for the next year, each bringing with them their unique skills and personalities. They are really excited to meet you all at this years fruit bottling. Fruit Bottling: is a great excuse to spend a beautiful summers weekend up at Woll, while chatting and chopping. This Australia Day weekend we will be making jams and preserving fruit for the rest of the year. Come up am meet the new staff and have a chopping good time. Please click here if you would like more details. Tamboritha Rd: is open! Yippee. Wollangarra uses Tamboritha rd to access the high country. Although since the fires and then the floods, the road has been closed for nearly a year. We have just completed our staff hike up there and although parts have been affected, it's as majestic as ever (especially the Bryces Gorge waterfalls, which were full with all the rain of the previous few days). This means we should be able to run our usual Stage One programs up there this year. Stage III Facilitator: This is a very exciting time at Wollangarra for Stage III. We are looking for someone with the right skills and experience to reinvigorate our Stage III program. The applicant, to be based away from Wollangarra, will be responsible for:
The position requires an average of 100 days per annum by either one person, or job shared by two. The tenure is for two years and the remuneration is relevant to Melbourne living. This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to be involved with Wollangarra, but can’t commit to living there. For a full position description please click here. Stage III: is up and running, once more. There is an upcoming trip to fix up the chimney of Guys Hut before fruit bottling. We hope you've had a great summer so far and hope to see you up this way some time soon. - Josie 14 December What a great Open Day and Bush Dance! There was the Woll-athon, sack race, felting, bush tool demos, sheep to shawl, yummy lunch and lots of relaxing in the cafe or down by the swimming hole. That evening the Spontaneous Bush Band made the night with some great dances, while everyone kicked their heels up. Thanks to everyone who came along and enjoyed the day, especially to all those who lent a hand - we couldn't have done it without you. We have finished up our Stage I programs for the year. We have one more Stage II and we are finally heading back out into those spectacular mountains to Moroka Gorge. There is heaps of good work to be done. We have confirmed all the holiday Stage I and II dates for next year, so check out the calendar and get your forms in. As we wrap up the end of the year, it is with a tear in our eye that we bid farewell to the staff of 2007 - Tess, Tessa, Gaz, Jo and Tina you guys made Wollangarra a truly inspiring place for so many young people this year and even after fires and floods, you still did it with a smile on your face. Thank you. I have also finally got the Spring Newsletter 2007 uploaded so check it out, the Summer one will follow shortly. A wonderful Christmas to all and a very Happy New Year. See you in 2008 - Josie 8 November Over the weekend there was 167mm of rain. For the big flood, earlier on in the year, there was 199mm. This time there was very little damage done as the river peaked at a much lower level. Cheynes bridge (or the temporary, low-lying bridge) had the entry ramps washed away. Vic Roads are looking at getting the bridge passable by early next week. Everyone and everything are present and accounted for except our "make-shift" pontoon. Neville put a scare through the camp when he went missing for over 24hours during the peak of the flood. He was later located safe and sound and very comfortable at the Licola store. This weekend's work party is still going ahead. If you are coming out just park at Cheynes ridge and walk in via the Telephone Track. Give us a call f you don't know where to go. - Simon 22 October Well Stage II was a massive success, so much that December is filling up fast, so get your forms in to guarantee a space. The local track they worked on early Oct looks awesome, with an archway to boot.
The sheep are going for the wool-less summer look, thanks to Ian and Richard, who came up and gave them a haircut.
WE GOT THE FOX UP!!...Well nearly. We just need to make a few minor adjustments, like attaching the running rope. At least the fox trolley is once again on it running gear. It's just chomping at the bit ready for some bums to sit on it and come flying across the Macalister. There are only two more work party weekends, so get up and see what all the fuss is about. The last one was history in the making, as we mixed enough cement to fill a fox anchor hole. See the work party site for some photos. That's enough from me. Don't forget about Open Day 8th December! See you there. - Josie 4 October While most are enjoying their school holidays at home a few intrepid young people make their way up to Wollangarra to be part of our holiday programs. We had a fantastic stage one, which spent two nights out and one day going over McMillans. There was a lot more time for a bit of footy, some extra work and of course just enjoying the beautiful spring days in the sun (including cricket bat making below with Seb and Andy).
