Tony Bishop

UNSW Press, 344pp, pb, $37.95

Since the issue of the first edition, and my initial review of the late Tony Bishop's remarkable reference book, I have had the opportunity to use it extensively, and it has proved an extremely useful tool in the identification of terrestrial orchids. The second edition has been taxonomically updated by orchid expert John Riley, and new genus descriptions have been done by David Banks, editor of the Orcadian and the Australian Orchid Review.

This edition contains a description, complete with a photograph, of every known orchid species in South East Australia (with the exception of new species named since publication). It also contains an easy-to-use key for identification. During the four years between the two editions, there have been a number of species described and named which have been covered in this edition.

This book is highly recommended as a tool for conservationists and those who think they knew a thing or two about native flora. It has already helped save hundreds of hectares of valuable bushland in Wyong Shire, and if used efficiently has the capacity to help save more.

Jean Edgecombe

Pub by Jean Edgecombe, 168 pp, pb, $24.95

Jean Edgecombe has written an interesting and lively book that will appeal to a variety of readers. It will certainly help the intending tourist with information on shopping, accommodation, tours, restaurants and how to get there.

The history of the three separate settlements and the economic difficulties due to the island’s distance from the mainland are well described. Along with descriptions of Norfolk Island today, it will be of interest to the historian, the botanist as well as the geologist since Ms Edgecombe has covered each subject in good detail.

The Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service appointed a Conservator in 1979. The Norfolk Island NP and Norfolk Island Botanic Garden were dedicated in 1986. The map of the national parks shows walking tracks and viewpoints and would be a useful guide. There are clear maps of other areas as well as attractive photographs through the book.

A very readable book about an interesting island.

Jeanette Blomfield (ed)

pb, $23.95

Staunch conservationist and NPA member, Jeanette Blomfield, has produced this book. It describes various walks which link up to form a continuous walking route between Patonga and Newcastle. Readers are given a brief historical background to the evolution of the walks, giving an insight into the hard-fought efforts of numerous conservation groups. The book is dedicated to Marie Byles, the main campaigner behind the idea to conserve the scenic coastline.

The total distance of the Hawkesbury to Hunter Walks is 150 km. Readers will find details of how to get to the start of each walk, and detailed maps of the routes. Also included is information on accommodation. This book is a must for any keen bushwalker who wants to appreciate the beauty of the NSW coastline.

NSW NPWS

This is a free guide to the most popular parks and reserves in NSW, with a short general description for each (it covers over 190, out of around 520 in NSW). There are details for each reserve based on a symbol system, such as for camping facilities and types of recreation.

This booklet would be handy as a starting point for planning a trip. You can get hold of a copy from NPWS by ringing 1300 361 967. The guide is free and there is no postage charge.