The second week has seen a group of young people return for Stage II. They are actually out fixing up the local walk, which washed away, as I write this. So many others will benefit from the work they are now doing. Thanks guys. - Josie 19 September So much has gone on over the last month, so here's the big ones:
I think that's the gist of it, but there are many more exciting projects in the pipelines. We'd love to see you up at Wollangarra on one of our work party weekends or for the Open Day and Bush Dance. If you are interested in a bit more info, the latest Newsletter has just been posted too. Okay, I think that's about enough from me... - Josie 13 August We have just had our first weekend work party. Robyn and Will Ford put in a stirling effort and we were able to get some big jobs done. However we are putting out a big call for HELP in hope that we will have lots more people for the next (25-26 August) one. We (staff and directors) took some time out from the chaos to go and visit Dean and Annette Turner at the Crossing a week ago. It was a great trip, very inspiring and invigorating. Thanks for having us, guys.
Cheynes Bridge is open to anyone after 6pm weekdays and all weekend long. So come up and visit. I especially recommend August 25-26. See you then. - Josie 1 August It's a new month, the sun is shining and the smell of winter is in the air. We have finally decided on weekend work party dates (click on the link for details). So come one, come all, bring a friend, bring a car load of people. We look forward to seeing you up there, as there are many adventures to be had. - Josie 27 July Staff are due back from their mid-year break this weekend and Josie, Thomas and I have settled into the homestead. We are still hoping to run courses and are presently finalizing a program that will suit the current situation at Wollangarra and its surrounds. We will contact participants as we know more. We know you are all "chomping at the bit" to come out and lend a hand so we are also organising regular weekend work parties over the next few months. Details will be posted soon so keep a close eye on this site. - Simon 15 July Today is Ross' last day at Wollangarra. Thank you for all your hard work (and play) here. You will be missed by so many people who have had the pleasure of your company over the last two years. The Stage II and III work party was a massive success. Thank you to those who came up and dug through the silt, cut through the debris and made a really stable garden fence (that baby's not going anywhere). To all the Stage IIer's who were supposed to come up on course, but never got a chance; we are refunding your course fees. Unfortunately everything is taking a little longer than usual, so your patience is greatly appreciated. And last, but certainly not least - we have a satellite phone! It even receives calls most of the time (normal call costs). The number is the same as always; (03) 51480492 - Josie 6 July [posted by T Phil, as dictacted by Josie] There will be a work party from Monday 9 July to Thursday 12 July for the stage 2 & 3 only. Click on the flood information link to the right for details. A low road to Cheynes Bridge for 4WD vehicles only is expected to be completed by Sunday 8 July. The phone should be back in action after 10 July by way of a solar powered satellite phone from Telstra.
4 July Well here we are (Josie, Simon and Thomas)... and what a time! I suppose by now you've all seen the photos. The Hop was a success, thanks to all involved! I will write more soon...
30 June The flood of 27 June 2007 will be difficult to forget for those that were there to experience it: Jo, Gareth, Tess, Tessa, Will, Hamish, Paddy, Ben, Bec, Robin and Ross. And the dogs: Billy, Gemma and Neville. At it's height the Macalister River was flowing right over the flat and around the homestead, peaking at 10pm.
Standing by the river was like being next to an angry ocean, with waves you could surf. It is also very difficult to go to sleep with the sound of waves lapping against the walls of your home. And it was more nerve wracking than the fires.
I will let the pictures tell the story. Click here.
28 June 2008 [posted by T Phil, as dictacted by Ross] Everyone at Wollangarra is alive and well despite a record flood. The water, at its highest, was 6 inches below the floorboards at the homestead. Both flying foxes have been destroyed, leaving no way in or out, but this will change shortly when the river level drops. There is plenty of food and water, and spirits are high. Update: Cheynes Bridge has washed away. All courses cancelled until further notice. Staff and visitors should be able to walk out in the next couple of days. For further information contact Helen Collins on 0438 435 121. 21 June 2007 It's flood time again. The river rose incredibly on the 19 June, only a bit shy of the level in 1990 that washed Ian's car away. We've been busy trying to save all the wood that was chopped - we got a lot of it, but some of it ended up in Lake Glenmaggie. Sorry, but we tried. At one stage we were chest deep and on the verge of hypothermia - we then called it quits. Check out the Photo Gallery for more, or the link on the right.
Also, details of the Stage 3 Induction Weekend are now up. Check it out if you are interested.
14 June 2007 Rainy, wet and cold here at Woll, but The Hop will be warm, see you all there!
4 June 2007 Winter is here, and quite a frost this morning. It is getting chilly, and the river is pumping. Our last school group for the semester is arriving today, and then it is woodchop this weekend! We have heaps of jobs to do, so bring a few friends to help us out. See the link on the right.
Also, we have changed the start date of the next Stage 2 by one day. See the calendar. And if you are coming, then hang around for the Stage 3 Induction weekend. More details soon.
7 May 2007 It's lamb central here at the moment, they're dropping everywhere. We had to pull one out last night - lucky we don't wear watches around here.
In other news, there is a full calendar for the rest of the year on the site, so check that out for upcoming events. One of those is the Stage 3 induction weekend, which is aimed at you Stage 2 folk. It will be a great weekend where we'll show you how to use old tools, teach navigation and how to plan a hike on your own, and lots of other fun stuff. Then you can hang around for the Stage 3 course the next week.
And the new directors for Wollangarra? Josie and Simon! There were some very high calibre candidates, but Josie and Simon will be taking over the reigns in July.
22 April 2007 Check out the new Photo Gallery. The other one was pretty sad and tired, but the new version is a bottler.
18 April 2007 Thanks to all those that helped on the work parties over the last few weeks, including the Stage 2s. We were able to get a lot done. Thanks heaps. Courses start rolling in now as we approach the end of the first semester. Time flies...
The Alpine Walkers arrived back at Mittagundi on Sunday, and it all went without a hitch. It was still long and tiring, so you should sponsor one of them.
Sadly, Ted Schaeche passed away last Sunday night. Ted was dearly loved by the Wollangarra community, and our thoughts are with Elaine. The funeral is at St Johns Church, Service St, Bairnsdale, at 3pm on Friday 20 April. We will miss you, Ted.
And Ken Medew has broken his hip! This is a real blow to such a wonderful, gentle man. He should be back in a hospital in this part of town soon, and we all wish him the best in his recovery.
8 March 2007 We have decided to run another Work Party for the local walk, at Easter. Click here for more details.
In other news, I had my first swim since the floods yesterday. Visibility has increased from 1mm to about 4 inches. Feels like swimming in Evian!
1 March 2007 Courses have started, kind of. We've had one, had to cancel one, but things are looking good from here on in. Fire, then flood, then landslindes... Woll is a bit different these days, but it's just a matter of rolling with the punches. The new hike location is the Mitchell River, which is a beautiful area.
19 February 2007 Courses start today. Yippee! We'll be pretty busy from here on in. Things have been quite interesting - first fires, then floods. Great. Sorry to all those fans of the swimming hole - it's gone now. Have to find a new spot.
There is a supporters dinner on 17 March. Meet at the fox for a 6:30 shuttle service. This coincides with a work party over that weekend to restore the local walk tracks. They have been destroyed by the fire, trees and then landslides. So BYO chainsaw or just elbow grease. Everyone welcome.
In other news, I have decided to leave Woll in July. It was a very tough decision, and one that I had a lot of trouble making. But by then, it will be time to hand the reigns over to someone else.
11 January The new staff are here, the fires are out, and we are off to Mittagundi for Pioneer Skills this weekend. The year is going well so far, and we look forward to seeing you at Fruit Bottling. Click here for details.
19 December The phone is back on, which is both a blessing and a curse. Amazing how much it interrupts your day. For those that were fans of the big manna gum down by the water hole, Terry Higgins sorted it out. The biggest tree he has felled in 24 years.
We back burned around the Tussocky fox platform, and apart from a few singed eyebrows everything went well. The fire is currently near that platform, and slowly making its way towards Tussocky, which is pretty safe from the back burn the other day.
The staff farewell has been postponed until next year.
17 December A quiet day on the flat. We worked pretty hard yesterday, though. Ralph Barraclough, Ross Davis, Aleks and I backburned around Tussocky. Ralph was amazing to work with - so careful and deliberate, although looking at his Land Rover you wouldn't think so. It gives us much greater peace of mind to know that Tussocky is that much safer.
Tomorrow is supposed to be a bit of risk. With fires still in every hill around the flat, you can imagine that we can't relax too much. Although we have now stopped doing shifts through the night to watch the flat.
On the website, there are more photos up of the aftermath, more video, and I've fixed up the crook video. Sorry to eat into your broadband quota, Helen.
Additionally, there are new contact details on the "Contact" page while the phone is out.
15 December Thanks to Trippin' Phil for the last posting. Well, all is well. Didn't lose a single building. The flat is mostly burnt out, but a bit of grass left for the sheep. All the stock survived, even Henny Penny the deranged chicken who wouldn't go back in the pen.
The danger is not over yet, as Burgoynes Hill is still on fire, and the north side is as yet unburnt. Tussocky is still going strong, but is threatened by a fire from coming down the gorge. The fire is not out, and we are still waiting for it all to be over.
A big thanks to Ross Davis, Chris Balmford and Mike Bishop for coming to help Nick, Billy and I defend the place. 9pm, 14 December Tonight I am posting this message on Ross' behalf from a hotel in Sydney. Ross called me via radiophone, sounding exhausted, but OK. He realises a lot of us are anxious for news, so he asked me to write the following message here:
- posted by Trippin' Phil 13 December All day the sound of trees falling from up on the hill after last night's back burn. Not the place to go for a stroll.
Have added the map from the CFA website taken at 0330 today. Click here.
However, Thursday will be a big day for us, even with the back burn. Mt Terrible and Mt Ligar may make a move with the northerlies predicted.
12 December Not every day that you put a drip torch to your own backyard and light up an entire mountain.
11 December Firecrews everywhere. It seems that every man and his dog wants to defend Woll. Slip-on units mainly, from DSE and CFA.
Saw the first flames last night - pretty interesting watching a tree explode, with the flames maybe 4 times higher than the tree.
Currently waiting for an ember attack, which I think is unlikely at this stage.
7 December It's a different sort of Wollangarra at the moment. There are numerous bushfires in the area, and we are all working hard to improve Woll's chances of surviving it, if it does come our way.
As you can imagine, not a good time for courses. So, we have cancelled all courses for the rest of the year. That includes the Stage 2 and 3 trips that were planned.
I will try to keep this section updated regularly, so check back soon to see how it is all going.
7 November 2006 We woke this morning to a nice bit of rain to help the grass grow. More lambs still, and more young people coming, in the final string of courses for the year.
And we are still looking for STAFF for 2007! If you know of anyone, let us know. See the Staff section for details.
The Folk Rhythm and Life festival is on - December 1, 2 & 3. If you want a free ticket, then just work 6 hours on the Woll hamburger stall. Contact us for details. |
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If you enjoy coming up to Wollangarra and want a bit of a holiday then have
a look at the calendar for possible babysitting dates. We (the staff) leave
the flat at various times throughout the year for holidays, staff training
and weekends off etc and we need someone here to keep an eye on things and
lock the chooks up. There is usually little responsibility and you are
welcome to bring up a couple of friends for the week/weekend. It is better
if you have been to Wollangarra before, but you don't need to know it overly
well. Please have a look at our calendar for dates that might suit and give
us a call.
We have our last work party weekend for the year coming up 24-25 May. Come
and be a part of all the work party fun. If you don't know much about
Wollangarra and want to find out more this is great way to meet some new
people and a enjoy simple, healthy and satisfying weekend.
The
annual wood chop weekend is nearly upon us. This is a major Wollangarra
event, so get a group together and come on up for Queens Birthday weekend
for a chopping good time (sorry, I think I used that one for Fruit Bottling,
too). 
The
staff have all just returned from their Wilderness First Aid course. So rest
assured everyone, you are in very safe hands when coming up here (Michael is
even a registered nurse). The staff are spending the next few weeks getting
their Swift Water Rescue and 4WD qualifications before heading out bush with
Drouin Secondary College at the end of Feb. 
The
Stage IIIers dismantled the chimney on Guys Hut and have nearly finished
building the new one. They also had to replace a couple of rotting out
support poles near the entrance. We'll get some photos up once their done.
Work
Party Weekends are back this year. We have a few upcoming dates this first
six months. Wollangarra is looking great, but there are still lots of
exciting projects to get our teeth into. Check out the page to get
